Welcome to Hickstead, home to both Seven Oak Stables, and Blue Acre - two rival stables. Both offer opportunities for their clients to reach the highest level of excellence. Each stable differs from the other, so choose wisely and never forget, loyalty is everything... Meanwhile as the stables battle it out, there's trouble brewing at the university. Be careful, if you don't pick a side you may get caught in the cross-fire...
This is an chilled out rpg with a super friendly and relaxed atmosphere! Remember to sign up with your characters full name in all caps and don't forget to do your claims! Thank you and Welcome, we've been established since 10th March 2009 but unfortunately have had to close guest view of our boards due to multiple sites ripping off our hard work, such a shame! Come chat to us in Discord before joining if you like!.
Beatrice didn’t know what the store had gotten into when they offered to do treats for a daycare program. Almost like a field trip or even a food crawl for kids and teens. The people running it wanted to pre-pay, but her brother insisted it be free since they were making a lot of money anyway. Plus, the treats would be a limited option. So, Beatrice had the task of figuring out kid-likable sweet treats, that were also allergy safe. She personally was able to cook a lot of vegan and gluten-free food, which made things a bit easier.
She arrived at the restaurant when it was closed to the public and began setting up the space. A few of the staff met her, organizing the tables to have a buffet line of various treats and drinks like milk, water, and juice. Beatrice had no idea how many kiddos would show up, but she treated it as if she was catering a wedding. Whatever was left, could be taken home.
Just as she was finishing up fixing the stack of plates – the small bell at the entrance went off. There, stood Moses Baker, along with his sister – with a line of children behind them. Three more adults standing at the end of the caboose.
“Good afternoon, everyone!” Beatrice beamed. “My name is Beatrice, and welcome to Sweet Magnolia’s! Please, take a seat, and I will go over the offerings I have to you shortly!” Gosh, all the young kids were cute. All in their matching t-shirts. It made her feel a bit overwhelmed, as it made her think of the fond memories of her stepson. As well as the children of her friends.
Julia was excited to be able to go on a field trip with her daycare program. She didn't know if she was more energized by helping design the group shirt or by actually going. Having her own clothes that actually fit her was something she was thriving under. It really felt nice not to have to ask the neighbor to buy her clothes, or get hand me downs from her son.
She followed her classmates to the bakery, wondering what kind of treats they would have. Julia was the first one behind Moses and Dahlia, trying her best to keep up with the adults. As soon as the door opened, her eyes widened. The bakery was much fancier than she had imagined and the subtle waft of freshly baked goods reached her nose. When the voice came from a woman, the children turned their heads to see where it was coming from. She smiled at Beatrice and gave her a wave, allowing the other students to verbally greet her. A few of them said Good Afternoon in return before sitting down. Julia sat with a few fellow daycare students, opting for one of the smaller round tables. "Good afternoon! We are all so excited to see what snacks you've made for us." Julia finally called out as soon as everyone got settled in their seats.
Beatrice smiled and clapped her hands together. “We have many options, including fruit, custards, and chocolate. There are signs in front of each platter. Everything is vegan and gluten-free – and a few options that are nut-free, but if there are any other allergies, please let us know.” She really did hope that there was something that everyone could eat. But knowing herself, she was bound to find something interesting.
“Today, we have chocolate chip cookies, mini apple pies, lemon tart, and ginger snap cookies. There are also plenty of beverages. Who wants to start the line?” Beatrice asked.
Julia hadn't been anywhere fancy like this before. She knew the other kids well enough now that she wasn't alone in this feeling. The bakery shelves were full of baked goods and she was excited to try everything she could. "Yum, can't wait to try something new!" One of the kids nearby spoke, and a few other kids nodded. This was the field trip they had been looking forward to since school ended.
Once the question was asked, Julia let a few other students go first before taking her turn. She didn't want to come off as eager - they would be having lunch afterwards anyway. The young girl got up from her chair and headed to the end of the line. She picked up a small plate and glanced at her options. "Did you make these yourself? They look amazing!" The girl's eyes didn't know where to start. She really just wanted to try everything.
"What is your favorite thing out of all these? I really am having a hard time choosing." She wanted to pick something she didn't usually eat at home.
The kids began shuffling through, taking their time. It was evident that a lot of them didn’t have a lot of access to something like this, which made Beatrice feel a tug on her heartstrings. For the longest time, she was hurt by the idea of not having a biological child. But since she’s been in England, she found herself realizing there were plenty of children that needed homes. Maybe she was being selfish back then, but she certainly wasn’t now.
“Yes, we made everything here! My favorite? If I had to choose the lemon tart.” Beatrice truly loved everything that she made. Even the failures. She worked hard for the taste she desired. The line continued to move, and the man that they came in with – seemed to writing a few things down. His eyes were watching carefully, wondering if he was taking note of their favorites.