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Freezer meals | How to make a week ahead meal prep
Frozen food is bad for you! What? Yes, I am telling the truth. Fat, taste enhancers and preservative-loaded frozen food are bad for you. Not the home-cooked frozen meals, though. This blog contains some of my frozen food/freezer recipes and meal prep ideas to ease your daily routine if you like to buy groceries and stock up for your week.
Meals that freeze well are handy time savers for the busy…
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Cheesy Black Bean, Vegetable, and Egg Burritos: For Freezer / 30 servings
Ingredients:
30 large wheat tortillas
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 bell peppers, diced (any color)
2 onions, diced
6 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups cooked black beans (or 4 cans, drained and rinsed)
2 cans of sweet corn
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
24 large eggs, beaten
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: salsa, avocado slices, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the cooked black beans to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Push the vegetable and black bean mixture to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty side. Scramble the eggs until cooked through, then mix them with the vegetable and black bean mixture.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and evenly distributed throughout the filling mixture.
Place a portion of the filling onto each wheat tortilla, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly to form burritos.
If freezing, wrap each burrito individually in aluminum foil and store in the freezer.
To reheat, unwrap the foil from the frozen burrito and microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Serve the burritos with optional toppings like salsa, avocado slices, sour cream, and cilantro.
Unique Pineapple Salsa:
Ingredients:
2 cups diced pineapple
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Juice of 2 limes
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a medium bowl, combine the diced pineapple, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño pepper, and chopped fresh cilantro.
Squeeze the juice of 2 limes over the salsa and toss to combine.
Season the salsa with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
Cover and refrigerate the salsa for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Serve the pineapple salsa alongside the Cheesy Black Bean, Vegetable, and Egg Burritos for a refreshing and flavorful pairing.
Here's a grocery list with estimated prices for each ingredient based on typical US prices:
Large Wheat Tortillas:
Price: $3.00 for a pack of 10 tortillas
Quantity Needed: 3 packs
Total Cost: $9.00
Olive Oil:
Price: $6.00 for a 16 oz bottle
Quantity Needed: 1 bottle
Total Cost: $6.00
Bell Peppers:
Price: $1.00 each (average)
Quantity Needed: 3
Total Cost: $3.00
Onions:
Price: $0.50 each (average)
Quantity Needed: 2
Total Cost: $1.00
Garlic:
Price: $0.50 for a bulb (approximately 10 cloves)
Quantity Needed: 1 bulb
Total Cost: $0.50
Cooked Black Beans:
Price: $1.00 for a 15 oz can (approximately 1.5 cups cooked)
Quantity Needed: 4 cans
Total Cost: $4.00
Sweet Corn:
Price: $0.75 for a 15 oz can
Quantity Needed: 2 cans
Total Cost: $1.50
Shredded Cheddar Cheese:
Price: $3.00 for an 8 oz bag
Quantity Needed: 4 bags
Total Cost: $12.00
Large Eggs:
Price: $2.50 per dozen
Quantity Needed: 2 dozen
Total Cost: $5.00
Optional Toppings:
Salsa: $3.00 for a 16 oz jar
Avocado: $1.00 each (average)
Sour Cream: $2.00 for a 16 oz container
Cilantro: $1.00 for a bunch
Total Cost (if using all options): $10.00
Total Estimated Cost (without optional toppings): $41.00
Total Estimated Cost (including optional toppings): $51.00
These prices are approximate and may vary based on location, brand, and store discounts. Adjustments can be made based on personal preferences and availability.
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I am an adult pt. 2
Hi. So this is part 2 to I am an adult. I already had an idea that I wanted to do another part but thank you to the Anon who gave me a good idea for it. I hope you enjoy it. <3
Barca Femeni x Reader
Part 1 : Part 2 : Part 3 : Part 3.5 : Part 4
TW: Angst
Word Count: 4k
Description: R realises she might not be as adult as she things she is
Everything was wonderful for the first few weeks after they came to your house. They calmed down, and you calmed down. It was great. But something felt … off. They stopped treating you like a child. Which is what you wanted, right? You had asked for this. You had asked them to stop policing your actions and criticising you. You wanted this. Then why did it feel so wrong?
You didn't go crazy; you continued your life as it always had been; movie nights with Patri, dinner with Pina, coffee with Ona. Everything was totally and completely normal. Except you no longer came home to text messages asking about your location or concerns over your safety. You no longer had Lucy reminding you about your weekly food shop that needed to match your nutritional needs. You no longer had Alexia helping you fill out your official government documents. You no longer had Marta and Caro texting you about your upcoming schedules. You no longer had Paños checking to ensure you were up at the correct times. Your safety net had slipped away, and you were dangling in the middle of open water without anyone to catch you.
But this was entirely of your own making. You didn't realise it, but you had failed to apologise to them. You had failed to act like the adult you thought you were and own up to your actions. They didn't realise it either, not consciously anyway, until a few days later. Paños watched you from the corner of her eye, goofing off with Mapi when she got a sour taste in her mouth. Ingrid had approached her to apologise for her behaviour when she snapped at them. The adult thing to do.
"Hey, Ale?" Paños caught Alexia's elbow, stopping her from moving away. "Did Y/N ever apologise to you? For shouting in the changing rooms?" Alexia frowned. No, you hadn't. You had shouted at her in front of your colleagues, your friends, and you hadn't said a word. Never mind that she was your captain. You yelled at someone in public when they only tried to help. And never said sorry. She shook her head. Sandra hummed and began making discreet enquiries about whether you had apologised to anyone else; over the past few months, you had been rude to all of them. Even Ingrid and Mapi when they had expressed concern over you going out for the third night in a row. They had all apologised to you, recognising their own faults with the extreme actions they had around you. But you didn't extend the same courtesy to them. The older teammates pulled back even further, annoyed with your behaviour and lack of ownership over them – again, it was something you weren't aware of, too busy in your bubble of newfound freedom.
Over the next three months or so, you were finding things increasingly more difficult. At first, it was the food shop. When you were with Alexia, she always kept something healthy in the freezer for you should you feel like food shopping was too much for you but you needed something in the fridge or pantry. After long days at the training centre and after matches, the last thing you wanted to do was go to the always-too-busy shops. So, you began ordering food some days of the week. It wasn't like you ordered anything too unhealthy; you always got something vaguely nutritious with vegetables, protein, and carbohydrates. Everything you need for a well-balanced meal. But with the increased deliveries, the carefully constructed budget that Alexia and Lucy had worked out for you began to crumble. Soon, your bank account was much less full than it once was.
It was a sunny morning in early May when things really hit the fan. You had been pulled into a conference room. It all looked very official. Men with official suits you didn't recognise sat on one end of the long table. The Barcelona Big Bosses, as you called them, were along another. Jonatan and Alexia sat on the third side of the table, leaving a single seat on the fourth. Jonatan looked concerned, the Big Bosses looked stern, and the Officials looked bored. Alexia looked furious – she refused to look at you, her hands fiddling with the pen in front of her.
"Hola," you said as you took your seat. Introductions were made, and something small and square was placed on the table in the middle.
Buen día. "Soy Carlos Álvarez y él es mi colega Juan Ramírez; trabajamos para el Departamento de Estado y hemos sido asignados a su caso." You stared at the Official blankly. Your Spanish had been improving, but he spoke too quickly for you to understand. "Le gustaría que esta entrevista se realizara en inglés?" You looked to Alexia for guidance, but she stayed staring at the papers in front of her.
"Um, lo siento, um, no en-entiendo. No hablo español," you responded. It was the phrase Lucy had taught you when you first arrived. The man gestured to one of the other Officials.
"My name is Juan Ramirez, and this is Carlos Álvarez; we are officers from the State Department assigned to your case." Your heart stopped. Did you have a case with the State Department? How? Why? Your fear must have shown on your face as Jonatan took pity on you.
"Y/N, you haven't filled out any tax forms or completed your Right to Work visa." Tax forms? A right-to-work visa? You have never had to fill any of those things out before.
"But … I've not completed those before."
"Yes, you have. Look." Juan handed you photocopies of filled-out forms, all with your name and information on them.
"I didn't …"
"I did it for you, Y/N," Alexia answered. "We used to sit down together and do it." When did you do that? You don't remember any forms.
"It shouldn't take too long to actually fill out the forms, but because they're late, you must go to court to hand them to the judges. Due to your status and job, you can stay in the country, but you cannot participate in matches or training until you have received confirmation from the State Department that you can work again." Juan explained. Court? No training? No matches? "We will also have to freeze your salary. It will be back-dated once you have the necessary documentation, but as of right now, you cannot receive any more money for FC Barcelona or anyone else in Spain." No more money? You were really starting to panic. What did they mean you couldn't be paid? You tried frantically to get Alexia's attention, but she refused to meet your eyes.
The rest of the meeting was a blur. You had been escorted to the mercifully empty changing rooms and gathered your things. As you entered the main corridor, you met an incensed Alexia, with Marta, Paños, Patri and Irene standing behind her. The captains.
You went to open your mouth when Alexia cut you off. "I don't want to hear a word from you. How could you be so irresponsible? You said you wanted to be treated like an adult, yet you do something as stupid as this. You could be deported, Y/N. You could be banned from ever entering Spain again."
"I know, but-"
"Do you? Do you know? You said you wanted to be treated like the adult you claimed you are, but you are not acting like one. Adults take responsibility for their own actions. Adults apologise to their friends for shouting at them. Adults can complete simple forms that take only a few minutes to complete. Adults act like adults," she continued. You felt a singular tear roll down your cheek. "And now you're crying," Alexia threw her hands in the air. "You wanted to be an adult, and you failed." That stung. But it wasn't a lie either. And that made it hurt worse. "Adults own up to their consequences and deal with them."
"Alright, Ale. I think she gets it." Patri tried to help you. She was one of your best friends, after all.
"Does she? Do you understand? Do you understand how much trouble you are in? Not just with me or the club but with the government?"
"Yes," you whispered so quietly that she barely heard you. She straightened to her full height, chest puffed out, shoulders back.
"You will not have contact with anyone from this club until you have received confirmation that you are allowed to work here. I will not allow you to drag them into your mess. When you are allowed back to train, you will be on the pitch every day at 7 am. You will complete extra laps before and after training until I deem it appropriate for you to stop. You will apologise to every single person who works for FC Barcelona for the hassle you have created for them. You will have to earn your right to even sit on the bench, let alone play or be a part of the Starting XI. You will have to earn back our respect, not just as a player, but as a person." Alexia said icily before pushing past you. The others followed suit, slightly concerned for you but still following their captain's lead. Patri gently patted your shoulder as she went.
You made it about 5 minutes into your car journey home before you deemed it too dangerous to drive. You pulled into a quiet side street and sobbed. You had really fucked up. You had really, truly, absolutely fucked up. And you weren't talking about the paperwork. That terrified you, of course. You had never even spoken to the Police, and now you had an open case file against you with the State Department. But what hurt the most was how appallingly and horrifically you had fucked up your friendships. The older girls had taken you under their wings without being asked. And how did you repay them? By behaving like a little brat who wanted to sit at the big girl's table.
The next day, Juan and Carlos turned up on your doorstep, armed with a mountain of paperwork and a tough expression. It had taken you 4 hours to complete all the documents you needed. Your court date came through the post a few weeks later. It was set for a month's time. You had hardly left your house. Initially, you wallowed in self-deprecation and began to hate yourself for how you treated the people in your team. The women that had helped you settle into Spain without being asked. The women who let you sleep in their spare rooms and crash on their couches. The women who filled out essential documents for you without you even realising it. And you had never even thanked them. Instead, you had hated them, resented them for the suffocating feeling you thought they had created. Maybe it was you? Perhaps you were so insistent on doing 'normal' things that you made your own asphyxiating environment around them?
After a week of feeling sorry for … everything, you decided enough was enough. You dragged yourself out of bed and into the shower. You forced yourself to make food and do an at-home workout. After moving your body a little bit, you sat down and began to concoct a plan. Alexia told you you had to apologise to everyone under the FC Barcelona banner. So that's where you would start. You wrote a list with each department on it. You couldn't find individual names, but you knew roughly how big the department was. You wanted to do something that was genuinely hard as an apology.
Buying flowers with a printed note was easy. So, you decided baking was the best option. You could bake reasonably well, and who doesn't love sweet treats. You decided it was better to be safe than sorry, so you made as many cakes, muffins, doughnuts, churros, brownies, and cookies as possible. The works. You couldn't go near the training centre, so you couriered them each day, handing over your mountain of confectionary with a label attached to which department it should go. Inside was a handwritten note apologising profusely for the difficulties you had caused them, promising that you would come to speak to them in person as soon as you were able to. The team was slightly easier to individualise things; you knew their favourites, so you spent a few days baking up a storm for them. You knew they were under strict instructions not to contact you – you wondered what punishment would await them if they tried – but you couldn't deny the total radio silence hurt a little. Could they really cut you out of their life so quickly? But this was your own making, you kept reminding yourself. This was on you. You had to fix this.
Eventually, your time in court came as you handed over the documents. The judge was strict and disapproving, but you could tell the man behind the gavel was nice enough. Your official confirmation documents came two days later, with instructions on who to give them to and when your next form deadlines were. You took out your phone, recorded the dates in your calendar, and wrote them on a piece of paper to pin to your fridge.
All that was left for you to do now was go to training.
Go to training and face the team.
Go to training and face the older girls you had been so rude to.
Go to training and face your captains.
Go to training and face Alexia again.
You set your alarm for 6 am the following day. You completed your usual daily routine – showering, brushing your teeth, getting your protein shake and breakfast, getting changed, getting in the car, and driving to the grounds. You had hoped it would calm you, but as the building got nearer and nearer, your nerves began to skyrocket. Taking steadying breaths, you made your way to the changing rooms. The building was eerie, being this quiet. Typically, the hallways were filled with loud chatter, and the changing rooms were filled with laughter. You made your way onto the pitches at 6.45. You were early, hoping it showed Alexia that you were trying to fix things. You initially decided to stand and wait for her, but then you remembered that she had told you you would be running until she decided you would stop. So, you start doing your stretching and activation. You didn't know this, but the Captains watched you from the conference room. It had floor-to-ceiling windows that overlooked the training facility. After your stretches, your phone buzzed. Alexia had texted.
Ale <3: 30 laps.
Cariño: Hi. Yes, no problem. Will you be coming outside?
Ale <3: No, but I will know if you cheat.
30 laps was a lot. But you didn't want to cheat; this was your punishment for all the stress you had caused, so you would do it, and you would do it honestly—even if it killed you. You had asked because you wanted to see Alexia. You tried to apologise to her first, but that wasn't an option at the moment.
Ale <3: It's 7. Start running.
You filled with your watch as you took off on a gentle jog.
"30? Are you trying to kill her?" Irene asked as she watched you complete your 20th lap. You had only been running for about 35 minutes, but she was mildly concerned. This was the first time you'd done any significant form of movement in a while.
"She won't be needed in matches for a while. She'll be fine." Alexia wasn't about to let you off the hook.
"I know she won't be at matches for a while, but come on, Ale. She's got to do a full day's training after this. And laps afterwards." Marta pointed out. They had all been disappointed and hurt by your actions, but she thought Alexia might be taking it too far.
"She's fine. And who said she won't be at matches?" Alexia smiled, slightly evilly, Patri thought.
"You did?" Paños looked at her, confused.
"No, I said she won't be playing in matches. She will still attend them." They all shared mildly worried looks but let Alexia have her way.
When you eventually finished, you walked around with your hands on your head, taking deep breaths and trying to slow your heart rate down.
Ale <3: You can go. Be at breakfast at 8.30.
Your heart sank a little as you felt the iciness behind her texts, but this was your own doing. You had to deal with the consequences—like an adult. You headed to the showers to get dressed for the next training session, your shoulders slightly drooping. Alexia couldn't deny that it pulled on her heartstrings a little, but you must be taught a lesson about accountability.
When you arrived out of the showers, the changing room was busy. Everyone stopped talking as you walked to your cubby. You decided to utilise everyone staring at you to your advantage.
"I would like to take this time to apologise to you as a team. I will be coming and doing it individually as well, but I wanted to do this as a team. I am so, deeply, truly sorry for the way I have been acting in these last few months. I was angry and frustrated, but instead of talking calmly like an adult, I raised my voice and lashed out. I am so sorry. I am also sorry for causing a rift in the team – that was never my intention. I am also sorry for the issues I have caused by not completing simple forms. I apologise." You nodded and turned around, hoping the eyes wouldn't keep looking at you. Ona first broke the silence, nudging you slightly and smirking as you met her eyes.
The training was brutal, and Jonatan was not taking it easy on you (and you were reasonably sure it had a little bit to do with Alexia). You used the time you were allowed to talk to apologise to everyone personally. Most people shook you off, but the older girls listened to you and told them how much you hurt them. They accepted it nonetheless – they could see you were trying to make amends. You got through training without complaints, like an adult. You helped collect the equipment before stopping in front of your 4 captains.
"H – How many laps?" You asked, not quite looking any of them in the eyes.
"5," Alexia commented. You nodded and set off running again.
"Ale, aren't you being a little harsh? You're making her run about 6km today on top of training." Marta looked at you. You looked a little weak, running slower than this morning. But you had the determined glint in your eye that told her only Alexia could make you stop.
"She needs to learn her lesson." She shrugged and moved away.
It continued for about three weeks before Jonatan put his foot down. He was starting to get more than a little concerned by your and Alexia's behaviour. You had made up with the rest of the team entirely. The older girls, bar Alexia, asked you about your evenings, and you asked about theirs—just like any group of adults would do.
"Alexia. You need to stop this. She has proved herself. She has said sorry to every person in this building. You need to stop punishing her. I want her back on the team sheets for matches, and I can't do that with you slowly killing her." Jonatan had called her into his office after training. He hadn't initially questioned her behaviour; he had supported it at the beginning. But he could see that the constant rejection from her was getting to you. You were still young, after all.
"She hasn't," Alexia said, watching as he furrowed his brow in confusion. "She hasn't apologised to me."
"Maybe that's because you keep looking at her like you're going to kill her. I see her come up to you, clearly trying to apologise, and then you stare at her, not unlike how you're staring at me now." She quickly fixed her face. "You're terrifying the poor girl."
Her talk with Jonatan made Alexia question her methods a little bit. Yes, she made you run an additional 35 laps daily, but you had to learn your lesson, right? This was the only way to make you see how you were behaving. She was sure of it. In actuality, she was hurt. Your actions had really hurt her. Disregarding you shouting at her in front of everyone, you hadn't wanted her. And that really stung. She may have wanted you to also feel that pain … just a little bit.
As Alexia walked up to your door, she was slightly … nervous? No, that couldn't be right. She was Alexia Putellas, she didn't get nervous. But she was. It was the same feeling she got as a teenager when she knew she had run late at training, missing her curfew, and knowing that her mother was waiting for her behind the door. She decided she was more apprehensive than nervous. Alexia did not get nervous. As she raised her hand to knock, the door disappeared.
"I really don't know what to do," you jumped slightly as you registered that someone was standing before you. "Oh, hi," you said uncertainly. "Ona, I've got to go … Ale, um, Alexia's here … bye." You hung up the phone, putting your coat back behind the door. "Would you like to come in?" You offered meekly.
"Por favor. If that's ok." You smiled hesitantly and stepped back.
"Would you like a drink? I've got water, juice, tea, coffee … wine?" You sounded so unsure of yourself. Had she caused this?
"A tea would be lovely." You both settled yourself with the standard social conventions.
"I wanted to talk to you, actually," you said as you gestured to the table. "I wanted to apologise to you. I shouldn't have spoken to you like that. I was rude. I should have been adult enough to discuss my feelings properly," you stared hard at the table, fidgeting with the mug in your hands. As Alexia opened her mouth again, you continued, pushing through before she could comment. "I would also like to apologise for what happened with the documents. I was so stupid not to fill out those forms. I made something that would have taken an afternoon at most into a massive thing. I'm sorry if I caused any embarrassment to you, as a person or as Capitana." You thought you embarrassed her? Yes, what you did was irresponsible, but you were living alone for the first time in a new country. Alexia should have made you do the forms earlier when you still lived with her, not doing them herself without your knowledge.
"Gracias, cariño." You looked up, shocked at the term of endearment. She hadn't called you that in a long time. "I would also like to apologise."
"You have nothing to-" you interjected.
"Sí, cariño, I do. I was so harsh on you. Harsher than what was warranted. I'm sorry. I'm not embarrassed; I never was. I was hurt. You said you didn't need or want me anymore. That hurt me," she explained.
"Ale … Alexia, I'll always want you around. I didn't want to go cold turkey on you. I just wanted you to treat me like you treat Cláudia, or Jana, or Ona. But I never wanted you to not be in my life." She smiled softly at your response. Although, she didn't like that you hesitated to call her Ale.
"Look at us, cariño, talking like the adults we both are." She joked as she sipped on her tea.
"Like the adults we both are, Ale." You smiled back.
So that was part 2. I hope you liked it. I don't think I'll make any more parts, but we shall see.
#barca femeni#barca femeni x reader#fc barcelona#woso blurbs#woso community#woso imagine#woso x reader#alexia putellas#alexia putellas x reader#woso fanfics#woso fluff#woso oneshot#woso#womens football
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raised by wolves | b.barnes & y.belova
[Warnings] dark!alpha!bucky x reader, grey!yelena x reader, bucky x reader x yelena, bucky barnes x yelena belova, werewolf au, a/b/o dynamics, beta!reader, wilson!reader, stalking, forced mating/marking, noncon/dubcon, raunchy threesome ahead, polyamory, oral sex (female recieving), dominant/submissive, unprotected sex, hints at breeding, forced orgasms, kidnapping (pretty much), bucky is a dumb alpha, yelena is a good teacher
A/N: My inspiration for this is basically seeking sister wife meets GoT dany/drogo lol
In which Bucky and Yelena find the mate of their dreams.
word count: 8k
taglist: @cherienymphe @marvelmaree @onsunnyside @autumnroses-blog @isysen @inlovewithhisblueeyes @reveise @speechlessxx @lesbians4levinson2021 @darksideofthecocoamoon @darkndirtyndangerous @mayasreadingnook @yelenabelovadeservesbetter @queenoftheworldisdead @khaleesiaura @ tastycakee @honeydulcewrites @thecutestlittlebunbunfairy
(!!no one on my taglist interacts anymore so i’m adding some people who have recently interacted with my stories, let me know if you’d like to be removed!!)
“Sam, you really didn’t have to do this.”
You had rolled your eyes so hard when you saw him pull into the dirt road you called your driveway. He lugged brown paper bags full of groceries into your home despite the fact that you had already budgeted and created a list for what you were going to get on your next trip. Your vegetable plants were already sprouting and that was going to save you even more money.
“Your idea of a full and satisfying meal is totally different from mine. Mama always made us three meals a day, and snacks, to keep us healthy, and your little vegetable diet is not going to keep you strong.”
“So you think I’m getting weaker?” You followed your older brother into your own kitchen and he began to pile all of the food into your mostly empty cabinets. Your kitchen was built into a small, half square shape with old oak cabinets and an even older, green refrigerator, “Sam, I will continue to run circles around you until we’re old and decrepit.”
“Hey, I’ll admit you’ve beaten me a few times but you ain't never ran circles around me. Besides that, I know for a fact you couldn’t beat me right now. When is the last time you’ve even shifted? How much do you even exercise when you’re spending all your time reading, going to work, and playing in your little garden?”
Your lips parted in shock, “I shift every week … at least! And I do exercise! I’ve got miles and miles of forest surrounding me, plenty of room to exercise and you know what’s even better about that? I don’t have to wake up to your yapping and I don’t have to fall asleep anywhere near your smelly butt.”
Sam simply smiled and you realized he was getting a kick out of riling you up. You and Sam were always close and it was dumb of you to assume that the he’d be able to give you more space even after moving so far away. He’d traveled five hours just to come and see you.
“And your sparring skills? You don’t have anyone to practice with.”
“Sam, I’m fine,” His face fell a little and you wondered where his usual light-hearted spirit had gone, “You came up here for a different reason, right?”
He went quiet, piling frozen meat into your small freezer, “Sam?” You pried again, approaching him with your arms crossed, “What’s up?”
“Bucky escaped. When he got caught by those hunters, we thought they would kill him. Turns out, they’ve just been poking and prodding at him for years.”
“He . . .” The news jarred you and suddenly Sam’s visit made even more sense, “But he doesn’t have a pack.”
“You think Bucky Barnes needs a pack to be strong,” It was sarcastic and you knew Sam was only being blunt because he was serious. And probably scared too, “And we didn’t get news about his escape until this week. He’s been out for months. Plenty of time to form allegiances.”
“But he doesn’t … he doesn’t know where I-”
“Y/N,” He warned, a hint of his alpha tone threatening to escape his mouth, “Me coming here was a risk, I know that, but you staying is even more of a risk.”
Barnes killed his father for a title that was meant to be honorably passed down to him. When his own mother resisted his rule, he killed her too. He expected everyone to bow down to him but most of his pack sought refuge in places like our pack, The Red Wing Pack.
“And bring chaos back to Red Wing?” You shook your head, “It’s not worth it.”
Sam sighed, and you sensed that he was expecting your answer. He wouldn’t have brought all these groceries if he’d expected you to leave with him.
“He killed every hunter and scientist in the building where they were keeping him. I got word from the Sokovian pack after they cleaned everything up, burned the whole place down. He’s bloodthirsty, little sister. He’s going to want land, he’s going to want power, and he’s going to want mates. Dad had no idea what Bucky would turn out to be when he promised you to him. He also didn’t know you’d present as a Beta.”
Everything about the pack system was archaic. That was the whole reason why you moved far away from your entire family. Bucky Barnes’s father saved your own father’s life years before you were even born. He saved your entire pack and he promised his first born daughter to the first born son of his new ally. The union would create one of the strongest pack allyships on the continent.
“And no one would ever concede their power to him, let alone marry him!”
“Alpha Romanov has allied with him, she helped him kill Alpha Barton.”
You froze, “Clint is dead? That doesn’t make any sense. Why would Natasha have him killed?”
“She believes in Bucky. That he’s going to come out on top during all of this. That outweighed her loyalty. That’s why you’re just my first stop on my road trip. I’m meeting with lots of packs. We’re gonna need a strong force to combat this and we have to be prepared for anything-”
“Including war?”
Sam nodded, “Including war.”
“Sam, you know I don’t want any part of that. It’s enough that Dad basically sold me like his most prized horse. I don’t want or need a pack. I want to be … normal.”
Sam’s face was sullen, “You’ll call me every few days? It’s hard knowing you’re alone out here. And if I don’t hear from you, you know I’ll-”
“Send the whole pack for me? I know,” You sighed. You felt a bit suffocated by the news you’d received. Bucky Barnes was a real reason to panic but you’d already made yourself less of a target and Sam would never reveal where you lived. Besides that, you had no reason to believe that Bucky would come after you. You’d never met him, by the time you were born, he’d already established himself as the troubled son who’d run away from his pack, leading a group of rogues and causing catastrophe in his path. Your Dad passed away when you were still a toddler, and even if he was alive, he’d never allow Bucky near you, “Thank you for the groceries, Sam.”
Sam clapped his hands together, “You’re welcome. I guess that’s my cue to get out of your hair.”
“I’ll call whenever I can.”
Sam pulled you into a hug, leaving a comforting kiss on your forehead.
Three weeks passed and you’d spoken to Sam at least four times. Every conversation was similar with Sam updating you on his progress, how many packs he’d spoken to, and how many agreed to fight against Bucky if the time came. That if was slowly turning to when. With each pack, Sam was also learning more rumors about Bucky. He’d taken Yelena, Alpha Romanov’s sister as a mate, a symbol for his alliance with the Black Widow pack. He’d also gained alliances with at least two smaller packs by challenging the Alphas and winning their packs through killing them.
The conversations were turning more gruesome and you began to call Sam less and less. It wasn’t that you weren’t about your big brother but you knew he could take care of himself. Besides that, the more you think about home, the more you were distracted during your new life. There was a small town twenty minutes from your cottage, there were only about ten shops in the downtown area, and you’d manage to get a job at Wagging Pet Grooming. Your boss noted your incredibly unique energy that seemed to calm down any scared dog.
A blonde woman entered the shop and you greeted her with a smile, expecting a dog to be in tow. You could tell she was shorter from just standing on the other side of the counter from her. She didn’t even have a purse, you noted, her hands in the back pocket of her jeans, “Hi, can I help you with something?”
The fact that you didn’t recognize her as one of the usual customers set off a small alarm in your mind.
“Hi,” There was a layer of sweat on her forehead and she sounded as if she was out of breath, “I’m sorry to bother you. I’m not from around here, I was just stopping in my car for a second, and it totally pooped out. You wouldn’t happen to be able to jump me, would you?”
Her accent alone was a good indication that she wasn’t from here. You rounded the front counter, “Where’s your car?”
“In front of the hardware store across the street,” She pointed out the glass window.
“Uhm, let me close up the store, and I’ll bring my car around front.”
“Oh, thank you so much …” Her eyes met with your nametag, “Kelly, you’re saving my life.”
It was easier and safer for you to have a new name as well as a completely made up background.
You did as you said. Bringing your dinged up jeep to the other side of the street where she was waiting. You had your own jumper cables and learning how to use them was one of the first things you learned when you went out on your own.
You attached the cables the way you remembered, “Okay, I’m gonna turn my car on and then you try to start yours.” Her car was quite nicer than yours, a practically brand new crossover.
It only takes two tries for her car to turn on.
When you moved to detach the cables, she got out the car to hug you, “Oh my god, Kelly, you’re amazing,” It catches you off guard and you mostly go stiff though her hugging abilities are quite impressive, “Sorry, I should buy you lunch. Can I buy you lunch?”
You instantly shook your head, “No but thank you. I packed mine. And uhm, you should get driving anyways. You wanna keep the car running for a while.”
“Oh,” She smiled brightly at you, “Well, I won’t bother you any longer. It was nice to meet you, Kelly. Us single girls have to stick together, right?”
“Right.”
The way she spoke your fake name made your mouth twitch, ruining the facade of the kind look you were giving her. She was beautiful, no doubt, and that made you curious why she was traveling alone. You supposed you could say the same thing about yourself. You said a brief goodbye to her, watching as she pulled away in her car. Her gaze was so intense before that you could almost feel it lingering on you still.
Sam warned you against shifting as well as making sure you were never being followed when returning from work. In this part of the country, the population was so small that there was rarely any news of crimes being committed. The last controversy you heard while in town was about one deer hunter accidentally shooting another. And you didn’t have to worry about deer hunters either. It would be impossible for a human to catch a Beta werewolf, gun or no gun.
You could shift anytime you needed but the full moon was nearing and your wolf was aching to escape. You’d stick close by the perimeter of your property and you’d make your way back as soon as your wolf was satisfied.
You left your work clothes folded by a tree, letting the light of the moon peeking through the trees soak your naked skin for a brief moment. You imagined that if you were a human girl, being naked in the woods at night would be a grave nightmare. For you, this felt like the most normal you could possibly be.
When you were in wolf form, there were no to do lists to go over and little to no worries that ever crossed your mind. You only thought of the stretching of your limbs, the wind through your brown fur, the presence of the moon goddess, and the desire to hunt. Your wolf certainly wouldn’t survive on your usual diet for vegetables and you found yourself more hungry for meat than usual. You traveled farther than usual, using a trail that you’d mentally mapped out yourself.
Hunting was much easier in groups and you knew this. You decided to hunt a much smaller prey, one that didn’t have hooves and antlers that could injure you. You were careful when you spotted a rabbit along the trail. You kept your distance, following it for a long while, until it perked up, realizing that you were there and it was in imminent damage. The rabbit was fast but you were much faster. You pounced on it, immobilizing it with your paws before quickly biting its throat. You bit at it excitedly, starting with the largest internal organs.
Your excitement was short lived, suddenly realizing that you’d just become someone else’s prey. You were distracted long enough for another wolf to enter your vicinity but you wasted no time, deciding to sprint away as fast as you could. By the smell, you could sense lots of wolves, but most importantly, you could sense an Alpha.
You weren’t weak by any means, but you weren’t as strong as you could be. There wasn’t enough time to think about Sam being right but you were sure that thought would come to haunt you later. You couldn’t lead them back to your cottage but you knew you couldn’t out run them forever. You were weak, and wolves could chase their prey for days on end.
Suddenly, your chance to panic and plan was interrupted. Whoever had found you, caught up to you much faster than you could even comprehend. You turned up, trying to trip them up or send them tumbling into the base of the tree. They kept their footing despite your attempt, and just like the rabbit, you were pounced on next.
You rolled together with a mass of muscle and black fur, the only sound in your ears was the Alpha’s deafening growl. Red eyes stared down at you as your body was pinned. You fought back of course, landing some deep bites to his skin, but that only left you open for him to stick his fangs deep into your neck. An Alpha’s bite to the neck served two purposes, to kill or to mate. When the Alpha didn’t immediately rip out your throat, confusion clouded you rather than fear. You were waiting to die and you certainly preferred it to the alternative.
He slowly removed his teeth, leaving you whimpering loud enough to wake the dead. You were a Beta, you deserved the respect of being courted, of your father’s permission being granted, and your own approval being considered.
He’d bit into your scent gland, marking you like you were an Omega. Worse than that. He’d marked you like you were less than Omega.
You didn’t recognize his scent. Only that he smelt similar to those you knew from the Winter Pack. As you put the pieces together, Sam’s voice echoed in your head.
Blood dripped from his mouth as he admired his word, sniffing the wound, before pressing his snout into your forehead. He was taking in your scent which was rapidly changing into one that would match a mated female. Through the corners of your eyes, you saw several wolves were now surrounding the two of you. They’d keep their because of him but you wish greatly someone would drag your body away or at least finish the job.
You couldn’t keep your eyes open for much longer with the pain becoming too much. The last thing you saw was a blonde she-wolf, one with shining blue eyes, and you were lulled to sleep as she licked your wounds.
It all happened to be a nightmare. That’s why you awoke in the lavender sheets and polkadot comforter of your own bed. The sun was peeking through your curtains like they always did and you already had your usual craving of a cup of hot coffee. All was fine, except you realized you could barely move your own face. As you turned your head only a little bit, pain shot through your body.
Tears slipped down your face, from the pain and from the realization that you’d been mated without your consent. You were clothed, at least, plaid pajamas wrapped your legs and you could tell you were wearing a t-shirt with the name of a state college. You reached to touch your neck, feeling the texture of a gauze. It took all your strength to sit yourself up.
You noted the way the other side of your bed looked slept in. You closed your eyes, taking a painful breath as you swung your legs over the side of the bed. In the mirror sitting on top of your dresser, you could see your own reflection. You felt like a bus had hit you, but other than the blood soaked gauze on your shoulder, your face was glowing. Your eyes were brighter, your eyelashes longer, and even your plump lips had more color.
Your phone came to mind. Your instinct was to call him though you didn’t know how’d you be able to face him once he laid eyes on the mark on your neck. You wanted to cry more but you forced yourself to wipe away your tears. He’d invaded your home, violated your body, and you couldn’t let him have one more thing over you.
Mate bonds could only be broken by death. It was him or you. When your bedroom door opened, a shirtless man appeared, his thick muscles on full display. Instead of burning red eyes, you were looking into blue ones. A sharp contrast from yesterday. His hair was long and dark with facial hair peppering his jaw. What you saw yesterday night was a man of nightmares and you almost felt … underwhelmed by the sight of him. The big, bad Alpha was actually handsome.
Go to him. You are his.
As he stepped inside the room, you backed yourself into the corner of the room. You winced at your movements, your hand rising to touch your neck. In his hands was a glass plate and you noticed the mountain of scrambled eggs, sausage links and strips of bacon. He lifted the plate, emphasizing it, as if he was saying it was meant for you.
“Don’t come closer!” You strained to yell, “Don’t.” He took a few steps before kneeling down to place the plate on the ground, sliding it closer to you.
Alpha wants to feed you. Let Alpha take care of you.
When did your wolf become so needy?
The only reaction he displayed was annoyance. There was a standoff of looks between you and you didn’t move any closer to the food like he was expecting. You slid down the wall, pulling your knees to your chest, your hand cradling your wound as it ached. You breathed heavily to keep yourself from crying.
Bucky took a seat in front of your bedroom door. If you jumped out the window, you imagined he’d chase you and there was no way you were getting past him inside. The two of you stared at each other for a solid thirty minutes before Bucky moved. He crawled over to grab the plate from the floor and you were forced to watch as he devoured all of the food.
When he finished, he stood up from his spot and left the room, “Where are you going?” You stood too, speed walking to the door, only to stop at its entrance. You watched from the door frame as he walked into your kitchen and began to scrub the plate.
You walked to your front door which was adjacent to the small living room. Through the screen door you could see your jeep still out front. Your phone was probably still inside. As soon as you opened the door, a hand reached above you to close it. His scent surrounded you, threatening to suffocate you, and deep down you felt an urge to touch his naked chest. You did but only to push him away from you. He stepped back, not because you had any effect on you, but because he seemed to be granting you the space you wanted.
You watched as he reached into his shorts, pulling out your phone and you quickly snatched it from his hands. Has he been through all of your stuff? You stepped away from him, feeling his eyes on your back, as you easily found Sam’s contact number.
“Y/N?”
“Sam, I-I..” You couldn’t stop your voice from choking up, “I’m okay, I’m alive, just a little hurt.”
“What does that mean?” Your older brother rushed out.
“Sam, don’t say anything. He’s listening,” You could feel his heart dropping to his stomach, “Remember what we talked about the last time you were here. You don’t need to send anyone after me and I don’t want you to see me like this, either. You’re prepared for this. You know the smart thing to do.”
“I’ll kill him.”
Sam rushing into battle after you would only get him killed. You hoped he’d eventually calm down and think clearly about this.
“I’m sorry,” You told him solemnly, “I love you. Goodbye.”
When you turned to look at Bucky, his arms were crossed over his chest. Sadness was replaced by pure hatred in your eyes. You didn’t care that he was an Alpha or that he’d staked his claim on you. You could still hurt him.
With all the energy you could muster, you rushed towards him, pelting him with your fists. That same annoyed look crossed his face. He didn’t even bother shielding himself, he took every hit you threw at him, and when he had enough, he yanked you up by your waist. Kicking and screaming, he brought you back to the bedroom. You’re a Beta, you should be able to at least hurt him, but every effort was futile.
Do not hurt Alpha. Alpha will take care of us.
He pinned you on the bed with your hands above your head. He straddled your legs as he carefully removed your bandage. With analytical eyes, he looked over your wound, and he did the last thing you were expecting or ready for, “Wait-”
He licked your wound.
Alpha is healing us.
You expected a sharp stinging but unbelievable pleasure spread through your body. All the pain was fading as you writhed beneath him. He was careful, cleaning you, and fast forwarding the healing process. This is what being mated was supposed to feel like yet you couldn’t accept this. Couldn’t accept him.
Your body betrayed you and just from the touch of his lips against your shoulder, you climaxed hard. You hadn’t known your body could even do that but Bucky didn’t seem to be phased by it as he looked down into your drunken daze.
The pain was gone but that didn’t make you any less frightened. The most dangerous Alpha in the country had you pinned beneath you. And he wasn’t at all finished with you, “Get off!” You begged, feeling as though he was pushing your pride lower and lower.
He moved his legs from around you and before you could try to wiggle away, he was pulling down your bottoms, “No, no, no–” He let your arms go but quickly grabbed ahold of your waist. He flipped your body over, straddling your legs again. He pushed down on your back, pressing your chest and face into the bed as he pressed himself against your ass. You could feel just how ready he was, and as he pushed your panties to the side, he’d be able to tell how much your body was ready.
“Bucky, please!” It was a desperate attempt to use his name. He marked you like you were random trash on the street, why would he care how you felt.
Bucky didn’t waste time teasing you. As soon as his member was free, he was sheathing it deep inside of you. You felt you might melt into your sheets. You were so full of him. He was so much a part of you. Destroying you. He didn’t need to hold you down, only pull your hips back against him, as he did what was natural to him. You gripped the sheets tightly, a gasp forced out your lips with each hard thrust.
The sounds that left his mouth were animalistic as he grinded his hips into you. The deeper he went, the more it hurt in the best way possible. He tortured you when he pulled himself all the way out of you only to push himself back in. You were crying again, this time from all the hormones being released inside you. You found yourself climaxing again causing your body to shake and your hips to spasm against him.
Even after he spilled into you, he groaned and thrust himself inside you a few final times. You felt you collapse if he hadn’t held onto you. He turned you on your side, keeping himself inside of you, as he collapsed behind you.
Bucky had his way with you that exact way four more times that day. It was the same way for the next week. He’d make you food and he’d enter you from behind any chance that he got. You were forced to eat eventually, the constant sex leaving you even weaker than before. You explained to him that you had to go to work or your boss might get suspicious of your absence but he seemed to already know this. How long had he been tailing you and how had you not noticed?
He drove you to work and picked you up right as your shift ended. Your boss asked about the new, mysterious man and she could hardly believe you had any sort of romantic interest. She didn’t seem to care enough to ask you any further questions and you supposed that there wasn’t anything a human could do to help you anyways.
He didn’t leave your side much when you weren’t at work and he still hadn’t spoken a word to you. He took care of you, like your wolf had promised, bathing you and cuddling you into the most peaceful sleeps of your life.
Your wolf was growing comfortable which frightened you close to death.
Sam would come eventually, whenever he formed a big enough army, and what would he think of what you were turning into. You were below an Alpha’s mate. He didn’t even look at you as he rutted into you. He was only satiating his primal desires.
One night after your shift, he didn’t lead you back into the cottage. He urged you to follow him to the tree line and you watched, stumbling back, as he shifted into his wolf form. Human you stared back at the six foot tall werewolf, and his eyes were a normal blue, telling you that he was calm. Your heart raced, your mind bringing you back to the mark on your neck, and he clearly felt your hesitancy.
Shift, you finally heard his voice. The word traveled over your skin and you could feel your wolf pushing to the front of your consciousness. It was a painful process, the snapping of your bones, causing you to cry out as you fell to your knees. Don’t fight it, you heard him again.
Bucky towered over your whimpering figure and he began to press his snout into your neck before licking your face. A sign of affection as well as a sign of dominance. Your wolf was much happier to be with him. She followed him closely as he led her, feeling comfortable enough to even try to play with him. He held his head high, his tail in the air, as you ran around him.
You traveled only a handful of miles before you reached what you knew was a camp. You stuck by Bucky as you passed a few shifted wolves. They bowed their heads as Bucky passed and moved through the camp. Large tents were set up in a circle, the middle of the camp serving as a place for food to be made, an area to socialize, a market, and stations for tools and weapons to be made. Even those in their human forms, bowed to their Alpha as we passed. Before you reached the largest tent at the end of the camp, Bucky shifted back into his human form and you soon heard the first word he’d actually spoken to you. “Shift,” He commanded, and like before, your wolf was forced to cooperate.
Instinctively, your hands moved to cover your chest as you rose from the ground. You looked around, sure you looked like a frightened puppy, as your eyes met with a few members of the pack. You weren’t exposed for long as Bucky took your wrists in his hand, dragging you into the tent. You couldn’t note any of the features inside as your eyes immediately connected with a familiar blonde. The woman who needed help with her car.
She’d clearly mellowed out, no longer having to fake her niceness. She wore a long, black sundress, her blonde hair tied in a bun, and her collarbone showed a mating mark just like yours. She approached you as Bucky walked away from you. For a moment, you were wishing he was holding you again. How was it that you were more frightened of her at that moment?
You still covered your chest, and in the corner of your eyes, you saw Bucky dressing himself. She eyes your neck marking, “That’s gnarly,” She commented. Her mark was much neater than yours, a sign that she had accepted it willingly, “How bad did it hurt?”
“Why?” Yelena knew what you meant by that. Your anger was obvious as you spoke through gritted teeth.
“Hey, it wasn’t my idea. I’d never voluntarily put suppressants in my system,” That explained why you never smelt her and that meant she knew exactly what you were the entire time she was trying to get close to you, “I still wanted to meet you though. You’re much prettier than we were both expecting. We were expecting a carbon copy of Sam Wilson but you’re quite special.”
Instinctively, you looked to Bucky who was stoic as usual. They both had been watching you. Taking multiple mates was a common practice in the old days. It was rare nowadays as our populations were growing and the negative attitudes toward female shifters had changed.
Bucky added nothing to the conversation, leaving the tent a moment later, “I’m sure you’ve noticed he’s not much of a talker. It’s always the quiet ones …” Yelena’s voice trailed off, “Let me get you something to wear.”
The dress she chose was a cream color, a contrast to hers, but you were glad to not be so vulnerable in front of her. The tent’s bed was low to the ground, covered in various quilts, and it was quite large in size. There was a bear skin rug to decorate the ground and several wooden baskets made for storage. Other than a small table that sat two, there was a wooden basin you assumed was for bathing.
“What’s his plan?” You asked, sitting a few inches from Yelena on the edge of his bed. You finally had someone to actually communicate with and you wouldn’t waste the opportunity, “For me, I mean.”
“His evil plan?” She smiled mischievously, “My guess is he’s going to force an alliance with your Alpha Sam. He’d probably do anything for you, right?”
“He wouldn’t give up everything he believes in for me,” You shook your head.
“Then he’ll die, I suppose,” You scowled at her and she raised her hands in defense, “Sorry, that was harsh. I just mean that everyone will surrender in the end, whether there’s war or not. But, don’t tell him I said this, I have a suspicion that he wants you for much more than an alliance.”
Eyebrows raised, you asked, “What do you mean?”
“He speaks your name in his sleep. I’ve noticed a few times. That’s why I was so curious to meet you.”
That could mean nothing. You hoped it meant nothing. You felt a hand on your shoulder and you were surprised you hadn’t flinched at her touch. You didn’t meet her eyes as her small fingers traveled over your scars. Although you hadn’t sensed she was a wolf when you first met, her scent still felt familiar. You realized you’d seen her on the night you were bitter. The blonde wolf, “I could feel how scared you were,” She spoke absentmindedly, “I didn’t like seeing you like that, but if there’s anything I learned these past months, is that Bucky doesn’t cause pain without a purpose.”
“Why did you choose this? To be with him?”
Your eyes closed as you felt a soft kiss on your shoulder. It was unusual, not feeling the stubble of Bucky’s beard.
“I think you’ll see soon. I can tell my soul is similar to his, like we’ve been tortured by the same things. Bucky’s not so bad, really,” Her warm breath was gentle against your skin and you wondered how someone who wasn’t your mate could have this effect on you, “And he promised me that if I let him take the lead with me, he’d let me take the lead with someone else. I know you’re fighting much of your nature, but you can let your guard down with me.’
She was a Beta like you, you weren’t meant to follow her, but she wasn’t trying to force the submission out of you. It felt like you had a choice with her, and selfishly, you wanted to feel more of that. When she leaned in to kiss you, you didn’t pull away from her, and with her hand on your cheek, you let her guide you.
Bucky never kissed your lips like this and you found yourself wanting her so bad that you kissed her until your lips were aching. You leaned back into the bed as she climbed on top of you, parting your legs with her knees. She pressed her knee towards your center, leaving you grinding against her desperately for more friction, “He fucks you like an animal, doesn’t he?” She purred, “You poor thing.”
She moved her leg in the center to your other side before she grabbed your hands. You thought she might pin them above your head but she placed them on her own hips, “He loses control with you. He wants to own you,” She pulled the ribbon from her hair, freeing it before she ran her fingers through it. All the while she was grinding her hips against you, allowing you to fully look at her, how her nipples poked through her thin dress and feel the curves of body, “I’m sure a girl like you needs a rough fucking every now and then but you want someone to make love to you, hmm?”
She held your breast in her hands, massaging them, as she skillfully moved her hips against your crotch. As her fingers tightly squeezed the most sensitive parts of your nipple, you thought you might cum from that alone, “Look at me,” She directed, snapping you from your trance, “I’ll teach you to make love, printcessa.”
She moved your hands to her bottom, encouraging you to squeeze and feel as she leaned down to resume your kissing.
“Go as slow as you want, and you don’t have to bounce. Grinding feels the best. You can control the speed and how deep you want it.” The first time you had sex was a few days ago and yet you had no idea how versatile it could be, “And let him see you. Let him gaze at you, take in all of your beauty. You’re the girl of his dreams. Don’t let him forget you’re the treasure, why else would he work so hard to have you.”
“I can’t-” You moaned as she kissed your neck.
“You can,” She whispered into her ear. She suddenly stopped her movements, leaving you high and dry, “You will.”
The camp of rogues wasn’t at all what you expected it to be. You couldn’t imagine them as the ones causing death and carnage all around the country. The people were almost friendly. Almost friendly because you were still an outsider to them and someone who was a supporter of modern pack dynamics. They followed Bucky because of his promise to bring back traditional values. They believed in him enough to kill and murder for him.
You supposed you had no right to judge their sins after you let your moment with Yelena get so heated. Now, you were stuck to her side as she showed you around, “This place is only temporary. We’ve only been here a few weeks. Bucky plans on traveling south soon.”
“And what about everything I have here?”
“You have me now. You have us,” Yelena said matter-of-factly, “Don’t tell me you dream of working your whole life.”
“I dream of having something that’s mine.”
“Hmm,” Yelena carefully connected freshly picked flowers together. The two of you sat together on a picnic bunch, a group of women having gracefully provided her with several baskets of flowers, “Well, maybe if you play house good enough with Bucky, he’ll want to stay. It seems like he was having fun with you.”
“This is fucked,” Yelena giggled at that.
“You’re telling me. Here, let me show you how to make a lei.”
You held up your hand, “I can make a leigh. We used to make them all the time for the mating ceremon–” You turned to her with wide eyes, “A mating ceremony? When?”
“Tonight,” She stated and she scooted closer as she felt you begin to panic, “All the firsts are almost done. This is the last step, I promise, and then you can find your new normal.”
With watering eyes you looked at her, “And what do I say to Sam?”
“That you’re doing your best, printcessa.”
The full moon shone above all of you, a cool breeze caressing you while the large bonfire warmed you simultaneously. There was singing all around you, the lyrics of pagan songs about the moon goddess provided sweet sounds in your ear. It calmed you almost as much as all the red win in your system.
There was a lot of dancing, even before the ceremony was to take place. Bucky sat alone on a tree stump watching as you and Yelena hopped together around the fire. Every now and again, she’d press her lips to yours, allowing you to taste the wine on her own lips.
The song was about dancing, dancing around the fire, spirits dancing, the moon goddess dancing, all under the moonlight, “Come,” Yelena suddenly grabbed your hand, dragging you around the circle and you were laughing until suddenly you were chest to chest with him. He grabbed your arms to steady you and you almost saw the hint of a grin on the evil Alpha’s lips, “My beautiful lovers. I could cry just looking at you.”
She joined you and Bucky’s hands together. The singing continued, this time a softer ballad about how the Moon Goddess gave each one of her creatures a soulmate. A lei of red flowers was placed over your head and a lei of white flowers was placed over him. A transfer of innocence. In your case, it was forcefully taken.
Everyone began to surround the two of you, red candles in each of their hands. “Alpha, take Y/N as your lawfully wedded mate. Be faithful to her in times of strife, bring children lovingly from the Goddess’s arms, and honor her for the rest of her life,” It was perfectly recited by every member, and soon, in the eyes of the Moon Goddess, the two of you were wed.
The celebrations began again and would most likely continue until the early hours of the morning. It was customary to cover the sounds of the bride and groom’s consummation. Bucky kept one of your hands in his and your other was quickly warmed again by Yelena’s as they led you back to the tent.
Bucky’s face was warm with color and you now knew that this is what he looked like when he was happy. He didn’t waste any time with you, burying his face above your scent gland, as he pulled the sleeves of your dress down. The fabric piled at your feet, leaving you completely exposed, but you weren’t frightened of it like before.
“Sit,” He told you and you slowly sat down on the bed, “Yelena.” The way he spoke her name was like dripping honey.
He did the same to her, undressing her slowly, but she had the honor of undressing him next. You watched them kiss and you couldn’t help but imagine her lips on yours, how softly possessive they were. Her hands wandered lower to his manhood, palming the large member. He grunted and he must’ve felt overwhelmed because his hand wrapped around her throat, allowing him more control.
When they finally pulled away, your legs were crossed over each other, your center beginning to ache. Bucky looked at you with so much hunger and you moved further back on the bed in an attempt to brace yourself. Yelena lingered beside the bed, taking her time to watch the two of you next.
As he crawled on top of you, you held out your hand, pressing against his chest to stop him, “Bucky, wait,” He was confused by your effort to touch him and only responded by pushing your hand away. He used all his strength to grab you by your hips and turn your body over. You gripped the sheets tightly and you could barely take in a deep breath before he was pushing into you.
His first movements were slow but deep, and you winced at every single one. You tried to keep your balance as you held yourself on all fours even as he began to pound into you. A calming hand ran across the length of your back before it began to play in your hair, “Slow, rodnoy,” She spoke to him, using a pet name in her native tongue, “You’ll break her before she has a chance to pleasure me.”
Bucky was still taking you from behind, this time slower, as she placed a kiss on your shoulder and then leaned down to kiss your cheek. She maneuvered herself in front of you, sitting as she spread her legs before you, “Kiss me here,” She told you, her voice calm and nurturing, “Touch me how you’d like to be touched.”
You did as she said, kissing her thighs and then above her sensitive center. You felt her shudder when you placed a kiss on her sensitive spot. She guided you more, telling you to make long strokes with tongue. You moaned against her, unable to control yourself, but this seemed to amuse her. She encouraged you to tease her, to slowly build things up and you tried your best despite the fact that you were orgasming. When you were finally focusing on her bulb, her legs began to shake, “Right there, don’t stop,” You tried not to change your pressure or your movement, sensing that her climax was near. She cradled your head in her hand, pressing you more into her as she grinded out her orgasm, “Mmmm, good girl.”
As she recovered, she got on her knees, lifting your body and allowing you to lean on her. Your lips met with her, her sweet flavor swirling between you. Bucky increased his pace and you held onto Yelena for support.
“Darling, let her look upon your face,” Yelena said to him gently, “Trust me.”
You thought you might collapse when he pulled out of you but Yelena was there to hold onto you. Her eyes were loving when your eyes connected again. She’d seen you at your most vulnerable but that made her like you more.
Bucky laid down on the bed, his hands caressing Yelena’s bottom but his eyes were on you. He’d be able to see all of you, truly, and that should’ve frightened you more than it did. You straddled Bucky and Yelena was the one to help guide you inside of him. It was much more intense when you were lowering yourself down at your own speed.
Bucky’s hands moved to your waist while you held onto his chest. It was almost too much, your senses felt completely invaded, but you remembered how Yelena told you that you could control your own pace.
You’re the girl of his dreams.
Yelena looked at you like you were the girl in hers. You slowly let him move in and out of you, your bulb grinding against his pelvis. The way he was looking at you, admiring your movements as much as your face and body, gave you a surge in confidence. You saw him grit his teeth and that made you move faster. You imagined the amount of pleasure he must be in and then your mind wandered to Yelena.
She noticed your worries, “Don’t worry about me. It’s your wedding night, he should be finishing inside of you,” As she said those words, Bucky suddenly grabbed her hips causing her to yelp. He forced her onto his face, grabbing ahold of her bottom and thighs as he took her into his mouth. Her yelp turned into a giggle and you found yourself smiling too.
You and Yelena orgasmed together and soon Bucky was spilling into you.
That night, the three of you were tucked in tightly to each other, Yelena laid against you and Bucky was big enough to hold you both.
One month later, you sat on top of the bathroom counter, watching curiously as Yelena brought scissors to Bucky’s hair. He was sitting on the edge of the bathtub, a pink towel wrapped around his neck that made him look silly.
“How’s it looking to you?” Yelena asked.
He looked very different but the haircut allowed for more of his face to show. In a way, it made him look less intimidating.
“I think you could go shorter.”
“No,” Bucky was quick to say. With both you and Yelena around to talk his ear off, it was no wonder that the man was learning to speak more.
“Hey, who’s the hair stylist here?” The grumpy wolf had no reaction, “I’m almost done, it won’t be too short. You have two beautiful women on your arm, you can’t look like caveman.”
A lot had changed in a month. Both Bucky and Yelena had gotten comfortable in the small cottage and Bucky’s plans to move south were delayed. Just as Sam was building his army, Bucky was doing the same. Unlike Sam, Bucky now had a real family which he was going to use to his advantage when trying to convince other packs to join him.
There wasn’t anything you could do to remove the mark on your neck. Perhaps you should’ve fought harder or laid your life down on the line. You hadn’t expected to fall for Yelena, and in turn, let her coax you into loving an unlovable man.
You worried what you would say to Sam. You didn’t want to hurt him but you didn’t want to hurt either. Things were easier when you accepted them. Hopefully he’d understand that.
“I like it,” You said to her, smiling wide.
Hopefully.
#dark!fic#dark fic#dark!bucky barnes#dark!yelena belova#bucky barnes x yelena belova#bucky barnes x reader#werewolf au#a/b/o fic#avengers a/b/o#black!reader#wilson!reader#sam wilson#Bucky Barnes#yelena belova#yelena belova x female reader#mcu smut#avengers smut#crackship#dany x drogo
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How To Eat Clean On A Budget
Eating clean on a budget is all about making smart, healthy choices when it comes to the food you buy and prepare. It doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming to eat clean and nourish your body. With a little planning and creativity, you can create delicious, wholesome meals that won’t break the bank. Here are some tips to help you eat clean on a budget:
Plan your meals in advance: One of the easiest ways to save money on is to plan your meals in advance. This way, you can make a grocery list of the ingredients you need and stick to it when shopping. Planning your meals also helps you avoid impulse purchases and prevent food waste.
Shop in bulk: Buying in bulk can save you money on certain items, such as grains, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. These items have a long shelf life and can be used in a variety of dishes, such as salads, soups, and grain bowls. Just be sure to store them properly to ensure they remain fresh.
Choose seasonal produce: In-season produce is typically cheaper and fresher than out-of-season produce. Plus, it tastes better too! Check out your local farmers market or sign up for a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program to get fresh, locally grown produce at a lower price.
Buy whole foods: Processed foods are often more expensive than whole foods. Choose whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes whenever possible. These foods are packed with nutrients and tend to be less expensive than their processed counterparts.
Use your freezer: Frozen fruits and vegetables are often just as nutritious as fresh produce and can be a more budget-friendly option. They’re also convenient to have on hand for quick and easy meals. Just be sure to choose products that are frozen without added sugar or sodium.
Don’t be afraid to save leftovers: If you cook in bulk, you’ll have leftovers that can be repurposed into new meals. For example, you can turn leftover grilled chicken into a salad or quesadilla, or use leftover roast vegetables in a frittata or grain bowl.
Get creative with your protein sources: There are plenty of affordable protein sources beyond just meat. Legumes, such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas, are high in protein and can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and veggie burgers. Nuts and seeds are also good sources of protein and can be added to oatmeal, yogurt, and smoothies.
Use spices and herbs: Adding spices and herbs to your meals can add flavor and nutrition without adding a lot of extra cost. Experiment with different spice blends and fresh herbs to give your dishes some extra pizzazz.
Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty: Instead of buying pre-cut and pre-washed produce, try buying whole fruits and vegetables and preparing them yourself. It may take a little extra time, but it can save you money in the long run.
Get creative with your meals: Eating clean doesn’t have to be boring. Try out new recipes and experiment with different ingredients to keep things interesting. You can also try meal prepping to make it easier to eat clean on a busy schedule.
By following these tips, you can eat clean and nourish your body without breaking the bank. Eating clean is all about making smart, healthy choices that support your overall well-being. With a little planning and creativity, you can create
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Whew... I was incredibly groggy when I wrote this but I promised myself I would jot down some goals for the new year. I honestly didn’t prepare much for the end of the year, and I’m making this list last minute without any forethought or planning, so I’m not really cutting anything cold turkey or “starting fresh,” but more trying to build into healthy habits as the year goes on. I tried to list concrete goals too so I have something tangible to aim for, but I know I won’t be hitting those right off the bat.
• For starters, I want to eat better. Start out by limiting sweets to once a day because I have a terrible addiction to them, and add in more whole fruits and vegetables and varied starches. Less fast food especially. I enjoy healthy foods, I just have a problem about forgetting about them and letting them go bad... Or going for the easy/quick food option instead of opting for the physical act of making something.
• Leading in from the last one, I need to start cooking. I don’t particularly enjoy it because, like the dishes, it involves standing over the counters in the kitchen, which is painful if done for more than a few minutes unless I’m binding and wearing shoes (which I have obstinate objections to doing in my own home even if it eases my pain). But I haven’t cooked anything in over a year and I’m feelin’ kind of guilty and useless about it. Maybe I’ll start out doing it infrequently and ease into it with box meals like hamburger helper, and maybe by the end of the year I’ll be cooking weekly meals with everyone else? Doing basic meal prep instead of buying freezer meals? My cooking skills are currently limited to following instructions on Kraft mac and cheese boxes so we’ll see how this one turns out. I’m anxious to learn how to cook. Not that I don’t have good teachers and the internet to help me, I just know I’m gonna forget something on the burner or forget to add something or otherwise be hindered by my impaired memory, and the fear of failure is strong.
• I need to drink more water, and less...everything else. I’m constantly drinking something but it’s never water. I think it’s my need for a constant steady stream of stimulation, and sweet flavored drinks satiate that need, but I really do need more water. Less soda and more tea at least (dear god we have so much tea in this house). Current goal is to manage chugging water at least once daily, and keep my water bottle on me when I’m at my desk so I can sip on it as a stim.
• I want to keep up with my daily routine and healthy habits better. Taking my medicine, brushing my teeth, skincare, etc. I’ve got an app that I’ve been using to help me, but as someone with literally no willpower and an inability to manufacture my own motivation for things that are not novel or don’t have a deadline rapidly approaching, I’m going to have trouble with this one.
• Exercising... I want to get started here but there’s just so much information out there on this subject. I think I want to do cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises. I live in an apartment complex with a Planet Fitness on the first floor, but my budget’s kinda tight, and I don’t really feel safe or confident walking city streets since people drive stupid around here and I don’t trust them. But coming up with varied exercise routines so I don’t stagnate and remembering names (and proper form) of different exercises will be my downfall. I don’t really have goals other than “be healthier than I currently am,” but losing fat and gaining muscle would be great. I hope I can figure out working out 3x weekly by the end of the year because I dunno how much cardio/lifting/stretching I need to do and in what amounts or on which days yet.
• Journaling. I’ve been doing it consistently since mid-December, writing down how I’m feeling and what I’m doing throughout the day, what I’ve eaten and who I’m with. My goal is to continue doing this. I’ve felt very compelled to write entries since I started, and the app I use has a tagging system to keep things organized. It’s becoming more natural to open my journal app when I’m idly thinking to myself and write it down, and I feel like having my thoughts to look back on will help with my memory maybe?
• In that vein, I want to plan better. I want to chart out periods of time to work on art and chores, setting achievable goals for me to complete daily/weekly/monthly. This requires me getting better at estimating how long it will take to do tasks, and improving my focus and willpower to get them done with minimal breaks and distractions (I may not see a lot of improvement in this area because of my brain funk, but I do want to try).
• I also want to share more of myself and not be such a recluse. Right now, I have personal accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Tumblr. I’m not an exceptionally talkative person, and I’m working on posting to those sites as a way to open up to others. I’m also hoping to make more of an effort this year to talk to people personally, like and comment on their work or photos or statuses, just socialize in general. I used to be much better about commenting and striking up conversation, but as my art kinda fell to the wayside because of my brain, so did my social life. Sometimes talking for me is like pulling teeth, and sometimes it’s enjoyable for me. Depends on the day really. But I’m trying to reach out and do more “unnecessary” things that I haven’t been doing because my brain holed itself up into only thinking about survival.
Art goals!
• This is the year I work through my owed art. I’m almost done with the project that has taken the longest.. Not that it’s given me problems per se, I just psyched myself out of working on it before I even started and developed a social media addiction fueled by my neurodivergency and just proceeded to do nothing of relevance for a few years because of it... I am recovering! I am working on it! Im hoping to finish the current project this month, and then finish my other two projects before summer starts. For 2014 me, this wouldn’t even be an ambitious goal, but 2022 me really struggled... it’s a soft deadline that I’m hoping will instill some urgency in me since I can’t find urgency in anything else.
• I’m also hoping to jump into giving Rou a real reference this year. I don’t expect to “finish” it because I’m a terrible monster and his ref is going to be several different parts (markings, hair, outfits, accessories, everyday items, palettes, etc), but I want to at least get a simple and complex markings reference down at least.
• I’m going to start making and sharing bad art. My instinct when I have a bad sketch is to erase it and draw a better one in its place. I want to work on sketching more, and keeping the sketches I don’t like instead of erasing and drawing over them. I’m going to work on allowing myself to create imperfect art, art that doesn’t have to be finished. Art that isn’t created for the end goal of a finished piece of work, but for the purpose of creation itself.
• Another goal is to learn more. Do more studies, watch more videos, learn how to use the tools at my disposal more efficiently. I don’t know how much new information I’ll retain, due to my aforementioned impaired memory, but art-related new information imprints on my brain more easily than most other new material so I’m going to be working on it this year. I’d like to work up to a small photo or reference study most days, but a more realistic goal looks closer to 2 days a week.
• For general art goals, I’m looking to start drawing once a week (since I’ve currently been managing like...once a month), with the goal of at least 3 days a week, working upward to 5 days a week when I’m feeling really ambitious. Nothing necessarily major, just at least a little warmup even if I’m not feeling up to intense work, to keep my mind active and flexible. This is going to be a lot easier now that I’ve got an iPad, but I’d like to to plenty of doodles and style experiments in my sketchbooks as well.
• I’m also going to work on looking at my own art in a different light. Right now, I feel like all my art is cringy and embarrassing, like people see it and they think I’m pretentious because I hold myself a certain way and my art doesn’t measure up. Or I feel like my art is just awkward-looking, like the poses are not quite natural, the variations in line thickness are not in aesthetically pleasing places, like I don’t use negative space and proportion well... I want to find a new perspective and try to see my art the way others see it, so I can gain awareness of the way I present myself as well.
2022 wasn’t really an awful year, looking back. I was the most financially stable I’ve ever been, and I felt like I didn’t have to panic about money for the first time in a while (I’ve got new car payments in 2023 so money will be a little tighter now...). Covid was the source of a lot of stress for me personally, but that wasn’t new of course; it just got worse because people stopped masking and started pretending the pandemic was over. And even though we lost our car, we were in good fortune enough to get another one in quick order (I’m very thankful for that). It could have been a lot worse. My family is all safe and doing well, I wake up under the same roof with some of the most important people in my life, my pets are all happy and healthy, and I have space to create and enjoy the things that make me happy. I hope the new year delivers the same to everyone else.
#personal#journal#new years#resolutions#goals#so get used to me crossposting from Twitter I guess#I know I’m oversharing but I don’t care#this is an oversharing-friendly zone
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Thess vs 'Rest Day’
I think we can safely file today under “A Mistake”.
Here’s the running of Things Wot I Have Done Today:
Woke up well before the alarm I set in case I heavily overslept, since I stayed up way later than I expected to (the hazards of Zen hyperfocus video games). Could not get back to sleep. Swore over that for awhile.
Watered the plants.
Took delivery of one out of two grocery deliveries I was expecting today. (Look, I know, okay? But you try living with my dietary restrictions; I can’t shop entirely at Tesco because their gluten-free pasta is shit and their gluten-free chocolate chip cookies are sub-par, and I can’t shop entirely at Sainsbury’s because their gluten-free range is not exactly stellar and a lot of things at Tesco’s are cheaper. So I split the difference.) This was the Tesco delivery, so it was actually relatively straightforward, and had all the ingredients for the peppermint patties I wanted to make this weekend.
Decided to use the time between deliveries to actually make the peppermint patties, or at least get them started. Trying to make any kind of dough - flour, sugar, or otherwise - in a small mixer is ... bad. Trying to make it with a hand mixer is worse, if you have chronic pain issues. Trying to make it entirely by hand ... well, put it this way - that was where I started and it was a BAD IDEA. So made of ow, and the non-mallet painkillers were in with the Sainsbury’s delivery. There was a lot of swearing, but eventually I got everything mixed, the patties cut, and the wonderful news that I can substitute vegetable oil for shortening when melting the chocolate so I don’t have to go out again.
Cleaned up the counters, vacuumed the kitchen, and washed everything up, because icing sugar in various states - from powdered to icing to dough - was more or less everywhere and I didn’t want it making things all sticky or attracting more insects than my plants already do. Also cleaned the fridge, and emptied the bathroom wastebin and the recycling, taking that downstairs.
Then immediately had more recycling when my order from Amazon arrived. So I have reusable canning jar lids (that don’t actually fit my mason jars but do fit my other jars so I can sterilise those and it should be fine) ... and I have gummy bear moulds. This is a good thing. Especially since they can also be used for resin trinkets and, in the case of the larger ones, home-made doggie treats. But mostly I’m looking forward to homemade gummy bears. I might make some wine-based ones for Mum, at about the same time as I’m making home-made doggie treats for my parentals’ beloved dog, Digby. (Poor Digby is not having a very good time of it. He’s been at the vet twice for thankfully low-grade tumours. He deserves a treat. So do the parentals, because they very much love their Digby and will be very sad when he dies. This has made me double down on not wanting a pet. I couldn’t afford the insurance and I sure as hell couldn’t afford the vet bills. If I ever get a pet again, it’s going to be, like, gerbils, or fish. Things that basically have very little setting between “healthy” and “dead”.)
Didn’t even have time to finish unwrapping the moulds before the Sainsbury’s delivery turned up. This was all my gummy bear-making stuff, and a lot of the staples - decent gluten-free pasta, various meats, and basically all of the frozen stuff. Which presented a problem because the freezer wasn’t exactly empty on account of a few blips in the menu budget in my favour (basically the three meals’ worth of curry because of dinner with Mum last weekend) and my mint patties are still in there hardening. Plus I really need to defrost the fucking thing but it’s never empty enough to do so because I freeze so much stuff - I have to because I live alone and things go bad otherwise. And I can barely manage mashing potatoes; how the hell well do you think I’d manage taking a knife or an ice pick to ice build-up? Anyway, cue Freezer Tetris as I tried to cram everything in. And I juuuuuuuust about managed. Thankfully there will be more space once I actually melt the chocolate, dip the patties, and move everything to the fridge.
Which meant I had to make sure there was a clear shelf in the fridge so I could put the damn things somewhere to cool afterwards. Cue Refrigerator Tetris. That was a little easier, since I had, as previously mentioned, cleared out the fridge. I’ll have more space in there after the chocolate has hardened and everything can just be shoved into a bag or something.
Then came the cupboard stuff. Now, the issue with my cupboards is that I am not what you would call tall, and reaching the upper shelves of them is a bitch. But I can’t afford to waste the space by not using it because it is not a large kitchen. So cue Cupboard Tetris on top of everything else. It needs to be a little tidier than it is, but at least it’s all pretty much put away.
I swear, every time I do something in the kitchen I think of something else I fucking need. This time? Some of those nice big sealed storage containers for pasta and stuff so I can clear some optimal cupboard space. Then again, I’d have to think of where the fuck I’d put it. I’m running out of counter space too. That’s the bane of most foodies, the tiny kitchen. The issue is that “tiny kitchen” feels like a design feature in most English houses, unless they’re relatively new or heavily remodelled. This place was built in the 70s, and thus the kitchen’s the approximate size of the bathroom. Ah well, I will do what I can with what I have.
What I have now, however, is a lot of pain. I am taking a bit of a break before I move on to melting chocolate and dipping peppermint patties. I should also ponder dinner - it’ll probably be the tuna broccoli pasta just because it’s relatively easy and I have the good gluten-free pasta now. But mostly because relatively easy, since I have to run a D&D session in four and a half hours.
Yahweh may have rested on the seventh day. I just get busier.
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hey so like, i hope this is okay to send? but feel free to ignore it if you don't want to answer. i hope this isn't tmi but recently my mom became a single mom and i've been trying to help out more as the oldest, and that includes meals from time to time. my mom usually doesn't have time / energy to try out new things(frozen meals is the usual) and we're definitely on a budget- i found your post from like. two years ago lmao, saying to message if anyone needed any recipes. i don't even follow you or know you but if you had any ideas for stuff i'd really appreciate it! currently we have a lot of beans but tbh take that with a grain of salt because we can totally go out and get other ingredients, its just a matter of 1. making sure it doesn't cost much and 2. her not having to go to the store super often. do you have anything in general you'd suggest? especially with the fact that i'm a beginner in mind? it's also worth mentioning my mom likes to keep a low amount of meat in the house(but it isn't off-limits, just preferred to not be in everything). i dunno it feels super silly but i don't even feel like i know where to start. thanks in advance!
absolutely it's okay to send!' i answered the best i could, but obviously there's SO much more to go into specifically, so please feel free to message me if you have specific questions
but for every meal, i think it's best to keep it simple: protein, carb, vegetable. everything else on top of that is just extra, but at the base, the meal should consist of that. now, breaking it down into those parts:
vegetables
-frozen vegetables - peas, carrots, corn. you can’t tell these even were frozen when you put them in a soup or a casserole
-potatoes are usually cheap, depending on where you are in the world especially russet potatoes, and they can be baked alongside any protein you make.
-this isn’t necessarily on a budget, but ready-to-mix salads are a great option if you’re looking for something healthy and also fast. but those can be a couple dollars a bag. if that’s not an option, a really good idea is buying spinach (it can last at least a week in the fridge if you keep it good and sealed), buy a favorite dressing, and eat that combo for an iron kick. not the most fun thing in the world, but it’s very nutritious. you can even throw a few croutons or dried fruit in there if you can. plus, spinach can be thrown into any canned pasta sauce you get for an extra vegetable - just let it simmer on the stove for a few minutes until the spinach breaks down and gets soft. it’s a pretty versatile green!
-onions are usually affordable and always elevate a dish - just buy the cheapest your grocery store has, and don’t worry if a recipe says a certain kind (like yellow onion vs. red onion). most of the time, in a pinch, it truly doesn’t matter. we’re not aiming for a michelin star here lol
-celery: you can wrap it in tin foil and it'll last a few weeks in the crisper drawer
protein
-you mentioned you have a lot of beans, which is great, because if you don’t want a lot of meat this will provide you with a lot of protein! some ideas are chili (with those frozen veggies), vegetable soup, tacos, simply just rice and beans... they're really versatile!
-chicken thighs, bone-in, is harder to eat but always cheaper. thighs in general are cheaper than chicken breasts, too. if you can swing it, ready-made rotisserie chickens at the grocery store are the easiest to work with - simply cut and serve with rice, pasta, salad... literally anything!
-somtimes you can find discount meats that are about to expire at the grocery store. your freezer is your friend in this case - buy on sale, then freeze for up to 3 months until needed
carb
-rice is THE cheapest carb and can be used with literally anything. there's a variety of rice, all have their own personality, but get whatever is cheapest - you won't notice the difference in recipes, generally
-bread is obviously yum for any dish, especially garlic bread with pasta - cut a baguette or any thick loaf in half and spread some butter and garlic powder on it before throwing it in the oven wrapped in some foil
-pasta pasta pasta!! buy any shapes or sizes. can work with hundreds of dishes
now for random recipes that you can google for the steps or improvise - they're hopefully not too crazy complicated! obviously not a complete list, but enough to hopefully inspire you. they can all be theoretically cooked in under an hour, too.
-chili, potato soup, any baked chicken dish with veggies + a carb, fried rice, pasta with marinara sauce from an jar + side salad, tacos, quesadillas, beans + rice.
-googling "cheap dinners in 30 minutes" will also get you a crazy amount of results!
in terms of grocery shopping, i'd look up the recipes in advance, then make a list. then you can substitute any veggie or protein you want depending on price.
i hope this helps!! good luck:) and feel free to message me again with any specific questions or if you want specific recipes!! i'd be happy to provide links/steps but i didn't want this ask to get too crazy long <3
#anon ask#answered ask#sorry this took so long to ask!!#i have a newborn and time is no longer linear
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food for thought
“Yeah, but he was kidding, right?”
“SAM. He wasn’t *actually* seriously yelling at you over it, was he?”
This was a few weeks ago, sitting next to my best friend* eating ice cream. (*I consider myself fortunate beyond measure to say that I actually have four people I consider my best friends. This one in particular is probably my longest-running best friend, for nearly 20 years.)
I had asked her about the food situation in her household, as her husband tries to eat a certain way to manage certain health considerations, and so does she. I (again, nonchalantly and almost humorously) brought up the time my husband had gotten angry with me about my cooking because he said it was “too good” and causing him to gain weight.
He wanted me to scale it back; to cook less or stop entirely and shift to freezer meals. “That’s how I lost all my weight in the first place,” he said. I was the primary grocery shopper; I told him I was not spending my grocery budget on freezer meals for him. If he wanted them so badly, he could buy his own. I also reminded him that he dished up his own plate and could simply choose a smaller portion, as most of the meals I cooked were at least fairly healthy.
I remember at one point I downloaded MyFitnessPal onto my phone and began recording my food as what I called “operation petty weight loss.” I wanted to prove a point that my food was NOT making him gain weight; he was doing that all on his own, because *I* could lose weight while eating my food. I tend to quickly devolve into disordered eating mindfuckery, though, usually in the form of exercise bulimia, so it did not last long. I have long since decided that being overweight is preferable to that whole game. I could not tell you what I weigh or anywhere near an accurate estimate of how many calories I’ve eaten today.
I am a good cook and legitimately enjoy cooking. I can cook a wide variety of ethnic meals, homestyle American classic type meals, things I don’t know how to define other than “weird stuff,” and everything in between. I’ve made my own salad dressings and granola. I’m very creative. I’m also a veteran at gluten-free food (I officially made the switch NINE years ago today, on 06-17-2013); I can bake almost anything and have it turn out as good as something made with wheat flour.
I haven’t cooked at all really since I moved 3 weeks ago. I mean, sure; I’ll heat up a box kit in a pot and add my own protein and maybe a handful of spinach to it. But I have not cooked anything from scratch in a long time. I’ve also been doing more takeout and delivery options, in part because I moved to an area where I have many, many more options than I did before.
I brought this up in therapy yesterday, explaining that I just don’t have the brain space for cooking right now. “But I’ll get it back,” I said. And surprised myself when I started crying talking about it. My therapist asked me why I was crying, and I couldn’t give a straight answer in the moment.
But now I know it is because this is a hobby I enjoy and excel at. I've worked at it, to be a good cook; I consider it a skill. And he robbed me of my joy of cooking, of my satisfaction in a job well done. He didn’t like how his choice (in this case, to overeat) affected him, so he made it my fault. Like he did so many things.
He took so much from me, and it’s gonna take me a while to get it back.
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12 techniques to cut costs when shopping at the supermarket
Want to save money on food purchases while maintaining a healthy diet? To enhance your budget and shopping cart, try these strategies.
1. Make a plan
Make a rigorous shopping list and a plan for the week's healthy meals. People who make a list are three times less likely to overspend than those who don't, according to the Money Advice Service. Try Bosh, Good Housekeeping, or BBC Good Food if you need some inspiration. Planning ahead is essential as we spend more money when we buy food on a daily basis than if we plan and shop once a week, with a minor top-up if needed many business listings.
2. Combine it
To avoid boredom and the desire to order takeout, make sure your meals are varied and, whenever possible, include nutritious and healthy ingredients.
3. Do not waste
Making the most of your freezer may be essential for success. For affordable fruit and veggies, search the frozen section. These items are frequently less expensive than fresh or canned counterparts. In the same way, if you do purchase fresh vegetables, think about freezing part of it. By doing this, waste will be prevented, and certain vitamins and minerals that would otherwise be lost would be preserved business listings.
4. Be modestly smart
Price comparison websites can assist you in purchasing your goods from the cheapest retailer if you are fortunate to have a selection of supermarkets nearby or can shop online and have some time. Always be on the lookout for deals on non-perishable items like chopped tomatoes or laundry detergent.
5. Eat before leaving
It has been established that when you shop when you're hungry, you run the danger of spending up to 64% more on food than you would have if you'd eaten earlier. So, eat something before you leave the house to prevent any impulsive purchases and to stay on course. If you must visit the store when you are hungry, be aware that you will likely be tempted to buy more unhealthy items.
6. Labels are not always accurate
On the shelf, the best-value item isn't always immediately apparent. Always compare product prices by unit. It can be tempting to choose the things that seem to be less expensive when they are available, but you can be falling for a trap. In order to get the most value for your money, it is usually preferable to compare a product's price to the units or measurements specified on the box. An item that appears more expensive may actually be less expensive gram per gram free business listings.
7. Locate vouchers
If you frequently shop at one particular supermarket, don't forget to bring your loyalty card and any gift cards you may have earned. In addition to ideas on lowering the cost of your purchases, MoneySavingExpert.com is a great resource for finding the most recent coupons and discounts. Services like Top Cashback also provide cash back when you shop online with them.
8. Bring your own bags
Reusing shopping bags not only helps the environment, but it's also good for your pocket. Purchasing a few truly durable bags may pay off for you in other ways as well, especially if it enables you to carry groceries home rather than using the car.
9. Plan your journey
Smart consumers are aware of the appearance dates for the yellow price reduction labels. These signify products that are either going to expire or have been damaged just a little bit too much to sell for their full price. Although Moneysaving Expert offers a useful guide, different supermarkets have different ideal times to take advantage of these deals. But don't be misled by these offerings. While healthier items must be sought out elsewhere, the discount session frequently favours processed or dairy-heavy products.
10. Look for less expensive options
Even while you could convince yourself that a branded product is superior or more delicious than the store's low-cost alternative, there often isn't much of a difference. Look close for less costly variants and check if you can taste the difference because the well-known brands and more expensive varieties will be at eye level. But don't automatically assume that the brands will cost more.
11. Be cautious while choosing dates
The products that have the longest shelf lives will be placed beneath or behind those that are about to expire. You can locate food you can enjoy for longer if you dig around When you get home, move things that are about to expire to the front of the fridge's shelves to remind you to eat them before they go bad (especially those with a "use by" stamp). Try to cook any food that is going to spoil while it is still fresh; soups and stews are great for extending the shelf life of vegetables.
12. Monitor your spending
Certain people tally their purchases as they go, and some shops include tools to make this easier (scan and shop). If you discover that you frequently over your food budget try taking a month-long perspective by retaining receipts and keeping track of top-up shopping visits. If you and a partner split the responsibility for food shopping, be sure you're communicating well to prevent wasteful duplication.
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Enhancing Your Grocery Shopping Experience: Tips for Smart, Efficient, and Budget-Friendly Trips
Introduction:
Grocery shopping is a routine task for most people, but it's also an opportunity to make smart choices that benefit your health, budget, and the environment. Whether you're a seasoned shopper or just starting to take control of your food purchases, mastering the art of grocery shopping can lead to significant savings and satisfaction. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore strategies and tips to help you navigate the aisles of your local grocery shop with confidence and efficiency.
Understanding Your Needs:
Before heading to the grocery store, it's essential to assess your needs and create a shopping list. Take inventory of your pantry, fridge, and freezer to identify what items you already have and what you need to replenish. Consider planning meals for the week ahead to ensure you purchase the necessary ingredients.
Creating a detailed shopping list not only saves time but also helps prevent impulse purchases and reduces the risk of forgetting essential items. Organize your list by categories such as produce, dairy, proteins, grains, and snacks to streamline your shopping experience.
Navigating the Aisles: Once inside the grocery shop, it's easy to become overwhelmed by the array of choices available. However, with a well-planned list in hand, you can navigate the aisles efficiently and stay focused on your priorities.
Start with the perimeter of the store, where you'll typically find fresh produce, meats, dairy products, and bread. These whole foods are often the cornerstone of a healthy diet and should form the basis of your shopping cart. Opt for a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables to ensure you're getting a diverse range of nutrients.
When selecting packaged goods from the inner aisles, be mindful of reading labels and choosing products with minimal additives and preservatives. Compare prices and consider opting for store brands or generic equivalents to save money without sacrificing quality.
Making Healthy Choices:
Incorporating nutritious foods into your grocery haul is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. Look for whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread to provide sustained energy and dietary fiber. Choose lean proteins like chicken, fish, tofu, and legumes to support muscle growth and repair.
Limiting processed foods high in sugar, sodium, and unhealthy fats is crucial for preventing chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Opt for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugars and select unsalted nuts and seeds for a nutritious snack option.
Additionally, don't forget to hydrate by stocking up on water and choosing beverages like herbal tea or sparkling water over sugary sodas and fruit juices.
Stretching Your Dollar: Grocery shopping on a budget doesn't have to mean sacrificing quality or nutrition. With a few savvy strategies, you can stretch your dollar and make the most of your shopping trip.
First, take advantage of sales, discounts, and coupons to save money on staple items and household essentials. Many grocery stores offer loyalty programs or digital coupons that can lead to significant savings over time.
Consider buying in bulk for items you use frequently, such as grains, beans, and frozen vegetables. Purchasing larger quantities often results in a lower cost per unit and reduces the need for frequent trips to the store.
Another way to save money is by planning meals around seasonal produce, which tends to be more abundant and affordable. Visit local farmers' markets or participate in community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs to access fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables at competitive prices.
Reducing Food Waste: One often overlooked aspect of grocery shopping is minimizing food waste. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, approximately one-third of all food produced globally is lost or wasted each year.
To combat food waste, shop with a mindset of buying only what you need and will use before it spoils. Choose perishable items with a longer shelf life, such as root vegetables, cabbage, and citrus fruits, and plan meals that incorporate leftovers to prevent them from going to waste.
Properly storing perishable items in the fridge or freezer can also extend their freshness and reduce spoilage. Invest in reusable storage containers and utilize meal-prep techniques to portion out servings and streamline mealtime during busy weekdays.
Embracing Sustainable Practices:
In addition to reducing food waste, adopting sustainable shopping habits can have a positive impact on the environment. Bring reusable bags to the grocery store to reduce plastic waste and opt for products with minimal packaging whenever possible.
Choose items with eco-friendly certifications such as USDA Organic, Fair Trade, or Rainforest Alliance to support ethical and environmentally responsible farming practices. Look for locally sourced products to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation and support your community's economy.
Consider purchasing items in bulk or investing in refillable containers for pantry staples like grains, spices, and cooking oils to minimize packaging waste. And don't forget to recycle or compost any packaging or food scraps to further reduce your environmental impact.
Conclusion:
Grocery shopping is more than just a chore—it's an opportunity to make informed choices that benefit your health, budget, and the planet. By understanding your needs, navigating the aisles strategically, making healthy choices, stretching your dollar, reducing food waste, and embracing sustainable practices, you can transform your grocery shopping experience into a fulfilling and rewarding endeavor. With these tips in mind, you'll be well-equipped to tackle your next trip to the grocery shop with confidence and efficiency.
If you are looking for a grocery shop near you please visit our site https://justsearchme.com/
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Mastering Meal Prep: A Guide to Efficient, Healthy Eating
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding time to cook healthy meals can be a challenge. However, with a little bit of planning and preparation, it's possible to enjoy nutritious, homemade meals throughout the week without spending hours in the kitchen each day. This is where meal prepping comes in—a technique that has gained immense popularity for its time-saving benefits and promotion of healthier eating habits.letsmealprep
What is Meal Prep?
Meal prep, short for meal preparation, is the process of planning and preparing meals in advance. This typically involves cooking large batches of food and dividing them into individual portions to be enjoyed throughout the week. Whether you're a busy professional, a parent on-the-go, or simply looking to eat healthier, meal prep can streamline your week and make sticking to a nutritious diet much easier.
Benefits of Meal Prep
The benefits of meal prep go beyond just saving time. Here are some compelling reasons to consider incorporating meal prep into your routine:
Saves Time: One of the most significant advantages of meal prep is the time it saves during busy weekdays. By dedicating a few hours on the weekend to prepare meals, you eliminate the need to cook every day. Simply grab a pre-portioned meal from the fridge or freezer, reheat, and enjoy.
Promotes Healthy Eating: When healthy, homemade meals are readily available, you're less likely to opt for fast food or unhealthy takeout options. Meal prep allows you to control the ingredients, portion sizes, and nutritional content of your meals, helping you make healthier choices.
Reduces Food Waste: Planning meals in advance means you're less likely to buy groceries you won't use. Additionally, by cooking in bulk, you can use up ingredients before they spoil, reducing food waste and saving money in the process.
Budget-Friendly: Eating out frequently can take a toll on your wallet. Meal prep, on the other hand, can be much more cost-effective. Buying ingredients in bulk, cooking in batches, and utilizing seasonal produce can help you stick to a budget while enjoying delicious meals.
Customizable and Varied: Meal prep doesn't mean eating the same meal every day. You can prepare a variety of dishes and mix and match components to create different meals throughout the week. This keeps things interesting and prevents mealtime boredom.
Getting Started with Meal Prep
Ready to embark on your meal prep journey? Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Plan Your Meals: Start by deciding which meals you want to prep for the week. This could include breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks. Consider your schedule and choose recipes that are practical and appealing.
Create a Shopping List: Once you've selected your recipes, make a shopping list of all the ingredients you'll need. Check your pantry and fridge to see what you already have on hand to avoid unnecessary purchases.
Batch Cooking: On a designated day, set aside time to cook in bulk. Choose recipes that can easily be scaled up and cooked in large quantities. This could include dishes like soups, stews, casseroles, roasted vegetables, and grains.
Portion and Store: After cooking, divide the food into individual portions using meal prep containers. Invest in a set of quality containers that are microwave-safe and freezer-friendly. Label each container with the name of the dish and the date it was prepared.
Storage Tips: Store meals in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for longer-term storage. When reheating, ensure that food reaches a safe internal temperature to prevent foodborne illness.
Variety is Key: To prevent meal fatigue, prepare a variety of dishes and components. For example, roast a variety of vegetables, cook different proteins (chicken, beef, tofu), and prepare a couple of different grain options (rice, quinoa, pasta).
Stay Organized: Keep your meal prep containers organized in the fridge or freezer, making it easy to grab a meal when needed. Consider using a meal prep planner or calendar to keep track of what meals you have available each day.
Meal Prep Recipe Ideas
Need some inspiration to kickstart your meal prep journey? Here are a few simple and delicious recipe ideas to get you started:
Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables: Toss chicken breast, bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil and seasonings. Roast on a sheet pan until cooked through. Divide into portions and serve with rice or quinoa.
Quinoa Salad Jars: Layer cooked quinoa with a variety of vegetables such as cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers. Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for protein. Dress with a lemon vinaigrette and store in jars for easy grab-and-go lunches.
Vegetarian Chili: Prepare a hearty vegetarian chili loaded with beans, tomatoes, corn, and spices. Portion into containers and freeze for a comforting meal on busy days.
Overnight Oats: Mix rolled oats with milk (or a dairy-free alternative), yogurt, and your favorite toppings such as berries, nuts, and honey. Store in individual jars in the fridge for ready-to-eat breakfasts.
Stir-Fry Freezer Packs: Assemble stir-fry freezer packs with sliced chicken or tofu, mixed vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. When ready to eat, simply stir-fry in a pan and serve over rice or noodles.
Conclusion
Meal prep is a game-changer when it comes to eating well-balanced, nutritious meals while saving time and money. By dedicating a few hours each week to planning, shopping, and cooking, you can set yourself up for success and make healthy eating a breeze. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned meal prep pro, the key is to find a routine and recipes that work for you. With a bit of practice and creativity, you'll soon be mastering the art of meal prep and enjoying the benefits of delicious, homemade meals every day.
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Household Tasks in Brisbane
Household tasks are the everyday chores you do to keep your home clean and comfortable. These include cooking, laundry, shopping, and maintenance.
Several services and organisations offer assistance with household tasks Brisbane. These providers can be found through local councils, community centres, and online directories. They can provide flexible options based on your needs and preferences. To know more about Household Tasks Brisbane, visit the Maximum Support Services website or call 1300983885.
Cleaning is an essential task for every household. It involves the tidying up of bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens. It also includes vacuuming, mopping floors, and dusting. Cleaning services may include specialised tasks such as carpet cleaning and upholstery cleaning.
Individuals who need assistance with household chores can seek out local home care agencies, community centres, and NDIS representative to explore options for support. They can also consult online directories and support service databases for information.
NDIS participants can also receive assistance with household chores through their individualized support plans. This way, they can live more independently and enjoy their time at home. They can also stay healthy and active while achieving their independence goals.
Meal preparation is the process of preparing entire meals in advance. It involves planning, cooking and storing food for later consumption. Meals are often prepared in bulk and stored in airtight containers in the fridge or freezer until they’re ready to eat.
Meal prep is a tedious chore that demands significant time and effort. In addition, it requires specialised skill and knowledge to craft nutritious meals that meet specific health goals. For this reason, meal prep services offer a more convenient, cost-effective alternative to the DIY approach. Many Brisbane meal delivery services provide a diverse menu selection with a strong focus on nutritional value. These services are ideal for busy professionals and health-conscious individuals. Some even offer kid-friendly options to pacify fussy eaters. Youfoodz, Nourish’d Meal Co and Dietlicious are among the many popular meal delivery services in Brisbane.
Laundry is a household chore that requires time and effort. But fortunately, laundry services in Brisbane are available to help individuals save time and energy while enjoying a stress-free lifestyle. These services provide professional cleaning, convenient pickup and drop-off options, and fast turnaround times.
When choosing a laundry service, look for a provider with competitive pricing and service packages that align with your budget. Also, consider the company’s reputation and customer reviews. Lastly, be sure to clearly communicate your laundry preferences (such as detergent types and folding preferences) to ensure an optimal service experience.
Wholesome laundry services use eco-friendly practices to minimize their water and energy consumption, ensuring that your clothes are cleaned safely while being mindful of the environment. This means you can enjoy a hassle-free household without sacrificing your health or the quality of your clothes.
Shopping is a favourite pastime in Brisbane. The city is full of shopping hotspots that are a welcome break from the sterility of the big malls in the suburbs. One local favourite is Bulimba's Oxford Street, a quirky destination with chic homeware stores, fashion boutiques and plenty of cafes and restaurants.
The trendy Paddington suburb is another popular spot for unique shops. Its quaint streets, Given Terrace and Latrobe Terrace, are lined with antique shops, books, art, and one-of-a-kind clothing designs.
Op shops are also tried and tested stomping grounds for bargain hunters in Brisbane, where you can bag designer clothing, shoes and accessories for a fraction of the retail price. Many op shops also donate their proceeds to charity, so you're helping out the community while you score a bargain.
A clean and well-maintained home is a crucial component of overall wellbeing. However, for some people with disabilities, household tasks can be challenging. This is why the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides home support services that include household tasks as part of an individualized plan. These home care services can include support for daily chores such as cleaning, cooking, laundry, and shopping. To know more about Household Tasks Brisbane, visit the Maximum Support Services website or call 1300983885.
If you’re a participant of the NDIS and are looking for reliable NDIS providers who can provide household task support, Almond Care can help. We have a team of qualified and compassionate home support workers who can assist you with a wide range of domestic duties, all in the comfort of your own home. We can also help you train to perform these tasks independently over time.
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Beat the cold: The fun world of frozen broccoli – combinations and benefits
The unsung hero of the freezer aisle, frozen broccoli is more than just a convenient option. It is a source of nutrition that enriches your cooking experience. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking for an easy option, or someone looking for a versatile and healthy addition to your meals, frozen broccoli is the perfect choice for you. Perfect for. Discover the delicious combinations and health benefits that make frozen broccoli an freezer essential. Farzana Vegetables Wholesale Distributor UAE provides fresh broccoli to your doorsteps.
1. Green Gems in the Freezer:
Frozen broccoli retains its nutritional value very well, making it a reliable source of important vitamins and minerals. Rich in fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and other antioxidants, this frozen vegetable offers a variety of health benefits.
2. Combining convenience and nutrition:
The convenience of frozen broccoli cannot be overstated. It's a time-saving solution on busy days and allows you to always have nutritious options on hand. No worries about corruption. Just take the bag out of the freezer and enjoy a quick and healthy meal.
3. Stir-fry sensation:
One of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy frozen broccoli is to stir-fry it. Pair it with your favorite protein, like chicken, shrimp, tofu, or beef, and add colorful peppers, carrots, and flavorful sauces. result? A delicious and nutritious dish that can be prepared in just a few minutes.
4. Dynamic Duo: Frozen Broccoli and Pasta:
Frozen broccoli and pasta are a match made in heaven. Whether you prefer classic spaghetti, whole-wheat penne, or a gluten-free option, add some blanched frozen broccoli to add color, texture, and nutrients. Add some olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of Parmesan cheese for a simple yet satisfying meal.
5. Reinventing soups and stews:
Spruce up your soups and stews with a handful of frozen broccoli. Not only does it add a bright green hue to your dishes, it's also packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Whether it's a hearty vegetable soup or a creamy broccoli cheddar creation, the possibilities are as endless as your culinary imagination.
6. Crunchy snacks:
Roasted frozen broccoli is a delicious and nutritious snack that will satisfy your crunchy cravings. Simply mix frozen florets with olive oil, salt, and your favorite spices, then bake until golden brown. result? Crunchy and flavorful, broccoli makes a guilt-free snack.
7. Rich health benefits:
Convenience and versatility aren't the only benefits of incorporating frozen broccoli into your diet. Rich in dietary fiber, it supports digestive health, and its vitamin C content strengthens the immune system. The antioxidants it contains contribute to general health, promote skin health, and fight oxidative stress.
8. Budget-friendly shine:
Frozen broccoli is not only nutritious but also a budget-friendly option. It has a longer shelf life than fresh broccoli, so you create less waste and enjoy the benefits without breaking your budget.
Versatile, convenient, and nutritious, frozen broccoli is a culinary ally worth having in every freezer. From stir-fries to soups, snacks to side dishes, the possibilities are endless. Beat the cold and enjoy healthy and delicious frozen broccoli by adding it to your cooking repertoire.
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Fridge Rescue 101: How to Troubleshoot and Repair Common Issues
Refrigerators are a crucial component in our home appliance set up. In the present hustle where our healthy food habits are dependent on the meal preps we can’t imagine a day without a refrigerator. A broken refrigerator might mean stale food, heated beverages, spoiled milk or even a pool of water due to excessive melting of ice. Thus, the blog aims to discuss the basics of refrigerator troubleshooting. We will also guide you when to know that it is time to call the nearby fridge repair service.
Basic Troubleshooting Step
· Let go off the panic and ensure that your fridge is pluged in. There are chances to miss this after a routine cleaning.
· Approach the back of your fridge to make sure that the coils are clean and nothing is caught.
· In case of an issue with the ice maker or water dispenser try replacing the water filter. Also, check for any jamming caused due to excessive ice in the dispenser.
· Make sure none of the contents of your refrigerator are blocking the air ducts. This can affect the temperature and make it seem like your fridge is broken.
· If you’re wondering about a broken ice maker, make sure to check it is on before you reach out to a fridge repair service provider.
Also bear in mind not all the issues require the complete replacement of the refrigerator. Common issues can be resolved at a lower budget.
Common Issues and Ways to Resolve Them
The Refrigerator Isn’t Cooling
An affected refrigerator cooling may be a sign that you need to replace the evaporator fan. This can also be categorized by a squealing or loud humming sound. For confirmation open the door of your freezer and if the sound gets louder, you’ve got the nerve. The evaporator coils and fan can be found behind a cover in the freezer compartment.
· If you open the cover and the coils are covered in frost, take them out of the freezer, unplug the fridge and let it sit for 48 hours.
· Once the ice from the coils melts, put them back in and turn on the fridge. If the noise goes away, your fridge is temporarily repaired. However, you will probably need to call a fridge repair service provider to fix the problem permanently.
· If you still hear the noise, it’s time to replace the evaporator fan, so reach out to some fridge repair service providing company.
Blocked or Defrost Drain
The most common refrigerator repair issue is a leaking fridge. It is always unpleasant to find a puddle of water in your kitchen. The good point is it is very easy to fix a leaky fridge yourself. There can primarily be two reasons of a leaky fridge:
Blocked Defrost Drain
This is one of the most common causes of a leaking refrigerator. Food, melted ice and other debris can clog the defrost drain hose. This causes the ice to build up ultimately resulting in draining water. The issue can be addressed by following the given steps:
· Unplug the fridge.
· Flush the clogged drain from inside the freezer with warm water using a funnel.
· Clean a clothes hanger or a pipe cleaner to clean out any left off debris.
· If the issue persists you need to tackle the rubber valve at the end of the drain hose. The drain hose is found on the bottom back service panel.
· Clean the valve out with warm water and a little bit of soap. Remove any visible debris.
· Plug back to check if the refrigerator is working. If it’s still not working, it is time to reach out to a local fridge repair service provider.
Clogged or Frozen Water Supply Line
Sometimes a clogged or frozen water supply line can also result in a puddle around your refrigerator. It can affect the working of the ice maker and the dispenser. If you are facing these problems here is the solution. Follow the steps:
· Unplug the refrigerator and look for the shut-off valve. It is usually found underneath your sink, behind the fridge or underneath the fridge.
· The next step is to check that the shut off valve is closed. Also check for any leaks, tears or clogs in the shut off valve.
· In case of a tear, the water supply line needs to be replaced. If there are no tears, there may be some blockage in the tube.
· To clear blockage, keep your refrigerator turned off for two hours to defrost the buildup. Also clean any leftover debris using a pipe cleaner and you are done.
· Plug in your fridge back and test if it is working again. If you still face any issue call for a fridge repair service provider.
Hire a Refrigerator Service Provider Now
So as the blog guides you can solve the majority of your refrigerator issues easily. But, it is always advisable to call for a professional’s help when needed. Also, be sure you choose the right refrigerator service provider to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your refrigerator. Bharat Services is one such fridge repair service provider who works on the principle of customer satisfaction. So, get rid of the noise from the fridge or a kitchen puddle and contact Bharat Services now.
Author’s Bio
The blog has been authored by the content writers of Bharat Services. We are professional appliance repair service providers. We have expertise and 25+ years of experience in appliance repair, maintenance, and services, across the city of Jaipur. With our team of skilled technicians, we are dedicated to resolving all your repair needs promptly and efficiently. Whether it's your home appliances, electronics, or gadgets, we've got you back. So, do not sustain with broken appliances and contact Bharat Services now.
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