Podcasts about Chrysanthemum

Welcome to Season 5, Episode 19! Health and wellbeing are so important to people who want to live a more productive and fulfilling life. So it's such a thrill that today's guest is Michelle Jungmin Bang who is an award-winning eco-entrepreneur, Chivas Venture Social Impact Fellow, and Harvard Business School graduate who spent 16 years living in Asia as a Korean-American from New York City. She is the author of the recently published Sun & Ssukgat, a wellness guide covering her research, interviews, and personal eco-conscious journey in writing about centuries-old well-being traditions she learned about during her time throughout Asia in general and Korea specifically. Ssukgat, or Chrysanthemum greens, are treasured in Korean culture for their healing abilities. In our conversation, Michelle shares some of the healthy habits of Koreans and Asians that are helping them not just live longer, but thrive in the years that many would consider more advanced. She also talks about her own personal journey, some tips for helping us all be more mindful and slow down, and so many other things. Sun & Ssukgat is a great book that's a blend of memoir, recipes, self-help, research, and more. You can find places to buy Sun & Ssukgat on Michelle's website. You can also follow Michelle on Instagram or subscribe to her Substack.  If you like what we do, please share, follow, and like us in your podcast directory of choice or on Instagram @AAHistory101. For previous episodes and resources, please visit our site at https://asianamericanhistory101.libsyn.com or our links at http://castpie.com/AAHistory101. If you have any questions, comments or suggestions, email us at info@aahistory101.com.

A little mouse learns to love her name, regardless of what others think.

A little mouse has mixed feelings about her name.

Flavor Odyssey is back! This season, we're discovering the perfect drink pairings for every cigar in The Dojo's Cigar of the Year Sampler. This week, Robby and Randy feature the No. 19 COTY—the Black Works Studio Paper Crane. Wrapped in a stunning Ecuadorian Connecticut Desflorado leaf, this cigar promises an intriguing pairing experience. Grab a Paper Crane, pour a drink, and join the show! Pairings Randy: Paper Crane cocktail & BLK WKS Paper Crane

Today the guys discuss the Steel Crysanthemum. With information about the history and lore, a thorough discussion is had talking about setting your campaign in this part of the timeline.    "Segment break audio was extracted from:  Ripples – Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/"

Lyndsay and Shannon welcome Brian Kanotz from Kings Mums. Brian, with over 20 years of professional growing experience, shares his journey from childhood farming to owning Kings Mums with his wife, Sheila. The discussion covers the challenges and transformations within the floral industry, emphasizing the importance of adapting growing techniques to different climates and the value of heirloom plants. Lyndsay and Shannon resonate with Brian's insights, sharing their own farming experiences and the impact of weather on crops, providing inspiration and practical strategies for growers.Learn more about todays guest: Website, Facebook, InstagramIf you want to dive in deeper with us each month, join our membership group - The Dirt on Flowers Insiders! So if you love the podcast and want to dig deeper with us, head over to www.thedirtonflowers.com/membership to join now. Did you love today's episode? Take a screenshot and share it in your IG stories. Don't forget to tag @dirtonflowers!Leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts!Head to www.thedirtonflowers.com to sign up for our newsletter and become a Dirt on Flowers insider!Want to learn more about your hosts? Follow us on Instagram!Lyndsay @wildroot_flowercoShannon @bloomhillfarm

In this edition of DIG IT Peter Brown and Chris Day chat with horticultural journalist, garden designer and broadcaster Naomi Slade. Naomi's latest book, Chrysanthemum: Beautiful Varieties from Home and Garden, is a celebration of the ever so versatile Chrysanthemum. On the podcast we discover more about Naomi's garden design journey, plus great advice on planting and her love of plants, including some recommendations for winter interest.Plants mentioned: Apples, Cyclamen Florist types, Chrysanthemums, Dahlias, Daffodils, Elodea (Canadian Pondweed – now banned from sale), Herbs, Helleborus, Hardy Cyclamen Coum and C Hederifolium, Snowdrops (including Galanthus reginae-olgae 'Naomi Slade' (Monksilver Nursery), Rhubarb, Roses, Paeonies, Plums, Prunus subhirtella autumnalis (winter flowering cherry), Wild Strawberries, Tulips, consider more vigorous rootstocks in difficult soils when growing fruit trees. The aptly named Cottage Chrysanthemums range are reliable and hardy as are the varieties ‘Ruby Mound' and ‘Dulwich Pink' (RHS AGM).Scented winter plants: Sarcococca, Viburnum bodnantense, Snowdrops, Lonicera fragrantissima, Mahonia and Hamamelis (Witch Hazel). People, products mentioned: Sir David Attenborough, Gerald Durrell, photographer Georgianna Lane, Piet Oudolf, Sarah Raven and Halls of Heddon. Which Gardening, Garden News, Water Butts, Old bread knife for dividing perennial clumps in the spring.National Collection of Chrysanthemums: Norwell Nurseries and Gardens, Nottinghamshire.Show gardens mentioned: 'Never Mind The Hollyhocks' Award Winning punk-themed conceptual garden by Naomi Slade at RHS Hampton Court 2012 and The Flood Resilient Garden in conjunction with Dr Ed Barsley. Silver Medal Winner at RHS Chelsea 2024.Desert Island luxuries: Naomi's tool would be her trusted bread knife and an apple tree, maybe a ‘Bramley', would be her island tree of choice.To find out more about Naomi and her books visit her websiteOur thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Halloween, da diversi anni, viene festeggiato anche in Italia. In questo episodio scoprirete che in alcune feste tradizionali italiane venivano già usate

John Capobianco is President of the Long Island Chrysanthemum Society, host of the 69th Annual Long Island Chrysanthemum Show Saturday, November 2 and Sunday, November 3 in Farmingdale, Long Island. John has a wealth of knowledge about mums and bonsai, as he's also active with the Bonsai Society of Greater New York, and taught the art of bonsai at the New York Botanical Gardens for 20 years. For more, visit http://www.limums.org and bsgny.com.

Scott Joplin - The ChrysanthemumBenjamin Loeb, pianoMore info about today's track: Naxos 8.559277Courtesy of Naxos of America Inc.SubscribeYou can subscribe to this podcast in Apple Podcasts, or by using the Daily Download podcast RSS feed.Purchase this recordingAmazon

Chrys and Mouse scout out a good place to leave Claus for the adventure. In the meantime... Someone has pegged Chrys as the shadowy leader of Caldera. Perhaps some familiar faces will be dispatched to investigate.

Zammit is a professor of Horticulture and Environmental Studies at Niagara College.

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Chrysanthemum Reverie: A Day of Friendship and Reflection Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/chrysanthemum-reverie-a-day-of-friendship-and-reflection Story Transcript:Ja: 新宿御苑は秋の訪れを感じさせる場所です。En: Shinjuku Gyoen is a place where you can feel the arrival of autumn.Ja: 色とりどりの菊が咲き乱れ、澄んだ秋の空気が気持ちをリフレッシュさせてくれます。En: Colorful chrysanthemums are in full bloom, and the crisp autumn air refreshes the spirit.Ja: 笑い声やお祭りの音楽が遠くから響いてきます。En: Laughter and festival music can be heard in the distance.Ja: この日は菊祭りの真っ最中で、たくさんの人々が集まっています。En: Today is the peak of the Chrysanthemum Festival, and many people have gathered.Ja: 愛子、春人、そして新しい友達の芽依は一緒にピクニックをすることにしました。En: Aiko, Haruto, and their new friend Mei decided to have a picnic together.Ja: 愛子はいつも勉強を優先します。En: Aiko always prioritizes her studies.Ja: 彼女は真面目で、なかなか休むことを知りません。En: She is serious and doesn't easily allow herself to rest.Ja: しかし、今日は特別な日です。En: However, today is a special day.Ja: 春人はいつも通りにリラックスしており、芽依は少し緊張しながらも、新しい友達を作りたいと願っています。En: Haruto, as usual, is relaxed, while Mei is a bit nervous but eager to make new friends.Ja: 「愛子、今日は勉強のことを忘れて、楽しんでみない？」春人は笑いながら言います。En: "Aiko, why don't you forget about studying for today and have some fun?" Haruto says with a laugh.Ja: 愛子は一瞬考え込みますが、ようやくスマホの通知をオフにすることを決意します。En: Aiko hesitates for a moment but finally decides to turn off her smartphone notifications.Ja: 「うん、今日は楽しむわ。」愛子は微笑んで答えました。En: "Yeah, I'll enjoy today," she replies with a smile.Ja: 芽依は、自分が作った特製の菊茶を差し出します。En: Mei offers her specially made chrysanthemum tea.Ja: 「よかったら飲んでみて。これ、私のお気に入りなんです。」En: "If you'd like, please try it. It's my favorite."Ja: お茶を飲みながら、三人は菊の花を見て、一緒に過ごします。En: As they sip their tea, the three of them enjoy the view of the chrysanthemums and spend time together.Ja: そんな中、愛子は何気なくノートを開きかけ、そして手がすべり、ノートは池に落ちてしまいました。En: In the midst of this, Aiko absent-mindedly starts to open her notebook, and as her hand slips, it falls into the pond.Ja: 一瞬の静けさの後、愛子は笑い出しました。En: After a moment of silence, Aiko begins to laugh.Ja: 「もうやるしかないね。」En: "I guess I have no choice but to enjoy myself now."Ja: その瞬間、彼女は心の中の緊張から解放されました。En: At that moment, she felt the tension inside her release.Ja: 芽依のお茶はみんなで飲むうちに、温かい会話の中心となりました。En: As everyone shared Mei's tea, it became the center of warm conversation.Ja: みんな心地よい日差しの下で笑い合い、時間はあっという間に過ぎていきました。En: They laughed together under the pleasant sunshine, and time flew by.Ja: 「こんな日が毎年あるといいな。」と春人が提案すると、三人はうなずき、来年もここで集まることを約束しました。En: "It would be great to have a day like this every year," Haruto suggested, and the three nodded, promising to gather there again next year.Ja: その日の終わり、愛子は心の中で大切なことを学びました。En: By the end of the day, Aiko learned an important lesson in her heart.Ja: 「休むことも必要なんだ。」彼女は自分にそう言い聞かせながら、荷物をまとめました。En: "It's necessary to take a break sometimes," she reminded herself as she packed her belongings.Ja: 芽依もまた、二人に受け入れられたことで自信を深め、微笑みました。En: Mei, having been accepted by the two, also gained confidence and smiled.Ja: 新しい友情が芽生えたこの日は、彼らにとって忘れられない思い出となりました。En: This day of newfound friendship became an unforgettable memory for them. Vocabulary Words:arrival: 訪れchrysanthemums: 菊refreshes: リフレッシュfestival: お祭りgathered: 集まっていますprioritizes: 優先しますhesitates: 考え込みますdecision: 決意notification: 通知release: 解放されましたconversation: 会話belongings: 荷物pleasant: 心地よいpromising: 約束しましたunforgettable: 忘れられないmemory: 思い出absent-mindedly: 何気なくslips: すべりtension: 緊張heart: 心confidence: 自信smiled: 微笑みましたeager: 願っていますpondering: 考え込みますview: 眺めsip: 飲むsunshine: 日差しtime flew by: 時間はあっという間に過ぎていきましたnecessary: 必要な

All around the U.S. kids are beginning to go back to school. With that in mind, Kate asked Betsy to come up with a back-to-school book they hadn't done before. Now you might think that the only first day of school book the great Kevin Henkes created was Chrysanthemum (which we did back in 2021). Not so! Here we find another. Kate says the cover is what you get if you mix Maus with Clockwork Orange (though Betsy thinks it looks more like Maus meets Vertigo). We talk about the panic attacks that are surely in Wemberly's future, how she resembles the Target dog, and why this man knows how to write a book. Mouse SEL books for the win! For the full Show Notes please visit: https://afuse8production.slj.com/2024/08/19/fuse-8-n-kate-wemberly-worried-by-kevin-henkes/

It's ok Don, Mad Men Men doesn't have a budget for a commercial, either. That's right, this week we're getting into 'The Chrysanthemum and the Sword,' the fifth episode of Season 4. And we don't need a "gift" from you the listeners, as you just being our listeners is plenty gift enough. Just don't invite us to any sleepovers anytime soon. In case this is your first time digging into our podcast, we recap Mad Men from the perspective of a first-time watcher, someone who only watched the show once while it was airing, and a superfan who watches excessively instead of having a functional social life. Extra credits: Our intro music is “Mad Men Men” by Tom Davidson, which is an original remix of the show's opening theme “A Beautiful Mine” by RJD2. Podcast illustration is by Jon Negroni. Our podcast hosts include Jon Negroni (Podcast Editor of InBetweenDrafts), Will Ashton (cohost of the Cinemaholics podcast), and Michael Overhulse (a guy who's addicted to working at startups).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recorded by Chrysanthemum Tran for Poem-a-Day, a series produced by the Academy of American Poets. Published on July 4, 2024. www.poets.org

The LEGO Group announced two stunning new additions to its LEGO® Botanical Collection: a LEGO® Plum Blossom and a LEGO® Chrysanthemum. Timeless gifts for a plant lover or perfect for creating an elegant floral display for your home, both new sets are designed to provide an immersive building experience for adults that lets creativity bloom.The LEGO Chrysanthemum (10368) and the LEGO Plum Blossom set (1369) and will be available to pre-order from June 26 via LEGO stores and from select leading retailers around the world.To find out more about the new LEGO Botanical Building Sets, visit: www.lego.com/adults-welcome/botanical-collectionEnjoying the show...give us a like and comment on all platforms. Help us make the LEGO world available to all!Find us everywhere through LinkTreeMusic: www.bensound.comLEGO, the LEGO logo, the Minifigure, and the Brick and Knob configurations are trademarks of the LEGO Group of Companies. ©2024 The LEGO Group.THE BRICKS KING PODCAST IS NOT ENDORSED BY THE LEGO GROUP OR AFFILIATED IN ANY WAY.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-bricks-king-podcast-lego--4920139/support.

The botanical name for feverfew is Chrysanthemum parthenium because according to Plutarch a worker fell during the construction of the Greek parthenon, and his life was saved by this plant's medicinal properties. The common name of feverfew is because it is used to reduce fevers. 

Part 2 of my interview with author Robert Whiting about his recent best selling memoir "Tokyo Junkie" 60 years of bright lights, back alleys, and baseball. In this episode, Bob tells great stories about colorful foreign players and well-known Japanese baseball stars. Part 2, we talk mostly about the baseball stories from his memoir, but also get into the important story of how writing his first book "The Chrysanthemum and the Bat" completely changed his life. Together with episode #1 this is another important and rare opportunity to hear the history and evolution of Tokyo, from one Olympics in 1964 to the the current Tokyo 2020 games as lived and experienced by a true story teller, Robert Whiting. Other topics we discuss:The real reason Nomo went to the US to play for the DodgersNY Yankees slugger Hideki Matsui's adult video collection storyBeing interviewed by  Larry KingReminiscing the time spent with Sadaharu OhThe Yomiuri Giants 10 Commandments for foreign ball playersHow the export of Japanese players to the Major League has changed Japanese baseball Why there are fewer gaijin cultural transgressions these daysThe backstory behind a keepsake he received from a fan . . .  and former US PresidentWhy gaijin "used" to get an expanded strike zoneBob's favorite untranslatable Japanese wordRobert's Books (Tokyo Junkie): https://www.amazon.com/Robert-Whiting/Robert Whiting: https://tokyojunkie.com/More Now and Zen Japan episodes: https://www.nowandzen.jp/Grow your website traffic = Zo Digital: https://www.zodigital.jp/Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.lifeUse the code word "ZEN" to receive discounts

For our June Special Subject we revisit the work of Kenji Mizoguchi, looking at two films from earlier than his best-known (in the West) period: The Story of the Last Chrysanthemums (1939), about cross-class lovers and what it takes to become a great artist, and The 47 Ronin (1941), based on a true story that became emblematic of samurai values. Topics discussed include King Vidor parallels, feminism, Marxism, revenge tragedy, and propaganda and its subversion. Time Codes: 0h 00m 35s:      Brief Mizoguchi briefing 0h 08m 00s:      THE STORY OF THE LAST CHRYSANTHEMUM (1939) [dir. Kenji Mizoguchi] 0h 42m 11s:       THE 47 RONIN (1941) [dir. Kenji Mizoguchi] +++ * Listen to our guest episode on The Criterion Project – a discussion of Late Spring * Marvel at our meticulously ridiculous Complete Viewing Schedule for the 2020s * Intro Song: “Sunday” by Jean Goldkette Orchestra with the Keller Sisters (courtesy of The Internet Archive) * Read Elise's piece on Gangs of New York – “Making America Strange Again” * Check out Dave's Robert Benchley blog – an attempt to annotate and reflect upon as many of the master humorist's 2000+ pieces as he can locate – Benchley Data: A Wayward Annotation Project!  Follow us on Twitter at @therebuggy Write to us at therebuggy@gmail.com We now have a Discord server - just drop us a line if you'd like to join! 

I've been a devoted fan of Robert Whiting since I first read "Chrysanthemum and the Bat" in high school during the 1980s. After many critically acclaimed books, I had the opportunity to sit down with Bob to discuss his latest memoir, "Tokyo Junkie: 60 Years of Bright Lights and Back Alleys... and Baseball." In our conversation, Bob shares his firsthand insights into six decades of captivating, dangerous, bizarre, and heartfelt experiences, spanning from the first Olympics in 1964 to the current 2021 games. This is part one of a two-part podcast interview. In this episode, we delve into the "Bright Lights and Back Alleys" of Tokyo Junkie, while the second episode will cover "Baseball" and more. This rare, oral history offers a raw and underground look at Tokyo, narrated by the man who lived it—from soldier to degenerate, to professional, to the rojin—Robert Whiting. Other topics we cover include:What it's like to have your life threatened by the Yakuza (twice)Why writing a Memoir was a "painful" processThe big break which changed his lifeBefriending gangsters and its repercussionsBack stories of mafia and politicsWhat led to the writing of his 1st bookAfter 60 years in Japan what he misses most about the "good old days"News of his next book, a sequel to "Tokyo Underworld" Most "Gratifying" professional achievement Interview tips for a certain podcaster ;-) Robert's Books (Tokyo Junkie): https://www.amazon.com/Robert-Whiting/Robert Whiting: https://tokyojunkie.com/More Now and Zen Japan episodes: https://www.nowandzen.jp/Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life

The endurance runner Imo Boddy has smashed the 45-year-old world record and become the fastest known woman to complete the UK Three Peaks. She joins Nuala McGovern live on the programme.Do you know what love bombing is? One of our Woman's Hour listeners Lynn got in touch to say it's something we should be discussing. She joins Nuala alongside relationship therapist Simone Bose to explain more about what love bombing is, and how we can all look out for the warning signs.Nuala is joined by the artist Kerry Samantha Boyes whose work you may have seen in the Barbie Movie, or the Lord of the Rings. Kerry makes fake food for a living and her studio, The Fake Food Workshop, will be one of 104 studios open to the public for the Spring Fling art event, which takes place across Dumfries and Galloway this weekend.Some of Britain's most vulnerable children are being detained and having their freedoms restricted under court orders known as “deprivation of liberty”. The most senior family court judge for England and Wales has called the growing use of the order a “crisis”. The BBC's Ashley John-Baptiste has heard from young people who have spent parts of their childhood under these orders. Plus, former social worker Beverly Bennett-Jones joins Nuala. The Japanese Royal Family is one of the oldest in the world, the same dynasty has ruled for more than 2,500 years. But the current law means that only a male heir can inherit the Chrysanthemum throne and become the Emperor. This has caused a succession crisis in recent years as the Royal Family kept having girls. The BBC's Tokyo Correspondent Shaimaa Khalil joins Nuala. Presenter: Nuala McGovern Producer: Emma Pearce

The Daily Quiz - Science and Nature Today's Questions: Question 1: What mathematical term refers to the middle number in a sequence? Question 2: What would you call a baby whale? Question 3: What is Nosology the study of? Question 4: What process is used when kidneys are not working properly? Question 5: What is iron oxide commonly known as? Question 6: What is the chemical calcium carbonate often used for? Question 7: What plant species, whose scientific name is Chrysanthemum maximum, includes the shasta variety? Question 8: What is calcium magnesium carbonate commonly known as? Question 9: Which protocol is used to send and receive emails? This podcast is produced by Klassic Studios Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A book about how unkind words can be very hurtful, and about loving the unique things about yourself.

The Peddler & the Fairy: Part 3 The trio's idle hours are interrupted by an unexpected guest.In 10 parts, by Scholarly Mori. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Novels. During the trek back to camp, Reina lagged behind. She felt a little awkward with her new family, but she was also giddy. 'I can't believe I finally found a herd-mate!' she thought. 'He's not what I imagined he'd be; he's not even the same species, but he didn't mind my oddities or disfigurement, and he; he actually kissed them!' She put her hands to her face, blushing at the memory. [[MORE]] 'Speaking of kisses, Azalea kissed me, as well, and on the lips no less. What did that mean? Did it mean anything? Is that normal? What is considered normal for humans and fairies? I guess I can only try to play it by ear and see how things develop.' Arriving at Devin's camp, she assessed her new home. "Your camp looks clean and well organized. I would expect no less from my herd-mate." "Thanks! I try to keep it that way. Food scraps tend to attract wild animals, and I like knowing where everything is." Reina looked toward the wagons. The largest barrels had round stone plates on top and bottom, lashed together with rope. Ice clung to the sides and rim of the barrels. "You mentioned you were a merchant. What do you sell?" Reina asked. "Before I answer that, how much do you two know about human society?" "I have not had many interactions with humans. When I was very young, my parents took me with them to the human capital, but all I remember is a lot of people and tall buildings." She shrugged. "The Northern kingdom is an alliance of demi-human tribes and the old kingdom of Lindone. There are three major human cities: Thawdenn, Iceford, and Merport, with a smattering of smaller towns and homesteads across the region. Because of the poor growing environment, milk is an important staple, especially during the winter months. Because there are very few holstaurs this far north, compared to the Middle Kingdom, sheep-girl and satyr milk have become the primary alternative -- mainly because they endure cold better, and sheep girls have the added benefit of producing wool," Devin explained as he started to break camp. "So you're a milk merchant?" inquired Reina. "Mostly. I buy milk wholesale from Thawdenn and resell it in Iceford or one of the smaller settlements, charging a slightly higher price, plus a delivery and handling fee. I sometimes also barter for other demi-human commodities: lamia venom, sheep-girl wool, spools of arachne silk, pollen from alraune, the occasional order of milt, and caviar from Merport, plus a few other things." "That sounds like a lucrative enterprise." "It's a modest living. Everyone needs something to be moved from one place to another, so I figured the prospects with that as a profession would be stable." "Are these stone plates responsible for this?" Reina asked while tapping the ice on one of the barrels. "Yes. Those specific ones are called chill runes. Think of them as a pre-cast spell. Runes are flexible and convenient for non-affinity users. They can be applied to many different materials for a variety of effects, but they have many limitations, too, mainly duration and availability. I'm not sure exactly how they are made, but I think they take blood as a fuel source." "Impressive you have multiples of these." "Enough for each milk barrel, but they'll expire soon, so I hope you don't mind the hasty departure, but it's almost noon, and we have quite a bit of distance to cover. We'll be heading out as soon as we are packed," Devin announced. When the wagon was fully loaded, and Devin was hitching up the bay, Reina put a hand on his arm. "May I be allowed to pull the wagon?" "You can, but why?" he challenged with a stunned expression. Reina patted the old bay. "I can't, in good conscience, let this elderly horse do all the work alone. I would like to assist her." "That's fine with me, but I don't have a spare harness. I'll have to rig something, and it probably won't be comfortable." "I am not concerned about a little discomfort." A warm smile broke out on her face. Reina positioned herself next to the bay as Devin tied some spare rope into an assortment of loops. Then he placed them around Reina's lower torso and behind her front legs. "How is it? Not too tight?" Devin checked. "It's a little rough, but it will suffice." Devin climbed into the driver's seat, and Azalea took up her favorite perch on his shoulder. He gave the reins a test pull. "Can you feel that?" Reina felt a little tug on her left side, then the other. "Yes." "Let me know if you become too tired," he offered. With a flick of the reins, the wagon jerked forward. Reina watched the bay, timing their movements together. Progress was slow at first, but Reina soon settled into a complementary gait. As they neared the treeline, Devin pulled the wagon to a halt. "How are you feeling, Reina?" "This is quite invigorating," she panted, "although this area is getting a bit sore." She rubbed where the rope was chafing her skin. Devin thought for a moment, then rummaged around the wagon bed. "This might help." He placed some burlap fabric between her skin and the rope. "Better?" "Yes, thank you." Devin stood on the wagon and poked his head above the trees, checking the highway for signs of people. Seeing none, he climbed back into his seat, and the trio made their way down to the road. "What a magnificent example of human ingenuity," Reina commented. "Half right. The king's highway is the cooperation between humans and demi-humans." "I remember my mother mentioning it when I asked her about human culture once," reminisced Azalea. "It was the answer to the problem of particularly harsh winters that would strand many tribes and stymy trade. Though, I think it's mostly taken for granted now," Devin mused. When she was guided to the edge of the road, Reina had to maneuver a bit to clear the lip of the embankment. Its construction was mostly crushed rock overlaid with packed earth, slightly higher than the surrounding environment. She stopped a moment to wipe the sweat off her forehead. "It has been quite a while since I've exerted myself this much. I don't know how this poor creature managed it for so long." She patted the bay's head. "So we are headed to Iceford, herd-mate?" "Yes, but we'll make a detour to my friend's homestead," Devin answered. "I have never been to this part of the region. Excuse me for a moment." She pulled up the blanket covering her backside, squatted, and urinated. Devin cocked an eyebrow. "Do you have a pee fetish or something?" Reina hid a smile behind her hand, "For many demi-humans, urine contains a great deal of information about an individual, but to answer your question, no, I do not. The fact you've seen me urinate so much is purely coincidental. In this specific instance, though, there is a custom among Whitehorns called poronkusema. When we start a new migration into a region we are unfamiliar with, we measure the distance based on how often we need to empty our bladder." "That's one way to do it, I guess." "Maybe I should have done the same thing when I flew here from my village," Azalea quipped. -- The sun was slowly warming the crisp morning air as the trio set off west. Usually, Devin passed the dull kilometers daydreaming of a more exciting life, but now that he had it, he was glad for the long hours. He needed time to plan and think about certain changes he'd have to make in the future. "Reina." Looking over her shoulder, "Yes, herd-mate?" "Is this something you want to do full time, or until I find a new horse?" "If your cargo doesn't get much heavier, I am confident I can fulfill this role." "I don't usually fill it beyond this amount. I'm assuming you are equally confident in snow?" "Yes, more so, even." 'That would lessen my concerns quite a bit. Horses are expensive, and Gylan might not even have a spare to let me borrow or sell.' He thought. For his bay's sake, he never did much winter trading when the snows became deep. This might be an opportunity if Reina was offering and proficient at winter travel. He had to consult with a wainwright about getting a proper harness for her. The rest of the day was uneventful. Reina would stop roughly every seven kilometers and urinate. Azalea passed the time humming or sketching the landscape, but she eventually grew bored and pulled out a separate sketch pad bound with a thick cord. "Hey, Reina!" Reina's ear swiveled backward at the sound of her name. "Can I sketch your ass?" Azalea requested matter-of-factly. "You want to sketch my what, ?!" "Your ass! It's very cute, and I want to preserve it for, posterior-ty!" Azalea grinned at Devin. "Haven't you seen enough of her ass?" Devin solicited. "Can you ever have too much of something that's nice to look at?" challenged Azalea. "It beats staring at trees the whole time," Devin relented. "If it makes Azalea stop making bad puns, then please say yes, Reina." 'Why am I so embarrassed whenever I interact with Azalea,' Reina thought. Aside from the threesome they had this morning, when her embarrassment was superseded by her horniess, she always felt a bit flustered around her. Blushing, Reina pulled the blanket up, giving the two an eyeful of her shapely rump. They didn't say anything, but she could feel their eyes wandering over her. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Azalea start to sketch. "You have a graceful walk, Reina," Devin extended. "Th, thank you, herd-mate." Each footfall was firm and sure as her legs and haunch muscles tensed and rippled with the strain of each step. She shook her head just as a breath of wind caused the filigree in her antlers to catch the light, scattering the sun across the silky hair fluttering behind her. It definitely enhanced her assumed queenly persona. "I'm done!" Azalea announced two hours later. She handed Devin her sketch pad. He held it up, comparing it to the real thing. Azalea's giftedness was quite evident. Devin was impressed by the way Azalea used shadow to imply the location of her muscles and provide depth to the finer details of her more intimate bits, especially the grooved lines of her anus and slight creases of her labia. The attention she applied to Reina's fur stood out the most, creating the illusion of movement and softness and making the image seem more real than it should. "Subject matter aside, you're an amazing artist," he commended. "One of the few things I'm great at," She said smugly. "That sketchbook contains a collection of all my most memorable and favorite drawings. Flip to the beginning and see!" Devin turned to the first page, and it made more sense why Azalea chose Reina as her theme. "Azalea, your collection is extensively detailed drawings of demi-human genitalia?" he asked, incredulous. "Uh-huh! Well, not all of them, but they are all people I've met, or care about. Aren't they amazing?! Look at all the different shapes and sizes! Isn't this one cute? Can you believe how big that one is? Isn't the shape of this one fascinating?!" Devin shook his head. The sketches weren't sexual in nature. They were so academic that they just needed labels for it to be some kind of indecent demi-human field guide. "Not sure I want to ask if you peeped on all these people naked so you could draw them." "Of course not! That would be rude and creepy. I casually go up to them and ask. It's not my fault if they think I'm a Leannin Sidhe." "A what?" "They are cousins to us fairies, but eccentric and obsessed with art, drawing, composing music, singing, stuff like that." "So you don't clarify that you're a fairy." "Well; not exactly, but it's fine. They were all happy to pose for me." Halfway through the sketches, the theme changed. Devin had to ask, "Is this your village?" "Yes. It's very boring, but quaint enough to live in, I suppose." Very much in tune with the natural surroundings, her village did look cozy. There were tiny doors and windows in trees, fallen logs, and the sides of hills. Its fairy inhabitants looked similar to Azalea, with a wide array of brightly-colored clothing. The scenes looked like what you'd find at any human town: fairies perusing market stalls, some singing to small audiences, all of them going about their daily lives. The last two pages were a panorama. "Oh, that's my classmates after we graduated. They wanted to relax after all our studying, so they went to the communal baths to unwind." "They didn't invite you?" Devin inquired. "No, but I went anyway. It's normally used by the whole village, but it was early enough in the day so we were the only ones there." Azalea pointed to a spot in the upper left corner. "The bath is fed by a large creek diverted into two channels. The first feeds five waterfalls where we wash before going into the main area." Azalea pondered over the picture a moment. "This is Lilac under the first falls, she has a well-rounded knowledge of many topics, especially anatomy. Unlike me, she has no problem remembering all those unnecessarily long names. Next to her is Magnolia, she's soft-spoken and very clumsy, in a cute way". "Any examples?" Azalea put her hand to her chin. "We once went foraging in the forest. She tripped over a root. Luckily, I was behind her, so I had a front-row seat, and it was my first time seeing under her dress. She has a beauty mark on her left cheek. Also, I'm sure she has the biggest clit out of all the girls." "You would notice things like that," Devin commented and laughed. She circled her fingers and looked through them at him. "As an artist, I have a quick and discerning eye for detail, life-mate." "Indeed," Devin said amused. "Where was I? Oh yes, this lovey-dovey couple is Camellia and Reed. They've been together for years. They go everywhere and do everything together. She says her long, golden hair is high maintenance, so she has Reed help wash it, but I think it's just an excuse to feel his penis between her thighs." "I can relate! I appreciate a certain fairy's thighs wrapped around mine." "You did?! I'm glad, life-mate!" She pounced on him, hugging his neck. They shared a kiss before going back to the picture. "The second channel feeds the main bath. I think it can fit twenty-five fairies comfortably, maybe a few more if they sit on these mossy rocks surrounding the edge. "Life-mate, here's a fun little secret. This moss feels really good on a bare cunt. Imagine soft, bunny-girl fur between your legs. This one especially makes it easy for a little stealth masturbation." She leered at an unassuming rock protuberance. "Easy to hide wet spots in the bath," Devin speculated. "That was my exact thinking, too! Too bad it's not a hot bath, or else it'd be easier to hide a flushed face as well." She giggled. "Let's see, who else? Oh, this is Chrysanthemum. She's quite athletic. It's fun to watch her boobs bounce around when she exercises. She doesn't talk much, though. When she's bathing, she just eats the fruits hanging from these vines and people-watches. Unlike these two," Azalea said and tapped the page, "Myrtle and Hazel, they love to gossip, mostly about Hyacinth. They don't do it maliciously, though. "Speaking of which, this is Hyacinth." Devin followed her finger to a fairy with tied-up blonde hair and a pair of alluring emerald eyes. "She's the class tease, always flirting with the boys. She's giving poor Sorrell a handjob while he watches Lily grope Marigold. I say poor because she has a bit of a mean streak. She never brings them to climax, always leaving them with blue balls. I overheard some of the boys say her hands feel amazing, so maybe it's worth the discomfort. Now that I think about it, they do get them more often in the bath. Maybe it takes more work to get them hard in cold water?" "And this is Lily and Marigold?" Devin asked. "Yep, Lily has the flattest chest in the class. She enjoyed groping all the big girls, especially Marigold, who's the largest aside from me." "She never groped you?" "She did. Got my nipples hard on quite a few occasions, but when my little nymphomania secret got out, she stopped." "So, let me get this straight. You went to the baths with your classmates even though they essentially ostracized you for having a high sex drive?" Azalea twiddled her thumbs. "Even if I can't get close to people and they don't talk to me, I still like to be around them." Devin scooped up Azalea and cuddled with her for a moment. "I hope our time together makes up that." Azalea nuzzled him back. "It already has, life-mate! I've been happier than I've been in a long time! It hasn't even been two days, and already I've had so much fun with you. and now that Reina's here, it's been double the fun!" Reina smiled. "I too am looking forward to our future together, Azalea." Devin set Azalea down. "So, fairies aren't normally as horny as you?" "Faires, no; pretty conservative, the bath thing was just them goofing around. Our Leannin Sídhe cousins, on the other hand, are much more so. They express their sexuality through art, so they can get away with the 'its art' excuse. Pixies, though, the little addicts, sex to them is basically saying hello. The one time I went to one of their villages looking for a life-mate, four of them were going at it in the town square while casually discussing what to eat later. No one batted an eye. They'll do anything whenever, wherever." "And that didn't appeal to you?" "It was tempting, but Pixies just love the pleasure. For me, sex is fascinating to study and learn about; the pleasure is just a bonus. Also, they never leave their villages, that sounds boring to me." Devin nodded his understanding and flipped to the next page. "Oh, that one is my mom and her husband when they moved to the orc village!" A fairy with a face resembling Azalea, except a bit older with a smaller bust and short wavy hair, was standing on the open palm of a large, well-dressed orc. "You keep saying husband. Is he not your father?" "Hmm? Oh, no, he isn't." "Oh. I thought it odd you didn't call him dad. Wait, didn't you say fairies can only have offspring with other species?" "Huh? I don't think so? Maybe I didn't explain it well enough. Fairies can mate with other fairies, demi-humans, or humans, but offspring will always be fairies. Anyway, mom remarried and that picture was when she made her public announcement of marriage." The way Azalea hurried away from the topic of her biological father, Devin surmised she didn't want to talk about him. "The adjacent picture is the day after their marriage." Azalea's mom was in the bath, sitting on her husband's erect penis. "He's a bit of a shy sort when it comes to nudity around anyone but mom, but she managed to persuade him, saying she wanted to make sure they were both clean before drawing the lovecrest. "This was the first time we had all bathed together. I was sitting across from them. Mom was scrubbing his penis a little too vigorously and ended up making him cum all over me. He was mortified, but mom and I had a good laugh while reassuring him it was alright." 'I see where her lewd side came from.' Devin thought. "So, your mom has a lovecrest too?" "She does, she is the one who taught me, but her's, has some unique additions." Azalea trailed off. "Anyway, she was able to take him first try, no problem. That's why I thought maybe you'd fit in me." "Well, your mom is, well, a mom. She had you, so that was bound to stretch her out a bit." Azalea sighed. "I hope so." The second-to-last page had a full-page image of a penis. 'This one looks oddly familiar,' he thought. "Azalea." "Yes, life-mate?" "Is this my penis?" "Isn't it lovely! I loved snuggling up to it this morning." "Is that going to happen every morning? "Of course. Who doesn't like breakfast in bed?" she snickered. Devin handed her sketchbook back. "So, what'd you think of my collection?" she buzzed. "It's, um, a very unique way to express your interests." "I can't wait to fill up more pages during our adventures!" she beamed. "I'm gonna go show Reina." She had just landed on Reina's shoulder when a large shadow passed overhead, drawing everyone's attention. Devin instinctively pulled the wagon to a stop. Azalea and Reina both looked back, eyes wide, as two large and glossy black wings enveloped Devin. "Hello, little brother," said a tenderly sensuous voice, "I have returned for my bi-weekly sibling bonding time!" "You know you don't have to, Mavis," Devin replied, nonplussed. "Don't be so cold. Is that any way to treat your big sister who hasn't seen you in such a long time?!" She hugged him tighter, resting her chest on top of his head. "It's only been two days." "Two days is an eternity when I spend all my time alone, flying across the broad swath of empty wilderness." She sniffled melodramatically. Devin brushed some of the feathers aside and looked up into the smiling ruby eyes of a slim woman in her mid-thirties. "Won't you give your lonely sister a kiss?" Devin lightly kissed one of her feathers. "Now, now! That won't do! Give your big sister a proper kiss." As Devin sighed, she shook a few strands of black hair from her face and bent down, pressing her soft lips into his in a not-quite-sensual, but definitely more than familial, kiss. She probed his lips questioningly with her tongue, but he kept them firmly closed. Mavis looked disappointed. "You normally love our little make-out sessions." "M'not today," he muttered. "Is it because you're embarrassed to show how close we are to your friends? Oh well, I guess I can settle for this to stave off my loneliness for a while, but next time it will be full tongue!" she cooed. Azalea, getting over her initial surprise, fluttered up to the harpy calling herself Devin's sister. "Oh, hello, are you a friend of my brother's? Would you like a kiss too?" she proposed alluringly. "He's my life-mate, and I have a hard time believing you're his sister, given the obvious differences." "You don't believe me? Can't you see the family resemblance?" She rested her head on Devin's shoulder so Azalea could compare. "See? Perfect family resemblance!" she chuckled. Azalea folded her arms and rolled her eyes. "She's technically right, Azalea," assured Devin, "though it's more accurate to say I'm her adopted brother. We were childhood friends growing up. I was eighteen when my parents passed away, so Mavis' family took me in." Mavis mussed his hair. "And that's why he has my family's last name. We are just as close as any biological siblings." Azalea mulled over this explanation a moment. "If you're life-mate's sister, then; then that makes you my sister too?!" "I'm not sure that's how it wor―" Devin tried to say. Azalea exploded in excitement. "I've never had a sibling! What do sisters normally do together?! Try on each other's clothes?! Bake sweets?! Pick flowers?! I could make you a pretty―!" Devin plucked her out of the air, muffling her in his hand. "You found a sweet girl, Devin! I like her -- very spunky. She's just what you need to experience the more exciting parts of life," Mavis said. "Actually, she found me." "Is that so?" Mavis stole Azalea out of Devin's hand and pulled her close. "You want to hear some interesting stories about him?" "Most definitely!" She nodded enthusiastically. "He peeked at me several times in the bath." "She complained she couldn't wash her back properly," Devin interjected. "That was the first night I moved in and before I became aware of your hobby of teasing me. I got in trouble with your father for that." "You say trouble. I call it life experience." "He was such a naughty brother, Azalea -- always trying to glance under my tail feathers." "You mean you enjoyed giving me a hard time by wearing next to nothing when lounging around the house," he clarified. "I think you mean hard-on," she teased. "Clothes are such a bother, anyway, when you don't leave the house." Turning her attention back to Azalea, "That wasn't the most daring thing he did, Azalea. He was even brazen enough to sneak into my bed once and spoon me." "She snuck into MY bed, in MY room, and rubbed her ass against me." "You liked it, and I could tell you wanted to cum." "Did not." "Well, technically, yes, I couldn't tell since you had a lot of pre-cum and a very wet dream." Azalea patted them both on the head between laughs. "You two are so cute together, and he does produce a lot of pre-cum. I'll have to try giving him a wet dream sometime, too." Azalea giggled. "Oh, so you know! He was so mean to me that night, Azalea. Imagine it: it's late at night, and you get those tingles, that deep itch that can only be scratched by someone with fingers, but he's fast asleep! So what am I to do but try to scratch it myself with the nearest long, hard object, but the angles are all wrong to get it inside, so all I end up doing is making him get my tail feathers all sticky. Then, when he wakes up, instead of helping me, he leaves the room embarrassed!" she mock-cried. Azalea put her hands on her hips. "Life-mate, shame on you, it's written in the younger brother handbook that he has the responsibility to take care of the sexual needs of his older sister." "First, I wasn't expecting her to be in my bed rubbing up against my morning wood. Second, I wasn't ready to fertilize her eggs, and third, I'm positive and glad no such book exists," he claimed with exasperation. "He can be quite the stick-in-the-mud, can't he, Azalea? I tried many times to wash his penis, to search out his favorite spots, but he always found an excuse to avoid me." "You want me to tell you where they are?" Azalea whispered conspiratorially. "I can hear you when you're right next to me, you know. If you two are quite done teasing me, I would like to know if you have any messages." Reina sighed. "Always business first. Yes, I do, but first, look!" She spread her wings and did a little spin in the back of the wagon. "Brand new uniforms! Doesn't this purple and yellow beret look professional?" She adjusted it smartly. "It even has our emblem of a talon clutching a scroll embroidered on it, and isn't this black leather jerkin with alternating purple and yellow trim fashionable? I still need help to put it on and take off, but it's a lot quicker now since they moved the brass buckles to the sides. "The only thing I dislike are these tight, form-fitting breeches. The short belted skirt over it is cute, but how am I supposed to show off my trim ass if it's being covered?" "I'm sure your ass wasn't even a consideration for your boss." "Sadly, you're right, even though I'm his fastest harpy at Wing and Claw Delivery. Speaking of asses, I thought I eyed you covering yours just before I landed, Miss Quiet Whitehorn." Reina had been silently listening and not in any particular hurry to enter the conversation. "A lady would never do such a thing in public," She deflected. "Is that so? I have a pretty good eye, especially for asses, and I'm positive I saw yours for a brief moment." "I asked to se―" Devin muffled Azalea with his hand again. "How about I introduce you two," Devin cut in. "Mavis, this is Reina D Virtsa. She's traveling with Azalea and I. Reina, as you've already heard, this is my older sister, Mavis Ebonplume." "It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Ebonplume." "Likewise, Miss Virtsa." "Returning to business matters, I have a client who has a big commission they want you, specifically, to fulfill; if you're up to it," Mavis announced. "Oh? Who, and what's the commodity?" Devin queried. "For now, they would like to remain anonymous but will have the written request completed in a few days. If you could stop by the office, I'll be able to give it to you then." "Alright, I'll be making a detour at Gylan's farm, so it'll be about two or three days." "That's fine. It's not an urgent or time-sensitive request. Anyway, I've used up all my break time and need to be off to deliver the rest of these." She shook the large satchels hanging under her wings. "Love you! I'll see you in a few days!" Mavis spread her wings, did a test flap, and then took flight heading east. "Your sister is fun to be around, life-mate! I can't wait to see her again!" "I'm glad you two got along, even if it was at my expense." -- Managing a few more kilometers before sunset, the trio found a decent place to camp for the night. Devin served up a meal of baked potatoes and wild chives that Reina found. Azalea was the first to finish eating, falling asleep soon after leaving Reina and Devin alone with the fire. "Are you feeling sore, Reina?" Devin broke the silence. "It was a bit more exertion than I anticipated, but I will grow accustomed to it." Again, the two sat in silence for some time around the crackling fire, listening to the crickets' nightly song. "Your sister really cares for you, herd-mate." "She does. She's always been highly independent and proactive at doing whatever she puts her mind to, but she was never too busy to check up on me. She keeps trying to get me to quit being a merchant and come live with her, but I don't know how she could afford me not working. She can't make that much at her job. She keeps telling me she has an alternative income but never elaborates where from." "Even still, you never considered her offer?" "I like being a merchant and love traveling. Besides, if I had, I never would've met you or Azalea." Reina tried to hide a smile. "That's true." Devin got up and joined Reina on her side of the fire. "Wha; what are you doing, herd-mate?" "Just wanting to hold your hand." "Of course, but I've just never done it in an intimate way before, is this part of human courtship? I don't know anything about how humans bond. It hasn't even been a day since we met and things have all happened so fast. I'm sorry if ―." Devin suddenly kissed her lips. She stiffened in surprise, then felt her worry melt away as their lips lingered together. Settling back he squeezed her hand. "There isn't really any 'right way', go at our own pace," he assured her. "How do Whitehorns conduct their courtship?" Reina pondered a moment. "When Whitehorns come of age, both females and males leave their family to join other herds. Most males join together in 'bachelor bands.' During mating season, they will sparr with one another to demonstrate their physical and charismatic prowess to claim the right to be the first to ask potential females. Candidates are chosen based on pedigree, personality, looks, fertility, etc. The female can then either decline or accept to create their own separate herd as a pair or a group. "The male will choose a primary female. Together, they will co-manage duties between themselves: when and where to migrate, who to trade with, and diplomatic-related duties with other herds or other demi-human tribes. The male will eventually mate with all the females of the herd, but the primary female chooses when and sometimes with who. She does that to maintain the resources balance within the herd. Offspring are raised communally, allowing females without offspring to work with mothers to gain experience and allow other mothers a chance to rest." Devin leaned his head on Reina's side. "Do you miss your family?" "I am unsure of my feelings about them right now. My family was never very openly affectionate, and my father was rather stern most of the time. Being the oldest child, they probably had expectations of me, but they never verbalized them or hinted at their wishes. They were probably disappointed that I'm thirty and never found a herd-mate." "Till now." She smiled. "Yes, until now, but I am uncertain how they would view our; unique relationship. I've never heard of another of my kind in a similar situation." "Relationships like ours seem to be rare. In my travels, I've seen only a handful of similar partners. When we first met, you said you were on your way to catch up with your herd?" "I did. This time of year is our bi-annual migration to our winter home. I had many things dwelling on my mind, so I decided to travel alone for a while so I could think about things," Reina mused. "And, " he prodded. "And?" "How did the bramble come into play?" he asked. Reina looked down. "It was a rash decision, and my stress was quite high; and I needed some relief." "Will they miss you when you don't turn up?" Devin pushed further. "I don't know. I've been left to my own devices for many years now. I doubt they would miss me." "I'd like to think, on some level, most parents want to at least know if their children are safe," Devin stated with sympathy. "If you want, you can write a letter and have Mavis deliver it. Might give you some closure." "I'll think about it." Reina started to feel warm near the fires, so she removed her coat. She still felt a little vulnerable removing her outerwear. Out of habit, she moved to cover her scars but saw Devin watching her and folded her hands instead. "Do they really not bother you?" she asked quietly. Reina tensed as Devin made a move to touch them, but with a mischievous smile, he started tickling her. Surprised, she attempted to fend off his attacks but ended up laughing more than defending. He continued his onslaught for a few minutes and managed to roll Reina onto her side before stopping. "Feel more relaxed?" He grinned. She nodded, catching her breath and wiping happy tears from her eyes. "I wasn't expecting that." Devin helped her back up. "It was a spur-of-the-moment decision." After a pause, he continued, "I'm still curious as to how you got them." Reina took a deep breath. "I; my sister and I were kidnapped by slavers." "Wait, you were victims during that slaver attack thirteen years ago!?" "I was. I tried to protect my sister, or at the very least, keep her in the group I was in. They didn't like my protests that much." "So they whipped you," he said bluntly and with a tinge of anger. Reina nodded. They both fell silent, letting the weight of Reina's story sink in. "I'm sorry about your sister." "I mourned for her and had nightmares for several years." Devin pulled Reina into a hug. "I'm sorry you had to go through that." "Thank you, herd-mate. I no longer have nightmares, so these scars are the only reminder of that time. "I'll do my best, and I'm sure Azalea will as well, to make sure you enjoy life from now on." "I am still getting used to Azalea's; unreserved nature, but I know she means well." "I don't know if it'll help, but you might try viewing your scars not as a stigma of your failure to protect your sister but as a testament to your courage and survival. Think if you hadn't. If a few minor injuries were the price for freedom, I'd say it was a pretty cheap cost." "I've never thought of it that way. I'll try to, herd-mate. I suppose the only other good thing that came from that event was my father hugged me for the first time when we returned home." "See! He does care for you." Devin tried to encourage her. Reina just looked into the fire thoughtfully. They interlocked and intertwined their fingers as silence settled over the camp, each attending to their own thoughts. "Reina, I've been meaning to ask about our; mating earlier. I was wondering if we hadn't come along, what was your plan if you got pregnant?" "I hadn't really thought about the repercussions," she admitted. "I'm ok with bearing your offspring if that's what you're implying?" "My preferences aside, I really want to hear your feelings." Reina looked into Devin's eyes. "I'm not against the idea, nor am I particularly eager to rush things. I am already more than happy to spend time traveling with you and Azalea for the time being. Not to mention, the orgasms you two gave me were quite satisfactory," she commended. They continued watching the fire, enjoying each other's closeness. Reina tried to stifle a yawn. Devin leaned against her, imagining no other place he'd rather be than right here, warm and content. "I bet you're going to sleep well tonight with all the exercise you got." "I will, but I am sure I will feel sore tomorrow." "Maybe we can alleviate that some." Reina watched curiously as he straddled her back. Placing his hands on her shoulders, he began a slow, deep massage. "I've found one of the best things in life is a massage right before bed and right when you wake up." "I can see why." She hummed delightedly. "Let me get this out of the way." She undid the clasp behind her neck, and her large breasts revealed their freedom with a slight bounce. She rolled her neck and shoulders, which tossed the fabric to the side. "Wearing clothes feels so confining at times." "Aside from pulling human wagons, you must get sore fairly regularly being so well endowed." Reina weighed them in her hands thoughtfully. "All the females from my family were blessed with a voluminous bust. I have become accustomed to the discomfort." "You shouldn't have to! You can ask me for a massage any time." "Such an attentive herd-mate. I'll be sure to take you up on your offer." Encouraged by her little purrs of pleasure, he tried to focus on the massage but kept getting distracted by her ample cleavage. He thought of how to ask to touch them when Reina took the initiative. "If you are going to be thorough, herd-mate, you are going to have to massage these as well." She smirked, placing her arms behind her head and thrusting her chest out. "As my queen desires." Thinking he was making fun of her, "M'not really royalty, you know." "I'm aware, but I already consider you my queen." Devin leaned in and kissed the back of her ear. Heat flooded Reina's face, and she tilted her head down, blushing profusely. "You're also incredibly adorable when you're embarrassed." Reina took a few breaths to calm her fluttering heart. "When I was very young, two human nobles and their retinue visited our herd." Devin scooted closer, his hands kneading the delicate muscles around the base of her breasts, ready to listen to her story. "Father didn't inform me as to the nature of their visit. I had no interest, either -- that is, until I saw the nobleman's wife, sitting upon her carriage, regal, indifferent as if the mediocrity of everyday life was beneath her." "What'd she look like?" he asked. She closed her eyes to bring back the memory. "Her hair was dark as walnut, braided into a crown around her head. She wore a sapphire-embedded coronet. An emblem of blue roses embroidered the entirety of her billowy dress. She looked so striking compared to what I was used to seeing; I was enchanted by her. "They stayed with us for a week. I wanted to talk with her, get to know her, but I rarely saw her outside her tent. For the first few days, I tried sneaking peeks at her, but I wasn't very discreet, and she shooed me away." Reina was so engrossed in telling her story that she failed to notice Devin's massage transition from a wholesome alleviation of soreness and tension to a more lewd nature. He experimentally cupped the oversized mounds in his hands, enjoying the luscious flesh squishing between his fingers. "On my fourth attempt," Reina continued, "I went at night. She was humming a song while brushing her hair. This time, though, she sighed when she noticed me. She ushered me in. Then she put her brush down, demanding to know why I kept disturbing her. I told her I was infatuated by her, the way she conducted herself, her lifestyle. "Whether she was bored or genuinely amused, I couldn't tell, but she invited me back to listen to her stories about growing up as a noble and how court life was conducted. Before she left, she gave me a book on etiquette. I ended up reading it so many times, I wore it out." "An interesting choice for a role model." He remarked, lightly brushing her large gray-brown areola with his fingertips. "My family and friends thought it cute, at first, but things became rather awkward between us when they realized it wasn't temporary." Devin slid from her back, taking his place in front of her. "People seem to latch on to what they admire, and coincidentally, I'm admiring these cute, little inverted nipples!" Reina looked down at his fingers teasing the slight indentations. "They are from my mother's side. Please be gentle. They are super sensitive." A low moan escaped her lips as he coaxed her left nipple from its hiding place, its stiffness hinting at her arousal. The right one proved less forthcoming, so he placed his lips over the stubborn nub and alternated sucking and pinching until it popped out stiffly. Reina pushed her chest forward, hugging his head in her arms as he suckled." That feels wonderful, herd-mate! Please don't stop." Devin increased the pressure in his mouth as he relaxed in the tenderness of her hug. Her warmth and her smell nurtured his love for this lovely young woman. Like with Azalea, he was going to do everything he could to make her happy and strengthen this bond. After several minutes of their intimate embrace, Reina gently pushed him away. "I'm sorry, herd-mate. That feels fantastic, but I won't be able to have an orgasm just from that. Allow me a few moments to cool down. We should probably get ready for bed. Would you please assist me?" It didn't sit right with Devin -- getting Reina all worked up then leaving her without satisfaction. As he helped remove the filigree from her antlers, he mentally tossed around a few ideas. "Could you attend to my fur, please?" She handed him a well-worn brush made of antlers and etched with trees and flowers. Her coarse outer fur was well adapted to protecting against snow. Her wispy, under-fur was silky and suited to resisting cold. "Reina, until we find an adequate means of birth control, have you ever tried anal?" "You mean mating with, that hole?" She pulled her tail in protectively. "Do people do that?!" "Not everyone likes it," Devin admitted while stroking her flank. She looked at him. "Wouldn't that hurt?" "Not with the right preparations. It might feel a bit more intense than vaginal, though." She bit her lip, wrestling with the idea. Seeing her hesitation. "We'll go as slow as you want, and you can tell me at any point if it's uncomfortable or hurts." With curious trepidation she let him pull her tail to the side. Right away, she shivered at the slight brush against her anus. Unlike a centaur's, Reina's anus depressed slightly inward. Human-like in texture, it was smooth and pale-ish pink. He caressed the velvety sphincter, getting her used to the sensation. "Should I stay in this position, herd-mate?" "Whichever is more comfortable for you," he replied gently. Reina remained lying down. She couldn't see exactly what he was doing, but every time his fingers made contact, little goosebumps appeared on her arms. Knowing her nervousness wouldn't help loosen her up, he considered different approaches to help her relax and have a little fun at the same time. He wondered how much teasing she could endure. Switching targets, he caressed her slit with the back of his knuckle. She was still mostly dry, so he helped her along by giving her a few playful licks. She muffled a squeal at the sudden sensation. "Sorry, I've never had anyone lick me there before." "I'm honored to be the first." Devin took another taste and an extended lick, letting his tongue slowly trail into the smooth recess of her body. He snaked his tongue up and over, staying just out of reach of her clit and vagina. His saliva mixed with her juices as her body began to leak her natural lubricant. His purposeful avoidance of all the places she wanted his tongue the most was making her all squirmy. She kept trying to angle herself to get more of his tongue, but he kept adjusting to her movements. "Are you enjoying teasing me, herd-mate?" "Most definitely. I think you're ready for something more direct." "Please!" She whined. Devin peeled her dripping lips apart. Her insides blossomed into view -- dark red, swollen, and drooling for more. Again, Devin sensuously trailed his tongue, from Reina's perspective, agonizingly slow toward the source of her need. Pausing just above her opening, he waited. "Pleeease, herd-mate!" she begged. With a smile, he plunged his tongue as deep as he could. She issued a guttural moan, and her cunt gushed at the sudden intrusion. He slurped and swirled his tongue, drinking as much of her as he could as he tried to get deeper. The more he lapped, the more she drenched his tongue. Coming up for air, he licked the juices dripping from his chin and admired his handiwork. When she turned to look at him, her eyes full of lust, he challenged, "Ready for more?" "I love what you're doing, but I thought we were; gonna do the other thing." "We are. I just got a little carried away enjoying how you taste." "I'll let you lick me anytime if this is the feeling I have to look forward to," she panted. "Just a little more." He eyed her clit peeking out from the bottom of her vulva, nicely glazed with her juices. He dove back in and swirled his tongue around the engorged nub. A passionate mewl encouraged him to play with it more. Pushing up from the bottom, he popped more of it out of hiding as he took it between his lips and sucked greedily. Her wiggling became earnest enough that he had to push her hips down. He hadn't forgotten the original purpose; he continued to feast as he transferred her lube to her anus. After a thorough coating, he slowly pushed his digit into her tight ring. Her sphincter resisted the initial push before yielding to his digit, and with a little fingering, widened enough for a second. Devin freed his erection and then stroked his length across her slit, replacing his fingers at her entrance. He pushed forward firmly. Her anus was unsure if it was ready and constricted. Momentarily pausing his advance, he checked with her, "Does it feel ok, Reina?" "I feel so full. Please go slow," she pleaded. He pulled back a bit, applying another helping of lube to himself. His next attempt was easier. With the head fully entering her, he held still, allowing her to adjust. He felt her clench a few times. A nod from her gave him the go-ahead. Starting with small thrusts, he gradually switched to longer and deeper ones. "That feel better?" "The pressure feels really intense," she groaned. "Could you aim downward a little? It feels really good when you push in." He had to switch to a crouch to angle downward. He felt his glans rub the bottom of her rectum when he pushed in. "Like that?" "Yes, I can feel it, sorta, in my vagina." Reina's purring made her comfort apparent. He'd have liked to fist her again, but at this angle, he couldn't maneuver his arm properly, so he settled for rubbing her clit with his thumb. "I'm going to be sore back there, but I can't believe how good this feels," she mewed. He responded by thrusting faster and harder, his balls slapping the top of her cunt. "Rub my clit harder! I'm gonna cum!" He felt her orgasm surge through her. Her anus clenched, making his thrusting difficult but adding to the sensation. Her cum gushed over his hand. He waited until she finished. "Reina, try pushing me out." She bore down, and her rectal muscles tightened around him. That is when she felt him grabbing her hips and thrusting hard and deep a few more times before erupting in her. "Oh, I can feel your cum!" she exclaimed, continuing to squeeze her muscles until he collapsed on her back. Following a few deep breaths, Devin pulled out of her and stood up shakily, licking her juices from his hand. Unlike Azalea's, whose was watery and thin, Reina's was syrupy and thick. "Did you have fun?" "You said massages are great before bed. We can add orgasms are great, too!" They both laughed. Devin helped clean Reina then himself before snuggling up against her. "Azalea must be a deep sleeper if she managed to sleep through all that noise," he thought out loud. Reina looked at their diminutive, sleeping friend. "I'm sure she would have joined us if she were awake." "Imagining a vibrating fairy against your clit again?" "I'd pass out again if she did that." They smiled tiredly at each other. "Good night, my queen." "Good night, herd-mate." Sleep prevailed in the camp. To be continued in part 4, by Scholarly Mori for Literotica.

An assassins' guild to one side and a hostile, mysterious medicine peddler to the other, Usagi Yojimbo is between a rock and a hard place. High in the mountains above ancient Japan, he is forced into battle along the narrow Chrysanthemum Pass. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/usagi-podjimbo/message

I had a conversation with the dark, mysterious and beautiful Emese Árvai-Illés of the Hungarian band Black Nail Cabaret. We talked about their music, her fascination with tornadoes which was quite interesting and so much more.. listen to the interview - please like, subscribe and share on YouTube. Their 6th studio album Chrysanthemum is out now on Dependent Records of Germany. Thank you https://blacknailcabaret.comhttps://en.dependent.dehttps://blacknailcabaret.bandcamp.comThank you for your support !Website: https://djnocturna.comYouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@DJNocturnaRadio: https://modsnapradio.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/nocturna.remixed/Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/djnocturna/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dj.nocturna

This week on 2 Fat Guys Talking Flowers we were thrilled to welcome none other than the Floral Batman and Superman themselves... okay, maybe not the Caped Crusaders, but close enough! In our new studio, we had David and JD from Deliflor Americas, the heroes behind revolutionizing the world of Chrysanthemums. Deliflor stands as the foremost Chrysanthemum breeder globally, boasting over 400 varieties under their brand and a plethora (to be read in Fern's voice) of accolades. Listen to how they became the powerhouse duo shaking up the floral industry. Plus, stick around for some “Gentlemen Confessions” that had all the guys laughing and Mimi blushing—don't forget those headphones, this might be a NSFW episode! For all the scoop on their latest and greatest varieties such as the soon to be famous Ballias & Margriets, visit www.delifloramericas.com

On today's episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Adina Oberman, talks to Olivia Bruno. Olivia is the head of children's services at her local library, which includes supervision of children's programming, children's librarians, the readers advisory program, and so much more. We're fortunate to have Olivia joining us today because February is the library lover's month and she's the perfect person.   Episode Highlights: 1:29: Olivia shares her lifelong passion for libraries, having started volunteering at age 12 and progressing to become the Head of Children's Services. 2:50: Adina and Olivia discuss how families can make the most of their local library's resources and programs, emphasizing the importance of visiting the library, exploring calendars, and engaging with online platforms for event listings and book recommendations. 4:19: Olivia encourages families to ask questions, assuring that library staff are eager to help patrons discover resources and programs tailored to their needs. 6:55: Adina emphasizes the importance of being prepared in advance when visiting the library and asks Olivia about underutilized resources. Olivia mentions the Museum Pass Program, where patrons can check out passes to local museums for free, highlighting its educational and cost-saving benefits. 8:23: Olivia also discusses libraries offering free homework printing services for kids, addressing challenges faced by families without printers. 10:02: Olivia expresses her love for picture books and shares her initiative of showcasing picture books on social media to encourage people of all ages to enjoy them. 11:07: Adina commends Olivia's thoughtful curation of book content on social media, particularly noting the interesting and fun nonfiction titles. Olivia mentions "Strictly No Elephants" by Lisa Mantchev as a moving book promoting kindness and inclusivity. 13:14: Olivia also recommends books by Tom Percival for addressing social and emotional health in an accessible manner and discuss the importance of picture books in conveying social-emotional learning to young children. 14:38: Adina then inquiries about Olivia's favorite books about books or libraries, referencing "So You Want to Build a Library." Olivia shares her love for "The Book Hog" by Greg Pizzoli, a touching story about a character who hoards books until discovering the joy of reading at the library. 16:33: Olivia emphasizes the importance of doing things together at the library and participating in events, such as story times. She encourages caregivers to bring their children even if they may not seem interested at first, underlining the value of the shared experience for child development and caregiver-child relationships. 17:23: Olivia refers to a study from the '90s about the positive impacts of families eating meals together, stating that shared activities, even seemingly simple ones, contribute significantly to family happiness.   Key Points: Families should actively engage with their local library, exploring programs and resources offered. Picture books play a vital role in teaching social-emotional skills, with recommended titles including "Chrysanthemum" and "Strictly No Elephants." Quality family time, such as eating together, has significant positive impacts on well-being and should be prioritized.   Tweetable Quotes: "I think picture books are just the purest, most wonderful form of art that exists." - Olivia "The simple act of being together, being with other caregivers and children, is so valuable to their development and the caregiver-child relationship." - Olivia "Come to the library, do things together. If you want to make the library part of that, come to our events, come to Storytime. The act of being together is so valuable to them and their development." - Olivia   Resources Mentioned Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple https://www.instagram.com/just.add.glitter/ Podcast Editing https://www.instagram.com/oliviathelibrarian/?hl=en

Chapter 1 What's The Chrysanthemum and the Sword Book by Ruth Benedict"The Chrysanthemum and the Sword" is a book written by American anthropologist Ruth Benedict. It was first published in 1946 and is considered one of the most influential works in the field of cultural anthropology. The book focuses on the study of Japanese culture and society, particularly during World War II.Benedict was commissioned by the United States Office of War Information to analyze and understand the Japanese people in order to aid the American war effort. She conducted her research based on a variety of sources, including interviews with Japanese immigrants in the United States and scholarly works on Japanese history and culture.In "The Chrysanthemum and the Sword," Benedict explores various aspects of Japanese culture, such as the importance of honor and shame, the concepts of loyalty and duty, the role of the family, and the effects of Confucianism on societal values. She also delves into the distinctions between Western and Japanese culture, highlighting areas where the two differ significantly.The title of the book is derived from a famous Japanese saying, "Under the chrysanthemum, the sword sleeps." This saying represents the contrasting elements of beauty and violence that are intertwined within Japanese culture."The Chrysanthemum and the Sword" is considered a seminal work in the study of Japanese culture and has influenced subsequent anthropological works on East Asia. It provides valuable insights into Japanese society and offers a nuanced understanding of the complexities of their cultural beliefs and practices.Chapter 2 Is The Chrysanthemum and the Sword Book A Good BookThe subjective nature of determining whether a book is "good" or not makes it difficult to provide a definitive answer. However, "The Chrysanthemum and the Sword" by Ruth Benedict is widely regarded as an influential and important work in the field of anthropology. Published in 1946, the book offers insights into Japanese culture, society, and the impact of World War II. It has been used as a resource for cross-cultural studies and has sparked discussions about cultural relativism. If you have an interest in anthropology, Japanese culture, or the impacts of war on society, this book might be worth exploring.Chapter 3 The Chrysanthemum and the Sword Book by Ruth Benedict Summary"The Chrysanthemum and the Sword" is a book written by Ruth Benedict, an American anthropologist, in 1946. The book provides a detailed analysis of Japanese culture, particularly focusing on the years leading up to and during World War II.Benedict explores various aspects of Japanese society, such as education, family structure, social hierarchy, and the influence of Confucianism and Shintoism. She argues that the cultural norms and values of the Japanese people at the time were deeply rooted in tradition and emphasized group harmony and social roles.The title of the book, "The Chrysanthemum and the Sword," comes from a Japanese legend that symbolizes the dichotomy between two aspects of Japanese culture: the delicate beauty and aestheticism represented by the chrysanthemum, and the samurai warrior culture represented by the sword.Throughout the book, Benedict delves into topics such as the role of women in Japanese society, the concept of "face" and social expectations, the importance of loyalty and honor, and the impact of the war on the Japanese people.Benedict also examines the influence of American occupation and how it contributed to significant cultural changes in Japan. She provides insights into the contrast between Japanese cultural values and Western ideals, highlighting the challenges and misunderstandings...

Today, we discuss some garden flowers and common weeds that will probably surprise you!THE PREPPER'S BLACK FRIDAY CATALOG A gift guide for the tin foil hat wearing survivalist in your life...even if that is YOU. Discounts on gas masks, solar generators, body armor, EMP protection, backup antibiotics, books, classes, and MORE! http://bit.ly/47OnkY1PS. New in the woodcraft Shop: Judson Carroll Woodcraft | SubstackRead about my new books:Medicinal Weeds and Grasses of the American Southeast, an Herbalist's Guidehttps://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/medicinal-weeds-and-grasses-of-american.htmlAvailable in paperback on Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47LHTTHandConfirmation, an Autobiography of Faithhttps://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/confirmation-autobiography-of-faith.htmlAvailable in paperback on Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47Q1JNKVisit my Substack and sign up for my free newsletter: https://judsoncarroll.substack.com/Read about my new other books:Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist's Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.htmlAvailable for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPSThe Omnivore's Guide to Home Cooking for Preppers, Homesteaders, Permaculture People and Everyone Else: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/10/the-omnivores-guide-to-home-cooking-for.htmlAvailable for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGKX37Q2Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast an Herbalist's Guidehttps://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.htmlAvailable for purchase on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6andGrowing Your Survival Herb Garden for Preppers, Homesteaders and Everyone Elsehttps://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/04/growing-your-survival-herb-garden-for.htmlhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B09X4LYV9RThe Encyclopedia of Medicinal Bitter Herbs: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/03/the-encyclopedia-of-bitter-medicina.htmlAvailable for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5MYJ35RandChristian Medicine, History and Practice: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/01/christian-herbal-medicine-history-and.htmlAvailable for purchase on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09P7RNCTBHerbal Medicine for Preppers, Homesteaders and Permaculture People: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2021/10/herbal-medicine-for-preppers.htmlAlso available on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09HMWXL25Podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/show/southern-appalachian-herbsBlog: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/Free Video Lessons: https://rumble.com/c/c-618325

Mum's the word on this week's episode as we dig into a fall favorite and highly requested plant- chrysanthemums- a plant with almost as many contradictions as it has petals. Sources: https://www.gardendesign.com/flowers/mums.html https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysanthemum https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/chrysanthemum/ https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/how-chrysanthemum-tea-benefits-health https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32431180/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30827670/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36986039/ https://www.epicgardening.com/mum-varieties/ Looking for more Rooted Content? ⁠⁠Check out our corner of the internet⁠⁠! You'll find our transcripts, show notes, and so much more. *Disclaimer- This content is for entertainment purposes only. I am just a lady who likes plants, which in no way qualifies me to give you advice on well...anything, really. As always, please consult with your medical care team before making any changes to your diet or medications. * --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rooted-podcast/support

Forgiveness, Kids & Cell Phone, Masterclass, Astrology, Joy/Sorrow, The Soul Yarning, Roundabout, BONUS CONTENT: Life Is Hard, God Is Good, Let's Dance; Quotes: “The forgiveness of God is scandalously wonderful.” “The way Jesus tells us to live is always better for us.” “People want to fill in the void of doing or believing something spiritual.”

In this episode learn some great tips for your Chrysanthemum. Right now we are getting an abundance of flowers and the mums are gorgeous. Add a little fall decor to your spaces by adding a potted Chrysanthemum in containers. Listen to Ken Lain's weekly gardener podcast. You can also listen to Ken Lain's Mountain Gardener Radio Show Live Saturdays at 8 am & 11 am and again on Sundays at 8 am on KQNA, and 11:30 am on 95.5 & 99.9FM.Follow Cast11 on Facebook: https://Facebook.com/CAST11AZFollow Cast11 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cast11_podcast_network/Listen to Mountain Gardener on Cast11: https://mountaingardener.buzzsprout.com or wherever you stream podcasts.

Welcome to The Bakery Bears Video Show featuring ‘My Favourite Blanket' Join us in this episode for: 1. (1 min 16 secs) “Welcome”   Listen to our Radio Show all about gardening here https://bakerybears.com/listen/ Leaf Cutter Bees in the garden! https://www.thespruce.com/leafcutter-bees-in-your-garden-5120866  Sockoween is now underway! Catch up with Kays brand new sock knitting course here https://www.patreon.com/posts/sockoween-dpn-on-89912880   Find out our top ten autumnal movies in our latest Patron Exclusive Show https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-89758909  We spoke about https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frequency_(2000_film)    2. (8 mins 58 secs) “Whats on YOUR needles” https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/the-bakery-bears/2955474/976-1000#1000  Kay was knitting :  Staka https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/staka Watch Kays Kitchener Stitch tutorial https://www.patreon.com/posts/magic-loop-sock-19749451  Find all our garment knitting tutorials here https://bakerybears.com/garment-tutorials/  Learn how to finish off a garment with Kay https://www.patreon.com/posts/tutorial-tuesday-7776292  Kays Christmas Jumper in a bag from https://folksy.com/shops/mooandmouse/sold_items Kay showed a kit from https://www.caterpillarcrossstitch.com/  Learn to make a project bag with Kay https://www.patreon.com/posts/86285471  Learn to cross stitch with Kay https://www.patreon.com/posts/83036990  Hobbity Socks in Pixie Yarn Watch Kays Pixie Yarn review https://www.patreon.com/posts/knit-along-with-33521863  You can access the Hobbity Socks pattern here https://www.patreon.com/posts/75872429  Watch Kays Butterfly Heel Tutorial here https://www.patreon.com/posts/butterfly-heel-86679356    Dan was knitting :      Whispers in the Walls https://bakerybears.com/whispers-in-the-walls/ Learn to dye to colourway Dan's using here https://www.patreon.com/posts/after-all-this-6-70284518  Master sock knitting with our Knitting University Courses https://bakerybears.com/knitty-u/  Aran Harpa Gansey https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/harpa-aran  Find out how Kay closes the wholes under arms on garments https://www.patreon.com/posts/tutorial-part-5-7717339  Watch Kays Freckled Whimsy yarn review https://www.patreon.com/posts/freckled-whimsy-88235833   3. (52 min 45 secs) “My Favourite Blanket” Episode 11 “Chrysanthemum”    4. (1 hr 23 min 23 secs) “Whats OFF your Needles” https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/the-bakery-bears/2955477/2901-2925#2925  Quantock Hat knitted in https://www.feederbrook.com/Learn to make a bobble with Kay https://www.patreon.com/posts/8183233  Fairground Socks knitted in Freckled Whimsy Watch our Freckled Whimsy yarn review https://www.patreon.com/posts/freckled-whimsy-88235833   5. (1 hr 30 min 34 secs) “My Favourite Blanket” Episode 11 “Chrysanthemum”   Keep up to date with the My Favourite Blanket pattern https://www.patreon.com/posts/my-favourite-10-88531564     6. (1hr 47 mins 11 secs) “Endy Bits!”    Self Striping September KAL Prize giving! Prize winners contact us here https://bakerybears.com/contact/  Sockoween is now in full swing! Find out how to get involved here https://www.patreon.com/posts/sockoween-2023-89204649  Kay showed some KnitPicks Stroll & Laines du Nord   HELP KEEP US ON AIR and become a Bakery Bear Patron - You could receive a subscription to our electronic magazine Knitability, exclusive patterns, over 290 tutorials, a monthly live Patron only show, Dan's Garment Knitting shows, Kay's review series and so much more, to find out more visit: http://www.patreon.com/bakerybearspodcast or https://bakerybears.com/subscribe/  For a whole new way to engage with the Bakery Bears visit https://bakerybears.com - All Kay's patterns can be found here https://bakerybears.com/patterns/ - Find our Radio Show here https://bakerybears.com/listen/  Thank you so much for watching, we'll see you in two weeks with our next ‘Video Show' which will feature ‘The Rise & Fall of the Monasteries'! If you wish to download the show, access it here : http://bakerybears.podbean.com - Apple users will find the show here : https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-bakery-bears-podcast/id1051276128?mt=2 Follow the Bakery Bears on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/bakerybears/ and Twitter https://twitter.com/bakerybears 

In the ninth episode of Japan Memo season 3, Robert Ward and Yuka Koshino host Ambassador Sujan Chinoy, the Director General of the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA) in New Delhi who served as the Indian ambassador to Japan from 2015 to 2018; and Ambassador Masafumi Ishii, a Distinguished Visiting Professor of Gakushuin University who was the Japanese ambassador to Indonesia from 2017 to 2020. Robert, Yuka, Ambassador Chinoy and Ambassador Ishii discuss Japan's relationship with the Global South countries to navigate the complex international security and geo-economic environment amid Russia's War in Ukraine and the US-China great power competition. The guests provide their insights on the evolving significance of the Global South, Japanese policies towards India and Indonesia, and the opportunities and challenges looking ahead.Topics discussed include: The growing importance of the Global South in international affairs; Japan's engagement with ASEAN countries to deal with the Russian and Chinese challenges to rules-based international order; The political motivation of Japan for engaging with India and Indonesia to tackle global security issues; Potential role of Japan as a bridge between the West and the Global South as the chair of this year's G7; and Speaker perspectives on the opportunities and challenges in the future cooperation between Japan and the Global South. The following literature is recommended by our guests to gain a clearer picture of the topics discussed: Edwin O. Reischauer, Japan, The Story of a Nation, (Vermont: Charles E. Tuttle Co., 1988) Ruth Benedict, The Chrysanthemum and the Sword, (Indianapolis: Houghton Mifflin Co., 1946) We hope you enjoy the episode and please follow, rate, and subscribe to Japan Memo on the podcast platform of your choice. Date of Recording: 24 August 2023 Japan Memo is recorded and produced at the IISS in London. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosts: Tanya Anthony TJ     Poem 菊の露 若ゆばかりに 袖触れて 花のあるじに 千代は譲らむ   Kikunotsuyu waka yu bakari ni sode furete/ hana no aruji ni chiyo wa yuzura/ mu Murasaki Shikibu Diary poem, Modern translation: Chrysanthemum dew I brush my sleeve to gain a little youth But let she who owns the flowers have the thousand years they bring Link to Makura Jido: Noh Performance held at Horinji, Arashiyama, on 9/9: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=zxtTLfpcZrw

It's the height of summer, everything is in full bloom and for episode 237, we're talking about our favorite flowers and how they relate to feng shui. Flowers are often used in feng shui to boost the qi of a space. They are a source of fresh, uplifting energy, and bringing fresh flowers into your home is a great way to unstick anything that is feeling stuck. Flowers also invite more joy, and they invite us to contemplate the beauty in impermanence since they are so fleeting. If you want to dive deeper, be sure to sign up for our mailing list so that you can take our upcoming free workshops and giveaways!What we talk about in this episode:-How peonies can invite prosperity, luck, honor, gracefulness, elegance, cultivation.-Narcissus, one of the earliest blooming flowers after winter, and its association with good fate and good fortune.-Chrysanthemum as a symbol of longevity-The power, strength and loyalty of the sun flower.And much more.Thanks so much for listening to the Holistic Spaces Podcast brought to you by Mindful Design Feng Shui School!Sign up for our newsletter for exclusive complimentary special workshops and offers for our newsletter subscribers ONLY! Make sure you're following us on Instagram for feng shui tips and live Q&A's.Learn about our courses and certification on our website at: Mindful Design School.Check out our older episodes on our Holistic Spaces Podcast archive.MORE QUESTIONSHire one of our Mindful design school Grads for a 1-1 consultation. We know so many personal questions come up. That's why you need a 1-1! Laura and Anjie offer all these freebies, but if you want to learn more it's time to ask a professional. learn more HERETUNE IN AUGUST 14TH FOR THE NEXT HOLISTIC SPACES PODCASTNEW EPISODES OF THE HOLISTIC SPACES PODCAST BY MINDFUL DESIGN ARE AVAILABLE EVERY MONDAY.

Ruth Fulton Benedict was one of the first women to become really prominent in the field of anthropology. She had a huge impact, but she's often overshadowed by some of her students, including Zora Neale Hurston and Margaret Mead.  Research: Banner, Lois W. “Intertwined Lives: Margaret Mead, Ruth Benedict, and Their Circle.” New York. Alfred A. Knopf. 2003. Banner, Lois W. “Mannish Women, Passive Men, and Constitutional Types: Margaret Mead's Sex and Temperament in Three Primitive Societies as a Response to Ruth Benedict's Patterns of Culture.” Signs. Vol. 28, No. 3, Gender and Science: New Issues (Spring 2003). Via JSTOR. https://www.jstor.org/stable/10.1086/345325 Benedict, Ruth, 1887-1948, and Gene Weltfish. The Races of Mankind. New York: Public Affairs Committee, 1943. Borovoy, Amy. “Ruth Benedict and the Study of Japanese Culture.” UC San Diego School of Global Policy and Strategy. 8/26/2020. Via YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IfZYIGltfsE Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia. "Ruth Benedict". Encyclopedia Britannica, 13 Sep. 2022, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Ruth-Benedict. Accessed 17 May 2023. Burns, J. Conor. "Anthropology." History of Modern Science and Mathematics, edited by Brian S. Baigrie, Charles Scribner's Sons, 2002. Gale In Context: Science, link.gale.com/apps/doc/CV2640700006/GPS?u=mlin_n_melpub&sid=bookmark-GPS&xid=4a63896c. Accessed 22 May 2023. Kent, Pauline. “Japanese Perceptions of ‘The Chrysanthemum and the Sword.'” Dialectical Anthropology, June 1999, Vol. 24, No. 2 (June 1999). https://www.jstor.org/stable/29790600 Lie, John. “Ruth Benedict's Legacy of Shame: Orientalism and Occidentalism in the Study of Japan.” Asian Journal of Social Science , 2001, Vol. 29, No. 2 (2001). Via JSTOR. https://www.jstor.org/stable/23653936 Mead, Margaret and Ruth Benedict. “An Anthropologist At Work Writings Of Ruth Benedict.” Secker & Warburg. 1959. "Patterns of Culture." American Decades Primary Sources, edited by Cynthia Rose, vol. 4: 1930-1939, Gale, 2004, pp. 645-647. Gale In Context: U.S. History, link.gale.com/apps/doc/CX3490200798/GPS?u=mlin_n_melpub&sid=bookmark-GPS&xid=fa7f9002. Accessed 17 May 2023. "Ruth Fulton Benedict." Dictionary of American Biography, Charles Scribner's Sons, 1974. Gale In Context: U.S. History, link.gale.com/apps/doc/BT2310017919/GPS?u=mlin_n_melpub&sid=bookmark-GPS&xid=0181011f. Accessed 17 May 2023. "Ruth Fulton Benedict." Scientists: Their Lives and Works, UXL, 2006. Gale In Context: Science, link.gale.com/apps/doc/K2641500229/GPS?u=mlin_n_melpub&sid=bookmark-GPS&xid=4fba0976. Accessed 17 May 2023. Salamone, Frank A., 2018. “Life‑affirming versus Life‑denying Cultures : Ruth Benedict and Social Synergy”, in BEROSE International Encyclopaedia of the Histories of Anthropology, Paris. https://www.berose.fr/article1333.html?lang=en Schachter, Judith . "Ruth Benedict". In obo in Anthropology. 18 May. 2023. . Vassar Encyclopedia. “Ruth Benedict '1909.” 2009. https://vcencyclopedia.vassar.edu/distinguished-alumni/ruth-benedict/ Yong, Daniel. “Ruth Benedict: Strength in Disability.” University of Chicago. 12/13/2020. https://womanisrational.uchicago.edu/2020/12/13/ruth-benedict-strength-in-disability/ Young, Virginia Heyer. “Ruth Benedict: Beyond Relativity, Beyond Pattern.” Critical Studies in the History of Anthropology. Series editors Regna Darnell and Stephen O. Murray. University of Nebraska Press. 2005. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yu Jiangang's hometown used to be a “sea of flowers.” What was lost when the sea dried up?Click here to read the article by Yu Jiangang.Narrated by Cliff Larsen.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Last time we spoke about the situation in the north pacific and the grand conclusion of the Chindits Operation Longcloth. The battle of the Komandorski islands had basically put a nail in the coffin that was the Aleutian islands campaign for japan. They could not hope to resupply Attu and Kiska properly, therefore America had a free hand to build up to invade them. Also the crazed Onion man Wingate had taken his boys in the fray of Burma and they paid heavily for it. Yes despite all the glory and fame that the propaganda perpetuated the operation had done, in reality, Wingate had sacrifice many lives for little gain. His erratic behavior led to dangerous decision making which took a toll on the men. In the end what can be said of the operation was it atleast provided something positive to boost morale for the British in the far east. But today we are going to speak about the falling of a major giant of the pacific war. This episode is Operation Vengeance  Welcome to the Pacific War Podcast Week by Week, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about world war two? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on world war two and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel you can find a few videos all the way from the Opium Wars of the 1800's until the end of the Pacific War in 1945.  Now two weeks ago I covered Operation I-Go and you may have noticed I sprinkled a bit of foreshadowing information here and there. But to catch you back up to speed so to say let me just summarize those events and the dire circumstances what person would find himself in.  It can easily be deduced by early 1943, Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto knew Japan was staggering towards a catastrophic defeat. Rather ironically, he was one of those figures in Japan that tossed as much as his political influence could against the decision to go to war with america. He warned his high ranking colleagues of the great industrial might America held and that it would inevitably overwhelm Japan. His obsession over a decisive naval victory was driven mostly because he knew the only possible way for Japan to come out of WW2 positively was to bring America to the negotiating table as early as possible. But how does one do that exactly? Well Japan held a significant advantage over America in 1941, their Pacific Fleet was by far larger, vastly better trained and held considerable technological advantages. Thus like a game of Axis & Allies, a game I have been playing since I was a teenager and hope to livestream now and then for audiences like yourself, well like a good old game of Axis & Allies if you are the Axis you typically toss the kitchen sink at the offset of the war hoping to break the allies before their productive advantage gradually wins them the board. Yamamoto engineered the raid on Pearl Harbor to smash the US Pacific fleet enough to thwart them of any offensives for 6 months at minimum, though he definitely hoped for a year. After that his plan had always been to force america into a naval surface battle in the hopes of taking out their fleet and forcing them to negotiate. If they did not negotiate after that, well he hoped to buy Japan enough time to build a complex defensive perimeter which perhaps could be used to bleed Americans dry and thus gradually get them to come to terms. Well his obsession for the grand naval battle led him into a trap. Yes, a critical thing the Japanese overlooked during most of the Pacific War was code breaking. The Cryptanalysts at Station Hypo did miracles breaking the JN-25 code, leading them to deduce Admiral Yamamoto's operation MI was directed at Midway atoll. They had knowledge of the locations, the units and the timetables and they used this intelligence to set up a major trap for the combined fleet. The June 1942 disaster at Midway had been a major gambit aimed at forcing the war to an early conclusion, a gambit which fell apart. The losses at Midway meant the war was not to be a prolonged one, though it might surprise many of you to know, the chance of another decisive naval battle was not all but lost, it would just be harder to configure. Regardless the overall viewpoint after the failure at Midway now meant Japan had to fight a war of attrition, something Japan could not hope to win.  Yamamoto had obsessed himself and countless other high ranking figures that Midway was to be the decisive battle, but in reality it fell upon Guadalcanal. Yes the battle for Guadalcanal emerged the decisive battle they had all sought, but the Japanese high command were late to this conclusion. The Americans basically snuck onto the island in an extremely bold manner, forcing what became a horrifying bloody war. In the end the Americans won the battle for Guadalcanal and because of Japan's lackluster planning, this simultaneously led to the major loss of the Buna-Gona-Sanananda front as well. New Guinea and the Solomons were intertwined and Japan kept fumbling back and forth between them which inevitably was leading to them losing both. After the loss at Guadalcanal, Japan had lost the initiative for the Pacific War, now America was in the drivers seat. The battle of the Bismarck Sea proved to the Japanese high command, their sealanes were no longer safe. America was dominating Japan's ability to move men and supplies across the ocean through a war of attrition using airpower and submarines. The Japanese planners understood the allies were going to advance in two prongs; one through New Guinea and the other up the central and northern solomons. For the allies to advance, they required the construction of airfields along the way to provide air superiority to cover their surface fleets and transports of men and supplies. Japan had been massively depleted of ships, aircraft, trained men, resources in general, but one thing they still had an advantage over the allies was their airfields scattered about the Pacific.  On March 15th Japanese high command in Tokyo demanded plans be made to build a new defensive strategy in the central Pacific. The main idea was to build a stronger defensive perimeter emanating from Rabaul. Thus on the morning of April 3rd of 1943, Admirals Yamamoto and Ugaki, accompanied by more than a dozen officers of the combined Fleet staff boarded two Kawanishi flying boats and headed for Rabaul. Yamamoto and the high ranking figures scoured their maps and came up with what was needed to be done to meet this new demand. They needed to hinder the American airpowers advance up the Solomons and New Guinea, this meant hitting allied forward airfields. Four locations were chosen: Guadalcanal, Oro Bay, Port Moresby and Milne Bay. It was to be called Operation I-GO Sakusen and would be the responsibility of the IJN. Admirals Yamamoto and Jinichi Kusaka established temporary headquarters on Rabaul and began planning. The planning led to an incredible concentration of Japanese airpower. The 11th airfleet and 4 aircraft carriers of the 3rd fleet: Zuikaku, Zuiho, Junyo and Hiyo would amass a force of 224 aircraft. The airpower was going to be used to smash the 4 targets and then they would be dispersed to several airfields to mount a new defensive perimeter. They would be sent to places like Buka and Kahili on Bougainville and Ballale in the Shortland Islands. Admiral Yamamoto would personally supervise Operation I-GO as he took up quarters on a cottage high on a hill behind the town of Rabaul. He spent weeks inspecting airfields and other military installations, meeting with local army and navy commanders at various headquarters scattered about New Britain. As was his typical behavior, he bid farewell to departing air squadrons waving his hat to them. For 10 consecutive days, Japanese bombers and fighters hit their designated targets. More than 200 aircraft attacked Guadalcanal on April 7th, a raid larger than any attempted during the 5 month battle over the island. The Japanese pilots came back with extremely exaggerated claims of success. They claimed to have destroyed dozens of ships and hundreds of aircraft. In reality operation I-Go amounted to the destruction of 25 aircraft, 1 destroyer, 1 corvette, 1 oil tanker and 2 transports. The Japanese had lost around 40 aircraft for this.  The Japanese high command including Yamamoto and even Emperor Hirohito bought the success stories. Hirohito send word stating “Please convey my satisfaction to the Commander in Chief, Combined Fleet, and tell him to enlarge the war result more than ever.” On the other side of the conflict, General Kenney had a more damning critique of the way Yamamoto used his air forces during Operation I-Go, “… the way he [Yamamoto] had failed to take advantage of his superiority in numbers and position since the first couple of months of the war was a disgrace to the airman's profession.” The reality was, the aircrews were not the same types that raided Pearl Harbor in 1941, no these men in 1943 were forgive me to say, kind of the bottom of the barrel types. Sure there remained some veterans and experiences men, but far and too few to trained what should have been a brand new generation of Japanese airpower. Japan had squandered their veterans and now she was paying a heavy price for it. On October 25th of 1942, Rear-Admiral Ugaki had written this in his diary “every time it rained heavily, about ten planes were damaged due to skidding.” The Japanese airfields were no match for the American Seabees who were performing miracles across the pacific building superior fields for their airpower. By contrast the Japanese could not hope to match this, they lacked resources and trained personnel. Operation I-GO in the end costed the allies advance 10 days. Yamamoto had his spirits lifted somewhat by Operation I-GO believing it to be a triumph. He announced he would conduct a one-day tour of forward bases at Buin, Ballale and Shortland Island set for April the 18th and this is where our story truly begins. Yamamoto's tour was sent over the radio waves using the JN-25D naval cypher to the 11th air flotilla and the 26th air flotilla. Admiral Yamamoto's operations officer Commander Yasuji Watanabe would go on the record complaining that the information about Yamamoto's visit to the Ballalae Airfield should had been done by courier and not by radio, but the communications officer replied “this code only went into effect on april 1st and cannot be broken”. The message was picked up by three stations of the “Magic” apparatus, the United States cryptanalysis project. One of the three stations ironically was the same team responsible for breaking the codes that led to Midway, station Hypo at Pearl Harbor. Major Alva B. Lasswell, a duty officer at Joseph Rochefort's Combat Intelligence Unit Station HYPO deciphered it and pronounced it to be a "jackpot". The message contained highly detailed information and it was easy to deduce the message was about Yamamoto. It contained his departure time: April 18, 06:00 Japanese Standard Time, 08:00 Guadalcanal Time set for Ballale, 08:00 Japanese Standard Time, 10:00 Guadalcanal Time.; his aircraft which was a G4M Betty and the number of his escorts, 6 Zeros; as well as the entire itinerary for his tour. Admiral Yamamoto's plane was going to be heading over the southern end of Bougainville on the morning of the 18th, a location that happened to be just within the fighter range of Henderson Field. Alva Bryan Lasswell and intelligence officer Jasper Holmes took the decrypted message to CINCPAC headquarters and handed it to the fleet intelligence officer Ed Layton who tossed it upon Admiral Nimitz desk a few minutes after 8 on April 14.  Nimitz scrutinized the chart on his wall and confirmed himself that Yamamoto's plane would enter airspace that could be reached by american fighters from Henderson. “He asked Layton “Do we try to get him?”. The question honestly was a tough one. Was it wrong to target the combined fleet chief based on some sort of convention upon military chivalry? Like most naval officers, Nimitz had interacted socially with Japanese officers during the interwar years. Nimitz was not a particularly vengeful nor bloody-minded man. In era's past, an American flag or general officer would certainly refuse to have his rival commander assassinated. For you American listeners, can you conceive George Washington ordering a hit on William Howe? How about Robert E Lee ordering a hit on Ulysses Grant? However war in the 20th century was not like the previous centuries. Hell even by the standards of the war in europe, the Pacific War was unbelievably more brutal. Honestly if you wanted a good book on the subject of how brutal the Pacific war was, try John D Dowers “War without Mercy: Race & Power in the Pacific War”.  Now during the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905, cough cough if you want to hear about that one check out my Youtube channel, the IJA and IJN had strictly adhered to the rules of war. Russian prisoners were housed well, fed well, provided good medical care, given cigarettes and alcohol, the 2nd one very important to russians as we know haha. Those who died within captivity were even buried with military honors. During WW1 the Japanese took German prisoners after the siege of Tsingtau and treated them extremely well in Japan, let them parade the country with a band and such. In fact the treatment of the German POW's had a small hand to play in how Japan got into bed with Germany later, and honestly to this very day Japan and Germany have this special relationship. However, Japan certainly did not bring this type of chivalrous etiquette into the Pacific War.  Nimitz may have hesitated to give the order, but he knew full well of the Japanese actions in China, the Philippines, Malaya, Hong Kong, the East Indies, the Solomons. I guess you can say barbarity dishes out barbarity. Yet aside from the morality question, was it wise to kill Yamamoto? This was after all the man who planned and executed the disastrous Midway offensive losing 4 aircraft carriers with nearly all their aircraft. Yamamoto had also mismanaged the guadalcanal campaign by deploying air and troop reinforcements in piecemeals. He arguably was doing a good job losing the war. Layton knew Yamamoto personally and argued that he was the best-respected military leader in Japan and that his death “He's unique among their people… Aside from the Emperor, probably no man in Japan is so important to civilian morale. [His absence] would demoralize the fighting navy. You know Japanese psychology; it would stun the nation.”. Layton said to Nimitz “You know, Admiral Nimitz, it would be just as if they shot you down. There isn't anybody to replace you”. To this Nimitz smiled amusingly and replied “it's down in Halsey's bailiwick, if there's a way, he'll find it. All right, we'll try it”. Thus sealed the fate of Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto. Thus Admiral Nimitz sent a “your eyes only” message to Admiral Halsey, alerting him to the situation and ordering a fighter interception with the concluding remarks “best of luck and good hunting”. Codenamed Operation Vengeance approved on the 14th, the assassination of Admiral Yamamoto was done under utmost secrecy to protect the cryptanalysis teams. It just so happened Halsey had already been informed of the operation in a chance encounter in Melbourne Australia. He was inspecting naval facilities in the city and dropped by the communications intelligence office where a yeoman named Kenneth Boulier was working on one of the draft decrypts. Halsey came to his desk and asked “what are you working on son?”. And when Boulier explained, Halsey raised his voice and addressed the entire unit “Goddamit, you people knock off this Yamamoto business! I'm going to get that sonofabitch myself!”. I guess one can say he was enthusiastic about the job. Halsey informed his subordinate air commanders, Admirals Aubrey Fitch and Marc Mitscher about the details of Operation vengeance. Southern Bougainville was roughly 400 miles away from Henderson field and the aircraft would need to take a roundabout route to evade detection. Thus the mission would require 1000 miles or so of flying, a range that would test the capabilities of even the longest legged American fighters. AirSols commander Mitscher called for a secret meeting of his staff on April 16th to figure out the logistics of the operation. It was determined that to intercept Yamamoto's flight, they should use Lockheed P-38 Lightnings which held a comparable range to that of the Zero fighter, though it would not alone be enough. They would need to use a lean fuel mixture and drop tanks to barely make the long flight. It was going to be quite tight, thus the timing had to be precise, or else the aircraft would burn their fuel while waiting for the enemy to make their appearance. Major John Mitchell of the 339th fighter squadron was assigned the commander of 18 P-38's piloted by handpicked airmen. 4 P-38's would be designated as “killers”, ie: the guys who would target Yamamoto's G4M Betty, while the other pilots would cover them against the Zero escorts. The killers were to be Captain Thomas Lanphier, Lieutenants Rex Barber, Joseph Moore and James McLanahan. They were going to intercept Yamamoto in the air just south of Empress August Bay.  Now the direct flight to Bougainville meant crossing over or very close to Japanese held islands which held observers. This meant they would need to veer far out to sea to avoid any visual contact made by Japanese coastwatchers. Likewise they would skim the ocean at wave-top height to avoid detection by Japanese radar. Mitchell plotted their missions course to remain at least 50 miles offshore. This also meant they would have no landmarks to use as checkpoints: it would have to be dead reckoning the entire way, flying by airspeed, clock and compass under strict radio silence for over 2 hours, until they saw the Bougainville coast. The strike force would depart guadalcanl at 7:20. Even after all the precision and planning, the lightning force would only have around 15 minutes to shoot down Yamamoto, this was a extremely tight one. Mitchell gave the odds of the operation succeeded about a thousand to one. Back over in Rabaul commanders like Admirals Ozawa and Jojima were trying to change Yamamotos mind about making the tour to the forward airbases thinking he was taking a large risk. Adamiral Ozawa argued with Captain Kameto Kuroshima, a senior member of Yamamoto's staff “If he insists on going, six fighters are nothing like enough. Tell the chief of staff that he can have as many of my planes as he likes.” Admiral Ugaki who was sick in the hospital with dengue ever tried to send a message to Yamamoto to not go on the tour. That message though it did not make it to Yamamoto directly was interceived by Admiral Jojima. Admiral Jojima argued “what a damn fool thing to do, to send such a long and detailed message about the activities of the Commander of the combined fleet so near the front. This kind of thing must stop” Jojima had actually flown over to Rabaul to stop Yamamoto, but Yamamoto did not back down. Yamamoto was a stickler for punctuality, he alongside his party arrived to Rabaul's Lakuni field a few minutes before 6am Japan time, thus around 8am rabaul time. The party wore their field green khai uniforms and airmens boots, aside from Yamamoto who wore his customary white dress uniform, with his usual white gloves carrying his ceremonial sword. Yamamoto climbed into one of the two G4M Betty medium bmbers and Ugaki climbed into the other. Yamamoto's Betty had the number 323 painted on its vertical stablizer. The planes roared down the runway and climbed. The weather was clear, with excellent visibility above and below the high ceiling. The aircraft leveled out at 6500 with the bombers holding a close formation, enough for Ugaki to clearly see Yamamoto through the windshield of the other plane. The fighters hung out at 8200 feet above them and around a mile around them. The formation headed southeast making its first landfall on the southern tip of new ireland, then south along the coast of Bougainville, past the Japanese bases at Buka and Kieta, then on to Ballale. Ugaki began to nod off as the group began its descent towards Ballale.    Major Mitchells strike group launched at 7:10 guadalcanal time, seeing 2 lightnings fail as a result of a blown tire for one and a fuel transfer problem for the other. Both aircraft were part of the killers team, thus Lieutenants Besby Holmes and Raymond Hine, were replaced with Joseph Moore and James McLanahan. Not a great way to start such a precise mission by any means. As they made the first leg of their route, the P-38's descended to 50 feet to avoid radar detection while the pilots had to endure extremely hot temperatures due to the sea level. The temperature was above 90 degrees as the sun blazed through their Perspex canopies causing the pilots to sweat like pigs. The P-38 was a high altitude fighter and its canopy could not open in flight to regulate the cockpit temperature. Thus instead it kind of acted like a convection oven, building up heat as the sun beat down on it. With nothing but hte sight of rolling waves for over 2 hours, the pilots could have very well dozed off. After 55 minutes of hte first leg, Mitchell turned right to 290 degrees then after another 27 minutes, 305 degrees. 38 minutes after this another 20 degree turn to make the 40 mile leg to the south edge of Empress Bay, all using clocks & compass.  As they crossed the bay they turned 90 degrees and were around 4 minutes from their calculated interception point. The lightnings began to close in and made sight of the southwest corner of Bougainville. In an act of extraordinary navigation they hit the precise location intended at 9:34am, a single minute ahead of schedule. Right on top of them, passing serenly overhead was the Yamamoto and unfortuntately for him, security was quite lax. You see the Japanese held air superiority at Buin, thus they did not anticipate any enemy action. Alongside this the escort zero's had their radiots stripped out to reduce their weight. This meant they would not be able to communicate with the Betty's. Ugaki's Betty was carrying its regular armament of 3 13mm guns and 1 20mm gun, but because of the weight of the munition boxes, only a single belt was filled up for each. As for Yamamoto's Betty, there does not seem to be evidence it was armed at all. Mitchell was shocked to see the two Betty bombers, the intelligence had told them one. This somewhat disrupted his plan not knowing where the escorts were hiding, futhermore 2 lightnings piloted by Lieutenants Besby Holmes and Raymond Hine had to pull out when their belly tanks were released and it caused a technical problem. Thus Mitchell had only half the fighters as planned and now faced double the Betty's. He did not know which Betty was Yamamoto's, but with icy resolve he did not improvise the plan and ordered Captain Lamphier to attack as planned stating “he's your meat, tom”. The rest of the lightnings climbed to perform CAP actions as Mitchell expected the Japanese air base at Kahili to toss some zeros over to greet Yamamoto. None would come, another toss of the dice of fate as it were. As Ugaki recounts the event, at 9:43 he was awoken when his plane suddenly began a steep diving turn. The pilot was unsure what was happening, but all of a sudden evasive maneuvers of the Zero escorts alerted him something was wrong. The dark green canopy of the jungle hills were closing in on them as the gunnery opened up the gun ports to prepare firing. Between the rushing wind from the openings and the guns things were incredibly noisy. Ugaki told the pilot to try and remain with Yamamoto's plane, but it was too late. As Ugaki's plane banked south he caught a glimpse of Yamamoto's plane “staggering southward, just brushing the jungle top with reduced speed, emitting black smoke and flames.” Ugaki lost visual contact for some time then only saw a column of smoke rising rom the jungle. Ugaki's pilot flew over Cape Moira and out to sea, descending steadily to gain speed. Two lightnings were on their ass and some .50 caliber rounds slammed into their wings and fuselage. The pilot frantically trid pulling up, but his propellers dug into the sea causing the Betty to roll hard to the left. Ugaki was tossed from his seat and slammed agianst an interior bulkhead. As water flooded the aircraft he thought “this is the end of Ugaki”. But luckily for him, and 3 other passengers they managed to get free and swim to the beach as they were helped ashore by Japanese soldiers and transported to Buin. Despite his miraculous survival, Ugaki's injuries were severe, including a severed radial artery and compound fracture of the right arm, which would leave him out of action until 1944 From the American point of few, they came upon the Japanese formation catching them by complete surprise. The escorting Zeros were flying above the bombers, scanning hte horizon ahead of them to the south and now suspected American fighters would be approaching them from behind at a lower altitude. There are quite a few accounts of how this went down, but by all of them Lamphier climbed to the left, going nose to nose with 3 escorting Zeros, while Lt Rex Barber banked to the right. In response all 6 of the Zeros made a straight dive from their higer altitude position to get between the bombers and the lightnings. Rather than firing directly at the American fighters, they kept their firing infront of the lightnings trying to prevent their line of sight meeting up with the bombers. With the eruption of the choas, both Betty's accelerated into their dives, distancing themselves. One plane banked right going southwest towards the shoreline while the other banked left going east. Now what follows next has actually been a fight going on for decades with all participants going to their grave swearing their perspective was the legitimate account of the event. Lamphier's story, which is by far the most well known, states he quickly engaged the 3 diving Zeros to the left, managing to shoot down one before twisting away to attack the Betty's. He found the lead Betty skimming the jungle, heading for Kahili and dived in pursuit of it. With the other 2 zeros chasing to cut him off, Lamphier held course and fired a long steady burst across the Betty's course of flight. He watched the Betty's right engine and right wing catch on fire and in his words “the bomber's wing tore off. The bomber plunged into the jungle. It exploded. That was the end of Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto.” While racing out over the open sea towards Moila Point, Ugaki himself was horrified to see the funeral pyre of Yamamoto's crashed bomber. But at the same time, Rex Barber tells a different story.  Rex claims Lamphier's initial maneuver going to the left was smart, as it allowed Barber the opportunity to attack the bombers without the Zeroes being on his tail. Thus Rex banked sharply to the right to fall in behind one of the Betty's. At around 1000 feet above the jungle canopy, Rex opened fire, aiming over the fuselage at the right engine. Rex could see chunks of the Betty's engine and fires emerge as he continued to ranke the Bettey with his guns, until the Betty suddenly stopped in mid-air, nearly colliding with him before crashing into the jungle below. Rex also claimed the Betty did not fire back at all. The zero escorts however did catch up to him, but the sudden appearance of Lt's Besby Holmes and Raymond Hine saved him as they shot down the 3 zeros.  Heading to the coasts, Holmes and Hine pursued the remaining Betty and fired upon it scoring some hits. Rex also dropped in behind what is assumed to be Ugaki's Betty firing a burst over it before it hit the water. Holmes claimed to have shot down Ugaki's Betty by himself. Rex states that “Holmes rounds must have hit the tanks and filled the bomber swings with gas fumes, because the ship exploded in his face”. As Rex flew through the black smoke and debris a large chunk of the Betty hit his right wing cutting out his turbo supercharger intercooler. Meanwhile Holmes and Hine were dog fighting two more Zeros. Holmes would claim to have shot one of the zeros down, making his total around 3 Zeros and one betty; Hine's lightning was damaged in the fight forcing him to head east out to sea with smoke trailing his engine. Hine would be last seen around 9:40am, he was to be the only allied casualty of operation Vengeance. With both Betty's down, the mission was done and Mitchell ordered a withdrawal. The lightning's each headed home individually, operating at the limit of their range and suffering the hot weather. The controversy over who shot down Yamamoto's aircraft would begin the moment the pilots got back to base. In the words of Lt Julius Jacobson “there were 15 of us who survived, and as far as who did the effective shooting, who cares?” Yamamoto's plane had gone down about 4 miles inland, in a remote part of the jungle. Search parties took over a day to find the wreck. On April 20th they found the wrecked aircraft, there were no survivors. According to eyewitness testimony, Yamamoto was found sitting upright, still strapped to his seat, with one white gloved hand resting upon his katana. Yamamoto's watch had stopped at 0745hrs. A bullet had entered his lower jaw and went out from his temple; another pierced his shoulder blade. Yamamoto's body was wrapped in banyan leaves and carried down a trail to the mouth of the Wamai River, where it was taken to Buin by sea. His body would be cremated alongside the 11 other men aboard that Betty,  in a pit filled with brushwood and gasoline and his ashes were flown back to Truk and deposited on a Buddhist altar in the Musashi's war operations room.  New's of Yamamoto's death was at first restricted to a small circle of ranking officers, and passageways around the operations room and the commander in chiefs cabin were placed off limits. But the truth eventually leaked out to the crew of Musashi. Admiral Ugaki was seen in bandages holding a white box containing Yamamoto's ashes as he came aboard and the smell of incense wafted from his cabin. Admiral Mineichi Koga was named the new commander in chief. For over a month the news was kept under wraps. On May 22nd, Yamamoto's death was heard on the NHK news. The announcer broke into tears as he read the announcement. A special train carried the slain admiral's ashes from Yokosuka to Tokyo. An imperial party, including members of the royal household and family greeted its arrival at Ueno Station. As diarist Kiyoshi Kiyosawa noted “There is widespread sentiment of dark foreboding about the future course of the war”. Admiral Yamamoto was awarded posthumously the Grand Order of the Chrysanthemum, first class and the rank of Fleet admiral. His funeral was held on June 5th, the first anniversary of the battle of Midway, which also coincided with the funeral of the legendary Admiral Togo Heihachiro, 9 years previously. It was held in Hibiya park with hundreds of thousands coming to pay their respects. Pallbearers were selected from among the petty officers of the Musashi, carrying his casket draped in white cloth past the Diet and Imperial Palace. The Navy band played Chopin's funeral march as the casket was driven to Tama Cemetery where it was placed in a grave alongside that of Admiral Togo. Some sought to make a Yamamoto shrine, but his close friend Admiral Mitsumasa Yonai said “Yamamoto hated that kind of thing. If you deified him, he'd be more embarrassed than anybody else”.  The new commander in chief of the combined fleet, Admiral Koga Mineichi would later say “There was only one Yamamoto and no one is able to replace him. His loss is an unsupportable blow to us.”  I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. Operation Vengeance was a success, leading to the death of the legendary, Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto. Would his death help or worsen the allied war effort? For that question to be answered only time could tell.

Today, Lainey and I read Chrysanthemum written by Kevin Henkes.

Scott Joplin - The Chrysanthemum Benjamin Loeb, piano More info about today's track: Naxos 8.559277 Courtesy of Naxos of America, Inc. Subscribe You can subscribe to this podcast in Apple Podcasts, or by using the Daily Download podcast RSS feed. Purchase this recording Amazon

Our beloved guest host and artist, Elisabeth Condon, and her series "Elisabeth Condon Describes a Painting!" are back for a new installment! This time Elisabeth chose to describe Joseph Stella's oil on canvas painting "Tree of My Life" from 1919 that she saw at The Norton Museum in "Joseph Stella: Visionary Nature." The show is traveling next to the High Museum and to the Brandywine Museum. It was an honor to have Elisabeth's wild and wonderful way of looking at painting again on the pod. See "Joseph Stella: Visionary Nature" in person/online: Norton Museum (since closed): https://tinyurl.com/yhv3paaw High Museum (Feb-May 2023): https://tinyurl.com/szewk7f8 Brandywine Museum of Art (June-Sept 2023): https://tinyurl.com/yry6cry4 Barbara Rose's 1997 Essay "Flora" on Joseph Stella: https://www.tfaoi.org/aa/7aa/7aa792.htm Joseph Stella works mentioned: "Tree of My Life," "The Voice of the City of New York Interpreted," "Brooklyn Bridge," "Battle of Lights, Coney Island" More About Elisabeth Condon: Web: https://www.elisabethcondon.com/ | IG: @elisabethcondon Solo at Emerson Dorsch Gallery late 2023: https://emersondorsch.com/artist/elisabeth-condon/ Florida Art in State Buildings/Univ of South Fla, May 2023: https://tinyurl.com/5n8ycr8m Painting at Freight & Volume Gallery: http://www.freightandvolume.com/ Artists Mentioned: Philip Guston, 4 Gentlemen of the Orchid, Bamboo, Chrysanthemum & Plum, Chinese Scroll Painting, Charles Burchfield, Odilon Redon, Paul Gauguin's "Vision and the Sermon," Hieronymus Bosch, Dziga Vertov's "Man with a Movie Camera," Marcel Duchamp's "Fountain," Agnes Pelton, Henri Rousseau's Paris paintings, Umberto Boccioni & the Italian Futurists, Precisionists: Sheeler, Demuth & Schamberg, Patrick Henry Bruce, Diego Velázquez, Rembrandt, William Merritt Chase, Robert Henri, Alfred Stieglitz, Georgia O'Keeffe, Marsden Hartley Writers mentioned: Barbara Rose, Immanuel Kant, Gaston Bachelard's "Poetics of Space," Henri-Louis Bergson, Lewis Mumford, Walter Conrad Arensberg, Gertrude Stein, Maurice Tuchman Eps mentioned: #38 (Elisabeth Condon Describes a Painting #1) and #15 (Review of "Spiritual in Art: Abstract Painting 1890-1985") ---------------------------- Pep Talks on IG: @peptalksforartists Pep Talks on Art Spiel as written essays: https://tinyurl.com/7k82vd8s Amy's Interview on Two Coats of Paint: https://tinyurl.com/2v2ywnb3 Amy's website: https://www.amytalluto.com/ Amy on IG: @talluts Buy Me a Coffee Donations appreciated! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/peptalksforartistspod/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/peptalksforartistspod/support

various figures are made out of fresh chrysanthemum flowers - #3334 by chair house 01302023.mp3various figures are made out of fresh chrysanthemum flowersいつだって穏やかで優しく美しいフランです。ではでは．．☆☆☆☆☆■ＰＳ１：最近世界スポーツ界での日本人の活躍がすごすぎます。野球での大谷さんが起爆剤だったのでしょうか。バス..

Have you donated to the Chrysanthemum Challenge yet? If you haven't, listen up! Christine M. Perry, who in her newest Lambda Kappa Sigma endeavor, joins LambTaLKS as chair of the Chrysanthemum Challenge Task Force to inform the membership about this exciting new initiative. Tune in to learn how you can be a part of accelerating Lambda Kappa Sigma into its newest era as we continue to elevate women in pharmacy. To learn more about LambTaLKS or Lambda Kappa Sigma, please visit LKS.org. Please send any feedback or questions to LambTaLKSPodcast@lks.org. To donate to the Chrysanthemum Challenge, please visit https://lks.org/chrysanthemum-challenge/

Let's formulate an herbal winter tea blend! Or actually, no matter what the season is currently, let's learn about some basic herbal formulation principles which take climate and season into account. This is what's in my favorite decoction at the moment and how I make it: First I boil a few slices of Ginger with Dandelion root and a teaspoon full of my so-called Chai base (freshly ground up Cinnamon, Cardamom, Clove and long Pepper/Pippali), and I simmer this for 30 minutes. Then I add my aromatic flowers and leaves, Chrysanthemum, Tulsi and Spearmint and steep for 5 to 10 minutes. To balance the bitterness I sometimes add a few green dried Stevia leaves or chopped Licorice root for sweetness. Can you guess the therapeutic benefits of this combination? How could you adapt this blend to YOUR specific needs and seasonal circumstances? Maybe you want to add a bit of Eleuthero root for more energy, Burdock to keep your skin clear through liver support, or something moistening/demulcent to balance the potential dryness of the herb blend, like Linden (Tilia) or Marshmallow root, or maybe some extra digestive support with Fennel and Anise. It's more about grasping the concept and experimenting for yourself! Enjoy! Would you like to come to my online classes on zoom? We have exciting topics coming up, and the reduced price is available for all who sign up before the end of December! You can ask me your questions directly, in class, that's what I most enjoy about these classes, that we can actually discuss and interact. Please sign up for the Herb Student Membership on Ko-Fi and you will be notified about the next classes. You also get access to the recordings of 20plus of my herbal videos and mini-classes, and herbal case studies! A lot of great material to help you learn and deepen your understanding of medicinal herbs and empower you to use herbs in a safe and effective way! Would you like to work with me one-on-one and book your Online Health Consultation? Send me a message through the contact form on my website: www.herbalhelp.net Or click on my calendar to book a free 20 min call to get your questions answered directly! I am a professional, clinical Herbalist registered with the American Herbalists Guild and would love to give you personalized help! Join my free herbal channel on Telegram! You just have to download and set up the Telegram App on your phone first (it's easy!), then click this link to join my channel. YouTube Channel: Herbal Help by Tamara Follow me on Instagram: herbal.help If you like the show please let others know and write me a review! You can rate me on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other apps, and it's super easy, just click on this link. This show is meant for educational purposes only. This is not health advice. Please send me a message through the contact form on my website. I love to hear from my listeners and get feedback! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/downtoearthherbalism/message

Diane and Sean discuss arguably Steven Spielberg's greatest cinematic achievement, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Episode music is  "Flying" by John Williams, from the OST.-  Our theme song is by Brushy One String-  Artwork by Marlaine LePage-  Why Do We Own This DVD?  Merch available at Teepublic-  Follow the show on social media:-  IG: @whydoweownthisdvd-  Twitter: @whydoweownthis1-  Follow Sean's Plants on IG: @lookitmahplantsSupport the show