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Blending Our Lives.by T. Foxal. Listen to the ► Podcast at Connected.Chapter 20.The next morning I was awakened by a beautiful sensation on my hardened shaft. Carrie was licking and sucking me. When my hand caressed her face, she popped off of it and looked at me. “I couldn't help it Babe. It was so hard and wanting attention. Lay back and enjoy.”I smiled at her and said, “You know, if you are quiet, I too, could be licking and sucking something as you do that.” She smiled and moved so we could 69. As her damp panty clad cunt came down to me, my fingers moved the fabric to the side and I began enjoying her sexy slit.It wasn't long before Carrie's body stiffened and she began to cum. I have no idea how she kept from yelling out, like she usually does, but she managed. I was already close when she started cumming, and that just helped me along, because about a minute later I was ejaculating into her mouth, which she somehow kept in and swallowed. After taking one last lick, she came off of me and moved so we could kiss. It was a very passionate kiss, that we both could taste our handy work. After kissing, she looked at me and said, “Good Morning Honey. I like this new mouthwash we use.”, then giggled softly.After resting a bit, I had to get up and pee. Carrie just snuggled back under the covers and smiled at me. It was only 6:30 in the morning, but I was up now. I told her I needed some coffee. She said that I should make two cups and bring one back for her. I looked down at her and said, “You getting used to this morning service young lady?” “You betcha Baby.” then directed me to where the coffee pods were for her Keurig.As I entered the kitchen, lo and behold, Chief was sitting at the table, drinking coffee and reading the newspaper. I didn't even think that the paper was even delivered anymore. I red the news online. “Morning Chief” He looked up and said, “Morning Mark.” Good sign I thought. At least he didn't call me Shitbird, or any other name.I got my coffee and started to get Carrie her's. John cleared his throat and told me to take a seat. “So Mark. Tell me what's up with my little girl. I know they found some spot on one of her ovaries.”“Trust me John. That's about all I know. It took some prying to get that out of her. Hell, she was going to send me packing because of this. No way would I walk away from her, especially with something like that. But, I think it is just a cyst, that time and some meds will take care of.”He just stared then said, “Mark. Honestly, I am an overprotective father, and grandfather. I just want only the best for my two girls. I know you and I like you. You have always been a man about things and someone I can trust, unlike that fuck knuckle she was married too. I never trusted that guy from the first day I met him. I know from just looking at Carrie, she is in love with you, and judging how you look at her, the same is true for you. All I ask, is don't play games with her. Either be all in, or all out. I don't want her hurt again. As for her cyst, or whatever it is, I'm sure it is nothing. Connie has had those in the past.”“Sir. And I mean sir as respect as her father. We both know that we had to call officers sir, but we both know they couldn't fight their way out of a paper bag, with a knife and directions on where to cut. But John, truthfully, this is the real deal for us and me. I have never let a woman into my life before. I saw too much when I was in. How they were in love but deployment after deployment, took a toll on those marriages and most ended in divorce, so I never got into that situation. But your daughter has my heart and soul now and I will do anything for her.”He chuckled then said, “Well, I am not complaining. I've seen the same as you. I got real lucky with Connie. We have been together almost 43 years now, married 42 of them. She is the love of my life. Best thing that ever happened to me. How she endured all of my deployments, I'll never know. But I never took her for granted. Every time I was gone, I hurt inside, but I'd never show you assholes that side of me. I made sure when I was home, that she, and Carrie were the only things important to me. And I always acted like we were dating. We had date night a couple times a week. I don't mean sex either. Taking her to dinner, or a movie, or anything that she had an interest in. You do that, and you'll have a very happy home life. And, the sex is great too, even to this day.”“Yeah Chief, Really? Last night?” I said and laughed. He just chuckled and told me “Hey. When she wants it, who am I to deny her”, then laughed again.“Deny Who?” we both heard, and there, standing near us was Carrie. She walked over and behind her dad. Put her arms around him and kissed his head. “Morning Daddy. So who weren't you denying.”“Nothing Princess. Some things you don't need to know.” then laughed. She looked at me and said, “Glad I wasn't dying of thirst Honey” then shot me a glare. “Sorry Babe. But your dad wanted to speak with me. Here, let me get yours now.”, then laughed. Her dad then chimed in, “Christ Carrie, you broke him already. 20 years in the Marines and never broke the man, and you do it in two weeks.”“Mwah? Not me. But you know those Gyrene's, they sometimes need direction. They're not as cool as us Navy people.” then laughed, which made us all laugh. I was glad to see her sense of humor back, and the twinkle in her eye.We were gone most of the day. There was a huge craft show at this one park they we stayed at for most of the afternoon. I did learn that John got into woodworking as a hobby now. He said he always wanted to do that, but being away so long, he never found the time. At one point, I found myself with Connie, while Carrie was with her dad, looking at something a few booths down from us.“Mark. I am so happy you came into Carrie's life. I have never seen her this alive before, except when she took in Jenny. I know that you are worried about her, with whatever this growth is. As I told her last night, it is probably nothing, but a simple cyst. I have had 4 in my lifetime, and they always go away. The specialist will know better on Tuesday. I bet they don't even do an exploratory on her. Her lab results will tell the tale. Her doctor should have eased her mind some, but some reason didn't. Just be there for her, no matter what. That's all I ask.”I told her I would. After a bit we headed to this little Italian place her parents knew of, for dinner. John picked up this tab, although I was willing too, but he told me my money was no good tonight. I did invite them to join us the next day at my sister's, but Connie said they already had made plans to spend the day with Jenny and Alan.After dinner we headed back to Carrie's. I stated I needed to go home and get some clothes. Carrie offered to go with me. But I told her stay and enjoy her time with her parents. I wouldn't be long. Just needed to shave and shower and get some more clothes. I was back within an hour. We stayed up some and chatted more, then we all retired to bed. After the I love you's, Carrie said she wished we were alone right now, and that she needed me inside her. I just held her close and told her soon Baby, soon.Chapter 21.We left for my sister's around noon. The get together was to start at 1pm, but I wanted to see Ann before any others arrived. I knew she would just love Carrie, there was no question in my mind. She'd probably love any woman who could tie me down. Ann and my brother in law have been married 18 years. They have two kids, Kyle, who will turn 16 in November, and Katie, who turned 14 yesterday. They have a very nice and modern house, which they moved into a few years back.Ann met us at the door, when we pulled into the drive. She is 41, same as Carrie, and stands 5'6, 130 pounds. She has dirty blond hair, and blue eyes. She is a spit fire too. Never afraid to speak her mind and tell you like it is. She has tried, unsuccessfully, to fix me up with a multitude of her friends or single neighbors. Nothing ever came to pass with them. A few became sex buddy's, but that was it. None ever made my heart beat fast, or my stomach tighten up in a knot, like Carrie does.After the introductions were made, and a few cracks about how Carrie somehow managed to corral me in, the girls went off to the kitchen, while Brad, Kyle and I went to the family room to watch some football. Eventually, my uncle and aunt showed up, along with 2 of their kids and grandkids. Also was some of my sister's neighbors and friends too. Two of which I had dated, but nothing was ever said around Carrie. At one point, Ann got me alone and said, “I love that woman. She is so right for you. You better not fuck this up little brother.”We stayed until after eating and cake was served, and presents opened. I did not what to get a 14 year old, so I went the safe way and got her a card with $100 visa gift card. She loved that. I signed the card from Uncle Mark and Carrie. When she gave me a hug and a kiss, she whispered in my ear, “I like her Unc. I hope she will be my aunt one day.” I just smiled at her, knowing full well that was my plan too.Carrie's parents left Tuesday morning, to visit, and stay with Connie's sister Bev. Connie did tell me to call her if there was anything wrong, after the doctor visit. I did not stay Monday night at Carrie's. I figure they all needed a break from me. Of course Carrie really did not like that, but I thought it best. We've laid a lot on her parents by being together as a couple and actually sleeping together.I went with Carrie to the doctor's office and sat with her in the waiting room. The whole time, I held her hand and at times, felt as though she was crushing mine, because she was so nervous. Once she was called, I stayed in the waiting room. About forty minutes later, a nurse called for me to come with her. She led me to an office that had Carrie and the doctor.I looked at Carrie and she was smiling. The doctor introduced himself to me, and I did the same. He then looked over some papers, then looked at Carrie.“Ms. Reynolds, you can rest assured that you do not have any tumor, benign, or cancerous. It is what we call a functional cyst. It is a sack that usually contains an egg, then releases that egg during your monthly cycle. The sack normally then goes away. Well this one did not, as of yet. They sometimes don't, which is what has happened to you. It may take a few weeks, but it will go away, and when you come back in three weeks, if it hasn't, we'll give you some medication that will help with that process. Otherwise, you are very healthy. If you have stopped having intimate relations, like many women do at this time, you are very safe to resume, and did not need to stop in the first place. I only say this, because that is the first question I am usually asked.” he said with a slight chuckle.As we were driving home, Carrie was all smiles. This was a huge relief for her, and me too. Maybe our lives could get back on track, after this slight derailment. I asked her if she was hungry, but she said no. She just wanted to get home.After arriving, she excused herself and went upstairs. Lord knows what she was doing, but I finally heard heard coming down the stairs. When I looked up, there she stood, with this white lace Baby doll outfit on. You talk about sexy looking. “Oh My Sweetie. You look absolutely beautiful and very sexy”“Thank you Honey. I feel absolutely sexy right now and I need you to make love to me all afternoon.”She grabbed my hand and led me upstairs to her bed. I did not waste any time in disrobing. My cock was as hard as a rock, before my boxers hit the floor. As I stripped, Carrie got on the bed and lay there, with her legs spread wide, inviting me to take her. Her white thong barely covered her moist sex, and the top did not hide the excitement she felt , with her nipples already hard as pebbles on her beautiful tits.I kneeled between her legs and slipped my fingers under her thongs waistband and gently tugged them down and off of her body. Her labia was glistening in the afternoon sunlight, filtering through the window. I leaned in and blew on her sex, which elicited a moan from her. Then lightly licked her swollen lips. “Later Baby. I need you inside me now” she softly said.I rubbed my head all over her soaking wet slit and then slowly inserted the head. “Oh Gawd” she moaned out. I slowly inched my way into her inner being, which was so soft, and so hot. “God. You feel so good Carrie.”My mouth lowered to her chest, as I sucked in one fabric cover tit. She arched her back some, like she was giving me her tit. I then sucked the other one, which made her moan so loud. Then I moved up and started kissing her. Her legs wrapped around me and we made slow, and very passionate love to one another. Neither of could hold back though. We were like teenagers doing it for the first time, and erupted in orgasm. I shot first. As I was shooting my love juice deep inside her, Carrie crushed me with her legs as this set her off on her own orgasm. Her nails dug into my back, but neither of us cared. My grip around her neck was tight as well. I felt like I hadn't cum in ages. As we settled down, we lay in each other's arms, panting from our euphoric bliss.I was still inside her, and surprisingly, still hard as well. I gently rolled us over, so she was now on top. Our lips still together. Our tongues exploring every inch of tongue. I loved her kisses, but best of all, I loved her more than ever. She sat up on me and looked down at me, smiling. Then slowly removed her teddy from her body, exposing her beautiful tits to me.“My God. You are so beautiful Carrie. You can stay her all day like this.” I told her. She smiled then said, “I had all intentions of doing this all day.” then she started to giggle. I asked what was so funny.“Last night, after we went to bed, I was laying here missing the hell out of you by the way, but I had to endure another night of my parents going at it. You have no idea how horny that made me.” she exclaimed. I asked, “Did you take care of that?”She sort of blushed, then laughed and said, “Yeah. I did. All I could think of was you, making love to me. This sure beats my fingers, or any toy I have.”I chuckled and said, “Wish I could have watched that. That would be so sexy to see.”“Maybe one day I will let you watch. But right now, Fuck me Babe. Fuck me so good”Later that evening, after napping and then showering together, we headed out to dinner at a local bar and grill. Afterwards, I brought her over to my house for the first time.She was in awe of it, just coming down the driveway. The house is big. It is 4 bedroom, Victorian style farm house. It was, at one time, 5 bedrooms. But my grandfather combined two bedrooms into one and made a new master bath in one portion of it. Otherwise, it only had one bathroom.When we entered the house and I turned on the lights, Carrie sort of gasped. I asked what was wrong, but she just smiled and said, “I'm waiting for June Cleaver to come out of the kitchen with her pearls and high heels on. God Mark, this is so 60's looking.”“I know, but it serves it purpose for me, at this time. I do plan on buying furniture, just never got around to doing it. Ann bitches at me all the time. Come on with me, while I gather some clothes for the morning.”We went upstairs to the master bedroom. When she saw the furniture up there, she really gasped. “Oh My Mark. This stuff is gorgeous. Please don't replace this. This stuff has to be from the 20's. I just love the bed.”“Yeah. Gramps said his father built it.” The bed was a big four poster and had matching dressers and nightstands. It was old, but finely built and well maintained.As I was gathering things, she laid out on the bed. “You know, maybe this weekend, we stay here and let the kids have the condo. I'd love to make love to you right here. Also, pack up some underwear and some shirts and pants, so you can leave them at my place.”“Sounds like a plan to me. Where does Alan live anyways?” I asked“He actually lives with his mom. Close by campus. She is divorced for years now. I am actually pretty friends with her. We have gone out for drinks a few times and have had dinners at each other's places. She just adores Jenny, which makes it a whole lot nicer.”After a few more minutes, we left and went back to Carrie's. Of course we made love again that night, and early the next morning, before she had to leave for work. This arrangement worked out quite well for us.Chapter 22.By Thanksgiving time, we were comfortably into our relationship. Most nights were spent at her place, and most weekends were spent at mine. There wasn't a night we did not spend together. I was hooked on her. I never, in a million years, could believe I could wake up every morning with someone. This felt awesome to me and so special. I loved looking at her while she slept. I also enjoyed just sitting with her at night reading, or just watching TV, then retire to bed. The best part is when she folds herself into me and falls asleep. I love that most.Thanksgiving is time for family. This year though, I was spending dinner with Carrie, Jenny and Alan, and Alan's mom, Brenda. I usually would be at Ann's, but she understood. I did tell Ann we would be over after dinner to visit.Carrie and Brenda did all the cooking. Alan and I set the table, but then retired to the couch to watch some football. Jenny was out with the ladies, so this left only Alan and I alone. As we watched, Alan and I would talk some. He was a nice young man and had his head together. He told he would be graduating in the spring and already had a job lined up. He wanted to work a while before he went for his Masters.Then he looked around to see where the ladies were, and saw they were still very busy in the kitchen. “Mr. Roberts, Mark. I… I want to ask Jenny to marry me this Christmas. Do I ask her mom beforehand?”“Well Alan. To be honest, I think that would be a great idea. Are you absolutely sure of this? This is a huge step in your life?” He smiled and said, “Oh yeah. I have never been sure of anything like this. I love her so much and can't wait to start our lives together.”“Tell you what. You get Carrie alone one day soon and ask her. I'm sure she will give her blessing. But, she's not the one you need the blessing from. You know who that belongs to.” I told him.He chuckled, then said, “Yeah. I kind of had a feeling you would say that. But I don't know when I will ever see them before Christmas. That's not something you ask over the phone.”I laughed, then said back to him. “Oh you are so right there. That old bastard would kill you if you did it like that. When can you get a Friday off in the next couple of weeks?”He shrugged his shoulders, “I guess any Friday. I usually have labs on those days, so no biggie, why?”I shook my head. “Between you and I, and I mean this, you don't say a word to Jenny. I too, plan on asking Carrie to marry me. So pick a Friday. We'll tell our fine ladies we are doing a guy thing that day, which we are. But we'll fly down to Florida, and ask the Chief and Connie in person.”“Oh wow Mark. But I can't afford that. Heck, the ring I want to get is a bit over my budget.”“Don't worry about the flight, I'll handle that. Where did you get the ring, or see it?He smiled and said, “Over at the mall, at Kay Jewelers. It's only a half carat, but one day, I'll get her a bigger one.”“Look, tomorrow, the girls are going shopping with my sister, god help me. So why don't you come with me. A friend of mine is a jeweler and has a lot of nice rings. We'll figure it out from there.” He just nodded, and as he was about to speak Jenny popped in.“What are you two talking about. It looks like a very deep conversation.” We both laughed and said football.Dinner was excellent, but the people really made it nice. By the end of the meal, we were all tired. I helped, as did Alan, wish dishes. We figured the girls spent all morning in there fixing it, it's the least we could do. Thank God for dishwashers.That night and Ann's, Carrie and Ann talked nonstop. Jenny and Alan had also come along, but weren't staying long. I was very happy that Carrie and her family were so accepted by my family. Ann and Brad made them feel right at home. I announced that Christmas Eve dinner was at my house this year. Ann, of course, had to bust my balls and ask what take out I was using.“I'll have you know, I am a pretty damn good cook, huh Honey?” Carrie smiled, “Oh Yeah. He actually is. I was very surprised. Jarheads usually know only a couple of things. Walk, March, shoot guns and eat.” then laughed. “Nice Squid. Real Nice”Katie then asked, “Mom? What's a Jarhead?” which made us all start busting out in laughter.“Well Pumpkin, it's like this. See a Marine is a very special person. He, or she, is the very best and people in the other services are very jealous of us. So they call us very derogatory names, to make them feel better about the lowly service they belong too, like the Navy. Squids are so jealous.” then laughed.Carrie was rolling her eyes, then said “Dream on Jarhead. We are just smart enough to stay on a boat, while you get all the crap jobs on land. But, I still love ya.”Once home and lying in bed, Carrie told what a great day she had. She just loves my sister and feels rather close to her. She also said she was so glad that they even accepted Jenny and Alan. I told her that I was glad that they have accepted her as well, and that spending the day with her and Jenny, and Alan's family made this pretty special to me.“Carrie. I don't want any secrets between us, so I need to tell you this.” “Uh Oh” was her response. “It's not bad, not bad at all. Alan is going to come ask you for permission to marry Jenny”Carrie got to her knees, “Really? When? Oh my God. I knew that they would do this.”“Not sure when he is going to ask you, but I do know it is Christmas time he asking her. He's pretty much laid out his life and how he sees it, and he does have a good head on his shoulders. He said they would wait until Jenny graduates in a year and a half.”Carrie was still on her knees, but crying now. “I am so happy for them. Jenny wants to marry him, that I am sure of. She loves him as much as I love you. I just told her when the time comes, be smart, and wait on having kids. Enjoy being a couple, because once kids come, it's whole new ballgame.”“Now you better act surprised about this. He is so scared of what you may say.”“I will. I promise. He has nothing to fear from me, it's gonna be a YES”, then leaned down and kissed me. That kiss turn into a hot, passionate kiss, which led to a love making session. Can't wait to see what she is like when I ask her the same thing.Chapter 23.The next morning Carrie was up and out the door by 7am. I knew I had most of the day to myself, so I got dressed and headed over to my place. Alan and I were to meet at the jewelers around noon.Alan was right on time as we entered the building, which was in one of those strip style shopping centers. My friend, John, was behind the counter when he saw me walk in. After a few good minutes of catching up he directed us to the engagement ring area . Alan stated he had $1200 to spend. John showed him quite a few rings in that price range. He was looking for a pear shaped style. I saw one that was one carat and asked the price. John said he could let that one go for $1800. Alan said it looked great, but he couldn't afford it.“Do you think Jenny would like it?” “Yeah. She's love that.” he said. “Well then, get it. I'll make up the difference. My future stepdaughter should have the best.” “Mark. I promise to repay you as quick as I can.” “You pay me when you can afford too, and nothing sooner. We'll be family for many years to come.”Then John directed me to this one ring. It was marquis shaped with 6 small diamonds around it. It just screamed Carrie to me. It was set in a platinum band, which I already knew she liked. It wasn't to pretentious, or gaudy. John said I could have that one for five grand , normally $6500 for it. He said it was a size 8, but I am not sure of her size. He said, no matter, just bring it in after I give it to her and he would resize it, unless I could find out her size. I chuckled to myself, and thought, I should call her ex and ask.After leaving there, we grabbed a sandwich and beer at this one bar and grill I knew. Then headed over to my house to see about flights to Florida. Alan was so excited, and kept thanking me over and over. I knew now the kid's father had very little to do with him, since the divorce. He's been gone from their lives for almost 12 years now. So this felt pretty good, acting like a father figure to him. Kids coming out of boot camp are kind of like this. They look up to the sergeants when you get them in your platoon. So I know the look all too well, except I'm not going to yell at this one.Once at my house, we went online and found a flight, non-stop to Pensacola, that got us there by 10am, and then one returning at 2:30, arriving back here at 5pm. Before I made the purchase, I called Connie. She had given me her cell number before they left back in October.After the obligatory how are you's and how's Carrie. I told her my plan. I really wanted to surprise them both, but had to make sure they would be home that day. It would have sucked to fly down and find they were gone.“Oh Mark. You are such a good man. John will be so happy you did this. I know he likes and respects you. He has been hoping you would do something like this, marrying his little girl. But to fly all the way down here to ask his permission, well, you'll be at the top of his list. You already are on mine. I promise I won't say a word either.”We hung up after that, and I hit the button to buy the tickets. I didn't tell Connie about Alan coming or his question too. That should make the old man really feel good. Tickets for both of us, just set me back a grand, but it was worth it. I told Alan this one is on me, which he protested too, but I told him tough, get over it.Later that night, while in my bed, Carrie told me about her day with Ann, and shopping. She said she thinks this will be the best Christmas ever for her. Ann told her what she thought I needed and clothes sizes and such. I can just imagine what Ann helped her pick out. I got to admit, when it comes to clothes for me, Ann knew what I liked.Since that few days back in October, when I thought she wanted to call this whole thing off, we have grown closer. Although we are not in our early twenties, we still made love quite a bit. Four or five times a week. But just going to bed with her and waking in the morning and see her next to me, was like heaven. I could care less about the sex actually. That was the bonus. Great thing too, is that she loves sex and on the weekends, it was two or three times a day, unless her monthly friend showed up, but even then, when it first starts, she isn't opposed to doing it in the shower. That has happened twice since we started.Weekends too, was when naughty Carrie comes to play. She is very boisterous, and loves talking dirty. She is always a lady outside of the home, but inside, she gets down right slutty. One evening I let her tie me up to the post of my bed. She teased quite a bit that night. 69ing with me, but having her sex hover above my face, where I couldn't reach it. While she played with my cock. Then she'd lower herself down to let me lick her for about thirty seconds, then pull away again. It drove me insane with lust. When she finally turned around and lowered herself onto me, she rode me like a bull. The whole time asking me how her cunt felt and did I want to cum, and things like that. It was fun and adventurous for us, and we both love it. I really think she has a Domme side to her, deep down.Chapter 24.A few nights before Alan and I took off to Florida, I fibbed a bit and told Carrie that on Friday I was going to help Brad close up their cabin, that he and Ann have by a lake near us. Ann knew of my plans and was willing to go along with it. I told her that Alan was going to help too and that we should be back by 6 that evening. Since the cabin is only 20 minutes from the airport, I was going to swing by before our flight, and move a few chairs on the porch, to a shed he had. That way, I really didn't lie. I hate lying to her.We arrived in Florida about ten minutes early, which was good. I rented a car and was at John and Connie's in no time, thanks to GPS. The look on John's face was priceless when he opened the door and saw both of us standing there. Of course, he thought something was wrong.“What in the world are you two doing down here? Are the girls  okay?”I laughed and said all is fine with them. He let us in and we took a seat on the couch. “Well? What's up. You didn't fly down here for your health.”“John. Connie. I came down here to ask permission to marry your daughter.”“You flew down here just to ask that? What the hell, you could have called on the phone and saved time and money Shitbird.”“No John. You deserve more respect than that. If I am doing this, I want to do it right. So, do I have your permission?”He looked at Connie, who shook her head yes, then said, “Mark. I would be proud to call you my son in law. I may seem gruff at times, but I do like you and respect you, and I know you will treat my daughter good, which is all I can ask for. Connie and I want only the best for her, and Jenny too. So yes, you have our permission.”We shook hands and he actually gave me a hug, and of course Connie did too. Then John asked,“Did you need a wingman, bringing Alan down with you?”“No sir”, Alan said. “I would like permission too, to ask your granddaughter to be my wife.”“Jesus H. Christ. Both of you? Well son, are you sure you are ready for a step like this. That is one person I never want to see hurt, besides my wife and daughter.”“Sir. I have never been so sure of anything in my life. I graduate in May and have a job already lined up and Jenny graduates the following year, and then we would marry.”After looking at his wife again, who stood there smiling, he spoke, “Then I guess I see no point in denying you her hand. Promise me you will always take care of her and love her with all your heart, like we do.”“I promise Mr. Reynolds, I swear.” He chuckled, “I bet you were as nervous as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs to ask me this. Both of you clowns, so help me God, if you ever hurt those girls, I will hunt you down and hurt you real bad, and if I am too old, I still know people who can do it. You know the last one Carrie was with, the asshole, the best I could do is have him shipped to San Diego. I wanted to have him put on that team in the Aleutians (Alaska), but the CO thought that would not be a good fit for that team.”We stayed and had lunch with them, then got back to the airport with plenty of time. We did ask if they could come up for Christmas. They had plans for a few days later that week, but said they would be up on Christmas Eve, which I thought was perfect. We also planned on surprising the girls with their presence , that evening at my house since I was cooking dinner that night. John did make a crack about eating before he got there, in case my meal sucked.I got to Carrie's around 6:30, and we went to eat, then to my place. We just cuddled on the couch that night, then went to bed. I was pretty tired, and she completely understood, so we just fell asleep in each other's arms.The next day, we met Jenny and Alan back at Carrie's and headed over to this tree farm to cut down two Christmas tree's They take you out on a wagon, then when you find and cut it down, pick you up and bring you back to the Chalet, where you pay. The four of us had a great time and Carrie, and Jenny were giddy most of the day. I dropped the kids off at Carrie's and helped put the tree in its stand. Jenny was going to start decorating it, while Carrie and I did the same at my place. This is the first tree I have decorated in over twenty years. I was usually never home for the holidays, or if I was, it was for a few days and it was spent with mom and Ann.It took most of the afternoon and part of the evening to string lights and attach the antique ornaments my grandmother had at the house. Carrie did run out to the store and bought ribbon and bows, and some garland too. While we did this, she had Christmas music playing in the background and I had a fire lit in the fireplace. What was real nice, was that it was now snowing some. Not heavy, but a nice downfall, just like you would see in any Christmas movie.We were both dressed in jeans and sweaters, but she looks a lot cuter than I do, in hers. After we finished and ate delivered pizza, we retired to the couch, which faces the fireplace, and the tree, all lit up, standing in the corner by it. Carrie sat next to me, sipping wine, with her legs curled under her. We talked about what we needed to get for people. I had told her I wasn't sure what to get Ann and Brad, or even Jenny and Alan. I did buy the kids laptops for each of them. Ann had only one computer, which they all shared, so this would help out in that department. I know Ann and Brad were going to buy Kyle a used truck, for when he passed his driver's license test. He was taking the driver's ed course now.Carrie said she would help with Ann and Brad, but I didn't need to get Jenny anything. I told her to stop there. She is part of you and she deserves presents as well. Carrie did tell me she is going to get Jenny a car, after the first of the year. Right now, she didn't have one, but she was taking an internship at this one accounting agency, and needed one for that. Then we started kissing, which led to more kissing. I stopped, and got up.“Hold that thought”, I said. Then went to the back closet and pulled out my sleeping bag. I came back in and unrolled it, and unzipped it. I laid it out over the oval rug in front of the fireplace and went and took her by the hand and had her stand up.“Umm, I like how you think Mr. Roberts.” I slowly removed her sweater, then her bra. Of course I had to suck her tits a few times, before unbuttoning her jeans and slowly peeled them down, exposing her black thong. With me now on my knees, I used my teeth to pull her thongs down, and when they hit the floor, she stepped out of them. I didn't even bother with her socks. Now naked, I leaned in and lightly licked her sex, tasting her juices that she was already emitting. God, I love how she taste.She pulled me up then and pulled my sweater over my head and then my t-shirt. She now got on her knees and removed my jeans and then my boxers. When my engorged member sprung free, she licked it a few times, especially on the tip. “Yummy” she said.I had her lay on the sleeping bag, and she readily spread her legs for me, letting me gaze at her beauty. The Christmas lights, and the glow of the fire made her especially beautiful. I wasted little time in going down on her. I wanted her to orgasm in my mouth. I needed to taste her. I stayed down there for a long while. Bringing her off two times, before I kissed my way back up to her mouth, stopping along the way to such each tit into my mouth, which I knew she loved having done.As I kissed her passionately, I made sure my weight was not fully on her, and my hardened member lay at her opening, ready to enter paradise. Her hips gyrated below me, trying hard to have me enter her.“Baby. Please put it in. I need you so bad. I love you”I too, couldn't wait any longer and slid in. Once I was fully in, we both moaned out. We then proceeded to make slow love to one another. We had no rush to this, just two people, deeply in love, joined together, making us one. I have no idea how long we made love for, but it had to have lasted at least a good fifteen minutes. We were lost in each other, until Carrie finally moaned out “Oh God, I'm cumming Baby.” I didn't last too much longer and started shooting my seed deep within her. “I love you baby.” I said as I was cumming.After we calmed a bit, I noticed I was still hard and rolled us over so she was on top. I looked at her, as she sat up. The firelight danced over her skin. She looked incredible to me. “My God Baby, you look so beautiful” I said. “You are beautiful Mark. I love you so much. This is going to be the best holiday ever.” I smiled, and thought, “If you only knew my Love”Chapter 25.The next two weeks flew by. I had talked with Connie a couple of times. She said she told Carrie that they were going to New Orleans to visit with friends down there, from their Navy days. Carrie was a little bummed, but understood. Connie said their flight got in at 4pm that day. Jenny was going to pick them up and bring them over a little past 7, on that evening, along with Alan's mom. Ann was going to meet them out front, so they could follow her up the drive, without lights on. Very clandestine like. I had told Ann to wait until I turned the kitchen and dining room lights out, before sneaking in the back door, and to stay in the dining room until I actually proposed to Carrie. God I was nervous now. This to me, was the biggest leap of faith I would ever take in my life.Carrie came over around 5, on Christmas Eve. She was wearing this beautiful red dress that made her look like a Goddess. Had no one been coming over, I would have taken her then and there.“My God. You are more beautiful than I have ever seen you Ms. Reynolds.” I told her. She smiled and said, “You are just biased, and you want to get into my panties JH. Thank You though. Compliments are always welcome. I love you.”She helped me prepare the rest of dinner. We were having Standing Prime Rib, mashed potatoes, rolls, gravy, and a bean casserole that Carrie prepared. We then set the table for 8, on the dining room table. This table was big enough to feed a platoon on. Everything was almost ready.It was now just coming on 7pm. The roast was done and I removed it from the oven, to let it sit a while before carving. Carrie was standing near me, sipping a glass of wine. I reached the light switch and turned it off, and then walked into the dining room and did the same there. The only light was from the tree and fireplace.I went to the stereo and put on Carrie's favorite artist, Shania Twain. I took Carrie's hand and led her to the middle of the living room, as the music started. I took her glass and set it down, then pulled her into my arms and started to dance to “From This Moment On”As we danced, I made sure her head was not turned so she could see into the dining room. Towards the end of the dance I softly sang the lyrics to her.You're the reason I believe in loveAnd you're the answer to my prayers from up aboveAll we need is just the two of usMy dreams came true because of youFrom this moment as long as I liveI will love you, I promise you thisThere is nothing I wouldn't giveFrom this momentI will love you as long as I liveFrom this moment on.As the music started to end, I looked into her eyes, which were now glazed over with tears, and got to my knee. With her one hand in my, I looked up at her, then reached into my sport coat, and pulled out the ring.“Carolyn Ann. I love you more than life itself, and like the lyrics said, I can't wait to start living my life with you. Would you do me the honor and be my wife, and I your husband?”Her whole body tremble as I awaited her answer. “Oh My God Sweetheart, Yes”I stood and pulled her into me and we kissed a long and very passionate kiss. Just then, our combined family's started clapping and cheering. Carrie broke the kiss and saw her mom and dad coming towards us, with Jenny and Alan, then Ann and her family.Carrie broke from me and ran to her mom and hugged her tight, then her dad. She was now full out crying, and since she yes, it must be from joy. Connie then hugged me and told me how beautiful that scene just was. Jenny and Carrie were hugging and crying together now. Brad and Alan both shook my hand. Ann went up and hugged Carrie and welcomed her to the family, then she came to me.“Brother. You sometimes shock the hell out of me. I never knew you could be this romantic” Then kissed me and told me she loves me and I better take care of that woman, always.John finally came over to me, “Mark. Never in a million years would I have thought I'd be calling you son. But you know what, I am glad I am. You are the type of man I would want for a son. Welcome aboard to our family Son.” then hugged me. I could have sworn I saw a tear in his eye.Dinner was excellent and everyone was in a very festive mood. Carrie made a toast, after saying grace before dinner. “To the best Christmas ever. To Ann and Brad, and the kids, I am so grateful to be part of your lives now. You have made me feel part of your family since the day I met you. To you, mom and dad, and you Jenny, for always being there for me and teaching what love really is, so I can now share that with my future husband Mark, who I plan on growing very old with. I love you all”After dinner, the girls shooed us away and told us to relax while they did the dishes. Connie said it was only fair, since I did the cooking. It was well past 9pm when we were all together in the living room. Carrie and I already decided we would open our gifts the next morning, at her place with Jenny and Alan, and now her dad and mom. But we still had to exchange gifts with Ann and the family.Carrie handed out our gifts to them. To Ann, Carrie picked out a couple of sweaters and we got her a $200 visa gift card, so she could buy what she wanted for herself. We got Brad a new fishing reel and a $200 visa gift card. The gift cards were in a Christmas card signed Mark and Carrie. The kids each got a laptop and $100 gift cards. When they opened the cards, their mom asked what was written. Of course they could care less about what was written but said it was from “Uncle Mark and Aunt Carrie” I had signed all of the cards, but Carrie had no idea I wrote that. She squeezed my hand tightly then.Alan and Jenny were sitting by the tree and had opened their presents from my sister. Then Alan reached around the tree and produced a box, and handed it to Jenny. “Please open this Honey.”Jenny was now sort of kneeling and slowly opened the box. Inside was a figurine of a bride. Around the head and neck, was the ring he bought a few weeks back. Jenny just Gasped. Alan was kneeling now too and took her hand.“I was going to wait until the morning, but I just can't. I want everyone to see and hear this. Jennifer Lynn, would you marry me and become my wife and the mother, someday, to our children”Jenny broke down and started crying, but finally said “Yes”, then actually tackled him and started kissing him. Jenny was over the moon now, as was Carrie and Connie, and Alan's mom. Lots of excitement this night, that's for sure. I went out to the fridge and took out 2 bottles of champagne that I had snuck in the back and opened them. With John's help, we gave everyone a glass, including the kids and toasted to a merry Christmas.Katie made me chuckle when she asked if Jenny was now their cousin. I said officially, no, not until Carrie and I marry, but yeah, she is. “Oh Cool. I don't have any girl cousins”, which made us all laugh.I was sitting in the one arm chair, and Carrie in my lap. Of course she had to wiggle her ass a few times, which wasn't the best thing to do, because Mr. happy liked the attention and started to rise. I whispered in her ear, “Keep it up and I'll take you upstairs and take care of this problem I am having.” She giggled and said, “Promises. Promises”Then Carrie asked, “Mark. Did you ask my dad for permission?” I just smiled and said, “Oh Yeah. I'm not that dumb. Actually. Remember two weeks ago when I was helping Brad at the cabin?” she nodded, “Well, Alan and I did go there at 5:30am. I can see Alan is not the type that likes getting up at Oh Dark Thirty either, but, we did go over there. Moved three things to the shed, then left for the airport. We flew down to Florida, got to your parents by 11, had lunch, asked Chief and your mom for their blessings, then back up here by 5 that evening, and you two fine ladies weren't the wiser. So before you say anything, we did not lie, but did not disclose our whole agenda. No way could I lie to you Babe.”John was laughing as I was recounting that day. “Oh yeah, I open the door to find these two Shitbirds. My first thought was something happened to one of you, but then Mark sorted it out for me. Connie already knew he was coming. But I'll tell you. I couldn't ask for two finer men to take care of my girls, than these two.After that, everyone started to leave. We told them we'd be over in the morning, and to not open stuff without us there. As soon as we saw the lights of their cars fade away, Carrie turned off the lights and pulled me upstairs.Carrie turned on the lamp, next to the bed, then turned off the overhead lights. She seductively stripped down for me, and I just stood there in amazement. Once naked, she stood there. So I stripped as well. Not as seductive as she had done, but still slow. I stood a foot away from here and she took both of my hands in hers.She smiled at me, “Baby, you have no idea how lucky I feel and so loved right now. What you see in front of you, is yours, until the day we die. I am all yours.”I smiled at her then, and said, “Babe. For the life of me, I don't know how I ever got as lucky to be with a beautiful person, as you are. I don't mean just in looks, but the whole essence of you. You are my life, and no one will ever come between us. I Love you Carrie”She led me to the bed and we lay beside each other. Her newly ringed hand reached around the shaft of my member and held it gently. “I love this ring Baby. And, quite frankly, it looks really good right now. When did you know you wanted to marry me?”My eyes looked into hers, “Honestly, I wish I could say that first kiss on Whiteface Mountain. But it wasn't then. I knew at that point I had a shot with you though. But, it was the night I made you dinner and drew your bath. I knew then, when you said I love you back to me, that this was it. And, it's gotten better every day since.”She crawled up on top of me, and without any help from our hands, slipped my hard member into her waiting sex. Looking up at her, after we both moaned, “When did you know this was real for us?”“When we kissed on that rock. There was just something about it. But when we made love that Saturday night in the cabin and professed our love to each other. I knew in my heart then. But finally, when you stuck by me, with that stupid ordeal back in October, I knew this man was it.”“Baby, there was no way I was walking away from you. Not then , not ever. Were you surprised this happened tonight?” I asked.She grinned, “Yes and no. I thought maybe tomorrow, and if not then, then Valentine's Day. But tonight threw me. But picking one of my favorite songs to dance too, then asking me then, well it made me speechless. Then to have our whole family here too. You made this the best Christmas I have ever had.”Carrie started pumping up and down on me now. She didn't want to talk anymore. She wanted to complete our love making. It really did not take us long either. Throughout the whole time, our lips were locked together, until we were both ready to cum.“Oh God Baby. I have to cum” I spoke out loudly. “Cum Baby. Give me it all. I Love You Mark”I started cumming deep inside her, and about half way through, she started cumming. My hands were holding her ass as she did. I could feel goosebumps on her cheeks, as she let loose with her orgasm. It was very powerful too. Her whole body was wiggling around as our orgasms continued.We kissed one last time, then both told each other I love you. I wouldn't let her leave me though and she settled in on top of me and we both fell asleep.Chapter 26.Christmas Day saw us going all over the place. First, I took Carrie out to the barn out back. Inside was my old 93 Ford Mustang Boss. I bought this right after boot camp. It was rarity that I got to drive it much. Sometimes, six months would elapse before it got driven. The most use I got out of it was when I was stationed at Quantico. When I moved back here, after getting out, I bought my truck. So this car just sits, except for an occasional spin. It's silver with black interior, and has the 5 liter engine, which is a small V8. The only enhancement it has, is a new radio that has Bluetooth for the phone. It is in mint condition and only has 22,000 miles on it.Carrie asked where did I get this. So I told her about its history. Then I told her I was going to give this to Jenny. “Oh My God Mark. You can't do that. This is an antique, isn't it?”“No. Not yet. Couple of more years. But she needs a car and I never use it. So why not let someone, who I happen to like and is going to be my daughter one day, have it.”“You amaze me JH. You don't have a selfish bone in your body. And you are right, she is going to have you for a father one day. I know she likes that idea too. The ex was never really close with her in the first place, and when I kicked him out, he has never even tried to contact her. Just be patient with her and love her Mark. That's all I ask.”I knew I was going to do this too, after Carrie said she had to buy a car for her. So I had it checked out at the garage I go too, and had new tires put on it. So it was good to go. She'll just have to watch driving in snow. Rear wheel drive and snow don't always mix well.When we arrived that morning, everyone was up. Connie had made cinnamon buns and coffee, which we all enjoyed, while opening presents. After all the presents were opened, I handed Jenny a small gift bag. “From us” I said. Her eyes got real big when she saw they keys. Then ran to the front door and opened it. When she saw the car, she squealed with excitement. This girl was in a fuzzy robe and put on sneakers and ran out to it. Then came back inside and ran up to me and hugged me.“Thank You so much Mark” then planted kisses all over my cheeks. Then she thanked her mom. I told her it was hers to use and to be careful with it. I then told her we would help with insurance and stuff like that. But it is her responsibility to maintain it. “You guys are the best. Come Papa. let me show you my new car.” she said. Jenny, Alan, and John trudged out into the cold. I told Connie that the car is old, but nowhere near the mileage that the old Seadog has on him. Connie winked at me and said, “You know Mark. I think you are going to make one great father.”That New Year's Eve, we were invited to a couple of parties, but we begged off and stayed home. We made dinner together. Watched some movies, then made love at midnight. We did talk about Carrie moving in here, with me. She readily agreed, and two weeks later, she moved in. Jenny and Alan moved into her condo. All Carrie asked of them was to make sure no babies were produced yet. At some point, once the kids were established, and found their own place after they were married, she would sell the condo. Luckily for us, this was not a drain on finances. She made almost $100 grand a year at her job and mine was bringing in almost double that, and this house was paid for.We did settle down and bought new furniture for all over. I let that up to her, and Ann helped out. Those two become thick as thieves. If I was to ever argue with Carrie, I'd never win, but we never argue. We do discuss stuff and come to common ground. One thing was constant though, and that was our love making. I made sure we had at least one date night a week, and I always try to be romantic.The first weekend in October, Carrie and I married. When Carrie got married the first time, it was in front of a judge. So she never had a real wedding, and, her parents weren't there for it, depriving her dad the chance to give her away.The one thing she did ask me to wear was my dress blues. I had to check to make sure that I was still allowed, and found out that it was  okay for that. I had to bring that out of mothballs. I even had the sword. MY uni had 5 gold service stripes indicating 20 years, plus a lot of ribbons and medals on the pocket area.John too, wore his dress blues, or winter uniform. Now he had 9 gold sleeve stripes, since he was just shy of 40 years in. His front pocket area had to weigh a ton with all the service ribbons and medals. He wore blue, so he wouldn't upstage his daughter, in her white dress.Seeing her come down the aisle, with her father, was one of the best days of my life. She was radiant and so beautiful. She picked From This Moment On as her entrance song, instead of the traditional wedding march. Jenny served as her maid of honor, and Brad served as my best man. Alan and Ann were in it as well, as was Kyle and Katie. We both have a small circle of friends, and limited family, so the reception wasn't really big, maybe 50 people in all, but we all had a great time. We spent our first night of the honeymoon, in my uncle's cabin, after climbing up Whiteface Mountain and kissed on that very same rock, where we did the first time.I do remember, as I stood there, at the altar, holding Carrie's hands and was reciting her vows to me, all I thought was,“All this, because I bumped into a this beautiful woman at the ranger's station, who just happened to be a bit clumsy and sprain her ankle later, on a path near the cabin I was staying at. Life is good.”by T. Foxal.

Blending Our Lives.by T. Foxal. Listen to the ► Podcast at Connected.Chapter 20.The next morning I was awakened by a beautiful sensation on my hardened shaft. Carrie was licking and sucking me. When my hand caressed her face, she popped off of it and looked at me. “I couldn't help it Babe. It was so hard and wanting attention. Lay back and enjoy.”I smiled at her and said, “You know, if you are quiet, I too, could be licking and sucking something as you do that.” She smiled and moved so we could 69. As her damp panty clad cunt came down to me, my fingers moved the fabric to the side and I began enjoying her sexy slit.It wasn't long before Carrie's body stiffened and she began to cum. I have no idea how she kept from yelling out, like she usually does, but she managed. I was already close when she started cumming, and that just helped me along, because about a minute later I was ejaculating into her mouth, which she somehow kept in and swallowed. After taking one last lick, she came off of me and moved so we could kiss. It was a very passionate kiss, that we both could taste our handy work. After kissing, she looked at me and said, “Good Morning Honey. I like this new mouthwash we use.”, then giggled softly.After resting a bit, I had to get up and pee. Carrie just snuggled back under the covers and smiled at me. It was only 6:30 in the morning, but I was up now. I told her I needed some coffee. She said that I should make two cups and bring one back for her. I looked down at her and said, “You getting used to this morning service young lady?” “You betcha Baby.” then directed me to where the coffee pods were for her Keurig.As I entered the kitchen, lo and behold, Chief was sitting at the table, drinking coffee and reading the newspaper. I didn't even think that the paper was even delivered anymore. I red the news online. “Morning Chief” He looked up and said, “Morning Mark.” Good sign I thought. At least he didn't call me Shitbird, or any other name.I got my coffee and started to get Carrie her's. John cleared his throat and told me to take a seat. “So Mark. Tell me what's up with my little girl. I know they found some spot on one of her ovaries.”“Trust me John. That's about all I know. It took some prying to get that out of her. Hell, she was going to send me packing because of this. No way would I walk away from her, especially with something like that. But, I think it is just a cyst, that time and some meds will take care of.”He just stared then said, “Mark. Honestly, I am an overprotective father, and grandfather. I just want only the best for my two girls. I know you and I like you. You have always been a man about things and someone I can trust, unlike that fuck knuckle she was married too. I never trusted that guy from the first day I met him. I know from just looking at Carrie, she is in love with you, and judging how you look at her, the same is true for you. All I ask, is don't play games with her. Either be all in, or all out. I don't want her hurt again. As for her cyst, or whatever it is, I'm sure it is nothing. Connie has had those in the past.”“Sir. And I mean sir as respect as her father. We both know that we had to call officers sir, but we both know they couldn't fight their way out of a paper bag, with a knife and directions on where to cut. But John, truthfully, this is the real deal for us and me. I have never let a woman into my life before. I saw too much when I was in. How they were in love but deployment after deployment, took a toll on those marriages and most ended in divorce, so I never got into that situation. But your daughter has my heart and soul now and I will do anything for her.”He chuckled then said, “Well, I am not complaining. I've seen the same as you. I got real lucky with Connie. We have been together almost 43 years now, married 42 of them. She is the love of my life. Best thing that ever happened to me. How she endured all of my deployments, I'll never know. But I never took her for granted. Every time I was gone, I hurt inside, but I'd never show you assholes that side of me. I made sure when I was home, that she, and Carrie were the only things important to me. And I always acted like we were dating. We had date night a couple times a week. I don't mean sex either. Taking her to dinner, or a movie, or anything that she had an interest in. You do that, and you'll have a very happy home life. And, the sex is great too, even to this day.”“Yeah Chief, Really? Last night?” I said and laughed. He just chuckled and told me “Hey. When she wants it, who am I to deny her”, then laughed again.“Deny Who?” we both heard, and there, standing near us was Carrie. She walked over and behind her dad. Put her arms around him and kissed his head. “Morning Daddy. So who weren't you denying.”“Nothing Princess. Some things you don't need to know.” then laughed. She looked at me and said, “Glad I wasn't dying of thirst Honey” then shot me a glare. “Sorry Babe. But your dad wanted to speak with me. Here, let me get yours now.”, then laughed. Her dad then chimed in, “Christ Carrie, you broke him already. 20 years in the Marines and never broke the man, and you do it in two weeks.”“Mwah? Not me. But you know those Gyrene's, they sometimes need direction. They're not as cool as us Navy people.” then laughed, which made us all laugh. I was glad to see her sense of humor back, and the twinkle in her eye.We were gone most of the day. There was a huge craft show at this one park they we stayed at for most of the afternoon. I did learn that John got into woodworking as a hobby now. He said he always wanted to do that, but being away so long, he never found the time. At one point, I found myself with Connie, while Carrie was with her dad, looking at something a few booths down from us.“Mark. I am so happy you came into Carrie's life. I have never seen her this alive before, except when she took in Jenny. I know that you are worried about her, with whatever this growth is. As I told her last night, it is probably nothing, but a simple cyst. I have had 4 in my lifetime, and they always go away. The specialist will know better on Tuesday. I bet they don't even do an exploratory on her. Her lab results will tell the tale. Her doctor should have eased her mind some, but some reason didn't. Just be there for her, no matter what. That's all I ask.”I told her I would. After a bit we headed to this little Italian place her parents knew of, for dinner. John picked up this tab, although I was willing too, but he told me my money was no good tonight. I did invite them to join us the next day at my sister's, but Connie said they already had made plans to spend the day with Jenny and Alan.After dinner we headed back to Carrie's. I stated I needed to go home and get some clothes. Carrie offered to go with me. But I told her stay and enjoy her time with her parents. I wouldn't be long. Just needed to shave and shower and get some more clothes. I was back within an hour. We stayed up some and chatted more, then we all retired to bed. After the I love you's, Carrie said she wished we were alone right now, and that she needed me inside her. I just held her close and told her soon Baby, soon.Chapter 21.We left for my sister's around noon. The get together was to start at 1pm, but I wanted to see Ann before any others arrived. I knew she would just love Carrie, there was no question in my mind. She'd probably love any woman who could tie me down. Ann and my brother in law have been married 18 years. They have two kids, Kyle, who will turn 16 in November, and Katie, who turned 14 yesterday. They have a very nice and modern house, which they moved into a few years back.Ann met us at the door, when we pulled into the drive. She is 41, same as Carrie, and stands 5'6, 130 pounds. She has dirty blond hair, and blue eyes. She is a spit fire too. Never afraid to speak her mind and tell you like it is. She has tried, unsuccessfully, to fix me up with a multitude of her friends or single neighbors. Nothing ever came to pass with them. A few became sex buddy's, but that was it. None ever made my heart beat fast, or my stomach tighten up in a knot, like Carrie does.After the introductions were made, and a few cracks about how Carrie somehow managed to corral me in, the girls went off to the kitchen, while Brad, Kyle and I went to the family room to watch some football. Eventually, my uncle and aunt showed up, along with 2 of their kids and grandkids. Also was some of my sister's neighbors and friends too. Two of which I had dated, but nothing was ever said around Carrie. At one point, Ann got me alone and said, “I love that woman. She is so right for you. You better not fuck this up little brother.”We stayed until after eating and cake was served, and presents opened. I did not what to get a 14 year old, so I went the safe way and got her a card with $100 visa gift card. She loved that. I signed the card from Uncle Mark and Carrie. When she gave me a hug and a kiss, she whispered in my ear, “I like her Unc. I hope she will be my aunt one day.” I just smiled at her, knowing full well that was my plan too.Carrie's parents left Tuesday morning, to visit, and stay with Connie's sister Bev. Connie did tell me to call her if there was anything wrong, after the doctor visit. I did not stay Monday night at Carrie's. I figure they all needed a break from me. Of course Carrie really did not like that, but I thought it best. We've laid a lot on her parents by being together as a couple and actually sleeping together.I went with Carrie to the doctor's office and sat with her in the waiting room. The whole time, I held her hand and at times, felt as though she was crushing mine, because she was so nervous. Once she was called, I stayed in the waiting room. About forty minutes later, a nurse called for me to come with her. She led me to an office that had Carrie and the doctor.I looked at Carrie and she was smiling. The doctor introduced himself to me, and I did the same. He then looked over some papers, then looked at Carrie.“Ms. Reynolds, you can rest assured that you do not have any tumor, benign, or cancerous. It is what we call a functional cyst. It is a sack that usually contains an egg, then releases that egg during your monthly cycle. The sack normally then goes away. Well this one did not, as of yet. They sometimes don't, which is what has happened to you. It may take a few weeks, but it will go away, and when you come back in three weeks, if it hasn't, we'll give you some medication that will help with that process. Otherwise, you are very healthy. If you have stopped having intimate relations, like many women do at this time, you are very safe to resume, and did not need to stop in the first place. I only say this, because that is the first question I am usually asked.” he said with a slight chuckle.As we were driving home, Carrie was all smiles. This was a huge relief for her, and me too. Maybe our lives could get back on track, after this slight derailment. I asked her if she was hungry, but she said no. She just wanted to get home.After arriving, she excused herself and went upstairs. Lord knows what she was doing, but I finally heard heard coming down the stairs. When I looked up, there she stood, with this white lace Baby doll outfit on. You talk about sexy looking. “Oh My Sweetie. You look absolutely beautiful and very sexy”“Thank you Honey. I feel absolutely sexy right now and I need you to make love to me all afternoon.”She grabbed my hand and led me upstairs to her bed. I did not waste any time in disrobing. My cock was as hard as a rock, before my boxers hit the floor. As I stripped, Carrie got on the bed and lay there, with her legs spread wide, inviting me to take her. Her white thong barely covered her moist sex, and the top did not hide the excitement she felt , with her nipples already hard as pebbles on her beautiful tits.I kneeled between her legs and slipped my fingers under her thongs waistband and gently tugged them down and off of her body. Her labia was glistening in the afternoon sunlight, filtering through the window. I leaned in and blew on her sex, which elicited a moan from her. Then lightly licked her swollen lips. “Later Baby. I need you inside me now” she softly said.I rubbed my head all over her soaking wet slit and then slowly inserted the head. “Oh Gawd” she moaned out. I slowly inched my way into her inner being, which was so soft, and so hot. “God. You feel so good Carrie.”My mouth lowered to her chest, as I sucked in one fabric cover tit. She arched her back some, like she was giving me her tit. I then sucked the other one, which made her moan so loud. Then I moved up and started kissing her. Her legs wrapped around me and we made slow, and very passionate love to one another. Neither of could hold back though. We were like teenagers doing it for the first time, and erupted in orgasm. I shot first. As I was shooting my love juice deep inside her, Carrie crushed me with her legs as this set her off on her own orgasm. Her nails dug into my back, but neither of us cared. My grip around her neck was tight as well. I felt like I hadn't cum in ages. As we settled down, we lay in each other's arms, panting from our euphoric bliss.I was still inside her, and surprisingly, still hard as well. I gently rolled us over, so she was now on top. Our lips still together. Our tongues exploring every inch of tongue. I loved her kisses, but best of all, I loved her more than ever. She sat up on me and looked down at me, smiling. Then slowly removed her teddy from her body, exposing her beautiful tits to me.“My God. You are so beautiful Carrie. You can stay her all day like this.” I told her. She smiled then said, “I had all intentions of doing this all day.” then she started to giggle. I asked what was so funny.“Last night, after we went to bed, I was laying here missing the hell out of you by the way, but I had to endure another night of my parents going at it. You have no idea how horny that made me.” she exclaimed. I asked, “Did you take care of that?”She sort of blushed, then laughed and said, “Yeah. I did. All I could think of was you, making love to me. This sure beats my fingers, or any toy I have.”I chuckled and said, “Wish I could have watched that. That would be so sexy to see.”“Maybe one day I will let you watch. But right now, Fuck me Babe. Fuck me so good”Later that evening, after napping and then showering together, we headed out to dinner at a local bar and grill. Afterwards, I brought her over to my house for the first time.She was in awe of it, just coming down the driveway. The house is big. It is 4 bedroom, Victorian style farm house. It was, at one time, 5 bedrooms. But my grandfather combined two bedrooms into one and made a new master bath in one portion of it. Otherwise, it only had one bathroom.When we entered the house and I turned on the lights, Carrie sort of gasped. I asked what was wrong, but she just smiled and said, “I'm waiting for June Cleaver to come out of the kitchen with her pearls and high heels on. God Mark, this is so 60's looking.”“I know, but it serves it purpose for me, at this time. I do plan on buying furniture, just never got around to doing it. Ann bitches at me all the time. Come on with me, while I gather some clothes for the morning.”We went upstairs to the master bedroom. When she saw the furniture up there, she really gasped. “Oh My Mark. This stuff is gorgeous. Please don't replace this. This stuff has to be from the 20's. I just love the bed.”“Yeah. Gramps said his father built it.” The bed was a big four poster and had matching dressers and nightstands. It was old, but finely built and well maintained.As I was gathering things, she laid out on the bed. “You know, maybe this weekend, we stay here and let the kids have the condo. I'd love to make love to you right here. Also, pack up some underwear and some shirts and pants, so you can leave them at my place.”“Sounds like a plan to me. Where does Alan live anyways?” I asked“He actually lives with his mom. Close by campus. She is divorced for years now. I am actually pretty friends with her. We have gone out for drinks a few times and have had dinners at each other's places. She just adores Jenny, which makes it a whole lot nicer.”After a few more minutes, we left and went back to Carrie's. Of course we made love again that night, and early the next morning, before she had to leave for work. This arrangement worked out quite well for us.Chapter 22.By Thanksgiving time, we were comfortably into our relationship. Most nights were spent at her place, and most weekends were spent at mine. There wasn't a night we did not spend together. I was hooked on her. I never, in a million years, could believe I could wake up every morning with someone. This felt awesome to me and so special. I loved looking at her while she slept. I also enjoyed just sitting with her at night reading, or just watching TV, then retire to bed. The best part is when she folds herself into me and falls asleep. I love that most.Thanksgiving is time for family. This year though, I was spending dinner with Carrie, Jenny and Alan, and Alan's mom, Brenda. I usually would be at Ann's, but she understood. I did tell Ann we would be over after dinner to visit.Carrie and Brenda did all the cooking. Alan and I set the table, but then retired to the couch to watch some football. Jenny was out with the ladies, so this left only Alan and I alone. As we watched, Alan and I would talk some. He was a nice young man and had his head together. He told he would be graduating in the spring and already had a job lined up. He wanted to work a while before he went for his Masters.Then he looked around to see where the ladies were, and saw they were still very busy in the kitchen. “Mr. Roberts, Mark. I… I want to ask Jenny to marry me this Christmas. Do I ask her mom beforehand?”“Well Alan. To be honest, I think that would be a great idea. Are you absolutely sure of this? This is a huge step in your life?” He smiled and said, “Oh yeah. I have never been sure of anything like this. I love her so much and can't wait to start our lives together.”“Tell you what. You get Carrie alone one day soon and ask her. I'm sure she will give her blessing. But, she's not the one you need the blessing from. You know who that belongs to.” I told him.He chuckled, then said, “Yeah. I kind of had a feeling you would say that. But I don't know when I will ever see them before Christmas. That's not something you ask over the phone.”I laughed, then said back to him. “Oh you are so right there. That old bastard would kill you if you did it like that. When can you get a Friday off in the next couple of weeks?”He shrugged his shoulders, “I guess any Friday. I usually have labs on those days, so no biggie, why?”I shook my head. “Between you and I, and I mean this, you don't say a word to Jenny. I too, plan on asking Carrie to marry me. So pick a Friday. We'll tell our fine ladies we are doing a guy thing that day, which we are. But we'll fly down to Florida, and ask the Chief and Connie in person.”“Oh wow Mark. But I can't afford that. Heck, the ring I want to get is a bit over my budget.”“Don't worry about the flight, I'll handle that. Where did you get the ring, or see it?He smiled and said, “Over at the mall, at Kay Jewelers. It's only a half carat, but one day, I'll get her a bigger one.”“Look, tomorrow, the girls are going shopping with my sister, god help me. So why don't you come with me. A friend of mine is a jeweler and has a lot of nice rings. We'll figure it out from there.” He just nodded, and as he was about to speak Jenny popped in.“What are you two talking about. It looks like a very deep conversation.” We both laughed and said football.Dinner was excellent, but the people really made it nice. By the end of the meal, we were all tired. I helped, as did Alan, wish dishes. We figured the girls spent all morning in there fixing it, it's the least we could do. Thank God for dishwashers.That night and Ann's, Carrie and Ann talked nonstop. Jenny and Alan had also come along, but weren't staying long. I was very happy that Carrie and her family were so accepted by my family. Ann and Brad made them feel right at home. I announced that Christmas Eve dinner was at my house this year. Ann, of course, had to bust my balls and ask what take out I was using.“I'll have you know, I am a pretty damn good cook, huh Honey?” Carrie smiled, “Oh Yeah. He actually is. I was very surprised. Jarheads usually know only a couple of things. Walk, March, shoot guns and eat.” then laughed. “Nice Squid. Real Nice”Katie then asked, “Mom? What's a Jarhead?” which made us all start busting out in laughter.“Well Pumpkin, it's like this. See a Marine is a very special person. He, or she, is the very best and people in the other services are very jealous of us. So they call us very derogatory names, to make them feel better about the lowly service they belong too, like the Navy. Squids are so jealous.” then laughed.Carrie was rolling her eyes, then said “Dream on Jarhead. We are just smart enough to stay on a boat, while you get all the crap jobs on land. But, I still love ya.”Once home and lying in bed, Carrie told what a great day she had. She just loves my sister and feels rather close to her. She also said she was so glad that they even accepted Jenny and Alan. I told her that I was glad that they have accepted her as well, and that spending the day with her and Jenny, and Alan's family made this pretty special to me.“Carrie. I don't want any secrets between us, so I need to tell you this.” “Uh Oh” was her response. “It's not bad, not bad at all. Alan is going to come ask you for permission to marry Jenny”Carrie got to her knees, “Really? When? Oh my God. I knew that they would do this.”“Not sure when he is going to ask you, but I do know it is Christmas time he asking her. He's pretty much laid out his life and how he sees it, and he does have a good head on his shoulders. He said they would wait until Jenny graduates in a year and a half.”Carrie was still on her knees, but crying now. “I am so happy for them. Jenny wants to marry him, that I am sure of. She loves him as much as I love you. I just told her when the time comes, be smart, and wait on having kids. Enjoy being a couple, because once kids come, it's whole new ballgame.”“Now you better act surprised about this. He is so scared of what you may say.”“I will. I promise. He has nothing to fear from me, it's gonna be a YES”, then leaned down and kissed me. That kiss turn into a hot, passionate kiss, which led to a love making session. Can't wait to see what she is like when I ask her the same thing.Chapter 23.The next morning Carrie was up and out the door by 7am. I knew I had most of the day to myself, so I got dressed and headed over to my place. Alan and I were to meet at the jewelers around noon.Alan was right on time as we entered the building, which was in one of those strip style shopping centers. My friend, John, was behind the counter when he saw me walk in. After a few good minutes of catching up he directed us to the engagement ring area . Alan stated he had $1200 to spend. John showed him quite a few rings in that price range. He was looking for a pear shaped style. I saw one that was one carat and asked the price. John said he could let that one go for $1800. Alan said it looked great, but he couldn't afford it.“Do you think Jenny would like it?” “Yeah. She's love that.” he said. “Well then, get it. I'll make up the difference. My future stepdaughter should have the best.” “Mark. I promise to repay you as quick as I can.” “You pay me when you can afford too, and nothing sooner. We'll be family for many years to come.”Then John directed me to this one ring. It was marquis shaped with 6 small diamonds around it. It just screamed Carrie to me. It was set in a platinum band, which I already knew she liked. It wasn't to pretentious, or gaudy. John said I could have that one for five grand , normally $6500 for it. He said it was a size 8, but I am not sure of her size. He said, no matter, just bring it in after I give it to her and he would resize it, unless I could find out her size. I chuckled to myself, and thought, I should call her ex and ask.After leaving there, we grabbed a sandwich and beer at this one bar and grill I knew. Then headed over to my house to see about flights to Florida. Alan was so excited, and kept thanking me over and over. I knew now the kid's father had very little to do with him, since the divorce. He's been gone from their lives for almost 12 years now. So this felt pretty good, acting like a father figure to him. Kids coming out of boot camp are kind of like this. They look up to the sergeants when you get them in your platoon. So I know the look all too well, except I'm not going to yell at this one.Once at my house, we went online and found a flight, non-stop to Pensacola, that got us there by 10am, and then one returning at 2:30, arriving back here at 5pm. Before I made the purchase, I called Connie. She had given me her cell number before they left back in October.After the obligatory how are you's and how's Carrie. I told her my plan. I really wanted to surprise them both, but had to make sure they would be home that day. It would have sucked to fly down and find they were gone.“Oh Mark. You are such a good man. John will be so happy you did this. I know he likes and respects you. He has been hoping you would do something like this, marrying his little girl. But to fly all the way down here to ask his permission, well, you'll be at the top of his list. You already are on mine. I promise I won't say a word either.”We hung up after that, and I hit the button to buy the tickets. I didn't tell Connie about Alan coming or his question too. That should make the old man really feel good. Tickets for both of us, just set me back a grand, but it was worth it. I told Alan this one is on me, which he protested too, but I told him tough, get over it.Later that night, while in my bed, Carrie told me about her day with Ann, and shopping. She said she thinks this will be the best Christmas ever for her. Ann told her what she thought I needed and clothes sizes and such. I can just imagine what Ann helped her pick out. I got to admit, when it comes to clothes for me, Ann knew what I liked.Since that few days back in October, when I thought she wanted to call this whole thing off, we have grown closer. Although we are not in our early twenties, we still made love quite a bit. Four or five times a week. But just going to bed with her and waking in the morning and see her next to me, was like heaven. I could care less about the sex actually. That was the bonus. Great thing too, is that she loves sex and on the weekends, it was two or three times a day, unless her monthly friend showed up, but even then, when it first starts, she isn't opposed to doing it in the shower. That has happened twice since we started.Weekends too, was when naughty Carrie comes to play. She is very boisterous, and loves talking dirty. She is always a lady outside of the home, but inside, she gets down right slutty. One evening I let her tie me up to the post of my bed. She teased quite a bit that night. 69ing with me, but having her sex hover above my face, where I couldn't reach it. While she played with my cock. Then she'd lower herself down to let me lick her for about thirty seconds, then pull away again. It drove me insane with lust. When she finally turned around and lowered herself onto me, she rode me like a bull. The whole time asking me how her cunt felt and did I want to cum, and things like that. It was fun and adventurous for us, and we both love it. I really think she has a Domme side to her, deep down.Chapter 24.A few nights before Alan and I took off to Florida, I fibbed a bit and told Carrie that on Friday I was going to help Brad close up their cabin, that he and Ann have by a lake near us. Ann knew of my plans and was willing to go along with it. I told her that Alan was going to help too and that we should be back by 6 that evening. Since the cabin is only 20 minutes from the airport, I was going to swing by before our flight, and move a few chairs on the porch, to a shed he had. That way, I really didn't lie. I hate lying to her.We arrived in Florida about ten minutes early, which was good. I rented a car and was at John and Connie's in no time, thanks to GPS. The look on John's face was priceless when he opened the door and saw both of us standing there. Of course, he thought something was wrong.“What in the world are you two doing down here? Are the girls  okay?”I laughed and said all is fine with them. He let us in and we took a seat on the couch. “Well? What's up. You didn't fly down here for your health.”“John. Connie. I came down here to ask permission to marry your daughter.”“You flew down here just to ask that? What the hell, you could have called on the phone and saved time and money Shitbird.”“No John. You deserve more respect than that. If I am doing this, I want to do it right. So, do I have your permission?”He looked at Connie, who shook her head yes, then said, “Mark. I would be proud to call you my son in law. I may seem gruff at times, but I do like you and respect you, and I know you will treat my daughter good, which is all I can ask for. Connie and I want only the best for her, and Jenny too. So yes, you have our permission.”We shook hands and he actually gave me a hug, and of course Connie did too. Then John asked,“Did you need a wingman, bringing Alan down with you?”“No sir”, Alan said. “I would like permission too, to ask your granddaughter to be my wife.”“Jesus H. Christ. Both of you? Well son, are you sure you are ready for a step like this. That is one person I never want to see hurt, besides my wife and daughter.”“Sir. I have never been so sure of anything in my life. I graduate in May and have a job already lined up and Jenny graduates the following year, and then we would marry.”After looking at his wife again, who stood there smiling, he spoke, “Then I guess I see no point in denying you her hand. Promise me you will always take care of her and love her with all your heart, like we do.”“I promise Mr. Reynolds, I swear.” He chuckled, “I bet you were as nervous as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs to ask me this. Both of you clowns, so help me God, if you ever hurt those girls, I will hunt you down and hurt you real bad, and if I am too old, I still know people who can do it. You know the last one Carrie was with, the asshole, the best I could do is have him shipped to San Diego. I wanted to have him put on that team in the Aleutians (Alaska), but the CO thought that would not be a good fit for that team.”We stayed and had lunch with them, then got back to the airport with plenty of time. We did ask if they could come up for Christmas. They had plans for a few days later that week, but said they would be up on Christmas Eve, which I thought was perfect. We also planned on surprising the girls with their presence , that evening at my house since I was cooking dinner that night. John did make a crack about eating before he got there, in case my meal sucked.I got to Carrie's around 6:30, and we went to eat, then to my place. We just cuddled on the couch that night, then went to bed. I was pretty tired, and she completely understood, so we just fell asleep in each other's arms.The next day, we met Jenny and Alan back at Carrie's and headed over to this tree farm to cut down two Christmas tree's They take you out on a wagon, then when you find and cut it down, pick you up and bring you back to the Chalet, where you pay. The four of us had a great time and Carrie, and Jenny were giddy most of the day. I dropped the kids off at Carrie's and helped put the tree in its stand. Jenny was going to start decorating it, while Carrie and I did the same at my place. This is the first tree I have decorated in over twenty years. I was usually never home for the holidays, or if I was, it was for a few days and it was spent with mom and Ann.It took most of the afternoon and part of the evening to string lights and attach the antique ornaments my grandmother had at the house. Carrie did run out to the store and bought ribbon and bows, and some garland too. While we did this, she had Christmas music playing in the background and I had a fire lit in the fireplace. What was real nice, was that it was now snowing some. Not heavy, but a nice downfall, just like you would see in any Christmas movie.We were both dressed in jeans and sweaters, but she looks a lot cuter than I do, in hers. After we finished and ate delivered pizza, we retired to the couch, which faces the fireplace, and the tree, all lit up, standing in the corner by it. Carrie sat next to me, sipping wine, with her legs curled under her. We talked about what we needed to get for people. I had told her I wasn't sure what to get Ann and Brad, or even Jenny and Alan. I did buy the kids laptops for each of them. Ann had only one computer, which they all shared, so this would help out in that department. I know Ann and Brad were going to buy Kyle a used truck, for when he passed his driver's license test. He was taking the driver's ed course now.Carrie said she would help with Ann and Brad, but I didn't need to get Jenny anything. I told her to stop there. She is part of you and she deserves presents as well. Carrie did tell me she is going to get Jenny a car, after the first of the year. Right now, she didn't have one, but she was taking an internship at this one accounting agency, and needed one for that. Then we started kissing, which led to more kissing. I stopped, and got up.“Hold that thought”, I said. Then went to the back closet and pulled out my sleeping bag. I came back in and unrolled it, and unzipped it. I laid it out over the oval rug in front of the fireplace and went and took her by the hand and had her stand up.“Umm, I like how you think Mr. Roberts.” I slowly removed her sweater, then her bra. Of course I had to suck her tits a few times, before unbuttoning her jeans and slowly peeled them down, exposing her black thong. With me now on my knees, I used my teeth to pull her thongs down, and when they hit the floor, she stepped out of them. I didn't even bother with her socks. Now naked, I leaned in and lightly licked her sex, tasting her juices that she was already emitting. God, I love how she taste.She pulled me up then and pulled my sweater over my head and then my t-shirt. She now got on her knees and removed my jeans and then my boxers. When my engorged member sprung free, she licked it a few times, especially on the tip. “Yummy” she said.I had her lay on the sleeping bag, and she readily spread her legs for me, letting me gaze at her beauty. The Christmas lights, and the glow of the fire made her especially beautiful. I wasted little time in going down on her. I wanted her to orgasm in my mouth. I needed to taste her. I stayed down there for a long while. Bringing her off two times, before I kissed my way back up to her mouth, stopping along the way to such each tit into my mouth, which I knew she loved having done.As I kissed her passionately, I made sure my weight was not fully on her, and my hardened member lay at her opening, ready to enter paradise. Her hips gyrated below me, trying hard to have me enter her.“Baby. Please put it in. I need you so bad. I love you”I too, couldn't wait any longer and slid in. Once I was fully in, we both moaned out. We then proceeded to make slow love to one another. We had no rush to this, just two people, deeply in love, joined together, making us one. I have no idea how long we made love for, but it had to have lasted at least a good fifteen minutes. We were lost in each other, until Carrie finally moaned out “Oh God, I'm cumming Baby.” I didn't last too much longer and started shooting my seed deep within her. “I love you baby.” I said as I was cumming.After we calmed a bit, I noticed I was still hard and rolled us over so she was on top. I looked at her, as she sat up. The firelight danced over her skin. She looked incredible to me. “My God Baby, you look so beautiful” I said. “You are beautiful Mark. I love you so much. This is going to be the best holiday ever.” I smiled, and thought, “If you only knew my Love”Chapter 25.The next two weeks flew by. I had talked with Connie a couple of times. She said she told Carrie that they were going to New Orleans to visit with friends down there, from their Navy days. Carrie was a little bummed, but understood. Connie said their flight got in at 4pm that day. Jenny was going to pick them up and bring them over a little past 7, on that evening, along with Alan's mom. Ann was going to meet them out front, so they could follow her up the drive, without lights on. Very clandestine like. I had told Ann to wait until I turned the kitchen and dining room lights out, before sneaking in the back door, and to stay in the dining room until I actually proposed to Carrie. God I was nervous now. This to me, was the biggest leap of faith I would ever take in my life.Carrie came over around 5, on Christmas Eve. She was wearing this beautiful red dress that made her look like a Goddess. Had no one been coming over, I would have taken her then and there.“My God. You are more beautiful than I have ever seen you Ms. Reynolds.” I told her. She smiled and said, “You are just biased, and you want to get into my panties JH. Thank You though. Compliments are always welcome. I love you.”She helped me prepare the rest of dinner. We were having Standing Prime Rib, mashed potatoes, rolls, gravy, and a bean casserole that Carrie prepared. We then set the table for 8, on the dining room table. This table was big enough to feed a platoon on. Everything was almost ready.It was now just coming on 7pm. The roast was done and I removed it from the oven, to let it sit a while before carving. Carrie was standing near me, sipping a glass of wine. I reached the light switch and turned it off, and then walked into the dining room and did the same there. The only light was from the tree and fireplace.I went to the stereo and put on Carrie's favorite artist, Shania Twain. I took Carrie's hand and led her to the middle of the living room, as the music started. I took her glass and set it down, then pulled her into my arms and started to dance to “From This Moment On”As we danced, I made sure her head was not turned so she could see into the dining room. Towards the end of the dance I softly sang the lyrics to her.You're the reason I believe in loveAnd you're the answer to my prayers from up aboveAll we need is just the two of usMy dreams came true because of youFrom this moment as long as I liveI will love you, I promise you thisThere is nothing I wouldn't giveFrom this momentI will love you as long as I liveFrom this moment on.As the music started to end, I looked into her eyes, which were now glazed over with tears, and got to my knee. With her one hand in my, I looked up at her, then reached into my sport coat, and pulled out the ring.“Carolyn Ann. I love you more than life itself, and like the lyrics said, I can't wait to start living my life with you. Would you do me the honor and be my wife, and I your husband?”Her whole body tremble as I awaited her answer. “Oh My God Sweetheart, Yes”I stood and pulled her into me and we kissed a long and very passionate kiss. Just then, our combined family's started clapping and cheering. Carrie broke the kiss and saw her mom and dad coming towards us, with Jenny and Alan, then Ann and her family.Carrie broke from me and ran to her mom and hugged her tight, then her dad. She was now full out crying, and since she yes, it must be from joy. Connie then hugged me and told me how beautiful that scene just was. Jenny and Carrie were hugging and crying together now. Brad and Alan both shook my hand. Ann went up and hugged Carrie and welcomed her to the family, then she came to me.“Brother. You sometimes shock the hell out of me. I never knew you could be this romantic” Then kissed me and told me she loves me and I better take care of that woman, always.John finally came over to me, “Mark. Never in a million years would I have thought I'd be calling you son. But you know what, I am glad I am. You are the type of man I would want for a son. Welcome aboard to our family Son.” then hugged me. I could have sworn I saw a tear in his eye.Dinner was excellent and everyone was in a very festive mood. Carrie made a toast, after saying grace before dinner. “To the best Christmas ever. To Ann and Brad, and the kids, I am so grateful to be part of your lives now. You have made me feel part of your family since the day I met you. To you, mom and dad, and you Jenny, for always being there for me and teaching what love really is, so I can now share that with my future husband Mark, who I plan on growing very old with. I love you all”After dinner, the girls shooed us away and told us to relax while they did the dishes. Connie said it was only fair, since I did the cooking. It was well past 9pm when we were all together in the living room. Carrie and I already decided we would open our gifts the next morning, at her place with Jenny and Alan, and now her dad and mom. But we still had to exchange gifts with Ann and the family.Carrie handed out our gifts to them. To Ann, Carrie picked out a couple of sweaters and we got her a $200 visa gift card, so she could buy what she wanted for herself. We got Brad a new fishing reel and a $200 visa gift card. The gift cards were in a Christmas card signed Mark and Carrie. The kids each got a laptop and $100 gift cards. When they opened the cards, their mom asked what was written. Of course they could care less about what was written but said it was from “Uncle Mark and Aunt Carrie” I had signed all of the cards, but Carrie had no idea I wrote that. She squeezed my hand tightly then.Alan and Jenny were sitting by the tree and had opened their presents from my sister. Then Alan reached around the tree and produced a box, and handed it to Jenny. “Please open this Honey.”Jenny was now sort of kneeling and slowly opened the box. Inside was a figurine of a bride. Around the head and neck, was the ring he bought a few weeks back. Jenny just Gasped. Alan was kneeling now too and took her hand.“I was going to wait until the morning, but I just can't. I want everyone to see and hear this. Jennifer Lynn, would you marry me and become my wife and the mother, someday, to our children”Jenny broke down and started crying, but finally said “Yes”, then actually tackled him and started kissing him. Jenny was over the moon now, as was Carrie and Connie, and Alan's mom. Lots of excitement this night, that's for sure. I went out to the fridge and took out 2 bottles of champagne that I had snuck in the back and opened them. With John's help, we gave everyone a glass, including the kids and toasted to a merry Christmas.Katie made me chuckle when she asked if Jenny was now their cousin. I said officially, no, not until Carrie and I marry, but yeah, she is. “Oh Cool. I don't have any girl cousins”, which made us all laugh.I was sitting in the one arm chair, and Carrie in my lap. Of course she had to wiggle her ass a few times, which wasn't the best thing to do, because Mr. happy liked the attention and started to rise. I whispered in her ear, “Keep it up and I'll take you upstairs and take care of this problem I am having.” She giggled and said, “Promises. Promises”Then Carrie asked, “Mark. Did you ask my dad for permission?” I just smiled and said, “Oh Yeah. I'm not that dumb. Actually. Remember two weeks ago when I was helping Brad at the cabin?” she nodded, “Well, Alan and I did go there at 5:30am. I can see Alan is not the type that likes getting up at Oh Dark Thirty either, but, we did go over there. Moved three things to the shed, then left for the airport. We flew down to Florida, got to your parents by 11, had lunch, asked Chief and your mom for their blessings, then back up here by 5 that evening, and you two fine ladies weren't the wiser. So before you say anything, we did not lie, but did not disclose our whole agenda. No way could I lie to you Babe.”John was laughing as I was recounting that day. “Oh yeah, I open the door to find these two Shitbirds. My first thought was something happened to one of you, but then Mark sorted it out for me. Connie already knew he was coming. But I'll tell you. I couldn't ask for two finer men to take care of my girls, than these two.After that, everyone started to leave. We told them we'd be over in the morning, and to not open stuff without us there. As soon as we saw the lights of their cars fade away, Carrie turned off the lights and pulled me upstairs.Carrie turned on the lamp, next to the bed, then turned off the overhead lights. She seductively stripped down for me, and I just stood there in amazement. Once naked, she stood there. So I stripped as well. Not as seductive as she had done, but still slow. I stood a foot away from here and she took both of my hands in hers.She smiled at me, “Baby, you have no idea how lucky I feel and so loved right now. What you see in front of you, is yours, until the day we die. I am all yours.”I smiled at her then, and said, “Babe. For the life of me, I don't know how I ever got as lucky to be with a beautiful person, as you are. I don't mean just in looks, but the whole essence of you. You are my life, and no one will ever come between us. I Love you Carrie”She led me to the bed and we lay beside each other. Her newly ringed hand reached around the shaft of my member and held it gently. “I love this ring Baby. And, quite frankly, it looks really good right now. When did you know you wanted to marry me?”My eyes looked into hers, “Honestly, I wish I could say that first kiss on Whiteface Mountain. But it wasn't then. I knew at that point I had a shot with you though. But, it was the night I made you dinner and drew your bath. I knew then, when you said I love you back to me, that this was it. And, it's gotten better every day since.”She crawled up on top of me, and without any help from our hands, slipped my hard member into her waiting sex. Looking up at her, after we both moaned, “When did you know this was real for us?”“When we kissed on that rock. There was just something about it. But when we made love that Saturday night in the cabin and professed our love to each other. I knew in my heart then. But finally, when you stuck by me, with that stupid ordeal back in October, I knew this man was it.”“Baby, there was no way I was walking away from you. Not then , not ever. Were you surprised this happened tonight?” I asked.She grinned, “Yes and no. I thought maybe tomorrow, and if not then, then Valentine's Day. But tonight threw me. But picking one of my favorite songs to dance too, then asking me then, well it made me speechless. Then to have our whole family here too. You made this the best Christmas I have ever had.”Carrie started pumping up and down on me now. She didn't want to talk anymore. She wanted to complete our love making. It really did not take us long either. Throughout the whole time, our lips were locked together, until we were both ready to cum.“Oh God Baby. I have to cum” I spoke out loudly. “Cum Baby. Give me it all. I Love You Mark”I started cumming deep inside her, and about half way through, she started cumming. My hands were holding her ass as she did. I could feel goosebumps on her cheeks, as she let loose with her orgasm. It was very powerful too. Her whole body was wiggling around as our orgasms continued.We kissed one last time, then both told each other I love you. I wouldn't let her leave me though and she settled in on top of me and we both fell asleep.Chapter 26.Christmas Day saw us going all over the place. First, I took Carrie out to the barn out back. Inside was my old 93 Ford Mustang Boss. I bought this right after boot camp. It was rarity that I got to drive it much. Sometimes, six months would elapse before it got driven. The most use I got out of it was when I was stationed at Quantico. When I moved back here, after getting out, I bought my truck. So this car just sits, except for an occasional spin. It's silver with black interior, and has the 5 liter engine, which is a small V8. The only enhancement it has, is a new radio that has Bluetooth for the phone. It is in mint condition and only has 22,000 miles on it.Carrie asked where did I get this. So I told her about its history. Then I told her I was going to give this to Jenny. “Oh My God Mark. You can't do that. This is an antique, isn't it?”“No. Not yet. Couple of more years. But she needs a car and I never use it. So why not let someone, who I happen to like and is going to be my daughter one day, have it.”“You amaze me JH. You don't have a selfish bone in your body. And you are right, she is going to have you for a father one day. I know she likes that idea too. The ex was never really close with her in the first place, and when I kicked him out, he has never even tried to contact her. Just be patient with her and love her Mark. That's all I ask.”I knew I was going to do this too, after Carrie said she had to buy a car for her. So I had it checked out at the garage I go too, and had new tires put on it. So it was good to go. She'll just have to watch driving in snow. Rear wheel drive and snow don't always mix well.When we arrived that morning, everyone was up. Connie had made cinnamon buns and coffee, which we all enjoyed, while opening presents. After all the presents were opened, I handed Jenny a small gift bag. “From us” I said. Her eyes got real big when she saw they keys. Then ran to the front door and opened it. When she saw the car, she squealed with excitement. This girl was in a fuzzy robe and put on sneakers and ran out to it. Then came back inside and ran up to me and hugged me.“Thank You so much Mark” then planted kisses all over my cheeks. Then she thanked her mom. I told her it was hers to use and to be careful with it. I then told her we would help with insurance and stuff like that. But it is her responsibility to maintain it. “You guys are the best. Come Papa. let me show you my new car.” she said. Jenny, Alan, and John trudged out into the cold. I told Connie that the car is old, but nowhere near the mileage that the old Seadog has on him. Connie winked at me and said, “You know Mark. I think you are going to make one great father.”That New Year's Eve, we were invited to a couple of parties, but we begged off and stayed home. We made dinner together. Watched some movies, then made love at midnight. We did talk about Carrie moving in here, with me. She readily agreed, and two weeks later, she moved in. Jenny and Alan moved into her condo. All Carrie asked of them was to make sure no babies were produced yet. At some point, once the kids were established, and found their own place after they were married, she would sell the condo. Luckily for us, this was not a drain on finances. She made almost $100 grand a year at her job and mine was bringing in almost double that, and this house was paid for.We did settle down and bought new furniture for all over. I let that up to her, and Ann helped out. Those two become thick as thieves. If I was to ever argue with Carrie, I'd never win, but we never argue. We do discuss stuff and come to common ground. One thing was constant though, and that was our love making. I made sure we had at least one date night a week, and I always try to be romantic.The first weekend in October, Carrie and I married. When Carrie got married the first time, it was in front of a judge. So she never had a real wedding, and, her parents weren't there for it, depriving her dad the chance to give her away.The one thing she did ask me to wear was my dress blues. I had to check to make sure that I was still allowed, and found out that it was  okay for that. I had to bring that out of mothballs. I even had the sword. MY uni had 5 gold service stripes indicating 20 years, plus a lot of ribbons and medals on the pocket area.John too, wore his dress blues, or winter uniform. Now he had 9 gold sleeve stripes, since he was just shy of 40 years in. His front pocket area had to weigh a ton with all the service ribbons and medals. He wore blue, so he wouldn't upstage his daughter, in her white dress.Seeing her come down the aisle, with her father, was one of the best days of my life. She was radiant and so beautiful. She picked From This Moment On as her entrance song, instead of the traditional wedding march. Jenny served as her maid of honor, and Brad served as my best man. Alan and Ann were in it as well, as was Kyle and Katie. We both have a small circle of friends, and limited family, so the reception wasn't really big, maybe 50 people in all, but we all had a great time. We spent our first night of the honeymoon, in my uncle's cabin, after climbing up Whiteface Mountain and kissed on that very same rock, where we did the first time.I do remember, as I stood there, at the altar, holding Carrie's hands and was reciting her vows to me, all I thought was,“All this, because I bumped into a this beautiful woman at the ranger's station, who just happened to be a bit clumsy and sprain her ankle later, on a path near the cabin I was staying at. Life is good.”by T. Foxal.

In this insightful episode of "Leaders, Innovators, and Big Ideas" (LIBI), host Rea Hailley engages with Ron Szekely, a seasoned business coach specializing in helping founder-led companies scale effectively. Ron shares his extensive experience transitioning from corporate juggernauts like L'Oreal to coaching smaller enterprises. The conversation highlights the critical transformation needed in leadership and structure for scaling businesses, the challenges of maintaining accountability, and the exciting yet daunting integration of AI in business practices. Ron offers practical strategies to avoid the pitfalls of stagnation and propel businesses towards sustainable growth and innovation. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast where we showcase fascinating people who are Leaders, Innovators, and have Big Ideas! Host: Rea Hailley Driven by a deep-seated belief in the power of entrepreneurship, Rea leads New Idea Machine in empowering businesses with innovative digital solutions. Having witnessed the grit and triumph of her parents building a business from scratch, Rea is passionate about enabling significant revenue growth and seamless operations for startups and Small/Medium Businesses, ensuring their dedication translates into tangible success. Guest: Ron Szekely lives and works at the intersection of creativity and commerce, helping leaders build compelling businesses, brands, and teams with the potential to change the world. He has always viewed the business world as a delicate dance between art and science. Growing up as a magician performing at children's parties, Ron discovered early on the power of suspending disbelief, imagining potential outcomes, and reading a room. This early fascination centered on unrealized futures, endless possibilities within designed constraints, and parameters of control. Ron studied both marketing and design at university, with ambitions of working in advertising—an environment where controlled creativity serves the needs of business. Ron's career in marketing spans 25+ years, including executive roles with global enterprises such as L'Oréal, Sanofi, and Keurig, where he led large teams and managed multi-million-dollar budgets. While he thrived within the structured environment of large corporations, he has also been drawn to the passion and drive found in entrepreneurial ventures. Transitioning to founder-led companies, Ron served as Head of Marketing and Innovation for several of Canada's fastest-growing consumer goods brands, skillfully blending profitable growth with purpose-driven brand experience. Ron has experienced the full spectrum of the business world, from large corporate structures to scaling start-ups to founding his own marketing agency. Throughout his journey, he has developed a deep appreciation for the spirit of possibility that fuels growth. His passion for entrepreneurship led him to create BOS360, a proprietary and progressive business coaching methodology and practice. BOS360 fuses the art and science of business across strategy, brand, and team—unlocking growth and cultivating happy, healthy, high-performing companies. Ron is not a traditional business coach. He immerses himself empathetically in his client's business to uncover their unique value, asking the uncomfortable questions and leveraging inversion and varied mental models to turn obstacles into opportunities, finding the simple path to greatness. For Ron, true growth is where intelligence becomes creative. At his core, Ron Szekely is a business idealist, believing that perception is reality. Grounded in truth, he uses optimism to help light the path forward for inspiring entrepreneurs. Ron firmly believes that optimism is a success builder and a strategy that can be operationalized to create scalable businesses and a better future. Show Links: BOS360  Show Quotes: "A doom loop happens when you really get caught in the short term... It's making sure that they step back a little bit and recognize that they're in a doom loop." "It's the only tool that will tell you how to best utilize it ... Have you asked it? ... It will go in detail about the industry overall, about their specific company." "Becoming better and better at what they do, the more they do it ... creates a momentum where the bigger they get, the easier it gets." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

We’ve been doing these shows where we don’t book any guests, where we fill the hour with your calls. And your calls have been interesting and surprising and amusing. This hour, the conversation winds around to Squid Game, the routinization of protests, the elusive Jeffrey Epstein report, 9/11 and the movies Fight Club and Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Harvey, Keurig coffee makers, too much plastic everywhere … Anything. (Seemingly) everything. These shows are fun for us, and they seem to be fun for you, too. So we did another one. You can now watch our calls shows on Connecticut Public’s YouTube. Subscribe and get notified when we go live. Or join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter. The Colin McEnroe Show is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode! Subscribe to The Noseletter, an email compendium of merriment, secrets, and ancient wisdom brought to you by The Colin McEnroe Show. Colin McEnroe, Robyn Doyon-Aitken, and Dylan Reyes contributed to this show.Support the show: http://www.wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Een stuk of 25 heel kleine bolletjes, groen-geel van kleur, en dan keurig in het gelid. In de Radiotuin ligt een blaadje van een struik waarop die bolletjes te zien zijn. Het blijken eitjes te zijn, vertelt Eric tegen Remco.

In this lively episode of Wise_N_Nerdy, Charles and Joe kick things off with the classic Question of the Week:“What's one thing you bought that ended up being so essential to your daily life, you now wonder how you ever lived without it—and wish you had discovered it years earlier?”Joe shares how his shower speaker has transformed his mornings, letting him keep up with podcasts and audiobooks even while getting ready. Charles proudly champions his Keurig, calling it a daily essential that fuels his productivity and sanity alike.With the traditional roll of the dice, the hosts jump into the Parliament of Papas segment, discussing a tricky Reddit scenario: a daughter breaks the rules during a sleepover—was the dad too harsh, or just being a parent? Charles and Joe explore the balance between enforcing boundaries and guiding kids through consequences.Next up, it's a spoonful of humor with Mary Poppins–themed bad dad jokes, thanks to Discord regular TheFullRunThrough. Expect groans, grins, and a surprising amount of umbrella puns.The dice then lead to the How Do I...? segment, sparking a heartfelt discussion about teaching children to handle losses with dignity and grace—an important life lesson that goes beyond sports and games.After that, the What Are You Nerding Out About? segment lets the geek flags fly high:Charles dives into his excitement for the new mobile game Marvel Mystic Mayhem and shares how thrilled he is to start tutoring on Wyzant.Joe beams about The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson, sharing why this epic fantasy novel has captured his imagination.Finally, the boys wrap up with the Daddy, Tell Me A Story segment, where Charles hilariously recounts Joe's carefree attitude from the last episode—prompting laughs and playful ribbing.As always, Find your FAMdom here each week—where the stories are real, the laughs are genuine, and fandom meets family.Wise_N_Nerdy: Where Fatherhood Meets Fandom

Meneer de president, wat bent u toch een geweldig mens. Chapeau voor het bombardement op Iran en voor die vijf procent. U verdient de Nobelprijs voor de Vrede, de aanvraag is al op de post. U bent de redder van de wereld – wat héét, van het heelal. Wilt u nog een Cola Light? Mogen we uw teennagels knippen? En wilt u dan alstublieft, alstublieft, alstublieft voor ons land een ietsepietsie lagere heffing instellen? Hoe komt het toch dat vrijwel elk land in de wereld zich zo laat intimideren door deze ene man? Dat, als hij zegt brieven te gaan vesturen aan twaalf landen over de te verwachten extra heffing, in zowat alle hoofdsteden staatshoofden en regeringsleiders met geknepen billen schietgebedjes prevelen in de hoop dat de toorn van de keizer niet op hen neerdaalt, maar een landje verderop? Het gaat er niet om of de keizer gelijk heeft. Het is helemaal niet zo’n gek idee om invoerrechten beter met elkaar af te stemmen, maar dan gebaseerd op redelijkheid en de behoefte van de industrie. Het is misschien nog wel een beter idee om de Wereld Handels Organisatie eens stevig door elkaar te schudden. China, de tweede economie ter wereld, staat daar nog altijd te boek als ontwikkelingsland. Van de ratten besnuffeld is dat. Maar als de keizer met een of andere bizarre heffing komt, waarom zeggen landen dan niet ‘zoek het eens lekker uit’? En dat kán, want Amerika is wel de grootste, maar niet de enige economie ter wereld. Het Amerikaanse handelstekort met allerhande landen is het gevolg van de behoefte aan buitenlandse producten, omdat die niet alleen vaak goedkoper zijn, maar ook beter. Toyota is de bestverkochte auto ter wereld, en een van de beste, maar door Japan met een heffing van 25 procent te treffen gaan de Amerikanen niet plotseling over op een minder degelijke Amerikaanse auto. De tactiek is slim. Eerst dreigen met een absurde heffing, dan uitstel, dan onderhandelen, en dan zijn landen dolblij als ze er met een Amerikaanse minimumheffing van ‘maar’ tien procent vanaf komen. Hoezo blij? Die tien procent kwam op 5 april, des keizers ‘bevrijdingsdag’, uit het niets, en nu zeggen al die bevende regeringsleiders en staatshoofden: gelukkig maar, we komen met de schrik vrij. Hallo, die tien procent is een hoop geld! Het is een race naar de afgrond. De dag komt naderbij waarop een klein staatshoofdje uit een klein landje opstaat en roept: de keizer heeft geen kleren aan. Maar wel keurig geknipte teennagels.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1056: Today we're talking about Elon Musk's dramatic exit from government, the rising appeal of extended-range EVs as a hybrid-EV mashup, and how Amazon wants to talk you into your next purchase—literally—with AI-generated audio highlights.Show Notes with links:Elon Musk has exited his role as a special government employee under the Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), after a controversial 130-day crusade to slash federal spending.Musk's off-boarding began suddenly, without a direct talk with Trump.His DOGE plan aimed to cut $2 trillion but claimed only $175B in savings—an unverifiable figure.He aggressively targeted federal telework policies and agency redundancies, prompting both voluntary exits and court challenges.Clashes with cabinet members and critiques of Trump's tax plan sped his exit.Musk, reflecting on the challenge: “The federal bureaucracy situation is much worse than I realized.”With hybrids on the rise and EV momentum cooling, automakers are revisiting a once-overlooked technology: the extended-range electric vehicle (EREV). Acting like an EV with backup, EREVs offer consumers a new kind of compromise.EREVs run on electric motors exclusively; the gas engine charges the battery, not the wheels.Sales in China are up, and new models are coming stateside from Ram, Nissan, Ford, and Scout.Ram's 2025 Ramcharger boasts 145 miles of electric range and a total of 690 with the gas engine.ZF and other suppliers are betting big on smaller, smarter range-extender systems launching globally.“EREVs...provide the benefits of an EV with the flexibility of a hybrid, at a relatively lower cost,” said AlixPartners' Dan Hearsch.Amazon is rolling out a new AI-powered audio feature designed to make product research less of a chore. “Hear the highlights” offers short audio summaries of key product info—ideal for the multitasking shopper.The feature pulls from product pages, reviews, and web data to generate brief, conversational scripts that are read by AIIt's currently being tested on select products like a Ninja Blender and Keurig coffee maker.Amazon VP Rajiv Mehta says it's “like having helpful friends” talk through your shopping choices.It may soon integrate with Alexa+, Amazon's upgraded AI voice assistant, to power hands-free buying.CEO Andy Jassy revealed Amazon is developing 1,000+ generative AI tools, calling AI the “reinvention” of customer experience.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Keurig Green Mountain (KGM) invented a category and became a household name in at-home coffee brewing in North America. But by the early 2010s, the public company suffered a series of product missteps, negative media scrutiny, and challenging partner relationships. In late 2015, the company was acquired by JAB Holding Company. The new CEO Bob Gamgort first strengthened partnerships, raised productivity, and reduced costs. In 2017, the company then focused on new growth. Gamgort considered four major options: take the company public again through an IPO; set out for greater global expansion; combine with another coffee business to become a larger player in North American coffee; or diversify beyond coffee through a “pure play beverage” strategy. In this conversation, HBS Senior Lecturer David Fubini and Research Associate Patrick Sanguineti discuss the four strategic options from their case study, “Keurig: A Return to Growth.”

In this episode, Greenbook's Karen Lynch sits down with Sarah Snudden, Head of US Consumer Insights at JDE Peet's, for a lively conversation spanning career journeys, coffee obsession, and cutting-edge AI innovation. Sarah shares how her path led from Clorox and Seventh Generation to premium beverage insights at JDE Peet's, and how she's using AI agents to explore white space innovation and generate impactful product names.They also unpack key takeaways from IIEX North America, including the evolving role of emotion in insights, why AI must serve research—not define it—and how industry connections fuel continuous learning. A must-listen for insight pros navigating fast-changing tech and business needs.Key Discussion Points:Sarah's career evolution from Clorox to Keurig to JDE Peet's and her passion for premium coffee brands like L'OR and Tea FortéUsing AI agents for innovation: how One Strategy Studio's modular model helps identify white space and accelerate namingThe changing conversation around AI in research: moving from hype to practical use casesTakeaways from IIEX North America, including standout sessions, trends, and why human insight still mattersAdvice for researchers ready to experiment with new tools: start small, focus on outcomes, and skip the tech jargonResources & Links:JDE Peet'sOne Strategy StudioIIEX North AmericaYou can reach out to Sarah Snudden on LinkedIn.Many thanks to Sarah Snudden for being our guest. Thanks also to our production team and our editor at Big Bad Audio.

Toveling the Water Reservoir of a KeurigSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/ten-minute-halacha/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

$1000 Minute advantage (0:07), what the fact (2;00), summer drinks (8:23), What's Trending: Patio season, Loblaw & viral Costco item is here in HRM (20:40), $1000 Minute (30:00), modern convenience cant live without! (34:30), Keurig vs Nespresso (49:00), Mindbender; 12%of people who are dating sy if they saw this hobby on their dating profile, it would be a deal breaker! (1:00) Follow us on Instagram: @MOVE100Halifax, @ErinHopkinsFM & @PeterAtMove100

Dr. Pepper parent company Keurig is on a roll in the soda market. The company surpassed profit estimates while other companies in the space like Pepsi projected a decrease. So why is Keurig doing so well amid a soda and snack industry overhaul? Plus: Microsoft offers low performers a way out and McDonald's brings back chicken strips permanently. Join our hosts Jon Weigell and Mark Dent as they take you through our most interesting stories of the day. Get our Side Hustle Ideas Database: https://clickhubspot.com/thds Follow us on social media: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehustle.co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehustledaily/ Thank You For Listening to The Hustle Daily Show. Don't forget to hit Subscribe or Follow us on Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode! If you want this news delivered to your inbox, join millions of others and sign up for The Hustle Daily newsletter, here: https://thehustle.co/email/  Plus! Your engagement matters to us. If you are a fan of the show, be sure to leave us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hustle-daily-show/id1606449047 (and share your favorite episodes with your friends, clients, and colleagues).

On this very special episode of the Coffee Sprudgecast, hosts Jordan Michelman and Zachary Carlsen list off all the incredible things to see, do, and experience at this weekend's SCA Expo in Houston, Texas. On the show we also try out the new double-the-size AeroPress XL and make not one but TWO delicious YesPlz “Soft Power” Blend coffees in one pump! It's a genuine flavor journey and testament to the size and girth of one of specialty coffee's favorite brew methods. To celebrate coffee history's final SCA Expo we make ourselves elevated coffees with the convenience of a Keurig. We recently partnered with a company called BestCup who crafts Keurig compatible “Hi-Fi Coffee Pods” using quality coffees roasted by respected roasters like Amavida and La Barba (just to name a few). It marks the first time Sprudge has had a Keurig machine in its podcast studio. Did our hosts enjoy it? Listen along to find out! This episode of the Coffee Sprudgecast is sponsored by Ceado, Pacific Barista Series, La Marzocco, Ghirardelli, and DONA.

In this episode of the Slightly Biased Podcast, Vinny and Grayson dive headfirst into parenting nightmares, gaming comebacks, and pop culture spirals. It's a chaotic ride through Massachusetts weather, Nintendo Switch debates, and nuclear apocalypse movie recs, all powered by too much coffee and not enough sleep. Topics Covered This Episode: Parenting challenges: Late-night baby energy, the horrors of sleep debt, and the pacifier massacre heard 'round the house Gaming returns: Revisiting Animal Crossing, Stardew Valley, Balatro, and Atomfall on Xbox Game Pass Coffee talk: Ceramic vs. stainless steel mugs, reusable K-Cups, and Keurig deep-cleaning secrets Pop culture analysis: MCU burnout, Threads (1984) vs. The Day After, and the trauma of modern reboots (Wonka, Ghostbusters, Jumanji) Plus, a nostalgic detour through Worcester, Massachusetts, tales of Hotel Vernon, and hot takes on Taika Waititi, Pedro Pascal, and why some actors need to chill out. Keywords: podcast, parenting humor, sleep training, Massachusetts lifestyle, Nintendo Switch, retro gaming, MCU, nuclear apocalypse movies, coffee taste test, Keurig cleaning, pop culture, reboot fatigue, celebrity culture, Slightly Biased Podcast Recorded 4/12/2025. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @slightlybiased_. Visit our home on the web at www.slightlybiasedpodcast.com This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

The conversation covered various topics, including the quality of ground coffee versus Keurig, the NBA draft lottery conspiracy, and the use of the Signal app by the U.S. government for secure communication. They discussed the potential for remote viewing and the existence of a device called the coronavisor, which supposedly allows viewing of past events. The discussion also touched on the concept of quantum entanglement and its implications for group intelligence and communication. Additionally, they mentioned the challenges of archiving sensitive government communications and the potential for future time travel. The discussion delved into the concept of predicting future events using statistical analysis, referencing Major League Baseball contests where large sums are offered for correct predictions. The "wisdom of the crowd" theory was highlighted, emphasizing the reliability of large sample sizes. The conversation also explored time travel and the multiverse theory, suggesting that altering the past could create alternate universes. Additionally, they discussed the implications of traveling at the speed of light, where time effectively stops. The segment concluded with a humorous anecdote about a golf simulator and a brief mention of a new entertainment venue in New Orleans.

What separates a good brand from an iconic one? This week, Chris Kneeland, co-founder of Cult Collective and expert in brand loyalty, joins me to break down the strategies behind cult-like brands and what makes them stand the test of time.Chris shares how brands like John Deere, Airbnb, and Lululemon built deep emotional connections with their audiences—and how you can apply these lessons to your own brand.In this episode, we explore the psychology of branding, why great brands focus on belief systems over behaviors, and how companies can create lasting communities instead of just selling products. Chris also shares his insights on brand storytelling, marketing evolution, and why the best companies aren't afraid to break the mold.Whether you're building a business from the ground up or looking to strengthen your existing brand, this conversation is packed with actionable insights that will change the way you think about marketing and branding.About ChrisChris Kneeland is the cofounder of Cult Collective, a marketing advisory firm, Cult Ideas and he also cofounded The Gathering, a Forbes top-rated business conference. Chris is a proven business leader with an impressive track record of increasing revenue and brand relevance. He specializes in delivering profitable growth through the smarter deployment of discretionary resources, improving specific elements of the customer journey that matter most, and increasing internal and external engagement via the masterful application of proven “cult brand” principles.Chris possesses enviable audience engagement expertise and have driven sustainable growth for some of North America's most beloved brands, including Harley Davidson, Best Buy, H-E-B, The Home Depot, Canadian Tire, GoDaddy, Keurig, and John Deere. He has helped launch over a dozen start-ups and currently serves as a Fractional CMO for companies earning between $25MM-$250MM annually.Chris believes in building brands from the inside out (i.e., enhancing corporate culture and employee engagement), developing customer-centric org structures, and delivering category-leading KPI's. He champions change management best practices and excels at developing effective frameworks, strategies, and action plans. He's also a dynamic presenter and elevates what customers and employees believe is possible. Chris has a master's degree from Northwestern University and a B.A. from Brigham Young University. Connect with Chrishttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-kneeland-838b2921/www.cultgathering.comwww.cultideas.comConnect with VeronicaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vromney/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vromney/If you're serious about advancing your career in marketing and you're looking for some personal insights into how then I invite you to schedule a free Pathway to Promotion call with me: https://pathwaycall.com/If you found value in today's episode, I would appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review.

In this episode of Petworking, host Peter Kenseth sits down with Cecilia, founder and CEO of BistroCat, to explore how this innovative "Kitty Keurig" is revolutionizing cat care. Launching in November 2025, BistroCat isn't just an automated wet food feeder - it's a comprehensive health monitoring platform that could change how we understand feline health.Discover how BistroCat tracks eating behaviors to detect health issues before they become severe, why the company delayed their launch to incorporate customer feedback, and the surprising data insights that have major pet food brands eager to partner with them. Plus, learn about their acceptance into Mars Petcare's LEAP Venture Studio and their plans for veterinary telehealth integration.As cats have historically been underserved in both veterinary medicine and pet tech, BistroCat represents an important step forward in recognizing cats' unique needs. Use code "PETWORKING" for 40% off when you pre-order with a food subscription!

Bex Scott introduces us to an article from ClickAmericana.com all about gadgets and kitchen appliances from the 60s. She opens with a story about her finds from a recent Value Village thrifting trip that got her thinking about the sorts of small appliances she often finds there. What kind of futuristic ideas in kitchen gadgetry did the 1960s produce? And how did they advertise these new products? Join Bex to find out. From wall and under counter mounted can openers to bun warmers and toaster ovens, it's all here. The article features stunning images of the retro ads complete with color photos. Follow along with Bex as she learns which meat grinder can also grind hard almonds, the five good reasons for owning a General Electric rotisserie oven, and how 60s visionaries combined a portable mixer with a knife sharpener for the sake of convenience. Do you remember Presto coffee makers in white? Did you have a Redi-Oven? This episode will either make you scratch your head over the idea of owning an avocado colored blender or take you down memory lane with a Salton bun warmer.Resources discussed in this episode:Mid Century Show and Sale in Calgary, AB - April 12, 2025“1960s gadgets & small kitchen appliances made life a little easier” on ClickAmericana.com—Contact Rebecca Scott | Pyrex With Bex: Website: PyrexWithBex.comInstagram: @pyrexwithbex— TranscriptBex Scott: [00:00:02] Hey everybody, it's Bex Scott and welcome to the Pyrex with Bex podcast, where you guessed it, I talk about vintage Pyrex, but also all things vintage housewares. I'll take you on my latest thrifting adventures, talk about reselling, chat with other enthusiasts about their collections, and learn about a bunch of really awesome items from the past. Subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you love listening to podcasts so you don't miss a beat. Everybody, this is Bex Scott and you are listening to the Pyrex with Bex podcast. I wanted to start off this episode with a little Value Village thrift store adventure. So I went into town with my husband and our daughter. Of course, she fell asleep on the way in. We were running some errands and we had some time to kill, so I asked Rob, my husband, if we could stop at Value Village and he said sure. So I let him stay in the car with our daughter, and I ran in to do a quick little ten minute run around the store, see if anything good was there. And lately Value Village hasn't been that great. There's been a lot of just broken things or missing pieces to things that I found. Today was a decent day, so there were some pretty beat up Pyrex. There was a Woodland Cinderella set, only three of the dishes, and it was priced at $35. It had some damage on the largest bowl, and I did consider it for a second, but I just couldn't justify paying $35 for that and the condition that it was in. Bex Scott: [00:01:47] I also found a Homestead 403 mixing bowl that had been through years of dishwasher use, and they wanted $15 for it. And another primary set, blue 401. They wanted $6 for it and it was missing a lot of its color. So that was a bit of what I found today. That was a disappointment. I did, however, find six mugs from the Spring Blossom Tabletopware coordinates set. These are the nine ounce mugs that were sold in sets of four, and I found six in this pattern. So I picked them up and they were a great price. I was a bit sad though because I found them, I grabbed them and then I walked down to the other aisle and this little girl looked at me and I gave her a smile. I thought she was just being friendly, but then I heard her say, hey mom, I just saw somebody take those green flower mugs. And the mom said, don't worry, we left them there for a reason. And I felt so bad because this little girl obviously wanted to take these mugs home, but the mom was set on her not having them for some reason, probably because they didn't need six vintage mugs in their house for their kids to use. But I hope she knows that they're going to a good home. Bex Scott: [00:03:13] I also found this amazing enamel fondue set in like a mustardy color with little flowers all over it, and it came with, I think it was six melamine divided plates and four forks with different colored plastic handles. That whole set is going to be in an upcoming mid-century modern show that I have a booth at in Calgary. It is my very first show that I'm ever doing. I have a ten by ten booth, three tables, so I'm excited to be thrifting to find some pieces that I can put in that show. If any of you are in Calgary and you hear this episode before I go to the show, it's April 12th, 2025, so you can catch me there and come and see some of the awesome pieces of Pyrex that I'm going to have there, and just other, other things that I have found over the last year or so. Going to Value Village today kind of brings me to my episode, where I always go down the appliance section, and I never expect to find anything in this section. It's usually a bunch of really beat up, lately it's been donut makers, those little instant donut makers or cake pop makers, so nothing really great in vintage, but it got me thinking about kind of the small kitchen appliances that people used in their home in the 1960s. Bex Scott: [00:04:47] So I was doing some research and I came across this really great article in, the websites called Click Americana.Com. So go to my show notes and navigate to this article. It's called 1960s Gadgets and Small Kitchen Appliances Made Life a Little Easier, and this episode is going to be a bit of a read through the article and take you through it, but I want you to make sure that you see these photos, because a lot of them are clips taken from old catalogs and magazines, and it'll give you a really great idea of the pieces and the appliances that they had in their kitchens. And a lot of these I have seen at Value Village before, and other thrift stores, and some of them I even have in my basement right now waiting to be sold. So it's kind of a bit of an educational episode and a fun little show and tell as well. Bex Scott: [00:05:40] So the first one we have is the retro wall-mounted manual can opener by Can-O-Mat. And this is from the 1960s, and the ad shows a little lady in the reflection of the can opener opening her can and it says most beautiful can opener made. Its clean, uncluttered beauty tells you Can-O-Mat is a masterpiece of mechanical simplicity. No levers, gadgets, wires or motors, just the easy turn of a single handle opens any can, any size, any shape. Leaves a smooth, safe drinking cup edge. That's why you'll find Can-O-Mat in most kitchens, where quiet, good taste and smooth efficiency are happily wedded. Any wonder its first choice of millions of style conscious homemakers? I struggle with can openers, all of the modern ones. I think they're terrible. I have trouble figuring out how to use them, and half the time they don't even cut properly. So it kind of has me thinking that I should be looking for one of these in the stores when I'm out and about. Bex Scott: [00:06:42] Next up we have the Oster electric meat grinder. It's called the Electric Power Unit. It sits on your countertop and it says versatile and powerful, Oster electric meat grinder slices through foods without tearing, bruising, or mashing. That sounds kind of gross. Speedily and effortlessly grinds all foods from toughest meats to the most delicate vegetables. Even grinds hard almonds. New economies, better meals, and far more pleasure in food preparation are yours every day from the very first day you own the Oster electric meat grinder. I don't know about you guys, but I find a lot of meat grinder parts when I'm shopping or when I've bought a lot at an estate sale or in an auction. They are never complete. I would love to be able to test out one of these meat grinders, but so far I haven't come across one that's a full unit. Bex Scott: [00:07:39] Next up we have the vintage General Electric rotisserie oven. This is really cute, it's a little countertop rotisserie oven and it says five good reasons for owning a General Electric rotisserie oven, in brackets, even if you have a good range oven. Number one is the rotisserie infrared broiler precision oven does so much more than an ordinary rotisserie. Does as many things, in fact, as an expensive range oven, and has range oven accuracy. Number two infrared broiling seals in the natural juices for best ever steaks and seafood. Brown and crusty outside. Delectable inside. Number three bake without heating up the kitchen. Separate baking element on bottom. Thermostatic heat control assure perfect cakes, breads, fancy desserts. Tilt top lid closes completely for baking. Glass window lets you peek in. This is like a fancy Easy-Bake oven. And then there's a picture. It kind of looks like a cat litter box with a lid on the top. Number four it has automatic push button controls. And number five, it's portable. You can cook anywhere with the General Electric rotisserie oven. That's pretty handy. You can take it to your friends houses. You could even cook in the parking lot if you have an outlet. Imagine taking this to a tailgate party. You just pull up your vintage rotisserie oven and put it on your tailgate. I would do that. Bex Scott: [00:09:07] Next up we have a waffle maker and it says makes four big waffles at a time. General Electric Sandwich Grill and Waffle Iron has reversible grids that make delicious pancakes too. Grills sandwiches, bacon, and eggs. This is one that we have a ton of modern equivalents of this, so it looks pretty similar to what we have now. I have a waffle maker, but it's a tiny one, but I can see how this would be awesome. It is massive. Next up is something that I see a lot of in the thrift stores. We have the vintage GE Stainless Steel automatic coffee maker, and this one is from 1961 and it has a cute little Christmas background. But I find that these vintage coffee makers make amazing coffee, and I've had many of them over the years where we've brewed our coffee in them, and it just tastes so much better than drinking from a Keurig or a Nespresso pod. Next, we have the front loading Toast-R-Oven toaster oven. So it's spelled toast with an R in the middle, and it has a pretty funny description. It says, hands the toast to you, no digging. Toasts all breads, any shape, top browns muffins, grilled cheese sandwiches. Bakes too, frozen desserts, meat pies, even meatloaf. And it is essentially just a countertop toaster oven. That's what it is. I always wanted a toaster oven as a kid because I remember my grandparents having one, and the toast comes out so nice in these toaster ovens. This might be a bad episode for me, because now I'm thinking of all the different things that I should be buying and my family will love me for having no kitchen counter space after I go out and hunt for all these pieces. Bex Scott: [00:11:05] Okay, next we have beats, whips, mixes, drinks, sharpens knives too. This is from 1961 and this is the General Electric portable mixer. Though it's only two and three quarter pounds, it's extra thorough with batters, extra gentle with sauces, extra marvelous with meringues. A free drink mixer fixes drinks in a whirl. This is a tongue twister. Remove beaters and plug in an optional accessory that sharpens knives. I've never seen one of these. Easily and safely. See the portable mixer in white, yellow, pink, and turquoise. Oh, those are some good colors. I would pick pink. At your General Electric dealers. It's very interesting actually. So you take off the beaters and then you can use it as the knife sharpener, or you can whip things up if you put the beaters back in. Okay, next we have the Salton Hotray appliance. I have sold so many of these hotrays. I've gifted them to my mother in law. And I have a few still in my basement. These ones are from 1962, and I find them almost every time I go to Value Village. And it's always fun to see which kind, because the top of them is always a different pattern. There's some pretty ones with flowers, there's some with just funky abstract designs. But it says here that it protects your dinner after you've cooked it. It can do this because the temperature of its radiant heat glass panel is thermostatically controlled to a point right under the cooking point. Thus, the food on it neither continues to cook nor to stand around growing cold. This means that those late coming husbands and extra drink guests will no longer pay the price of an overcooked and dried out dinner. And when dinner is finally served, hotray will put an end to your jumping up and down from the table. You just put the entire dinner on hotray, put hotray on the dining table, and serve from there. First will taste like firsts and seconds will taste as good as first. Of course, there's much more to Salton Hotray. Find me on Instagram and let me know, Did you guys use hotrays growing up? Do you still use hotrays? Do you like them? What are your thoughts? Bex Scott: [00:13:19] Next up we have the automatic can opener kitchen gadget from 1961, and I'm pretty sure this is one that my grandparents had, and they mounted it to the underside of their kitchen cabinet. I remember this growing up vividly. It says it removes or hinges the lid quickly, cleanly, with no jagged edges. Magnet holds lid away from food, mounts on wall or optional counter stand. Next, we have a whole variety of vintage toasters from 1963. So we've got the GE Toast-R-Oven. We have the Two Slice that gives you nine shades of toast. We have the Dominion Four Slicer, ideal for big families, toasts 1 to 4 slices at a time, pops them up high, gives perfect results automatically. And it's chrome. We have the GE High Lift. Pops bread extra high, has easy to read control for light, dark or nine shades between. We have your Flip-Door toaster. It has a tray attached. Just flip doors, toast turns automatically, in a walnut trim. And then last we have the Toastmaster Sovereign. Has new controls up front. New concave design. Silent timer assures perfect shade of toast every single time. Bex Scott: [00:14:36] Next up we have kitchen cooking and heating small appliances from 1963. We've got the Hand Mixer. Hangs on wall, has giant beaters and three speeds. The Toastmaster Portable Mixer has three speeds removable, cord. The Salton Gourmet Hotray. We have the Rotisserie Broiler, the 2-Burner Hotplate, the 1-Burner Hotplate, the Sunbeam Electric Frypan. It's completely immersible. Jumbo 12" Electric Skillet is automatic and washable. The Electric Buffet Server gives low heat, holds two quarts, and the Corning 10" Electric Skillet goes under broiler, yet on matching base, it bakes, stews and fries. And they have a little Corning blue cornflower on top of that guy. Bex Scott: [00:15:28] The low silhouette blender. This one my grandparents also had, and it has the super dangerous looking like machete knife little blade in the bottom of it that I always got scared of when I was washing it. It doesn't have anything to say about it. It's pretty self-explanatory. Low, off, or high, that's about it. Vintage Presto coffee pots in white and black. These are really cool looking, they're actually, they look kind of atomic, kind of space age. And it says, does anyone on your street have the white one yet? Pardon us, but we do make a perfectly wonderful coffee maker. It's the one on the left in stainless steel with rich, glossy black trim, fully automatic. It brews a cup a minute of marvelous coffee and keeps it hot. The open spout means easy pouring, easy cleaning too, because it won't trap bitter oils in residues, and you can dunk the entire coffee maker without a worry. Families who live with it every day just love it. Still, we've had a mild but steady clamor, it wasn't a complaint, but a question. People kept asking why not make it white? Most people like the black one, we said. We might not have the volume and weight for mass production, we said. We might have to price it higher and then nobody would buy it. This is all in a magazine ad, just so you guys know. So we made the white one anyway, it's the one on the right. It makes wonderful coffee the same as the black one. It does cost a few pennies more, but now you have a choice. This is a crazy ad. We don't think you'll have trouble finding a black Presto on your street, but if you hurry, you still might be first with the white one. And that might be quite a kick. Wowzas. Bex Scott: [00:17:13] Okay, Salton Bun Warmer, I have this, I've used it, it's amazing. It's so hard to find with the original cloth cover that closes and shuts, but I actually found one and it's great. So if you come across a Salton Bun Warmer, you'd better get it. It says it actually makes ordinary buns taste good, good ones taste great, and great ones taste like heaven on earth. The Salton Electric Bun Warmer won't perform miracles. It won't make our American mass produced buns and rolls taste like the kind grandma supposedly made 50 years ago. But what the Salton Bun Warmer will do is make rolls and buns taste a good deal better. It does this by keeping buns and rolls warm and fresh and crisp. And this ad, this is the exact one that I have. You can get the bun warmer for 9.95 or the French bread warmer for 11.95. Next up we have our Redi-Oven appliance tableside cooker from 1965. New, fast, easy, versatile, large capacity, compact electric oven that holds even a 3 pound roast or an 8 inch pie. Gleaming chrome finish with porcelain enamel interior. Automatic timer and controlled heat up to 500 degrees, perfect for preparing frozen foods, biscuits, baked potatoes right at the table. I want one of these. I've never seen this, but I want it. Double bonus $7.50 value international Silver Party Tray, plus free coupons for these famous frozen foods. Oh, so they were giving away this leaf shaped serving tray with a spoon as well. Bex Scott: [00:18:55] Vintage 1960s Ronson Foodmatic in-counter appliance. Ronson Foodmatic slices, shreds, grinds meat and coffee, juices oranges, crushes ice, it even cooks. That is a versatile piece of equipment. It's very interesting looking as well. It sits on top of your counter. You can put beaters in there for baking. What else does it say? Automatic timer, solid state speed, beater clutch and arm release, speed selector guide. It's quite the 1969 invention. Okay, next up we have vintage small kitchen appliances and decorator colors from 1969. General Electric gives you a festival of color, flame, avocado, and harvest. Appliances include a can opener slash knife sharpener, portable mixers and stand mixers, Dutch skillet, buffet skillet, and a blender. I love these colors. These are awesome. Not so much the avocado, but I could see myself with the harvest yellow one or the flame. The flame is a really nice red. And that is it for our 1960s gadgets and small kitchen appliances. I hope you guys go to the show notes to get a great visual of the items that I talked about, and find me on Instagram at Pyrex with Bex, and let me know if you remember growing up with any of these appliances, what you loved, what you didn't, and if you have any in your kitchen now. Thanks everybody. 

Work should be the most reliable path out of poverty. But for many, low wages, job insecurity, bureaucratic red tape, and the benefits cliff create barriers to financial stability. Social Impact Pioneers Megan Spurgeon and Scott C. Miller are transforming economic empowerment by revolutionising workforce development and breaking systemic cycles of poverty in the U.S Megan Spurgeon is the Director of Empower Upper Cumberland, a collective impact initiative dedicated to creating sustainable workforce and human services solutions in Tennessee. With a strong background in higher education, workforce development, and community action, Megan is a key player in aligning economic, social, and workforce initiatives for lasting change. Scott C. Miller, founder of Circles USA and president of The Poverty Solution, has been a national leader in poverty alleviation for over 40 years. He has helped communities raise over $200 million to support families in achieving long-term economic independence. His groundbreaking Poverty Alleviation System (PAS) - germinated from collaborations with the Walmart Foundation and Keurig — is a comprehensive framework that supports individuals in fully escaping poverty and contributes to reducing poverty rates at scale.is replacing outdated poverty management models with innovative, results-driven solutions. During this podcast conversation Megan and Scott explore: ✔️ The Shift from Poverty Management to True Poverty Alleviation – Why current systems fail and how to implement real change. ✔️ Collaboration for Impact – How businesses, nonprofits, and policymakers must work together for sustainable results. ✔️ Breaking the Cycle of Poverty – The biggest challenges and innovative solutions shaping the future. ✔️ The Role of Employers & Policy in Economic Empowerment – How businesses can support workforce development and retain talent. So whether you are working to address poverty, curious about the programmes supporting workforce development or simply in need of some positivity – Megan and Scott are your people. Links: • Scott Miller - https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottcmillerprofile/ • Megan Spurgeon - www.linkedin.com/in/megankellyspurgeon • The Poverty Solution: https://www.thepovertysolution.com/ • Empower UC - https://empoweruppercumberland.org/ • Annual Report - https://empoweruppercumberland.org/news-and-events/prosperity-press/ • TANF Opportunity Act - https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/tanf-opportunity-act.html • UCHRA - https://uchra.org/

Watch the 9malls review of McDonald's McCafe Keurig K-Cup Baked Apple Pie Coffee. Is this the best tasting pod coffee ever tested on this channel? Watch the hands on coffee taste test to find out. #coffee #mccafe #mcdonalds #tastetestreview Shop 9malls Directly at 9mallsGadgets: https://9mallsgadgets.com/ Find As Seen On TV Products & Gadgets at the 9malls Store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/9malls Please support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/9malls Disclaimer: I may also receive compensation if a visitor clicks through to 9malls, or makes a purchase through Amazon or any affiliate link. I test each product on site thoroughly and give high marks to only the best. We are independently owned and the opinions expressed here are our own.

Cleaning the Keurig 02/24/25

Welcome back to this exciting episode of New Cyber Frontier! In this episode, we join our founders for the special treat of a live presentation on how BlockFrame containerizes cybersecurity.  This new concept is lined up to revolutionize digital security and privacy by giving every individual a level playing field with the big players. It's simplistic, it's uniform and it's the next thing. With a goal of enabling  individual rights, and empowering ethical behavior in a digital world, BlockFrame, is taking the industry by storm. Dr. Gorog explains, "We turn Cybersecurity from what is usually a large-scale operation that only big companies have the ability to afford, to something that a single user can containerize like the individualized coffee pod from Keurig that Revolutionized the coffee industry. It's simple and provides the individualized experience that everyone wants." Look for big things from BlockFrame Inc.

In this episode of The Ambitious Introvert® Podcast, I reconnect with my amazing former client Nicole Kepic, almost three years after we worked together. Nicole is a talented copywriter with over 20 years of experience writing for major brands like Kellogg's, Walmart, and Keurig. Today, she helps female coaches and creatives attract their ideal clients and sell out their offers with fun, feel-good sales copy.  But that's not all - Nicole is also the author of the newly released book Don't Ask Me to Be Loud: The Introverted Girl's Guide to Online Business. This relatable and practical guide shows introverts how they can build thriving, joyful businesses without being loud or bold. I'm thrilled to share this conversation because her book was a project we coached around back in 2022, and I couldn't be prouder to see it out in the world. Nicole is opening up and sharing the behind the scenes of how it really feels to go from ‘idea' to ‘published author'.What You'll Learn:  

Are you an introvert struggling to find your voice in a noisy world? In this episode of The Quiet And Strong Podcast, host David Hall is joined by Nicole Kepic, an accomplished copywriter and author. Nicole shares her personal journey of embracing her introversion and leveraging it as a strength in to stand out in a crowded online space.Discover the intriguing story of how Nicole transitioned from her busy corporate life to running a successful freelance business, all while embracing her introverted qualities. Hear about her initial struggles with the perception that introverts can't succeed in highly social environments and how she overcame this misconception through a powerful conversation that changed her perspective.Whether you're an introverted entrepreneur or just someone looking to understand the unique strengths of introverts, this episode offers actionable insights, relatable stories, and practical advice. Nicole's journey is inspiring, and her strategies for success are highly applicable to anyone looking to make their mark while staying true to who they are.Embrace your introverted strengths, learn strategies for success, and be strong!Episode Link: QuietandStrong.com/207- - -Nicole Kepic is a sales page copywriter with over 20 years of copywriting experience, previously writing for big brands like Kellogg's, Walmart, Frito Lay, and Keurig. Today, she helps online coaches and creatives stand out from the crowd, attract their ideal clients, and sell out their signature offers with fun, feel-good sales copy.  Nicole is also the author of “Don't Ask Me to Be Loud: The Introverted Girl's Guide to Online Business.” In this fun, relatable book, she shows you how you DON'T need to be the loudest or boldest person on the internet to run a thriving, joyful, and in-demand business. When she's not on her laptop, Nicole is usually spending time with her family or staying up way past her bedtime to devour a suspense novel. You can learn more about her at nicolekepic.com or hang out with her on social media (where you WON'T see her dancing).Socials: Facebook | Instagram | - - -Contact the Host of the Quiet and Strong Podcast:David Hall Author, Speaker, Educator, Podcaster quietandstrong.comGobio.link/quietandstrongdavid [at] quietandstrong.com Take the FREE Personality Assessment: Typefinder Personality Assessment Follow David on your favorite social platform: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Youtube Get David's book:Minding Your Time: Time Management, Productivity, and Success, Especially for Introverts You may also like:Quiet & Strong Merchandise

Matt puts Producer Josh on "Fraud Watch", takes pride in his new Keurig, Matt then proceeds to put Connor on "Fraud Watch" as well, we play a game of "What Did Matt Say?", Connor eulogizes Bob Uecker, another update on the large purchases Matt McMaster has been forced to make, old school Tube TVs, bubble hockey, and more.

In this episode, we dive deep into the transformative journey of Best Western Hotels (BWH) with the incredible Amy Hulbert, Vice President of Boutique and Upscale Brands for Best Western Hotels. Discover how this iconic hospitality brand has split into three distinct brands to lead the charge in reshaping the industry and how sustainability lies at the heart of their mission.We'll explore why Europe is leading the way in sustainability certification and discuss how the U.S. hospitality market can catch up. Learn how a strong focus on sustainability not only enhances a hotel's environmental impact but also increases guest retention and satisfaction—proving that happy teams and sustainable operations drive business success.Amy shares her expertise on the design evolution of Best Western's boutique and upscale brands. Alongside that, we discuss the role of Green Key Global certification in pushing sustainability forward, including actionable steps hotels can take—like moving beyond small details such as Keurig cups to implementing large-scale changes in food, beverages, and operations.Finally, we look to the future, as BWH aims to certify all of its properties by 2026, setting a standard for affordable, sustainable innovation across the industry. Whether you're a hotelier, a sustainability advocate, or just someone curious about the future of hospitality, this conversation is packed with insights you won't want to miss!Tune in to hear how Best Western is becoming a community leader, a pioneer in sustainability, and a trendsetter in design—all while preparing the hospitality industry for what lies ahead.Key Takeaways:Best Western Hotels - How the brand split into 3 brands to try and push the hospitality industry forward.The Sustainability Certification - Europe is leading in sustainability, so why isn't the USA following? How can a sustainability certification push a hotel forward?The Local Connection - Best Western encourages their hotels to be pillars in their local communities.Retention and Satisfaction - People seek out sustainable places to stay, and sustainable hotels that keep their staff happy and satisfied tend to see an increase in patrons.Green Key Global and Synergy - By hotels, for hotels. BWH is trying to find people aligned with their goals and the industry by getting ahead of the market.Going Green - The steps to becoming Green Key certified. From small Keurig cups to meals. The Future - All BW Hotels will be certified by 2026. Food and beverages are seeing massive sustainable overhauls, and teams are being contacted directly to find affordable solutions.

This week we talk about the reasons and impacts of the world's largest dam. Consumption: Mr. Pold - Dune Messiah, Dune, Dune: Part 2, Moneyball, The Cryptid Factor St. Jimmy - The Fall Guy, Night Swim, Misery D'Viddy - Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls, A.P. Bio,Secret Level, NFL Football, Fast & Furious, Fast Five, Fast & Furious 6, Bryson DeChambeau Master Z - Evil season 3, Carry-On, Woman of the Hour, Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity Music Provided By: Greg Gibbs / Most Guitars Are Made of Trees ARMS / Glass Harmonica Plastic Flowers / Now She's Gone

Luke and Andrew each celebrate an anniversary today, which sends them down a memory lane that is perfect for losing any new listeners who may be checking out the show after hearing Luke's story on This American Life this weekend. They also talk about old salad bars, cold restaurants, French-speaking hummingbirds, and personal thermostat preferences.

Behind every successful startup is a story of passion, perseverance, and a whole lot of heart. Today, we're diving deep into the inspiring journey of Cambio Roasters, a company born from a desire to make a positive impact on the world. Join us as we hear from the brand about their leap of faith in leaving their corporate careers to pursue their dream. We'll explore how they overcame challenges, from navigating the complexities of the coffee industry to developing innovative, eco-friendly solutions like the world's first and only aluminum K-Cup®. Discover the driving force behind Cambio Roasters: a commitment to sustainability, ethical sourcing, and giving back to the communities they serve. This is a story of entrepreneurship, innovation, and making a difference, one delicious cup of coffee at a time. Web: https://cambioroasters.com About the show: Ash Brown is a force to be reckoned with in the world of motivation and empowerment. This multi-talented American is a gifted producer, blogger, speaker, media personality, and event emcee. Her infectious energy and passion for helping others shine through in everything she does. Ash Said It, Ash Does It: * AshSaidit.com: This vibrant blog is your one-stop shop for a peek into Ash's world. Dive into exclusive event invites, insightful product reviews, and a whole lot more. It's a platform that keeps you informed and entertained. * The Ash Said It Show: Buckle up for a motivational ride with Ash's signature podcast. With over 2,000 episodesalready under her belt and a staggering half a million streams worldwide, this show is a testament to Ash's impact. Here, she chats with inspiring individuals and tackles topics that resonate deeply. What Makes Ash Special? Ash doesn't just preach motivation; she lives it. Her strength lies in her authenticity. She connects with her audience on a genuine level, offering real-talk advice and encouragement. She doesn't shy away from the challenges life throws our way, but instead, equips you with the tools to overcome them. Here's what sets Ash apart: * Unwavering Positivity: Ash Brown is a glass-half-full kind of person. Her infectious optimism is contagious, leaving you feeling empowered and ready to take on the world. * Real & Relatable: Ash doesn't sugarcoat things. She understands the struggles we face and offers relatable advice that resonates with listeners from all walks of life. * Actionable Strategies: This isn't just about empty inspirational quotes. Ash provides practical tips and strategies to help you translate motivation into action, turning your dreams into reality. So, if you're looking for a daily dose of inspiration, actionable advice, and a healthy dose of real talk, look no further than Ash Brown. With her infectious positivity and dedication to empowering others, she's sure to become your go-to source for making the most of life. ► Goli Gummy Discounts Link: https://go.goli.com/1loveash5 ► Luxury Women Handbag Discounts: https://www.theofficialathena.... ► Review Us: https://itunes.apple.com/us/po... ► Subscribe: http://www.youtube.com/c/AshSa... ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1lov... ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashsa... ► Blog: http://www.ashsaidit.com/blog #atlanta #ashsaidit #theashsaiditshow #ashblogsit #ashsaidit®Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-ash-said-it-show--1213325/support.

We are at our Santa Stop at Junk Bonanza! A keurig for cocktails, fancy coffee makers, and a partridge in a pear tree... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We are at our Santa Stop at Junk Bonanza! A keurig for cocktails, fancy coffee makers, and a partridge in a pear tree... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode, I'm joined by Dom from The Sissy Boys to chat about his coffee taste, cleaning your Keurig, moshing, growing up punk, playing Tied Down, and We Want To Fight EP. During the episode I was drinking Sol De La Mañana from EVEN. Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/evencoffeemtl/ https://delayedgratificationrecords.bandcamp.com/album/we-want-to-fight https://www.beansandbreakdowns.com/

In this episode of the Living to 100 Club podcast, Dr. Joe Casciani speaks with Jim Cosco, owner of Tipping Point Labs, about his inspiring work in capturing legacies through video and his company, Legacy Videos. Jim shares his passion for preserving personal stories through video production, motivated by his own experience of missing the opportunity to capture his father's life story before he passed away. Together, Joe and Jim explore the power of video to document memories and how these personal narratives can provide lasting comfort and connection for loved ones. Jim discusses his unique approach to creating documentary-style interviews, offering a range of options, from short "interviews of a lifetime" to comprehensive multi-hour legacy recordings. They also delve into the potential future of AI technology in memorializing individuals, touching on the emotional complexities of virtual interactions with deceased loved ones. Finally, Jim shares his long-term business goals and how he envisions the next phase for his company, Tipping Point Labs. Join us as we explore the art of storytelling, the importance of preserving legacies, and the evolving role of technology in keeping memories alive. Mini Bio With almost three decades of experience in the media industry, Jim is the founder and executive producer of Tippingpoint Labs, a video strategy and production company that specializes in telling brand stories. Corporate clients have included Five Star Senior Living, Philips Lifeline, Harvard University, Keurig, and John Hancock. Over the years, he has also filmed content for MTV, Fox News, Nightline, and The Today Show as well as worked with notables like Leeza Gibbons, Geraldo Rivera, Tim Russert, Aerosmith, and celebrity chef Curtis Stone. Jim is also the founder of Legacy Video Stories, a company he was inspired to create after his father passed away so he could help families preserve their stories for future generations. For Our Listeners Jim's Website: Legacy Video Stories      

On this week's Modern Retail Rundown, the staff breaks down the struggling sales of coffee giants Starbucks and Keurig. Next, Etsy posts early positive signs of holiday sales. Finally, sandwich chain Subway is facing legal action over the alleged false advertising of its sandwich, which some customers say contains much less meat in reality.

Episode 439: Neal and Toby dive into why election anxiety might be causing a reluctance for the American consumer and how it's hurting businesses. Then, Keurig just bought a majority stake in Ghost energy drink for over $1B, which signals the growing category for caffeinated drinks. Next, Gold reaches another all-time high – will it ever slow down? Also, Philip Morris is the week's Stock of the Week, while Polymarket is the Dog of the Week. Lastly, Tesla's big day, Yum Brands pulls back on onions, a sprinter dies at 108, World Series' tickets, and Tapestry blocked.  Subscribe to Morning Brew Daily for more of the news you need to start your day. Share the show with a friend, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast app. Find your fit at bonobos.com and use code BREW20 for 20% off.  Get your Morning Brew Daily T-Shirt HERE: https://shop.morningbrew.com/products/morning-brew-radio-t-shirt?_pos=1&_sid=6b0bc409d&_ss=r&variant=45353879044316  Listen to Morning Brew Daily Here: https://link.chtbl.com/MBD Watch Morning Brew Daily Here: https://www.youtube.com/@MorningBrewDailyShow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At the KCBI station, we had a bit of a morning crisis: our office coffee maker kicked the bucket. They promised to fix it "as soon as possible," but for coffee lovers like us, that's not fast enough. So, I dug out our old Keurig, cleaned and descaled it for hours, and proudly set it up at work. Imagine my surprise when the first coworker to walk in had brought their own coffee maker too! It's official: we're a team that can't start without our coffee! 

In this episode, we have a large news slate: Tesla is betting on the growth of cheaper cars, Keurig is betting $1B on energy drinks, and home sales are stalling amid rate doubts. QOFTW: Rapid Fire https://www.instagram.com/delano.saporu/?hl=en. Connect with me here also: https://newstreetadvisorsgroup.com/social/. Want to support the show? Feel free to do so here! https://anchor.fm/delano-saporu4/support. Thank you for listening. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/delano-saporu4/support

On this episode of Lochhead on Marketing, Category Pirates Christopher Lochhead and Eddie Yoon talk about the power of simplifying business strategies into a One-Sentence Strategy. They discuss how successful companies, from large enterprises to solopreneurs, leverage concise strategies to drive focus and alignment. Highlighting examples like Gillette's "revenue per user per year" and Microsoft's "a computer on every desktop," they emphasize the importance of clarity and customer-centric approaches. The episode underscores that while crafting a one-sentence strategy is challenging, it is essential for achieving cohesive company culture and long-term success. Welcome to Lochhead on Marketing. The number one charting marketing podcast for marketers, category designers, and entrepreneurs with a different mind. The Power of Having One Clear Strategy Eddie Yoon emphasizes that the most successful businesses, regardless of their size, often operate under a singular, clear metric or strategy. This simplicity allows for better focus and alignment across the organization. He cites the example of Gillette, which used "revenue per user per year" (RUPI) and "profit per user per year" (PUPI) as their guiding metrics. This approach not only streamlined their decision-making but also ensured that all team members understood their primary objectives. Christopher & Eddie then give examples of several legendary companies that have thrived due to their clear, concise strategies. For instance, Microsoft's one-sentence strategy was "a computer on every desktop," which guided their product development and marketing efforts for decades. Similarly, YETI, known for its premium ice coolers, positioned itself with the straightforward strategy of offering a "premium ice cooler," differentiating itself from traditional, lower-cost options. The Importance of Customer Focus They also point out how these companies maintain a customer-centric approach. For example, the Keurig coffee system was built around the idea of convenience and choice, with the metric of "K-cups per brewer per day" driving their business decisions. This focus on customer experience and satisfaction is crucial for long-term success. Christopher explains that while these strategies are simple to understand, executing them effectively is often challenging. He notes that when a company has a clear strategy, it becomes easier to align employees, investors, and customers towards a common goal. This alignment is essential for fostering a cohesive company culture and driving growth. The Challenge of Crafting a One-Sentence Strategy Creating a one-sentence strategy is not a straightforward task. It requires deep reflection and a thorough understanding of the business's core mission and values. Christopher & Eddie discuss how many organizations settle for vague or overly complex strategies, which can lead to confusion and misalignment. They advocate for a rigorous process of distillation, where businesses must sift through their ideas and focus on what truly matters. One of the standout examples is the Ritz-Carlton's guiding principle: "Ladies and gentlemen serving ladies and gentlemen." This simple yet profound statement encapsulates their commitment to exceptional service and sets a high standard for their employees. It illustrates how a well-crafted strategy can inspire and elevate a brand's identity. To hear more From Christopher & Eddie about the One-Sentence Strategy, download and listen to this episode. Want to hear more Pirate Jams? Head on over to Category Pirates and enjoy more conversations between Category Pirates Christopher & Eddie! Don't forget to grab a copy (or gift!) of one of our best-selling books:  Snow Leopard: How Legendary Writers Create A Category Of One  The Category Design Toolkit: Beyond Marketing: 15 Frameworks For Creating & Dominating Your Niche  A Marketer's Guide To Category Design: How To Escape The “Better” Trap, Dam The Demand,

915: Consumer insights are the lifeblood of any company, enabling them to optimize product availability, personalize marketing, and enhance customer experiences through direct-to-consumer channels and loyalty programs. In this episode of Technovation, Peter High interviews John Gigerich, Chief Information Officer of Keurig Dr Pepper. John shares insights into the 2018 merger between Keurig and Dr Pepper, which created a beverage powerhouse, and discusses his role in integrating the companies' IT systems while ensuring cybersecurity. He elaborates on Keurig Dr Pepper's digital transformation journey, covering cloud migration, intelligent automation tools like RPA and AI, and the company's data-driven approach to consumer insights that optimize product offerings and marketing strategies. John also provides a fascinating look into the company's supply chain optimization initiatives and the role of the digital value chain. Finally, he highlights the importance of ROI in IT investments and shares his excitement for AI and data-driven innovation at KDP.

915: Consumer insights are the lifeblood of any company, enabling them to optimize product availability, personalize marketing, and enhance customer experiences through direct-to-consumer channels and loyalty programs. In this episode of Technovation, Peter High interviews John Gigerich, Chief Information Officer of Keurig Dr Pepper. John shares insights into the 2018 merger between Keurig and Dr Pepper, which created a beverage powerhouse, and discusses his role in integrating the companies' IT systems while ensuring cybersecurity. He elaborates on Keurig Dr Pepper's digital transformation journey, covering cloud migration, intelligent automation tools like RPA and AI, and the company's data-driven approach to consumer insights that optimize product offerings and marketing strategies. John also provides a fascinating look into the company's supply chain optimization initiatives and the role of the digital value chain. Finally, he highlights the importance of ROI in IT investments and shares his excitement for AI and data-driven innovation at KDP.

On Today's Show: FORGIVE & FORGET: My sisters mad I wont support her 'pyramid scheme' FRIDAY CRYDAY: Did Jess cry over her Keurig?? FLOCK LINE: Hey Commanders? Can you hear us??

Episode 195:“Dad Swears &Hardware Showdowns: The Ultimate Dad Debate”In this jam-packed episode of Top Dad, we tackle some of the biggest debates in dad life:•A Dad's Guide to Swearing: When is it okay to swear around the kids, and how do we teach them about it? When is it ok to let your kids swear???!•Meijer Review: The lesser-known step-cousin of Target and Walmart—where does it rank in your dad shopping routine?•Lowe's vs. Home Depot: The hardware store war that never ends. Is your loyalty based on quality or convenience?•Keurig vs. Nespresso: Fancy dad vs. blue-collar dad in the ultimate coffee battle. Which one fuels your day?Tune in for laughs, practical dad advice, and some serious (but fun) dad debates!Thanks for listening to the Top Dad Podcast! Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes, leave a review, and share our podcast with other awesome dads or shitty dads (seriously they probably need us the most).... ☑️ Got a question or a topic you want us to cover? Email us at topdadpodcast@gmail.com or follow us on social media for updates and wonderfully crafted dad jokes by going to TopDadpod.com "Stay awesome, dads—because nobody rocks the dad bod on the #1 dad pod like the Top Dads

The guys are crickets this week and they cant stop chirping about cheetos, charli and a keurig Spotify Wrapped, Keurig machines and Cave Cheeto Game Rate Us ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ on Apple Podcasts! Connect With The Show:  Follow Us On Instagram  Follow Us On Twitter  Follow Us On TikTok  Visit Us On The Web    

EP320 - News, First Half Recap, Early Holiday Preview http://jasonandscot.com 0:23 Welcome Back After Hiatus 2:51 Upcoming Events in Retail 7:28 GroceryShop 16:02 Retail Growth Trends 21:28 Concerns for Holiday 2024 30:27 The De Minimis Provision 40:27 TikTok's Impact on E-commerce In this episode of The Jason and Scot Show, we discuss the current state of retail and e-commerce. We analyze macroeconomic factors impacting the retail landscape, noting a 3.4% growth in core retail and a maturation of e-commerce, dominated by giants like Amazon and Walmart. We address consumer sentiment heading into the holiday season and the potential influences of the upcoming election and interest rate changes. The episode also covers the role of AI in enhancing personalization experiences, challenges faced by dollar stores, and supply chain issues. We conclude with insights into Amazon's recent earnings and their strategies to engage younger consumers through TikTok Shops. Join your hosts Jason "Retailgeek" Goldberg, Chief Commerce Strategy Officer at Publicis, and Scot Wingo, CEO of GetSpiffy and Co-Founder of ChannelAdvisor as they discuss the latest news and trends in the world of e-commerce and digital shopper marketing. Download the complete 54 page deck of all my insights from the US Dept of Commerce Retail Data for the first half of 2024 here https://rgeek.co/retail2024 Transcript [0:23] Welcome Back After Hiatus Jason   [0:23]Welcome to the Json and Scott show this is episode 320 being recorded on Monday september 16th 2024 I'm your host Jason retail gee Goldberg and as usual I'm here with your co-host Scott Wingo. Scot   [0:38]Hey Jason and welcome back after a very long time, Jason and Scott show listeners Jason our last show was an early May so it's been about a little over a 4-month hiatus and when people ask me I always blame you do you blame me. Jason   [0:57]I do blame you and I'm bitter because in my mind. Nobody's really complaining to you but like I I've gone called out on stage by like I've I've been heckled by people that are like what are you going to do a new show. Scot   [1:15]It's part of our it's it's a Nintendo like strategy where you you dribble you know if you could really constrain Supply scarcity that drives demand so yeah. Jason   [1:25]Yeah it it we are we are playing 3 dimensional chess in a world of checkered players. Scot   [1:31]Exactly the the real reason is as Chief digital Innovation retail and payments and grocery officer your title's gotten bigger and your your more famous your allies on a plane I can never record because I'm like how about now he's like Paris how about now Australia how about now India so you've been flying all over the world. Jason   [1:52]I sadly I have been it does feel like travel is back there there have been more International trips this year than any year before coid so I I can I can only partially deny that accusation. Scot   [2:08]Cool well we're glad that we have you here for for an hour give us an update what are you any uh show you know what's going on out in the world of retail as you've been expanding the globe for the Json and Scott show. Jason   [2:20]Yeah it's been another Super interesting year for retail we'll we'll certainly get into some of what we think are the key topics that have been planned out this year but I have attended a bunch of events I I can't even remember which ones where since this this last show visited a bunch of customers out in the field which is always great learning new things from them [2:51] Upcoming Events in Retail Jason   [2:40]but the upcoming show is in early October is grocery shopping in Las Vegas so I'll be moderating a panel on. AI enabling Next Generation personalization, at at that show which I always look forward to to grocery shop and then a week later they're they're shop talk is moving their show their other stuff to Chicago so they're going to have their first, fall shop talk that will be in my backyard in Chicago so I'll be curious to see how if the world wants another another iteration of shop talk every year. Scot   [3:18]Yeah give us the behind-the-scenes did you like throw down the gauntlet and said shop talk must move to Chicago or I'm not going to attend or and run all the speaking stuff. Jason   [3:28]I basically did that with everything I told every client that they had come to Chicago I told shop talk and I told you you had to come here to record the podcast and yeah you'll note we haven't had a lot of podcasts and you know I still have the same 3 customers here I've always had. Scot   [3:44]But you got to show them to me for at least that's a 1 w. Jason   [3:46]I did but they really just added a show they're just looking for more Revenue so like it seems like it's probably not. Not just me but I feel like your LinkedIn feed has been more active than me and mostly with accolades for for the the fund that you helped kick off. Scot   [4:05]Yeah yeah so the just to update everybody I'm in a post spiffy world so started spiffy in 2014 and then, you know decided to to we got to kind of north of a 60-ish million run rate which is plenty big lots of employees lots of things going on and I had started this little side hustle well first of all I started this thing for our little local ecosystem here called the tweener list in 2015 which was just a little passion project and then started a little fund around that called the tweener fund which invests in early stage startups so I've I've really enjoyed that and decided to, move on from spiffy and make this my full-time gig so have been really enjoying doing that and actually have. I'm sure you do this where you have a list of things you're kind of like want to learn about and you can hardly ever get to it and I've been doing a lot of that the last 4 weeks and 1 of the big 1 is AI I've been going really deep on AI and it's been been a lot of fun to play around with all the cool new stuff going on there and I got a couple interesting ideas I'm not going to reveal anything but there's some interesting if you think from a AI native remember how we used to talk about mobile native well now thinking AI native I think there's some interesting things that could happen in the world of e-commerce so I'm going to I may go back to thinking more about e-commerce so we'll see. Jason   [5:23]Come on back though we're we're waiting for you the water is fine man they're they're for your point there's a lot of super interesting stuff the grocery shop will be fun a a show after that that I'm looking forward to is NRF because you know they have this Innovation Pavilion and they've kind of upped the the, rigger around recruiting exhibitors at The Innovation Pavilion this year and I think it's going to it's a big year for Innovation so, probably be a cool time for all of us to meet in the New York in January with global warming it's not even cold anymore. Scot   [5:58]Not been there not too long ago and it's still pretty darn cold for this North Carolina. Jason   [6:04]Oh okay fair enough fair enough I'm just last year was the first time it snowed in like 2 years in New York at at in her uh and then. Scot   [6:10]Okay yeah yeah last time I remember trudging through like 6 inches to get to your hotel which was painfully far away. Jason   [6:17]I mean that's yeah that's been my normal life so it's been weird that you haven't had to take the heavy coat to New York so although I wouldn't recommend that if you go to New York in January I'd bring that vote uh. And, I feel like in addition to everything else I know we're going to jump into the retail but all the Apple software updates dropped today so cool new icons and emojis and and delayed chats so I can have, like Emoji based chats hit Scott Wingo at every hour of the day now it's amazing. Scot   [6:48]Nice I look forward to that at 4:00 a.m. I'll have my do not disturb on to counteract your your attack. Jason   [6:53]Yeah although I may need you talk about new things you want to learn 1 of the things I want to learn is how to make Do Not Disturb work right in the the modern app like the system because I feel like all the focus modes have made it complicated. Scot   [7:05]Yeah I have to have you know that that kind of funny YouTube where the dad puts on 6 seat belts that's me putting on do not disturb I have to do the physical thing check the moon do my watch hit D and D in a profile and then that's that that combination of things I don't know which of them does it but that seems to stop everything. [7:28] AI in Grocery Shopping Jason   [7:23]Yes I feel like I'm in a similar boat but it would be interesting to figure out how to do it for as intended. Scot   [7:29]Yeah or just we know it works so just keep doing it do so just give us a preview of grocery shop can AI do better recommendations than kind of the old school way we used to do it. Jason   [7:42]So 1 would hope certainly it can do it at greater scale than we used to do it there's some anecdotal evidence that it's. Better it you know part of it I'm I'm curious to talk to some of these folks So So Meta will be on my panel. They they have a strong POV you know what's going on in the digital ad space right now is all the the ad platforms are trying to talk you into going hands off the wheel and turning over. The bidding to their AI engines and I would say at the moment it's an uneven playing field there like if I if I talk to my. Performance media folks they'll tell you that the the AI robots from some of the platforms are very effective and tend to outperform a manual bidding and on other platforms that they they wildly do not so. Jason   [8:33]That it'll be interesting to kind of hear their perspective 1 of the panelists is hungryroot, which to me is a super interesting example they they're truly doing AI based recommendation so they're essentially they're a ger. That is mainly filling out your whole cart for you proactively with AI based. Recommendations so you manicure a Char a cart that they recommend to you versus you hunting and pecking for each individual item and putting it in your cart and they they have some pretty interesting sales metrics using that methodology so they're all in, there you might almost think of them as like the Stitch fix of food and so they'll they'll be interesting to hear, and then my friend Ben from Endeavor and Endeavor may be familiar to some listeners not to others they're the largest adult beverage and hospitality company in Australia. And so they they have a nationwide chain of beer and wine stores that are doing some really interesting personalization hubs and kind of Shifting all of their customer touch points to to 1 to 1 so. I'll be curious to hear how effective they all claim to be. Scot   [9:47]How do these it seems like you're going to need some training data like how do they Kickstart that do they look at like your email or credit card data to kind of get an idea for what you like or they just kind of start you at a demographic Baseline and build from there or do you know. Jason   [10:01]Yeah well so in many cases you've been a customer of theirs for a long time right so they have you you have a significant amount of personal data I mean Walmart launched a predictive cart feature, in January that's in beta so I think it's only available to a select group of. Of Walmart Plus members but yeah it you it's trained on all of th those members pass purchases leading up to the launch of that product. Um so I yeah good question what signals do they use for a net new customer but I think the first crop where customers where they they already had a significant history. Scot   [10:40]Got it cool well that's gonna be a good panel riveting it's also pretty wild they have them so close together now that's like 10 days you're gonna have to kind of like Zip back home rest for a couple days and jump in. Jason   [10:50]I I do I was going to zip back home anyway so it's not an inconvenience for me but I my heart does go out to all the the shop talk folks that that have responsibilities of both shows because that I'm certain is not fun for them. Scot   [11:02]Cool which of the shop talks is bigger now the. Jason   [11:09]Shop talk is still the biggest show that's their March show um and it's it's north of 10,000 people so it might have been like 11,000 this year I'm not sure they, release an official number so hopefully I'm not disclosing something proprietary and grocery shop is only about half that size. So think closer to 5 500 attendees and then this fall shop talk this will be the first time so so. All all bets are off I I certainly wish them no ill will but part of me thinks it's a it's a big lift to get people. To add yet another event to their schedules. Scot   [11:48]Yeah maybe the Fallen will be more Regional like you know folks in the midwest or east. Jason   [11:53]Yeah I mean that that would be my initial assumption but you know they've they've been able to build up some really good shows in the past so so you know we'll see how they do with this 1 I certainly, would like to see a good show in Chicago they're in as you would remember in the old days you know there was like internet retailer here which still exists but I would argue it's it's probably well past its prime. Problem is when you did the orientation and used to teach everyone how to do e-commerce on the first day. Scot   [12:20]Amazon yeah that was fun that was they were like well you do this and I was like well how many people come and they're like I usually 100 and I did it and there's like 700 people say dude you vastly underestimated your crowd size at this thing the um. Jason   [12:32]I know I know you're a big draw. Scot   [12:34]Yeah well of course the uh and what was always funny is people would want to meet I forget what hotel it was either Hyatt, or a Hilton and there was 4 of them around that convention center and like No 1 could ever find each other at that that Hotel chain because they know 1 realized they all had the same name I'm sure that's still a problem. Was always funny to watch the chaos ensue. Jason   [12:54]Yeah. Scot   [12:55]The only thing works is in Las Vegas when you're at the Mandalay Bay when the hotel is called the hotel and the bars called the bar it's like a whose first kind of scenario trying to get. Jason   [13:04]Yeah I'm sure they thought that was really clever when they. Scot   [13:07]Yeah that was the worst worst naming. Jason   [13:08]When they first named it yeah. Scot   [13:11]Cool well you guys have been waiting for it and we are recording this mid-september all of our friends and Retail and e-commerce are making their final changes to their sites they're implementing their new features they're putting new vendors in place and going through the final QA test, before the big October code freeze so. This is when the Pod turns to really thinking about a holiday of 24 it's a fun to believe that we're already here this fast and Jason to tee that up let's set the table a little bit you put out a really interesting kind of adjacent Mega deck on LinkedIn that was really good and I thought maybe we could go through a couple slides of that and kind of tee up, you know how the year has gone so far and then that'll take us into kind of a little bit of a prediction of how holiday 24 is going to shape up. Jason   [13:58]Yeah yeah yeah happy to do it thanks man so maybe setting the table. I don't want to go back and get too deep we'll put a link to the deck so anyone that wants it's like 54 pages of data visualizations about about the Commerce industry so anyone's welcome to download it and check for themselves but the the highest level metric that I like to think about is this thing that NRF calls core retail so that's, all of retail sales from the US Department of Commerce US Census Data uh except restaurants Gas and Automobiles and. Jason   [14:33]If you go back in time and you say how how much does core retail grow year-over-year for the last 20 years core retail grew about 3.9% a year. And then of course we had this this huge anomaly more recently which was Co. And you know I like to joke that like well you know some people feel like oh man those were really hard years for retail what they forget is we mailed 5 trillion dollars in extra cash to everyone and didn't let them spend any of that on flights or Taylor Swift tickets. And so those were actually the greatest growth years in the history of retail like we like the the peak year was like 14% growth for core retail. So we had that this like Giant mountain of unusual growth 3 years that were twice as big as the normal 3.9% growth, and then 2023 happened and 2023 was right back to the average 3.9% again, and so now we're halfway through 2024 and we're actually below that average a little bit so we're at 3.4% growth year to date. Which is you know meaningfully off from 3.9% like that you know these are these are big numbers so that's 2.9 trillion dollars worth of sales year to date. Jason   [15:50]And the you know. [16:02] Retail Growth Trends Jason   [15:53]When we look at holiday I I mean we'll we'll talk about it in a minute but you know that's kind of setting the the table for retail for holiday but of course. People on this podcast are probably particularly interested in e-commerce and will know that historically at least in the modern era e-commerce has grown much faster. So the problem with talking about the average growth rate of e-commerce is of course it only started about 24 years ago and so it's. You know the the rate of growth has has decreased over time if you look at the last 24 years e-commerce is growing 17% a year versus that 3.9% for retail. Over the last 10 years right before coid e-commerce was growing at 12.4% a year. Jason   [16:37]So I kind of tell people think about you know e-commerce typically growing at 12% a year retail typically growing at 4% a year is kind of the. The the basic ratios so 4 times faster but this year 2024, retail is only growing at 3.4% and e-commerce is only growing at 7.5% so still twice as fast growth but a meaningful slowdown from the, historic average and you know at the risk of of giving away a spoiler. I I don't think that's like some bounce because of a spike during Co I actually think it's just an indication of the maturing of. Of e-commerce and e-commerce is a you know increasingly big chunk of of the whole retail pie it's. E-commerce is 21.8% of core retail so almost 22% so you know we'll spend over 7 trillion dollars this year and you know well over a trillion of it will be e-commerce. Scot   [17:38]Interesting cool so that's the full year. Jason   [17:41]Yeah well. Scot   [17:43]Basically kind of an average year. Jason   [17:45]So so last, yeah so so well so last year e-commerce had already started slow down it it grew again the average was about 12% it grew 10% last year and we're only growing 7.5% year to date this year. Scot   [17:59]Okay got it okay. Jason   [18:01]But. As I keep pointing out to people the story depending on who you are the story is either vastly better or worse than that those industry averages I just shared because the real story of of retail in 2024 is. This this concept of bifurcation right that there are 5 retailers that are vastly outperforming those industry averages. And they are eating up all of the growth in the industry so these 5 retailers represent 51% of all that growth so if you're 1 of those 5 retailers, you're having a great year if you are not 1 of those 5 retailers you're having a way worse than average year in in most cases so that's, Amazon which alone represents 16% of all retail growth it's Walmart which represents 15% of all retail growth, and it's it's Tik Tok which, you know was well under a billion dollars in sales last year and is trending towards twenty billion dollars in sales this year so they're the fastest growing retail, in the history of mankind and then rounding out these top 5 Growers are the the fastest growing return history of mankind from the last 2 years T-Mobile and shien so, it's kind of T-Mobile Sheen Tik Tok Walmart and Amazon's world and the rest of us are just living in it which is you know somewhat alarming for the rest of retail. Scot   [19:26]Yeah yeah definitely is it seems like those the chinese-based guys seems like they're taking share from somebody but it's not Amazon is it dollar stores because it's kind of like this convenience-oriented lower price kind of stuff right. Jason   [19:42]Yeah so it it it it's it's inexpensive variety Goods the, it it very likely is taking share from from the the dollar stores the dollar stores have not fared well which historically, you know there's there's some economic headwinds there's a thing going on in the United States that I I like to call A vibe session which means, some of the the economic fundamentals are actually pretty decent but people are really, consumer sentiment is down and people are really cutting back on their spending there's a lot of evidence that people are trading down and and trying to be more frugal, and that kind of climate normally has favored the dollar stores and yet you know they're they're definitely performing below these, these industry averages so certainly a chunk of of the Tik Tok team mushy and growth um is coming at their expense. Some of the sheen growth is coming at the expense of luxury which you know historically luxury has been been insulated from downturns in the market but you know we're starting to see. Some softness in their earnings and for sure softness in their guidance. So you know the you know people that would have bought more designer stuff maybe they're still buying some designer things but they're mixing it in with really affordable fashion from. From shien like I I am sure Amazon is losing some sales to Tik Tok shops that they would like to have but for your point. Jason   [21:08]Amazon still you know growing much faster than the rest of the market and so yeah it's not it's not eroding Amazon's any share it's just eroding their Tam. [21:28] Concerns for Holiday 2024 Scot   [21:19]Got it okay so that's the setup so e-commerce has slowed down a bit retails kind of doing its thing what what does that mean for holiday. Jason   [21:29]Yeah so I I have become Debbie Downer I am concerned about holiday this year, so if we just kind of extrapolate out these Trends again 3.4% growth is below our historic average so if something dramatically didn't turn around if consumer sentiment didn't get a lot better. For this holiday you would expect this to be a slightly soft. Holiday and I I really think this trend of winners and losers is likely to continue through holidays so I think you're going to see a handful of retailers perform really well holiday at the expense of everyone else and I. I I think on average that's going to mean that revenue is kind of similar to traditional holiday growth. But I I suspect that that's that margins, will be even further eroded than usual so so usually for Holiday retail grows about 4.3% e-commerce grows at 12.9% I don't think we'll see either of those numbers for holiday this year and I think. Jason   [22:34]You know if if retail grows at 3.7% and Ecom grows at 8% you know I still think you're going to see Amazon Walmart and Tik Tok grab, disproportionate share of that holiday spend which is going to be bad news, for a lot of other folks and those are just kind of the macro Trends you have to layer in that that there's a couple of reasons to to be worried about this holiday regardless of the trends going into this holiday so. We have a different calendar a number of days in the holiday season every year, and this is our worst year this is the year when we have the fewest days and holiday which actually you know historically does depress sales if there's fewer days to shop then then we sell less stuff and so this is the shortest holiday season that we ever get, and historically an election year is not favorable to Holiday spend right so traditionally there's some some anxiety and you know. Competition for attention, that plays into these November elections that impacts holiday and I I think you know this will be the most polarized election ever and so I think it's you know no matter what the outcome is half the country is going to be pretty depressed and that that likely you know translates into not an awesome holiday so so we got some things working against us. Scot   [23:53]Yeah so if that's the headwinds I'll throw in a Tailwind so as a our celebrated CNBC junkie the all they talk about is the Fed meeting tomorrow where you know it's pretty clear the fed's going to lower interest rates and the big question is is it going to be a quarter point or half a point I think I I I'm not a prognost prognosticator on that I think whatever they do it's going to be wildly popular and relief a lot of this kind of interest rate pressure we've everything's been on so even if it's only a quarter point I think it'll be somewhat euphoric for the market and for for hopefully for consumers to feel like interest rates are coming down a little bit so maybe that'll like bump start some house buying and selling and they'll be a little bit more liquidity in the market so so I'm going to think of that as more of a Tailwind so there's some positivity going on there do you worry about the election because I think it's just going to take forever to figure out who won and, everyone's going to contest it and it's gonna be like this unknown thing for a very long time so we'll see how that goes. Jason   [24:55]Yeah and you live in a swing state so I can only imagine what's happening to your media. Scot   [24:59]Yeah we just kind of we can't even like the male is an inch thick full of like Gunk and you kind of have to sort through all the stupidity I'm not a political person to get to like you know the bill and make sure you pay it and that kind of stuff and then the you know, at the TV is just crazy but thank goodness I'm not in Pennsylvania I think they're getting just totally hammered right now. Jason   [25:18]Yeah probably so and In fairness while we're covering Tailwind like this could be a headwind or a Tailwind but like I will say in general the macros are getting a little better right so inflation has been steadily coming down the 1 the most stubborn version of inflation had been. In in this core retail category is is food and even food you know they're all down below 3% which like pre-pandemic they were kind of in that, 2.1 2.3% and the FEDS sort of stated goal was to keep inflation between 2 and 3% so, you know we still had all the pain of the high prices over the last couple of years but like. Prices really have started to come down so on the 1 hand that helps consumer sentiment you know just like in announcement from the FED would and so that that's favorable you know most of the jobs reports have been you know pretty good there's there there's some decent news that in theory should make people feel better, the flip side is inflation going down actually hurts retail sales because the stuff they sell is cheaper and so when, comping with low inflation against a previous year of higher inflation it actually can make your comps more challenging. So yeah it's a a complicated mix of stuff going on. Scot   [26:35]Yeah does that if you boil all that down do you end up with a like a semi prediction like if your clients were to say to you give me a number what what do you spit out. Jason   [26:45]Yeah I I'm saying buckle up I normal retail holiday growth is 4.3% and I think we're retail growth is going to be below 4 this year. Margins vary wildly depending on the category but I think average margins are going to be down across the board like there there are going to be some some outliers like the the interest rates have really been brutal on the Home Improvement guys right like if you know people can't get loans they're trapped in their house uh they don't buy new houses they spend a lot less in Home Depot and Lowe's and I think it's pretty likely Buy holiday that there's some, some movement in the in the interest rates which like at the at the very least is going to Goose. That housing market which is going to have a trickle on effect to the the Home Improvement guys so I I suspect they'll have. Better holiday than they have the last last couple of years but overall I I'm not optimistic, you know with the caveat that some some really good operators or some people with a really clever model like the Amazon Walmart Tik toks are are likely gonna you know have a really good run this holiday. Scot   [27:51]Okay cool I will I do not have a prediction so I'll stick with yours. Jason   [27:58]Usually that doesn't work out well for you but thanks. Scot   [28:01]I have to go review our it's been so long I have to go look at our New Year's predictions because there's always start to be coming to fruition here soon. Jason   [28:09]Yeah yeah yeah I've kept half an eye on some of them and there's there's going to be some some are going to come down to the wire some I I would have thought were safer but like you know surprisingly Amazon's pretty slow getting their their AI stuff out the door so we'll see. Scot   [28:23]Yeah yeah there's the so this is a sidebar that we didn't really prepare for but did you see they tried to build their own and they kind of couldn't and they had to punt and they're using and. Not anthropology the 1 that starts know they're using anthropic. Jason   [28:41]Anthropic that's right yes I did see that um. Scot   [28:44]Yeah so that's got to be embarrassing I mean they invested like some bazillions of dollars. Jason   [28:47]To I mean Amazon is kind of a not invented here company so like when they have to give up on the internal initiative and and rent someone else's Tech that that probably doesn't feel very good. Scot   [28:59]Yeah I made the mistake of changing my action button on my phone to the chat GPT voice and then I've been I switched from Google in my search to perplexity so I've gotten used to asking these pretty complex questions and then I chat with Alexa and I feel like I'm talking to a kindergarten I'm like I'll even like ask it something you know play this song from this album by that artist and it loses itself halfway through half the time I feel like it's brain is melting and it's just like getting Dumber even though I know it's at a Baseline. Jason   [29:29]Yeah no absolutely and and I would say it's even more acute in my household because I live with a 9-year-old um and and his default is that, it should know all of this stuff right and it asks he asks these really complicated questions and I like can't tell you how many times a day I have to say to my son she's not going to know that. Scot   [29:50]Why dad why. Jason   [29:54]But but for your point hand him like, you know he basically lives to play Roblox and watch you to Awful YouTube videos um and I can hand him chat gbt 40 and like it's about as entertaining as Roblox to him which is amazing. [30:27] The De Minimis Provision Scot   [30:13]Gotcha does uh so you mentioned Teemu and all that jazz you have been tracking this rule that allows China to use our postal system to send stuff free what's going on with that puppy. Jason   [30:27]Yeah so that is famously called the Dominus provision and it's this rule that got. Put into the US Customs Enforcement in like 1938 and the idea was hey if people are going to ship stuff in the United States like we want to charge tax on it we want to charge duties and we want to have rules about what kinds of things from a safety standpoint and from a a human interest standpoint can be imported into our country right and so so normally you ship something from another country it has to go through inspections it has to go through duties but gosh there's this new kind of peer-to-peer marketplaces and there's eBay sellers selling stuff in London to people in the US and we don't have enough Customs agents to inspect all these little, packages that Scott Wingo is helping people sell on the internet right so we're going to pass a rule called the Dominus provision which is if you ship something that has less than 5 dollars of value, you don't have to declare it you don't have to pay taxes on it it's not getting inspected by anyone and it was really just a labor savings for for the the Customs agents in like you know originally in 1939 when like it was it was an e-commerce it was mail order back then. Jason   [31:44]But in like 1996 that that. 5 Dollar limit got bumped to Dollars and then in 2016 the hundred dollars got bumped to $800 and that really opened the floodgates that's when companies like shien and tiemoue figured out that hey instead of filling up a container of stuff, and shipping that container to the US and having to pay C duties on that container and having that container come over in a boat and take a long time to get here I can put each. Sale in an individual envelope, and Air Freight it to the US and it'll be under the 800 hour minimum so I won't have to pay duties on it I won't have to get it inspected. And you know these these factories in China, and these these marketplaces of these factories in China you know quickly built a huge business shipping individual packages to Americans right and so that's. Jason   [32:48]You know today they they quote unquote exploit what we call the Dominus provision. To to ship all those packages right and so there's been a lot of complaints by people that have to compete with the, the those those you know cheap Imports and there's been a lot of saber rattling in Congress about how you know this is exploitation and all these things, and so last week Biden proposed, that he was going to issue an executive order that goods from China no longer qualify for the de minimis exception and so what that would mean is regardless of the value. Every single package that comes from China would have to go through customs would have to be inspected would have to meet all of our import requirements and so, you know some people are looking at that and saying oh man that's going to put a huge dent that's going to make shien goods and Tik Tok goods and tiemoue goods more expensive. And that might rebalance you know all of these trends that that you and I have just been been talking about. I regrettably am a little more skeptical that it's going to have a huge impact. Jason   [33:58]Couple of other sort of interesting facts to know about this Dominus thing so first of all. Not going to shock anyone there's a lot of american-based companies that are now taking full advantage of this de minimis Clause right so. Jason   [34:12]Not going to name names on the podcast but there's a lot of big sellers that are us-based that import containers of goods to Mexico and then put those, unpack those containers in Mexico and ship, the goods in individual packages from Mexico to the US so they get relatively fast delivery and they get to bypass all the duties and tariffs and you know that's that that's being done by by a number of like big famous, uh retailers and brands in the US so this kind of Dominus rule if it if it affects goods from China. I guess the first thing I would expect to see is Tik Tok and team who are going to start shipping containers to Mexico and importing them from another country right and so we're going to get kind of a a wacko, situation and if you if you Google section 321 which is the the. Part of the the Customs law that that that amendments provision is in section 321 shipping you're going to find that there's dozens of 3pls that specialize in in doing this for you so. I think it's going to be harder to knock down than 1 executive order but the bigger problem is. Tik Tok to and shien together are by some estimates sending about 900,000 packages a day. Jason   [35:33]2 of the United States and so if you could magically wave a wand and say all 900,000 of those packages have to be inspected before they can come in. Think what that would do to the rate of goods flowing into the United States right like all everybody's Imports all the containers would get slowed down because, we have the same number of Customs agents we've always had an executive order can't hire a bunch of new Customs agents that would require new budget from Congress and that seems a lot less likely. So just like the reason the Dominus was there is we didn't have enough people to look at all these packages and that was when they're way less packages than there are now so. If we could somehow like do away with Dominus like would it, reduce the number of shipments probably but it still would be way more shipments it would still overwhelm well customs and would likely suddenly mean all those goods that are I guess holiday Goods for the most part are already on the way are already here but like, it it would probably have a dramatic effect on on q1 availability of goods because it would just gum Up Customs so while I I like the ex the spirit of trying to, update the laws to have a More Level Playing Field I kind of doubt in practice that 1 Executive Order is is going to fix this super complicated problem. Scot   [36:51]Yeah now that we're through earning season did you hear anything else interesting in earnings that we were not able to do an Amazon's earning podcast there wasn't really anything super exciting other than. You know kind of more of the same I think you know the AWS did better than a lot of people thought which was good, and that everyone's really focused on that because of the AI stuff everyone's worried Amazon's going to lose share but they seem to be holding their own and then e-commerce and, the retails were were kind of in line so they didn't really slow or speed up, if you have any there was a little color around Prime day but nothing Earth shattering any other interesting things from earnings Seasons you saw. Jason   [37:31]Yeah so so again like what you've you've kind of had 3 kinds of retailers right you had those 5 retailers that I mentioned only only 2 of them have like earnings calls in the US which is, Amazon and Walmart. Tik Tok is owned by bike dance which has has earnings calls in China and team was owned by poor which has earnings calls in China she and is trying to go public they're trying to list in in London so we haven't really seen any, any earnings calls from them so they they've had interesting things you've actually had T-Mobile stock took a pretty big hit after their earnings because they, reported great sales but by dance like lowered his guidance and part of it is I believe. In in response to how much share Tik Tok shops has captured so this is 1 of I think 1 of the most interesting stories of the year is. Jason   [38:23]For probably as long as I've known you Scott like we've always talked about social commerce and people are always talking about like. Hey there's all this attention on Facebook are people going to be able to sell Goods on Facebook and just not even need e-commerce sites anymore and the narrative we've always had is man it's been tried dozens and dozens of times and it so far hasn't worked it seems like. Us consumers don't want to shop on their social platforms they want to interact with their friends on their social platforms and they want to shop on their shop platforms, but the 1 place in the world where this does seem to be working is China where, pendo Duo on Alibaba had been you know pretty successful 10-cent had been pretty successful with with social commerce and, that narrative is kind of over right now because Tik Tok shops is selling twenty billion dollars worth of stuff direct to Consumer and Tik Tok is. Really winning with consumers attention and especially with younger consumer consumers attention so you know. Jason   [39:21]Gen Z Shoppers are are gen Z consumers are spending like an hour a day, on Tik Tok like the Olympics didn't do very well because nobody watches long form video on television anymore like they're all watching all this this short form content on Tik Tok and Tik Tok has been able to turn that attention, into sales so much so that you know the most successful e-commerce site on the planet while Amazon has has kind of said like hey we can't beat him so we're joining him right so Amazon announced, a deal with Tik Tok where you can run an ad on Tik Tok have direct Commerce in that ad and check out with your Amazon credentials and have your order fulfilled by Amazon Prime, in an ad on the Tik Tok platform so that is super interesting and Amazon has said and we're going to start shipping Goods direct from China just like Tik Tok and T-Mobile and shien so they've announced that they're going to, [40:27] TikTok's Impact on E-commerce Jason   [40:19]direct to Consumer from factory model you know presumably to take advantage of some of this these same de de minimis. Jason   [40:27]Provisions that we we talked about earlier so it's kind of interesting to see Amazon have to kind of match some of the, the offerings and play with some of these Frenemies you know historically you know that's that's gone the other way right like it was it was the old Legacy retards that were having to begrudgingly or brands that had to begrudgingly, moved to Amazon so interesting to see Amazon moving to Tik Tok so that was a super interesting. Jason   [40:56]Sort of evolution this year I'm going to be really interested to see whether the, the Tik Tok thing you know it's mostly inexpensive impulse Goods at the moment and, you know can that get traction with staples will people buy more premium Goods we're starting to see more and more Brands I just spent some time with, Keurig which owns you know a bunch of the coffee brands and they're now doing direct Commerce on Tik Tok shops so it kind of went from all unbranded stuff on Chinese factories to, you know we're starting to see branded merchandise in the Tik Tok shop so, that super fascinating and then on a much more scale 1 other thing that really jumped out of me in the investor call after the Amazon earnings is the Amazon CFO talked about. Jason   [41:43]The softness that people have seen in the drug channel right and so Walgreens write a CVS haven't been having a very good run lately and and he called out that like Amazon probably got a boost in sales because the the Walgreens so helpfully locked all the products behind cages and that like uh. You know was an impediment to sales at Walgreens and caused a lot of those sales to happen on Amazon instead and so you know if you remember last year a lot of retailers were claimed you know crying about shrinking complaining a lot about shoplifting you're not hearing a lot of conversation and earnings calls about shrink this year. And now you know Amazon saying like man we're we're a beneficiary of all the the eroded customer experiences, that that have resulted from an overreaction to shrink. Scot   [42:34]Hu yeah I saw there's a CVS has a thing where you can actually tap with your phone I guess it has an NFC chip in it and so I imagine you have to have the CVS app and be logged in and then you can tap to get into that cage so at least you don't have to wait an hour for someone to wander by and and get you your your pack of gum. Jason   [42:55]Yeah which I have mixed feelings about on the 1 hand I really admire The Innovation and that's a clever way to reduce the friction if you are going to put all these products and product jail which is what I call those those cases the, the pro you know the the argument would be, in CVS's case you have to be a member of their Affinity program and have their app on your phone in order to unlock the cases and so like in practice essentially what that means is you know all of America used to be able to shop at CVS now it's a members-only store right like now it's it's it's essentially Costco like you you have to be a member and give them all your data or you're going to have really inconvenient access to the razor blades and so you know, I could see that going either way like if if you compare it to Walgreens or Raid where you don't get that option like it might be looked at favorably but if you kind of look at it in big picture and say wait a minute you're going to lock up all this stuff and then you're going to make me be a member of your Affinity program in order to, to just be able to do what I've always done or at least since the 1920s when Piggly Wiggly opened up all this stuff. Jason   [44:01]I you know I could imagine consumers not not reacting super well to that, I don't actually know if the CVS is is like Bluetooth or NFC but you did bring up another point. IOS 18 launch today and 1 of the cool features in iOS 18 is they have apple is for the first time opened up the NFC chip to third-party apps so. Under iOS 18 it would be possible for CVS to use that NFC chip to unlock the, the uh their their smart locks that would not have been possible in the previous operating system so that's a fun Commerce innovation, that came to uh Apple today, and I haven't seen any announcements yet but I'll I'll be surprised if we don't see some some cool evolution of some of the digital wallets to take advantage of that new feature as well. Scot   [44:50]Pretty cool yeah so anything else before we wrap up that that you want to prep listeners for as we go into holiday. Jason   [44:58]No no I feel like we covered a lot of ground again I'm I'm super sorry on my behalf and and Scott's behalf that we've been a little sporadic with the shows we really appreciate all the kind words people have, been sending our way and for sure I take it as a compliment that people are mad at me that we haven't been putting out shows so hopefully we'll we'll be able to find some good Windows throughout the rest of the year to get some, some shows out there I you know certainly want to do a recap after grocery shop coming up and we'll certainly want to cover holiday and maybe we can do some. Go old school and do some live shows from interrupt this year if we can get you to come to to New York Scott. Scot   [45:35]Yeah yeah the we'll look at the weather and see how it goes. Jason   [45:39]Yeah yeah yeah if if you're an investor in his fund use use that leverage to pressure him to do it. Scot   [45:45]Hey that hurts. Jason   [45:46]And if you're not an investor nurse fund why the heck not. Scot   [45:49]Heck yeah between your fund.com come on aboard. Jason   [45:52]Exactly well Scott that's probably going to be a great place to leave it if you're super ecstatic that we are back on the air feel free to jump on iTunes and give us that 5-star review we want to refreshen those up and. Until next time happy commercing.  

This week's “How She Finds Purpose” insight comes from Lori Marcus. She says - “It was such a moment for me of like, oh, I don't have to quit my job to do something meaningful. I can actually think about the power and position that I have in my seat, to do something meaningful.” Lori is a speaker, coach, author, and independent board director and board advisor. She's the founder of Courtyard Connections LLC, which is an advisory firm focused on marketing and leadership. She's worked with PepsiCo, the Children's Place Retail Stores, Keurig, Peloton, Harvest Business School, and so many more. Lori is also a sought after keynote speaker for her signature talk entitled Train For The Career And Life You Desire. And the focus there is helping women reach their full potential. Lori's a founding member of the Band of Sisters, which is a group of former PepsiCo executives, and they speak to Fortune 500 companies about all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and leadership. And they have a book that you can get and their book is entitled You Should Smile More, How to Dismantle Gender Bias in the Workplace. Lori also uses her passion for fitness and wellness in her mentoring and coaching and in her signature framework, Everything I need to know, I Learned at Yoga. In this episode we discussed: how using your corporate role to leave a legacy and positively impact society is possible Lori's book, and how it offers practical solutions for addressing unconscious gender bias, promoting awareness and inclusivity in everyday interactions the importance of men's roles as allies in addressing gender biases and fostering inclusivity what a portfolio career is and how beneficial this flexible career path can be for both professional growth and personal fulfillment. ‌ Connect with Lori at: Website: https://thebandofsisters.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/band-of-sisters/ You can purchase her book “You Should Smile More: How to Dismantle Gender Bias in the Workplace” here at: Amazon https://www.amazon.com/You-Should-Smile-More-Dismantle/dp/1947951521/ Barnes & Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/you-should-smile-more-dawn-hudson/1140975682     Would you prefer to watch or listen to the podcast on YouTube?Head on over to https://www.youtube.com/@leadershippurposepodcast   Want to connect? Connect with Dr. Robin on  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinlowensphd/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robinlowensphd Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/robinlowensphd/ Email: Robin@LeadershipPurposePodcast.com   Thank you for listening! Rate, review, & follow on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast player. Talk to you soon!   This episode was produced by Lynda, Podcast Manager for GenX Creative Entrepreneurs at https://www.ljscreativeservices.co.nz

What was your #Dumb moment? "I ran the Keurig this morning and forgot to put a mug underneath

What was your #Dumb moment? "I ran the Keurig this morning and forgot to put a mug underneath

A Midland Michigan woman spent the last year living in a sign above a Family Fare supermarket was evicted recently, she had to move out her computer, printer, and ninja sword according to police. Also startup BrainBridge unveiled its concept for a world-first head transplant system.  (00:00:00 - 00:01:35) Happy Memorial Day everyone!  (00:01:36 - 00:05:14) Teasers!