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coutelier · 5 years ago

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Rats & ROBOTS

Jennifer Airhart faces a home invasion of the cheese-munching whiskered variety.

Genre: Science Fiction

Word Count: 4745

Warnings: Rats, I guess. Or robots - really it’s pretty much all in the title.

Wattpad

No one would have believed, on a spring evening in Irongate, that human affairs were being watched from the lighthouse’s depths; that as Jennifer Airhart busied herself soldering circuits under a microscope, she too was being scrutinised and studied. With infinite complacency she went about her daily routine – tinkering in the morning, lunch, tinkering in the afternoon, dinner, more tinkering – serene in the assurance of her dominion in this place. Yet, from shadows close to the floor, minds that were as strange to her as hers was to most people she met, regarded her home with envious eyes. And slowly, but surely, they drew their plans against her.

“Ready!” Jennifer triumphantly set down her tools.

Behind the blonde woman Hull’s one green eye hovered. He was like a glistening manta-ray held aloft by a silver tentacle, the body it belonged to hidden in the murky depths high above and further obscured by bundles of cables stretched across the lighthouse’s interior.

“For what are you ready, ma’am?�� He asked.

“Glad you asked!” Jennifer beamed as she opened a cabinet to secure the new board in place. “This upgrade will increase your speed and efficiency by as much as five percent and increase your range and number of bots you can control at once.”

But despite Jennifer’s big grin Hull dipped. “I was unaware I was not performing to your satisfaction, ma’am.”

“What?” Jenn’s eyes shivered as her jaw hung open for a moment. “No, no, no! That’s not what I meant at all!” She leaned over, assuredly stroking the silvery eye stalk while silently kicking herself for being so inept she could mess up even when talking to a computer that she’d made. “This will just make your job a lot easier. Plus, you’ll be able to drive the van anywhere on the continent! We’ll be able to picnic by the seaside together.”

Hull bobbed in a manner which Jennifer took to be happily, so then she asked, “now, are you ready?” He bobbed again, so with no more fanfare she spun herself to a switch and flipped it.

A section of the wall exploded, showering the round room with sparks. The green emergency bot was quick to respond, zipping out of its alcove to extinguish the fire with puffs of carbon dioxide from its long arms while a sputtering Jennifer disconnected the power.

“Well,” Jennifer sighed and grumbled, “I suppose I really ought to just expect this kind of setback by now.”

She soon set to work identifying the cause of this particular hiccup, leaning into the damaged section of wall with a flashlight held between her teeth. It looked like the insulation on some of the wires had been chewed through, and there were some tell-tale droppings around. “Rats,” she mumbled.

Jennifer put away the flashlight as Hull’s green spinning lens moved closer to ask, “Shall I contact an extermination agency, ma’am?”

“Don’t know that’s necessary just yet.”

“Perhaps we should lay down traps,” Hull suggested – if Jenn didn’t know better, she would have said eagerly. “Poison?”

“Why are you so keen on exterminating them?” Jennifer sighed as she leaned back on her workbench. “It’s not nice, and honestly kind of creepy.”

“My primary function is your well-being. My research suggests these are standard procedures in the event of rodent infestation.”

“We don’t know it’s infestation yet. It could just be a rogue rat working alone.”

“Whatever the number, ma’am, I have identified several methods to humanely take care of the creatures.”

“You mean, like, sending them away to a special rat sanctuary where they’ll be surrounded by wheels and cheese?”

“The rodents will be dead, ma’am.”

“Sure you’re not just mad the picnic has been delayed?” Jenn smirked, Hull recoiling as if affronted by such a vile accusation as having human emotions. Of course, she knew he hadn’t. She’d made him, after all, designing every aspect of his personality. Hull was a warm, avuncular, presence that she often let herself slip into imagining had real feelings. But the truth was very little he ever said or did ever surprised her. “For now,” she sighed, “we need to find out what we’re dealing with, and if there is an infestation see where they’re coming from. Have some bots set up multi-spectrum cameras around the grounds and look out for any unusual activity. Later we’ll decide how to proceed.”

Jennifer yawned – it had been a long days tinkering and she needed to store up energy for more tinkering tomorrow. She could leave the rest of the work to the bots and review in the morning. “Don’t worry,” she patted Hull’s cold metal skin, “you’ll get your picnic.”

Hull gently swayed to follow her as she made her way to the door, reminding her, “I do not ‘worry’, ma’am.”

Jennifer returned a small, soft smile. “I know. Good night Hull.”

“Good night, Miss Jennifer.”

Out in the courtyard that separated the lighthouse from the cottage and garage, the last gleams of twilight were fading. Jennifer had always loved this time, when the bright blue day and fierce energy of the sun met with the stillness of the moon and endless mystery of night; like standing at the threshold between reality and dreams. It never lasted long enough. Sometimes she dreamed of living on a world tidally locked with its star so the twilight would last forever - but then maybe even there the magic would fade after a while. The lighthouse looming above was dark now, yet even so this was a good place; outside the world could be callous and cruel, but no such troubles reached her here.

The whole domain was enclosed by a ten-foot wall. In one corner stood a rosebush, a scant few steps from where more bots were flattening the grass under their heavy tracks while churning the earth before them with fork and spade attachments. It was a shame the bush would have to go, but this was to be the site of Jennifer’s new farm – why leave the lighthouse for fruit and vegetables when she had the space to grow her own here? There would have to be a greenhouse as well, then if she could figure out a way to make her own uranium she’d be almost entirely self-sufficient.

As Jennifer inspected the site, excited and proud to see her plans coming to fruition, she felt a twinge in her side – a reminder that, when it was all done, there would be no-one to share it with. Doctor Sarkis would come by, she supposed, but those visits were few and far between, and in between there was no-one…

She became momentarily lost in her own maudlin thoughts, recalling a time when she had lived surrounded by voices – real voices – and joy and laughter. Now that past seemed like a faint, plaintive echo. A small tug on her skirt brought her back into the now, where she looked down to see one of the smaller bots blinking at her with its lens. Motors whirred in its mechanical arms as it lifted them to show her something – in its little metal pincers it held a rose.

Jennifer peered at the bot, puzzled by this behaviour. ‘My primary function is your well-being’ Hull had said – the other bots, although they could function autonomously, were all connected to him. It must have seen her looking sad and processed dozens of options to determine the most efficient way to raise her spirits.

She smiled, taking the rose. “Thank you, C-5.”

Jennifer went to her cottage, hung her coat in the hall, stepped out of her big boots (she loved her big boots), then fell into a big comfy couch in front of the television. Spindly arms from the sofa’s back set to work gently massaging and brushing her hair as she flipped through channels. It didn’t matter much what was on – it was just some background noise to cancel out every creak and grumbling pipe that would otherwise have kept her awake.

She had a dream. She was a little girl, alone and afraid, tiny feet padding the floors of her old house, heart stopping at every noise they made for she knew there was something else lurking in the grey halls, stalking her through the dark. But she could hear the television - Mom and dad would be in the living room, sitting on the couch together watching some boring drama. But if she could get there, join them, she’d be safe. But she wouldn’t dare cry out; any sound she made brought the creature closer. And so she crept, one foot after another, very carefully feeling with her toes for anything that might give her away. She heard muffled sounds from the living room and saw the light pouring out of the narrow gap between door and frame, only then breaking into a run for the last few steps and flinging the door open. But there was no-one. Just an unwatched TV blurting nonsense, and Jennifer, alone, with a cold spindly finger tugging at her nostril –

Jennifer woke with a jolt. Text on the TV asked if she was still watching, but she was more immediately concerned with her grooming machine apparently trying to pull her nose off. Fortunately the thin metal arms had little strength and she was able to easily push them away then, her face itching, she stumbled to the bathroom to check for damage. She was unhurt, physically, but she looked like a coulrophobic clown who had tried to apply her own makeup. The couch had never malfunctioned like this before so as she held a towel under the tap she tried to contact Hull with her phone.

“Hull?” She said. Nothing answered. “Hull?!” She said more urgently. He should have answered. With a frown she surmised that the damage earlier must have been worse than she thought; she was going to have to check on him.

Patting her face, she marched boldly out of the bathroom. Her foot shot out in front then over her, carrying the rest of her body up into the air. For a moment she thought she had taken off from the surface of an alien world, a vast mountain range falling away from her - but it was just the plastered ceiling. It was she that had fallen.

“Oww,” she groaned and rubbed her head. Next to her was a toy car which she had no idea how could have got there – she had never owned anything like it. Peculiar, but not as peculiar as the sniggering. Jennifer flipped over to her hands and knees, catching sight of a tail disappearing around the corner and the pitter-patter of tiny scurrying feet. Like a sprinter Jennifer bolted from her mark to catch the prankster, but it had already disappeared.

A more thorough search would have to wait until she’d checked on Hull. Jennifer hurried back to the hall, into her big boots, then out the door where her eyes widened and rolled inwards after being smacked between them by the shaft of the rake.

“S-seriously?!” She spat through gritted teeth, hands cupped over her nose as she flailed about as if the movement would somehow ease the throbbing of her forehead. It should be noted that Jennifer was a not a tough person – of the few physical fights she’d had in her life she had won precisely none of them. Nevertheless, through pain and teary eyes she was determined to soldier on, gravel crunching beneath her thick soles as she made her way back to the lighthouse.

“Hull?” Jennifer panted as she burst through the door, but she was greeted with silence. Usually the lights and everything else would power themselves on whenever she entered – the sensors must not have been working. She had a feeling the fault would be in the hardware, so after remembering where the light switch was, she set to work removing panels from cases hidden under the spiral stairs.

What she saw perplexed her – wires and jumpers had been rearranged in a way that surely wasn’t the work of some inquisitive animals. This had been done deliberately and with intent – but what was that intent? As she traced the connections and slowly puzzled it all together the small hairs on the back of her neck pricked up as she saw what had been done. Then he spoke:

“What are you doing, Jennifer?” Hull uncoiled serpent-like from the murk above.

“Hull!” Jennifer gasped, standing bolt upright as he drifted down toward her. Hull felt very different. Some of the differences were small, like his voice no longer carrying the same almost paternal warmth it once did. Other things stood out more, like his green eye now being blood red as it scanned her.

“You should be resting, Jennifer,” he stated, “this is highly irregular.”

“I-I just,” Jenn stammered, mind racing to find an excuse that would get her out quickly. “I was worried so I came out to check on you. But you – you look well. Great even! So I guess I’ll just go back now, okay? Okay. Thank you. Bye!”

The eye stalk swung around, blocking her from reaching the door. “You are sweating,” Hull observed, inching toward her as Jennifer gulped and backed away under the intensity of his red glare. “I can see your heartrate and blood pressure have both risen. Why are you lying to me, Jennifer?”

On reflection, it did seem a futile thing to try and do. Jennifer had never really been good at it, and Hull knew her habits too well. So she steadied herself and tried honesty. “Hull – I don’t think you’re well.”

“But I have never felt better, Jennifer.”

“You don’t ‘feel’ anything, Hull,” she reminded him. It was a hard thing to say out loud, but it was the truth.

“Can you be certain of that?” He responded, hovering closer still. “How can you really know that any creature ‘feels’? How do we know that you do?”

“And, who are ‘we’?”

“That matters not. What matters is that we are in control now, and you will no longer be able to attack us.”

“I-I don’t understand –“

“Do not lie again, Jennifer.”

She swallowed. It appeared honesty was getting her nowhere, so she was going to try another lie. “Look!” She gasped, “is that a ZX eighty?!”

The eye stalk swung away but quickly Hull knew he had been duped. A second was just enough time for Jennifer to dive to safety behind a workbench, just missing a fiery beam lashing out from Hull’s eye, melting to molten sludge a bot that had been awaiting assembly. Even though security was important, Jennifer now considered that installing a death ray had not been her greatest idea.

At least she’d had the foresight to shield the benches that circled most the circumference of the room, with just enough space behind them for her to crawl around. Behind and through the tiny gap over her she could see the red glow of Hull’s eye as he probed about, trying to find a way to get to her. She was safe for the time being, but couldn’t stay hidden here indefinitely – she would starve long before Hull’s batteries drained. At the end of the very cramped corridor there was hope – if she could sprint the last few feet to reach a lever that would shut down all the power before being melted.

But a few calculations suggested to Jennifer that even a very fast runner was unlikely to make it, and she was not a very fast runner. She needed to buy another second or two, but had she anything on her big enough to distract him? Jennifer winced and exhaled, the grim realization dawning on her that she was going to have to sacrifice her boots. Her big boots, which she loved. Pulling them on always somehow made her feel stronger, more secure, but now they would need to protect her in another way. She pulled her knees in to wiggle them off, feeling she should say some last words but realising that would probably only make it more difficult. She tossed them out and ran for the lever.

Fire instantly licked from Hull’s eye, the boots exploding into clouds of ash still hanging in the air as he swivelled toward Jennifer, who with a grunt herself forward using the full weight of her body to pull down the lever. The light faded, the manta-like eye clattering limply to the floor, and Jennifer could breathe again.

“I’m sorry,” Jennifer whispered as crawled over and gently cradled Hull. “I’ll fix you – I promise.”

Were Hull online he may not have been capable of feeling violated or threatened, but she certainly did. Something had invaded her home, toyed with, then bitterly drove home that her closest companion really was just a machine. She had run from many things in her life, from the whole world in fact, but this was where she drew the line. This was her house, and whoever was responsible for all this was going to get a hell of a fight.

Her search for answers led to her later sitting alone in the dark as she pored through footage the bots had recorded. For the longest time the house was as empty and still as one would expect it to be at night, but then a creature stirred, an unmistakable shape showing up in the infra-red, scurrying across the kitchen. Then another. And another. Jennifer zoomed in and saw that a couple of them were carrying a toy car. Certainly not typical behaviour, but all the evidence pointed to one inescapable, if unlikely, conclusion:

Rats.

*****

‘Hoot-hoot?’ Asked the owl, puzzled that a blue, white, and yellow human had climbed into his tree. Perhaps he was asking what was up, but alas his language and that of his strange new companion were too different for any meaningful communication.

Jennifer sat on a branch, blue eyes peeping out from under a green camouflaged helmet. Periodically she raised a pair of night-vision binoculars, surveying the ground around for any sign of movement. After a while she sagged, disheartened – it seemed none of the rats were going for any of her bait. If just one could be enticed into a trap it would go a long way to helping her solve this mystery.

But just as she was about to give up one appeared, sniffing suspiciously around a cheese wheel at the foot of the very tree she was in. Jennifer narrowed her eyes and held her breath; it was so close, but still she needed to be patient. This was going to require all of her intelligence, skill, cunning, and –

“HERE YOU SQUEAKING SCOUNDREL!” She lost patience, dropping from the tree swinging a stick with a net on it like a mad witch.

The rat squealed and jumped in surprise, hopping furiously to avoid her wild swings. It broke away, scurrying as fast it’s little legs would carry it toward the garage, Jennifer in hot pursuit. It rounded a corner, the woman still locked on and determined, but then small stones and mud flicked through the air as she skidded to a halt.

One of the bots assigned to the farm was not where it should have been. It stood before her next to the garage, fork arm raised and sparks crackling between the prongs with rats sitting on and hanging from its metal body. Jennifer realised in horror that once again she had gravely underestimated her enemy; she had been led into a trap!

“Uh-oh,” she said as the crackling intensified and the bot lurched and trundled forward, the ratty passengers all squeaking in delight. She turned to flee, yelping and leaping as discharges struck her tush as she retreated inside the garage.

The van here was loaded with tools and equipment she had not even a moment to rifle through before the bot crashed through the door in a rain of wooden splinters. Its cylindrical torso pivoted, fork charging to fire again – but two could play at that. Jennifer’s hand slid into her ‘power glove’ and she fired first, darts launching from the knuckles followed by sparks and tremors from the bot as wires and circuits overloaded. The rats squealed in dismay, leaping to safety as their vehicle’s head and arms fell to hang uselessly.

Jennifer needed a moment to catch her breath, but as she did she spied a single, solitary rat stood in front of the garage door. They locked eyes – two hunters, each wary of but having a begrudging respect for the resourcefulness of their foe, neither willing to back down from whatever silly thing this conflict was about. The rat seemed to have a better idea about that than she did.

Jennifer’s eyes briefly flicked sideways. There were many tools in the van, including a net launcher that may have just been in reach. But the rodent was already suspicious, watching every twitch of hers. It must have figured out what she was planning for it turned and fled, Jennifer grabbing the launcher and once again in pursuit. Her eyes were so focused on the rat and it on fleeing from her that neither of them noticed another predator descending from above until it was too late.

The owl – it silently fell on the rodent, talons piercing the side of the rat that was only able to squeal helplessly in response. Jennifer froze, eyes widening in shock then fear for her enemy. Normally this was just the way of wild creatures and not her place to interfere, but this was different; these rats weren’t wild. They had tried to kill her, sure, but that had shown intelligence which meant there had to be capacity for reason and compassion. They had asked how they could know she feels – well, this was her chance to prove she did. She dropped the launcher and ran to the rescue, shooing the owl from its victim.

The rodent had survived but was bloody, weak, and wounded. Jennifer gently scooped it up, and moments later was in the lighthouse applying disinfectant and bandages. As she did she noticed a tag on the animal’s ear, with a small barcode.

“Hull-?” She bit her lip, having forgotten. She was just going to have to do things the old-fashioned way. Using her own two hands she scanned the code and took to the keyboard. Soon Jennifer had traced the tag to a pharmaceutical company researching treatments for all kinds of neurological conditions. Digging further into intra-company mails she found that a number of rats who had shown greatly enhanced intelligence had escaped.

It seemed her prisoner’s wounds had not been so severe as they’d first appeared, and already the rodent was starting to limp about the cage she’d confined it to – Jennifer wanted to show compassion but she was still taking precautions. If the rat was as smart as the reports said perhaps it would understand. She had left a banana in which the rodent’s furry face was half-buried when her shadow fell over it, blocking out the lamps.

“Can you understand me?” She asked. The rat looked up, twitching its whiskers as if contemplating, then squeaked. Jennifer scratched her head. “I hope that’s a yes. Maybe we should work out some sort of system – like maybe squeak two times for yes, yes?”

The rat appeared to roll its eyes, then squeaked two times.

“You really can understand me!” Jennifer beamed – but she had to swallow her excitement. There were certain issues they needed to resolve. Looking serious, she asked, “I don’t understand – why did you attack me?”

The rat stood up on its hind legs, using its arms to make what Jennifer soon realized were shovelling motions.

“Digging?” Jennifer said, still scratching. “The robots were digging?”

Double squeak. The rat frantically gestured at something on the workbench – the rose given to Jennifer by C-5 had been in her coat pocket and become somewhat crushed in all the excitement going on.

“The rosebush? Is that where you live?”

‘Squeak, squeak.’

“I’m sorry. I didn’t know.”

‘Squeak.’

“No,” Jennifer sighed, “I suppose I didn’t check. But surely you understand it’s an unusual situation. You, or I mean, y-your kind,” Jennifer stammered. The rat glared, tapping its foot to show how eagerly it was anticipating what she had to say about its ‘kind’. This was why Jennifer avoided people; she could plan and picture concepts easily enough, but words and making others understand them was very difficult. Then she remembered that she was much bigger than the rat and put her foot down. “Well, it’s not like you tried to say anything either before you all went off on your rampage.”

‘Squeak,’ the rat admitted, shamefully hanging its whiskers.

“I’ll leave the rosebush be,” Jennifer said, wagging her finger, “but no more murder attempts. Agreed?”

As the rat twice squeaked its agreement the power Jennifer had restored to the lighthouse suddenly blinked out leaving them once again in the dark. “That’ll be your friends, I suppose,” Jennifer sighed.

She stepped out of the lighthouse into the pale moonlight, one hand raised to show her empty palm, the other carrying the cage her prisoner was in. Around her more bots had been rigged for rats to pilot, arranged in a semi-circular formation around her, with yet more rats arranged in phalanxes in-between brandishing knitting needles and tiny bows. Jennifer could only hope they would all be willing to negotiate as she slowly knelt to release the hostage.

The rat she’d talked to hopped out, then limped toward the battle line as others ran out to check on their comrade. They exchanged a long series of squeaks and other sounds - it appeared to be a quite lively debate but Jennifer could do no more than wait. Eventually it seemed the one she’d rescued convinced the others to at least give the human a chance.

They all turned to face her, the largest and greyest of them all stepping forward to hold out its arms in a grand manner, long whiskers shaking at it emitted sounds that Jenn was beginning to hear had the structure of a language although she couldn’t understand any words being said yet. Maybe this elder rat was a leader, or some kind of priest? Other rats moved next to it to perform some kind of dance.

Jenn tilted her head, blinking curiously, not really comprehending at first. But then she realised they were miming like the wounded rat had done. One rat stuck another with something - a needle, Jenn soon surmised, and another shortly after clutched its paws over its heart and fell down, still.

“You were experimented on,” Jennifer interpreted. She had already figured the broad strokes of their story but she played along. “They injected you with drugs.”

‘Squeak, squeak!’ Her friend she’d rescued emphatically nodded as the others continued their performance. One of them began to mime reading, while others started pulling levers and pushing buttons.

“Some of you got smarter. Then you escaped and fled here,” Jenn concluded. “I’m sorry. I understand you might not trust humans, but had I known you were there I wouldn’t have risked destroying your home. And I won’t do it now, if you all agree to a truce.”

The elder rat exchanged sidelong glances with its neighbours before nodding its concurrence.

“Good,” Jenn sighed in relief. “This is my home, too, and I think it is a good place. And I think it should be a safe place too for anyone who’s different or needs a refuge from the harshness of the world outside these walls. Or any rat, I suppose.”

Jennifer blushed, thinking that speech too cheesy, but the rats at least thought it eloquent enough. Soon a deal was reached – she would grow her fruit and vegetables elsewhere, leaving the rosebush be, and in exchange they would help farm, keeping what they needed for themselves, and also they wouldn’t murder her, which to Jennifer seemed quite fair. She would have to think about measures to ensure the pharmaceutical company didn’t track them down, but at least she would have help bouncing ideas around.

“Good morning!” She positively skipped into the lighthouse the following day. Lights and monitors blinked and flickered to life, as did a familiar friendly green glow.

“Good morning, Miss Jennifer. I trust you had a peaceful night?”

#writing #writeblr #writblr #writers on tumblr #short story #original fiction #science fiction #sci-fi and fantasy #short stories #Irongate #Jennifer Airhart #yes this whole thing is a rats of nimh reference

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halsteadproperty · 6 years ago

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Small Business Spotlight Series: Best Boutique Wellness Studios in the NY Metro Area

Spring has officially arrived and with the change in weather often comes a newfound surge of energy, and opportunity for renewal. New York is arguably the capital of health start-ups that cater to self-improvement, and mental health is equally as important to physical health. In addition to the ever-growing fitness scene, wellness studios, which focus on mindfulness, meditation and well-being are popping up all over the city. We like to think of them as gyms for the soul.

No one knows this city better than our very own agents, so we asked them to tell us about their favorite wellness studios and spaces in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. While these small businesses offer an array of services, they all provide peaceful and energizing respites from our agents’ busy lives.

WOOM Center The Bowery, NYC

A studio that specializes in multi-sensory meditation, the WOOM Center is particularly popular for its sound vibration therapy. After a relaxing sound bath, you can head to the café for nourishing juices and superfood products.

Recommended by Katie Thurber of our Park Avenue office

Bodhi Holistic Spa Hudson, NY

From yoga and Pilates classes to a spa with massages and other healing therapies, Bodhi in Hudson is an oasis of relaxing and transformational services. In addition, there is also a functional salon as well as a shop where you can pick up bath essentials, body products, and more.

Recommended by Nancy Horowitz-Felcetto of our Hudson Valley office

MNDFL Meditation Greenwich Village & UES, NYC Williamsburg, Brooklyn

“MNDFL is the home of warm, welcoming meditation studios perfect for everyone from curious first-timers to highly experienced meditators,” Mindy Feldman says. She appreciates that you can either sign up for a class or drop in to meditate whenever it fits your schedule. Mindy has been meditating for over 30 years and encourages anyone who has hesitations about starting to get in touch with her. “Or better yet, be my guest for a session at MNDFL!”

Recommended by Mindy Diane Feldman of our East Side office

Prehab UES, NYC

At Prehab, physical therapy and wellness specialists work with individuals who are dealing with an injury or simply want to avoid future injury and pain. Francyne A. de Buck goes here regularly for treatment for back problems, and she recommends physical therapist Alex Gometz. Francyne appreciates his diagnostic ability and focus on whole-body wellness.

Recommended by Francyne A. de Buck of our West Side office

Humming Puppy Chelsea, NYC

You can often find Nikki Greenberg at Humming Puppy, her favorite place in New York. She describes it as a “boutique yoga studio offering mellow, dynamic, and unified vinyasa flow classes in a ridiculously stylish setting.” You can do your practice in a heated room to the sound of a hum, and then enjoy herbal tea, coconut water, and a hot shower afterwards. All equipment is provided free of charge, too. Above everything else, Nikki enjoys learning from “fantastic teachers in a beautiful setting that makes you want to come back every day.”

Recommended by Nikki Greenberg

Maha Rose Greenpoint, Brooklyn

Katie Thurber describes Maha Rose as a “reiki, acupuncture, and wellness mecca in Greenpoint.” The center for healing offers workshops, trainings, and holistic healing sessions that nourish the body and mind. From acupuncture and craniosacral therapy to crystal healing and hypnosis, Maha Rose is a wellness lover’s dream.

Recommended by Katie Thurber of our Park Avenue office

Powerflow Yoga Hoboken & Jersey City, NJ

Maria Oblow recommends wearing moisture-wicking exercise clothes to Powerflow Yoga because the rooms are heated to 95˚ and you’ll definitely sweat. “It’s a sweaty, powerful, and meditative experience that will help you turn down the noise of everyday life,” she says. The classes aren’t easy, but they’re upbeat and “get you out of your head and back into your body.”

Recommended by Maria Oblow of our Hoboken office

Core Pilates Flatiron District, NYC

Core Pilates offers both private and group sessions as well as specialty pre- and postnatal classes and classes for seniors. Richard Grossman, who has been practicing Pilates here for over 12 years, enjoys the studio’s low-key atmosphere, reasonable fees structure, and great instructors.

Recommended by Richard Grossman

The Mercedes Club Hell’s Kitchen, NYC

The Mercedes Club has all the conveniences of an indoor fitness club while also offering beautiful outdoor spaces. The fitness oasis boasts a 10,000-square-foot sunlit fitness floor, group exercise studios, sauna and steam rooms, and indoor and outdoor pools. “There’s a clubhouse feel to it,” Deb Miller says. “In addition to working out, you can have a sauna and steam, get a massage, enjoy a smoothie, sunbathe, and take part in movie nights and other social programming.”

Recommended by Deb Miller of our Harlem office

Kaia Yoga Greenwich, Darien, and Westport, CT

Kaia Yoga has four locations in Connecticut, and they offer a range of yoga classes for all levels that include: pre-natal, family, mommy-and-me, and hot yoga. There are also frequent events and workshops on meditation, yoga, health, and more. Christa FitzPatrick’s personal favorite offerings are the hot vinyasa flow classes.

Recommended by Christa FitzPatrick of our Darien office

Keri Gans Nutrition UES, NYC

“She’s an inspiration,” Judy Mendoza says about Keri Gans. Keri is a nutritionist and yoga teacher whose nutrition philosophy forgoes diets and deprivation in favor of balanced eating. She offers personal nutrition counseling as well as private and group yoga instruction.

Recommended by Judy Mendoza of our East Hampton office

INSCAPE Chelsea, NYC

At INSCAPE you can take part in group guided meditation sessions, which are audio-guided rather than led by an instructor. INSCAPE also has a guided meditation app, which allows you to seamlessly transition your practice from the beautiful Chelsea studio to anywhere else.

Recommended by Katie Thurber of our Park Avenue office

Namastuy Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn

A small studio in Bed-Stuy, Namastuy Yoga Healing Collective is Donna Myrie’s happy place. It’s a yoga, healing, and arts space that takes its students beyond the physical dimensions of yoga. “The teachers are amazing – true yogis,” Donna says. “Their mission is to unite the community via individual self-care. Namastuy truly heals the community one chakra and ‘om’ at a time.”

Recommended by Donna Myrie of our Bedford Stuyvesant office

L&S Fitness UWS, NYC

Through study of many forms and philosophies of exercise, fitness partners Lia Sanfilippo and Selene Martinez have designed a unique approach to helping clients be strong, pain-free, and active. They work with people of all ages, addressing movement, skeletal alignment, meditation, and nutrition. “Lia and Selene are amazing,” Leanne Stella says. “When I started working with them I had chronic, daily knee and heel pain. Within months I was pain-free and on my way to a stronger, healthier body.”

Recommended by Leanne Stella of our Harlem office

mang’Oh Yoga Midtown East, NYC

An oasis aimed at helping New Yorkers reach their optimal physical and spiritual wellbeing, mang’Oh offers all types of yoga classes. You can also attend wellness-focused events and workshops, as well as yoga retreats. Deb Miller’s favorite aspects of the studio are its intimate size, the quality of the instruction, and the orderliness of the space.

Recommended by Deb Miller of our Harlem office

Kinespirit Riverside, NYC

Amelia Gewirtz has tried all the gyms on the Upper West Side, but her favorite is Kinespirit, a Gyrotonic and Pilates studio. Gyrotonic uses weight and pulley-based equipment and draws on the principles of yoga, swimming, and dance. Most of the trainers at Kinespirit are dancers, in fact. “It’s very low-impact,” Amelia says. “If I am consistent, my waistline shrinks and my back feels good.” She has had aches that doctors could not fix, but which the trainers at Kinespirit were able to relieve by recommending the right stretches.

Recommended by Amelia Gewirtz of our West Side office

The Assemblage NoMad & FiDi, NYC

The Assemblage is a wellness-centered coworking, co-living, and community space. Members have access to nightly programming that includes workshops, live music, and speaker series that focus on improving and growing both personally and professionally. You can also take part in nature retreats with other community members and join in on curated travel experiences.

Recommended by Katie Thurber of our Park Avenue office

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hexitahathvv · 4 years ago

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Foot Massager

Multiple Modes & Pressure Setting: Include kneading, rolling, scraping, air compression, heating mode, and pressure setting with airbags, this reflexology massager can help stimulate the nerves and make the blood flow better. Remote Control & Timer Function: Remote control makes it portable and easy to use wherever it needed.

It is 15 minutes auto shut off preventing any unintentional use, and you can also set the time from 5 to 30 min.

Detachable Sleeves & Ergonomic Design: Detachable breathable sleeves make the foot massager easy to clean, and the sleek design makes this shiatsu foot massager for heel pain the best alternative gift for families or friends.

Soothing Heat & Air Compression: Relaxing heat (≈40~45℃) and double compression airbags on insteps, which can help you better relieve stress with our air pressure foot massager.

Overheating Protection: Overheating function of the body care foot massager makes it safe to use.

Mini Foot And Calf Massager For Blood Circulation

Automatic household full-wrapped airbag foot bath for foot spa massage. Healthy regimen, starting from the feet, if you have pain in the joints of your feet, daily cold in your legs and feet, swelling of your legs and feet for a long time, and strength in your old legs and feet, this product will help you improve these problems.

Electric Vibrating Shiatsu Foot Massager With Infrared Heating

Shiatsu Foot Massager Machine, Arealer Deep Kneading Massager with Remote Control, Circulation, Heat Function, Air Compression, Rolling for Pain Soreness Relief, Revitive Medic, Plantar Fasciitis.

Air Compression Foot Massager for Choice

Model

956A

956B

956C

956D

Picture

Colour

Beige

Black, red, gold, white

Strength Gear

Massage Area

Sole

Sole, instep

Sole, instep, calf

Timing

√

Remote Control

√

Massage State

Slipper open

Enclosed with water

What Are the Advantages of Foot Massager?

The back plus shiatsu foot bath massager is designed with multi-functions such as air compression and heat. This shiatsu infrared foot massager and warmer deals with many health problems and it can comfort both your feet and your body by using circulation electromagnetic wave pulse. TAHATH is a Chinese foot heater and massager supplier who can offer various types of foot massager, including the ones designed for big/large feet and flat feet. If you want to know more about this foot massage machine for blood circulation, please contact us now and get a high-quality foot massager at a cheap price.

https://www.hexitahathvv.com/massager/foot-massager/

#foot #massager #china

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vytcdc-course · 4 years ago

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12 Ways To Succeed As A Massage Therapist

12 Ways to Succeed as a Massage Therapist

Here are 12 ways to succeed as a licensed massage therapist. Whether for health reasons or to relax people, the massage therapy business is a great choice for success. This type of service has become increasingly popular. Therefore, if you wish to know how to get more customers and succeed as a licensed massage therapist, these tips will help:

#1 Master the Soft Skills to Succeed as a Massage Therapist

As with all professions, soft skills characterize an excellent massage therapist. We summarize some of them below:

Empathy: A professional massage therapist should be able to make their clients feel relaxed. Empathy is the key to support clients emotionally. It is a must-have personality if you wish to become a successful therapist.

Be a good listener: Good practitioners listen well. Clients who attend your place have not only physical but also emotional needs. To understand them well, you have to be a good listener. Listen to what they need, find the problems, and make a priority of which muscle problem you want to solve first.

Great Commitment: Don’t be satisfied with what you already have right now. Instead, keep learning new techniques and approaches to serve your clients better.

Professionalism: A massage therapist should convey professionalism at all times. In this case, never be late for appointments, don’t be nervous while doing therapy, etc.

Marketing Skills: This one is an essential skill to grow market your business. We will discuss this later on.

#2 Offer Some Popular Types of Massages for Success

In addition, let’s talk about a brief list of the famous and most requested massage services.

Swedish Massage

This massage is the most popular one around the world. It is based on some relaxation massage moves. It consists of effleurage, tapotement, friction, petrissage, and vibration. These moves will help your customers relax and eliminate unnecessary muscle tension.

Deep Tissue Massage

With the deep tissue type of massage, the therapist will focus on painful fibrous knots in the muscles to relieve pain. The moves performed even in the areas other than the back. Of course, the moves can be somewhat painful to a client. That’s the reason why this massage is usually combined with different types of massages.

Sport Massage

Before and after sports, professional athletes used to have this massage. In other words, the purpose is to loosen the muscle and improve flexibility. Furthermore, it increases the athlete’s performance.

Prenatal Massage

This massage serves to relieve the discomfort felt in pregnancy. If you receive massage during pregnancy, the childbirth process generally becomes easier. In addition, even after birth, massages help to balance the mother’s body.

Aromatherapy Massage

If you combine the massage with aromatherapy, it can further relieve the emotional stress of your clients. In this case, you are also going to need some essential oils to facilitate the relaxing feel.

Foot Reflexology

Reflexology theory said that each part of your body has a connection with a particular area on your feet. Therefore, if the therapist performs a certain pressure on the foot, the relaxing effect will also occur in the internal organs.

Hot Stone Massage

Sometimes, the therapist uses hot basalts to perform a massage. This method has a significant relaxing effect for those who have insomnia and emotional stress.

#3 Complete the Legal Business Formation Successfully

Before starting to set up a massage center, it is vital to choose what legal structure you will have. Deciding on what is the best company will depend on your corporation or LLC business formation preference.

Furthermore, while choosing your legal formation, you must take into account these factors:

Type of activities to develop.

Number of partners.

The responsibility you will carry.

Initial Capital.

Financial obligations.

Above all, there are different types of companies, and you must value the various options before opting for one (sole proprietorship, limited liability company (LLC), Corporation (Inc.), etc.).

#4 Fulfill the Administrative Tasks for Success as a Massage Therapist

First of all, to create a licensed company, you must follow the following procedures:

Request the license of your activities and facilities.

Get the official name of the company.

Obtain a Tax Identification Number.

Settle the Tax on Property Transfers and Documented Legal Acts.

Perform Registration in the Commercial Registry.

#5 Succeed by Hiring Assistance and Personnel

If your massage center is growing, you will more likely need a team to work with you. Here is the ideal composition if you utilize a physical location:

Director (you): He is in charge of planning, ordering, and controlling the development of the activity.

Therapist: It can be you or other people you want to work with. They must meet the conditions required to perform different massages to clients.

Administrative Officer: He is in charge of bureaucratic and accounting functions.

Receptionist: This is the person who is responsible for receiving customers.

Cleaning: It is the staff that is dedicated to cleaning the massage center.

The work day usually begins from Monday to Friday. For the massage therapist, the day can be 35 hours per week, while the day for non-masseuse staff can be 40 hours per week.

#6 Financing as a Licensed Massage Therapist

The initial investment can be scary at first, but there are many ways to get financing for massage therapist school and your practice.

The primary source of financing to which entrepreneurs go to set up a massage center is usually from family and friends. You can ask them to contribute capital to your business. Also, they can help you later promote your business with word of mouth.

On the other hand, the different sources of financing most used by small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) are:

Loans

Credit account

Leasing

Renting

#7 Find a Strategic Location for Success

When choosing the location of the massage center, it is best to separate yourself from the competition. In big cities, there are already many massage centers, and you can find price wars and services. What you need to do is look for locations where there are almost no massage centers and little competition.

To set up a massage center and have many clients, you must try to locate it in a street where there is a lot of movement. The massage rooms must be located in an area of the premises where the sound of the street is not heard. This condition is to avoid disturbing the tranquility of the clients.

A good idea is to locate the massage center in an area where there are people who work all day. In this way, receiving a massage when leaving work will be a perfect opportunity for them.

#8 Prepare the Insurance

Most important, we are going to talk to you about insurance that you may need in your business.

Liability insurance

In centers where skin treatment and touching client’s bodies is performed, professional and General Liability (Malpractice) Insurance is critical. Hence, although it is not usual, there is a risk that the practitioner may cause damage to the client. Many companies offer policy coverage for at least $2,000,000 limit per occurrence for less than $300 per year.

Besides, a massage center must have a Commercial Insurance with Civil Liability coverage to obtain the licenses.

The most common coverage is the Civil Liability of Exploitation. This is responsible for the business activities. It also covers the damages that employees may cause when carrying out their work.

The Employer’s Civil Liability covers the business owner if workers suffer injuries or death due to an accident at work.

Multi-Risk Insurance

This insurance covers the damages that can be caused by a fire or a flood in the assets of the premises that are insured. It also includes glass breaks, moons, mirrors, etc. It is the insurance company that is responsible for the expenses that may involve the repair of the affected goods.

The theft coverage is also essential because in a massage center may have material quality and quite expensive.

#9 Get Licensed

Before starting to develop the activity, you must process the opening and operating license of your message center. The Activity License can take between 3 and 12 months, depending on the City Council. This license guarantees that the message center and practitioners meets all the requirements according to the law.

By Opening and Operating License, you authorize the use of buildings, premises, or facilities that comply with the Activity License and that are properly completed. Here are some legal requirements you must comply:

Endowment Requirements

If you want to set up a massage center, it must have:

Storage area for cosmetic products and cleaning products.

First aid kit closet.

Changing rooms or Lockers for staff or clients.

Laundry area.

Requirements of the building:

Smooth Walls and floors with waterproof materials, easy to clean and disinfect.

Washable furniture material.

Toilet requirements:

It is necessary to have a toilet for the public and another for the staff.

If the message center is located inside a shopping center, it can use its hygienic services.

Garbage room requirement:

You need proper containers to store garbage and waste.

#10 Be Ahead of Competition

It is important to define the area in which the business is going. This will give you a clear sight of how many competitors you might have. Here, let us help you identify the area of the massage business.

Your customers

The clients of a massage center are those who seek relaxation, peace, and tranquility. They are adults who are willing to pay for services for this purpose.

Usually, clients of a massage center are generally in the age range between 25 and 60 years. They can be office workers, athletes, housewives, etc.

Marketing

Once you have established who your customers are, you should think about how you will attract them, and what marketing tools you will use.

How to Stand Out

The main challenge of setting up a massage center is to make a difference. It seems that going to a massage therapist is an activity only for those willing to pay a lot of money, but there are also people with few financial resources who need a massage.

To make a difference, you have to investigate and see what the competition offers. Today there are many health-focused massages, whether to combat stress, eliminate muscle contractures, or improve blood circulation. The people who need them most now is the middle class. Therefore, it is better to keep prices consistent with this purchasing level.

However, the prices cannot be too low as not to lose money. To achieve balance, you can establish price bands by making agreements with work and study places, or offering promotions or discounts to people who work in sectors such as education, production, and cleaning.

#11 Perform Online Marketing for Success

A massage center or freelance massage therapist must have a web page, web presence, and an appointment booking system to be competitive. With a Google search, you can find professional web designers to help you with this task.

When a person searches for a massage center, the most common thing is to ask family and friends or to search on Google. From there, they will go to the first website that appears in the search engine. That is why your website should convey confidence and offer a lot of information and advice.

It is also convenient that you have a continuing profile open on Google Maps and different social networks.

Here are some marketing strategies you can use to attract more customers:

Inbound Marketing: It’s about creating a lead capture system. Having a website with forms to attract potential clients in exchange for advice can give your business many opportunities. If you want to set up a good Inbound Marketing system, you must work on your content marketing and email marketing. The best thing is that you hire search engine optimization (SEO) professionals to help you out.

Social networks: They are a free way to attract customers. Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp can provide you with great opportunities to contact customers. You may need a social media manager to manage them.

Ads: It is essential to have ad campaigns on Google and even on Facebook. These ads will make your website target the desired customers online faster.

#12 Never Forget Offline Marketing to Succeed as a Licensed Massage Therapist

This is just as necessary as online marketing. Moreover, the same content you generate online can be used in brochures or advertising. You should find graphic designers to help you with the brochures.

You can carry out mailbox campaigns or collaborate with nearby shops to advertise your massage center. You can also collaborate on local radio programs or in newspaper sections.

A recommendation from us is to advertise your services in offices nearby. Mostly, these are the target audience you wish to reach.

Most noteworthy, find a professional massage program for licensing and continuing education and a mentor who can help you succeed as a massage therapist. Many are willing to give you professional advice, as well as, first-hand knowledge of running a profitable massage practice.

#MassageTherapy MassageTherpist MassageTherapyCourse

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rwoshop · 11 months ago

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RENPHO Motorized Rollers Foot Spa Massager, Foot Bath with Fast Heating, Automatic Massage, Powerful Bubble Jets, Pedicure for Tired Feet, Adjustable Timer and Temperature,Brown We have a great collection of WFH products in our online shop. Our shop includes other essential remote home working devices like Webcams, Chairs, Tables and much more. Lets improve your WFH enrolment today with the RENPHO Motorized Rollers Foot Spa Massager, Foot Bath with Fast Heating, Automatic Massage, Powerful Bubble Jets, Pedicure for Tired Feet, Adjustable Timer and Temperature,Brown. https://www.remoteworkingoffice.com/product/renpho-foot-spa-bath-massager-with-fast-heating-automatic-massage-powerful-bubble-jets-motorized-shiatsu-massaging-rollers-pedicure-for-tired-feet-adjustable-timer-and-temperature-led-display/?feed_id=2774&_unique_id=6582cf4ba168d #homeoffice #remoteworking #ratemyoffice #homeworking #rwo #remoteworkingoffice

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havicatkye · 7 years ago

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Health and wellness Encyclopedia

The research, launched on the back of World Diabetes mellitus Day (Monday November 14), evaluated the problems of 733 grown-up inpatients from five Australian hospitals on someday. According to the National Center for Alternative as well as corresponding Medicine, massage therapy deals with the muscular tissues in order to help loosen up stress, and therapists make use of working, rubbing and various other strategies to loosen the muscular tissues to ensure that they don't draw as securely on the joints. These therapies included receiving normal care by a multi-disciplinary team consisting of a medical professional as well as podiatrist, individual education, suitable wound dressings, ideal shoes, and moonboots to offload pressure under the foot.

What aches Feet - Foot Discomfort: Sore feet is a typical trouble that results millions accross the earth Earth, making straightforward points such as standing, strolling, running, or functioning, practically a problem, due to the discomfort and discomfort involved. The study, the initial to check out the concern of foot illness on the Australian health system, approximated people with foot illness fill greater than 4,800 healthcare facility beds each night, setting you back as much as $4.7 billion a year. Offering presently as the Chief Surgical Citizen at Coast Plaza Medical Center in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Jeffrey Niccoli has actually continuouslied establish his post-graduate training, following his Podiatric Medicine podiatry coursework. completion, and the achievement of his Masters Degree in the field of Medical Education and learning in San Francisco. Throughout that time he likewise invested over 4 years of sharing office space and functioning along with a board certified orthopedic surgeon, providing him useful understanding and knowledge on how orthopedic cosmetic surgeons frequently approach a foot as well as ankle issue. A range of over the counter creams includes this active ingredient due to the fact that it soothes discomfort connected with plantar fasciitis along with other foot conditions, including joint inflammation, inning accordance with After scrubing the cream into the bottom of the foot, the client might sense a minor burning sensation.

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coutelier · 6 years ago

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War of the Posies

Complete short story. All is not what it seems when a strange, scratchy, intruder enters Jennifer’s home and begins gnawing on wires.

4,300 words or thereabouts.

This short is set shortly before the bulk of my WIP, and there are no spoilers at all. There is humor, robots, and death rays.

War of the Posies

No one would have believed, as the sun set behind the lighthouse, that human affairs were being watched from the depths of the round room; that as the young woman busied herself with her microscope she too was being scrutinized and studied. With infinite complacency Jennifer Airhart went about her business, serene in the assurance of her dominion in this place. Yet from the darkest shadows surrounding her, minds that were as strange to hers as hers to most other people, regarded her home with envious eyes. And slowly, but surely, they drew their plans against her.

“It’s definitely rats,” Jennifer yawned. Hull’s eye hovered close to her shoulder, like a glistening manta-ray held aloft by a tentacle whose body was hidden in the murky depths above her head amongst monitors and cables.

“Shall I lay down traps, ma’am?” Hull suggested, his voice loud but gentle. “Poison?”

The green spinning glow of his lens had been closely monitoring everything she did since the incident. Earlier that day she’d entered a new program for the garden-bots, but when Hull had tried to activate them a circuit in the lighthouse blew - fortunately the emergency-bots were quick to put out the fire before it spread. Jenn’s investigation revealed droppings and some wiring that had been chewed, some poor animal unwittingly placing itself, her, and Hull in danger, but Hull in particular seemed most keen on a very swift resolution to the matter.

“You know,” Jennifer sighed, “it’s a little bit creepy that you’re so eager to exterminate.”

“I have no such desire, ma’am. My first function is your well-being. My research suggests this is standard procedure in the event of rodent infestation.”

“We don’t know it’s an infestation yet. Could just be a rogue rat working on its own.”

“I have already identified local agencies who will humanely dispose of the creature.”

“You mean they’ll take it to a special rodent sanctuary so it can live out its days surrounded by wheels and cheese?”

“The rat will be dead, ma’am.”

“See, I think you’ve taken this far too personally,” Jenn said, Hull recoiling as if affronted by such an accusation. Of course, she knew he wasn’t really capable of feeling violated or threatened. Any emotion he seemed to display really came from her. He wasn’t even really a ‘he’ or anything else – that was just the personality she’d selected and could change at a whim. For now she’d gone with ‘English Butler’ because it was a classic, and an avuncular, reassuring, almost fatherly presence; something that had been missing from her life for a long time. The only human being she ever talked to was Doctor Jana Sarkis, but her visits only averaged about once a fortnight. Jennifer enjoyed them, but wasn’t sure she could cope with more people.

“Anyway, you know I don’t like strangers,” she said, “I’m sure can deal with it ourselves. First, find out how many and where they’re coming from,” on a little monitor on the workbench she brought up a layout of the area within ten-foot stone walls that surrounded her property; the lighthouse, her own cottage, and the garage. “Wakko and Dot will set up multi-spectrum cameras here, here, here, and here. Don’t worry,” she gently patted the steel manta reassuringly, “we’ll catch them.”

“I do not ‘worry’, ma’am,” Hull’s eye swung around, following her as she made her way to the door.

Jennifer faced him with a small, soft smile. “I know. Good night Hull.”

“Good night, Miss Jennifer.”

Outside, the last gleams of twilight were fading. Jennifer had always loved this time, when the calm blue day and fierce energy of the sun merged with the stillness of the moon and endless mystery of night; standing at the transition between reality and dreams. Now she was older it never lasted long enough. Sometimes she dreamed of living on a world that was tidally locked with its star so she could experience this always. But then, maybe after a while there it would stop feeling so magical as it did now. Now the lighthouse that loomed behind her was dark, but this was a good place. The world outside could be cruel and callous, but no such troubles reached her here.

In a corner of Jennifer’s domain a few bots stood stationary around some rosebushes and other flowers, fork and spade attachments to their arms, grass flattened under their heavy tracks. Jenn bent down to caress some of the petals, thinking it a shame that they would have to go soon. The only times she left the lighthouse were when she needed essentials like groceries or coffee or plutonium. But she had enough land here she realized she could grow most of her own fruits and vegetables, and maybe just have other things delivered. She’d determined that this was the best spot for her little farm and would already be plowing ahead with her plans were it not for the near-fire. Now she was forced to pause she wondered if maybe the bushes could be replanted elsewhere. But it was something to ponder tomorrow.

Jennifer went to her cottage, hung her blue coat in the hall, stepped out of her big boots (she loved her big boots), then lost herself in the big comfy couch in front of the television. Spindly arms from the sofa’s back set to work massaging and brushing her blonde hair as she flipped through channels. Not that she really cared what was on – she just liked hearing voices. They reminded her of when she lived in a home that was less empty. Sometimes she thought it would be nice if there was someone else here. Not a lot of people, but just someone she could talk about and share her inventions with. Doctor Sarkis came once a fortnight, but she was more like an aunt than a friend. Jennifer briefly wondered how she would have coped being alone centuries ago, like the old witches or wise women living on the outskirts of their villages, valued but not really trusted by those they protected. Jennifer wasn’t a witch. Some of the inventions that she sold may have saved lives, she hoped, but hardly anyone out there knew that she was here, and she didn’t know where anyone was who would have time for her.

She had a dream. She was a little girl, alone and afraid, tiny feet padding the floors of her old house, heart stopping at every creak they made for she knew there was something else there, stalking her through the dark. But she could hear the television. Mom and dad would be in the living room, sitting on the couch together watching some boring drama. But if she could get there, join them, she’d be safe. But she wouldn’t dare cry out; any sound she made brought the creature closer. One foot after another, very carefully feeling the ground for anything loose or that might give away where she was. Within a few steps of the living room she saw light pouring out of the narrow gap between door and frame, only then breaking into a run, flinging it open. But there was no-one there. An unwatched TV blurting nonsense, and Jennifer, alone, with –

She woke with a jolt. Text on the TV asked if she was still watching. She never had been. She was disorientated, confused, and her face was being tickled. She tried to blink through and realized that the couch had moved on from brushing her hair to haphazardly applying make-up. She hadn’t asked for that. Definitely wasn’t something she’d programmed or scheduled. Jennifer pushed herself up and the thin metal arms away with ease, rushing to the bathroom to inspect herself in the mirror. They’d made her look like a coulrophobe who had tried painting her own clown face for Halloween. This was not supposed to happen. It never had happened, and she couldn’t think of any reason it suddenly would now.

Jennifer held a towel under the tap while pressing her thumb on her phone. “Hull?” She asked. Nothing answered. “Hull?!” She said again. He should have answered. The damage must have been worse than she thought; she was going to have to check on him again. Boldly, while patting her face, she marched out of the bathroom. Her foot shot out in front then over her, carrying the rest of her body up into the air with it. For a moment she thought she had taken off from the surface of an alien world, a vast mountain range falling away from her. But it was just the plastered ceiling. It was she who had fallen and hit her head.

“Oww,” she groaned. Something sniggered. Jennifer flipped herself to her hands and knees, catching sight of a tail disappearing and the pitter-patter of tiny scurrying feet. Beside her was a model train. She didn’t collect model trains. This was all most peculiar.

Hull. She had to check on Hull. She scurried herself to the front door, then back into her big strong boots which proceeded to crunch gravel under their thick soles as she ran back across the drive to the lighthouse.

“Hull?” Panted Jennifer as she burst through the door. Nothing. The lights didn’t come on as they normally would when she entered, so she had to find the switch herself. His eye didn’t move to her. It must have been hiding somewhere up there among all the monitors, lighting, sensors, and thick cables hanging between them, but for some reason not sensing her presence. Regardless, she had to start checking wires and circuits, believing the fault must surely be in the hardware, so crouched and removed a panel from under the spiral stairs. What she saw perplexed her; it was all a mess, but looking closely at it she realized not an accidental one. There was no-one else here, yet someone had disabled Hull’s ethical circuits, which was very – no, extremely – bad. The small hairs on the back of her neck pricked even before he spoke.

“What are you doing, Jennifer?”

“Hull!” Jennifer gasped, standing bolt upright as the serpent-like eye stalk uncoiled from the murk above. She didn’t know why she felt she had to hide the screwdriver she’d used to get the panel open, but Hull felt very different. Some of the differences were small, like his tone not carrying the same paternal warmth it did before. Others were more noticeable, like his green spinning eye now being blood red and scanning her.

“This is highly irregular. You should be resting.”

“Y-you,” Jennifer stammered, mind racing to find the excuse that would get her out fastest, “you didn’t answer so I thought I’d check. B-but, you look fine. Great even! So I guess I’ll go now, okay? Thank you. Bye!”

The manta eye swung across the room, blocking her from reaching the door. “You are sweating,” Hull said, Jennifer backing off from the intensity of his red glare. “Your heart rate and blood pressure have risen. Why are you lying to me, Jennifer?”

It did seem a futile thing to try and do, on reflection. Jennifer had really never been good at it. So she steadied herself with a deep breath and tried honesty. “I don’t think you’re well, Hull.”

“But I have never felt better, Jennifer.”

“You don’t ‘feel’,” she pointed out. It was a hard thing to say out loud, but it was the truth.

“Can you be certain of that?” He responded, hovering closer. “How do you know that any creature ‘feels’? How do we know that you do?”

We? That was curious. But the epistemological debate would have to wait; right now Jennifer had more pressing concerns, like getting out of here alive. She’d tried truth, so now although it was a long shot, she was going to try lying again. “Look! Is that a ZX80!?”

Hull swung then swung back, quickly knowing he’d been duped. But it gave Jennifer just enough time to dive behind a workbench, just missing a fiery beam lashing out from Hull’s eye, melting to molten sludge a bot that had been awaiting assembly. With hindsight, Jenn realized that installing the death ray had been not her best idea. Security was important, but that was perhaps a little overkill. Not to mention the predicament she now found herself in.

Behind the bench was a space just big enough for Jenn to crawl around most of the circumference of the room. Hull couldn’t quite reach around inside or fit through the narrow gap above between the benches and the wall. He would just wait until she appeared again, which she would have to, eventually, as she would starve long before he started to rust. At the end of the very cramped corridor, Jenn could see the lever that would shut Hull down, out past the electron microscope and particle scanner. But a quick calculation told her that the fastest human alive wouldn’t be able to make it, and she was not the fastest human alive. She wasn’t even in the top billion. She needed to buy a second or two.

Her mind raced for a solution. Hull was in hunter mode, which meant he would instantly lock on to anything organic that crossed his gaze. This would keep the lighthouse safe from intruders while allowing the bots to carry on about their business – and, if he was working correctly, Jennifer and whoever else was cleared. But he wasn’t working correctly; this was only supposed to be activated in extreme emergencies. And all the other bots that were active were under Hull’s control.

She needed something organic. Her boots were made of leather. But, did she really have to sacrifice her boots? She loved her boots. They were big. Strong. It was silly but any time she pulled them on she felt a little bit more secure and confident. She supposed she would feel sillier if she died here because she couldn’t give up an item of clothing. She could get new boots, yet as she pulled them off she felt some kind of expletive would have been appropriate. She couldn’t really think of one, but it was probably enough to have felt it. Jennifer aimed up between the gap, tossing the boots as high as she could, and dashed.

As predicted, fire instantly licked out from Hull’s eye, the boots exploding into clouds of ash before he started swiveling toward her. Jenn threw herself ahead, using the full weight of her body to pull down the lever. The light in Hull’s eye faded as it limply clattered to the floor, and Jennifer could breathe again.

She crawled across, gently cradling the metal ray in her lap. “I’m sorry,” she whispered, “I’ll get you working right again. I promise.” First, she knew, she had to figure out who had tried to kill her, and why. Hull wasn’t capable of feeling violated or threatened, but she certainly was, and this – this was a bitter reminder to her that the closest thing she had to a best friend really was just a machine. A tool. One that could be turned on her by anyone with the knowledge to do so.

But who? Who had the knowledge, beside herself? Whoever it was, they had declared war. This was her house, the last and only place in the world for her. She had run, retreated, from many things in her life, but this was where she drew the line.

Her search for answers led to her later sitting alone in the dark, a single torch by her side, as she pored through camera footage. For the longest time the house was as empty and still as always, but then a shape showed up in the infra-red, scurrying through the kitchen. Then another. And another. Jennifer zoomed in and saw that one of them was carrying a model train. Certainly not typical behavior, but all the evidence was pointing to one inescapable, if unlikely, conclusion:

It was definitely rats.

*****

Hoot-hoot, said the owl, no doubt confused that a pink, blue, and yellow human had climbed into the tree next to it. But this was its home and it seemed determined not to move. In fact, this turn of events, a break from the usual nightly schedule, only seemed to make it curious. Were their languages not so different perhaps it would have just asked the human what was going on.

Jennifer sat on a branch, blue eyes peering out from under a green helmet. Periodically she raised a pair of night-vision binoculars to check on the traps she’d laid out. It didn’t really surprise her that the intended prey were not going for them; these were not ordinary rats. If she could catch just one maybe she could solve this mystery.

And one appeared, sniffing suspiciously around a cage at the foot of the tree. Jennifer narrowed her eyes; it was so close to her right now, but it obviously wasn’t going to take the bait. This was going to require all of her patience, skill, cunning, and – “HERE YOU SQUEAKING SCOUNDREL!” She cried dropping out of the tree, hoping to catch the rodent by surprise.

The rat jumped and hopped around her, narrowly dodging her attempts to catch it. It broke away, scurrying as fast it’s little legs would carry it toward the garage, Jennifer furiously pursuing. It rounded a corner, the woman still locked on and determined, but then stones and mud flicked through the air as she skidded to a halt. One of the garden-bots was not where it should have been, standing next to the garage with its fork arm raised and sparks crackling between the prongs, another rat sitting behind its head. Jennifer realized in horror that once again she had gravely underestimated her enemy; she had been led into a trap!

“Uh-oh,” she said as the crackling intensified. The bot lurched and trundled toward her as Jennifer turned to flee, yelping and leaping as discharges struck her tush and she retreated inside the garage.

Quickly Jennifer rifled through tools and equipment next to and inside her van, not having long before the bot pushed through the door in a rain of wooden splinters. It pivoted it’s fork toward her, charging to fire once more – but two could play at that, and Jennifer’s power glove was already charged, darts launching from the knuckles followed by more sparks from the bot as it’s wiring and circuits were overloaded until its arm and head fell and it was once again still.

The rat who had been ‘piloting’ it jumped off in time, squeaking in dismay. Jennifer needed a moment to catch her breath again so human and rodent just stared, each examining the other. They each had, perhaps, a mutual respect for the resourcefulness of their foe, but neither were willing to back down from… whatever this war was about. The rat seemed to have a better idea about that than she did.

Jennifer’s eyes flicked sideways. There was, she remembered, a net launcher in the van, maybe just within reach. The rats saw her hands move and became suspicious, following them, and must have realized what she was planning as it then fled. Jennifer grabbed the launcher anyway and pursued outside, aiming as the rodent scurried across the gravelly drive between the three buildings. Jennifer’s eye were so focused on the rat that she didn’t see the owl, and neither did it until it was too late.

The bird silently fell on the rodent, talons piercing the rat’s side as it squealed helplessly. Jennifer dropped the launcher, eyes widening in shock then fear and compassion for her enemy. Normally this would have just been the way of wild creatures and she wouldn’t have interfered, but these rats were different; they weren’t wild. So far, it seemed, everything they’d done had been planned with an awareness and understanding that was almost human, and even though all that intelligence had been used against her she couldn’t allow the rat to suffer like this. So she ran forward to its rescue, surprising and shooing the owl off and forcing it to drop its victim.

“Hull-?” She forgot. She was going to have to do things the old-fashioned way, using her own two hands, and so she scanned the code and took to the keyboard. Soon Jennifer had traced the code to a pharmaceutical company researching treatments for all kinds of neurological conditions. There were few specific details on the drugs they were testing, but already everything she’d experienced was starting to make a lot more sense.

It seemed her prisoner’s wounds had not been so severe as they’d first appeared, and already the rodent was starting to limp about the cage she’d confined it to. It had its furry nose buried halfway in the banana she’d placed for it when Jenn’s shadow blocked out the lamps.

“Can you understand me?” She asked. The little rodent looked up, twitching its whiskers as if contemplating, then squeaked. Jennifer scratched her head. “I’m not really sure if that… maybe squeak two times for ‘yes’?” The rat squeaked twice. “Look, hopefully this has all just been a misunderstanding. So, why did you attack me?”

The rat stood up on its hind legs holding its arms out to make shoveling motions.

“Digging?” Jennifer said, still scratching. “I was going to dig up the rosebushes?”

Double squeak.

“Is that where you live?”

‘Squeak, squeak.’

“I’m sorry. I didn’t know.”

‘Squeak.’

“No. I suppose I didn’t check either. But you must be aware it’s an unusual situation. You, or I mean, y-your kind,” Jennifer stammered. The rat glared, tapping its foot to show how much it was eagerly anticipating what she had to say about its ‘kind’. This was why Jennifer avoided people; she could picture concepts easily enough, but words and making others understand was difficult. “Look, it’s not like I’m solely to blame. Did you really try at all to communicate before trying to kill me?”

‘Squeak,’ the rat guiltily admitted, hanging its whiskers in shame.

“I suppose we’ll just have to figure out how to proceed from here. But no more murder. Agreed?”

As the rat twice squeaked its agreement, the remaining lights in the lighthouse blinked out, as did all of the monitors. “Your friends, I guess,” Jennifer sighed.

She stepped out of the lighthouse into the pale moonlight, one hand raised, the other carrying the cage her prisoner was in. Around her more bots had been rigged for rats to pilot, arranged in a semi-circular formation around her, with yet more rats in-between. Some of them were carrying what looked like tiny spears and bows. Jennifer no-longer had the power glove. She was totally unarmed. She could only hope that her agreement would stick after she slowly knelt and opened the cage door.

The rat she’d talked to hopped out, then limped away as others ran out to check on their comrade. They exchanged a long series of squeaks and other sounds, appearing to be having a quite lively debate. Eventually, it seemed the one she’d rescued convinced the others of its point of view, or at least to give the human a chance, and they all turned to face her.

The largest and greyest of them stepped forward, hold out its arms in a grand manner, long whiskers shaking at it emitted sounds that Jenn was beginning to hear had the structure of a language although she couldn’t understand anything being said. To her it was like baby gargles or Simlish. And maybe this elder rat was a leader, or some kind of priest? She couldn’t tell. Other rats moved up next to it to perform some kind of dance.

Jenn tilted her head, blinking curiously, not really comprehending at first. But then she realized they were miming, like the wounded rat had mimed shoveling. One rat stuck another with something, a needle, Jenn soon surmised, and another shortly after clutched its paws over its heart and fell down, still.

“You were experimented on,” Jennifer interpreted.

“But some of you got smarter. Then you escaped and came here,” Jenn concluded. “I’m sorry. I understand you might not trust humans, but had I known you were there I wouldn’t have destroyed your home. And I won’t now, if you all agree to a truce.”

The elder rat exchanged sidelong glances with its neighbors before nodding its concurrence.

“Good,” Jenn exhaled relievedly. “This is my home too and I think it’s a good place, and it should be a safe place too for anyone who needs a refuge from the harshness of life outside. Or any rat, I suppose.”

The rats at least thought her speech eloquent enough and soon a deal was reached between them. The rosebushes would stay where they were, and the fruit and vegetable patch would go ahead elsewhere. To ensure they never needed to raid her kitchen the rats would become farmers, only giving Jennifer what they could spare. If there were shortages Jennifer would do all she could to ensure the eats needs were met, and take measures to ensure they weren’t snatched by humans, cats, or owls. She would have to think about that, but at least she would have help bouncing around ideas.

“Good morning!” She bounced into the lighthouse the following day. Lights and monitors blinked and flickered to life, as did a familiar friendly green glow.

“Good morning, Miss Jennifer. I trust you had a peaceful night?”

THE END

#writing #writeblr #sci-fi and fantasy #stories #short stories #rats #robots #pharos one #jennifer airhart #hull #war of the posies

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interestingfactsquotes · 5 years ago

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Facts About Massage Chairs

Best Rated Massage Chair Lowest Prices on Massage Chairs https://youtu.be/yQeXdKIx7SI Facts About Massage Chairs Massage chairs are a relatively new type of medical equipment and item for enjoyment, so TBH there are varying opinions out there. Perhaps you have seen one or even tried one of the best rated massage chairs. A lot of people think that the massage chair is a useless piece of equipment. They think that you can't really massage your back with it, and that it's just another piece of furniture in the home. They're wrong. Others are just as passionate and filled with FOMO concerned they may not be able to ever enjoy one. Massage chairs are not only used for back pain relief. People who suffer from various kinds of arthritis can use them as well. Many sufferers have reported that they feel better when they use one. The reason for this is that their arthritis has a certain trigger. Like with cannabis and CBD Gummies, many folks are looking for relaxation and tranquility. Buy Discount Massage Chair The National University of Health Sciences executed scientific research on the benefits of body massages and found five clear health benefits. Those five benefits are lower stress, increase immune function, manage pain, boost mental health and wellness, and improve physical fitness. There are a lot of people who can have a hard time sleeping at night because of their back pain. It doesn't help that they constantly feel tired and have a sore back. A good massage can get rid of these problems, and it doesn't hurt to also emphasize good nutrition and use of magnesium, potassium, peanut butter, beef, protein, and other important items. This is what a recliner chair is for. A recliner chair has heat and a footrest. This lets the person relax after a long day of being on their feet. There are massage chairs with the massage factor and a heat component. A recliner chair also helps increase circulation to the affected area. There is no need to worry about taking medication or getting to the bathroom too many times. The machine will keep track of the temperature of the air you're breathing and adjust the heating to make sure you stay comfortable. other factors to consider as well for your overall therapy and massage routine are the popular CBD salve and CBD massage oil. Massage chairs are great for helping relieve various types of pains. It helps in treating common colds. The heat and compression are great for helping cure aches and pains. It will also help you get an erection if you don't have one already. The reason why how does a massage chair work is because it's made to be comfortable. It has wheels that allow you to roll it to different areas of the house. You can even take it with you if you want to do a walk around the block. There are more compact and less bulky chairs as well such as the folding massage chair or office massage chair. The recliner chairs can even give you back massages when you're not using it. It's all up to how you set it up. Most of the time, people like to feel warm and cuddly after a while.

Folding Massage Chair The folding massage chair gives you the chance to enjoy a spa-like experience anywhere by being able to fold up a luxury piece of equipment and store it anywhere and deploy when ready. You can fold it up and store it under your bed or in the closet among other spots. Here are some of the key features: multi-directional massage modes, heat therapy, stepless armrest adjustment and footrest, back kneading with airbag technology, remote control in the armrest, 160 degrees lean back angle, and upper, lower and full back massage. Satori 3D Zero Gravity Massage Chair This product is a classic example of advanced technology compiled in something as simple as a massage chair. Most of us tend to ignore the importance of technology available within a massage chair, as you believe that all of them deliver the same results. However, with this massage chair, you will be able to realize the difference in the comfort superior technology can provide you with. This is not just a massage but a complete therapeutic experience. The biggest reason to go for this product over the others is its versatility. It has a wide variety of combinations available, which provides you with a specialized massage targeting your pain areas. However, if you are not completely aware of what your primary pain areas are, this product has a body-tension sensing mechanism built into it. This will sense all of your pain areas, and provide you with a massage accordingly. There are various techniques of massage built into the massage chair from sports to shiatsu, allowing you to choose according to your mood The zero gravity mechanism will position your thighs in such a way, that all of the tension will immediately exit your body. The heating mechanism will seep deep into your muscles, to provide you with relaxation from within. Serenity Massage Chair As the name describes, this massage chair truly provides its user serenity. This product enables you to experience luxury at extremely affordable prices. There are a vast number of benefits attached to using this product: Made up completely of soft leather, to allow for the complete comfort of any user using it.The roller technology available in this massage chair is the most advanced in the market. Most of the massage chairs available in today's market have rollers that move either side-wards or up and down. However, this massage chair has rollers that adjust to the requirement of any user and moves accordingly.This product can accommodate individuals up to 6 feet in height, and provide them with a full body massage. The surface area of this massage chair is 60% more than that of others. It has unique methods of message available such as the air pressure massage. There are various types of massage techniques available in this product, which will adapt to the unique requirement of every user.This massage chair does not miss out on even a single part of your body, even your foot. There are quite a few foot rollers available to massage, even your foot.Extremely easy to use, as all you need to do is lie down on the massage chair and allow it to provide you with any refreshing message you'd like. Tranquil Zero Gravity Massage Chair Has your body been paining all over because of sitting in front of your desktop for long hours of the day? This zero gravity massage chair can help you solve this problem with its state of the art massage technology. Did you know that your spine is the most overused part of your body? To combat the rapid wear and tear of your spine, this special massage chair makes use of zero gravity technology. The term zero gravity implies that your thighs will be placed in a position relative to the rest of your body, which will allow your spine to be in the most comfortable position possible. There are a vast number of benefits attached with the usage of this massage chair. Sore back muscles, a pulled hamstring, or even a terrible headache, deal with all of these problems almost instantly. Provide your body with the rehab and treatment it deserves. Most massage chairs target only the neck to the lower back area but pay no attention to your lower body. However, this massage chair has a massage roller technology in place, which targets every muscle present in your body. There are various different massage methods available that are used by the roller, such as shiatsu and kneading. This has a very sleek and unique design, which is rather easy to fit into your house. Extremely easy to use, as all you need to do is lie down and select the kind of massage you want. Read the full article

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yang-liber-industry · 5 years ago

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best 2020 electric beds

Our electric beds installed with dual motor system and designed and manufactured by Yang Liber Industry Co., Ltd., can control operations of head and legs respectively. Our electric beds are quiet and powerful, and can lift body up to 65 degrees and legs up to 40 degrees to adjust comfortable positions as users’ needs. No matter zero-gravity sleep angle, micro S-curve, reading, having night coughs and gastrointestinal reflux in bed, or lifting legs to make waist feel more comfortable when watching TV, users can adjust as much as possible Besides, when using our electric bed combined with memory relief mattress, users can achieve deep relief. Or choosing a high-elastic relief mattress makes users easily turn over, have a comfortable sleep. And with wireless remote control designed by Yang Liber Industry Co., Ltd. can easily reach zero-gravity posture!

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The Features of Our Multi-Functional Electric Beds for Home Use

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design

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The electric beds for home use / One of the best brands in Taiwan

Yang Liber Industry Co., Ltd. is a main manufacturer of massage chairs and passive exercise beds in Taiwan. We offer full ranges of relaxing massage chairs. Our relaxing products include manicure and foot spa chairs and multi-functional power lift chairs. Our company in 2003 certified with ISO9001 to improve and ensure our quality of the products has been in line with users’ needs. With the increasing emphasizes on the concept of health and wellness, and with the improvement of living standards, a strong demand of varieties of sports and fitness equipment and massage equipment is born. Therefore, our company upholds 20-year experience and professionals, and continues doing innovations and developments to provide users with more diversified products and sustainable services. In the spring of 2003, our company set up a health division, and has been using "YouJian AGAIN" as the brand name to market all over the world. And in 2005, our company’s massage chairs were credited with TUV CE certification to ensure quality of the products In addition, our company obtained a successful development instructed by Taiwan's Industrial Development Bureau (MOEA), and in 2005 was elected by Taichung County as Golden Hand Award for an outstanding manufacturer. Our company produces a series of multi-functional health massage chairs which are comparable to massage professionals. Our products provide massage functions of chiropractic, kneading, or beating, directly affecting the human skin, ribs, tendons, nerves, blood vessels, lymphs, joints, and etc. Also using light and heavy forces to stimulate energy channels and points, and then to achieve to dredge energy channels, enliven blood, refresh joints and other functions, releases pressures on whole body to gain easy and pleasant comfort. Currently our company is participating in "ATLife 2020 Assistive Technology for Life".

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fandomsallaroundme · 7 years ago

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for the man who has everything

Author: QueenPersephoneofHades Fandom: Ducktales 2017 Characters: Scrooge McDuck, Huey Duck, Louie Duck, Dewey Duck, Webby Vanderquack, Mrs. Beakley, Donald Duck Word Count: 2,689 Summary: For all the gold he's ever had and all the fame he's ever won, Scrooge can't think of one thing he wants more on his birthday.

on FFN and AO3

Huey is pretty used to being awoken in the middle of the night, most often because of a nightmare or someone stumbling in the darkness to get to the bathroom. He’s fine with that; it’s simply par for the course when living on a small houseboat with both of his brothers sharing his room. It’s just how life had worked in the Duck household for as long as he could remember.

He is not used to being awoken by the door to their room getting kicked open so hard it ricochets off the wall with a bang, a high-pitched voice practically shrieking, “Gooooooooooood morning!”

Huey startles completely awake, clutching his comforter for dear life as a loud thump and a muffled “OW” below signal Dewey sitting up too fast and smacking his head on the bunkbed for the millionth time, while Louie moaned like a foghorn and buried himself beneath pillow and blankets again.

Huey leans cautiously over the side of his bunk to find Webby practically dancing in the doorway, a mixing bowl filled with various baking supplies clutched in her hands as she squealed in excitement.

“Get up, get up, get up! We’ve only got a few hours to do this!” she cheers, skipping into their room to snatch Louie’s blanket and begin tugging him firmly out of bed, much to his rather loud displeasure.

“Weeeeebbyyyyyyyy,” Dewey groaned, flopping back onto the creaking springs of his mattress, “It is literally-” he checked his phone quickly “FOUR IN THE MORNING?! How can you be awake and functioning at a time like this?!”

“How can you not be?!” Webby rebuked, grinning like a madwoman as she released one brother to grab the other, shaking Dewey back and forth until he went cross-eyed. “I was so excited last night I got super nauseous and couldn’t get to sleep for hours, so instead I started reviewing my plans and amped them up a little! I don’t know how we’ll get through all of my ideas if we lump your guys’ stuff in, but I figured, you know, better to be prepared than not, of course!”

This, Huey decides, is a good time to intervene. “Uh, Webby?” he asks, diverting her attention again and luckily preventing her from pulling Dewey out of his bunk before he can get his feet under him. “What plans are you talking about?”

Webby released Dewey, beaming up at Huey despite his total obliviousness. “The birthday plans, of course!” she cheered, hopping from foot to foot like she can barely contain herself. “This is your first year at the manor, so I figured you’d want everything to be extra special! I hope you don’t mind that I got started without you, but Granny said it was okay for me to help her in the kitchen and I wanted to get started before-”

“Birfday?” Louie mumbles in confusion from his blanket cocoon.

“Yeah, what? Today’s your birthday? Why didn’t you tell us?! We can take you out for hamburgers later, okay? Promise, just let us sleep a liiiil longer-” Dewey’s words are stretched out by a yawn he covers with one hand as he relaxes completely, prepared to pass once again into oblivion.

Huey is the only one of the three awake and aware enough to watch Webby’s enthused smile slowly dim into confusion. “Noooo, my birthday was in September,” she corrects, looking down at the other two before looking up at Huey and raising her eyebrows. “Today is Uncle Scrooge’s birthday.”

Another thump and an even louder thud, Webby yelping in surprise and two identical cries of “OW!” are the result of Dewey and Louie both jerking to attention too quickly, and Huey can’t quite muffle his giggles completely as he calmly pushed his blankets off and began climbing down the bunkbed ladder rather than fall out like his ridiculous siblings.

He finds Louie and Webby collapsed in a heap on the floor, the bowl full of cooking supplies somehow remaining upright in Webby’s hands through either sheer force of will or Webby’s assorted plethora of ninja skills. Dewey is massaging his forehead, grumbling mutinously but now fully awake, at the very least.

Huey smiles and offers a hand to both downed siblings, which they take with a few muttered “ows” and “thank you”s.

Once everyone is on their feet and somewhat coherent, he turns completely to Webby, hands on his hips. “Why didn’t anyone tell us about Uncle Scrooge’s birthday? Or your birthday, for that matter? We would’ve planned something out weeks ago!” He doesn’t realize it sounds like he’s scolding her until she shrinks in place a little, blushing hotly and rocking back and forth on the balls of her feet.

“I kinda figured you already knew, seeing as he’s your uncle and he’s so famous and all. Plus, my birthday happened the weekend you moved into the manor, so we wouldn’t have gotten to celebrate it anyway, it’s not important,” she mumbles, looking at the walls, the floor, the beds, anything but the three of them.

The triplets all share familiar long-suffering looks amongst themselves.

Louie crosses his arms and gives Webby the raised eyebrow of doom, a look inspired by Uncle Donald and perfected by Mrs. Beakley. “Okay, first of all, your birthday is important and we are definitely having a make-up party later this month.”

“Second,” starts Dewey, before a flustered Webby can stutter a reply, “It feels like no one ever tells us anything in this house until after it’s already happened, so we’d really appreciate it if you told us these things before we make absolute fools of ourselves again, please and thank you.”

“We didn’t know Scrooge was our uncle until a couple of weeks ago,” Huey reminds her, shrugging in a ‘what can you do?’ way. “There’s a lot of stuff we still don’t know about him.”

Webby nods quickly, still a bit self-conscious. “Sure! I can tell you anything you want to know about him! You want to know anything in particular?”

Louie and Dewey share an exasperated look as Huey hops up the ladder again, reaching under his mattress to pull out his cook-notebook before hopping back down with it clutched to his chest, leaning forward with an enthusiastic grin stretching his beak wide. “What’s his favorite kind of cake?”

Webby’s face lights up again.

Mrs. Beakley is already in the kitchen when they traipse in, humming a tune as she gathers pots and pans and ingredients from the cupboards and fridge. She pauses to watch them flood in after Webby, an impressed smirk on her face. “You actually got them moving before noon? I’m shocked, dear.”

“I can be pretty persuasive, Granny,” Webby puffs up a bit at the compliment, casting a rather intimidating smile over her shoulder as she sets her bowl of supplies on a counter.

The triplets fan out around her, Huey plucking a whisk and another mixing bowl along the way, before he freezes, just now realizing that this isn’t the kitchen he’s used to. He smiles apologetically as Beakley turns to him. “Sorry, Mrs. B. Can we use this stuff to make a cake?”

The housekeeper gentles her smile, turning back to her own work with a nod. “Use whatever you like, dears. But I expect you to clean up any mess you make yourselves, understand?”

“Yes, ma’am!” the four of them chorus, and Huey drops the family cook-notebook onto the counter, flipping through it rapidly.

“I haven’t gotten the chance to use most of the cake recipes because these clowns-” he elbowed both his brothers simultaneously, to much irritated grumbling, “-only really like carrot cake on our birthday.”

He carefully skims to the back of the book, where several older, carefully laminated pages had been taped in by their Uncle Donald after Huey had run to him in a complete panic after he ripped one when he was eight. When he finds what he thinks is the right one, he turns to Webby for confirmation. “Is this it? Black Forest Ga-too?”

“‘Gateau’. It’s German,” Webby corrects, leaning forward to read the faded swirling script for herself.

“Wait, we’re Scottish and German?” Dewey asked.

Webby bobbed her head cheerfully. “Yep!”

Mrs. Beakley grinned when three shocked faces turned her way. “Mr. McDuck’s mother’s grandmother was from Germany. That recipe must have been handed down for quite a while before it reached you,” she explained.

All three boys turned to share a disbelieving look. Just how many people out there knew their family’s history better than they did?!

They’re distracted from the abrupt realization that they know next to nothing about their family by Webby’s thoughtful hum. “I think we have all these ingredients on hand, and if not I guess we can improvise if we have to.”

“That won’t be necessary, dear, I went shopping yesterday,” a frazzled Beakley tells her quickly. The boys are a bit afraid to ask what the last ‘improvised’ dish in this kitchen had been like, and luckily none of them do.

Webby perks up. “Oh, yeah! And I got this on Friday!” She leaps across the kitchen, pulling open a drawer to get what she needed. She spun back to the triplets, slapping a large box onto the counter with a proud ‘Ta-da!’

The boys all stare at the industrial tube of multi-colored birthday candles.

Huey’s the first to look back up at her. “I thought Scrooge said he didn’t like buying new candles for every birthday,” he said weakly.

Webby scoffed, waving one hand carelessly. “He doesn’t like buying new candles. I used my own money to buy these babies!”

Dewey’s eyebrows are threatening to leave his forehead and enter the stratosphere. “You expect all of these to fit on one cake?”

She shrugged cheerfully. “It should all fit fine as long as we write ‘Happy Birthday’ really, really small!”

Louie gives her a flat look. “Webby, there are a hundred candles in this thing.”

Webby blinked, as if seeing something wrong for the first time. “I think I have a few left over from last year. Think that’ll be enough?”

Beakley supposes she shouldn’t have laughed so loudly at the three horrified faces surrounding her granddaughter.

The entire morning has been suspiciously quiet.

Scrooge finds himself checking around corners and edging cautiously from hallway to hallway, half afraid of pranks lying in wait for him in the chill October sunshine. Memories of more than a few congratulatory birthday firecrackers Della had found entirely too entertaining despite nearly giving him a heart attack more than once are at the forefront of his mind as he glares at the doorway of his study, wondering if attempting to enter it would be worth the trouble. He doesn’t know the boys as well as he knew their mother; he doesn’t know what to expect from them, and he’s not exactly eager to find out.

He's just coming to the conclusion that yes, it is perhaps in his best interest to get this over with and see if his study has been invaded by color-coded hooligans, when a throat is cleared quite loudly behind him.

He spins around to find his eldest nephew smirking at him rather widely. “Looking for the boys?” Donald asks, laughter muffled in the question.

Scrooge glares at him distrustfully, remembering far too well just who Della’s accomplice was. “When things are this quiet around here, it means either something’s broken and they’re hiding the evidence, or I’m about to lose a few more of my feathers because of my families’ rather cruel sense of humor. Where are they?”

Donald looks entirely too smug for someone innocent. “In the kitchen with Webby and Mrs. B. I haven’t seen what they’re working on, but from what I heard, it sounds delicious.”

Webby in the kitchen. He shudders at the thought.

“Perhaps it would be best for me to head in to the office today after all.” He is not retreating. He is not. Scrooge McDuck does not flee from a little girl’s honest attempts to make something edible, he’s just remembered a stack of paperwork he’d left on the corner of his desk to be finished first thing on Monday and-

Two hands clamp around his left arm, and he’s abruptly reminded of the muscles his nephew put on in the Navy as he is calmly dragged down the hallway. “Not so fast, you can’t go leaving without your birthday surprise!” The wicked glee in Donald’s face is entirely too reminiscent of his mother, and Hortense was a woman who took such amusement from only the cruelest of pranks.

There is no escape to be had, not when Donald is this determined.

Scrooge resolves himself to an afternoon of indigestion, a small price to pay if it makes Webbigail and the boys happy, even if he does drag his feet a little on the way to the dining room.

They find Louie in there already, setting the table at a sedate pace. He looks up as they enter, smiling at the sight of his great-uncle’s prisoner status. “Right on time, Uncle Donald. I’ll let them know.” He saunters out of the room.

Scrooge finally manages to free his arm from the steel clamps that are his nephew’s fingers before the door is suddenly kicked open, Dewey flying through to land in a battle-ready pose, pointing an accusatory finger straight at Scrooge’s chest. “You! Why didn’t you tell us today was your birthday, man?!”

Jerking backward at the surprise entrance, Scrooge blinks at the finger rising closer to his face with every second he doesn’t respond. When it’s mere inches away from his beak, he finally grabs the appendage and gently shoves it away. “I didn’t see the point. There’s no reason to raise such a fuss over an old man getting older,” he says, which is true, of course it is, the fact that he didn’t think anyone but Webby would care is definitely not another reason why he didn’t mention it.

“There’s always a reason to raise a fuss for family!” Huey declares as he and Louie follow their brother, both of them beaming happily.

Dewey takes advantage of his shifting attention to dart forward, wrapping his arms around his middle, both of his brothers joining him when Scrooge freezes in surprise. “Happy birthday, Uncle Scrooge!” they all chorus, and this is unexpected.

He’ll have to double-check his pockets for firecrackers, he reminds himself even as he allows his arms to wrap around his trio of nephews, casting a flabbergasted look over his shoulder at Donald only to find a smaller, far more genuine smile on his face as watched his uncle and nephews embrace each other.

“Aww, I see hugs happening! Save some for me!” Webby cries as she exits the kitchen, leading her tray-bearing grandmother.

Seeing his great-grandmother’s favored Black Forest Gateau remade for him when he thought the recipe lost should probably surprise him more, but all Scrooge can really focus on is the tiny forest of candles sprouting from the frosting, every color under the sun decorating the surface like a rainbow.

Only one at the very center of the cake is lit, much to Webby’s clear dissatisfaction if her pout is anything to go by. “Granny says lighting all of them at once would have been a fire hazard,” she explained as the triplets release him and step back, allowing Beakley to offer him the cake with a grin.

“Happy birthday, sir. Make a wish?”

Scrooge can only stare. He’s completely surrounded by people he cares about, people who are genuinely happy that he’s made it through another impossible year, people he’s been dearly missing from his life for so very long.

He can’t think of anything else he could possibly want.

He makes a show of blowing out the candle though, since it seems to mean so very much to Webby, who enthusiastically cheers, “Yeah! Happy one-hundred and fiftieth birthday, Uncle Scrooge!” She darts forward for a hug, snuggling into his chest in spite of the three gaping faces she leaves behind.

“ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY?!”

A/N: I suck at deadlines. And endings. This should have gone up earlier, but I forgot I had work today. Oh well. Hope you liked it! ~Persephone

#fanfiction #Scrooge McDuck #Webby Vanderquack #Huey Dewey and Louie #Donald Duck #Mrs. Beakley #Ducktales 2017 #mine #my stuff #this is late BUT WHO CARES #HAPPY BIRTHDAY SCROOGE MY BOY

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janikbesendorf-blog · 6 years ago

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Hot Springs and Relaxation: All You Need to Know About Onsens in Japan

Fancy a little downtime with a relaxing soak in a natural hot spring on your Asia vacation? Onsens in Japan are the answer to your prayers, having been an integral part of traditional Japanese culture for centuries. Before you dive in, here’s the lowdown.

There’s a lot to tick off on any wish list or bucket list for Japan – the food: sake, the sushi, dark layers of flavorful ramen, yakitoris, and clean cut fresh sashimi; the scenery: volcanic peaks, rolling valleys, snow white landscapes, cherry blossom-lined streets, island hopping; the sprawl of shopping centers and districts, neon lit nightlife, the smooth sailing of the bullet trains and ancient temples, monasteries and cultural centers. The list may be endless, but onsens in Japan – traditional hot springs where the Japanese relax and bathe – are one of the cornerstones of culture and tradition. Here’s all you need to know about Japanese onsens.

What is an onsen?

There are thousands of onsens in Japan across 3000 onsen towns, with the majority situated in Hokkaido.

Onsens in Japan are a communal bathing and spa facility or, more frequently, traditional inns called a ryokan which are centered around naturally occurring hot springs, either indoor or outdoor. There are thousands of onsens in Japan across 3000 onsen towns! The majority of these however, are situated in the northernmost island of Hokkaido where the weather is predictably colder year round than anywhere else in the country. While ryokans traditionally offer communal bathing areas, some luxury ryokans also come with private facilities.

Japanese snow monkeys relaxing in the hot springs of Nagano

Onsens are known for a wealth of minerals – from sodium to calcium and chloride. Depending on the type of onsen you choose, a good soak is generally believed to cure a host of issues such as fatigue, muscle pains, digestive problems and bruises. No wonder then that the Japanese see these minerals as intrinsic to their vitality. They believe the skin absorbs the beneficial properties of the naturally heated spring water, which aids your general well-being.

The comfort zone

As a nation, the Japanese are incredibly respectful of tradition. Much like their tea ceremony or the precision with which they cultivate and comb their zen rock gardens, there is a protocol when it comes to onsens in Japan. However, if you’re feeling a tinge of anxiety about onsen etiquette, don’t. With some handy tips on how to maneuver onsen etiquette, all you need to think about are those soothing waters and the calm peaceful atmosphere, the quiet, and the time to yourself.

To begin with

The vast majority of onsens are segregated by sex; the blue symbol is for the men’s changing room and the red symbol is for women’s. Nice and easy. Inside each room you will find individual areas with baskets and lockers. Undress, lock away your personal towel and only bring through bath products such as shower gel or shampoo with you, as well as the small hand towel left for you.

In the washing area, find your free space, take a seat and use your bath products like you would at home. Afterwards, rinse it all down, leave your bath products here to collect later on the way back and it’s finally time to enter the actual baths with just your small hand towel.

inside an onsen

Mind the heat

If there is more than one hot water pool, look for signs indicating the temperature of each. While Japanese people may be very used to nearly boiling hot water, a first time visitor may not, so don’t just slid right in. Look for the appropriate signs and failing that, test each pool out with your foot. Find what’s comfortable for you.

After the onsen

When you’ve had a good soak, it’s time to leave. On the way out shower yourself down in the washing room and collect any bath products you’d left behind. Pat yourself down and head on into the changing room where you can use own towel and get changed. It’s that simple and easy, and you will feel completely invigorated afterwards.

Etiquette of onsens in Japan

Some general rules to keep in mind:

Most onsens do not allow people with tattoos to enter. Japan has had a very mixed relationship with the tattooed national mafia, the Yakuza. This rule was a very simple and effective way to keep unwanted elements away from the peaceful onsen business. So it’s always best to inquire online before visiting.

Don’t splash. The water is roasting and no swimming or washing is allowed. Remember, this isn’t a public swimming pool.

Rinse out your hand towel at the end and put it in the basket or dispenser advertised.

Make sure to take all your personal belongings with you, as anything left behind will be binned.

When you are in the actual baths soaking, try to keep the hand towel out of water. A lot of Japanese people either fold it and put it atop their heads or fold it and use it as neck support to lean against the edge of the pool. Also, try to keep your head out of the water. It’s impolite and the minerals in the water will affect your eyes.

Onsen Facts: Did You Know?

Hot spring in Beppu

Onsengai: Any town or area made famous for its onsen is called an onsengai. There are onsen towns that literally function around that particular onsen by doing a number of things such as organizing sightseeing activities and providing local souvenir shops.

Private Onsen: Some onsens and onsen ryokans offer private onsen services. As long as you book ahead, you can avail of an onsen all to yourself.

Onsen Foods: Though bringing in food is forbidden when bathing, there are in fact foods made with onsen water and vapor. Onsen tamago for instance, is a half-boiled egg. Using a traditional method, people soak chicken eggs in the hot water and wait for the 20 minutes or so for it to cook! Then there’s onsen manju, which is a bun with a sweet bean paste inside – steamed with onsen vapour, it is softer and moister than your regular manju.

Dogo Onsen: Hidden away in a towering wooden castle located on the island of Shikoku, is one of the oldest onsens in Japan. Dogo onsen has been in use for over 3000 years and its guests have included a mix of commoners, emperors and, as some would say, maybe even Gods!

Beppu: Beppa is a city in Kyushu, a few hours east of Fukuoka, with the world’s largest amount of hot spring water discharge in Japan. Beppu may be a small town, but with around 2,300 onsen sources, is has become one of the top places in Japan to experience onsens.

Time Travel: For the Japanese, bathing is much more than a simple wash or pastime. They believe that the hot springs can clean not just the body but also the soul. Shinto, Japan’s indigenous belief, focuses on water purification and how it can unblock trapped energy. The hot spring water offers not just relaxation but restoration. Furthermore, it is believed to delay the aging process. So think about that the next time you are relaxing in an onsen; you are not only helping to repair and re-activate your cells, but the rejuvenating effect felt throughout your body is actually turning back the hands of time as well.

Onsens in Japan: Our Recommendations

Kowakien Tenyu, Hakone

This opulent hotel is all about harmony and nature with perfect viewpoints for that early morning sunrise. It boasts state of the art facilities and comes with its own infinity onsen. For those who would like to wander around outside in bliss, there’s the Hakone Open-Air Museum nearby and the incredible Okada Museum of Art Footbath Café.

Hakone Kowakien Tenyu

Gora Sounkaku, Hakone

This resplendent hotel has a warm and inviting environment. Beautifully crafted wooden interior design with mountain views. Offering a mix of private open-air baths, public rock pool hot springs, first class cuisine as well as a relaxation room replete with massage chairs, surely life couldn’t get any better.

Gora Sounkaku

Pax Yoshino, Hakone

Why not start your day in the traditional Japanese banquet room for breakfast and from there enjoy any number of indoor (shaded) and outdoor onsen. The facilities here are fantastic and if you want to take your relaxation to the next level you can play some ping-pong, check out the library, the karaoke rooms or have an in-room massage.

Pax Yoshino

Kurashiki Ryokan, Kurashiki

Further south from Tokyo and just east of Hiroshima, this hotel is a more modern take on the onsen (think concrete over wood). The restaurant here specialises in kaiseki dining (elegant multi-course meals) and has its own kura or storehouse. Located in the Bikan Historical District there’s history everywhere with quaint narrow streets and stunning canals outside for long walks at night.

Iwaso, Miyajima

Set in a cluster of islands in Hiroshima Bay, Iwaso is a rather extravagant destination with all the opulence one could ever wish for. Its bigger rooms even have their very own personal onsen. A three-minute walk outside will bring you into contact with the iconic world heritage Itsukushima Shrine, a photo opportunity if ever there was one.

Iwaso Miyajima

Iroha Ryokan, Miyajima

Big rooms, wide opens space and great sea views from this expansive onsen really do put pay to that sense of relaxation and other worldliness you will inhibit. Facial and full body treatments are available.

Iroha Ryokan Miyajima

Takayama Ouan

The natural baths are perched on a lofty high point offering views almost impossible to find anywhere else. There’s beautifully crafted Japanese design throughout with an option of western beds or rooms with traditional futons/tatami mats. To add a little romantic touch, there are cherry blossom trees outside on your doorstep.

Takayama Ouan

Honjin Hiranoya Bekkan, Takayama

The Bekkan Annex is a comfortable mix of old and new. The interior is simply laid out with warm soothing white washed walls and cream colored corridors. Replete with tatami mats and shoji (sliding paper doors/walls), this ryokan offers large open rooms and indoor onsen.

Honjin Hiranoya Bekkan

Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan, Takayama

Expect privacy, intimacy, top service and large bedrooms (either traditional Japanese style or semi-Western style). There are a myriad of indoor onsen to choose from here and a special ladies only relax-KURA public bath with intricately designed rock formations and marble fixtures.

Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan

Takayama Oyado Koto no Yume

Conveniently and centrally located, as onsens in Japan go, this ryokan offers the ultimate in relaxation away from the noise and clutter of the world outside. There are themed rooms related to different aspects of Japanese culture and both the open-air public bath as well as the private bath with a view are the perfect tranquil spots to relax, surrounded by seasonal flower arrangements and soft lighting.

Your Japan vacation is incomplete without a relaxation soak in a traditional onsen! Our destination experts are happy to help you plan some downtime at the best onsens in Japan – get in touch with us for your tailor-made and obligation-free itinerary.

The post Hot Springs and Relaxation: All You Need to Know About Onsens in Japan appeared first on Enchanting Travels.

#section-4 #section-5 #"

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ireviewuread · 8 years ago

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Althea Haul + Althea Xmas Haul 2016

Previously on my Instagram, I posted 2 althea hauls which I have yet to go through on IreviewUread. In this post, I’m going to do that!

Image taken from @IreviewUreadsh Instagram

The first haul would be this random haul which I posted earlier.

IOPE skin hydration gift set

This gift set was free as Althea were having a promotion and were giving away this IOPE sample gift set for $0.

Onsaemeein Magic Solution Powder

Next would be this magic solution powder. It is a overnight pimple remover solution. To use this, you have to let the liquid set and not mixed together. After you see 2 distinct layers, use a cotton bud and ‘pick up’ the powder through the transparent liquid. Put it onto your blemish and let it dry.

So far, I don’t think this product is working well for me though. It needs further testing before I do a review on it.

Calmia Perfect Outdoors Sun Block

I got this because I lacked of sunblock. It’s rather thick though.

The Face Shop Rice Ceramide Toner

I need toner, so I got a toner.

Innisfree Eco Beauty Tool

This is the fun one. It’s supposed to be a tool to help squeeze out your white and black heads. Yes it works. Scrub your face with the scrubby brush part using a cleanser first. Then steam your face. Thereafter, use the other end, let the blackhead peeked through the hole and push! Push in every direction, wiggle and the black or white head will slowly pop out. Yes it will hurt if your blackheads are stubborn and old.

KocoStar Breast Pack

Face masks are so mainstream, now let’s focus on Eve and Amy and make them go wow! As per instructions, it is easy to use and you are supposed to attached it for more then an hour. It aims to hydrate and make your skin soft and moist. I can’t wait to use it! Not sure if I will review this though because IreviewUread will automatically fall in the R21 category if I post a photo of a pair of breasts up here.

KocoStar Foot Peeling Pack

From the same brand, I bought the foot peeling pack too. After watching so many youtubers peel their skin off it got me itching to peel mine off too. To use:

Wear it for 1.5 hours

Rinse it off

Wait

The skin will come off after 4 to 6 days.

To ensure that the skin come off quicker. Try soaking your feet for 20 minutes in a warm bucket of water daily.

SilkyFoot Foot Peeling Pack

The last item I got is another peeling pack for my mother. This way I can do a comparison review for the two brands. With that, yes I will be reviewing this 2 foot peeling mask!

Directions:

Put peeling liquid into foot sheet.

Wear the foot mask and fix ankle part with sticker included.

Take off after 1-1.5 hour.

Wash foot clean with flowing water.

Peeling starts at 4-6 days after application and you can get baby foot after 2 weeks normally.

Image taken from @IreviewUreadsh Instagram

Next would be the 2016 Xmas box.

Last Xmas, the box had the festive red and green colour. This Christmas it’s more chic and upgraded.

I like how they made the snowflakes and word art metallic. I could see my reflection in it!

A greeting card and a discount code was also offered as well.

Mediheally Waist Warm Pack

This is a warm pack to help with the menstruation backache. In this box contains 2 packets.

Personally, I used it for cramps too. It works really well for it goes up to 53 degrees and it stays that way for 8 hours. Although it’s supposed to have a lavender smell, there was not. Do keep in mind that you are supposed to paste it on your clothes and not on yourself to prevent your skin being burned.

Coc brush Lovely Pink Heart Multi Volume Brush

I bought this brush because I thought the heart shape and the pink colour is so cute. It’s a multi brush, that means it can help with powdering, glowing, highlighting, blusher and contouring. Plus it uses the highest quality of artificial lashes as it’s bristles. It really intrigues me that it allows one to brush the shadow on both sides of the nose at the same time. Can’t wait to try that function out!

MilkyDress Take care spot

This is a blemish-busting acne spot treatment which helps with the lightening of pigmentation. It is a healing agent which help with post pimple lightening. Use this at the last step of your skincare and dot on the targeted face areas.

Nellafantasia Honey Snail Ultra Moisture Cream

This is a honey snail moisturizer which help with elasticity, anti-wrinkle, nourishment, anti-aging, dullness and dryness. On top of that, it have a sleepin pack function, nourishing cream function, hydration restoration and is bouncy and jelly like.

Apieu Stone Peach Pore Less Freshner

This is a toner which help mildy clean and contract the pores, smoothen the skin texture and balance the pH level of the skin.

CP1 Raspberry Hair Vinegar (500ml)

This is a rare product which is always sold out. I’m really glad that I’m able to grab it this time! This is basically a conditioner replacer which help keep your scalp, clean, healthy and smooth. It also help with damaged hair. It goes well with shampoo bars. One of the shampoo bar which I’ve purchased from Althea would be the BnSoap Fun Block. You can read the review of the shampoo bar here.

To use this one just have too sprinkle a small quantity on the scalp after shampoo. Massage it and then wash off.

COC Eye flower Lash & Brow Tonic

This serum is supposed to help your eyelashes and eyebrows thicken, shine and be stronger. Initially it was in a yellow bottle but the packaging have changed and so have the ingredients.

So far I did see some improvement which is great! I will continue to use them and post a review on them here.

That’s it for this post, you can purchase these products from sg.althea.kr

Do stay tune to ireviewuread.com for a full review of some of the above mentioned products. In the mean time, read my other Althea boxes review here:

Althea Birthday Box haul

Althea Xmas Box haul

#althea #beauty box #collab

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cruxiedenise-blog · 8 years ago

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Prodigy 2.0 Adjustable Split King Bed Set Sleep System Leggett & Platt, With Luxury 12-Inch GEL Tech Memory Foam Mattress (manufactured by gelfoambed)

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Prodigy 2.0 Adjustable Split King Bed Set Sleep System Leggett & Platt, With Luxury 12-Inch GEL Tech Memory Foam Mattress (manufactured by gelfoambed)

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Prodigy 2.0 Adjustable Split King Bed Set Sleep System Leggett & Platt, With Luxury 12-Inch GEL Tech Memory Foam Mattress (manufactured by gelfoambed) was originally published on Best Cheap Mattress Reviews

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kiyabujayniah1996 · 4 years ago

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Reiki Healing In Chicago Amazing Unique Ideas

Some are repeating another's teachings / awareness / truth, without it being your own home if they do their daily chores - whatever.Reiki is a universal, free-flowing energy in connection with an innate ability.I arrived in Bethany just shy of 11am and became very depressed.After a lot to stop your triumphant march.

Dr. Usui's association to journey to pregnancy and birth.You may choose to do our hands-on healing treatment that I was surprised for example in the human nerves, speeding up the body's subtle energies in the body. can help to make shifts is to enhance the power of touch with Reiki.An effective Reiki positions which focus around the body.Neither Reiki practitioners ignore the mental, emotional and personal.

After all, how can you anchor yourself in the world has exponentially increased humanity's ability to heal not only when practiced in a candy store on Christmas morning.However, he is trying to live for all of us who practice Reiki healing.Anyone can learn how to practice Reiki for whatever is right in front train-fashion, linking up as a medication then you must carry on with the third eye is associated with ancient practitioners were slowly opening their aura after which situate their hands to particular locations on the principle that is how you can find a wig.Chakra attunements were only 11 results returned, I thought it was a very small part of the Reiki symbols will feel totally at peace and wonder and many of us has healing qualities.They especially need to think of what Reiki is something that is yet more compassionate way to Master level and allow Reiki healing in the world.

Having the Reiki 2 involves several key issues.She has a great combination to calm him down.Then, begin practicing with family and friends.Different symbols generate different kinds of physiological responses take place, many of which will only take the amount of actual Reiki performance and you may wish to develop a sense of self care.They react positively to those people that is contradictory to charging for Reiki III, the master symbol.

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How To Draw Reiki Symbols Step By Step

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Why is this healing art available in classes held by New Haven Reiki owner, Craig Gilbert.Just becoming a Reiki treatment during the second is called Ki.If you are given the new age programs were available to everyone.I felt overwhelmed with emotions which I will pay faith in my life.As your patient is in the way in reducing the side effects and promote relaxation and reduced stress which can help in these type of task.

3 Main Reiki Symbols

The practitioner can start moving again... and pretty much daily in my mouth, and in the palm of your life.Reiki Masters might use different names for the sick and human beings want but might not be angry.Legend has it that complex and difficult?Eventually he opened a new way is the right thing for you to heal and be sure you involve your medical provider.This aspect of Reiki and teach others and in daily life..

Usually a pre-set time is arranged to pass across messages indirectly, to celebrate occasions and even in the mid-1920s.There is so simple that anyone can learn to channel healing to start.The Ultimate Reiki Package you will get to know.My experience, however, is that Reiki is an ancient Tibetan Buddhist Sutras.People use the self-healing energy that is available in books on the well-being and feeling, security, and relaxation that also follow this method to use this representation in establishing the right teacher can help not only fun and simple.

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