#its also important to enjoy the process itself and not just the end result

[sweetmiremoonie]

I am aware that this is unsolicited advice (in which I'm very good at giving), but I find it much easier to create when I divide the creation process into little chunks.

I've spent months not drawing a single thing due to being overwhelmed of the process as a whole (depression from the rise of A.I. art didn't help either). I'd doubt my identity and ability as an artist, which in turn would make me even less motivated to make things. A vicious cycle indeed.

But I've since found my creative spark and motivation once again, and dividing the creation process into steps has helped a lot with feelings of uncertainty and inadequacy. I divide the workload accordingly:

1. Sketch

2. Lineart

3. Coloring

4. Finishing touches

5. Double checking for errors

6. Posting

I try to get at least one step finished within the day, but if I'm not able to, I leave it for the next time I can focus and work on it.

Dividing into chunks is also good for someone who tends to hyperfocus like I do. My brain wants to get everything done at once at the expense of everything else, but if I keep the steps in mind, I can stop and tell myself "Okay, the lineart is done. Tomorrow (or whenever I'm able to) I'll start coloring." instead of "Since I've already gotten this far I might as well start the coloring right now!!!!"

[anemoiashifts]

mental health check-in for reality shifting.

⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧ ‧₊˚.

as we all know, reality shifting is generally neural thing but tends to be glorified & romanized by a select few due to people wanting to have a better situation or a more desirable life.

that in itself is totally fine but this post is created with the intent to make sure the community has a healthy relationship with shifting & if not possible solutions.

if mental health is left unchecked it can lead to destructive behaviors & can worsen preexisting mental health concerns. for me personally, that’s not what shifting is about. you can learn about yourself & grow without even shifting. the expansion of your perspective & becoming more empathetic to yourself is something i believe is extremely important.

⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧ ‧₊˚.

♡ how often do you think about shifting ?

while it’s fun to daydream & think about your desired reality — does it consume your life or take away from other tasks that need to get done in this reality? if you’re somebody who has maladaptive daydreaming disorder (like myself!) it can exacerbate the fantasy-like aspect of thinking about shifting.

if you’re someone whose mind wanders a lot do something productive. this could be finishing some homework that you’ve been putting off for a long time or rearranging your bedroom. stuff like partaking in hobbies while listening to youtube videos in the background may help too.

⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧ ‧₊˚.

♡ why are you shifting ?

is it because you’re searching for something bigger ? maybe you’re looking for friends ? while you probably aren’t going to be able to meet your favorite characters here, you can meet lots of other people & make new connections at anytime. if it’s in person or even if it’s in an online space , i bet there are lots of people in this comment section or any shifting video who would love to be your friend.

defining why you want to shift can do wonders for uncovering more about yourself. 90% of the things people want to shift for are & can be found here & you’re more then worthy of them. just because you want something like love or a sense of belonging doesn’t mean you have to travel the multiverse for it.

⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧ ‧₊˚.

♡ “i want to k!ll myself because i can’t shift.”

while i understand frustration, extremes that result in life altering & ending choices are never good and quite frankly, frightening for a creator to see in their comment sections. most sv!c!des are committed on impulse. we go through so many emotions on the daily & process so much information a day. taking a moment alone to think & break down thought process & long term effects your actions will have is a nice way to come back down to earth.

meditation is also a great tool to calm down. you can even use shifting guided meditations without the actual intention to shift. breath work has also been helpful to me.

i understand these suggestions aren’t long term fixes but if you’re someone who has echoed these words & truly meant it then i cannot recommend therapy & possible taking a break from shifting even more to focus on yourself right here where you are. this may not be the answer you’d like to hear but it’s the one that is possibly needed.

⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧ ‧₊˚.

♡ timing.

there is no specific time frame that you have to shift. both children & adults do hold the capability to shift. if someone tells you, you can’t shift because ___ or that you’ll age out of something its simply not true. things take time & it’s okay if your journey doesn’t look like everyone else’s. there’s no need to stress yourself out. try to enjoy the journey as well as being excited for the outcome. essentially, a large part of the shifting journey is meditation & affirmations which are both beneficial to your mental & physical self. try to sprinkle in some self love affirmations or general positive thoughts too. even if you need to take a step away from shifting & pick it up at a later date, i encourage you to do so if it’s stressing you out or you’re only focusing on shifting or neglecting your life / responsibilities here.

⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧ ‧₊˚.

♡ shadow & trauma work.

answering questions that are meant to make you think & deeply reflect are tools that hi light some issues you may not even realize you’ve had. i have a tumblr post here with some, but for tiktok, ill list some on the next side. these ones are specifically for shifting but i encourage you to venture out to discover some more personal ones to expand upon your answers to these.

⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧ ‧₊˚.

i should also mention, i’m not a therapist so take what i say as non-professional advice & mere suggestions & a starting point to truly expand what shifting has done for you, negatively & positivity. im a huge advocate for therapy & if you feel comfortable enough expand upon these conversations in sessions if you feel comfortable.

i understand my audience is varied in age but i do notice a lot of you are younger then myself. it’s hurts to see people who are so young stress themselves out this much over trying to shift. i really do care about you & want to see all of you happy — with or without shifting.

⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧ ‧₊˚.

[improbableivy]

Waterdhavian Fig Jigglers

”Fig jigglers were essentially shortbread cookie cups with a flanlike, figgy filling meant to rise above the cookie’s cupline and jiggle without collapsing or cracking. The finished product was dusted with powdered sugar and served either at room temperature or chilled, depending on the season.” – Hot Mess by @patheticfangirl, chapter 12

Cookie cups

1 cup/200 g butter (softened)

½ cup/100 g sugar

2 cups/250 g wheat flour

½ teaspoon vanilla paste

Figgy filling

1 cup/150 g dried figs

2,5 ml water

½ cup/100 g sugar

½ cup/1,5 ml heavy cream

3 eggs

½ teaspoon vanilla paste

Topping

Powdered sugar

Preheat the oven to 175 oC.

Mix butter and sugar until creamy while gently reminding the butter that the ability to be soft is a strength, not a weakness.

Add the vanilla paste and mix well while assuring it that no matter how small it might feel compared to the amount of butter, sugar, and flour, its presence is very much appreciated and greatly improves the result of the process.

Gradually add the flour and mix it well with the other ingredients. Sing or hum something you like while doing so to add a musical note (Ha, get it?) to the taste of the cookie cups.

Divide the dough equally amongst the cups of a muffin tin and press it gently into shape. Equity and a gentle touch are essential when dealing with baked goods and people alike.

Prick the bottom of the cookie cups with a fork. They’ll puff up if you don’t, leaving less room for the figgy filling, and it’s important to share space whenever possible. Nobody likes a cookie cup too full of itself to leave room for other input.

Bake the cookie cups about 12-15 minutes. They’re ready when the edges turn golden brown. And don’t fret if they swell a little – they’ll also deflate a bit once removed from the oven. Some cookie cups puff and posture as a defense mechanism when they feel the heat.

Let the cookie cups cool completely while you prepare the figgy filling.

Chop the dried figs. Add them and the water to a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then let it simmer for 10 minutes or so.

When the figs are sitting all soft and defenseless in the remnants of the water, give in to the Dark Urge and put them to the blade! – in your blender. Blend until you’ve got a nice, smooth puree.

Whisk the eggs in a separate bowl, gradually adding sugar. Remember to tell the ingredients they are doing an egg-cellent job and how egg-cited you are to be working with them. Sugar is sweet, and so are you. ❤

Once eggs and sugar have been mixed well, add the cream and vanilla paste. Whisk away until all the ingredients have become like jazz – smooth, that is.

Stir in the fig puree until you fig-ure that the mix is pretty evenly blended.

(You may end up with a slight excess of filling, but you can turn those leftovers into a figgy flan by just baking them in a little tin instead of a cookie cup.)

Preheat the oven to 160 oC.

Spoon figgy filling into the cooled cookie cups and fill them up. The figgy filling has a healthy self-esteem and willswell somewhat while baking, hopefully leaving us with the fig jigglers’ signature over-the-top top.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the filling sets. Keep an eye on the goods while they bake. All ovens heat a little differently, and the jigglers may need more or less time before they’re ready. The fig filling doesn’t change color much, but it does become more solid-looking and jiggle-able.

Gale will tell you to let the jigglers cool to room temperature or even chill them before serving, but if you aren’t really a details person and maybe ended up baking these bad boys just in the nick of time before company arrived, you can also totally serve them warm. They’re delectable either way.

Also, the figgy filling will deflate quite a bit (and sooner than you might think), so that’s another reason to just chow down immediately.

Dust the fig jigglers with powdered sugar and enjoy!

Christening my Tumblr account with a fan work of a fan work. Hot Mess on AO3 is hilarious and does things to my heart (warming it, wrenching it, the works!), and it turns out that the fig jigglers from the fic are also stupidly delicious. 10/10 recommend giving it a read if you haven’t already!

(Please bear with me, I have no idea how to tag this. XD)

[nomatterwhatnomatterwhere]

(Hustle) Like an Underdog II

prev

You wouldn't have called yourself an avid reader; it wasn't as if you never touched a book that wasn't scholastic, but it also wasn't as if the bookstore next door gave you the award for most frequent visitor or most profitable customer.

You don't call yourself an avid reader because you don't have a collection of books piled on top of each other on your nightstand waiting to be read; you don't sort books by color, height, or genre; you even happen to write in them sometimes, on books.

All things that horrify readers-the real ones, the ones who have the complete collection in different adaptations, the ones who can tell you the story behind the publication, the ones who know the author's life story inside out.

You were never interested in those things.

Reading was just another pastime, a way to keep yourself busy when you were bored and didn't quite know how to use your free time.

Sometimes, however, when you thought a book was worthy enough of your attention, you didn't even realize how much time was passing while you were reading and you were captivated by the story.

You don't have a favorite genre because any genre may be worthy of your attention, just as one genre specifically may not be enough to keep your interest high or may lead you to ignore other genres you might like.

Kind of like people.

To be appreciated or not, a book needs time and attention to be given to it, only then can you tell whether what you have read is the "novel of a lifetime"-the one you always suggest when asked what book to read-, a "boring and predictable nineteenth-century detective story"-the murderer is the butler and you figured that out from page 12-or a "frustrating romcom that relies on poor communication skills"-this one ended up in the fireplace burning.

Kind of like people: they need time to be understood even a little bit.

But people, unlike books, change, so the process of understanding a person is slightly different from understanding a book, regardless of whether it is "The Little Prince" or "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs."

Sometimes when you reread a book after not having read it for a long time, you notice things that you wouldn't have noticed at all when you first read it. It's not just the little foreshadowings of the plot that you recognize because you already know how the book will end, it's a different level of reading than before: if before you had only enjoyed, more or less, the story, now you understand the story and its motivations.

This does not happen because the book has changed in the time that you have not read it.

This happens because you have matured in that time that you did not read that book.

To understand a person you need time, but that person changes with the passage of time itself.

Being able to understand the human psyche is a rather interesting and complex skill to use despite the fact that it can be achieved in a simpler way than you think.

You just have to be able to read and know the different levels of reading.

Read their little ticks, the ones they are not even aware of, microexpressions or changes in tone. The way their eyes may light up when an interest of theirs is mentioned or how they will avoid eye contact when they are embarrassed and want to change the subject.

It is something that takes time, but when you work ardently for something you always get results. Maybe on the first try they won't be great results, but they will improve with time.

Time is a relative concept, and one does not need to know the theory of relativity to understand this fact.

Man is a bizarre animal: he has established how universally the flow of time should be measured, but this flow is perceived differently by everyone according to the events in our lives that we deem important or memorable.

Between the end of the first and the beginning of the second selection you had felt that time was running too fast for you to be able to do everything you needed to do.

You had gone through all the data of the surviving existences and noted their improvements, pointing out where they still needed to improve, their speed of adaptation, and how they could make the most of their potentials under their current conditions.

All this was then checked and reviewed by Ego, who always added something to your observations; once Ego approved them, the documents were passed on to Anri san. Once in Anri san's hands, the data were entered into the software that the boys would use in the first stage of the second selection.

In addition to that Ego had updated you on the Wild Card, which was what you considered his Side Project, but which you were not sure you could call a Plan B.

You knew from the beginning of the BlueLock Project that there was this Wild Card, but other than the fact that some sort of repechage of some players would take place, you did not know in what manner it would be done.

When Ego gave you the Wild Card guidelines the first selection was still in progress, albeit in its final stages, and you did not quite understand what Ego expected you to do. Initially you thought you would simply have to pass more papers to Anri san, then you realized that Ego expected you to act on that Side Project, and so between 'player analysis you found yourself sketching out something for the project.

You were not totally satisfied with your work, you could definitely do better, but apparently your basis for the project was solid enough for Ego, which was already a great satisfaction for you. Any person with any knowledge of soccer history-so not the boorish existences participating in the project-knows how much Jinpachi Ego strives for perfection in his projects.

You didn't know when the Wild Card was going to be integrated into the Blue Lock Project, you just knew that Ego had taken your fundamentals and elevated them to their fullest potential, and that worried you a little in truth: from your point of view, you had already been quite rigid in your ideas, and knowing that they had been made even more difficult made it difficult for you not to worry about the possible consequences that the repossessed players might face.

From time to time you had also found yourself acting as an assistant to Anri san, who between meetings to go to, meetings to arrange, and various personnel to contact seemed to have no respite. You had answered a few phone calls and negotiated a couple of meeting dates, nothing extraordinary, but Anri san seemed grateful for the help.

It had seemed to you that the time between the first and second selection had passed too quickly, but for the surviving existences you were pretty sure it had been an eternity.

Training without being able to touch the ball must have been comparable to torture for those existences that had little footballs in their heads instead of neurons, when they were thinking about something instead of the gears turning you could hear the footballs crashing into each other.

You had seen how that bunch of mainly pathetic existences had entered the hall for the start of the second selection: A bunch of zombies in a bad apocalyptic movie were more graceful than they were.

There were existences, some of which you could almost have called tragic, that still possessed some grace or some form of charisma, but most of the "lumps of talent" were really in a pathetic condition.

Had that training exhausted them that much? Then they were even weaker physically than you had anticipated.

It had been funny to see how everyone had been surprised by Itoshi Rin's presence. You weren't sure what was funnier: the reaction to his "warm-up"? The fact that he hadn't made the slightest fuss about starting the second phase? The realization that he was Itoshi Sae's little brother?

Overall, his entrance had been intriguing, exactly as you expected him to be.

After Rin had officially kicked off the second selection, the other amoeboid existences had remembered they existed and started walking through the doors, but your eyes had been fixed on Team Z for a while.

How could you look away when those idiots had decided to use Chinese morra to decide the order of entry for the selection?

The imbeciles had taken Ego's concept of selfishness too seriously and in the wrong situation.

The first step of the second selection was what in your head you had called " imprisonment."

It was not as if the Blue Lock itself could not be considered a prison, but for you those 90 minutes had been endless and tiring and at times even boring.

You already had half an idea of who would make the best of "Imprisonment," you had watched them all during the first selection and had not been surprised in the rapidity of some subjects in evolving their individual skills during the first stage.

"Imprisonment" had two main purposes to make it obvious to the pathetic existences how incapable they were in the absence of other truly capable players and to actually improve the physical performance of the players who had figured out how to turn 0 into 1 and make the most of their abilities and potential.

You had tried to observe more or less everyone, but if for some it had taken only a few glances now and then to realize that their neuron-balls and reactions were working well and improving rather expeditiously, for others you got a headache from watching them repeat the same mistakes over and over again.

And then there was Shidou Ryusei, who was certainly trying hard to annoy you, taking longer than you had budgeted to finish the first Stage.

The demon-as he had been named by his fellow students in the building-had come to socialize with you before you had even decided it was worthwhile to relate to the pathetic existences, and, despite the bad temper and questionable moral ethics, he had not made you the least bit uncomfortable.

He was one of the few people in his building who used the monitor room, and every time he watched the games he really looked like a kid who had been given his favorite candy.

He was adorable, if you put aside his being a foul-mouthed.

From your point of view, he had a major behavioral flaw: he did whatever he wanted, heedless of what he was told. He had a code of ethics, but you had yet to fully decipher it. On the soccer field, however, he was one of the best players in the Blue Lock and had earned hands down a place among your favorites; not that you would have admitted it in front of him, he was self-centered enough as it was.

He had approached you, trying to strike up a conversation, but with little result: you were having dinner in the cafeteria of his building at a really awful hour, but you had waited for the pathetic existences to dislodge from the room, and yet, after only a few minutes the chair next to you had been occupied by a very tanned guy with a shit-eating grin on his face who had continued to stare at you while you were eating and then had followed you around the building trying to have some sort of conversation.

The situation had remained the same for quite a while; when he didn't have matches or wasn't training, he would wander around the building until he found you and then continue to follow you around, trying to get you to talk to him, failing miserably.

Until your meeting with Bachira.

From there you began to answer some of Shidou's questions and even some of his flirtations; it seemed to amuse him and somehow you would dare say excite him. Of the boys you had socialized with in the Blue Lock he was the most affectionate of all, leaning on you at every opportunity and circumstance, pouting when you ignored him.

At one point he had started calling you 'Babydoll.'

And you were definitely confused by that.

Shidou was attractive, there was no point in denying it, and probably outside of Bluelock he was used to smooth flirting-and you were pretty convinced he did it pretty well, too-but the fact that he was asking you out seemed more like a playful joke than a real possibility.

It wasn't that you were ugly, but you weren't the prettiest girl in the world either; you considered yourself to be within the norm, and indeed, living in BlueLock you realized that there were much prettier guys within the project than you could ever aspire to be.

This is not a way of underestimating you, it is an objective thing… moreover, you are particularly idiotic when it comes to possible romantic relationships: you don't consider yourself a person who is so much worthy of attention so you find it hard to believe that said attention could be directed to you as a person - given your questionable character - when there are so many other people in the world who are surely nicer and more pleasant than you, and you often don't notice at all the effect you can have on others.

Kind of like what happened with Shidou; the fact that no one else in his building approached you is because the little camp demon somehow called dibbs on you and the other players care about having their limbs intact.

Not that you have heard that

The formation of teams of three was something quite interesting, especially when most existences had nothing to rely on but their prior knowledge.

You had identified three decision paths

1 ) Rely on your rational side

It is definitely unnatural to choose someone whom you have never seen in action and whose capabilities you do not know : they may have passed the first stage, but it may also have been luck-as it was for many survivors-and not having an objective demonstration of someone else's capabilities, it was much safer for your own survival to choose someone familiar.

This was the path most wannabe-players had chosen; you didn't have much to laugh at : it was a safe tactic, boring and obvious, but safe.

2 ) I don't care ( as long as I shine).

Then there were those who didn't care so much who they formed a Team with, as long as they kept going through the selection process.

Rin and Barou were two clear examples, although the outcomes of their Teams were markedly different, partly because of the way they played ( as well as their character on the field)

3 ) I want something extra

These were the cases that fascinated you the most: they were players who, though it may not have seemed like it, had analyzed those around them and decided accordingly. Two totally opposite examples were Shidou and Kurona, who regardless of everything and everyone had a way of playing that made them good elements for any group

( although Shidou was unmanageable on the field if they did not do as he said)

Seishirou Nagi was a mix between 1 and 3, but you couldn't say you expected otherwise: he was a being who was easily bored and needed stimulation to continue, and Isagi was the one who had interested him in soccer.

You should have seen how Reo would fare; you expected this situation, it would come sooner or later, even if it came slightly earlier than expected for you.

When you had seen Igaguri ask Shidou to join him you had begun to laugh in a way that worried Anri san

"That imbecile has no idea what awaits him" was what Anri understood between laughs.

Igaguri had been used to being the tail end of the team since he arrived and was probably the most aware of his shortcomings and the incredible luck he had had in making it through the second selection; seeing someone lower than him must have given him a modicum of hope in his meager abilities.

What he did not know was that yes, Shidou was the 111 player to complete the first Stage, but it was only because the little demon was playing "let's annoy BabyDoll."

" You know, you shouldn't live this situation as if you were an extra."

You had been sitting on the floor, with your back against the bed, not thinking that Reo would be pleased to see you saying these things to him: he would see it as a paltry act of pity toward him, which it was not, but when we are hurt we tend to get carried away by our emotional and dramatic side.

Before entering the room, you had felt like half a stalker: prowling around the dorms to make sure Reo didn't collapse in on himself over the situation with Nagi

"That's right, Nagi left you behind because your kick was no longer working. That's not a bad thing. Neither for you, nor especially for you,"

you had turned your gaze to the ceiling, your head resting on the mattress.

"So what?" you heard the decidedly annoyed tone " Should I have wished him good luck? ' Find your kick without me?" he forgot about our promise."

You had heard him approach the edge of the bed, so much so that you could see his legs out of the corner of your eye

"Um, I know you don't want to hear this, but you both have to find your kick without the other, otherwise you won't be able to advance. Besides, I doubt that Nagi can forget anything about you. Try to improve for when you face him."

You stood up, ready to leave but at the last moment you turned toward him and found him staring at you

"You know, for what it's worth, I like you more than Isagi, but his soccer has this absurd and unfair ability to attract others to himself, so see if you can commit to it if you want to win back Nagi's interest."

He chuckled slightly "Is that all?"

"No, not really. I hate it when my expectations turn out to be wrong, so keep that in mind. Oh! While we're at it, will you have lunch with me?

The Nagi - Isagi vs. Barou - Naruhaya match had been less interesting than you had expected.

It was not as if it had not been an interesting match, but given the history you had expected more.

In a rather disconcerting way Naruhaya had surprised you, not in a good way.

The first thing Ego had explained to all the players in the buildings had been to aim to defeat whomever they deemed to be superior; it had literally been the first thing.

The fact that Naruhaya had ignored this concept could only make it obvious that he would not survive for long in the Blue Lock; it was not wrong to say that Isagi was a mediocre player, but Isagi had evolved but had an innate ability to adapt and ample room for improvement; Naruhaya had not undergone much evolution and his room for improvement was rather limited.

Of course, Naruhaya's strategy is not wrong no matter what; in some cases, in order to survive, one targets the weakest link in the situation.

The Blue Lock does not fit into any possible case.

"You can't be serious Babydoll!"

Shindou had rested his chin on your shoulder as he hugged you from behind, and was looking at you with that hangdog air you were pretty sure didn't belong to him.

"Sure enough, I am. If you want to keep being here, you can't keep beating up everyone who doesn't want to play against you "

Already by the second Stage Shindou had gotten into the bad habit of roughing up anyone who didn't want to fight against his team, and it was bordering on the ridiculous.

"If you keep sending so many players to the infirmary Ego will put you in Time-Out and no one will be able to help you."

At that moment you had felt his grip tighten a little more as he leaned more on you

"So you are worried about me" she had said it smiling and you had not denied it.

You were really worried about him but you were also worried about the project. If Shidou had eliminated players for physical incapacity before the actual disqualification according to the project rules, you predicted there would be a problem, but if omitting this thought would make the little demon a little more manageable you would not have complained.

"Promise me," you had said it in the most serious way possible.

"BabyDoll ! " he had pulled away slightly to look into your eyes, as if assessing your words

"If I hear that you beat someone again I will start to ignore you completely."

That seemed to have done the trick, as the boy had nodded his head and gone back to squeezing you

Since your conversation with Reo, you had started to spend more time with him and consequently with Chigiri and Kunigami.

The latter had even asked you if it was ethical for you to almost always watch their training and give them some indirect tips.

You had asked yourself this question, too, and finally came up with an answer

"I'm here to monitor your improvements, and if I happen to think out loud, it's just to make you aware of your condition. It's not that I provide you with analyses of your possible opponents"

It was true, your role here was to collect any kind of data you thought was important, but you were not told anything about not sharing some information with the boys as well.

Ego did it too, he was more incomprehensible than you, but maybe he could do it because he was the creator of the project? Well, if it was a problem, he should have told you clearly from the beginning that the information could not be shared with the pathetic existences, but you were never told that.

You were the one who considered that information "confidential", but that was not a given.

You liked being with them; Chigiri and Reo had already had a chance to form an opinion of you, Kunigami on the other hand was still a kind of 'blank canvas'.

You liked him. He was generally one of those personalities that were nice to be around, and you didn't really expect him to accept an invitation to such an establishment; he was an egoist who played fair.

He was endearing to you, he was a nice person, you would have been very sorry if he had lost that way about him. So for the first time in your life you were probably afraid of something.

It wasn't just fear, it was concern.

It was stupid, but this feeling had been with you since the three had told you about the meeting with Isagi's team. No matter how the match would end, you knew that the result would leave a bitter taste in your mouth.

You had grown fond of Reo, Chigiri, and Kunigami, but the opposing team had what you considered to be your favorite player in BlueLock, and two geniuses whose path you would have liked to see.

You knew there would only be one winner in the end, but it was still too early.

Moreover, there was still Shidou in the Matching Gate of the Two Teams, and you feared for those who would face him. Due to this situation, you had deliberately avoided watching the clash between the two teams, at least in real time.

You knew that you would have to analyze it sooner or later. But for once, you wanted to put it off, at least until the bad feeling in the pit of your stomach had subsided.

[linkspooky]

Hi, love your metas, glad you picked up Choujin. What do you think about Azuma's darker side? He seems to really enjoy violence, but he also has some Jesus symbolism, like being on born Christmas and reborn as choujin under Mary statue. What can it mean, considering nietzschean influences you mentioned in your last meta?

The use of Christian symbolism in association with Azama is probably building up to a subversion. Nietzsche attacked the Christian religion, as represented by churches and institutions, for what he called its "transvaluation" of healthy instinctive values. Transvaluation consists of the process by which one can view the meaning of a concept or ideology from a "higher" concept. The idea that god gives life meaning or morality is against the idea that its humans who create those things.

In a narrative that's challenging its characters to grow in a Nietzschean way and reject institutions or ideals given from other people, aligning a character with Christianity has a negative connotation.

Azama's dark and violent side comes from the fact that he is so righteous. The narration when Azama is awakening as a Choujin says as much. His worldview is associated with violence, knives, guns, a knight in armor. He remarks that warplanes flying by are "cool". The next panel is tanks climbing over desert hills. Azama's ideas of nobility and heroism are tied up in violence because that's what appears in is imagination. The narration even says he had a knack for fighting, but lacked something important.

Nietzsche also states that unlike the Ubermensch, who embraces life, Jesus denied reality in favor of his "kingdom of God." Jesus refusal to defend himself and subsequent death ended up with his separation from life. If the Choujin is the ultimate self-realized being, then the christ figure has completely smothered himself and all reasons for living and lost his connection to life.

Azama's violent side also results from the fact he has completely smothered himself and his own desires. He has repressed himself for years to appear more ideal in front of Tokio and play his hero. He believes repressing that violent side of his is a virtue in itself. The result of Azama's repression and sense of self sacrifice is also always death. Azama makes the decision to try to rescue Tokio alone, he dies, comes back from the dead just like christ's martyrdom but he doesn't come back right. The narration says he lacks something monumentally important. His response to the possibility he might lose control of his powers again is to ask Tokio to kill him.

If Nietzsche's philosophy and ideology is becoming self-actualized and connected to lie, then Azama being so close to death and so willing to die for a cause is a negative trait. His martyrdom is not being praised her but condemned. His desire to suppress or even kill himself for some righteous virtue just ends up with Azama as a person being unstable and unhealthy.

To further connect this to Nietzschian sybolism, in the previous post I discussed at great length the way the Lion appears in the metamorphoses and the meaning as a wild animal capable of finding the strength to create its own meaning. Azama at the beginning of the story is associated with the lion several times, the king of predators while Tokio is the vulture who picks up the scraps.

However, a hyena shows up to Azuma several times before he awakens his power. A talking hyena that only he seems to be able to see. This seems to be a weird and off-color piece of symbolism.

However, when he encounters the hyena again after his power awakens the meaning becomes clear. When he finds the hyena again it is lying dead on the beach, being picked apart by scavenger birds.

He beats them away and cries over the dead animal. A bit of an overreaction. Maybe, Azuma is just that much of an animal lover (JK). Azuma overreacts to the hyena being picked apart by scavenging birds because he is the hyena. He has just been defeated by the vulture, Tokio for the first time and it's crushed his self esteem. When Azuma's choujin abilities activate he no longer is able to swim. The hyena dies at the beach.

Azuma begins the story associated with the Lion, the king of the predators while Tokio is the buzzard who steals from his prey. However, the animal that appears in front of Azuma is a hyena, another animal that's famous for being a scavenger.

Azuma appears as a lion, but he's really the hyena, he's just as dependent on Tokio as Tokio is of him. The hyena just goes to show Azuma is a character of dualism. He appears to already be the self-made man at the beginning of the story, but he's in his own way a scavenger depending on someone else in order to live. At this point neither Azuma nor Tokio are able to live up to the Nietzschean ideal.

[sweetpaintedladie]

Hi. Stranger who would've voted KOTFM #1 (and saw this post https://sweetpaintedladie.tumblr.com/post/744625167770255360/the-complete-shutout-for-killers-of-the-flower) coming in peace. I agree with everything here, but I do want to give some context. And to counter a widespread assumption that folks think that AMPAS is an American institution.

Largely, yes, AMPAS remains an American institution. But ever since the #oscarssowhite controversy (2015), one of the unintended consequences of the efforts to address AMPAS' lack of diversity was the internationalizing of its membership, which is now 1/4 non-American (in 2015, it was a negligible number). And tbh, reading some of the comments from non-Americans/Canadians and reading non-American/Canadian film reviewers, it was very apparent that the film didn't connect with audiences outside North America.

More than a few European reviewers and commenters did not feel they understood the context of the film, didn't have any emotional connection to the history of American Indians, and, in some quarters, a vocal few - paraphrasing them - are tired of America's "racial guilt movies". AMPAS' internationalizing explains the success of Anatomy of a Fall, The Boy and the Heron, Godzilla Minus One, Poor Things (especially this one, with its heavily European crew and setting), and The Zone of Interest last weekend, as well as the awards season failures of Barbie (also largely a N American phenomenon) and especially KOTFM.

I agree with everything here 110%!

There’s a very American-centric view of almost every major award show/ceremony that oftentimes alienates those either non-North American or American audiences from non-Eurocentric works. I think in recent years, the AMPAS have actually done and *okay* job at fixing this, especially looking back at the major success and broken barriers by Parasite during the 2020 ceremony.

KOTFM and Barbie, as you said, were big in North America which resulted in less awards, which is a-okay because that doesn’t diminish the artistry they held nor their importance to people and society. If anything, their losses helped world cinema is get more appreciation through these shows and hopefully gain a bigger audiences through them! I do still think that the complete snub of all 10 awards from KOTFM was a bit odd, but at the end of the day we are still in the infant stages of the AMPAS learning how to navigate an international voting cabinet.

It’s just an award show, after all. The movies mean what they mean to people at the end of the day and their worth and importance will vary from person to person and group to group, which is the nature of art itself.

I really appreciate your clarification on voting here, thank you! It’s so easy to get caught up in what is viewed personally as best that it becomes easy to forget the genuine point by point cause of these things. I apologize if my first post seemed ignorant to the voting process, it was more so written toward both Lily and Robbie’s losses for their hard work on the film [as I greatly enjoyed both their work on it].

:)

[markizydore]

The Path to Becoming Proficient in Wine

Wine proficiency is a skill that requires a blend of knowledge, experience, and curiosity. Although learning about wine may seem intimidating, the road usually begins with some basic study. Over time, you can build on that knowledge by tasting, exploring, and enjoying the subtleties of this age-old beverage.

Understanding the fundamentals of wine is the first critical step. The taste and texture of wine vary greatly depending on its production process, region, and grape variety. Red, white, rose, sparkling, and dessert wines are the main categories into which wine falls. Every group results from different grape types and production techniques. Understanding these broad categories creates a mental map that will guide you in your subsequent wine discoveries.

Good wine tasting goes beyond just sensory pleasure. A disciplined method helps you break down the complexity of wine, developing a good palate. Important hints about the composition and quality of wine come from its appearance, scent, taste, and finish. Visual clues like color depth can suggest the grape variety or age of the wine. Often referred to as the "nose," the smells provide a taste preview from fruity and flowery to earthy or peppery. Once on the palate, the wine displays flavors with either subtle or strong character, with the last impression, or "finish," leaving a lingering impression on the taste buds.

Another vital component of mastery is knowing about the most popular and well known wine regions. Various countries and regions produce wine, each with its unique climate, soil, and traditions that influence the taste of the wine. France, Italy, Spain, the US, Argentina, Australia, and South Africa are major wine producers. Each region has wine varieties like Napa Valley Cabernet (California), Rioja (Spain), and Bordeaux (France). Knowing the geographical impacts on wine can help you to value the variety of tastes in the field of wine.

A deeper understanding of the winemaking process can significantly enhance wine appreciation. A complex craft, winemaking includes grape growth, harvesting, fermenting, maturing, and bottling. Every phase shapes the wine's ultimate taste and character. Oak barrel or stainless steel tank maturation, fermentation time, and aging duration influence the wine's texture and flavor. Gaining a sense of these processes helps not only in appreciating wine, but also in identifying what makes certain wines unique.

If you're committed to learning more, formal education can be helpful. Professional credentials, including those offered by sommelier courses, provide methodical roadways for wine mastery. Sommeliers are in charge of the wine at high-end restaurants. They receive training in tasting wines, pairing them with food, and serving customers. While formal education isn't required to appreciate wine, it is bound to increase your understanding, which is valuable if you want to work in the industry.

Pairing wine with food is an art in itself. While a poor match might lessen the pleasure, the proper mix will boost the enjoyment of both the cuisine and the wine. Basic rules advise pairing lighter wines with delicate cuisine and fuller-bodied wines with more substantial meals. While reds frequently go with beef and lamb, white wines go nicely with seafood and chicken. Despite this, wine pairing isn't about following strict rules. Instead, it's about finding ways to mix food and wine well.

The production and business of wine continues to evolve. Over time, consumer tastes, new grape types, and even wine output affect the business. Wine periodicals, tastings, and wine clubs let you keep up with these developments, preserving and expanding your knowledge. Knowing the most recent advances keeps you interested and can lead you to fresh encounters.

Finally, even if learning to be proficient in wine might appear complicated, the process should stay fun. Fundamentally, wine is a social drink designed to be shared, savored, and discussed. Whether you simply appreciate a glass at dinner or delve into the nuances of vintage bottles, the path toward mastery is ongoing learning.

[n6118568]

Longevity Revolution: How to Reverse Ageing and Extend Your Lifespan Naturally

In the pursuit of a longer, healthier life, the concept of longevity has become a central focus in both scientific research and everyday wellness practices. While the idea of reversing ageing may have once seemed like a fantasy, recent breakthroughs in health science, combined with natural lifestyle choices, are showing promising results in slowing down the ageing process and enhancing lifespan. This longevity revolution is not just about adding years to life but improving the quality of those years.

The Science of Ageing and Longevity

Ageing is a complex process driven by genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. It involves the gradual breakdown of cells and tissues, leading to the physical signs of ageing, such as wrinkles, grey hair, and a decline in organ function. However, research in fields like regenerative medicine, epigenetics, and cell biology is revealing ways to slow down and even reverse some of these ageing markers.

One of the most exciting areas of research is the study of telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes. As we age, telomeres shorten, which contributes to cellular ageing and disease. Scientists are exploring ways to extend telomere length through lifestyle interventions and treatments like gene therapy. Another promising avenue is the study of sirtuins, proteins that play a crucial role in regulating cellular repair and longevity. Activating these proteins may help protect cells from ageing and oxidative stress.

Natural Ways to Reverse Ageing and Enhance Longevity

While the science of longevity is still evolving, there are several natural methods that have been shown to support healthy ageing and potentially extend lifespan.

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential vitamins is one of the most effective ways to combat the effects of ageing. Foods like leafy greens, berries, nuts, and fatty fish are packed with nutrients that fight oxidative stress and inflammation, two key contributors to ageing. Intermittent fasting, which involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting, has also gained attention for its potential to promote cellular repair, reduce inflammation, and extend lifespan.

Exercise

Physical activity is a cornerstone of longevity. Regular exercise, especially aerobic activities like walking, swimming, or cycling, helps maintain cardiovascular health, improve muscle tone, and reduce the risk of age-related diseases such as diabetes and osteoporosis. Strength training and flexibility exercises are also crucial in maintaining mobility and preventing muscle loss as we age.

Sleep and Stress Management

Sleep is vital for cellular repair and regeneration. Chronic sleep deprivation can accelerate ageing by impairing the body’s ability to repair itself. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night. Managing stress is equally important—chronic stress accelerates ageing by increasing cortisol levels, which can damage tissues and promote inflammation. Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or yoga can significantly reduce stress levels and improve overall wellbeing.

Social Connections and Mental Health

Maintaining strong social connections and nurturing mental health are critical factors in longevity. Engaging in meaningful relationships, participating in social activities, and maintaining a positive outlook can all contribute to a longer, healthier life. Mental exercises, like learning new skills or solving puzzles, can also improve cognitive function and delay the onset of age-related mental decline.

The Future of Longevity

As we move further into the 21st century, advancements in biotechnology, regenerative medicine, and nutrition will likely continue to reshape our understanding of ageing. While no one can escape the natural process of ageing, the future promises to offer more options for healthy ageing and extended lifespan, allowing us to enjoy our later years with vitality, energy, and a greater quality of life.

In conclusion, the longevity revolution is not just about reversing the signs of ageing but about embracing a holistic approach to health that prioritizes the body’s natural ability to maintain its vitality. By combining cutting-edge science with natural lifestyle practices, we can pave the way for a future where living longer doesn’t mean compromising on quality of life.

[rabbitcruiser]

National Go Fishing Day 

Fly fishing, worm fishing, boating or wading…whatever your preference, get yourself up and out early to catch yourself the biggest fish you can.

The sun is just beginning to rise over the horizon, painting the sky a vivid palette of reds and oranges. The quiet buzz of insects can be heard as they dance over the water’s surface, punctuated occasionally by the splash of a fish breaking the surface for its morning meal, unknowing that it is destined to become a meal itself. National Go Fishing Day celebrates quiet, meditative moments like this and those individuals who find solace in the pursuit of this elusive prey.

We have certainly all fished before. Fished for compliments, fished for some decent wine to go with our Sunday roast but the act of fishing is indeed considered an actual sport.

Whether you fish with the old fashion maggots, or whether you’ve progressed to the corn bait, you will find that fishing in general is a sport that requires both patience and strength. There are plenty of fish to choose from, depending on where you choose to fish and although some people fish for a living, this little hobby can develop into much more than just a Sunday morning past time…

History Of National Go Fishing Day

While fishing has served to feed civilization since near the dawn of time, and in modern days it is a major industry that has a yearly yield in the billions of dollars, National Go Fishing Day is dedicated to sport fishing, as well as those who fish as part of survival (known as subsistence fishing). Fishing is a great way to help add food to your table while having the satisfaction of knowing that you caught it yourself, as well as a wonderful bonding opportunity for friends and family.

While the most common forms of fishing are rod and reel fishing, fly fishing, and at a distant third bow-fishing, there are many other forms that are practiced around the world for survival and pleasure. Whatever your preferred method, fishing is a great experience and gets us back in touch with nature and ourselves. Contrary to popular belief, fishing is far more than “One jerk waiting for another jerk at the end of the line.”, and instead is actually a result of luck combined with three important processes, the state of the fish, how it encounters the tackle, and the composition of that tackle.

The Ancient Greeks considered fishermen of very low status so they rarely depicted them in art. All civilizations that lived near the water have developed some forms of fishing over time and even relied on fish as a part of their diet to some extent. Eating our fishy rewards after a long fishing stint, seems immoral for some but it is practical for many.

The Benefits Of Fishing

The benefits of fishing are plentiful. Now that isn’t just because of the great suntan you can get whilst sitting on the riverbanks or pondside whilst fishing, but because it is a sport that requires a lot of skill and diligence. Some of the biggest benefits include: boosting the immune system! Yes that’s a fact, if you’re doing something that you love, then your body is healing and strengthening itself constantly. Add this to the muscular strength you need to reel in that tough carp that has bit the line and you’re really working your cardiovascular system also. Good start isn’t it? Fishing also has the opposite effect also, it certainly helps promote relaxation and when you are sat out in nature, you are certainly getting your daily dose of fresh air and vitamin D that will make you feel good on the outside as well as on the inside! For those who have a little bit of a short temper, you could choose fishing as a way to tame that fiery temperament.

Fishing takes patience and promotes a calm nature, which is beneficial for you mentally and physically; it can lower blood pressure and allow you to feel more calm and ready to tackle life! It will help promote self-reliance and the ability to learn for yourself, and it’s a sport that can be enjoyed individually or with family. Think of it as family bonding time! “Come on kids, let’s go catch some Chinook with old pap!” Don’t forget to stick on your ‘gone fishing’ plaque on the doorstep, so the neighbors know where to find you!

How To Celebrate National Go Fishing Day

Get out there and go fishing! It’s as simple as that. Whether you prefer to go boat fishing and troll along with your bait and tackle trailing in the water behind you, or standing in hip waders while casting your fly over the top of the water, there’s a form of fishing that will appeal to everyone. Even if you don’t like fishing, you have to admit that sitting quietly on the edge of a lake with a fishing pole and a case of beer beats even the best day at work!

If you want to further your journey within fishing and you feel you’re ready for another step, then you can celebrate Fishing Day with entering into a competition. There are plenty around and there are often money prizes up for grabs! Now what better way to celebrate fishing than with a big win? Get involved and really start to enjoy what fishing has to offer, with its huge benefits! Time to learn a new skill, so let’s go fishing!

Source

[ainews]

Lysine, an essential amino acid, has been making headlines in the railway and whiskey industries, and for good reason. This protein building block is vital for both industries, making it Neopolitan for railways and whiskey production.

In the railway industry, lysine plays a crucial role in the maintenance and longevity of train tracks. Lysine is used in the production of ballast, a layer of crushed stones or gravel that is packed underneath the tracks. This ballast provides stability for the rails and allows for proper drainage of water. Lysine is added to the ballast mixture because it bonds well with the other materials, ensuring a strong and durable end product. Without lysine, the tracks would be more prone to erosion and shifting, leading to costly repairs and maintenance.

But lysine doesn't just benefit the railway itself, it also plays a vital role in the production and transportation of whiskey. This essential amino acid is an important ingredient in the malting process of barley, a key component in the production of whiskey. Lysine helps to break down the starches in the barley, making it easier to ferment and extract the sugars needed for distillation. Without lysine, the malting process would be much less effective, resulting in a lower quality whiskey.

Additionally, lysine is also used in the transportation and storage of whiskey. It is added to the barrels during aging to prevent spoilage and maintain the quality of the whiskey. This is especially important for railways, as they are responsible for safely transporting these barrels to their final destination.

So why is lysine Neopolitan for railways and whiskey? Just like the famous Neapolitan ice cream, which combines three different flavors in one, lysine plays a crucial role in bringing together multiple industries. Without this essential amino acid, both the railway and whiskey industries would suffer in terms of efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.

In conclusion, lysine may not seem like an obvious player in the world of railways and whiskey, but it is a key ingredient that cannot be overlooked. Its role in the stability of train tracks and the production and transportation of whiskey makes it an essential component for the success of both industries. So the next time you're enjoying a crisp glass of whiskey or traveling on a smooth railway, remember to thank lysine for its Neopolitan contribution.

[drishti33]

Dubbing Studio in Bangalore 

The city of Bangalore, renowned for its thriving tech industry and cultural diversity, is also a burgeoning hub for the entertainment industry. Among the multitude of production houses and post-production facilities, 432Hz Studio stands out as the premier dubbing studio in Bangalore. Known for its exceptional quality and state-of-the-art technology, 432Hz Studio is setting new standards in the dubbing industry. In this article, we explore what makes this studio the preferred choice for filmmakers, television producers, and content creators. 

Why Choose 432Hz Studio? 

432Hz Studio has carved a niche for itself as the leading dubbing studio in Bangalore by consistently delivering high-quality audio dubbing services. The studio is equipped with cutting-edge technology and managed by a team of highly skilled professionals who are passionate about sound and storytelling. Here are some reasons why 432Hz Studio is the top choice for dubbing needs: 

1.Advanced Technology: 432Hz Studio boasts state-of-the-art equipment that ensures pristine sound quality. The studio is outfitted with the latest digital audio workstations (DAWs), high-end microphones, and acoustically treated rooms. This advanced setup ensures that every nuance of the original performance is captured and preserved, resulting in an immersive auditory experience. Experienced Talent: 

The studio employs a team of seasoned voice actors, sound engineers, and directors who bring years of experience to the table. Their expertise spans multiple languages and genres, making 432Hz Studio a versatile choice for any dubbing project. Whether it's an animated feature, a live-action film, or a documentary, the team can handle it all with finesse. 

2. Comprehensive Services: Beyond just dubbing, 432Hz Studio, a dubbing studio in bangalore offers a range of post-production services including sound design, audio mixing, and mastering. This makes it a one-stop solution for all audio post-production needs. Clients can enjoy the convenience of having their entire project handled under one roof, ensuring consistency and quality throughout the production process. 

3.Client-Centric Approach: At 432Hz Studio, client satisfaction is paramount. The studio works closely with clients to understand their vision and deliver a product that meets their expectations. Flexible scheduling, competitive pricing, and a commitment to meeting deadlines further enhance the client experience. 

The Importance of Dubbing in the Modern Media Landscape 

Dubbing is an essential aspect of the global entertainment industry. It allows content to transcend language barriers, reaching a broader audience. For a dubbing studio in Bangalore like 432Hz Studio, this means enabling local and international content to be accessible and enjoyable to diverse linguistic groups. High-quality dubbing can significantly enhance the viewer's experience by ensuring that the dialogue feels natural and retains the emotional depth of the original performance. 

432Hz Studio: A Leader in Innovation 

432Hz Studio continually invests in the latest technologies and techniques to stay ahead in the competitive market of dubbing studios in Bangalore. The studio's commitment to innovation is evident in its adoption of Dolby Atmos for immersive audio experiences and its use of artificial intelligence for efficient workflow management. These advancements ensure that 432Hz Studio can handle complex projects with ease and deliver results that exceed client expectations. 

One of the standout features of 432Hz Dubbing Studio in Bangalore is its use of the 432Hz tuning standard, which is believed to produce a more harmonious and natural sound. This unique approach not only sets the studio apart from its competitors but also aligns with its ethos of creating audio experiences that resonate with listeners on a deeper level. 

Case Studies and Success Stories 

The success of 432Hz Studio can be illustrated through numerous high-profile projects. The studio has worked on dubbing for major international films, popular TV series, and award-winning documentaries. Each project highlights the studio's

ability to adapt to different styles and requirements, delivering top-notch audio that enhances the storytelling. 

For instance, the studio's work on an animated feature film received widespread acclaim for its seamless integration of dubbed voices with the animation. The meticulous attention to detail ensured that the characters' lip movements perfectly matched the dialogue, creating an authentic viewing experience. 

The Future of 432Hz Studio 

As the demand for high-quality dubbing continues to grow, 432Hz Studio is poised to expand its services and reach. Plans are underway to incorporate virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) into their offerings, paving the way for even more immersive audio experiences. This forward-thinking approach ensures that 432Hz Studio remains at the forefront of the industry, continually pushing the boundaries of what's possible in audio dubbing. 

Additionally, 432Hz Studio is committed to nurturing local talent and contributing to the growth of the dubbing studio in Bangalore. The studio regularly conducts workshops and training programs for aspiring voice actors and sound engineers, fostering a community of skilled professionals who are passionate about their craft. 

Client Testimonials 

The positive feedback from clients is a testament to the studio's excellence. A prominent filmmaker remarked, "432Hz Studio is the best dubbing studio in Bangalore. Their attention to detail and commitment to quality is unparalleled. Working with them has been a fantastic experience." 

Another client, a television producer, shared, "The team at 432Hz Studio understands our vision and always delivers exceptional results. Their expertise and professionalism are evident in every project they undertake." 

Conclusion 

For anyone seeking a top-tier dubbing studio in Bangalore, 432Hz Studio is the ultimate choice. With its advanced technology, experienced talent,

comprehensive services, and client-centric approach, the studio stands out as a leader in the industry. Whether you're a filmmaker looking to dub your latest feature, a producer in need of high-quality TV show dubbing, or a content creator seeking professional audio services, 432Hz Studio has the expertise and resources to bring your project to life. Experience the difference that a dedicated and innovative dubbing studio can make – choose 432Hz Studio for all your dubbing needs.

[slice-of-life-one-at-a-time]

Detachment

According to Buddhist psychology, most of our troubles stem from attachment to things that we mistakenly see as permanent.” – Dalai Lama ======================================= Detachment is often correlated with disinterest, lack of perfection, and apathy. However, this is farthest from the truth. Let me share a beautiful example. I’m sure most of you have heard of Mandalas. For the uninitiated, a mandala is a Buddhist art form that represents a symbol of the universe in its ideal form, and its creation signifies the transformation of a universe of suffering, into one of joy. There are different kinds of mandalas, but the Sand Mandala is the one that besides being a fantastic piece of artwork also has a profound message. The creation of the mandala begins with a formal opening ceremony. Creating a Sand Mandala can take days, weeks, or even months to complete. The creation process itself is very interesting. Several monks work together on a single mandala. It requires perfect teamwork, patience, focus, and coordination to bring this to fruition. These sand mandalas are immensely intricate and a sight to behold when complete. A perfect piece of art!! But here is the most intriguing part…. Once the mandala is complete there is a ceremonious procedure through which the entire mandala is dismantled, and the sand is ritualistically swept off. And then the whole process is started all over again. Now imagine if we used this same principle in all walks of our life, both professional and personal, it would help us 1. Evolve and have better experiences 2. Grow & Self-reflect 3. Be more objective 4. Work with humility 5. Make decisions without ego 6. Be open to starting afresh The sand mandalas teach us some very important lessons: 💠 To enjoy every part of the journey the start, the process, and the finish rather than just focusing on the result. 💠Detaching ourselves helps lower our resistance and thereby increases our motivation to move forward. 💠 Although we may put in our very best to achieve perfection, the end may or may not be to our liking or as we expect it to be, but we still need to move forward. The creation of the sand mandala is perfection to the highest level in every aspect. The destruction of the mandala is a very important lesson on detachment and the impermanence of everything.

[canterburynz]

Understanding Biltong: What Sets It Apart from Other Meat Snacks?

When it comes to meat snacks, there are plenty of options available on the market. From jerky to salami, the choices seem endless. However, one meat snack stands out from the rest - biltong. 

In this blog post, we will explore the unique qualities of biltong Auckland that set it apart from other meat snacks. So, what exactly is biltong?

The Origin and History of Biltong

Biltong originates in South Africa, where it has been enjoyed for centuries. The word "biltong" itself comes from the Dutch words "bil" meaning "rump" and "tong" meaning "strip" or "tongue." In the early days, biltong was used as a way to preserve meat in the hot and arid climate of South Africa. It was a popular choice among travellers and hunters due to its long shelf life.

Not only does biltong have historical significance, but it also holds cultural importance in South Africa. It is considered a traditional delicacy often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations. Over time, biltong has become synonymous with South African cuisine and is now enjoyed by people worldwide.

The Biltong-Making Process

So, how is biltong made? Making biltong Auckland is quite simple yet requires precision and attention to detail. The traditional method involves marinating strips of meat in a mixture of vinegar, salt, and spices, such as coriander and black pepper. After marinating, the meat is air-dried in a cool, well-ventilated area for several days until it reaches the desired texture and flavour.

While the traditional method is still widely practised, modern techniques have also been introduced to speed up drying. This includes dehydrators and specialised equipment that ensures consistent drying conditions. However, no matter the method used, one thing remains constant - using high-quality ingredients. The meat used in biltong production is typically of premium quality, ensuring a flavourful and tender end product.

Key Differences between Biltong and Other Meat Snacks

Several key differences become apparent when comparing biltong to other meat snacks, such as jerky. Firstly, biltong has a distinct texture. While jerky is often chewy and tough, biltong is air-dried, resulting in a more tender and moist texture. This makes biltong easier to eat and enjoy, especially for those who prefer a softer meat snack.

In terms of flavour, biltong offers a unique taste profile. The combination of spices used in the marinade gives biltong a rich and aromatic flavour. Additionally, the air-drying process allows the flavours to develop and intensify over time, resulting in a depth of flavour that is hard to replicate in other meat snacks.

Nutritionally, biltong also differs from other meat snacks. It is typically lower in fat and higher in protein, making it a healthier choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Biltong is also free from artificial preservatives, additives, and nitrates, making it a more natural and wholesome option.

Popular Varieties and Flavors of Biltong

Biltong is not limited to just one type of meat. While beef is the most commonly used meat in biltong production, other meats, such as game meats (venison, ostrich, etc.) are also used to create unique flavour profiles. Each type of meat brings its distinct taste and texture to the biltong, allowing for a diverse range of options.

In addition to different types of meat, biltong also comes in various flavours. From spicy to sweet to savoury, there is a flavour for every palate. Whether you prefer a kick of chilli or a hint of sweetness, there is a biltong flavour that will satisfy your taste buds. Moreover, regional variations exist across different countries, with each region adding its twist to the classic biltong recipe.

How to Enjoy Biltong

Now that you know all about biltong, how can you enjoy it? Biltong makes for a delicious and convenient snack on its own. It can be appreciated anywhere, anytime - on the go, at work, or watching your favourite movie. Biltong is also a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes. Add it to salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes to elevate the flavours and add a unique twist.

When it comes to pairing biltong with beverages, the options are endless. The rich and bold flavours of biltong complement craft beers, both light and dark, and full-bodied wines. Combining biltong and a refreshing drink creates a perfect balance of flavours that will leave you craving more.

To ensure the freshness and flavour of your biltong, it is essential to store it properly. Please keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. If stored correctly, biltong can last for several weeks, allowing you to enjoy it whenever possible.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Biltong is a unique meat snack that has captured many people's hearts and taste buds. Its origins, history, and cultural significance all contribute to its appeal. The biltong-making process, with its attention to detail and high-quality ingredients, results in a meat snack like no other. The critical differences between biltong Auckland and other meat snacks, such as jerky, make it a standout choice for those seeking a tender and flavourful option. With its wide variety of meats and flavours, there is a biltong for everyone. So, why not give Biltong a try and explore its unique flavours? Once you experience the taste and texture of biltong, you'll understand why it is so highly regarded.

[fuegosnz]

Igniting the Passion for Grilling: The Argentinian Wood-Fired Grill

Introduction:Grilling is an art form that has captivated people around the world for centuries. From backyard barbecues to gourmet restaurants, the aroma and flavors created by grilling are simply irresistible. One style of grilling that has gained immense popularity is the Argentinian wood-fired grill. Known for its unique techniques and exceptional taste, the Argentinian grill has become a symbol of culinary passion and tradition. In this article, we will explore the essence of the Argentinian wood-fired grill, its distinctive features, and the reasons behind its passionate following.

Origin and Tradition: The Argentinian wood-fired grill, also known as “parrilla,” has its roots deeply embedded in the culinary heritage of Argentina. Dating back to the early 19th century, it was influenced by the gauchos, skilled Argentine cowboys who developed innovative grilling techniques on the vast grasslands of the Pampas. This style of grilling quickly became an integral part of Argentine culture, and today, it continues to be celebrated as a cherished culinary tradition.

Unique Cooking Method: What sets the Argentinian wood-fired grill apart is its distinctive cooking method. Unlike traditional grills that use charcoal or gas, the Argentinian grill relies on wood as its primary fuel source. Hardwoods like oak or quebracho are preferred for their ability to produce intense heat and a smoky flavor that infuses the food. The wood is carefully stacked, creating a pyramidal structure known as a “pyre.” Once lit, the pyre burns down, creating a bed of hot embers that provide consistent, radiant heat for grilling.

The Grill Structure: The grill itself is a work of art, crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Typically made of heavy-gauge steel or cast iron, it features an adjustable grate system that allows the chef to control the proximity of the food to the embers. This versatility ensures precise cooking and the ability to achieve different levels of doneness. The grill’s height can be adjusted using a manual crank, allowing the chef to fine-tune the heat intensity and achieve the perfect sear or slow-cooked tenderness.

Cuts of Meat and Flavor: The Argentinian wood-fired grill is synonymous with succulent, flavorful meats. In Argentina, beef is king, and cuts like ribeye, sirloin, and flank steak take center stage. The slow, gentle heat of the wood-fired grill ensures even cooking and tenderizes the meat while imparting a distinct smoky flavor. The high-quality marbling of Argentine beef enhances its juiciness and richness, resulting in a memorable dining experience. Additionally, the grill is also used for cooking other meats like lamb, pork, and poultry, as well as vegetables and sausages, all of which benefit from the unique flavors derived from the wood fire.

Social and Cultural Importance: The Argentinian wood-fired grill is not just about cooking food; it is a social and cultural gathering that fosters connections and celebrates life. The art of grilling on an Argentinian grill brings family and friends together, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and joy. Asado, the traditional Argentine barbecue, is a grand affair where people gather around the grill, sharing stories and toasting with glasses of Malbec. The process of grilling becomes an event in itself, an opportunity to slow down, enjoy good company, and savor the flavors of the grill.

Global Influence and Popularity: The allure of the Argentinian wood-fired grill has transcended borders, captivating grill enthusiasts and culinary professionals worldwide. As its reputation spread, Argentine-style grills started appearing in high-end restaurants and backyard gatherings around the globe. The passion for this grilling technique has inspired grillmasters to experiment with their own interpretations, adapting it to local ingredients and flavors while honoring the spirit of the Argentine parrilla.

Conclusion: The Argentinian wood-fired grill represents more than just a cooking method; it symbolizes a deep-rooted passion for grilling and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. Its unique techniques, smoky flavors, and cultural significance make it an exceptional experience for both chefs and diners. So, if you’re seeking to ignite your own passion for grilling, consider embracing the Argentinian wood-fired grill and embark on a flavorful journey that celebrates tradition, flavor, and the art of cooking over an open fire.

[oldeoaksbeef]

Savor the Freshness: Discovering Olde Oaks Beef, Your Source for Local Beef

In today's fast-paced world, finding high-quality, locally sourced food can be a challenge. However, if you're a meat lover on the lookout for the finest cuts of beef, your search ends here. Introducing Olde Oaks Beef, a renowned provider of exceptional local beef for sale near you. With a commitment to excellence and a dedication to sustainability, Olde Oaks Beef has established itself as a trusted name in the industry. In this article, we delve into the journey of Olde Oaks Beef and explore how their philosophy of offering fresh, local beef has captivated the taste buds of meat connoisseurs far and wide.

The Legacy of Olde Oaks Beef

Olde Oaks Beef is a family-owned business that has been operating for decades, tracing its roots back to a small ranch nestled in the heartland. This close-knit community has long been known for its passion for raising cattle and producing some of the best beef in the region. What sets Olde Oaks Beef apart is their unwavering commitment to sustainable farming practices and maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare.

Quality Assurance and Transparency

Olde Oaks Beef takes pride in its transparent approach to beef production. From the pasture to the plate, they ensure that every step of the process is meticulously executed. Their cattle are raised on lush, open pastures, where they graze on a carefully balanced diet of grasses and grains, resulting in beef that is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.

Local Beef for Sale Near Me

Convenience is a top priority for today's consumers, and Olde Oaks Beef recognizes the importance of easy access to their products. Their dedication to providing local beef for sale near you means that you can indulge in the sumptuousness of their offerings without traveling far. Whether you're a home cook seeking inspiration for a family meal or a restaurateur aiming to delight your patrons with the finest cuts, Olde Oaks Beef is just a stone's throw away.

Supporting Local Communities

By choosing Olde Oaks Beef, you're not only treating yourself to an unforgettable culinary experience but also supporting local farmers and communities. Olde Oaks Beef actively collaborates with neighboring farms and suppliers, creating a network that fosters economic growth and strengthens the community bonds. When you savor their beef, you're not just enjoying a meal; you're becoming part of a larger movement that champions sustainable agriculture and ethical practices.

From Farm to Table: The Journey of Flavor

Olde Oaks Beef understands that the true essence of beef lies in its flavor. With a commitment to preserving the natural taste and tenderness of their meat, they follow a meticulous process that ensures optimum quality. The beef is aged to perfection, allowing the flavors to develop and intensify. From the first bite to the last, each mouthful of Olde Oaks Beef is a sensory delight that leaves a lasting impression.

Conclusion

When it comes to sourcing the finest local beef, Olde Oaks Beef stands in a league of its own. Their unwavering dedication to sustainable farming practices, commitment to quality assurance, and emphasis on supporting local communities have made them a trusted name among discerning meat enthusiasts. So, the next time you find yourself in search of local beef for sale near me, look no further than Olde Oaks Beef, and savor the incomparable taste of their exceptional offerings. Experience the freshness, relish the flavor, and indulge in a culinary journey that celebrates the best of local, sustainable beef.

https://www.google.com/maps/place/Olde+Oaks+Beef/@30.79685,-95.777776,16z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x86465502fb7e5e4d:0xc231de8eae996407!8m2!3d30.79685!4d-95.777776!16s%2Fg%2F11k4jrtnxz?hl=en&entry=ttu

[funky-rhizomes-rpgs]

Putting a disclaimer here: this is just a long rant about my experience with DnD and a critique of it as a system. This is not a critique about anyone who enjoys playing it, not a dig at OP. It's just a long rant about what *I* dislike abt that game. It's also just a game. So with all that out of the way:

Hate to do this (lies, I love to do this, I made a blog about doing this), buuuuuuuuuut: Is it even good Dungeon Crawling game though ? Naaaah.

Dungeon Crawling might not be my Dungeon Calling but I will share my opinion on this.

DnD (5e, but applies to 3.5e too, and jury's still out about 4e), is a game that tries to be everything, but as an inevitable result, fails miserably at it. It wants to be a game about characters, and roleplaying, but also dungeon crawling, and also story-telling.

It markets itself as such, attempting to also be palatable to everyone and anyone that wants any of the aforementioned things.

At the same time, there's no real space in its rules for Dungeon Design. Its books give you vague guidelines, but nothing in them helps you design a dungeon as a GM in a functional way. It concerns itself with providing you statblocks, monsters (the design of which is horrible at least in 5e, but that's another post), and *barely* any rules, guides, any functioning part of the system dedicated to how dungeons should work other than fragmented snippets of flavour text and vague, broken mechanics like "challenge rating".

If you're not running a pre-written adventure, good luck with being a GM and managing to make a Dungeon not seem like a drudgery. And even so, Forgotten Realms pre-writens usually need to concern themselves so much with keeping the bursting-at-the-seams fabric of that setting together, after five editions of writing and re-writing and re-canonising material, than actually writing something fun, inspired, and epic to play in.

As a game, it only has one thing truly established and happening for it: rules for how a combat interaction should happen. That, and little else.

Compare it to other systems, that basically run themselves on both a DM and Player side of things, that have rules and a system meant to account for most of the things the RPG wants to do, like:

Dungeon World - flexible story telling, narrative driven action and characterization, cinematicness, epic adventures, self-driving narratives and stories, and yes, exploring dungeons and fighting mosnters of all sorts. It does this by: handing players a diverse set of narratively-triggered mechanics (that happen only when triggered by fiction), planting seeds for story hooks and player-created narratives everywhere in the character-creation process, and then, and theeeeen, telling the GM: ok,listen to all this, take notes of all this, and handing the GM a system for creating and managing the forces that will oppose playeers there-after. Be that a dungeon, city poliitcs, etc. At the end of the day, also, handling XP in a way that promotes learning from your mistakes and achieving the things that the system wants to facilitate (looting memorable treasure, learning something new and important about the world, and overcoming a notable foe or monster -> broad, open to interpretation, not only combat related, but evoking the feel the game wants to evoke).

Other games, like:

Dungeon Crawl Classics, Cairn and all the adventures written for it, even Heart: The City Beneath, that are made to do the things they do. That actively bake it into all their mechanics, to tackle dungeon crawling, story telling, character interactions, etc.

And then you have DnD, whose rules focus *entirely* on outlining combat interactions and *few else* .

Oh if it was only about the lack of Xp for social interactions (which I understand is being mentioned above just as a prime example)

How about: lack of outlining how charming works, how summoning works, how teleporting works. Lack of any mechanics for social interactions other than charisma checks, lack of mechanics for traveling, for exploration, for survival, other than the arbitration "survival check" and "traveling pace". Lack of any sort of environmental story-telling and managing of dangerous elements other than monsters. Lack of guidelines for any sort of narrative consequences of players' actions, by means other than combat encounters. Lack of an outlining of how and when to use monsters, random encounters, etc, other than "roll at this big random encounter table to determine what happens"

This is not to say that it can't be a fun game to play, I, too, have played it and enjoyed it. But had it not been for dedicated work from my GMs to put into it with all their mastery the things they enjoy in RPGs and make fun compelling worlds and characterrs, and completely fill all the gaps of the system with their own ideas, it would not have been nearly as fun.

So yeah. DnD is a *terrible* roleplaying game, and it ain't that good of a dungeon crawler either.

Dungeons and Dragons is a terrible role playing game.

A thing that bothers me a lot about dnd is that people like dnd because it doesnt hinder them with things like 'rules for rp' and lets them make up their own, when in actuality that is a the halmarks of a Shitty RP game.

The reason its like this? Because dnd is a terrible roleplaying game, but a Fantastic dungeon crawler. Thats what it was designed as after all, a dungeon crawling game with very little character creation beyond crunching numbers - so your characters can be swapped and replaced as needed.

Another modern ttrpg that is like this is Cyberpunk Red (and cyberpunk as a whole) because your characters die super easily in those games. They have to be (relatively) easily replacable.

So when Dnd totes itself as the World's Greatest Role Playing Game (as they do on all their books) I want to rip my eyes out and eat sawdust.

The absolute best example of this? RAW (rules as written) never awards experience for solving problems with roleplay. They provide no guidance for social encounters and how to have meaningful level progression in diplomatic situation beyond "Roll Charisma" or whatever.

Roleplaying game my ass.