#A Milder March

[a-cat-in-a-funky-hat]

brace yourself bc i’m gonna go reblog a ton of spring and possibly summer posts bc i hate whatever europe has got going on with their weather rn, it’s march ffs

[jinxed-ninjago]

I'm analyzing this because it HURTS.

This isn't one of Jay’s normal panicked screams. This is a desperate scream. That's a scream from someone who knows he can't do anything about his situation. That's a scream from someone who lost his best friend in front of him.

The reason Jay’s scream is so chilling here is because we never hear him scream like that before or after this. Jay’s screaming is usually mixed between fear or anxiety and anger or frustration (it's almost never one or the other. If he's screaming he's usually frustrated on some level along with panicking). Jay's scream when Cole falls off the Bounty is agony, desperation, and terror, which aren't emotions Jay usually experiences. He might experience a milder form of one of them, but we never see him experience agony and terror like that before or after this scene.

This extends to when Cole gets back to the monastery in time to help fight the Oni too. Jay’s voice cracks when he calls Cole a jerk, and I think the amount of pure, unfiltered fear and agony witnessing Cole's fall firsthand put him through is why he seems genuinely upset when Cole gets back. He's relieved that Cole's alive and well obviously, but he's also still incredibly traumatized from Cole's fall (as is the rest of the team. I'm also not trying to take away from the rest of the team's reactions; I'm just focusing on Jay here because we never see him have this kind of response to anything before or after March of the Oni that I can remember).

It doesn't help that for the next minute and 10 seconds after this, there is no spoken dialogue. How the team reacts to Cole's fall immediately after it is told exclusively through visuals.

(I also want to point out that while Kai did try to turn the Bounty back to go after Cole, after he was convinced they couldn't, he became the logical one in the group. Nya, Zane, and Jay, and Lloyd once he was back on the Bounty, were too emotional to be able to really do anything. I think it says something about Kai that he was capable of being pretty logical after losing Cole compared to Zane. It says a lot about him and I think we as a fandom need to talk about that side of Kai more often)

[covid-safer-hotties]

Old news (From Fall 2021, updated Spring 2022), but still important and a great explainer for those interested in learning.

Also preserved in our archive

By:

Jessica Bernard Associate Professor, Texas A&M University

A new brain-imaging study finds that participants who had even mild COVID-19 showed an average reduction in whole brain sizes.

Researchers have been steadily gathering important insights into the effects of COVID-19 on the body and brain. Two years into the pandemic, these findings are raising concerns about the long-term impacts the coronavirus might have on biological processes such as aging.

As a cognitive neuroscientist, I have focused in my past research on understanding how normal brain changes related to aging affect people’s ability to think and move – particularly in middle age and beyond.

But as evidence came in showing that COVID-19 could affect the body and brain for months following infection, my research team shifted some of its focus to better understanding how the illness might influence the natural process of aging. This was motivated in large part by compelling new work from the United Kingdom investigating the impact of COVID-19 on the human brain.

Peering in at the brain’s response to COVID-19 In a large study published in the journal Nature on March 7, 2022, a team of researchers in the UK investigated brain changes in people ages 51 to 81 who had experienced COVID-19. This work provides important new insights about the impact of COVID-19 on the human brain.

In the study, researchers relied on a database called the UK Biobank, which contains brain imaging data from over 45,000 people in the U.K. going back to 2014. This means that there was baseline data and brain imaging of all of those people from before the pandemic.

The research team compared people who had experienced COVID-19 with participants who had not, carefully matching the groups based on age, sex, baseline test date and study location, as well as common risk factors for disease, such as health variables and socioeconomic status.

The team found marked differences in gray matter – or the neurons that process information in the brain – between those who had been infected with COVID-19 and those who had not. Specifically, the thickness of the gray matter tissue in brain regions known as the frontal and temporal lobes was reduced in the COVID-19 group, differing from the typical patterns seen in the people who hadn’t had a COVID-19 infection.

In the general population, it is normal to see some change in gray matter volume or thickness over time as people age. But the changes were more extensive than normal in those who had been infected with COVID-19.

Interestingly, when the researchers separated the individuals who had severe enough illness to require hospitalization, the results were the same as for those who had experienced milder COVID-19. That is, people who had been infected with COVID-19 showed a loss of brain volume even when the disease was not severe enough to require hospitalization.

Finally, researchers also investigated changes in performance on cognitive tasks and found that those who had contracted COVID-19 were slower in processing information than those who had not. This processing ability was correlated with volume in a region of the brain known as the cerebellum, indicating a link between brain tissue volume and cognitive performance in those with COVID-19.

This study is particularly valuable and insightful because of its large sample sizes both before and after illness in the same people, as well as its careful matching with people who had not had COVID-19.

What do these changes in brain volume mean? Early on in the pandemic, one of the most common reports from those infected with COVID-19 was the loss of sense of taste and smell.

Strikingly, the brain regions that the U.K. researchers found to be affected by COVID-19 are all linked to the olfactory bulb, a structure near the front of the brain that passes signals about smells from the nose to other brain regions. The olfactory bulb has connections to regions of the temporal lobe. Researchers often talk about the temporal lobe in the context of aging and Alzheimer’s disease, because it is where the hippocampus is located. The hippocampus is likely to play a key role in aging, given its involvement in memory and cognitive processes.

The sense of smell is also important to Alzheimer’s research, as some data has suggested that those at risk for the disease have a reduced sense of smell. While it is too early to draw any conclusions about the long-term impacts of COVID-related effects on the sense of smell, investigating possible connections between COVID-19-related brain changes and memory is of great interest – particularly given the regions implicated and their importance in memory and Alzheimer’s disease.

The study also highlights a potentially important role for the cerebellum, an area of the brain that is involved in cognitive and motor processes; importantly, it too is affected in aging. There is also an emerging line of work implicating the cerebellum in Alzheimer’s disease.

Looking ahead These new findings bring about important yet unanswered questions: What do these brain changes following COVID-19 mean for the process and pace of aging? Also, does the brain recover from viral infection over time, and to what extent?

These are active and open areas of research we are beginning to tackle in my laboratory in conjunction with our ongoing work investigating brain aging.

Our lab’s work demonstrates that as people age, the brain thinks and processes information differently. In addition, we’ve observed changes over time in how people’s bodies move and how people learn new motor skills. Several decades of work have demonstrated that older adults have a harder time processing and manipulating information – such as updating a mental grocery list – but they typically maintain their knowledge of facts and vocabulary. With respect to motor skills, we know that older adults still learn, but they do so more slowly then young adults.

When it comes to brain structure, we typically see a decrease in the size of the brain in adults over age 65. This decrease is not just localized to one area. Differences can be seen across many regions of the brain. There is also typically an increase in cerebrospinal fluid that fills space due to the loss of brain tissue. In addition, white matter, the insulation on axons – long cables that carry electrical impulses between nerve cells – is also less intact in older adults.

Life expectancy has increased in the past decades. The goal is for all to live long and healthy lives, but even in the best-case scenario where one ages without disease or disability, older adulthood brings on changes in how we think and move.

Learning how all of these puzzle pieces fit together will help us unravel the mysteries of aging so that we can help improve quality of life and function for aging individuals. And now, in the context of COVID-19, it will help us understand the degree to which the brain may recover after illness as well.

This is an updated version of an article originally published on Sept. 24, 2021.

Study link: www.nature.com/articles/s41586-022-04569-5

[brf-rumortrackinganon]

It does make me ask the question though: since the Sussexes were at the Platinum Jubilee just 3 months earlier and saw firsthand for themselves (or at least became aware firsthand) how ill The Queen was, did they plan that UK/Europe trip to hedge their bets in case something happened? Because don’t forget, they also stopped over on the way to The Hague in April 2022. So that’s 3 appearances in the UK within a span of 6 months. They had to know something. (Which is why I call BS on Harry’s “no one told me how sick she was” comment.)

No, they were counting on her to survive until mid 2023 at least.

Just before her death, Scobie posted an Exclusive about the "year of reconciliation" they had planned after the NF show and Spare, and then TQ died and you could see that they didn't plan it that way but the ball was already rolling.

I suppose Harry might've made some changes so that the anti-Charles sentiment would be milder and focus on William more, after the years of Elizabeth good, Charles and William bad

And he did try with the reconciliation, Scobie said Harry asked 2 mutual friends to reconcile him with William in Feb and March of 2023, but William wasn't interested

Now, you see the squad tuned into Harry's narrative:

Charles flawed person, William demon in human form

Many members of the RF wrote books, why's Harry the only one punished?

How cruel of them to treat the 40 yr old baby this way?

Ohhh, you're right. I forgot about the enormous 'reconciliation' strategy they were planning after Netflix and Spare were out.

Wow. So many olive branches, they all run together.

[autumnleaffay]

Øresund and Denmarks law

To all unfamiliar:

The March Across the Belts (Swedish: Tåget över Bält) was a military campaign waged by the Swedish Empire across the ice between the Danish islands. It lasted between 30 January and 15 February 1658,[a] ending with a decisive victory for Swedish King Charles X Gustav during his first Danish war. (Source: Wikipedia)

This lovely event created the danish "law" that if any Swede crosses the Øresund if it's frozen, the Danes are allowed to hit them with a stick.

The last time it was cold enough for the Øresund to properly freeze was in 1996 (a major Blizzard hit Europe and it was a winter like no other).

Imagine Sweden decided to walk over to Copenhagen to actually make sure that Denmark is doing fine, though he'd never admit that.

Because both Norway, Finland, and Iceland are used to extreme winters. But Denmark always had milder winters than the others.

He has a packing full of food, hot chocolate, Glögg and ..... a walking stick.

Because said Danish law is about a walking stick! It's not a random one.

He shows up at Denmark house, which no longer has electricity but still has its old fireplaces, and hands Denmark the stick with the words:

"A Swede has crossed the Öresund, do your duty."

Denmark just hugs him.

At the end of the day, after all the wars and fights, they are brothers.

[breadedsinner]

Codex: The Starkhaven Sentinel

The (former) Champion of Kirkwall adjusted smoothly to her new role as Princess of Starkhaven, taking great pride in learning their traditions and often speaking with as many of her subjects as she could. She was especially fond of the Grand Tourney, and often competed (though after six consecutive wins she was gently encouraged to retire), but it seemed this event made her wistful for Ferelden, the country of her birth.

Seeing this, for her birthday, the Prince Vael arranged a city-wide festival with Ferelden cuisine and customs. This included enactments of several Blights, with particular attention to the Fourth and Fifth. In that sense, it was a marriage of the two cultures. Over time, the Champion's own Tales were added; the stark differences between the plays and "Tales of the Champion" were immediately noticed and hotly discussed.

The Prince's second gift, at the end of the festival, was a kennel of mabari, as the Champion had recently lost the one she had raised; having completed his duty, the dog had passed quietly.

From then on, the Champion was seldom seen without her entourage of mabari, and eventually gifted all of her children with a pup of their own.

As generations went on, mabari were bred with dogs native to the Free Marches, until a new breed standard emerged. The Starkhaven Sentinel was originally associated with guarding the royal family, the "guard of princes", but became popular guarding farmhands and families alike. The dog was even bigger than its Ferelden cousin, though with a much milder temperament, and a love of children.

If you visit Starkhaven, you will still find the festival is celebrated each year, on the Champion's birthday, and you would not go far without seeing a Sentinel, likely guiding a child through the streets. In this way, the Prince's love for his wife lives on.

[aprettyspy]

For the wonderful @bishybarnaby. Happy Birthday sweetie

Happy Birthday Q

Bond had noticed it as soon as he had returned south from Skyfall. Despite an absolute shed load of work to do as a result of Silva's decimation of their security, Q had taken the time to mark the birthday of one of his minions. There had been cake, singing and the surprise gift of the afternoon off. Each time Bond called to Q Branch, there seemed to be a desk covered in cards, or semi-deflated, shiny helium balloons. Three months after Skyfall, Bond had arrived to return his equipment only to find Q hanging up birthday bunting in preparation for the morning.

He didn't see the fascination with birthdays himself. He had a vague recollection of cake and singing from when he was 7? 8? There had never been a big party- so few other children in the area. At Eton, his birthday had only served to remind him of how alone he was- no big parcels of food and cake for him. As he'd grown older, he had even begun to see his birthday as a steady march towards the inevitable; each one firmly reminding him of the ever shortening odds of him remaining alive.

Clearly, though, his Quartermaster loved them. James imagined a childhood of parties and games, maybe visits to museums and art galleries as he grew up. Definitely a lot of love and warmth. Why else would he insist on making such a fuss of them?

Ten and a half months after he and Q had first met, James had found a small, shiny wrapped parcel in the go-bag he had retrieved from the Aston's boot. Suspicious of an unknown object, he had laid it carefully on the bed, circling it. There were no ticks, it had no smell and wasn't moving or shaking in any way. Gun unholstered, he pulled on the bow, the silver-grey ribbon falling away to reveal a box. Nestled within were a pair of oval cufflinks, platinum and engraved with his initials. He found the note underneath the cushion:

"Happy Birthday, Bond. Do take care of these, they contain a tracker, of course, but also an EMD that will disable all electronic devices within 10 meters, quite the range, if I do say so myself. Regards, Q"

It was only as he shot his cuffs to admire them in place did Bond calculate this was the first birthday gift anyone in MI6 had ever given him and his first since a girlfriend 17 years ago.

***

Bond threw the paper folder at the wall in disgust, the 4 sheets contained within floating gently to the ground. He had reached another dead end. Every single time he thought he had a lead, it just turned out to be a brick wall. The Quartermaster didn't have a birthday. When Q had adopted his new identity, it had not come with such a mundane thing as a birth date - or confirmable age. Such a good job had been done in burying his previous existence that even calling in 3 favours had resulted in drawing a blank. So, he decided to try a different approach.

A few careful questions, a lifetime of reading micro expressions because his life depended on it and some word association meant Bond had narrowed it down to February. He then launched a campaign of attrition. He asked, begged, pleaded, hounded, harassed and even threatened Q to tell him when Q's own birthday was. None of it worked.

Which is why Q now found his office filled with 5 balloon displays, 3 bouquets of flowers, a number of half eaten trays of doughnuts, no less than 12 birthday cards and a pile of unopened gifts. Bond had just treated the previous 2 weeks as if everyday was Q's birthday. Each offering had received the same response; a shake of Q's head and a muttering of, "but it's not my birthday."

February 21st arrived overcast, but a little milder than the previous few days. Bond arrived at Q's office for 9.30 a.m. He handed Q a takeaway cup of Earl Grey and a small, red gift bag. Q placed the tea down carefully and met Bond's hopeful gaze. For the first time, he actually opened his gift - a selection of 3 colognes from his favourite place. Raising his head, he smiled at Bond:

"Thank you, James. It has been a very long time since I marked my birthday."

Bond beamed in delight."So I finally got it right? Happy birthday, Q! May I give you a hug?"

Q nodded and Bond drew him into a warm, relaxing hug. They stayed there for a long moment. Both men knew Q was lying, but they didn't care. From now on, as far as James was concerned, February 21st would always be Q's birthday and he was already planning how to outdo himself next year.

[scotianostra]

On December 1st 2010 an "unprecedented" snowfall and freeze brought Scotland to a standstill.

Across the country temperatures plunged the lowest being -16 in the Highlands and the Forth Road Bridge was closed to traffic for the first time in it's history. Several councils closed all their schools meaning a welcome day off for over 250,000 pupils across the country. The lowest minimum temperature was -21.3C at Altnaharra on December 2nd!

Glasgow and Dundee were among the areas to introduce blanket school closures as well as all state schools in Midlothian, West Lothian and East Lothian. East Coast train services were severely affected with no services going to or from Inverness or Aberdeen from Edinburgh, a reduced service between Glasgow and Edinburgh and services cancelled on the Larkhall-Hamilton to Glasgow line.

BP announced it was causing delays on deliveries from the Grangemouth terminal to its petrol stations across Scotland.

It wasn't all doom and gloom though, Cairngorm, Glenshee and the Lecht said they had lots of fresh snow, while the Nevis Range was due to open with its earlier start to a season for 13 years. Some people took advatage of Lochs freezing over including Lochwinnoch in Renfrewshire, and Lake of Menteith in the Trossachs.

A further heavy snowfall on December 6th added to the chaos, South Lanarkshire Council put up about 200 people on the Monday night in their banqueting hall, including a party of pensioners from Blackpool who had been travelling to Arrochar, two Yorkshire businessmen and an OAP in a hypothermic state who had walked from Coatbridge and had been found in Almada Street in Hamilton.

The period from 9 to 15 December saw milder and quieter conditions with a gradual thaw of lying snow. However, a second spell of severe weather began on Thursday 16 December as very cold Arctic air pushed down through the country and it remained bitterly cold until Boxing Day, with day time temperatures again failing to rise above freezing and very severe frosts. While there was little further snowfall, lying snow remained until 26 to 27 December.

Overall, the prolonged freezing conditions resulted in an exceptionally cold December resulting in: the coldest December in the last 100 years

By the New Year a thaw had begun, and there was no recurrence of the extreme conditions for the remainder of the winter. There was some snowfall in early January, and there was an anticyclonic spell at the end of the month that brought some cold, frosty days. February was above average in temperature and ended on a mild note, although the snow returned in much of Scotland during March.

[dalechevy32004]

Good morning!☕︎😁☕︎ Happy first day of March.

March is an in-between month, When wintry winds are high. But milder days remind us all, Spring's coming by and by.

Wishing us all a good month ahead.💛💛💛 xoxo — feeling blessed.

[treasureyourfire]

Tarot in the shadow of Anxiety

-Long Vent post-

(English is not my mother language, sorry for the mistakes.)

I am currently in such a state that my faith in myself and in the Tarot has been greatly shaken.

If anyone else has experienced something similar, I'd appreciate some advice.

Anxiety and panic make it difficult to read -especially- to myself. I've always struggled with self-confidence, I can't fully trust my intuition either, it's hard for me to hear it. I try to meditate daily (but yeah, there are small or large breaks), try to connect to the right channel with breathing techniques and self-calming before reading, but there are situations when it's very difficult for me to find and maintain my inner peace. I get thrown off balance easily. I've been fine in recent months, although in general I get a milder anxiety when I sit down to read tarot, which I overcome sometimes quickly, sometimes more slowly. I think this originates from lack of self-confidence and maximalism, perfectionism.

However, recently I had a day where I went into overdrive, when I couldn't keep my patience and sanity.

I have been harassed in nearly a week by a hidden phone number that I did not answer. I usually don't answer if it's encrypted or if a displayed number isn't in my contact list.

I asked cards for it and interesting things came out of the caller, what kind of person it might be.

Since when I've started practice tarot, this was my first YES or NO question :

Do I know the person personally?

I got the Five of Swords, which I took as a definite NO, so I didn't deal with it any further.

Then, early in the morning on Monday this week (March 25, 2024), my phone vibrated again, twice in a row, this time with an actual phone number. On the first call, it "rang" persistently and for a long time, the second call was shorter, lasted about half a minute. It wasn't in my phonebook and I wasn't expecting a call from anywhere or anyone, I didn't make new acquaintances recently, so I didn't pick it up either.

But an avalanche of catastrophizing started in me... Could it be a doctor? Ambulance? Police? (I had reason to assume these possibilities due to certain events in my life.)

I didn't dare to call it back for several reasons.

I asked a card.

Why did this number call me?

Ten of Swords

I immediately panicked, especially after looking up the general meaning of the card. I feared the worst.

I asked another YES or NO question;

Should I call it back?

Strenght in Reverse

I took it as a NO.

This was where I first panicked and I was unable to ask the cards for clarification.

After I stopped asking, it was interesting that for some reason I always wanted to say or thought of Nine of Swords instead of Ten of Swords... I wondered what if that meant that my own negative mental state had produced this Ten of Swords and I didn't got the true message.

After making sure everyone is all right in the family, a big stone rolled off my chest. This time, however, I didn't leave it at that and called the helpline with that I might be a victim of telephone harassment and gave them the new number. After the family's and my own private investigation, it turned out that the number, which was not encrypted, was probably a wrong number and was not the same person who had been calling me from the hidden number. We laughed about it.

But next, the guilt and overthinking hit me... Why did I act... I rushed it... I want to stand up for myself "for once", but I still feel guilty, what if I send the police on an innocent person. As long as they deal with the matter... (I am writing this post on Wednesday. The police haven't contacted with me since then, and I expect that (even though it's their job to see about it) they let it go.)

After getting into a "calmer" state of mind, I sat down again that day to ask for clarification.

For the Ten of Swords (Why did this number call me?) I received the following cards;

Six of Pentacles

Seven of Cups

Five of Swords

Queen of Cups (I felt that this card represented me, but even though it was an upright card, in this situation it did not indicate its positive/healthy state.)

I read a negative message from it.

I asked it differently.

What was the caller's intention? ;

Ten of Pentacles

Four of Cups

This was where the complete confusion finally came.

This sentence comes out of my mouth many times during some readings; "I wish I hadn't asked."

I felt that the first and second half of the message were completely opposite to each other. First I thought of negative intention, then positive intention. Of course, I don't know the other side, and it seems I won't know what the caller's true motivation was.

Maybe the cards were showing my own confusion? That I thought of several possibilities regarding the case?

I haven't known the meaning of each card comprehensively, so it's difficult for me to interpret and read them together, especially when several cards pop out at the same time (I prefer to work with pop-out cards rather than drawing), and I know that negative emotions and thoughts can take me in the wrong direction, no matter how hard I try to ground myself.

Maybe I wanted to analyze a too complicated case (or I made it too complicated for myself) with too many cards and questions, because in the end it all felt like a big, self-contradictory mess. I tortured myself emotionally too much. I had enough and didn't want to continue to force myself to calm down, and to translate the messages more deeply and soberly.

Last I asked advice:

What to do next to make it the best for both sides:

The Magician

This was the point, when I had finally had enough for the day. For me, the Magician seemed to "scream": "Create, act!" And I was just... What should I do? Should I call the helpline again to ask to forget my call from earlier? Should I worsen the situation or my own mental well-being? No! It was enough! I just wanted to run away and break away.

My second intuition was that the Magician indicated that I should continue to deal with my own things (this card has shown itself to me many times in the nearly past), to look at the big picture, my whole life, not just this one day, as it was the only Major Arcana in the reading. However, I wouldn't consider The Magician as a "Let it go and move on" card. Or do I should?

In hindsight, under action and creation it might be referring to bringing my thoughts down to earth level, and with this post I just have done that.

In any case, my self-confidence went under the frog's butt after the incident, and maybe I'm even more anxious to take the Tarot in my hands... I'm afraid of new emotional turbulences (I hated them always), of being overwhelmed. Supposedly there is NO such thing as a WRONG READING (but maybe wrong channel), yet I am afraid that I am not doing it right… I am afraid of another meltdown and disappointment. If it turns out that Tarot is not my path either, then I have no idea what it could be...

I'm still very much a beginner, there are pitfalls with this, I shouldn't take it to heart, but it's always been difficult for me.

Do you have any advice for me about this spread?

What would you have read from these cards?

Looking at my situation through the eyes of an outsider, maybe would help me to be more enlightened.

I've tried to research the following topics before to become a better reader, but I'm grateful for any advice you guys can give me. <3

What techniques do you recommend to read card combinations?

Do you have any other tips for dealing with my "tarot-anxiety"?

advice on how to manage my relationship with Tarot,

advice on how to strengthen the connection with my intuition

advice on how to strengthen the connection with my spirit guides?

When does the mind (knowledge or ego) speak and when does intuition speak?

If you're still here and read all the way through, thank you very much!

We never know what someone has to experience and learn on their own path, there may be low points, but I hope that I will not create more posts with such a desperate and tormented state of mind.

Take care of yourselves. <3

[mariamariquinha]

Distraction - An Alfie Solomons Drabble

****

You saw him every day, especially in March. It was more sunny, the weather was noticeably milder, and he sat on the same bench with a beautiful dog that you later found out was called Cyril. Not because you asked, of course, but the owner himself had a deep voice and after the first time you heard him call to the animal, after letting him go for a while to sniff near the grass or the concrete, you never forgot it.

You, on the other hand, lived in constant idleness in a very large house with a mother almost always exploring the business as a personal friend of so many other important women in the city, so you were left to look for distractions - your legs couldn't stand the lack of exercise, so she didn't complain about you going out constantly. 

Mr. Solomons captured your attention by reputation, of course, but also by the way he just was. How he walked, how he used a cane on cold days and even how he nibbled on the cakes or bread he brought with him on his morning walks. After the first unexpected meeting, where you sat on benches opposite each other, you ended up making a point of aligning the schedules.

As a woman without many expectations, that lasted like a good occupation. Gradually, when you were unable to go to the park or just swept away by a terrible rain, you would sit by the window with a forgotten book and think about him. 

You even asked the family doctor during one of his occasional consultations with your father, who was a man suffering from a blood disease, about the appearance of a limp leg on cold days. You didn't get many answers, but you had an inaccurate diagnosis of back problems.

Medical books became your distractions, the kind that held your attention. Men of war with wounds and, consequently, given over to the follies of their own minds. 

The crippling brain diseases that turned them into beasts, into creatures instead of people, and from there you wondered if he, a man of war, also dealt with the fear of becoming a beast. 

You started to look at him with different eyes, with more curiosity and incitement to want to ask questions, but gave up for fear of being too invasive or crossing a line, coming from someone like him. 

Until one day something changed.

He wasn't in the same place as usual. You thought it was odd, sat hesitantly on your bench and stared at your own feet, frowning. 

Suddenly you saw a pair of feet, then a large dog sniffing at your feet, slowly climbing up your leg. Alfie Solomons was there, staring down at you, scarier than you could ever imagine. 

“We can have a coffee.”

It wasn't a question, nor an assumption - he was just saying, like someone would say the sky was blue.

“Pardon?”

“I know you won't object,” He pointed out, just to say the name of your father, then your mother, then yours. You stared at him with your mouth agape, a touch confused. “I'm sure your parents don't either.”

And you considered him for a while, not with fear but with intrigue. He had no men with him, nor anything that would induce you to think it was a trap. 

So you smiled. 

“As long as it's not bad for your sciatica, Mr. Solomons.”

****

Taglist

@buttercup32sstuff​

[outofangband]

Spring Headcanons for the Elves of First Age Beleriand

Autumn headcanons

Winter headcanons

Obviously I couldn’t go through each group or culture so please feel free to send one and I’ll tell my ideas for them! I’m going to do humans next. Feel free to request for outside of Beleriand too!

For elves the season of stirring (Echuir in Sindarin) begins the equivalent of February First and ends March 27th. Yestarë or Iestor is the first day of the year, approximately March 28th on the Gregorian calendar. Echuir (Sindarin) or stirring corresponds to February first to 27th March on the Gregorian calendar and ethuil or spring began on March 29th and ended May 21st.

Stirring and Spring are seasons of awakening. The frost melts, the rain replaces the snow, and the grounds become green once more. The elves become reacquainted with the earth.

(Note: I do think some elves hibernate but that’s a different post)

Note: I used a more canon climate for Beleriand and other lands here but I'm always happy to make environmental or other world building posts for locations based on other places including specific real ones like I did for the Havens of Sirion! I did talk about non temperate climates a little here and I did more on the winter posts

The Northern Sindar (in Mithrim and elsewhere in Hithlum as well as parts of Nevrast) mark the beginning of spring by the return of leaves to trees and through watching the migration of certain communities of birds back to their homes. Bird houses are built by some, constructed of natural materials like bark and woven grasses. Children often collect feathers left behind. The Northern Sindar also gather may apples, wild strawberries and rhubarb which are favorite spring edible flora. These are often used for cool drinks, the strawberries used to sweeten.

Seasonal changes in Doriath are mostly mild though there are regions that experience more extreme differences throughout the year. While snow rarely falls due to the Girdle, the winter months are still colder. Spring in Doriath brings a forest floor carpeted in new flora; crocuses, snowdrops, bluebells, wild tulips, primrose and more early spring flowers. Lighter materials are often worn in celebration of milder weather. Traditional outfits for spring use fabric created from nettle fibers, a custom shared with the Sindar outside Doriath as well as certain Avarin groups.

In Himring, stirring and then spring represent a slow release of the extreme cold and snowy conditions of the local winters. Visibility becomes clearer as the lands themselves are uncovered. Scouting groups, though in operation all year round, are sent out more often and for longer periods as travel and communication become easier. Trade also increases and rations become more generous. The gardens in Himring (post here) are started as soon as the ground is soft enough to allow for it.

Outside of this climate, the beginning of spring might indicate a rainy season as it does in some regions East of the Ered Luin. Some of the Silvan who live there gather water and collect rain for when the overflowing rivers become too dangerous to use reliably. Shelters are fortified with a variety of materials before the beginning of rainy season and in some locations settlements move temporarily to higher ground

Amphibians returning to activity occurs throughout Beleriand in early spring. Elven children (and human children of course!) often enjoy staying up to here the first choruses of frogs, searching for eggs and watching tadpoles. Many adults too find joy in this new continuing of life. In Nargothrond for example, there is a tradition to follow short migrations of salamanders as they reach the ponds they will lay eggs in.

(I worry this one isn’t as good as my previous ones, I hope it’s ok! Please feel free to give requests)

[covid-safer-hotties]

NYC COVID cases up 250% in 2 months — and this variant's harder to duck

Published July 4, 2024

Also posted on our archive

New York is experiencing a bump in COVID cases that might put a damper on people’s summer plans.

Cases have been rising nationally and locally for about two months, driven by so-called “FLiRT” variants — versions of the virus that have evolved to evade immunity.

Mandatory COVID mitigation measures have largely been waived, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has eased its recommendations for how long people should isolate themselves after getting sick. But there are still precautions people can take to avoid getting COVID or spreading it to others.

Here’s what to know about the latest COVID wave.

How big is the current COVID wave?

New York City data shows an average of 687 cases of COVID reported per day during the week ending on June 22, 250% higher than the amount reported two months prior. That same week, there was an average of 53 COVID-related hospitalizations each day — primarily involving older adults — and one death, according to city data.

A decline in testing means COVID case counts don’t necessarily show the full picture, according to public health experts. Based on state wastewater testing data, New York City appears to be experiencing a bump in COVID similar to the increase seen last summer. Current levels of the virus, however, are far lower than what was detected during a surge last winter.

Infectious disease experts say COVID is starting to follow a predictable pattern, with a surge in the fall when temperatures start to drop and people gather indoors, and a smaller bump in the summer.

In the summer, “there are family gatherings, there are weddings,” noted Dr. Jessica Justman, an epidemiologist and professor at the Columbia Mailman School of Public Health. And while people are more likely to spend time outdoors, where the virus is less likely to spread, “we also spend time indoors when we have a heat wave like we had last week.”

What do we know about the FLiRT variants?

Many people have developed some level of immunity against the virus, either through vaccination or past infection. While “FLiRT” variants can slip past that immunity, having some immunity still tends to make symptoms milder, said Andrew Pekosz, a professor at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health who researches respiratory viruses.

“Overall, disease severity is dropping,” he added.

Dr. Aaron Glatt, chair of the medicine department and chief of infectious diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau, agreed that the current strains of COVID that are circulating do not appear to be causing serious illness in most cases.

“It's the typical COVID presentations,” Glatt said of patients he’s seen. “They have a cough. They may have some upper respiratory symptoms like a cold, runny nose.”

Glatt said he has seen more severe cases where people are experiencing shortness of breath, and is still concerned about older patients and those who are otherwise at high risk for severe disease. But he said it’s now rare for COVID patients to need to be placed in intensive care units.

What should I do if I get sick?

Until recently, the CDC recommended that people who tested positive for COVID isolate themselves for several days. But in March, responding to declining cases and disease severity overall, it revised that guidance to instead focus on a given individual’s symptoms.

The latest guidance — which applies to a variety of respiratory illnesses — calls for sick people to stay away from others until their symptoms have been improving for at least 24 hours and they haven’t had fevers for at least 24 hours.

In the five days after isolating, the CDC suggests practicing good hygiene, wearing a mask and not standing too close to other people.

The CDC notes that a COVID test can give a “rough approximation” of whether someone is still infectious, but advises that people should follow the same guidance regardless of whether they're sick from COVID or another respiratory illness.

Glatt said people in recovery should use common sense, including avoiding visiting older relatives or people who are at high risk for severe COVID.

“When you're starting to feel better, I would certainly let the other people around you know, ‘I recently had COVID,’” he added.

Where can I get tested for COVID?

New York City's once ubiquitous dedicated COVID testing sites have largely disappeared. But tests are still available at NYC Health and Hospitals locations, urgent care centers and other medical providers.

Many New Yorkers are now more accustomed to reaching for home testing kits, but they are also more likely now to have to go to the pharmacy and pay for them out of pocket. Insurers may cover home testing kits but are no longer required to since the federal COVID public health emergency expired in spring of 2023. The federal program distributing free COVID tests has also ended.

The city previously distributed free kits as well, but that program ended in March after about 150 million free rapid tests were handed out, according to city health department spokesperson Patrick Gallahue.

Those who do take home tests should remember that it can take a couple of days after exposure to test positive. It’s possible to report home-testing results online here.

When should I get my next COVID shot?

Although the CDC says adults over 65 can get an updated COVID vaccine every four months, Glatt said once a year is likely appropriate for most people.

Pekosz said the vaccines that are currently available are not very well-suited to the strains of COVID that are circulating, and people who are looking to get a shot should likely wait until updated vaccines come out in a couple of months.

“This coming fall's COVID vaccine will be a better match, although again, it probably won't be perfect,” since the virus continues to evolve, he said.

[veronicaleighauthor]

Fun Facts About “A Slice of Life”

Last Sunday, my story “A Slice of Life” was published in Black Cat Weekly #141. It is the second installment of the Sleuthing Smith Sisters Series. If you’re interested in buying the issue for your Kindle, you can do so here. If you’re interested in buying the story alone for your Kindle, you can do so here, and I’ll get royalties.

Today I’m going to write about the Fun Facts/Behind the Scenes stuff that went into writing this story. Enjoy!

This story takes place in January of 1919, during the Spanish Influenza pandemic. Minnie is working as a housekeeper in a hospital and Brenna is studying to be a veterinarian. Much of their feelings and experiences are based on my own and my sister’s during the covid pandemic. I was working as a housekeeper in a nursing home, and my sister was studying to be a vet assistant. The fear, the pain, the loss, the mask wearing – it was the same in 2020 as it was in 1919. However, by 1920, it is estimated that anywhere from 17 million to 100 million people worldwide died from the Spanish Flu.

Contrary to what it was called, the Spanish Flu didn’t begin in Spain. It began in an army camp in Kansas in 1918, although it may have had a precursor in 1916/1917 in military hospitals in France and England. It was believed that the strain was beginning to die out in the fall of 1918, but when the Great War ended and people gathered in crowds to celebrate, it created the deadly second wave. There were four waves altogether, which lasted into 1920, and a milder version of it in 1921, but by then it was considered more of a seasonal flu. So, why was it called the Spanish Flu? Because Spain was the first to report on the pandemic. A neutral nation, they had a free press and stated how many died from the flu in Spain. This gave the false impression amongst other countries that the flu began in Spain. America, Great Britain, and other European countries had a censored press and they didn’t cover it the way Spain did. For that reason, it was called the Spanish Flu.

The house the Smith sisters live in is a Parsonage, which belongs to the church their father serves as a minister. The house is in fact based on the house I live in, and have lived in for nearly twenty-six years. Built in 1913, it is a Sears Roebuck House. Well to-do families in the early 20th Century could order plans and materials from the Sears Roebuck Catalogue and build the house of their dreams. This isn’t the first time I featured our house in a story. The first time I wrote about it was in a gothic mystery entitled, “No Place Like Home.”

It is briefly mentioned in the story, that when Minnie and Brenna were younger, they had knock-down-drag-out fights. Well, when my sister and I were growing up, we had knock-down-drag-out fights. They tapered off when I was about twelve and she was nine. One time, we were fighting and losing our balance, we slammed into a piano. Neither of us told our parents, fearing we would get into trouble.

To my surprise, there really was a Providence, Indiana, in Johnson County. However, this was meant to be a fictional town, set in Vigo County, along the Wabash River.

Louisa May Alcott, author of “Little Women” is mentioned. Her classic coming of age story of the March sisters heavily inspired my own writing when I was a teen. I wrote about Minnie and Brenna back then, though they more resembled the March sisters, than when they do today. To this day Alcott is an influence in my writing.

A Hoosier Cabinet is shown in the story. A cupboard, or free-standing cabinet, it could be used as a workstation. According the Wikipedia, in that era, many homes didn’t have built in cabinets and Hoosier Cabinets were used to store and make meals on. Discontinued in 1942, you can still find different styles of Hoosier Cabinets at antique shops nationwide.

Until next time!

[indiatajtours01]

Taj Mahal Day tour by India Taj Tours Company.

India Taj Tours Company's Day Tour of the Taj Mahal Unquestionably captivating, a day trip to see this famous structure ensures that visitors will never forget their experience. You can count on an itinerary that has been painstakingly crafted by India Taj Tours Company to make the most of your trip.

Why Opt for Taj Tours Company in India?

The India Taj Tours Company is highly known for its carefully planned itineraries and outstanding service. Their day trip to the Taj Mahal is planned to give you a smooth experience from the time you check out of your hotel until you return.

Early Morning Departure

The tour starts early in the morning when you leave your Delhi hotel. Your air-conditioned, cozy car will be ready to whisk you away on a picturesque trip to Agra so you can arrive rested and ready to explore.

Arrival in Agra

A native guide will meet you when you arrive in Agra and provide you enlightening information about the rich history and culture of the city. The Taj Mahal is, of course, your first stop.

Investigating the Taj Mahal

You will be astounded by the Taj Mahal's utter magnificence and splendor as soon as you enter its gates. A masterwork of Mughal architecture, the white marble monument was constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan in honor of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

Tour Guided

Your guide will regale you with amazing tales regarding the building of the Taj Mahal, its historical significance, and the love tale that inspired it. You'll have plenty of time to snap lots of pictures, tour the grounds, and the main mausoleum.

During lunch

Following your tour of the Taj Mahal, you will be escorted to a nearby eatery where you will savor a delectable meal of authentic Indian fare.

A visit to the Agra Fort

You will next proceed to another UNESCO World Heritage site, Agra Fort. In addition to providing breathtaking distant views of the Taj Mahal, this red sandstone fort provides insight into the lavish lifestyles of the Mughal emperors.

Investigating the Neighborhood Market

You'll have time to visit the Agra local marketplaces before returning to Delhi. Shopping for mementos, such as fine marble inlay work and traditional crafts, is a terrific chance.

Go back to Delhi

With pleasant recollections of a day well spent, the tour ends with a leisurely drive back to your Delhi hotel, where you will arrive in the evening.

In summary

The ideal approach to see one of the most stunning sites on earth is with an India Taj Tours Company day trip to the Taj Mahal. A well-thought-out itinerary, comfortable transportation, and knowledgeable guides ensure that you have a day to remember.

FAQs

What should I pack for the day trip to the Taj Mahal?

It is advised to wear walking shoes and comfortable clothing. It's a cultural site, so please dress modestly. Is it allowed to snap pictures inside the Taj Mahal?

Tripods are not allowed, but taking pictures is okay. Is lunch included in the price of the tour?

Yes, the package includes a delectable lunch at a nearby restaurant. Which season is ideal for seeing the Taj Mahal?

The milder months of October through March are the ideal times to visit. How far does it take to get to Agra from Delhi?

Depending on the state of the traffic, the travel takes three to four hours.

[ghumindiaghum]

Kumbakonam Travel Guide: Hidden Gems & Local Insights

About Kumbakonam

History of Kumbakonam

Kumbakonam’s history dates back to the Sangam period, making it one of the oldest inhabited towns in India. The name Kumbakonam comes from the words Kumbha (pot) and Konam (corner). According to legend, a pot of nectar fell here during a great deluge, and the town has been a sacred place ever since. The Chola dynasty, in particular, left a significant mark on Kumbakonam, evident in its temples and architecture.

Kumbakonam Travel Guide – Ideal Trip Duration

Plan for 3 to 4 days to get a good feel of Kumbakonam. This allows you to visit the main temples, explore local markets, and soak in the town’s atmosphere without rushing.

Kumbakonam Travel Guide – Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kumbakonam is from October to March. During these months, the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring the town and its temples.

Peak Season

The peak season is in December and January, particularly around the time of the Mahamaham festival, which occurs every twelve years. During this time, Kumbakonam becomes very lively with many visitors.

Kumbakonam Weather

Kumbakonam has a tropical climate. Summers (April to June) are hot, with temperatures often above 40°C. The monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rains. Winters (October to March) are milder and more pleasant, making it the best time to visit.

How to Reach Kumbakonam

Roads, railways, and airlines connect Kumbakonam well.

By Air: The nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli International Airport, about 91 km away. It has regular flights from major cities.

By Train: Kumbakonam Railway Station is a major railhead with connections to Chennai, Bangalore, and other cities.

By Road: There are regular bus services from Chennai, Trichy, and nearby towns. Taxis and car rentals are also available.

Top Places to Visit in Kumbakonam

Kumbakonam is famous for its temples. Here are some must-visit ones:

Adi Kumbeswarar Temple

Adi Kumbeswarar Temple is one of the oldest and most significant temples in Kumbakonam, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple stands out for its tall gopuram and detailed carvings.

Darasuram Airavatheswar Temple

Darasuram Airavatheswar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a marvel of Chola architecture. It’s located in the nearby town of Darasuram and is famous for its intricate stone carvings.

Sarangapani Temple

Sarangapani Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It’s one of the Divya Desams and is known for its grand gopuram and beautiful architecture.

Uppiliappan Temple / Oppilliappan Temple

Uppiliappan Temple, also called Oppilliappan Temple, dedicates itself to Lord Vishnu. Unique for its tradition of not using salt in any food offerings, it attracts many devotees.

Mahalingaswamy Temple – Thiruvidaimaruthur

This temple, located in Thiruvidaimaruthur, dedicates itself to Lord Shiva. It has a large temple complex and a sacred well believed to have healing properties.

Ramaswamy Temple

Ramaswamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. It is known for its beautiful murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and its ornate pillars.

Dhenupureeswarar Temple – Patteeswaram

Dhenupureeswarar Temple in Patteeswaram dedicates itself to Lord Shiva. The temple offers a serene atmosphere and features beautiful architecture.

Suryanar Kovil / Suryanarayana Temple

Suryanar Kovil is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. It’s one of the Navagraha temples and is visited by those seeking the blessings of the Sun God.

Agneeswarar Temple / Kanjanur Sukran Temple

Agneeswarar Temple, also known as Kanjanur Sukran Temple, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is associated with the planet Venus (Shukra). It’s a tranquil spot with spiritual significance.

Mahamaham Tank

Mahamaham Tank, a large temple tank, sits in the center of Kumbakonam. People consider it sacred and celebrate the Mahamaham festival there. Many small shrines encircle the tank.

Nachiyar Kovil / Thirunaraiyur Nambi Temple

Nachiyar Kovil, also known as Thirunaraiyur Nambi Temple, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his consort, Goddess Nachiyar. The temple is famous for its Garuda Sevai festival.

Thirunageswaram Temple / Rahu Temple

Thirunageswaram Temple is dedicated to Rahu, a celestial body in Hindu astrology. It’s one of the Navagraha temples and is known for its beautiful architecture.

Kalyanasundareswarar Temple

Kalyanasundareswarar Temple dedicates itself to Lord Shiva and Parvati. It boasts elaborate sculptures and celebrates the Panguni Uthiram festival.

Swamimalai

Swamimalai is one of the six abodes of Lord Murugan. The temple is on a small hill and offers great views of the surroundings. It’s a popular pilgrimage site.

Thirubuvanam

People know Thirubuvanam for its Chola temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple stands as an architectural masterpiece. The town also gains fame for its silk weaving industry.

Things to Do around Kumbakonam

Kumbakonam has more to offer beyond its temples:

Explore Local Markets: Visit the local markets for traditional crafts, spices, and Kumbakonam degree coffee powder.

Attend Festivals: Experience local festivals like Mahamaham and Pongal.

Visit Heritage Sites: Explore nearby UNESCO World Heritage sites like Darasuram and Gangaikonda Cholapuram.

Enjoy Local Cuisine: Taste Kumbakonam kadappa and traditional filter coffee.

Take a River Cruise: Enjoy a boat ride on the Cauvery River.

FAQ about Kumbakonam Travel Guide

What is Kumbakonam famous for?

Kumbakonam is famous for its temples, rich history, and vibrant festivals.

How many days are enough for Kumbakonam?

A 3 to 4-day trip is ideal to explore Kumbakonam and its surroundings.

What is the best time to visit Kumbakonam?

October to March is the best time to visit Kumbakonam.

Is Kumbakonam safe for tourists?

Yes, Kumbakonam is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s always good to take standard precautions.

What are the must-visit temples in Kumbakonam?

Must-visit temples include Adi Kumbeswarar Temple, Darasuram Airavatheswar Temple, and Sarangapani Temple.

How can I reach Kumbakonam?

Kumbakonam is accessible by air (nearest airport: Tiruchirapalli), train, and road.

What local dishes should I try in Kumbakonam?

Try Kumbakonam kadappa and Kumbakonam degree coffee.

Are there any shopping spots in Kumbakonam?

Yes, there are local markets where you can buy traditional crafts, spices, and coffee powder.

What are some nearby attractions to visit from Kumbakonam?

Nearby attractions include Darasuram and Gangaikonda Cholapuram, as well as the Navagraha temples.

Can I visit Kumbakonam during the monsoon?

Yes, but prepare for heavy rains and high humidity. Sightseeing is more comfortable in the winter months.