#because it's such a huge series. 12 types of stickers is a lot of types | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

zombinary · 3 years ago

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Alright here’s Mickey! More info under the cut~!

Michael "Mickey" James Starr -24, bday October 13th. Technically it’s October 12th, but he doesn’t celebrate it until the 13th. Reason why is his twin was born at 1:59, he was at 12:01. He’s weird about it. -He/it -Trans man, bi

-Family wise...He doesn't care for his dad and the likewise for him. He sorta left after his parents got divorced when he was like 12. He never really bothered to get to know his kids, which kinda started the whole deal with Mickey. -His mom, he loves her but she's more like Mitch but ten fold. She's super hyper and overbearing and tried WAAAY too hard so now he hates noseyness and opening up and REALLY values his privacy. -Has a twin sister named Mitchell, who he doesn't really talk to much. They're pretty different and just can't agree to disagree on small things. -THAT gave him his motto of "You don't bug me, I don't bug you!" when it comes to strangers! He's not easy to get to know, oops.

-Hobbies include watching horror flicks, perusing auction sites, drawing horror, reading comic books, and writing dnd campaigns. -First pet was a rock he fed with stickers. -Horror fanatic, has tons of props around his place that he takes GREAT care of. Some are even legitimate props from auctions! Yes he spends too much money on them. -Runs a blog that's him reviewing modern horror flicks or series. It's not that popular but he doesn't really give a shit, it's more for him to yell into the void. -His favorite horror is alien scifi. Thus, his favorite movie is Aliens 1985. He's got a crush on the Xenomorph

-Personality wise he's stone faced and quiet. Blunt and doesn't like to beat around the bush. He's honest to a fault, though. Just don't expect him to slam you with a bunch of ice breakers right off the bat. -He REALLY perks up when he's talking about horror n scary n gross things, he has this thing where he'll run on and on with just one breath. He'll get more excited with each word. He's a passionate dude. Kinda rare to happen though since he's so mellow, and doesn't outwardly show his excitement much. -Under all that stoic grumpness he's a huge cornball that reads romance novels and kicks his feet when the two people kiss after 10 chapters. He's also kept all of the crafts Mitch has made him, like the holiday cards or whatnot. He gets p upset if they get creased.

-Works at a comic book store in this megamall. He'll spend his breaks reading the most interesting looking ones! Shockingly hasn't been fired yet for his lack of retail smile n attitude. -Fashion sense is a lot of t shirts and dress shirts over those t shirts. Usually it's some kinda graphic shirt but he does have a spot for the goofy ones. Lotta boots and sneakers and converses. He doesn't really try to look his best, more so wants to be comfy and casual. Though, he does like matching colors a lot. -His types are mean stoic girls, desperate cocky men, and ppl who are generally tall. If someone he thinks is cute is nearby he'll just fucking. Leave as soon as possible HNHYTPJTYPYTKP -He hates being tall bc he wants to be unnoticeable as possible

-When he came out and started to transition, Mick didn't talk too much about his feelings. At least at first, but he did go out with his mom and lead her around to what clothes he wanted. More so a silent vulnerability for him, an action rather than talking. -He already had a wardrobe that fit him because yanno over time his style shifted. But he still wanted to do it with his mom. He was willing to share this thing with her, after all. -They helped choose his new name! His mom immediately started calling him "Mickey" because he's her lil mousey baby uguuguuuuu [she dressed them up as mice for their first halloween and ever since she's called them her Minnies] -ONLY Mitch and his mom and CLOSE FRIENDS can call him Mickey or Mick. He acts nonchalant about it but he likes his nickname.

#Mickey OC

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pickedproducttblr-blog · 4 years ago

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7 best cheap golf simulators Under $1000 in 2021 – [Tested]

The golfer would love to have their own golf simulator setup, but unfortunately many aren’t able to afford mid-range simulators because the mid-range simulator price near about $5000. On the other hand, many golfers want to practice day or night but aren’t willing to pay more than $1000.

If you belong in this category then this article suits you. However, as golf simulator technology has advanced, very cheap solutions have appeared in the market.

There are some cheapest golf simulators available in the market to help you improve or enjoy golf in this COVID-19 situation, and in this article, I’ll review and compare our picks for the best golf simulator for under $1000 and some even are less than $500 bucks.

Things you should keep in mind before choosing best cheap golf simulators

Before we go further, you ought to understand that you'll get a limited experience with these sorts of cheap golf simulators. Some devices measures some shot data, simulation software, and maybe a net or mat, but not much more than this. Detailed shot data and more extra features you will get on a high-budgets simulator like SkyTark Golf Simulator, Trackman Golf, etc. But you don’t get advanced features on the cheap golf simulators. However, you’ll still get good experience and these cheap golf simulators can get your job done in terms of improving your game. We have tested all of those simulator setups. Some offer fewer features than others, but all of them give an exceptional home/outdoor golf simulators experience for the cost.

1. OptiShot 2 Golf Simulator for Home | Golf in A Box Series

Key Features:

Expanding library with 15 world-class golf courses.

Ability to play up to 4 players.

3D realistic environment.

Hit all shots from tee to hole.

Play with your own setup.

Practice shots from anywhere on the course.

Size: 1.5M long x 1.2M wide

High-quality dense foam and turf

Lightweight, easy to store, and has firm foam-based.

What’s Included:

Golf Simulation Software by Dancin’ Dogg

Infrared Optical Golf Simulator Swing Pad

OptiShot Practice Net.

OptiShot Hitting Mat

USB Cable, 10 feet long.

2 foam practice balls.

2 adjustable rubber tees.

Pros

Best visuals and course options

Training academy adds to the practice options

Only true studio system under $1000.

Comes as a package box and just plug it in and play

Swing stats with distance, speed, path, and clubface angle

Play online against other golfers

Cons

Doesn’t track actual ball flight, so you can miss launch angle

Graphics aren’t as good as other simulator sets

2. Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor for Golf Indoor and Outdoor

Key Features:

Professional-level accuracy: Distance accuracy is within 2.5% similar to Trackman, which is more than $30,000.

Set up within the 30s — Simply open the app, connect to your device via Bluetooth and start playing.

The instant real-time video feedback comes with a shot trace and data overlay which makes it easier to understand cause and effect.

Access your history to view averages, trajectory, dispersion, and standard deviation for each of your clubs.

Gps satellite view.

You can use it at home and outdoor also.

Pros

Very cheap price, under $500.

High quality and accurate

Whatever you needed, included in the box.

Can use your own sets

100% portability

Cons

Only compatible with ios(iPhone, iPad) devices.

Need a computer for a permanent home setup.

3. Rapsodo R-Motion and The Golf Club Simulator and Swing Analyzer

Key Features:

Play real rounds of golf with your friends by attaching your own clubs.

15 top courses included.

Incredibly accurate club and ball data.

Runs on your PC — no launch monitor or projector needed. 4 hours long battery life.

Extremely easy to use — just provide your own mat and net and start playing!

Play any time, no matter the weather.

What’s Included:

1 sensor

Clip

USB dongle

Charging cord

Pros

The incredible accuracy of the simulator

High-quality graphics

Software quality is also good

Cons

Don’t support Mac

Some users failed to connect to PC

4. FlightScope Mevo — Portable Personal Launch Monitor for Golf

Key Features:

You can use it at home, on the driving range, or even on the course.

MEASURE: It provides accurate real-time performance data to help you train and improve with every club in the bag.

EVALUATE Data parameters that include carrying distance, clubhead speed, ball speed, smash factor, vertical launch angle, spin, apex height, and flight time.

Automatically capture data and video on your mobile device.

Save and compare data over time to trace your progress.

Your videos and data are captured and stored automatically, allowing you to review each session, share together with your coach, and analyze your progress over time.

Real-Time Performance Data includes:

Carry distance

Clubhead speed

Ball speed

Spin rate

Launch angle

Smash factor

Apex height

Flight time

Pros

Very affordable

Usable on all OS

Truly portable system, using GPS for swing data analysis

A small device fits in your pocket or golf bag.

Cons

Accuracy can be affected sometimes by monitor placement.

Metallic stickers must be attached to every ball hit, which can take time

5. tittle X Home Golf Simulator 2021

Key Features:

The best home cheapest golf simulator has E6 Connect with 4K ultra-high definition.

Provides real screen golf experiences in various practice modes.

An impressive reaction rate of 0.1 sec provides no delay in data transfer.

The smart stick offers the ability to play golf at home.

Up to 8 people can play golf with this simulator.

Title X home simulator analyzes your swing with a fancy designed lightweight sensor.

What’s Included:

Title X Device

Swing Stick

E6 Connect Product Key

Charger Cable and Manual

Multi Clip and Bands

Fixed 4 Clips

Pros

Simple design, easy to use

12 courses included with purchase

Instant, live feedback on every swing.

Cons

Without a computer, you can analyze data

6. Phigolf Mobile and Home Smart Golf Game Simulator

Key Features:

Connect the app to your TV and immerse yourself in realistic golf courses available fully HD.

Enjoy a round of golf without the necessity for extra setup. Use the swing trainer included within the Phigolf WGT Edition and begin playing without nets or balls.

With the swing trainer measuring only 2 ft, Phigolf WGT Edition allows you to enjoy golf in your own front room.

Bad weather won’t stop you from having fun. Play golf anytime, anywhere; challenge your friends online — all at the comfort of your house.

What’s Included:

Game Simulator

Swing Stick

Pros

Realistic

Can play in your home

Has multiple practice options

Really cheap

Cons

Doesn’t allow the use of real clubs or balls

Can only be used indoors and not on range or course

7. Matro Home Screen Golf Practice and Playing Simulator Tmax Swing Baro

Key Features:

You can play golf at your home or office or wherever together with your loved ones at any time.

Courses and Ranges Are ahead of You — This amazing unit can bring the golf courses and driving ranges into your home or office, wherever you’re in by TV connection.

Easy reference to TV and Just Play Golf — Connect main body with TV by HDMI cable and just play golf, no need internet or computer.

Perfect Equipment for The Novice and Experienced Golfer — it’s great to play and practice golf for both the novice and therefore the experienced golfer.

What’s Included:

Playing Simulator Tmax Swing Baro

Sensor, sensor clip

Practice stick

Pros

Multi-functional

Usable at home

Very easy to set-up

Affordable

Cons

Doesn’t allow the use of real clubs or balls

Can’t be used on range or course

Conclusion

Golf simulators became a lot more accessible and affordable over the past decade, and this suggests more golfers than ever before are ready to have their own personal setup.

Even a cheap golf simulator is often a huge boon to your golf toolkit. Finding a simulator package that may meet your needs is certainly possible with some research.

Each of the simulator options reviewed above offers excellent value for the price. We’ve given you the information you would like to create a decision; now it’s up to you to go the remainder of the way.

While it’s likely that no golf simulator setup will tick all of your boxes, some will come pretty near to doing so. If you wish for an excellent better experience, consider increasing your budget.

We highly recommend reading consumer and professional reviews of golf simulators to accumulate useful insights on how they really perform. this can assist you a lot within the decision-making process.

FAQ

What type of computer do I need? Can it be used on a Mac/iPhone/iPad?

Each system will have its own list of minimum system requirements. generally, though, you’ll need Windows 7 or later, 4gig of RAM, and a minimum of 1gig of disk drive space. an honest graphics card is going to be required to point out the courses in high definition, and you’ll need a powerful processor just like the Intel i5 or newer. Most of the listed systems here will work on Mac also as Windows PCs. However, you ought to double-check with the manufacturer before making a sale.

Will, I should buy these golf simulators?

No. Each listed simulator comes with everything you want to have to play, with the exception of mobile apps and computers. Of course, you’ll also need your own golf clubs to play, and you’ll always prefer to purchase more courses.

#best golf simulators #best cheap golf simulators #cheap golf simulators #golf lounge 18 #golf simulators #hbg golf simulator #home golf simulators #paddock golf dome simulator #picked product #proximity golf lounge #simulator league #cheap golf simulator #cheapest golf simulators #cheapest golf simulator #golf simulator home

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godofstory · 4 years ago

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first of all thank you sweetie for inviting me @asiriuscrushonmoonyx 😻❤

1: what do you prefer to be called name-wise?

I would go with Zaki because it has a long funny story:)

2: when is your birthday?

9th february (yeah same as my love Tom Hiddles^^ )

3: where do you live?

Iran

4: three things you are doing right now?

emmm getting ready for Yalda (it's a tradition in our country that we celebrate the longest night of the year which is the last day of autumn in here) ; listening to music ; and searching all over the tumblr, wattpad, ao3, google, pintrest,... for more Dashingfrost content:D (my new favorite but unpopular ship)

5: four fandoms that have piqued your interest?

MARVEL,HARRY POTTER,Narnia, F.r.i.e.n.d.s

6: how has the pandemic been treating you?

I found out that my life style is called Quarantine

7: a song you can’t stop listening to right now?

i can't help falling in love - Elvis

8: recommend a movie.

i'm more of a series and movie franchises lover; but I would recommend DEAD POET SOCIETY so much! I believe everyone should see that movie at least once.

9: how old are you?

10: school, university, occupation, other?

university;i'm studying Graphic and Animation

11: do you prefer heat or cold?

cold (irony that i'm living in one of the most hot cities)

12: name one fact others may not know about you.

I'm a huge Barcelona fan and my favorite player of all time is Andres Iniesta! (actually everyone in my life knows that about me,it's the first thing to know me by,but i don't think anyone here knew that?so here:D )

13: are you shy?

maybe? I would call it asocial;because I'm not really comfortable around new people ('cause mostly I don't want them to get close to me),but i'm really ok around my friends and family

14: your pronouns?

She/her

15: biggest pet peeves?

well I have Thalassophobia but i don't think that count as pet peeve? so i'm going with "someone uses my Stickers and Gifs on telegram" :)))

16: what is your favorite “dere” type?

what's that?sorry i don't get it

17: rate your life from 1-10.

5 (and i'm being so positive about it)

18: what’s your main blog?

this one

19: list your side blogs and what they’re used for.

i don't have any;I just post and reblog every new obsession here; too tired to switch accounts:)))

20: Is there something people need to know about you before becoming friends?

I have some rules actually that people don't know about;and I ended my many friendships because of them:)))) most important ones are:

1.don't be homophobic

2.don't insult or humiliate my fave characters , ships and fictional worlds ('cause they help me a lot the way no one can or did; and i can't stand anyone say bad things about them or make fun of them)

I tag @regulusblxck @ravenclaw-reblogs @regulustok @bartylusaying @goatclover @ncilpcrry @james-effing-potter and anyone who want to join❤

#personal #game tag

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mrs-yamada · 6 years ago

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Coping Mechanisms

I realized I’ve posted a lot of stories about abuse, but none of the things I’ve learned over my 40+ years to cope with or lessen the everyday pain one goes through. It’s so hard to struggle through each day all by yourself by sheer will - as it certainly feels like, somedays.

You need to find some ways to deal with your pain! No matter how silly something may sound, if it works it’s not silly at all.

Obviously these won’t all work on everyone and some might irritate the heck out of you, because we’re all different. But if you put your own spin on them and think of what you enjoy to do, they could be helpful.

I’ll add to these if I remember more, since I’m in sort of a downward spiral (parents visiting soon) myself...

Onward, under the break...

Sleep when you need it

If you can, that is. I have too many issues to work and luckily we’ve managed so far with one income, although it sucks. This does mean that I can cater to my individual sleep schedule, however, and I use that to my advantage.

Don’t listen to neural typicals when they say “go to bed at the same time every night”. They’re normies! We’re not! Our bodies differ. You may actually benefit from doing as everyone will tell you, but a lot of us with mental differences benefit much greater from setting our own, very different (and rapid cycling) sleep cycles. I am currently sleeping from 6 am until 1 or 2 in the afternoon. I simply cannot sleep until then no matter what I do - and in a few weeks, I know this will change and I’ll be back to 10 pm or maybe 12. The difference is I get the sleep my body so desperately needs, and it helps greatly. I know not all of us can do this, but if you can - go for it. Try it out. You’d be amazed how good you feel after actually sleeping.

On the flip side, though:

Don’t oversleep

No, seriously. We all have the urge to “never get out of bed”, but you’re just gonna feel like crap and get a headache. Sometimes it’s cool to do this but, you know. Don’t abuse the treat.

Clean up (yourself & the home)!

Yeah. This is another one of those “you see it everywhere” tips, but that’s because it does work. Even if you can only manage to brush your teeth, change your undies, whatever, you’ll feel a bit better. Same goes for your house/apartment/room. Clean a tiny space if it’s all you can do - you’ll feel like you’ve got more breathing room.

Don’t EVER want to shower/bathe?

We’ve been there. It stinks, no pun intended. Personally, I had to think of a great way to encourage myself to get the heck out of bed and bathe - bath bombs.

And not just the regular kind! Glitter, rainbows, especially the ones with little toys inside, those are the best for days I don’t want to wake up and shower. You can even use them (as I just said) in the shower. They act like shower steamers and smell the rooms up nice, too.

Make a “Power Outfit”

It could be a comfy sweatshirt, or animal pajamas (kigurumi). Maybe it’s a really wacky pair of socks or a shirt that features your favorite TV star or character from a series. This could include accessories, like a fun hat, headband, furry tail, superhero cape - whatever will make you feel great. Don’t overthink it. It’s not “weird” to wear what makes you feel better, no matter what.

Hide/buy surprises for yourself!

Again, this is one I absolutely love to do. I scroll around through etsy and eBay a lot as another numbing yet engaging brain exercise, and I look for the cheapest “blind boxes” and/or “surprises”. Blind boxes are packages where you don’t know what’s inside until you open it, just like the name suggests. If this doesn’t bother you, it’s great for buying yourself a surprise. I use this as stocking stuffers for myself, too. Ha.

Of course this works for things like a book you want to read or a puzzle you’d like to do. Maybe even wrap it and leave it in the “gift pile”. Gift yourself when you need a pick me up!

Another of my favorite things are called “surprise balls”. They’re balls of crepe paper strips you unravel, and each layer has a surprise in it. You unroll the rainbow-colored strips, dropping toys, novelty items, etc, as you go. You can unroll one layer at a time or all of them! Find them at etsy, you can even get them customised.

Eat better. Exercise.

Trust me, I used to hate exercising (and when I say “hate”, I mean it). But it makes such a complete difference that I actually miss it when I skip on the weekends! Eating right (whatever is right for you, allergy-wise, dietary preferences, etc) also makes a huge difference. My mood lifted so high without the use of mind-altering drugs at all (societal approved medicine or otherwise).

Aromatherapy

I’ve seen so many people FREAK OUT about this.

Relax. It’s not meant as a “cure-all” no matter what the MLM pushers say, it simply helps a little. And for those of us with a lot of problems, “a little off the top” is really a big help. There are different types of scents for different mood enhancers, but my favorites (bubblegum, lemon, orange) are citrus based because that lifts depression. (Google this if you’re want - there have been tests done researching depression & aromatherapy).

Use wax melts, incense, whatever - and remember that candles can be bought on etsy & elsewhere that have surprises in them, too! You take out the charms and gems and such as the candle burns. Win-win for a little pick me up!

Rainbows

Yeah, I know. I have little crystal rainbow catchers in my windows so that my rooms fill with rainbows throughout the day. You’d be amazed at how many times a surprise rainbow from one of them lifted my heart and made me smile.

They’re not expensive, either. You can pop down to your local craft store and buy them in the beading section. Thread the bead with string or fishing line and hang it up on a suction cup or - really, wherever you can where light will catch!

Wait, did I mention craft stores..?

Arts & Crafts

I may be biased here, but there have been a lot of people that benefit from coloring books and crafts. They’re soothing, but be warned - they’re sometimes not good for mind-wanderers. If you’re “dump-trucking” bad thoughts, a mindless task will NOT be a good thing to do. I sometimes pair crafts and such with watching TV so that my mind and hands are busy at the same time.

Distractions!

Writing

*looks at self in reflection of monitor*

...yep.

This can help not only you, but others. It’s a relief to feel that you’re not alone, and when you come across something that helps you in a moment of need it’s awesome. It feels just as good to let it all out.

Write about your day, your past experiences, your hopes - anything. Heck, write fanfiction where the guys or gals or beings of your dreams help you get through things. Work it out. You don’t have to publish them. It will still feel good. And if you want to record your own in one area, or read specific fics, especially fanfics, I recommend the Archive (and not simply because I write there, ha)!

Television/Movies/Games

Same thing for movies, games & TV. They may distract you, but that means you may get the odd, sneaky thought that creeps in. We all hate those. Oh, and watch out for triggers! Good flipping butt, so many triggers!

There’s a site that helps for tons of triggers (including books, games, etc) called “Does the Dog Die”. I use it constantly when watching new programs or movies.

I personally do toon-fests where I watch so many cartoons, especially kiddie ones like “Molang” (so cute)! And I love using Minecraft for chilling out, game wise. Just, again... watch out for games. Man, they can be a pain sometimes if you’re getting frustrated. Stick with ones that you know are relaxing or you can play on “safe mode”. Don’t try to do a complicated campaign or grab that rare trophy/achievement when you’re stressed.

Music!

Yep. Music lifts spirits. And did you know if you search Google Play they’ve got free stuff? Like, a lot of it you might not want and there are a ton of religious readings, etc (if that’s your thing, then hooray)! But often I’ve found some really nice relaxing music with wave sounds, thunderstorms, etc. Of course you can buy albums too.

Voices

The same goes for voices. They can be very soothing and help you relax. There’s a whole bunch of Play apps where anime dudes and/or chicks talk you to sleep, or say comforting things. Well, technically, they’re real people speaking but there’s images of anime guys and gals. There are all types, so look around.

You could even ask your loved one to make a recording of them speaking to you or reading poetry, etc. It’s very helpful to hear a beloved voice - no matter who it is for you -- in times of need.

Cuddles

Pets, stuffed animals, blankets, fellow humans... hugs help sometimes. Sometimes you really don’t want to be touched, but that stuffed animal or pillow can give you just the right snuggle to lift your mood.

Free stuff!

Every once in awhile I use a throwaway email and go freebie hunting on the internet. A lot of places will give you stickers, samples, and all sorts of stuff for free. If you have a PO Box or don’t mind giving out your address, this works so well. Mail surprises are the awesomest.

#coping #emotional abuse #mental health #mentally ill #mental disorder #IHATEwhenitsaysDISORDERugh #coping mechanism

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daisydaring · 6 years ago

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Cape Town Art Fair Questionnaire :

1. Blank- I recognised some of the artists I had seen before at their gallery like Bronwyn Katz and Igshaan Adams. I also recognised the gallerist Tyra Naidoo. The booth kept to their minimalist style and I felt there were quite a few hanging pieces. I also found it interesting that they had paintings as I’ve never seen that medium in their gallery.

Stevenson- At the booth, I recognised Zander Blom’s and Kemang Wa Lehulere’s work. A similarity to the gallery, I noted, was the use of lots of colour. They also had quite a few paintings.

Goodman- I could not really get a grasp of what was similar and what was not similar to the gallery as I felt there was a lot going on. The booth displayed quite a few different mediums, from sculptural works to photography. The booth felt quite cramped compared to their spacious gallery space.

2. Works I liked:

Cinga Samson

Uboya benye (i)

2019

I always love Cinga’s portraits as I feel they draw the viewer in. The dark, monochromatic palette makes the work feel quite mysterious and spiritual which creates a curiosity around the figure. There is always a delicacy that contrasts the darkness like the use of flowers and the attention to detail of the clothes. The painting makes me think of youth, masculinity and beauty.

Tabita Rezaire

INNER FIRE: Shadelicious, 2017

Diasec print

170 x 100 cm

Edition of 2/5

I really really liked Tabita’s series of prints and I found them quite refreshing compared to a lot of the works at the art fair. I was first drawn to them because of the kitschiness of the bright colour and iconography but I also love how their works explores the format of memes as a way to address gender, racial and political issues.

Gitte Möller

Pushy passion, 2018

Oil and collage on panel

120 x 120 cm

I think Gitte has a very unique painting style and I admire her attention to detail. I think she explores the use of symbolism in an interesting way to create these alternative video game-like worlds. This specific work is very satisfying to me as the composition and use of colour is completely balanced. The linear perspective and symmetry draws all the attention to the bleeding out heart in the centre of the painting which makes the work feel quite vulnerable and even a bit sad.

Works I disliked:

Afshin Pirhashemi

Power , 2013

Oil on canvas

78 7/10 × 118 1/10 in

200 × 300 cm

I struggled with this work because I really did not like the use of colour and painting style. The artist’s work always depicts what I assume to be women from Dubai and this gallery did not have any labels so I assumed the artist was a woman. I thought it was interesting that the fair was showing a woman artist from Dubai who was addressing women’s roles in the country. However, I then later researched the gallery to find out more information about the work only to find out that the work was actually done by a man. With this new knowledge I disliked the work even more.

Kilmany-Jo Liversage

MACHINIKA119

198cm x 198cm

R170 000

Instagram: kilmany_jo

www.worldart.co.za

When I see brightly coloured work painted in a graffiti-like, gestural style my mind just automatically puts into a category of work that I do not like. I just find this kind of work so overrated and commercially driven to the point that I do not even want to engage with it.

Rory Emmett

Future Remnant II

Oil and acrylic on canvas

120 x 90 cm

I did not like how the artist tried to bring colour into this black and white painting. I found this piece quite boring and it kind of remind of something an art student would do in high school. The style is something that at one point was maybe fresh and innovative but now it is overdone and quite out of fashion. To be honest the work felt quite cheap and not in a good way.

3. I found that there were a lot of hanging sculptural pieces similar to Igshaan’s work and quite a few works made with found objects. I also always think there will be a large amount of paintings.

4. Some booths choose to create smaller enclosed spaces will others have one big space. The majority of the booths have white spaces but some choose to have colorful walls. I observed that Smac’s booth furniture resembled wooden school furniture but the rest of booths mostly had slick black or white furniture.

5. Some labels where placed on the floor, some where written in pencil and some where classic placard labels. Quite a few of the labels where placed in perspex with screws and the rest were either stickers or stuck down with double-sided tape or prestick. I found it strange when the labels only gave the name of the artist and not the title of the work. Some label information went into quite detail with dimensions and price.

6. The fair felt bigger than last year but I think that is a result of the layout being more open. The layout of the fair and the signs want the viewer to turn right when coming through the entrance but I felt overwhelmed with which way to go. The main commercial galleries are in the centre of the fair which I think is because the fair knows buyers are coming to see the big names. This allows for people to see the whole fair without heading straight for one areas. The layout also insured there was hardly any congestion. However I also think the layout is designed to guide people to the food and drink areas.

7. The lighting of the fair was neutral but each booth had direct lighting on the hanging works.

8. People visiting the fair were dresses fashionably but formally. Bright colours seemed to be the trend. As for the gallerists and assistants, black, white and neutral colours seemed to be the required dress ware. I think this for them to blend into the booths and to not distract from the work.

9. I would say that the fair is aimed at upperclass art lovers who can afford the expensive food and drink, and maybe even an artwork or two. The types of products being sold were food, drink, art books, art magazines, apparel and accessories relating to the art, and of course the art itself. The fair is targeting wealthy tourists and locals who have the means to indulge in art paraphernalia.

10. Athi-Patra Ruga

The Ever Promised Erection I, 2019

High-density foam, artificial flowers and jewels

Multiple 3 of 3

Approx 126 x 74 x 64 cm

For one, I know Athi’s work sells for large sums of money and the work itself exudes an air of wealth and luxury. The fact that this piece had its own booth tells us that this work is valuable and important. Even though the sculpture is made of artificial flowers and jewels, it feels expensive and the way the light catches on the beads and glitter holds the viewer’s attention. I also witnessed quite a few tour guides stopping at this piece and I found it hard to get a picture of it with the amount of people that surrounded it.

11. Tabita Rezaire

INNER FIRE: Shadelicious, 2017

Diasec print

170 x 100 cm

Edition of 2/5

Tabita’s work in general felt very different from the general work that was showing at the art fair. People I spoke to it about either loved it or thought it was absolutely terrible and that it did not deserve its place at the fair. I feel their work does not fit in because they are using newish form of art that not many people understand or appreciate. The kitschiness of the meme-like text and format is not something you see often in the art world.

12. With a group of peers I found it very easy to ask for prices. I was speaking to Tyra Naidoo, who works at Blank, and she was saying that is not unusual for people to ask for prices and that it is her job to provide that sort of information. However, I found some of the foreign galleries were a bit taken back by us asking prices, as if it was slightly taboo. The prices we gathered were:

Marina Abramovic

Victory

1997

R80 000

Pierre Fouche

Net Ons

2019

R250 000

13. The main sponsor of the art fair is Investec which is an international company which deals with specialist banking and asset management. The sponsorship for food and drink was from Boschendal which is a wine estate.

The target market for Investec could be almost anyone attending the fair, even the tourists as it is an international company. Boschendal’s clientele is most likely wealthy locals and tourists and therefore the art fair is a perfect place for them to promote their brand. Investec can benefit from promoting an art fair because it expresses their support for African culture. It shows that they are invested in the future of South Africa which benefits them as it promotes the idea that Investic is invested in their clienteles future. It also implies that investec is interested in what their clientele is interested in which creates a personal connection.

14. The Cape Town International Convention Centre is a convenient place to hold an event such as the art fair because it has the means to host such a huge event. It is also placed in a accessible location close by to many hotels that could host potential guests from around South Africa and the rest of the world. The centre also hosts events like Comic Con, Cape Town Jazz Festival and various conferences.

15. I actually struggled to find old artworks this year. I think the oldest work I could find, which was somewhere in the 1930s, was in the Norval Foundation booth but I forgot to right down the label information. So I will go with a work from 1952 which was by Albert Newall, ’Untitled’,

watercolour and ink on paper.

16. The youngest artist I knew of was Talia Ramkilawan, 23, who was showing at Smith. I found Smith often takes artists who are straight out of Michaelis.

17. I felt the solo booths were obviously more cohesive as it was one artist’s work. I sometimes felt like the gallery booths were a bit overwhelming or chaotic, where as the solo booths were more effective in the engagement of the artists’ concepts.

18. I think the big names that kept popping up this year were very similar to last year. Georgina Gratrix seemed to be one of the most sought after artists right now. Her work is very on trend, as her use of brightly coloured oil paints makes for an aesthetically pleasing centre piece. I think her thick application of oil paint and her abstraction of the figure intrigues viewers. Her work sits on the line of bad art which makes it so good.

Ed Young is someone who seems to be getting quite a lot of attention this year. The fact that his balloon intervention/performance was the first thing that guests experience when entering the fair shows that he is a trusted enough artist to set the tone for the fair.

19. I think identity as a subject matter is always something you will see a lot of in art fairs because artists often look to themselves to draw inspiration from. I found there was a lot of abstract pieces which focused more on the use of material than on subject. The use of found objects such as toothpicks, dice, and bindis seems to be a common trend this year. I think this is due to the fact that in a postmodern world people are fascinated by using objects and materials for a different purpose than their intended function.

20. I think I would like to be represented by Smith gallery because I like the fact that they are not afraid to take on young artists who are coming straight out of art school. I actually think by doing this their range of work is much more varied and unique because their artists have not yet been manipulated and influenced by the commercial art world.

21. I think I would want to work for Smith based on the fact that they represent a lot of young, emerging artists. I think it would be easier to engage with artists who are of similar ages to me as there will be more of a relatable understanding of what it is like to be an emerging artist in 2019. I think I would want work directly with the artist and the work, so maybe as a curator.

22. A question that came up for me was, why do some galleries choose to not label the work?

23. I think I would want my gallery to show at the fair because it is a great way to get recognition and to network. I like the idea of having one or two solo booths, alongside the main booth, to push artists who have more potential. I think I would play around with different hanging techniques and paint one or two walls a colour that compliments the work. Like Smac, I found it more interesting when the booths felt like multiple spaces and not one empty room. At first I found it quite annoying with some of the galleries created nooks in their booths but I actually think it is a good way to get the viewers to engage with their surroundings and get closer to the art.

#CTAFTASK

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goldeagleprice · 4 years ago

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Buffalo Model for Nickel and Notes

Buffalo Model for Nickels and Notes

Being new at collecting coins, I have to rely on documentation to enlighten me about the coins I collect. The first book about numismatics I bought was the “Red Book,” 72nd edition of 2019. I thought it was a fairly good book with lots of information. Watching various television programming that sell coins also helped to learn about the different coins and paper money in this hobby. The second book I bought was 100 Greatest American Currency Notes. I bought it because it was constantly referenced on the TV shows.

Now I have a question that perhaps you can answer. In the “Red Book” under the Indian Head or Buffalo (1913-1938) in the nickel section it states, “The bison was supposedly modeled after ‘Black Diamond’ in the New York Central Park Zoo.” I have heard this same statement on multiple TV shows when this coin is being sold.

However, in the 100 Greatest American Currency Notes under No. 6, $10 Legal Tender “Bison Note,” series of 1901, it states, “Over a period of time it has been stated that the bison is Black Diamond, who was used on the 1913 to 1938 Buffalo nickel. The trouble with this theory is that Black Diamond is an impostor, and another animal, actually stuffed and in a museum, modeled that particular coin.”

Can you clear this discrepancy up? Is there any documentation you can point to? Or is this just one of those things that will be bantered back and forth in perpetuity?

Edward Alba Ridgecrest, Calif.

Editor’s Note: According to “Coin Clinic” expert Richard Giedroyc:

The best explanation I have seen is by Dennis Hengeveld in the Feb. 12, 2012, posting to news.coinupdate.com, where he says, “It appears that Fraser’s comments later in his life about which animal he based his design on are inaccurate. The most likely candidate is an American Bison named Black Diamond, which resided in New York at the time the design was created.” This, however, is disputed by some, including Q. David Bowers in his Guide Book of Buffalo and Jefferson Nickels. Bowers says that the animal’s head has “its horns set much higher” and seems an unlikely source. Another animal is called Pablo, which was supposed to have been the animal featured on the 1901 $10 note, even though some sources say that this is Black Diamond as well.

Authenticating, Slabbing Downfall of Modern Hobby

At 87 years young with all my facilities strong, I’m a longtime advertiser, and in 2023 will become a 50-year Life Member of the ANA (3096). I really feel sorry for the newcomers to this extraordinary hobby. The Mint, the grading services and the TV hucksters are raking in outrageous profits on overpriced modern coins. Now there’s a basketball coin coming out (whoopie, and other exclamations of phony excitement). I can just picture it … slabbed basketball coins offered with Full Ball Lines! Do you know something? The actual Liberty Bell in Philadelphia does not have full bell lines. But I digress.

When does all this belief that it’s the word of God because it’s “slabbed” end? Modern technology, 3-D printers, Chinese ingenuity and TV hucksters. What next, a Curling coin? Or maybe a golf coin that is slabbed as Deep cameo full dimples, which the new and gullible will eat up at inflated, imaginary prices, only to have their heirs realize that their older generation was duped!

I do not believe that slabs are airtight forever! I’ve seen carbon spots on coins in slabs, that obviously wasn’t there when the coin was graded. What does one do if their MS-66+ CAC, star, etc. 1955 Double Die cent develops a carbon spot down the road? P.T. Barnum was right! Finally, how many adjectives, plus signs, stars, first strikes, autographs, CAC stickers and other excuses to jack up the price will the market think of?

Irv Atkins Henderson, Nev.

Slowed Tourism Means Fewer Coins in Hawaii

The pandemic has impacted the tourism industry in Hawaii and may have resulted in the reduction of new money shipments to the islands. Low demand from businesses for coins and currency has caused many of the major banks in Honolulu to basically recycle existing coin supply and reduce their shipping cost of bringing in coins from the Federal Reserve Bank on the mainland.

The 2019 West Point coin hunt was very successful, with over 500 “W” quarters discovered from brand new rolls. However, 2020 has been very disappointing. I have checked with many of the banks in Honolulu and have not seen any new 2020 quarters, even in circulation as change. The 2020 Salt River Bay quarters have been released for a couple of months now. It can only mean there will be a larger inventory of new 2020 quarters on the mainland. Happy hunting!

Chris T. Honolulu, Hawaii

Next Time, Skip Pencil Eraser to Look for Detail

Mr. Fisher, what a great article about your find of the 1909-S VDB. You made a huge mistake by using a pencil eraser to check for the VDB. The erasure marks reduce the value to less than what you paid for the coin if the erasure discolored the coin. Please go to any coin shop or online and buy some type of magnifying glass to check your next super deal.

J.D. Hollingsworth Carmel, Ind.

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deniscollins · 6 years ago

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Willy Wonka and the Medical Software Factory

If you were a 75 year old CEO of Epic Systems, a $2.7 billion medical software company, would you require that your successor must be an executive who already works for the company, be a software developer, and keep Epic privately held: (1) Yes, (2) No? Why? What are the ethics underlying your decision?

In the farm country of southern Wisconsin, 12 miles from Madison, is one of the nation’s biggest tech companies — and almost certainly the quirkiest. The woman who controls it is a septuagenarian coding savant, its campus contains a human-size rabbit hole and an elevator to hell, and in all probability your personal medical records are on servers running its software.

Epic Systems is a health care services provider with $2.7 billion in annual revenue. Its mathematician chief executive, Judy Faulkner, is a billionaire recluse who hosts P.T. Barnum-esque gatherings for clients. Those clients — big hospitals and health systems around the United States and more than a dozen overseas markets — are served by customer-service representatives known as BFFs. Every month, employees are compelled to gather in a subterranean chamber for two-and-a-half-hour staff meetings that have been likened to a megachurch experience. Workers are discouraged from ordering business materials on Amazon or living more than 45 minutes away from the office, in order to shorten commutes and keep Epic’s wealth in the local economy.

Epic’s software is ubiquitous in doctors’ offices and operating rooms, and companies like Amazon, Microsoft and Alphabet regularly hoover up its young engineers. Yet most people outside of the Madison environs, I’d be confident to say, have never heard of the company.

I certainly hadn’t. I cover Wall Street, not health care or technology, and when I came across the privately held Epic this year I was consumed with questions. Who was this publicity-shy yet spectacle-loving C.E.O., and how did her theme-park sensibility coexist with the mundanity of health care billing protocols? Was Epic’s odd culture a magnet for talent and clients, or was it an indulgence that kept the company from growing even bigger? In August, I traveled to Wisconsin to see what this 1,100-acre Midwestern behemoth might be hiding.

Cookies and tree houses

When I arrived in Epic’s hometown, Verona, two beaming receptionists at the Fairfield Inn tried to offer me something called the “Epic discount.” When I said I couldn’t accept anything of value from the company, they clarified that the special rate was a gesture of gratefulness from the hotel, on account of the huge proportion of guests who come to do business with Epic. It is by far the dominant player in Verona, where the population of 10,600 is comparable to the company’s head count of 9,800.

Epic’s headquarters were a short drive away, down a meandering road through countryside dotted with Queen Anne’s lace and farm equipment. I drove past a giant Tin Man, the first indication of the campus’s fairy-tale aesthetic, and into guest parking, in one of the campus’s few aboveground lots.

There was virtually no security. I walked past a sculpture of Humpty Dumpty, set on a wall and typing away on an Epic laptop, past the warning against carrying concealed weapons (Wisconsin allows them in most public venues), and into reception. I was asked to sign an old-fashioned guest book, given a “Hello! My name is” sticker and a few pages of directions, and told I could wander the campus’s 25 buildings and numerous footpaths on my own.

The design theme was childish even by the standards of technology start-ups, where ball pits and scooters are common. I paused at the Cavey Den, a hollowed-out treehouse with stumps for seats and children’s books, then rocked on a rocking horse and ate a cookie from a jar, wondering what time was set aside for naps. There was a long series of clay slabs with handprint impressions from longtime employees, and walls and walls of art sourced from Wisconsin-area artists: a dragon perched in an iron bird cage; expanses of blue and purple stained glass; a clock featuring manicured poodles and Cupid; an old-timey circus ad painted on canvas.

The diversions went beyond art. At the Black Dragon cafe, which was next to an informal band-practice area, a sandwich board advertised oatmeal for 75 cents and bacon for $1. Along the Indiana Jones tunnel, decorated with vines and a golden idol, the sound of dripping water and roaring animals played in a constant loop. A conference room named after a Star Wars planet was reached via a rickety swinging bridge. All around me, young workers in shorts and band T-shirts hurried past. (The company’s dress code is that when visitors are on campus, wear clothes.)

The next morning, I woke up feeling off: a throat infection I’d been treating with antibiotics seemed to be getting worse. Verona, while long on breweries, day cares, artisanal pizza and jumbo mortgages, lacks an urgent-care clinic, so I drove into nearby west Madison for some attention.

The clinic I found was, naturally, running on an Epic system that logged me in, took my information and tracked my health statistics. The nurse’s assistant who saw me had visited Epic during her training, as do many medical professionals who work with its technology as part of their jobs.

Epic’s reach is, well, epic. Its systems contain records for more than 50 percent of United States medical patients. It is a major software provider to big health systems like Memorial Sloan Kettering, the Mayo Clinic, Cedars-Sinai and University of Utah Health, as well as scores of doctor’s offices and smaller clinics. Its applications handle functions both complex and straightforward, from the emergency room to the bills sent to patient homes. They calibrate drug dosages, monitor vital signs, match blood types, anticipate infection symptoms, and keep tumor measurements. Epic software is elemental to everything from transplants to cesarean sections.

Once you know what Epic does in health care, you see it everywhere. When I left the urgent-care center, diagnosed with a gnarly case of strep, the summary printout I was given was branded on one corner with Epic’s insignia.

Coders who don’t mind a little blood and gore

The next day, back at company headquarters, I sat in one of the less Montessori-style conference rooms with Steve Dickmann, 72, the chief administrative officer. He became animated when explaining some of the more functional, less fantastical features of the space. “The whole campus is designed to promote productivity, creativity, comfort,” he said.

There was a philosophy behind everything. All employees have offices, because studies show that workers in open floor plans get interrupted frequently. Stairs promote socialization, but buildings can’t be more than three stories, because workers are reluctant to climb more than a flight or two. Every conference room must have windows so that visitors don’t feel hemmed in during days and days of training.

The overriding mission, Mr. Dickmann said, was to ensure the safety of patients at facilities that use Epic software. If health care programmers make mistakes, he said, “bad things can happen.”

Epic’s coders often leave campus to embed in operating and recovery rooms, where they watch nurses ripping the tops off blood bags and surgeons opening up people’s chest cavities. It’s an experience that young engineers are unlikely to get at, say, Facebook or Snap, working on algorithms that tailor ads to demographic groups or insert rainbow vomit into photographs.

Programmers regularly faint at the sight of beating hearts, scalpels and bodily fluids. “There were people that would pass out in the hallway” of hospitals, said Aaron Webb, who worked at Epic for 10 years as a software developer. He watched “hundreds” of surgeries, often with his team in tow, before moving to Seattle, where he now works for a business that matches companies with storage space. “But if you can’t understand what your users are going through, you’re not going to design a good system.”

Epic works its more than 5,000 programmers hard. Middle-of-the-night technical crises, stress-related illness and employees weeping from exhaustion in airport lounges are not uncommon, say former employees. Long hours are expected. One piece of company lore has it that during a construction project, Ms. Faulkner questioned a plan to install motion-activated light switches, noting that employees might be sitting still at their desks for such long stretches that they’d frequently find themselves in the dark. (The sensors were installed, and she was proved correct.)

“The volume of work at Epic, regardless of what role you’re in, is very high,” said Jacob Lewis, who was a technical writer at Epic before he left in 2014. He later sued the company over unpaid overtime. His case, a class-action suit that hinged on the obligation to sign an employee agreement that forced workers into arbitration, rather than litigation, was combined with similar cases and was heard by the Supreme Court last year. The workers lost.

This combination of chaotic, stressful client visits and isolating, mundane office work might explain the company’s Disney dimension. Epic is a place where wedding music plays on a campuswide public-announcement system when new clients are signed. Dry-cleaning services are found at the “New York Sock Exchange.” Employees can hurtle down an “Alice in Wonderland” slide into a room with miniature furniture. They are encouraged to visit a conference room encased by waterfalls and a shark pond when in need of inspiration. (The shark is fake.) Internal awards for outstanding work are named after Jack Bauer and MacGyver.

The benefits of disattention

A few hours after my sit-down with Mr. Dickmann, I was granted an audience with Ms. Faulkner herself. We met in her personal conference room, a place of warm earth tones, steaming hot tea and personal memorabilia, including a copy of the prayer “Desiderata” with faux-burned margins mounted on a wall. “I think we save many, many, many lives a year,” she told me.

Ms. Faulkner, who bears the same shy, distracted demeanor as Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg, was wearing a long-sleeved T-shirt and a crocheted cardigan. She is soft-spoken and literal in conversation. But once a year, at her annual client meeting, she dresses up as the Mad Hatter or a wizard and gives an inspirational talk to an audience of thousands. This year, the theme was camp: She dressed up as a park ranger and told a story about catching frogs with her bare hands on a hiking trip and eating them for dinner.

Born in 1943, Ms. Faulkner said she taught herself to code in a week, using a Fortran textbook, during her undergraduate years at Dickinson College. As a graduate student in computer science at the University of Wisconsin, she conceived a prototype for Epic while sitting in her living room one day in the mid-1970s.

“The sun was shining, I was disattentive, I was just sitting there and suddenly it all came to me: Here’s how you build it,” she said. “And I remember running into the kitchen, grabbing a pad of paper and just writing code, code, code, code,” she said. While she went on to teach computer science for a period, she kept coming back to the idea, and in 1979, in a Madison basement, she founded what would become Epic: a start-up called Human Services Computing. Today, some of Epic’s foundational programming still bears Ms. Faulkner’s initials.

Ms. Faulkner is now 75, and over the last four years, the company she built has grown an average of 14 percent a year, according to revenue figures it shared with The Times. She has instructed her heirs (she has three children) and stock-holding employees, who together constitute a majority of the company’s equity holders, that they must always vote their shares in favor of keeping Epic private. They must also ensure that Epic is run by an executive who already works for the company, and that that person is a software developer.

That decision-making may not occur for a while. It’s “more likely that I’d die than that I’d retire,” she said.

We talked about her “10 commandments” and other principles for doing business, which are hung in most public spaces around campus and discussed in detail at the monthly staff meetings. Ms. Faulkner said that staying private ensures the company can make decisions without public shareholder pressure — such as forgoing revenue when a client’s facilities are damaged by severe weather and it can’t afford to pay software maintenance fees for a time. Avoiding both debt and budgets is another Faulkner goal. But she leaves the enforcement of these principles to lieutenants, preferring to focus on software and customer relations.

“I look at our financial information maybe for a minute a month,” she said.

One criticism that has dogged Epic is that its software sometimes won’t connect with that of competitors, meaning that patient information can’t move around as seamlessly as it should. The company has chipped away at the problem in recent years, but much remains to be done.

“The problem isn’t the lack of effort, it’s the lack of standards,” said Jim Turnbull, the chief information officer for the University of Utah system and a longtime Epic client. “Until the federal government and all the vendors recognize that we have too many standards, I just don’t think it’s going to be possible to completely interoperate,” he said, using the industry term for connectivity.

The day after meeting with Ms. Faulkner, I took a final tour of Epic with its head of media relations, Meghan Roh, who was hired in 2017 as the first person ever to occupy that position. We went down a slide connecting the ground floor of a building called Heaven, with a white interior, to a lower level with an elevator whose floors were marked Devil, Satan, Lucifer, Beelzebub and Mephistopheles. (When you press a button, you hear audio of an imaginary demon saying, “Please come in. It’s nice and toasty in here.”)

Underground is also where you’ll find Epic’s auditorium. Built partly to preserve the sightlines on campus and minimize water and waste runoff, the gathering place hosts the Verona high school’s annual graduation ceremony as well as Epic’s monthly staff meetings, at which attendance is required. On the way in, employees are served popcorn and coffee, an homage to an earlier point when the company used movie theaters for large meetings, and shown a reel of pictures of recent staff weddings, newborn babies and beloved pets. Then they hear presentations on new products and priorities, matters of company philosophy, and new “armies” being formed for employees to brainstorm software-based solutions to epidemics like the opioid crisis and maternal morbidity.

Workers who fully commit to Epic — who survive the long hours and grisly sights — are treated to a remarkable perk. After five years, they get a sabbatical, including round-trip airfare for two to travel somewhere they’ve never been for a month, plus a per diem for meals and lodging. (They get another sabbatical after 10 years, 15, and so on.)

Epic is constantly scanning the undergraduate ranks for new hires. Rather than sticking to engineer incubator schools like M.I.T. or Stanford, it scouts institutions like Carleton College in Minnesota and Clemson University in South Carolina. Candidates take online tests to gauge their problem-solving skills and, if they pass muster, are whisked to Madison for an on-campus interview and tour of the area.

Once on board, employees take a multiweek training course that includes basic business etiquette as well as Epic-specific skill building. Officials preach a flat structure in which it’s never O.K. to turn down colleagues for help. They also teach a tactic called “badgering” — remember, it’s Wisconsin — or the art of being persistent but not maddening.

Epic’s broad recruiting strategy and perks help draw people in, but over time, it’s the cultures of both Wisconsin and Epic that help keep people there.

“The only reason I left Epic was so that my family could move out West,” said Mr. Webb, the former Epic programmer. “Every day was different. And it was fun. And just being able to go see the impact you were having, that was really, really cool.”

#Epic

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lindatmoore-blog · 7 years ago

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Best Miter Saw Blades for 2018 – The Ultimate Buyer's Guide and Reviews

Hoping to purchase the best miter saw sharp edges for your woodcutting ventures? Your most logical option is to pick among these main 5 options.When miter saws initially turned out, they weren't generally all that good.That's the reason experts and DIYers who organized precision over movability weren't too taken with them.

These days the nature of premium miter saw cutting edges is awesome. The main issue is that frequently the saw cutting edges that accompany these models aren't all that great.That's the reason in the wake of purchasing a brilliant miter saw, the vast majority tail it up by purchasing the best miter saw sharp edge for their saw.

Truly, it isn't so much that simple to pick the right cutting edges among such huge numbers of choices. Indeed, a few people simply ensure that it comes in the correct size (regardless of whether 10-inch or 12-inch) for the miter saw.That's on account of there are an excessive number of variables to consider while picking saw sharp edge, and even experts can get somewhat befuddled.

Picking the Right Saw Blade - Things to Consider

On the off chance that you need to get the required exactness and precision when dealing with your carpentry extends, the mystery is having the best miter saw cutting edges. There are diverse kinds of miter saw edges out there all intended to deal with particular ventures. It is essential on the off chance that you know a couple of things about the sharp edges so you can pick the best for your undertakings. This is the reason I influenced this manual for help you to know how to pick the correct miter saw cutting edge.

Saw Blade Types

The principal thing that you have to know before you make your buy is that there are diverse kinds of miter saw cutting edges. The sort of observed that pick will exceptionally rely upon the kind of venture you need to do. The accompanying are the absolute most normal sorts of sharp edges accessible.

Responding saw edges Perfect on the off chance that you have a responding saw. These sharp edges are perfect for cutting drywall, wood, metal and significantly more.

Roundabout saw cutting edges The edges are awesome for tilting work. They can be utilized to slice through stone work, wood, and metal.

Fine cut edges Perfect for overlaid chipboards, plywood, wood center plywood and significantly more.

Course cut edges The sharp edges are perfect for sheets, softwood, and hardwood.

Course cut edges the best pick for hard materials like metal and stone work.

Edge Material

Saw edges are additionally accessible in various materials. The greater part of them are made of steel. Cutting edges made of steel are somewhat costly and they get dull rapidly. You can likewise get carbide tipped sharp edges that are additionally costly and enduring. Another kind of cutting edge material that is normal is sharp edges with a modern jewel wrap up. They are ideal for earthenware and brick work tiling.

Size and Thickness

It is additionally extraordinary in the event that you think about the thickness and the length of the saw cutting edge. For example, on the off chance that you need a cutting edge that can cut speedier and more keen, think about a more slender sharp edge. On the off chance that you need a strong edge that can slice through metal, go for a thicker edge.

You can get the sharp edges in various sizes from 5 crawls to 12 inches. Each size of the cutting edge is appropriate for a particular saw. It is critical on the off chance that you check the archives that accompany your miter saw with the goal that you can know the correct sharp edge size to pick.

Kind of Teeth

This is likewise another imperative thought to consider when purchasing the best miter saw sharp edge. On the off chance that you lean toward bigger cuts, search for a miter saw cutting edge with less teeth. The teeth are likewise accessible in various kinds going from level best teeth (ideal for tearing wood), top angle teeth and mix teeth (ideal for tearing and cross-cutting).

What Type of Saw Do You Have

You additionally need to know the sort of observed that you have. In as much as you can utilize the sharp edge in excess of one device, it doesn't make a difference dependably. Do you have a round or a table saw? Each observed has a particular kind of cutting edge that is suggested. You can check the bundling or on the edge to enable you to know which one will work fine.

Choosing the best observed edge gives you achievement when dealing with carpentry ventures. Subsequent to experiencing the above guide, I trust you won't experience difficulty picking the best miter saw cutting edge. Regardless of whether you are cutting hardboard, plastic, plywood or some other material, you can without much of a stretch select the best observed sharp edge for that specific errand. I would suggest burning through cash on a quality saw regardless of whether it is somewhat pricy. Over the long haul, it will spare you significantly from wear and tear so you won't need to make visit replacements.To enable you to out, here are some fantastic alternatives you can pick from so you can get the opportunity to work with your miter saw immediately.

Recommended Best Miter Saw Blades Reviews

Amana Tool A.G.E. Arrangement:

This cutting edge measures 8.5 inches, so it's intended for littler sliding compound miter saws. It's another fine case of German building and fabricate. You don't need to stress over form quality, since it's not made in a nation where fetched cutting is more essential than the nature of the item.

With this cutting edge, you can expect an astounding completion whether you're chipping away at delicate or hard wood materials. With the 60 teeth on the sharp edge, you can make better cuts, and it's optimal for making crosscuts on common wood. It's an ATB (interchange top slope) sharp edge, so it's extraordinary additional fine crosscutting for strong wood.

However, you can likewise utilize it for crosscutting and tear cutting on synthetic materials like medium-thickness fiberboard and plywood, which more often than not don't include an all around characterized grain structure. It doesn't bring about chip-out even with these materials.

It includes a - 3 degree snare, so the cutting edge doesn't chomp the material forcefully and doesn't "climb" the wood. This is appropriate for sliding miter saws, so you can work all the more securely.

The thin kerf sharp edge lessens the measure of material you squander when you make your cuts, and it likewise doesn't require excessively strength to turn. It likewise includes laser cut development spaces, so the sharp edge can extend and contract from the warmth, which shields the edge from twisting.

The edge accompanies vast carbide tips, so you can resharpen the cutting edge more circumstances previously you have to supplant it. It really accompanies a restricted lifetime ensure.

DEWALT DW3128P5 80 Tooth

Dewalt makes great miter saws, so it's not astounding that it additionally makes fantastic miter saw cutting edges. This Dewalt DW3128P5 12-inch sharp edge set is very prominent, as it can be utilized to make quick, exact, and smooth cuts on a wide assortment of materials. You can utilize it on chipboard or plywood, and on delicate and hard woods.This set is really a couple of cutting edges. One accompanies 80 teeth for additional fine cuts, while the 32-tooth sharp edge is

More appropriate for tear cutting. They're both thin kerf edges, so you don't require as much pull to turn them. You additionally don't wind up with a lot of squandered material transforming into sawdust.

The edge tips are made of tungsten and carbide, so they remain sharp for a more drawn out time and you won't need to resharpen the cutting edges too as often as possible. The sharp edges likewise include a plate absolutely adjusted by a PC, so you don't get as much vibration. This gives you a superior complete for your cuts, and the exactness of your cuts doesn't endure.

The two sharp edges have more steel behind every cutting edge tip, because of the wedge bear outline. With that much steel behind the tips, the edges are less inclined to break, and you get a great deal of exactness as well. This accompanies a 3-year guarantee. Be that as it may, for the vast majority, the Dewalt mark is all that anyone could need of a certification for its quality and sturdiness.

Freud D12100X 100 Tooth:

This is a standout amongst the most mainstream cutting edges for 12-inch miter saws, and pretty much every client audit for it has sung its gestures of recognition with idealize scores. It accompanies an excellent sticker price, yet the superior highlights are incredible. Above all else, you don't need to stress over getting fine cuts. With the 100 teeth on the cutting edge, getting superfine cuts isn't precisely an issue.

It resembles utilizing a warmed samurai sword on margarine. You won't get any fraying even with hardwood materials. Your cuts can be thin to the point that you can see through the fragments of wood. They're likewise so smooth that the wood has just been sanded by ultrafine sandpaper.

With the outline of the edge, conveying these cuts doesn't require much exertion. You don't squander as much material and you truly advance the adequacy of your miter saw. The outline additionally includes stabilizer vents cut by lasers, which lessen the vibration to keep the sharp edge unfaltering and your cuts exact and smooth.

These vents even trap the commotion so you don't make a ruckus each time you're working.Don't overanalyze why this Freud D12100X. Simply get one for your miter saw, and you'll feel and see the distinction immediately.

IRWIN Tools Classic Series:

Bunches of woodcutters get a kick out of the chance to stock distinctive cutting edges for various purposes, and that can be a costly gathering on the off chance that you stay with premium edge brands. In any case, this Irwin cutting edge is to a great degree reasonable, so it should fit even a humble spending plan. This is a 10-inch sharp edge with ⅝-inch arbor.

It offers 180 teeth (check them in the event that you need), and it's made of substantial measure, high-carbon steel.It's sufficiently intense to slice through mellow steel without making sparkles fly. It's additionally sufficiently extreme to keep going for quite a while.

With the thin kerf plan (0.09" kerf), your cuts are extremely smooth and precise, and you keep the squandered material from your slices to a base. It includes a completely solidified plate, so it will run valid for a more drawn out timeframe. So do you tend to cut bunches of metal sheets? On the off chance that that is the situation, at that point these Irwin edges will carry out the activity neatly and rapidly. At this value extend, it's a flat out take

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robertkstone · 7 years ago

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2017 BMW M760i xDrive First Test Review: The V-12 Bavarian Brute

“I don’t like big cars,” I told fellow associate online editor Collin Woodard. “If I am going to review or own a big vehicle, it better be one of the biggest and most comfortable in the segment. Small, fun-to-drive cars are my thing.” Well, it’s like they say—you get what you ask for. When I learned that the very large and very powerful BMW M760i was coming my way, my love for huge cars feverishly returned, and for good reason. This is BMW’s largest, most powerful, and quickest vehicle (at least, until the M5 arrives), not to mention the automaker’s most powerful production car ever. Additionally, with a starting price of $159,395, this is the most affordable V-12 on the market and one of very few V-12-powered sedans available. This is not an M7 (we hope BMW creates one soon), but it almost feels and sounds like one would.

The Powertrain

Absolutely and without a doubt, the V-12 is the centerpiece of the M760i. The N74B66 V-12 engine is the same one used by Rolls-Royce for its Ghost, Wraith, and Dawn models but tuned to different power outputs. In the M760i, the 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V-12 churns out an impressive 601 hp at 5,500 rpm and 590 lb-ft of torque at just 1,550 rpm and is backed by a smooth-shifting ZF eight-speed automatic. That just tops the Alpina B7’s 600 hp made from its 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8. The V-12 features iron-coated aluminum pistons, forged connecting rods assembled using the cracking process, and a forged crankshaft. The two mono-scroll turbochargers are tucked in on the outside of the two rows of six cylinders, and the air-to-water heat exchangers use an additional water pump. The M sport exhaust system was designed to be as straight as possible in order to reduce backpressure and is equipped with rear silencers and exhaust flaps for quiet cruising or for acceleration runs that wake up the neighborhood. At low rpms, the engine emits a nice but menacing burble; press hard on the right pedal, and the twin-turbocharged V-12 roars out a unique and well-tuned exhaust note.

The Performance

This BMW has so much power it could climb a wall. You are never in need of more power, even in Eco Pro mode. With the slightest touch of the throttle, the sedan shoots forward with authority. Considering the 5,036-pound curb weight, hitting 60 mph in a Motor Trend–tested 3.4 seconds and the quarter mile in 11.7 seconds at 120.1 mph is a feat that any automaker would be proud of. Let’s put these figures into some perspective. The outrageous 650-hp 2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE equipped with the six-speed manual matches the M760i’s quarter-mile time but is down 0.2 second on the 0–60 run. AMG’s flagship, the 577-hp AMG GT R, matches the BMW’s 0–60 time but hits the quarter mile 0.3 second faster. The 645-hp 2016 Dodge Viper ACR also hit 60 mph in 3.4 seconds and beats the M760i to the quarter mile by only 0.2 second. What about electric? The Tesla Model X P90D crossover (532 hp, 713 lb-ft of torque) equals the 0–60 run but manages a quarter mile just 0.2 second faster. With the exception of the Model X, all the above sports cars weigh less than 4,000 pounds. For more perspective, the following vehicles are slower than the BMW M760i in both 0–60 and quarter-mile times in Motor Trend testing: the 600-hp Aston Martin DB11, the 577-hp Mercedes-AMG SL63, the 626-hp Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible, the 493-hp BMW M4 GTS, the 640-hp Cadillac CTS-V, the 621-hp Mercedes-AMG S65 coupe, and both the Charger and Challenger Hellcats (the Challenger Hellcat tied the 11.7-second quarter-mile run).

The large M sport brakes are strong and stopped the premium German sedan from 60 mph in just 111 feet. The M760i is built for the autobahn, but we flogged it around our figure-eight course anyway and recorded a respectable time of 24.7 seconds with an average 0.82 g. “A powerful car, for sure, and remarkably quick for its scale,” testing director Kim Reynolds said. “However, I had an awkward time trying to maintain a cornering pose around the skidpad’s arcs. It would understeer—I’d force it to oversteer—then it would relapse to understeer.” Regardless, the behemoth of a sedan handles its large size and heavy weight very well when pushed hard on the streets.

The Paint

Frozen Dark Brown Metallic is the official name of the exterior color, and it is striking—one of the best features of the sedan. Heads will turn, not because it’s a BMW 7 Series but because of the frozen metallic paintwork. The paint almost looks like a professionally done and well-chosen full vehicle wrap—not to degrade it in any way. Double takes are common, even from my fellow automotive journalists, and I even caught a passerby in a parking lot touching the paint and gazing at it with his eyeballs just inches from it. The paint feels slightly textured and has a matte sheen that is rarely seen on vehicles. Without a doubt, the $5,200 paint job makes the M760i stand out even more from a crowded parking lot. According to BMW, the paint incorporates a base layer for grip and corrosion protection, a color layer, and a clear lacquer finish with added silicates to create the matted look and a velvet effect that can be felt. This type of paint is just as durable as traditional paint, but there are strict BMW guidelines for washing and caring for the paint.

The Back Seat

For individuals who like to get driven around, the front passenger seat is not where you should be. Instead, the back seat—more specifically behind the front passenger—is the most comfortable and entertaining place to be in the car. The Gentleman Function feature highlights that fact. It’s a button located by the driver and by the rear passenger-side seat. Pressing the button will allow you to adjust the front passenger seat with your seat controls, giving the rear passenger as much legroom as desired. If someone is sitting in that front passenger seat, this can make for a very enjoyable time for you and a lot of annoyance for them.

Unlike most vehicles I review, I spent a lot of time in the back seat. After opening the long and heavy rear door, I sat on the optional and luxurious full Merino perforated leather upholstery. I immediately hit the button that lounges out the seat as much as possible and rolled up the power rear and side window sun shades. I then turned on the heated seats (also ventilated), chose the “full body” massaging function, adjusted the ambient lighting, and chose my favorite radio station, all through the removable 7.0-inch tablet located in the huge center armrest, which also houses the seat controls, cupholders, a storage compartment, and charging ports. I rested my head on the soft headrest pillow and enjoyed the comfortable ride and premium Harman Kardon audio system. I could have also opted to entertain myself on one of two screens perched on the backs of the front seats or check myself in the large and lighted rear vanity mirrors. The rear seat is truly the place to be—unless, of course, you like driving a V-12 BMW.

The Daily Life

With a sticker price of $171,895 and that very special but easily damaged paint, this car should be parked in a garage. Because of the size, street parking wouldn’t be sensible anyway. Living in a humble Los Angeles apartment, I only had street parking, but I wasn’t about to do that. So I called my neighbor and asked if I could use his garage for a few days. Unfortunately, the BMW didn’t fit, thanks to L.A.’s abundance of old buildings with small garages. This sedan is 206.6 inches long, a little over 17 feet. I then called my other neighbor, Aaron, who has a small private parking lot behind his house. Once I explained what vehicle it was, he happily obliged.

My initial drive in the third-most expensive car I have ever driven was quite white-knuckled in traffic, but I quickly adjusted to the dimensions of the sedan. I knew that I had a suite of driver-assist systems on my side. There was something else I noticed on my maiden drive and for the next few days: Heads were turning. It’s not the quick, break-your-neck kind of turns that exotic sports cars attract but instead an initial glance followed by a long, gleaming stare, as if I were driving a moving stereogram. The combination of the mysterious paint, the V-12 badge, the M badge, and the sheer size of the 7 Series were probably the culprits for the long looks. Also, this powerful sedan will quickly, comfortably, and quietly hit triple-digit speed on the highway before you realize it, so it requires your full attention. I also avoided small parking lots and tight alleys, not wanting to risk any kind of damage to the body and especially to the paint.

The Result

The BMW 760i comes standard with a long list of features, including 20-inch double-spoke light alloy wheels (245/40 font, 275/35 rear tires), Icon adaptive full LED headlights, 20-way power multicontour heated and ventilated front seats, rear comfort seats, Nappa leather upholstery, illuminated doorsills with a V-12 logo, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround sound audio system, a display key with an LCD touchscreen, navigation with a 10.2-inch center display, a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a full-color head-up display, a self-parking system, gesture control, Active Comfort Drive with Road Preview, front and rear air suspension with dynamic damper control, and a surround-view camera system with 3-D view. Our tester came equipped with the Frozen Dark Brown Metallic paint, the $4,000 Cashmere Beige and Black Full Merino leather interior combination, the $1,700 Driver Assistance Plus II package, the $1,800 Luxury Rear Seating package, and the $2,700 rear-seat entertainment system. There’s also a $1,700 gas guzzler tax (13/20 mpg city/highway). With a sub-$175K price tag, that’s not too shabby, especially when you include the 601-hp 12-cylinder engine.

It’s hard to complain about this vehicle, but there are a few issues. I was not that impressed with the Active Assistant Driving Plus and Active Lane Keeping Assistant features. The systems had a hard time staying in the lane at the end of a highway curve, and I soon got tired of fighting it and turned it off. At this price level, driver-assist safety features such as blind-spot warning should be standard. The sedan does not comes with a traditional rear cross-traffic warning system. Instead, the car will reverse brake for you but will not warn you ahead of time like traditional systems in less expensive cars do. The interior is of very high quality, but the design is slightly boring when compared to rivals. Ashtrays! I counted three of them. Not sure why those are still around taking up usable space. Who would want to stink up that full Merino leather anyway?

There are many luxuriously powerful cars out there with loads of features and technology, even more so with the BMW’s high price tag. Models such as the Mercedes-AMG S63 sedan, Audi S8, and the new Jaguar XJR 575 all have similar power outputs and very similar performance numbers but cost a bit less. So why buy the M760i? Besides the myriad standard features and the astonishing paint job, it’s really all about that V-12 engine. As silly as that sounds, V-12s are prestigious in the automotive world, and people are willing to pay for them, partly for the rarity and for the panache that accompanies any 12-cylinder engine. Mercedes-AMG charges a cool $70K premium to upgrade from its V-8-powered AMG S63 to the V-12-powered AMG S65 in the S-Class Coupe, and it’s not even quicker. When you have a V-12 under your hood, it means something. A V-8 is nice, but a V-12 is truly something special.

IFTTT

#IFTTT #PerformanceJunk WP Feed 3

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motel--california · 8 years ago

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What if you want to ask all of the questions?

Then I guess I’ll have to answer all of them

1- Tell me about your favorite person.I don’t really have one single favorite person, so I’ll just do one of my best friends. She’s so much fun to hang out with and I love talking to her. She always is the one to start conversations which is good since I’m always too lazy to be the one to hit other people up. I met her at a summer camp on Lookout Mountain (a mountain partially in NW Georgia) and we’ve kept talking since then. She loves to make jokes and is so funny and she absolutely loves playing tennis and anything tennis related

2- What was the last book you’ve read and finished?I’m currently reading Half a King, which is a fantasy book by a really good author that I love, Joe Abercrombie, but the last book I finished is A Dance of Chaos by David Dalglish. It’s the last book in the Shadowdance series and it’s SO GOOD. It’s also fantasy and not only is the plot really good but 2 characters are revealed be bi and get in a relationship, and that makes any book better. (There’s also a trans girl in a previous book in the series)

3- What is the weirdest scar you have and how did you get it? I don’t have any particularly weird scars, but I do have one that I got because I thought to myself “if I scratch this skin really hard, I wonder if it’ll scar”. It did scar and it hasn’t faded at all even though I’ve had it for roughly a year. It wasn’t even itchy or anything, I just wanted to know if it would scar, which was kinda dumb. It’s this dark line on the bottom of my left leg near my ankle.

4- Recommended Netflix shows?Definitely Breaking Bad and Jane the Virgin. I’ve recently started Bates Motel and it’s also incredibly good and so is The Walking Dead.

5- If you could trade lives with one person for an entire day who would it be and why?Probably some billionaire’s kid who doesn’t have to work and just has fun all day long but isn’t so young that they have to go to school. Tbh id love to experience that lifestyle even if it’s just for a day

6- Do you believe in miracles?Not really. I’m not religious so I don’t believe there’s a spiritual force that can create things like miracles

7- Snorkeling, sky diving, bunjee jumping, or zip lining? I’d prefer snorkeling and zip lining. I’ve gone snorkeling before on a family vacation to Panama City Beach and saw a group of manta rays while doing it which was v cool, but I haven’t done the others. Zip lining sounds like tons of fun, but something where you’re just falling straight down is too scary for me

8- How do you take your coffee?I don’t drink coffee. I actually really don’t like it even though I feel I should since you’re supposed to like it once you get older but I just don’t. Sometimes I’ll see coffee in a vending machine or somebody will bring some for an event and I’ll think “well maybe this time I’ll like it” and I don’t no matter how much cream or sugar I put in. I’ve tried coffee tons of times since that age when everybody else starts liking it and it’s always bad to me, unless it’s that coffee ice cream from Bruster’s which is really good.

9- All expense paid vacation to…?Normally I’d say something like somewhere in the Rocky Mountains since I’ve never been and would love to see it (Well I went to Colorado for a huge family reunion that happens every 5 years but that was when I was like 4 so it doesn’t really count although it took place in a cabin in the mountains), but if it’s all expenses paid, might as well go for the most expensive vacation I can think of. So probably some kind of private island resort in the Caribbean or something like that

10- Favorite homemade food?Probably pot stickers. Idk if people know what they are but they’re fried dumplings

11- What is something you’ve always wanted to try but have been too scared to?I guess opening up to people. Like there are so many things I want to tell my friends but I just don’t even though I know they’re there for me and all that. I mean I know there’s absolutely no reason at all why I shouldn’t, but still I’m kinda scared to I guess

12- What accomplishments are you most proud of?Idk? I always score in like the top 1% on standardized tests like the ACT but I don’t really have a ton of things I did I’m super proud of.

13- If you were going to go to the movies alone, what type of movie would you want to see?I prefer action movies, or anything with Maisie Williams in it because she is absolutely amazing.

14- Dream job?Don’t know for sure, but I’d say an audiologist. It’s what I think I’ll probably be once I graduate college, since I’ve always leaned towards the medical field and audiologists are supposed to have one of the least stressful jobs

15- What is your favorite physical attribute about yourself?Idk my dimples I guess? I have them on both sides and get complimented on them a lot

16- Favorite vacation spot?The Blue Ridge Mountains, since as a little kid my parents would take me there a lot and also it’s so pretty there. The air is so clean, the views are amazing, and you can see way more stars than in the suburbs and even the Milky Way and it’s beautiful

17- Where is your favorite place to go to on a weekday afternoon when you have no plans?The movie theater, where there’s also this very good Mediterranean cafe that I love getting dinner at before a movie

18- What are you waiting for at this very moment? It’s 1:30 am and I’m waiting to feel sleepy cause I accidentally took a nap from 7 till 11 and now I can’t sleep

19- Five favorite songs!This isn’t in any particular order, but my top 5 are:1- We Sink by Of Monsters and Men2- The Boxer by Jerry Douglas3- This is way more than one song, but Mumford & Son’s entire discography, especially Tompkins Square Park, Dust Bowl Dance, Only Love, Thistle & Weeds, Lovers’ Eyes, Broken Crown, Roll Away Your Stone, Timshel, After the Storm, Wilder Mind, and Hot Gates4- 93 Million Miles by Jason Mraz5- Hopeless Opus by Imagine Dragons

20- You have thirty seconds to tell the world anything you want. What do you say?I’d get some company to pay me millions of dollars to give an advertisement. I mean if each Super Bowl ad is about $5 mil, then imagine how much money i could make by giving an ad to the entire world. Yeah it seems kinda selfish to do that instead of something like “I love all my friends so much uwu” but still. All that money.

21- Favorite Disney movie?The Lion King, since I love the songs and the story so much. I even went and saw the musical when I visited New York since the movie was so good

22- What is your favorite board game or card game?Extreme spoons (i feel like most people don’t know what it is, but it’s just like regular spoons except the objects are hidden around the room and you have to get up and find them or they’re really far away and you have to run to them) or Uno

23- What did you love most about the place you grew up? I don’t really have something for this one, not that my hometown’s a terrible place, but I guess I liked the river there? My dad would rent a canoe there sometimes when I was in like 2nd or 3rd grade and we’d go canoeing

24- Where do you want to be in 5 years?I’d have won the lottery, bought some expensive house and moved

25- What is your most bizarre talent?This isn’t that weird, but I can bend my thumb backward and touch my arm with it but only on my right hand for some reason. Idk I can’t really do anything especially weird

26- Do you collect anything?No

27- If you could change one thing about your past, what would it be?I’d go back and fix all those embarrassing things I said/did

28- Have you ever been arrested or in trouble with the law?No

29- You could have any superpower in the world, what would it be and why?I’d give myself the ability to change my physical qualities, which would be really amazing, since that’s basically invisibility, shape shifting, and a bunch of others all rolled into one.

30- Ever been in love?Romantically, no. I’ve dated in the past of course, but it’s never gotten to that point

31- If you could achieve anything what would be your number one goal?Invent something that allowed you to travel way past the speed of light without using any fuel, since I feel that would solve a lot of problems. It’d be easier to discover Earth-like planets and people could just move to them and move again if that planet ever became too dirty or whatever, then you wouldn’t have to worry about pollution or overcrowding, and you could easily mine water and rare minerals and stuff from asteroids and then everyone could have water

32- When was the last time you left your comfort zone?I can’t really think of anything for this one, since it’s not like I do wild and crazy things every day, but I spose the last time I asked a girl out (she said yes but it just never happened)

33- Think of the five people you are closest to. Are they good people who influence you life in a positive way?Definitely and I love them all so much

34- If you found $100 on the ground, what would you spend it on? I’d go and buy myself some new clothes

35- Favorite quoteI don’t have one, mostly because I’ve never really thought about which quote is my favorite.

36- Do you have a good relationship with your parents?I’d say so, yeah

37- List five good things that happened todayRight now it’s 7:30 am so not much has happened at all (earlier in this post I said it was 1:30 but I fell asleep while writing this) but yesterday 1- I saw @saveme-exe which I do all the time but he still always makes my day better 2- saw the most goals lesbian promposal on Snapchat 3- saw a picture of Maisie Williams on ig which I always do since I follow some fan accounts but she’s just so beautiful and amazing 4- got a burrito from Moe’s and 5- got complimented

38- Do you think we should make things happen or let fate guide our lives?I believe that fate is partially what you make it, because if everybody thought you would turn out a certain way but then you make it so that you don’t, then it wasn’t really ever your fate anyways, just what people thought it was. So I’d say that I think we should make things happen

#anon #ask

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cutiecrates · 8 years ago

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Cutie Reviews: Kawaii Box

Hello Cuties! Welcome to the first of many Brand posts. I’ve mentioned these a few times- but for new cuties, I’m essentially making these informative posts based on the Brands/Crates I personally order from. Not only to share my experience but to provide details for cuties who may wish to purchase but not be entirely sure of which Crate/Brand/Box/Series to purchase from.

I will be covering what I believe is essentially when it comes to the decision making process :3 as well as provide some fun Trivia or random bits I feel like throwing in. Can’t make a cutie cake without a little excitement~♥

With that in mind, let’s get ready to review:

Kawaii Box is the cutest monthly Subscription Box! Receive a box filled with hand-picked kawaii items from Japan directly to your home every month!

- Official blurb

Kawaii Box is a cute monthly subscription series based on providing cute and practical items directly from Japan, from korean toys to Harajuku inspired accessories and kawaii objects- this box is sure to bring a smile!

(A look at the very first kawaii box, released February 2014!)

For just $17.99 a month, subscribers will receive a box full to the brim with 10-12 items. In terms of protocol, each box is fairly procedure and embraces practicality. While providing variety, it is common to find the following in each box:

Candy (sometimes a DIY type, if not one of each ♥)

Keychains

A DIY product

Stickers

Stationary (usually pens)

A plush of some sort

Accessory (usually hair pieces or a pin)

Besides these are the less-common:

Squishies/Squishy (fairly common in earlier boxes)

Beauty tools or products (nail clippers, lotion, nail polish)

Bigger scale fashion accessories (fake glasses, head bands)

Item packs/sets

( ( ﾟ▽ﾟ)/ Boxes rarely ever have 10 items. The most common amount is 11 or 12.)

Besides the content available to subscribers, there are also online benefits! For each person you can recommend to subscribe, you are entitled to receive $5.00 off from your next payment. The more you manage to bring in, the cheaper the cost!

Not only that, but everyone can win a chance to obtain the KAWAII MEGABOX!

Each month 2 are given out with products equaling to or surpassing $100 dollars in value. The 1st is chosen from a random subscriber, while the 2nd is given away at random to a subscriber who uses social media and tags their post with #kawaiibox

( ( ﾟ▽ﾟ)/ Kawaii Box has previously been featured on the Today Show)

There are currently 4 methods of subscription:

1 month - $17.99 (keep in mind the page lists its old price of $19.80), recurring plan until canceled.

3 month - $19.80 per month, recommended for gifting.

6 month - $18.80 a month, the most popular choice. Save 6 dollars!

1 year - $17.90 a month, get 1 free box.

(for anyone curious I do the 1 month option~)

Each box ships at the end of the month, and as such, the box themes tend to be a month early (for example, a November box may include Christmas items!)

Best of all: SHIPPING IS FREE! (๑❝᷀ົཽ ⁐̵ ❝᷀ົཽ)✧

That’s right Cuties, not only do you get these super-cheap; but you get them with FREE shipping. No matter where you live, and speaking of living arrangements, Kawaii Box can pretty much be delivered anywhere. And don’t you fret, because it is 100% safe to order from Kawaii Box with its many methods of payment.

( ( ﾟ▽ﾟ)/ Kawaii means “Cute”. Therefore, it is a Cute Box ♥ Don’t ever misspell it as Kowai though, that makes it a scary box!!)

Now before ending these posts I plan to introduce a Pro and Con list, as well as my personal opinions. For my reviews on past box’s be sure to check the blog!

PRO

1. It lives up to its name. Everything in the box embraces its cutie side and is ready to help you do the same~

2. You get 10-12 items for under 20 dollars. How can you beat that??

3. Nearly everything in each box ends up being practical and useful to some extent.

4. Again I say it, FREE shipping!

5. Includes Asian candy and DIY items that might otherwise be hard to find.

6. If you like pens, keychains, stickers, and accessories you will probably enjoy finding them in each monthly box.

7. Kawaii Box is also partnered with official brands, such as Pokemon, Hello Kitty, and some obscure series you may never have heard of before.

8. Nearly everything comes in VARIETY! If you enjoy a little mystery you will be so excited to see what style item or color pen you receive. This is one of my favorite aspects~

9. You can track your boxes after they are sent out.

CON

1. You Get What You Pay For applies here. A fair amount of items in the boxes may come off looking like a “dollar store“ trinket. In fact some items from the box originate from the Japanese dollar store branch known as Daiso.

2. The boxes can be repetitive/predictable due to how recurring some items are. You always get stickers, some sort of pen or pencil, DIY, candy, plush toy, etc.

3. The box quality itself leaves a lot to be desired. While they look extra-kawaii, they’re highly frail and prone to ripping/staining/denting. They’re also fairly small so everything is literally smooshed inside.

4. Lacking in holiday spirit. By this I mean even if the theme seems to be implied, you generally only get 1 or 2 items to fit the holiday. Some people might be let down by this.

MY OPINIONS

Genuinely and honestly speaking, I really like Kawaii Box :3 it’s cheap and easy to afford and I really don’t see how you can beat getting so many things for less than 20 dollars (except maybe visiting a dollar store or Daiso). As a cutie-addict, I always find several things to squeal over, and tons of PINK cuteness!

However, I have to admit that the packaging has always bothered me. My boxes are almost-always dirty or damaged in some shape or form. I love its cute design, and I admit I have yet to receive a broken or damaged item (minus the air dry clay package in one DIY kit, but there’s no proof it happened during shipping), which leaves me fairly impressed with it.

I also love the variety, in that while its fairly predictable, I love to see what style/color of an item I got. I’m always left with a smile when I repackage everything, and sometimes I might not favor a specific box, but I have never lowly ranked a box or hated it.

I gladly support Kawaii box and would suggest it if you’re not willing to spend a huge amount of money on something you might not like or know someone who really likes Asian or cure items!

That’s it for now Cuties, if you have any questions feel free to message me! Stay Cute!

#cutie reviews #kawaiibox #kawaii box

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