#if you have access to clean tap water........ drink it

[thekindlygrammarfairy]

In most fantasy settings, wizards spend inordinate amounts of time studying obscure texts and brewing potions with rare ingredients to get access to just a tiny fraction of a fraction of the magical energy present all around them. It doesn't just resemble science, it is science. The only difference is that our world, to the best of our advanced scientific understanding of it, doesn't have magic, at least, not in the way myths described it.

But, arguably, using a complicated system of lenses to burn arcane patterns into highly-processed sand, rinsing them off with water so clean and pure it'll actually kill you if you drink too much of it, and then pouring molten metal in the gaps left by the lenses, and then stacking several of these together - all to make an automaton too that can't do the kind of work humans are good at, but that can calculate the formulas needed to map the stars, predict the weather, and send data anywhere there is at least one of these devices, often via invisible leylines, that is pretty magical.

The only reason we think of it as mundane is that it is. For a paltry 17 hours of your time (assuming US minimum wage less taxes and a $100 smartphone), you can tap into this network. If alchemy could be done with a high school chemistry set, if seeing the future was something you could learn in three or four days, if a spell to tear walls asunder could be purchased at any general store, these too would be mundane. Mundane is not based on how powerful a technology is, but how surprising. If I saw someone shoot lightning out of their fingertips, I'd be pretty impressed. But someone sending an entire library from one side of the world to another in mere minutes? We've all seen that before, whatever.

Anyway, it turns out that Dungeons and Dragons and the Cyberpunk roleplaying games have pretty similar target numbers - rolling a 10 in DnD is about the same value as a roll of 10 in Cyberpunk. In this essay I will

[judeharoldvich]

non usamericans going to university DO NOT listen to american advice about what to bring to uni they're telling people to buy 65 dollar water filter pitchers and compostable disposable plates instead of dishware we are not the target audience

[reasonsforhope]

ETA: Article here (can't believe I forgot this rip)

A new study finds you can reduce the amount of microplastics you drink simply by boiling your water.

Scientists are just beginning to understand the health risks associated with microplastic exposure.

Nano- and microplastics are bits of plastic as tiny as one-thousandth of a millimeter in diameter.

Boiling and filtering your tap water may dramatically lower the amount of microplastics you drink, according to new research.

Recent studies have found that nano- and microplastics (NMPs), which are bits of plastic as tiny as one-thousandth of a millimeter in diameter, have been found in a host of products and even in tap water.

A new study, published February 28 in Environmental Science & Technology Letters, found that boiling mineral-rich water for just five minutes can reduce the amount of NMP you’re exposed to by up to 90%.

Scientists are just beginning to understand the health risks associated with microplastic exposureTrusted Source, but growing evidenceTrusted Source suggests the plastics can accumulate in the body and trigger oxidative stress, inflammation, insulin resistance, and liver issues.

Certain advanced water filtration systems can capture and help remove some NMPs from tap water. But researchers wanted to figure out other options to remove microplastics, especially since in poorer countries cheaper, more accessible solutions for clean water are needed.

Boiling water may be a safe, simple solution that can effectively decontaminate household tap water, the new findings suggest.

“Boiling water before drinking is a great example of an ancient cultural practice that can help reduce an environmental exposure,” Dr. Luz Claudio, PhD, a professor of environmental medicine and public health at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, told Healthline.

Claudio was not involved in the study.

How boiling water can help remove microplastics

The researchers found simply boiling water is the first step to removing NMPs from tap water.

The researchers collected multiple samples of tap water from Guangzhou, China and contaminated the samples with varying levels of NMPs.

Each sample was boiled for five minutes then left to cool for 10 minutes.

Boiling hard water that’s rich with minerals — such as calcium or magnesium — creates a chalk-like residue known as limescale, or calcium carbonate (CaCO3), which can trap the plastics.

That solid, chalky residue then had to be separated and removed from the water with a standard coffee filter or stainless steel filter, thereby removing NMPs.

The team found that the impact was greatest in harder water: In samples that had 300 milligrams of CaCO3, for example, nearly 90% of NMPs were removed.

In softer water samples with less than 60 mg of CaCO3, roughly 25% of NMPs were removed.

“What’s important to note here is that the effectiveness of trapping these micro/nano plastics in these mineral solids is tied to how hard the water is – the harder the water, the more solids are formed, the more microplastics are trapped,” Dr. Anja Brandon, PhD, the associate director of U.S. plastics policy at Ocean Conservancy and an environmental engineer, told Healthline.

Brandon was not involved in the study...

How to limit your exposure to microplastics 

Anyone who wishes to boil their water should do so in a glass or stainless steel pot.

After boiling the water for about five minutes, let it cool, and do not stir it, Claudio says.

The microplastics need to bind to the calcium and fall to the bottom of the pot so they can filtered or scooped out."

-via Healthline, February 28, 2024

[themirokai]

now I wanna know- why isn't drinking water free in the US?

Hi there friend! Thanks very much for taking the bait from this post. Buckle up, this is a long one.

If you want to put out a cistern and collect rainwater and use that, congratulations! Your water is free! Plus the cost of maintaining your cistern and keeping it clean. If you’re lucky enough to live somewhere with a high enough water table to have a well, then your water is also free + the cost of the well and well maintenance.

But if you want water to come out of your tap on demand and you can’t or don’t want to maintain a cistern and you can’t or don’t want to have a well… you need public water!

How do we get public water? Well, a government entity (usually. there are some private utilities, but that’s a different post. I have strong feelings) has rights to take water out of a river or a lake, or they have a reservoir, or they have access to an aquifer. Then they have to transport the water out of the source. This generally requires aqueducts or massive pipes, which are expensive and need to be maintained, which is also expensive. The pipe leading out of one of my utility’s reservoirs is 12 feet in diameter.

Does the water go directly from the source to your home? Nope! It gets piped to a water filtration plant! The process of modern water filtration is complicated but it involves both physical and chemical treatment to make sure the water isn’t carrying any parasites, harmful bacteria, or pollutants and it has the right pH. Not only are these filtration plants extremely expensive to build and maintain but the process of operating them is extremely expensive, both in terms of hiring skilled staff and having appropriate materials for the filters and chemical treatment.

After the treated water (called “finished water” in the biz) is ready it does get piped to your house.

If you use public water, do you know where your local water filtration plant is? No? That probably means it’s not in your immediate neighborhood, which probably means it’s several miles or more away. To get to your house, the water needs to travel through an extensive pipe network. These pipes are smaller but they have to remain pressurized so that no contaminants can get into the water on its way to your house. But pipes break! Especially if you live somewhere with a freeze/thaw cycle. Maintaining this pipe network is, you guessed it, expensive! It requires materials and extremely skilled workers who perform in very very difficult conditions. Plus lots of engineering to keep the whole system pressurized even when one part of it breaks. Oh, and you know what lots of pipes were made out of in the early 20th century? Lead! So all around the country utilities need to make extensive and costly infrastructure upgrades because now we know lead pipes are really freaking bad.

Okay, so you get the basic picture. And I haven’t even gotten into Safe Drinking Water Act compliance, but most of that happens at the filtration plant. Oo! Or desalinization because some utilities pull their water from the sea and need to take the salt out. I know basically nothing about this except that it is likely complicated and expensive to do at scale.

This is essentially why I get frustrated by people who argue “why should we pay for something that falls out of the sky?” Because finished water doesn’t fall from the sky and it sure as hell doesn’t fall from the sky into your faucet. (Side note: as a public utility official I have been screamed at by the “it falls from the sky” people. A thing I like about the private sector is that people scream at me a lot less.)

Now, there is a very strong argument to be made that because water is necessary for human life, it should be provided by the government for free to everyone. And just like the costs of roads or public education, this should be part of the public budget and paid for by taxes and no one should have a water bill. I don’t disagree with this. I’m sure that’s how it’s done in some countries.

I don’t have a well-researched answer on the history of water utilities but I do have some facts and some (very) educated conjectures. Water rights in the US are complicated (another separate post!) but they’re based on private ownership. Ever since white people came to this country people have been claiming ownership over water and charging each other money for taking water out of rivers or lakes or the ground. You can measure how much of it someone uses and charge them for it. Water is treated like a commodity because unlike other public goods, it *can* be treated like a commodity and then, you know, capitalism. Again, I’m not saying that’s right.

But as a society, if we believe that no one should have a water bill, then we need to figure out how to pay for all the very expensive steps in the process I outlined at the top. Could that just be taxes? Sure, if you have a system that supports taxes at that level. Do I believe that public funding of water infrastructure would be a fuckton better than a lot of things we use taxes for now? Absolutely! But that requires massive institutional change and this isn’t generally an issue that people know enough about to demand change.

If you read this far, congratulations! You now know more stuff about drinking water!

[koichizeni-dunkminimi]

Mykolaiv is a city in Ukraine that has not had access to clean drinking water from taps for more than a year since start of the war (we have to collect it and carry it if we want to cook, eat or drink).

But people here are indomitable 🥲🥲🥲

Translation: save water - drink beer! Do you want beer?-> yes

-> no-> hehe liar;)

Чисто Миколаївський двіж

[tabarkraed]

In the blistering heat of the Gaza sun, my friend’s @bilalhammadsblog brothers stand in long, desperate lines for a small portion of water. Each drop is precious, meant to quench their thirst, cook their meager meals, and feed their children.

facings the crowded conditions, and the anxiety of not knowing if there will be enough water for them.

The feeling of helplessness is pervasive. and the fear of running out of this essential resource gnaws at them constantly. The lines are long and the wait is grueling, often leading to feelings of frustration and despair. In the midst of conflict, the simple act of getting water turns into a dangerous and exhausting endeavor.

Compared to this, people in normal conditions have the luxury of easy access to water. They can turn on a tap at any time, with clean water flowing freely for drinking, cooking, and bathing. There is no need to worry about running out or about the safety of retrieving it. This stark contrast highlights the severe hardship faced by those in war zones.

For those standing in line in Gaza, the struggle for water is a daily battle for survival. It’s a harsh reminder of the dire circumstances they live in, where every necessity comes with immense difficulty and risk. Meanwhile, for others, water is a given—an everyday convenience that is rarely given a second thought.

This difference underscores the profound impact of war on the most basic aspects of life, making what should be simple and routine into a constant, grueling struggle. The men in Gaza are forced to endure conditions that test their limits and challenge their resilience, all while trying to maintain hope and provide for their families amidst the chaos.

I kindly ask you to consider donating to support my friend's family. Your contribution will provide the essential resources they need to endure these incredibly harsh conditions. 🤍

[thistransient]

Hello! I love your photos ^^ Any tips for someone visiting Taiwan (first time travelling in East Asia) in late October/early November? I was inspired by your hiking photos the other day, I love hiking but I'm a newbie... Thank you, have a lovely weekend!

Thank you, hello to you as well! Re: hiking, the popular trails around Taipei at least are pretty clear, well-maintained, and accessible by public transport, there are a lot of beautiful views that don't require too much exertion (in November if you're lucky it might even be cool enough not to sweat half to death!). Definitely try to go to Yangmingshan, as it should be silver grass season around then, very scenic.

I'm not sure if where you're coming from is more or less a) developed and b) tropical than Taiwan, and whether you plan on renting a vehicle or not, but some general advice:

If these are not the kind of tips you were thinking of and you want to divulge more specific interests, I can give more fine-tuned recs! Hmm maybe I should just make a list of underrated places around Taipei...

- the Easycard (悠游卡) is really useful, you can get it at any convenience store (last I know it was 100元) and use it in all cities for the bus/metro/non-reserved trains/bike rental/payment at convenience stores + some other shops. A lot of establishments are still cash-only though, so it's good to have enough of that (Cathay United ATMs don't seem to charge fees)

- I always bring an umbrella, if it's not raining then it's too sunny, and even if it's perfect weather you can shake it angrily at scooters that almost run you over (kidding...kinda...)

- Be very careful crossing the road, especially in the crosswalk when you have right of way, people love to run red lights, and bus drivers hitting people keeps making the news

- Personally I love the Youbike system (I think you need to register your Easycard to a phone number but the app makes it pretty easy), Taipei has a great bike trail system along the riversides (or you can just walk if you're not a bike person), I've also used them in Kaohsiung and Tainan

- It's a subject of debate as to whether you should drink the tap water, in theory it should be fine but most people boil or filter it just in case (or for flavour I guess?). Sometimes if I'm lazy and thirsty I just drink it, tastes tolerable and nothing averse has happened yet! Most metro stations have a free water bottle refill station though, I see them in parks sometimes too.

- Whether or not you can flush toilet paper is also up for debate. Often there will be a sign (with varying degrees of humour and/or threats) somewhere indicating where it should or should not go, as the pipes in some old buildings cannot handle it, but newer ones can.

- You can get into the metro stations and use the bathroom for free if you ask the station agent for a token (which is good for 10 minutes or so), this also works if you come out the wrong exit and want to go back through. Most bigger parks also have bathroom facilities, which are generally clean.

- My go-to 24-hour restaurants are Sukiya (すき家) and Yon Ho (永和豆漿), 7-11 is also a place of many wonders (print/scan/copy/pick up train tickets/receive mail/hang out and have a drink, the onigiri are a great snack and the pre-made meals are actually not bad)

[beautifulhigh]

The update for @oldfarmwitch if no one else...

Last time on "Jen's grand plans"...

Clean kitchen, all going well. Happy Jen. (This will not last.)

Order the new tap I want for my kitchen sink because the current one is leaking at every joint and I think in places where there isn't one...

Discover we can't move the fridge on the wheels due to them being offset so the wheel braces are sitting like / \. In the process of discovering this both me AND my dad received injuries

Couldn't find the water stopcock. Took apart cupboards, moved the washing machine (more on that in a bit), found it behind a fucking panel

Discovered that one of the cupboards is rotting away due to ill fitting pipes

Struggled to move the washing machine, only for Jen to later realise that they forgot to unplug the fucking thing which was why it was a chore. Therefore the plug had been ripped out of the socket, but not before the socket had been ripped out of the back of the cupboard it was (barely) attached to.

Failed to have any food in the evening because I was just Done™ with the whole thing and went to bed.

This morning on "Jen's LOLZ life":

Woke up, ankle still hurts. Just great. I don't want to move so I stay in bed as long as possible

Get up just in time for Dad coming over. He has brought EVERY tool he has and most of his plumbing kit.

His plan: sort out the cupboard and then tackle the sink and its pipes.

Cupboard panel comes apart in Dad's hands. Whoops. We manage to get the new feet in place and get it level. It was a great time to discover it's also holding up the end of the unit so that will need resealing on the tiles.

Washing machine goes back into its hole.

Look to the pipework. Dad has the wrong sized... things. They're elbow shaped so I shall call them Elbow Things. Anyway, the Elbow Things are 10mm, we need 15mm. Look online but can't get anything this side of the holiday weekend.

Go off to this little plumbing shop Dad knows. They don't have any either. Go to B&Q to have a look at what they have (we'd checked their site but Dad wanted to check out what I shall call Flexi Pipes). While there we talk about the tap that's coming and I find a picture online where a reviewer took a photo of what came in the box.

I suddenly love unboxing videos because thank you.

Dad realises that we can get away without the Elbow Things because the tap is coming with its own Flexi Pipes and so we can use Straight Things instead. He knows he has one, so we pick up another in B&Q.

At checkout, Dad realises his wallet is in the car. (No, really.). That's fine, I'm a modern girl, I have a pay app on my phone. Which doesn't want to connect to the machine. Takes three attempts to pay for the £2.50 Straight Thing.

Get home, Dad is now under the sink. Plan: heat up the pipes to break the seal, put in the Straight Things, wait for the tap to be delievered.

Universe: LOLZ

The water is turned off, all pipes are drained.

Washing machine comes out, that's drained too.

The sink pipework is VERY tight and crammed in together so we have to take the washing machine back out so he can get that pipework out of the way.

One pipe is fine, the other one has Separation Anxiety and will not let go.

Washing maching goes back in to give more working space in the kitchen as when it's out it cuts off access to the other side of the room (think galley style kitchen, long and somewhat narrow).

I realise I haven't eaten all day. I've had a caffeine drink and I've had two lots of paracetamol (because ankle). Just Eat is now becoming my most-used app. Sorry to my bank account and to my trainer.

Dad is swearing up a storm. He used to be a sailor. People forget that. The second pipe will not move and he's burned the back of the cupboard and he almost melted the U bend thingy that comes down from the sink. He takes the U bend thingy off, takes off the drawers and facias of the cover, and gets in there with some Proper Tools. The pipe is cut - no conscious uncoupling here.

Nice man arrives with my lunch.

Dad imparts instructions for how to get the sink out of the unit. The waching machine comes back out again because we need to get at the clips under the sink.

Dad leaves because it's his brother-in-law's birthday. I sit down and INHALE my Greggs sandwich. I also bought treats. Again, sorry to my trainer. Sent @wtfuckevenknows a few voice notes with a short summary of what has happened before this point.

The water is back on but my kitchen sink is no longer plumbed in. Neither is the washing machine. I use the bath tap to get a bucket of hot water and put soap in so I can finish cleaning the oven and the racks which have been marinading in the cleaning stuff overnight.

The rack bag has leaked and some of the fluid soaked into and stained the wooden shelf I put it on.

I manage to mostly dismantle the over door to properly clean it, but the latches for the door to come off will not move. I do the best I can.

I have to go back upstairs to refill the bucket and I'm doing the cleaning outside on my wooden decking which gets slippery when wet.

My ankle still hurts and yells at me when I slip a little. This is also the ankle I have broken twice, although I didn't know I'd broken it twice until I broke it for what I thought was the first time and then ortho then showed me on the X-Ray where the old break was and how the new break was actually just me re-breaking it although not as badly. That was an interesting moment a decade ago.

Anway. Ankle is not broken but it's not happy.

Oven is now cleaned although I have the bowl of the goop that I scraped out of the bottom of the oven to dispose of. It needs to be diluted with a lot of soapy water and that's another trip up the stairs.

I use the bucket I have to dispose of the fluid in the cleaning bag and go to pour it in the outside drain, only to find out that's blocked when it all overspills.

I don't want to do this again with the stuff from the oven.

I also bought more treats from Greggs (very, very sorry, trainer) and I inhale two caramel shortbreads while I load up Tumblr and see that @oldfarmwitch is wondering how my day is going.

I sit down with my laptop and I type what is absolutely going to be tagged with "long post" because I can't even see the top of THIS bullet point list.

So I now need to put the over back together, then I need to get the sink out of the unit. That involves:

Cutting the current sealant

Removing the remaining clips

Lifting it out of the hole

Cleaning down the sink and the worksurface with remover which then has its own, bespoke clean up process which will allow further sealant to be applied. If I do not clean this up properly then no future sealant will, well, seal.

Removing the tap from the sink and waiting for the new one to arrive. Which, given the family's Easter plans, will be Monday morning when Dad has a "bit of spare time".

I still need to prime and paint the walls. The masking tape I put up yesterday isn't sticking properly to some of the window facias and is falling away already so that will be fun

There is more of my kitchen in the living room and more to come yet. Because I figured the Universe owed me a break I put £10 on the EuroMillions last night.

I won £6.20.

So that's where I'm at. New tag for these posts because yeah.

[the-fiction-witch]

The Queen of Thorns

Media IRL X DND/ Fantasy

Character Thomas Brodie Sangster

Couple None

Rating Flirty Ish?

I arrived at the local Inn, an old tattered place with the usual booths and tables, but there were very few travellers. The fire slowly dying down, a lute hovering in the corner playing itself a tune. I set my things down by the door, and I sat at the bar tapping a coin on the bar between my fingers. The barkeep an aged Elf woman with a braid of neon blue hair and a sharp ear full of gold earrings came over in a typical tavern girl dress and apron, She leant on the bar and didn't smile. "Drink?"

"Sure." I nodded, 

She took my copper coin and added it to her purse, "We have honeymead nothing else, that do you?"

"Yeah, that's fine." I nodded, 

She nodded and went to a large barrel behind the bar filling a wooden tankard and she brought it to me, 

"Thanks," I said as I took the tankard and had a sip, it was rich with sweet honey and an aftertaste of elmswick. "It uhh it's a little dead tonight?"

"It's dead every night." She answered as she took her cloth, and began to clean the bar. 

"Ohh... Sorry," 

"What brings you by traveller?"

"Just, travelling around I guess." I answered, "Like any traveller looking for gold, silver, relics, or anything else worth looking over." 

"Well you won't find much of anything around here, this is the edge of the map as it were." She said, 

"Ohh, Nothing?"

"Nothing. You're better off just turning around and heading back to wherever you came from." 

"I take it you don't get many visitors here?"

"No. Not really."

"You sure there's nothing I couldn't do while I'm in town?"

"Nope." She said, 

"Alright, but I'm too tired to head back tonight anywhere I can get a bed for the night?"

"We have rooms here, Two silvers a night. You do pay I take your stuff." 

"Fair enough," I nodded, I reached for my bag and handed over two silver coins. 

She took them and added them to her purse, She then went to the back room and came back with a key, "Room three, You break it you pay for it."

"No problem." I nodded, "I saw the hot springs out the back?"

"A gold a day for access."

"Alright," I sighed, I grabbed a gold coin I was mad about it but I did really fancy a soak so I handed it over, and she added it to her purse. 

"I wish I didn't have to explain it but don't make a mess in them."

"A mess?"

"Don't bloody spunk yourself in them."  

"Ohh! Understood." I nodded, "That's something you have to explain?"

"We get a lot of nightlings pass through here."

"Ohh fair enough." I nodded, I sipped my drink to avoid the awkwardness, 

"You need a bed warmer? there's me, Ali she's a gosling, Jace he's human, and Mie is a shifter she'll can do anything you want, it all depends on what you're into." She explained, "Three silvers an hour."

"No, Thank you. I'm okay." I answered, 

"Alright, Yell if you want another drink." She said before heading into the back,

I enjoyed my drink but I didn't fancy another plus I didn't want to bother the girl again, So I left my tankard and a tip, and I took my key and headed up the stairs until I found room three. So I unlocked it and headed inside.

The room wasn't much, just a toilet, shower, sink, bed, desk and little else. So I left my stuff in the room, stripped off wrapped myself in a towel and headed out, I locked the door behind me and headed down to the hot springs I had to use my key to open the door to them. They were very beautiful and tranquil with glowing trees and several hot pools, so I dropped my towel and key before I climbed into the hot pool.

"Ummmmm," I sighed happily just floating in the warm cosy water, as I floated like a little bag in my own little teacup, I had to admit I kinda get what she meant... it is really relaxing in here, and I wouldn't mind getting off. But I didn't wanna get in trouble, so I just soaked up the water and the views of the sweet rolling hills and trees, I did notice a huge castle on the hill, it looked abandoned and overgrown with thorns and roses. After a while, I got my towel and headed back up to my room having a quick shower and I climbed into bed eager to sleep for a while. 

When I woke up many hours had passed, in fact, I overslept. 

"Ughhh... oh god- how long did I sleep?" I complained as I sat up, I quickly got out of bed and got dressed, I quickly grabbed my stuff and headed downstairs, to the main part of the inn seeing the same girl from last night.

"Afternoon, You sleep okay?"

"Yeah it was great, sorry I uhh I've been travelling a while," I answered,

"Fair enough," 

"Can I uhh... Can I ask you something?" I asked as I sat at the bar, 

"sure?"

"The castle on the hill?"

"What about it?"

"What's the story?"

"It used to be the home of the queen of thorns,"

"What happened to her?"

"A sorcerer came to the castle and asked for her most beautiful rose, the queen refused to give the rose and so cast a spell on the castle. For the roses to grow tall and high trapping the queen inside until a thorn pricked her finger, as soon as it did. She would fall into a deep sleep, she's been asleep up there for one hundred years."

"Really? Well, what was the clause in the spell?"

"Only a true-hearted soul that can make it through the thorn woods and kiss the queen will free her from the spell" She explained, "So? What's going on you staying another night or what?"

"No, I'm gonna gonna save the queen." I answered, 

[uh-niran-really]

A friend requested that I write something for Vampire Symmetra and Cleric Lifeweaver so I wrote this for them! I enjoyed it so much I wanted to share it here! Enjoy!

Vampire Sym x Cleric Weaver

It had been months since his dearest friend had received the bite. Satya came to him in agony one night begging for help. He tried everything he could think off but in the end it was futile. She turned right in front of his eyes, her skin turning a dark grey, eyes shifting from the warm brown he loved so much to a deep red. She screamed in pain as he watched, there was nothing he could do. Her front teeth fell from her mouth, pointed fangs replacing them instantly. Niran watched in horror as her heart stopped beating, yet she stood, very much undead.

“Thirsty..” She had whispered. “So thirsty!”

Niran offered her some water, but she swot it away, instead grabbing his wrist to bite it. However, something inside her stopped her from doing so. She looked to her terrified best friend and dropped his wrist, opting to jump out of the window instead and run deep into the night.

She returned serval hours later covered in blood that wasn’t her own, tears in her eyes. She didn’t want to hurt anyone, but she was so thirsty, she felt like she was dying. Niran took her in his arms, holding her tight as she cried. He promised her he would do everything he could to rescue her from this.

Since then Niran has been working around the clock to find a cure, everything coming up too short. She mostly stayed put with him, wandering off occasionally. She had tried animal blood but found it had a weird taste, Niran wasn’t fond of animals being killed either so instead he opted to give her his own blood. Being a cleric he had access to draw his blood into vials, which he have to her when she was in need of feeding. She had become more affectionate with him lately, something he never complained about but he did miss the old her. She was different now, but he wouldn’t stop until he found a cure.

“Niran.. Thirsty!”

“You ran out of vials?” He turned to face her, her lust for blood becoming more apparent.

“Thirsty! I’m so thirsty! Niran!!”

“Okay okay, settle down dear. I’ll draw some more.”

He set about prepping his wrist by cleaning it and tapping the vein so the needle could get right in, before setting up his tools. She watched eager to feast, the thirst becoming too much.

“THIRSTY!”

“Satya, please be patient.” He smiled at her, eyes pleading for her to remain calm. He knew she couldn’t help it, but he also needed calm to focus. She sat on the table watching him, practically licking her lips.

“Why can’t I take it from you?!”

“We don’t know what that will do my love.”

“I won’t turn you Niran! I’m so thirsty!”

“I know, just give me a second to find a vial. I know I have more.”

She searched through draws and selves for a clean vial for his blood to go in, but found nothing. He considered slashing his wrist and have his blood drip into a cup for her to drink but she was already so crazed for blood, she might attack him for it.

“NIRAN!!” Her eyes were bloodshot and she was heightened by blood lust. “I NEED IT!!”

Niran knew what we happen if she didn’t get it. She’d leave and attack a poor defenceless human or worse, she’d attack an armed one, who might well kill her. A thought he couldn’t bear to imagine. With time running out and no vials in sight he did what any sane man would do and offered her his wrist.

“Take it.”

“Niran..”

“Satya, take it. I trust you. If you say you won’t turn me, then I trust you.” He smiled, gritting his teeth, waiting for the bite.

With little to no hesitation she grabbed his wrist and sunk her teeth into his flesh. Niran yelped in pain but the pain quickly subsided, turning into a fuzzy feeling, akin to pleasure. He deduced that Vampires must have an aphrodisiac effect when feasting, probably to stop their meal screaming in pain. He watched as she gorged herself on his blood, moaning as she took it. She always enjoyed the taste of his blood, she said it tasted floral and sweet. She seemed to be enjoying it fresh from his skin however and Niran worried she wouldn’t stop until she drained him dry, but to his suprise she let go wiping the blood from her lips, sighing and feeling full.

“Better?”

“Yes!”

“Good.” He cleaned and bandaged up his wrist, noting the two pinpoint pricks from her fangs. It would surely scar but he didn’t mind. She was safe and that’s all he cared about.

Once he was done tending to his wound she hugged him, nuzzling her face into his neck and sitting on his lap. She was so affectionate after feasting, he found it adorable. He didn’t mind holding her for a while, she was practically weightless now anyway. Slowly he pet her long satin hair as she squeaked in delight, appreciating him for all he did for her.

“I love you Niran.” She pulled away from nuzzling his neck, opting to stare into his golden eyes.

“That’s new. Usually you aren’t so obvious with your feelings. What changed?”

She shook her head at him smiling just enough to show vulnerability. Lately she has come to appreciate all Niran did for her during this time. He was always there for her when she was a human, but lately she came to realise that Niran cared for her enough to keep her safe and from harm. He risked a lot by doing so. She loved him for it.

“Nothing. I just noticed how much you want to keep me safe.”

“Of course! You’re my dearest friend. I adore you.”

“Friend..” She was a little disappointed by his choice of words. She was falling for him and now she has taken his blood directly, she was practically smitten. She hadn’t been a vampire very long, but she had determined that taking blood without killing was one of the most intimate things they could do. She wanted to keep him safe, to feed on him more. To have him like a sort of pet. Maybe a boyfriend or whatever humans called them. It had been so long since she thought like a human, her memory blurred and forgetful of what it was like before.

“Is that not what this is? Or am I now good to you Satya?” He chuckled, his laugh warm like the sun she could no longer see. It didn’t matter because Niran was her light now, that’s what his name meant anyway, so fitting.

“Not food. But mine.”

“I’m not going anywhere silly girl.” He pet her head again and she laid her chin on his shoulder, almost purring at the sensation. It was so blissful she could fall asleep.

“I love you Niran.” She said again, her heart almost feeling something. She swore it could beat.

“And I love you Satya.” He confessed, holding her in his arms as she slowly drifted off to sleep.

[baddieladdie]

Date with Nick Valentine ❤️

Interested? Read below, mi amore~

Valentine’s Detective Agency, Diamond City

“A date?” Nora’s lashes fluttered in surprise, color building in her cheeks. 

Suppose it has been awhile for her. Valentine thought to himself, hanging the worn-thin trench coat on its hook. She loses her deadbeat husband, discovers what little remains of society…Not exactly a romantic setting, but they somehow made it work.

Dates are a dying tradition from another time. But not dead yet -  not as long as he held the memories from the original Nick Valentine. He knew the world before the bombs and they could talk forever about modern conveniences they missed. Fresh drinking water from the tap, an abundance of food, and the luxury of comfort.

Like Nora, Nick had lost his better half. But they never made it to the chapel for their Wedding day. Jenny had spent months planning it all with his Mom. She loved brilliant pink and white roses. Wanted the red velvet wedding cake to be covered in them. 

Nick smiled at his shoes, temporarily lost in the memory.

“Nick?” A warm tickle on the exposed metal flesh of his forearm brought him back, glancing down on the worried look on Nora’s face.

“Sorry, lost in another one of Nick's memories.” He admired the love in her eyes, her fingers delicately loosening his tie.

He smiled tenderly back at her, stroking her warm, rosy cheeks and continued. “We've been out traveling together and…well,” Nick cleared his throat awkwardly. His hand fell from her face, and wrapped around the nape of his neck. “I've already had my way with you…multiple times.” Nora bashfully smiled, looking away to hide her blushing face. “Figured a romantic evening was in the cards, it's the least a beautiful dame such as yourself deserves. Whatdja say? Let this old synth take you out for a night on the town?”

“Like you even have to ask, of course nick.” Nora teased.

“Heh, a charmer as always. I'll come by Home plate at 6.”

Later on

Nick tightened his thin black tie, pushing the knot against his atom’s apple (couple hundred years of decimation has had its way with pre-war words).

“It’s good to see you loosen up, Nick.” Ellie commented, watching the worn and weathered synth attempting to make himself presentable. “You work far too hard for far too little.”

She began gathering her items scattered across the desk into her cross-body messenger bag.

“Thanks, Ellie.” He pivoted to face his secretary, watching her close up shop for the day. Piles of files decorated the desk. It was almost like everyone in the Commonwealth has heard of the detective synth in Diamond City who found a way to help the woman out of time access the institute to save her son. Suppose I have Piper to thank for that…

“Alright Nick, out with it.” Ellie rested her fists on her hips. “What’s on your mind? You’re making that face again.”

“Always another case to close, as always I suppose. But even this is too much for a lone detective to solve on their own.”

“I think you’re right, Mr. Valentine.” Ellie sighed, slipping her bag over her head. “You trust me, right Nick?”

“Sure, sure.” He nodded. “Saved my hide plenty of times. I couldn’t run the agency without you.”

“You need a partner, Nick. This get up,” She gestured to his rare clean gray suit. “This is for Nora, right? The two of you have been turning the Commonwealth into a safer place, one case at a time. Criminals know they can’t get away with what they used too.” Ellie made her way towards the door, where Nick nodded thoughtfully. “You’re going to see her tonight, aren’t you Nick?”

“Yes. I am.”

“Do you trust her, care for her?”

“As much as a man can, Ellie.”

“Has she been good to you?”

“Honestly,” He paused. “I don't think I could ask for a better partner or a better friend.”

“Then formally ask her to be your partner.” Ellie smiled kindly on her way out the door. “In every sense of the word. Don’t let her go, Nick.” She gripped the doorknob leading to the evening crowd of residents making their way home.

“Ellie, wait.”

“Yes?”

“Thanks,” He smiled. “For everything.”

She nodded and exited the agency, leaving Nick to adjust his gray suit before following her out the door on his way to Home Plate.

Home Plate  

“I wasn’t quite sure what to wear. You didn’t mention what you had in mind for this evening” Nora’s blue-green hair flowed down her exposed shoulders. Her silver-blue sequin dress shimmering in the evening light. The low neckline flaunted the ethereal curves of her collarbone, down to the sheer scarf that slightly obscured the top of her breasts, round and full as the moon herself.  

“You look stunning.” Ignoring how great that dress would look opened before him on his desk. Maybe later…He thought to himself behind a friendly smile. You don’t know how she might react to the next big step in our partnership. Best not to get our hopes up, you old rust bucket.

“I was thinking we could visit Power Noodles, catch a dinner show, and finish with a drink.”

“Oh, third rail or the dugout?”

“I, well, would you want to visit Goodneighbor? At this hour?”

“Sure, why not. Magnolia is set to perform some new songs. Might as well drive up Hancock’s tab.”

Nick chuckled, his eyes sparkling humorously. “Think He’ll ever pay that?”

“Not a chance” Nora laughed, her chest bouncing with the motion.

“Shall we, partner?” He extended his elbow to her, which she graciously took, wrapping her own around his.

“Lead on, detective”

Power Noodles

“How’s the noodles game, Tak?” Nick asked the protectron as he slid himself onto one of the available stools. Nora did the same, mindful of the short length of her dress.

“Nan-ni shimasho-ka?” The protectron responded in a friendly tone.

“That so? Well, so long as you’re staying out of trouble.”

“Nan-ni shimasho-ka?” Takashi responded with the same voice line.

“Good. I wouldn’t tolerate anyone mistreating the only other robot in town I can stand.”

“Two orders of Noodles, please.” Nick placed a small handful of caps on the counter.

“Nan-ni shimasho-ka.” The robot affirmed, pivoting 180 at the hip to fill two noodle bowls.

You got a weird look about ya, fella.”

Nick released an exasperated sigh. “Uh, well, yeah. I suppose I am. But there’s nothing to worry about, friend. Me and the institute haven’t been on speaking terms for a long time.”

“But why are you here, synth. Get lost, leave the food for the rest of us.”

Nick sucked the air in between his teeth, narrowing his gaze at the stranger. Must have been hiding under some rock to not recognize us…Regardless, he wasn’t looking for trouble, not while wearing his only clean suit. He reached for his bowl of noodles to slide it over, but only met empty air. In bewilderment, he turned to see Nora, who had stood up, Noodle bowl in hand - launching the bowling soup at the stanger’s face.

“Don’t you fuckin’ talk to my partner that way. I don’t know you and I don’t know how you don’t recognize us, Diamond City ain’t that big, unless you’re just that dumb.” She shouted, drawing the attention of other patrons.

“Nan-ni shimasho-ka?” The protectron coaxed.

“Nora, get a hold of -” Nick paused, noticing the unusual twitching coming from the strangers’ eye.

“You’re not from around here, are you - Stranger?” Nora coo’d, sending a chill down his spine. Hate to be on her bad side…

“No, but I know trash when I SEE IT!”

“And I know a synth when I see it.” Nora lifted the hem of her dress up, exposing a holster against her ample upper thigh. The handle of the pistol pressed against the roundness of her bottom. Smooth, pale, and alluring - a welcome distraction from the growing crowd.

“Woah, woah, woah!” A Diamond City officer dressed as a pre-war catcher jogged towards Nora having noticed her weapon. “The hell’s goin’ here? What’s da matta with you? No weapons allowed in the Marketplace''

“After everything Nick has done for Diamond City, you’re just going to let that slide?” She hissed.

“I dunno know, maybe I will.” The officer leaned down, the catcher’s cage nearly touching her forward. His breath wrecked like a man who hadn’t brushed in 2-00 years.

"I hear you’ve been asking questions around town.” He sneered under his breath. “What, Diamond City's got two private dicks now? Way I see it, we lose a synth and gain you.”

“Ungrateful son’s of -”

“Easy now,” Valentine interrupted, breaking up Nora and the officer. “Nora, it’s alright. This happens from time to time. New fella wanders into Diamond City and panics at the synth, roaming free around people’s business. Just ignore 'em. Not worth anyone with manners possibly getting hurt.” He turned to face the stranger, dripping in noodle broth, his eye twitching in a rather disturbing and inhuman way. “Finish what you came here for and leave.”

“And officer -”

“Yes?” He groaned, swinging his shotgun in hand.

“Get used to it. Cases have been piling up and unless you don’t want us to find Gwen, I’d suggest you keep walking.”

The Officer grumbled as he turned away. Still within earshot he hears a young woman crying out, “Mr. Valentine! Mr. Valentine!” He pauses for a moment, turning back around to watch.

“Uh, hi there. Have we met?” The synth detective asked, his expression of polite curiosity.

”No, no,” She shook her head, long blond hair dancing in the low light. “But you pulled a friend of mine out of some hot water. Tall guy. Gangly. Goes by Hank. I just wanted to say thanks.” She pulled out a handful of caps, offering them up in the palm of her hand. “Here.”

“Oh, now that's not necessary.” Nick closed her open hand around the caps. “I'm just glad everything turned out alright for Hank. Give him my best, will ya?” 

“Oh, yeah!” She nodded. “Yeah, I'll do that. You take care.”

Then, she scurried off to neighborhoods that lined up behind the Diamond City Market.

Perhaps this synth fella ain’t so bad afterall. The officer noted, returning to his usual patrol route.

Nora noticed a familiar flat cap and long, red tailcoat approaching them. Her short brown locks bounced as she walked. “Hey Nick, Piper’s coming over.” Nora caught Nick’s attention and pointed out the friendly figure coming closer to the counter.

Piper swung up next to them on a spare stool. 

“So, good to have you guys back in town. Was getting a little dull here without you.”

“Nan-ni shimasho-ka?”

“Thanks, Takahasi. Can always count on you to remember my usual.” Piper grinned. “So, what’s with the fancy get up?”

“Well,” Nick signed, returning to his perch. “We were on a date until we were rudely interrupted by some newcomer.”

Piper glanced from Nick, to Nora, back to Nick. “Glad you finally found your partner, Nick. And for what it’s worth, I think you made a great choice with this one.”

“Thanks, Piper. That means a lot coming from you.”

“‘’Course, Nick!” She punched his arm playfully. “Just give me the rundown sometime so I can publish the latest addition to the Valentine Detective Agency in the next edition of Public Occurrences.”

“Wouldn’t know who else to tell.” Nick smiled back.

After Nora finishes her Noodles and gabbin’ with Piper, Nick escorts her around city

“The stars are beautiful tonight, aren’t they?”

Nora craned her neck towards the clear night sky, the sparkles of distant stars reflected in her eyes. Her skin puckered against the chill in the moonlight, the hairs illuminated by the distant city lights. Nick smoothly slid out of his suit jacket, wrapping the warmed garment around her bare shoulders. She turned at the feeling of his touch, resting her hand on his, his arm remaining on her shoulder.

“Nora, I-” The words were lodged in his chest, emotion bobbing in his throat. Her hand slid down the curves of her tight, shimmering dress as she turned slightly to face him. 

“I feel like kissing you” He whispered in her ear with an unusually soft voice.

“Here? Nicky, all the people-”

Valentine removes his crumpled fedora, obscuring their faces behind the  hat. He drew Nora in by her waist, pulling her into an intimate embrace, and planted a sensual kiss upon her full lips.

He slowly pulled away, returning the fedora to its rightful spot. “Wanna take this back to the agency, partner?” He asked. He raised her chin to bring her eyes to meet his. 

"Wouldn't have it any other way" Nora smiled.

-------------------------------------

Originally posted on my ao3:

[jonswellandpumpservicesinc]

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[cockroachmotherfucker10]

🦷 Improving My Dental Self-Care 🦷

Hello, friends. Mod Lia here. Today I am sharing a self-care experiment with y'all.

I've always had great luck with my teeth—I have a slight overbite for which I declined Invisalign, but otherwise, I've never needed orthodontia. I've never had a cavity. My wisdom teeth extraction went incredibly smoothly. I like my teeth and they have yet to cause me major issues (🤜���).

However...

I work at a pediatric dentistry now. Naturally, having been privy to various mouth-related horror stories over the past couple months, I've developed some dental anxiety. It's not entirely unfounded, either; I know my oral hygiene could be much improved, and that's what I'm planning to work on!

This post is going to be VERY long and VERY detailed, so buckle up.

📣 DISCLAIMER:

I bought products from Amazon for this little experiment. In general, I get most of what I buy off the internet, as I can't drive, don't have access to functional public transportation, and live in a forest. I also do not make a livable wage, so I pinch pennies whenever I can, and Amazon tends to be more affordable than other options.

That said, it is absolutely an evil corporation that exploits its employees, harms the environment, strangles small businesses, monopolizes whole industries, and perpetually bloats Jeff Bezos' inordinate wealth. I very much want to achieve a situation where boycotting Amazon is more logistically and financially realistic for me. I do not feel good about supporting such an unethical company, and I want you to know that I'm aware of its issues.

Also: while I need to conserve money (especially since this year I'm finally moving in with my partner [Mod Cass] and our dear friend), I do have the privilege of indulging in some monetary laxity, as I live with my parents and don't have to pay rent. Not everyone has that advantage, and I realize how fortunate I am. Many people would be unable to drop ~$60 like I did.

😁 Things I Do Well:

I brush my teeth every night. I always have. I have severe depression and pretty bad executive dysfunction, but that's something I've managed to do consistently.

If it's not plain tap water, I'm almost certainly drinking it through a straw.

I've seen a dentist every six months for as long as I can remember.

I keep a toothbrush and toothpaste by my bed. When I'm intoxicated or the executives are Dysfunctioning, I can start brushing my teeth in bed. By the time I'm done, I'm almost always able to get up and spit into the sink, but I do have an empty bottle I can spit into if necessary (I've done that once or twice, but I emptied, washed, and disinfected the bottle in the morning). Gross? Whatever. No shame in doing what you have to do to work with your brain.

I chew sugar-free gum almost daily, which stimulates saliva production, which in turn prevents decay.

After buying coconut oil for skincare initially, I was pleasantly surprised to find that oil pulling (swishing oil in your mouth) actually works for me. It's very low-effort and I've been doing it for 15–25 minutes every night. Studies suggest oil pulling may help prevent plaque, gingivitis, and bacterial build-up.

��️ Areas of Concern:

I have a mild enamel defect on some of my back teeth.

I occasionally swish 1.5% hydrogen peroxide around my mouth as a teeth whitener. I doubt this is significantly harmful, since my dentist has me do it before cleanings and I checked with my doctor that it wouldn't hurt me. But H2O2 is caustic, so I'm certain it can't be good for my teeth.

I put Mio energy drops in the water bottle I drink from at work. Their second ingredient is citric acid; acidic substances corrode your enamel.

I'm very prone to BFRBs (body-focused repetitive behaviors), presumably related to my likely OCD. For this reason, it's a struggle to put down the toothbrush, and I brush my teeth—hard—for 5–20 minutes at a time. Brushing your teeth too vigorously for too long is rough on your enamel and gums.

I use CBD vape juice as a nightly tincture to help me sleep. The second ingredient is propylene glycol, which apparently breaks down into various acids.

I've tried many times, but I've never been able to consistently brush my teeth twice a day. Or floss. Thanks, brain xoxo

Since I don't brush my teeth in the morning, I eat a lot of mints so I don't inflict morning breath on people 😫 Sucking on hard mints exposes your teeth to sugar for prolonged periods (and you can damage your enamel if you bite them).

❗ DISORDERED EATING TW - I am relapsed. I eat little in the mornings and do not eat at work. This is very very dangerous and once caused a medical crisis in front of my coworkers, so I keep hard candy in my purse for harm reduction purposes. It's a great source of fast-acting glucose when I get hypoglycemic, but it carries the same issues I mentioned with hard mints. HOWEVER, preventing another crisis is my top priority, so I am NOT getting rid of the hard candy. ❗

🎯 Goals:

Stop whitening my teeth with hydrogen peroxide.

Start brushing my teeth more gently and for less than 5 minutes at a time.

Brush my teeth in the morning.

Floss more nights than not.

Remineralize my teeth using enamel-strengthening products.

Use some protective measure (e.g. mouthwash, gum, oil pulling) after eating mints or candy, taking my CBD tincture, or drinking my flavored (albeit sugar-free) water.

🪥 Products:

Soft toothbrushes ($4.39) - Not only do I need to be more gentle on my teeth, but I've always found brushing my teeth more pleasant with soft-bristled brushes. I don't know why I haven't been buying them; I guess in my head they're a "kid" thing 🙄

Floss picks ($3.69) - I was significantly better about flossing my teeth when I used floss picks as a child. They're not as effective as regular floss, but I think they're easier and more pleasant to use—good for executive dysfunction. Again, I've been avoiding them because I've thought of them as a "kid" thing, which is silly.

Xylitol gum ($10.22) - The sugar-free gum I currently chew is sweetened with xylitol, a sugar substitute that research suggests could aid in cavity prevention. However, Mentos Pure Fresh gum in particular is one of only eight chewing gums approved by the American Dental Association. And it's good.

Alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash ($4.82) - Alcohol is acidic, carcinogenic, drying, and an irritant, so it's no good in mouthwash. Conversely, appropriate doses of fluoride support enamel health. Not sure about this violet mint flavor, though...

Fluoride toothpaste ($11.49) - Due to my distrust of hydrogen peroxide, I did some research and found a study that failed to identify any concerns with H2O2 toothpastes, so that's how I will replace my whitening** rinse (though I did opt for the Colgate variant with less H2O2). It will be far milder than actual H2O2, and more importantly, it contains fluoride.

**Note: No one needs to whiten their teeth. Enamel is slightly translucent and the underlying dentin is yellow, so yellow-y teeth are perfectly natural, and sometimes healthier than intentionally whitened teeth. A smile is beautiful regardless of its color, and I do believe this! I see sooooo many adorable, charming, lovable kids at work who don't have "perfect" straight white teeth. Unfortunately, I am not immune to arbitrary societal pressure, and I know that for now I'll still want to use a teeth whitener. At the very least, I'd rather use one I'm sure is safe.

Nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HA) toothpaste ($11.95) - n-HA is the synthetic form of a naturally occurring mineral compound that comprises most of our enamel. Research shows that n-HA's enamel benefits are equivalent to fluoride's (actually, n-HA produces slightly more uniform remineralization), but their mechanisms of action are different, so I want to try both. n-HA is more expensive, though!

Fluoride-free toothpaste ($8.72) - If I'm going to brush my teeth more often, I need a toothpaste I can default to if at times I feel like the other ones are too expensive or don't taste as good. I heard that this one has a nice subtle flavor, and it comes in spearmint, which I prefer to peppermint. Also, like most ED folk, I have stomach issues sometimes. When my stomach is sensitive, I don't want to risk exposure to fluoride, since it can hurt your stomach if swallowed (though n-HA is safe to ingest).

Total cost: $55.28 ($57.77 with tax) - That's a lot of money, and way more than I ever wanted to spend on dental care products. However, all this stuff is gonna last me a while, and it's worth the price if it means my oral health might improve.

📑 Plan:

I will brush my teeth with fluoride toothpaste in the morning. At night I'll oil-pull before using my n-HA toothpaste, a floss stick, and fluoride mouthwash.

I will use my non-fluoride toothpaste if I ever, for whatever reason, don't feel like using the other two. If the other two end up tasting bad, then I'll just alternate them for my night brushing and use the non-fluoride one in the morning, when I'm more likely to be put off from brushing.

I will set a 5-minute timer on my phone when I brush my teeth. Once it goes off, I have to stop. Ideally, I'll work my way down to the recommended 2–3 minutes.

If I don't feel like brushing, I give myself full permission to brush in bed or just quickly swipe my toothbrush over my teeth. If that's still too much, I can use mouthwash or gum instead.

I will bring a bottle of plain tap water to work to sip from (and thereby rinse my mouth) after taking a drink of my flavored water.

I will chew Mentos Pure Fresh gum after eating a mint or hard candy.

I will use mouthwash or a brief oil pull after taking my CBD tincture at night. (I could also brush my teeth, but I do worry about rubbing any acidic byproducts into my enamel.)

I will offer myself understanding, compassion, forgiveness, encouragement, and validation no matter how my self-care experiment goes. I am trying to get better, and I am not a failure if it turns out to be harder than I anticipated.

I will update this post by reblogging it with my progress!

[chaoticreation]

Online Shopping... or not.

So I think this is really important to share, for those who might not understand what it’s like to survive in a shitty area. I’m disabled. So this is what online shopping looks like when I’m snowed in, or if my vehicle is in the shop, or if I really just don’t have the energy to get out. We do not have public transit where I live, and taxis/ubers are unaffordable. I do not have someone in the community that can shop for me.

Some of these are things I currently need again, and some of these are things I buy frequently for survival. Honestly, I encourage you to reblog this to spread awareness. This is what it’s like in America now.

In stores, I buy GV pizza crust mix, for like $2. As you can see, it’s not even available in this list. But it’s $9 for Martha White (which sucks tbh. Always sticks,) and $12 + $10 for shipping, for betty crocker. That is OUTRAGEOUS. (I’m not looking for the GF so that’s like, out of the question in the first place.)

Disinfectants? Paper goods? Unavailable to ship. So I can’t clean my house, or dishes, but I also can’t buy disposable cups or plates. Go figure.

Easy carbs. As a person that’s frequently hypoglycemic, carbs are key to survival. Bread, bagels. They’re easy. Every last one is unavailable to ship.

So maybe I’ll try chips for carbs. That’s sustenance. Miserable sustenance, but susten- oh right. Unavailable to ship.

Other snacks. Let’s try other snacks. Hmmm… $17 for a jar of salsa I just paid $5 for in store. I think tf not. Beef stick? What’s that say? $155/lb? It’s almost $10 for that little bit. After other results, I’m kind of surprised it’s not $20 for a single stick.

Drinks. Let’s try drinks. Soda will give me sugar so I don’t die. But let’s see what’s actually available to ship. $18 for a 6 pack of sprite. $5 in store is pushing it, but $18?! You’re joking!

I have one bottle of water left. Hydration is important. It reduces the risk of blood clots, (and I have a blood clotting disorder,) and y’know, keeps me alive. But I can’t drink tap water. It makes me throw up. Same with certain brands of water. Poland Springs has been a pretty safe water for me to drink. Let me get some… or maybe not? Over $30 for a case of water? Guess I’ll dehydrate.

So let me get this straight; I can’t hydrate, I can’t get soda for sugar, I can’t get chips or snacks. I can’t even get bread to make pbj sandwiches. No bagels either. Or pizza crust mix, to even attempt to make my own bread or meal or anything. I can’t get dish soap to wash my dishes, but I can’t get paper plates or plastic cups. I can’t even get disinfectants to clean my house. Hell, I can’t even get tissues to blow my nose after crying from an extremely failed online shopping trip.

And Amazon isn’t any better when it comes to this.  

So what’s a guy to do when I’m snowed in? Or if I’m in too much pain to go shopping? Or if I have car troubles? We don’t have public transit in my area.

What am I supposed to do?! How is any of this okay?!

And you wanna know the worst part?

I was supposed to go shopping today, but I really just couldn’t function. I went out for dinner. It took me 4 hours to just manage to do that. My brakes felt a little off. A little clicky. It’s been really cold, and since this wasn’t consistent, I assumed it was just that. The cold. However, when I turned my car on after dinner, so I could go home, this is what I see. So I guess it’s a good thing I couldn’t manage to make myself drive 30 minutes from home for some groceries, but now I’m stuck without anything in the house.

So the reality of not having access to a vehicle is yet another issue I have to face. (ABS & ESC OFF lights, as well as speedometer temporarily not working) I don’t know what the problem is, if it’ll be covered, if I’ll be able to afford the repair, or how long it will take. @sydthetiel​ has a vet appointment on Tuesday. I couldn’t get shopping done. I need help taking the trash out. And now I may need to beg for a ride just to take my girl to the vet. I literally don’t have anything to drink, and I don’t have carbs, and I don’t know if my van is safe to drive.

2023 is off to a great start, huh? Now what?

[fearecia]

Other reasons people might carry water bottles all the time now:

When is the last time you tasted water from a hose? Have you noticed that the tap water tastes absolutely horrible anymore? Water isn't always readily available.

Water fountains are regularly broken, poorly maintained, and again, the water tastes disgusting. They are also a great spot to spread germs between people, given how often people love to put their mouths right on the spout.

You can't just get a cup of water for free from the gas station or restaurant anymore. They now charge you for the cup. So, no water and didn't have a quarter? Guess you're going thirsty.

The cost of bottled water is insane. We're also way more aware of the impact of single use plastics on the environment. Reusable water bottles avoid both of these issues.

Have I mentioned that the flavor of water is important? If you don't like the flavor, you're not going to drink it, and now you are getting dehydrated. Some people opt to just constantly haul water so they can be sure they have access to water they will drink.

Having a water bottle or three full of water constantly is a great way to prevent heat related health complications. Especially if you have any sort of health issues.

Water bottles have lids/are leak proof. Now you don't dump water on your keyboard when you knock the bottle over.

If you were female and a teen, you may have had the "weight loss hack" of "drink water to keep yourself from being hungry" rammed down your throat. You may have started carrying a water bottle as a way to control your food intake/trained drinking water as a boredom reflex.

This is literally just what I can come up with while I have a migraine. I'm sure there's plenty more reasons.

Give the kids reusable water bottles. Make sure they know to clean them regularly. And shut your judgemental mouth and drink your damn water. Maybe you'll be less grumpy if you're adequately hydrated.

[gfzdbz]

Fiji’s Best Tasting Water: The Pure Essence of Nature in Every Sip

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