#or b) requires a car that will take years to save up for

[cedarspiced]

reading the new lease form and rent has gone up to $1800 and that's not including any utilities at all

[yourlocalbreadenthusiast]

Kindly take a break from scrolling to read this, it's important.

Take your time to grieve and come to terms with the election results, but once you've done that, it's time to get to work. We have two months. And a lot to do in that time. We have to prepare, to be ready.

Be careful about what you post or say online. Anything potentially incriminating should be avoided. Threatening language, even if clearly a joke, can be used against you.

Know someone who's trans? Someone who's had an abortion? Someone who's LGBTQIA+? Someone who's an immigrant? Someone who attends protests? Someone who's disabled? Someone who might in any way be at risk due to laws being put into place? No you don't.

Move away from social media platforms and browsers that require you to use your real identity or input a large amount of personal information. Now's a good time to find alternate means of communicating online. Tails, Element, Tor, Mastodon, Firefox, and Lemmy are all decent options.

Find a community. Someone you can talk to, either online or in real life, that you'll have reliable contact with. We need to try and create a network, but one that's as anonymous as possible.

Start scrubbing your trail as much as possible. Get rid of old accounts that can still be traced to you but are no longer used, delete personal data off the internet. There are websites out there that will freely remove your data from the internet, but be careful about which one you use, make sure it's safe and legitimate first.

Change any usernames that you can that contain any personal information. Names, birthdays, anything.

Plan B has a four year shelf life. Stock up, but don't take more than you you'll need. We don't want a COVID repeat where everyone buys an excessive amount of things and leaves none for everybody else.

There are doctors that will sterilize you, if that's the way you want to go.

Stop using online period trackers right now. Delete all data from it if possible first, then delete the app itself. If you must, write it down, but in a subtle manner and on something you keep at home. Don't label it, just put the dates. If you're really worried, discard older records and only keep the most recent few, and label the dates as other random events, like "go to mall" or "chicken salad for dinner this night"

Get your vaccines now.

Save money.

Archive. We have to start collecting records, media, data, books, and articles now. On racism, on fascism, on homophobia, on gender, on self-reliance, on survival, on safe travels routes, on equality, on justice, on anything that may be useful and/or censored soon. We can't let them erase it.

Collect those online resources. Bookmark them, copy files into your storage, Screenshot pages. Create a decentralized library where everyone is working to be part of a whole, storing what they can individually and sharing it between one another. Again, be careful about doing this.

Second-hand bookstores are your best friend. Books are usually very cheap in them, and they often have a decent stock. See what you can find.

When buying ANYTHING I have mentioned above, or anything else that maybe put you in danger, try to use cash to reduce your spending trail.

Check your car information online, many newer models can be remotely tracked.

Turn your phone completely off if you may be at risk due to your location and current activities. Turning off your GPS also helps.

Take note of where you are. Who are your friends? Who's a safe person? Where can you go besides your own home that you know you'll be safe? Establish these connections now.

Who around you is not safe? Who and where do you need to avoid? Do you need to move? If you cannot afford moving but need to, there are fundraisers that can help you. If even that is not an option, at least try to make sure your home is secure. Have someone who can help you. Have a fallback safe place.

And finally, I want anyone with resources to put them in the replies. Flood it with useful links, information, tips, anything. We're in this together. Do not panic. Organize.

EDIT: Please be civil in the replies.

[leiawritesstories]

stay a while, it's safe here

Rowaelin Month, Day 8: Single Parents

Word count: 3,070

Warnings: angst, references to past abusive and toxic relationship, big heavy emotions, few scattered swear words

A/N: I'm both apprehensive and ready to share this, because it is...heavy. it's angsty. it's not a fluff fic. it has been in the works for a while now, though, and being able to share it means the world to me, so thank you deeply if you choose to read :)

also, i'll be taking a few days off after this, partially because the fic drained me a bit and partially because i've just started a new semester of college classes and i have a big fat paper for constitutional law class that's gonna require hella research

You only feel it when it's lost Gettin' through still has a cost Quietly, it slips through your fingers, love Falling from you drop by drop

~ Hozier, "Who We Are"

@rowaelinscourt

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Night had fallen over Doranelle when Aelin finally pulled off the interstate and slowed down as she drove up the ramp and turned into the slumbering city. The streets were nearly deserted save for a handful of other late-night drivers, probably travelers like herself, their vehicles chugging quietly through the gentle drizzle drifting from the skies. The light rain dusted a soft sheen of crystals all over the city; the drops glittered faintly in the yellow hues of the streetlights.

After what felt like an eternity, Aelin turned into the parking lot of a simple brownstone building whose sign labeled it "Mistward Hall Bed & Breakfast -- Your Home Away From Home." She found an open spot, parked her car, turned off the engine, and exhaled a soul-deep sigh of pure relief.

For at least a snatch of time, she was safe.

She glanced into the backseat, eyes locking on the small figure slumbering peacefully in the bright purple booster seat that had been installed in the car after multiple screaming tantrums. Four-year-old Alanna Galathynius was fast asleep, her mussed blonde curls squished against the side of her head where she'd leant into the carseat's headrest, her little button lips dropped halfway open as she slept.

"Mama will be right back, my little love," Aelin whispered. Grabbing her purse, she ducked out of the car, locked it, and kept one eye on the vehicle for the whole of the three minutes it took her to enter the B&B, check in, and return to the car, which was conveniently parked right by the entrance. Lana was still there, still peacefully asleep.

"Come here, little love," Aelin murmured, carefully unfastening her daughter's seatbelt and lifting the small child into her arms. "Shh, lovey, it's alright, Mama has you." She cuddled her daughter close, whispering softly to her as she took the overnight bags out of the backseat, arranged them so she could carry both the luggage and her daughter, and headed inside.

It was only a short walk to the suite where she and Lana were staying for a few nights, and Lana was still fast asleep when Aelin unlocked the door, entered the room, and laid her daughter on the smaller bed. Gently, she unfastened and took off Lana's shoes and jacket, slid the barrette from her unruly hair, and decided not to try and change her into pajamas. "You're safe, baby, I swear it. Rest now, Lana love," Aelin murmured. She kissed her daughter's forehead and tucked her into bed. Within fifteen minutes, she too was burrowed into the comfort of a warm bed, and sleep claimed her almost as soon as she had closed her eyes.

~~

It started with a collision and a smile.

Aelin was twenty years old, a senior at Adarlan University thanks to AP credit and accelerated courses, and she was walking back to the campus apartment she shared with Elide, Lysandra, and Nehemia when she collided with a body that had come out of seemingly nowhere.

"Oh god! I'm so sorry," she gasped, stumbling over herself, her feet, and her words as she picked herself up and scrambled to collect the notebooks she'd dropped all over the sidewalk.

"No, no, it's all my fault for not paying attention to where I was going." The guy she'd just run into--a few inches taller than her, standard athletic build, brown hair, brown eyes, khakis and a fraternity polo shirt--offered her a charming smile. "I'm Chaol Westfall, and I have no sense of direction."

That got her to crack a smile. "I'm Aelin Galathynius, and I really need to look at my surroundings once in a while." She shook his hand.

They exchanged idle chatter for a few minutes before Chaol flashed another of those polished, charming smiles and hit her with the unexpected, but not unwelcome, question. "Could I have your number, Aelin? I know we've just met, but I really want to get to know you better. Maybe coffee? Lunch?"

The warm, tingly feeling of being appreciated and asked on a date spread through Aelin's limbs. "I'd like that," she agreed, typing her number into Chaol's phone. "I have an insane schedule, but I'm always free on Tuesday afternoons."

"Tuesday it is, then." Chaol's parting smile stayed at the front of her mind until their first date. Which turned into another date, and another, and studying at his frat house, and visits to her apartment, late nights and exhausted crashes and everything.

His only potential flaw was how oblivious he was to when she was really, deeply struggling. But Aelin hadn't spent years fortifying the barricades around her mind and memory for nothing.

~

She graduated, and he was there for her, smiling his whitened smile and holding her close to his side, the perfect proud boyfriend. She got a job in the city, and he offered to let her move into his townhouse, even declined her repeated attempts to contribute to the rent. Let me take care of you, he insisted.

Being young and foolish and fancying herself in love, she'd acquiesced. Lost in the throes of young love, of first love, she hadn't recognized the warning signs until it was too late.

"What do you mean, I shouldn't drive myself to work?" Aelin literally couldn't understand where Chaol was coming from. "Babe, I've been driving myself around in this city for years, and everything has been perfectly smooth and safe and fine."

"You don't understand, Aelin, babe," he sighed, rubbing one hand over his face in what appeared to be worry. "The crime downtown, it's grown so massively in these last few months--there was a goddamn scene only a few blocks from your office last week!" He grasped her hands, running his thumbs soothingly over her knuckles. "I can't keep going through my days wondering if you'll leave work and find your car stolen or broken into or compromised and if you'll never make it back home." The anguish in his voice, in his face, was so convincing.

She stepped closer and looped her arms around his neck. "I can change my parking permit to one for the garage. It's not that much more expensive, and it's definitely safer than street parking."

He shook his head, pulling her closer as if in protection. "It's still not enough, babe. I...I need to drop you off and pick you up, otherwise I'm afraid I'll go fucking insane."

"Babe," she whispered, sympathy glowing in her still-innocent eyes, "is that the only way you'll feel safe?"

"Yeah," he murmured.

Aelin exhaled deeply, choosing to cede this battle. "Alright. You can be my chauffeur."

"Thanks, babe." He kissed her gently. "It's for the best, it really is."

For a while longer, she believed it.

~

A little over a year after she moved in with Chaol, Aelin went out with Lysandra and came home to an empty house, which made her stop for a moment. For as long as she could remember, Chaol had been home whenever she returned from going somewhere, or he'd been the one going with her, so he was there with her when she returned. So, the empty house threw her for a loop.

As did the lingering stench of cheap beer.

Still, like she'd become accustomed to doing, Aelin texted her boyfriend once she'd set down her purse. I'm home, babe. Simple and direct, the little heart punctuating the sentence a reminder that she was there and waiting for him.

He didn't respond.

It was late, later than she wanted to be awake, when he half-stumbled through the front door, the faint but unmistakable sheen of alcohol glazing his eyes.

"Hey, babe," she greeted him, tentative.

He blinked, slowly adjusting to his surroundings. "Aelin? Babe? Where are you?" His speech was clearly enunciated--perhaps he wasn't that drunk after all.

"Right here," she responded, coming to stand in front of him. "I texted you when I got home, just like you want."

"How long were you'n Lys out?" The question was casually asked.

She shrugged. "Oh, probably longer than we meant to be, but I haven't seen her in ages since we've been so busy, and I--ah!"

The sharp, burning sting of his palm across her cheek stunned her into silence.

He stared at her with huge, disbelieving eyes. "I'm so sorry, babe," he breathed, immediately folding her into his arms and spilling apology after apology. "I'm so sorry. I think I'm drunk, I don't know why I did that, god I'm so sorry, babe." He went into the kitchen and grabbed an ice pack out of the freezer, wrapped it in a towel, and settled it gingerly against the blazing red imprint on her cheek. "I'm so sorry," he repeated.

She believed him when he said that, too. She kept believing him the next time, and the next time, and the next time. He loves me, she told herself as she concealed the bruises with artistic makeup and stylish clothing. He isn't himself. He's drunk.

Are you sure he isn't himself? pushed a tiny little voice in the back of her mind. Or are you just believing him because he'll hurt you worse if you disagree?

She told that insidious, dangerously true voice to go fuck itself. Even if it was right, even if she was making excuses for a boyfriend who was a completely different man now that he was when she'd met him two years ago, he was still her boyfriend, and he still loved her. He said so himself.

Then she found herself pregnant, and everything changed.

~

Aelin had resisted telling Chaol she was pregnant for as long as she possibly could, both out of fear that he would react badly and out of her lingering worry that she had inherited her mother's fertility struggles and might lose the pregnancy. When she made it to the second trimester, though, she couldn't wait any longer, and she told her boyfriend. She was terrified, shaking with nerves the whole time.

Chaol was floored with shock, but he reacted surprisingly well. He swore that he'd clean himself up, that he'd stop going out to clubs and bars and parties with his old frat brothers, that he'd become the man and father he needed to be.

Pretty words. Empty lies, all of it.

At six months pregnant, with her heart just about ripping out of her chest, Aelin broke up with Chaol and moved out of his townhouse into Elide's apartment. He'd tried to sober up--for about two weeks, and then he'd chosen the party life over his girlfriend and unborn child. He'd come home wasted out of his mind. He'd...he'd hurt her, and he'd been completely callous to the horror that he could have hurt the baby.

So she left.

And he followed.

He followed her to work, where he cajoled her with pretty, plaintive words to come back home. He followed her to her new neighborhood, where he pleaded with her not to cut him off from the girl he loved. He followed her on her errands, where he listed all the reasons he was sorry and how he'd do better if she just gave him one more chance. He followed her to the doctor's office when she had ultrasound appointments, where he begged her to keep him in the baby's life.

It took Lorcan Salvaterre--Elide's huge, hulking, and honestly rather terrifying boyfriend--to convince Chaol to stay the fuck away from Aelin, who clearly didn't want to see him any more.

A month before Lana was born, Aelin left Adarlan for good, telling no one, and flew back home to Orynth. She changed her phone number, her email address, deleted her rarely-touched Instagram account, bought a new laptop and wiped the old one clean before discarding it. Her cousin Aedion gave her his spare room, no questions asked, and provided the steady, stable support she needed during the last month of her pregnancy, through her birth, and through her recovery.

Over the flurry of months that turned too quickly into years, Aelin found herself slowly healing, the cracks in her fragile heart repaired with the love of her family and friends and the all-consuming love she bore for her daughter. She grew more secure; she laid aside the tension and anxiety that she'd turn around one day to find Chaol behind her, ready to barge back into her life and steal everything she'd come to love.

She should have known that he would hold a grudge.

~

"What the fuck are you doing here?" The words spilled out of Aelin in a breathless gasp.

Standing opposite her in the parking lot of the grocery store, Chaol lifted his hands to placate her. "I'm not here to cause any trouble, babe."

"Like hell you are." Her vehemence came as a surprise. "I'm not falling for your bullshit lies anymore, Chaol. Why are you here?"

His face hardened. "You've kept my daughter away from me for years, and you have the fucking nerve to ask me what I'm doing?" He laughed coldly. "She's mine too, Aelin."

"She will never be your daughter," Aelin hissed. "You forfeited any claim you might have had when you...when you ab-ab-abused me." The last words came out in a halting rasp.

"Don't be dramatic," he condescended. "I admit I've had troubles with anger management, but I would never consciously hurt the girl I loved, and I'd certainly never abuse her."

Her jaw slacked in disbelief. "You are such a liar," she breathed. He isn't worth your time, her inner voice reminded her, and so she breathed deeply and ended the interaction. "Go home, Chaol. Don't you ever step foot in my personal space again."

Chaol followed her to Aedion's house, because he just didn't know how to stop or when to take no for an answer. He stayed outside the house, too smart to pull into the driveway and trespass on private property, but too stubborn to admit defeat.

"I'm terrified, Aeds," Aelin admitted after dinner, curled up in a tight, tense ball on the couch. "He just...he's not going to just disappear."

"He will if I make him," Aedion growled. "Bastard."

"Language," she chided, shooting a sharp look at Lana, who was happily throwing foam blocks around the living room. "That's all kinds of illegal, Aeds."

"Legal and illegal don't matter when your probably-psychotic ex is stalking you, Aelin."

She was quiet, knowing that her cousin spoke the truth. "I won't let him force me to run."

"But you want to leave, anyway."

"Yes." She nodded, firmly. "Only for a little while. It'll be like a vacation, just me and Lana. It'll leave you and your...friends...free to handle the Chaol situation."

He propped his chin on one fist and latched his solemn gaze onto hers. "Are you sure, Ae?"

"I am." Despite the deep-seated fear glimmering behind her veil of conviction, Aelin's voice was strong.

"Okay." Rising, Aedion wrapped Aelin into a breath-stealing hug. Just soft enough for her to hear, he whispered one word into her ear.

Doranelle.

The mountain city was just over 500 miles away. It had been on Aelin's vacation bucket list for years, and she'd never made it out there.

"Lodging?"

"Here." He scrawled a phone number on a piece of scrap paper. "One of my buddies always rattles on about this place."

"Okay." She gave him a hesitant but genuine smile and headed down to her room to pack and make a reservation.

~~

Rowan had the night shift at the B&B that week, because he had stupidly gone and agreed to switch shifts with Enda. Lesson learned: never trust a man who says he prefers stay-home nights. Most guests came in and out during the daytime and early evening hours, though, so he didn't entirely mind the night shift. It was just a pain having to stay half-awake in case he was called to the front desk.

As if the thought had summoned it, the buzzer went off. Rowan suppressed a tired sigh and walked out to the reception desk, sliding a toned-down version of his customer service smile onto his face. That smile morphed into something damn near awe when he saw the impossibly beautiful woman waiting at the front desk.

He shook himself out of that highly unprofessional thought. "Hello."

"Hi." Through her exhaustion, the woman could barely muster a tiny hint of a smile. "I'm here to check in. Aelin Galathynius?" She held out her driver's license and credit card.

He typed the name into the computer and nodded. "Three nights, yes?"

"Yes."

"Perfect." He checked her ID. Aelin Galathynius, a poetically lovely name fit for such a stunning woman. "Do we have permission to keep this credit card on file for incidentals for the duration of your stay?"

"Yes."

"Thank you." He typed something else. "All right, Ms. Galathynius, you're all checked in." He passed back her ID and credit card and handed her a key--a real metal key. "You'll be in room 203."

"Thank you." She offered him another tiny, tired smile and went back out to her car. In a handful of minutes, she reentered, pulling two suitcases and a toe bag behind her. And carrying a fast-asleep little girl with the exact same hair and face structure as hers.

Rowan had seen a vast myriad of travelers passing through the B&B throughout the years his family had owned the place--families, single people, friends, students, commuters, the list was endless. He liked to think he'd grown proficient at reading the stories on the travelers' faces as they passed through; he liked to imagine what could have brought them to scenic, picturesque Doranelle.

The woman--Aelin--the exhaustion on her face and the tender protectiveness with which she cradled her child told a story Rowan had never wanted to see again. Hers was a story of pain that followed in her footsteps, but also of the incredible strength it took to push forward and of the powerful love she clearly had for her child.

He didn't know Aelin. He doubted he ever would know her, other than as a guest passing through the Whitethorn family's B&B.

In that moment, though, Rowan knew that he would do anything that that woman wanted, whether his actions would be known or not.

Even make the demons from her past disappear.

"Stay a while," he whispered after Aelin had gone upstairs. "It's safe here. You are safe here."

~~~

[tipsycad147]

The Fearful Stigma of Herbs and Energy Known as “Witchcraft”

Witchcraft has an enormously stigmatized history. Ya know, burnings at the stake and whatnot. Growing up in the heart of the bible belt, I feel as though I’ll be burned just writing this.

A notoriously violent species, we are. Though the fact that it IS safe for me to write these words lends to the belief that we really are living in the safest time in written history.

Even if it doesn’t seem so.

Fear follows that which isn’t understood. And where there is fear, there is violence.

Understanding is what we should all be seeking in all things to remedy the conflicts of the world. BUT ANYWAY, let’s take a look at witchcraft and what it is exactly.

If you were able to travel back 1000 years and face someone of that time with the contents of your pockets, you would “Risk” (Emphasis on that word) be labeled a witch because you possessed a magical device with moving pictures upon it.

You recognize this as science. What is science but magic that we have studied enough to understand?

In a world where google doesn’t exist and understanding is based on the individual education level of the often scare resources of who you talk to, it’s easy to see where “magic” would be used to fill in the gaps of confusion.

Magic Vs Magick

“Magic” is Harry Potter. Flying cars and Unicorns.

“Magick” is science that is still eluding us. For what is science but the workings of the natural world? And all that is, is.

It ties together all aspects of life. The connection between the physical and nonphysical, all scientific and some unexplained.

Despite what limited beliefs we may tie to it’s definition and understanding. We don’t have to understand it for it to be true. Like a child who doesn’t have to understand the workings of technology for it to exist.

Witchcraft is the art and spiritual practice, often healing in nature, that ties it all together.

The Order of Healing

As discussed in the podcast episode above, healing is easiest accomplished in the order presented to us in Moslow’s Pyramid which can also be translated into the chakras.

The concept is that you must start at the bottom and secure a solid foundation before we’re able to build upon that base.

Witchcraft Through History

Other/older cultures / /civilizations revered witches as:

Leaders

Seers

Healers

Priests

Priestesses

Advisors

Teachers

Wise men/women

We could talk about Christianity and the effect it had on the world from a societal, cultural, philosophical point of view in a lot of directions but let’s save that for a podcast episode.

I’m sure you’ve heard of the crusades.

Anyway, enter politics, I’m sure. It’s all just “spicy psychology”, right?

Holding “powers” of knowing, understanding and working with the natural world required skills and knowledge often passed down from one “witch” to the next.

These people were the leaders of the village. Looked up to for their guidance and translations. They healed with their herbs, offered advice to the workings of community and were loved among their people.

Skills once celebrated began to be labeled witchcraft and demonized with the rise of the patriarchy and Christianity along with it. Including but not at all limited to:

Living in harmony with nature / the universe

Crystals

Herbalism

Meditation

Spirituality

Energy work

Midwifery

“old wives tales”

Living with the tides of the seasons, elements, cycles of the moon, etc

Side Notes

Patriarchy demonized women and the powers they held in these areas of natural science.

Media painted pictures of villans

Humans fear that which is different and mysterious (Men women and children killed for being different

Wicca is a whole religion. Some wiccans are witches. Not all witches are Wiccan.

The root “wic” or “wicca” means “wise”

Witches were seen as keepers of knowledge

“Wiche” – to practice witchcraft – old English

Lots of origins, barely varying

Phytoncides: antimicrobial compounds created by trees and breathed in by us during forest bathing.

https://earthandwater.co/witchcraft-a-stigma-of-natural-science/

[the-adventures-of-john-and-timmy]

Remember kids, don’t ever follow your dreams! Frequently, the you you are when you’re a kid is totally incapable of grasping just how fucking exhausting being an adult is, and will pick something cool and fun like astronomer or linguist or paranormal investigation. Conveniently not realizing that A) all of these things require so much more math than you were expecting, B) non of those majors are getting your bills paid, C) somewhere down the line you’ll get roped in to a “breath a word of this and you die” kind of government job trying to speak to some recently contained Xeno-sapiens, and despite having replaced your car battery just two months ago, you’ll end up stuck in the woods between your shitty job and your shitty house with nothing but your car keys to protect yourself from the giant alien pinning you to the dirt.

Stupid fucking back roads. No where to run. No serendipitous passerby. And no light save for the emergency flashlight John had dropped.

A long, lean and spined tail swished back and forth proudly, strong animal like legs were covered in mud -and what John could only hope was suspiciously red mud- a tattered pink shirt/dress covered most of the body yet still made visible the short and wet gray fur. Large pointed ears sat twitching about in blue green hair but the rest of the creatures face remained in shadows. Since joining his job he’s seen a lot of non earthly creatures, but this one did share some similarities with his current projects. Still he couldn’t be for sure without seeing the ey-

“Jhewehgerat Nu’gzhut Ho’kt Yiks,”

Or by hearing the language. The same language he’d been spending months trying to decode.

“Ho’kt Yiks Til’ete!” John shouted. It was his best version of “I am not a threat,” though the notion of John being a threat to a giant alien made of razor blades was probably pretty laughable.

Incidentally the creature did laugh. And laugh. And laugh. The damn thing howled with laughter so strong he fell over on his side, clutching his ribs. Unbeknownst to John the cultural connotation of his words made his sentence closer to “I’m a widdle smol boi,”.

John watched frozen, unsure if moving would break the spell, when Elns words of warning came back to him.

Extremely friendly and playful.

Even the three in custody -who were all on a decent amount of sedatives at all times- showed a strong desire to play, though each one did prefer a different kind.

The largest (who had actually given John the human nickname Brad to refer to him as) liked to play cards. John had gotten the most work done with him, though he still didn’t grasp the rules of the game where you threw the cards.

The smallest, Kh’lorilkilmitas or Kh’loril for short, liked to play mind games. Where Brad was dumbing down his language to get his point across to the language equivalent of a 5 year old, Kh’loril was very purposefully taking advantage of one of the few advantages he had over his captors. John couldn’t really blame him for that, but the tone in his words and the way he held so still like he was trying to trick his prey into thinking he was already dead, left John feeling very uneasy.

The most recent capture didn’t even have a properly balanced dose of sedatives, let alone a name. He wanted to play fight. Or maybe just fight. John hadn’t even been able to get close to his containment unit without the other damn near shattering the glass by excitedly ramming into it.

That being said, neither of the first two seemed to be concerned with the banging and yelling he created from his room down the hall, and Brad had offered to help him get some steam out, so maybe it was normal play fighting he was after.

Even still…

John’s focus returned to the wild alien next to him.

There was no way of knowing what this one wanted.

The creatures laughter died down and it rolled back over to rest his head on top of John’s chest and began picking away at the turtleneck his sweater.

Well there was ONE WAY TO TELL.

“aaaAAAAHHHH STOP XEGT XEGT! CAGH CAGH!” John’s hands grasped uselessly at the other, dwarfed in both size and strength.

“Does your Spanish need help? Learn fast and easy with Rosetta Stone!” The creature said suddenly. It’s voice was eery and strange now, not the easy and confident tone it had held earlier, this almost sounded like the recording of a woman. The Klykolians in captivity had shown a remarkable ability to pick up on languages, albeit a strong disinterest in make John’s job any easier so they rarely used what they learned. But this scripting seemed less for the sake of communication and more… as a joke?

The creature put the yarn of John’s sweater in his mouth and slurped with the speed and power of a drill with hair caught in it.

AH FUCK WHY DID THIS SHIT ALWAYS HAPPEN TO HIM?!?! Why couldn’t it happen to Raz or Monroe, or one of the staff members who was smart enough to carry a firearm on th- oh wait he did have a taser.

Thankfully his hands were free to dip into his pants and bust out the graduation present from his apparently-not-overly-concerned parents. 60,00 volts directly to the torso managed to get the creature to flinch off and away from him. A small victory from the entrenchment of a still very huge problem. Granted before John had time to congratulate himself the taser was swiped out of his hand.

Fuck now he’s done it. Not fast enough to out run him, not strong enough to get his weapon back, and he’s surly just pissed him off. The creature zapped his own finger. Zapped it again. And suddenly erupted with giggles, raptor like feet tapping excitedly on the ground as he began to zap every inch of his body that he could reach.

This wasn’t going to be entertaining enough for a full get away though. Especially not with his car broken down. Something else… he needed something else to get the playing field on his terms…

“AH UM! Tatag Teg’g?” Want eat? Fuck he didn’t know the word for food. “Uh uh, Oom!” Treat worked well enough as a synonym for now. John pointed at his car to more clearly indicate that the treat he was offering was most definitely NOT his own flesh

The creatures paused. Tased himself once more. It glanced at the car, then back and John. Slowly it got up and turned around, jumping on top of the car once and then twice. It scratched around the exterior, sighed, shook its damp fur and then hopped down to pick John up by the arm pits.

“Show us what you’ve got!” Once again the prerecorded voice of an announcer woman sounded from his throat.

With no shortage of flails and grunts, John managed to get out of the others grasp and into the car. Lucky he always kept snack in here. Corn nuts, beef jerky, the kinds of things he could leave in the center console of his car and forget about until he needed them. He was about to turn around and re-emerge when the whole car shook with the weight of a new passenger.

“OoOoh Hukxag’k! Cagh Ghkta Ststptat!” The giant creature promptly made an unsalvageable mess of John’s back seats by very politely curling up and laying down.

John was still double checking his translation of “oooh cool! No more rain!” When the creature reached over and grabbed his corn nuts.

“Tilimilinikitala Teg’g Otergheed?” He pointed at himself. John stared stupidly for a moment, utterly bewildered at this rogue alien creature who had moments ago held him to the ground at his mercy, and was now shoved in a car that was not made for him, asking for permission to eat snacks that had already been offered to him.

The alien snapped his fingers in John’s face “GOOD MORNING AMERICA,” came the generic radio host voice.

“Ah yes! Uh, Xazhit!” The creature laughed at him again but waisted no time in ripping int the bag of fun and exotic alien gas station food.

“Hahahah ‘Xazhit’,” the alien mocked his word choice while popping corn chips in his mouth and crunching down on them louder than John realized was possible. John sighed and closed the door to his car, happy for the moment of peace but what the fuck was he gonna do now? He’s had a very illegal very alien very unpredictable creature in his car, the worlds most dead cellphone battery, and a very long running streak of bad luck.

Entirely uninterested in John’s lamentations the creature poked John in the face, “Say it with me now folks-! Xa! Cagh ‘Xazhit’! Xa!”

“Xa?”

“Ding ding ding ding ding! Xazhit Yiks… mmm,” he held a fist to his chest and dropped his voice to do an impression of a soldier. “‘Xazhit Mixkdéght Touqga!’. Xa Yiks…” this time the creature pantomimed taking a drag of a blunt, let his arrows go wall eyed and did his best impression of a California surfer dude. “‘Xa Shegs,’. Do you understand what I’m saying to you Malcom?”

This was the most surreal moment of John’s life.

“Xa…”

“Woohoo yeah!” The creature cheered and laughed, corn nuts spilled on to the ground and the car shook just enough to somehow start the engine again. John’s head whipped around to his dashboard to find all the lights glowing dauntingly at him. There’s no way that just happened. But when one shoe fell-

“Hey, uh. Troghtht Ho’kt Kit’olma?” What’s your name?

“Tilimilinikitala or Tilimi Wequet Fwit,” (Tilimi for short) and there’s the other shoe.

The missing klykolian that the ones in custody blamed for their arrival here.

“These specimens have been conditioned for contact. They’re safe. But if you see them in the wild, DO NOT approach. It’s very dangerous.” “Why? Are they aggressive?” “No, they’re extremely friendly and very playful. That’s why it’s dangerous.”

[craigs-everything-blog]

Minibus Taxi & Coach Hire With Driver | Cabzilla

We are the leading provider of all ground transportation for taxi minibus, minibus and coach hire services. We aim to save lots of your time and money when it comes to booking transport – whether you’re off on holiday, going to the airport, arranging for passengers to be transported to a marriage ceremony or an educational trip, we’ve got hires to cater to for all or any sized groups and any kind of events.

Yet we provide a versatile service to cater to any requirements, whether you’re trying to find a budget taxi minibus hire or a premium vehicle hire service. We’re renowned for our ability to cater to groups of all sizes with a varied fleet of car, bus or coach hire with drivers – all for a reasonable cost!

Why Cabzilla Coach And Driver Hire?

We offer a large selection of Coach and driver hire with both budget and premium cars and minibuses,  that will seat any size of passengers from individual, small or large travelling groups.

Hence our taxi, minibus, coach and driver hire in the UK  include transport for parties, weddings, and company events. Our fast and straightforward booking system takes the strain out of arranging transport. With our service, getting from A to B has never been easier – book today to form massive savings on your taxi hire, minibus hire, or coach hire for your journey!

Of course, with over a decade of experience within the industry, we have a record for the best taxi, minibus and coach hire service within the UK. Our services are employed comprehensively by local, national, and international companies and individuals alike. On the one hand our operation work round the clock 24 hours daily 07 days every week and three hundred and sixty-five days a year.

Truly we have amazing vehicles and prices to match all budgets.

However, our trustworthy reputation and years of customer satisfaction have helped us become an outstanding company to travel with, for all public ground transportation. So please call us today to get your no-obligation quote, additionally, you can WhatsApp on 07447 889980,  or why not fill in our quote form to receive an instant price for your journey.

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Our Vehicle Fleet

Taxis – Private Hire Taxi

Compact taxi for solo trips to 4-seater cabs – our most intimate vehicles, perfect for a limited number of passengers.

6 seater taxi cabs: Up to 6 passenger taxis: Compact and perfect for small groups journeying to or from the airport.

Accommodating up to 8 passengers, this 8 seater minibus is ideally equipped for intimate group excursions, stag and hen dos, business travel, and longer-distance journeys.

Please visit our taxi booking page for more information and a free quote.

Minibus Hire Taxi

12 Seater Minibus Hire

For group outings to festivals or football matches, our 12-seater minibus is a favoured choice. Travel together and make the journey part of the experience.

14 Seater Minibus Hire

Our 14 Seater Minibus with seating for up to 14 passengers, is commonly used for local city tours and for transporting employees both locally and nationwide.

16 Seater Minibus hire

Our 17 seater minibus accommodates 16 passengers, excluding the driver. It’s the perfect choice for transporting large groups, regardless of the occasion.

Please visit our coach hire and minibus hire page for more information and a quote.

Midi Coach Hire

Travelling in the UK has never been more comfortable or convenient. Welcome to our Midi Coach Hire services, where we have the perfect vehicle size to suit your group’s needs. Whether you’re planning a corporate event, a school trip, or just a day out with friends, we have the ideal coach for you.

19 Seater Midi Coach Hire

Perfect for smaller groups or corporate teams, our 19-seater midi coach ensures everyone travels in comfort. With spacious seating and ample storage, it’s the best option for short trips or city tours.

21 Seater Midi Coach Hire

Slightly larger than the 19-seater, our 21-seater midi coach is ideal for medium-sized groups. With added space, it provides the perfect balance of comfort and group cohesiveness for your travels.

25 Seater Midi Coach Hire

Planning a family reunion or a weekend getaway with friends? Our 25-seater midi coach is just what you need. With spacious interiors and modern amenities, your group is sure to have an enjoyable journey.

29 Seater Midi Coach Hire

For larger groups who prefer a more intimate setting, our 29-seater midi coach is the way to go. Whether it’s for an educational trip or a corporate outing, this coach provides a comfortable ride for all.

33 Seater Midi Coach Hire

Our 33-seater midi coach is the pinnacle of group travel. With enough space for everyone to relax and enjoy, it’s the ideal choice for longer journeys or when you just want that extra bit of room to stretch out.

Anywhere in the UK, For Any Occasion No matter where you are in the UK or what the occasion is, our Midi Coach Hire services have got you covered. With a fleet of modern, well-maintained coaches and professional drivers, your safety and comfort are our top priorities.

From the rugged landscapes of Scotland to the historical sites of London, we make sure you travel in style and ease. Whether it’s a wedding, a sporting event, a concert, or just a sightseeing trip, trust us to get you there.

Book Your Midi Coach Today Don’t delay, secure your ideal coach for your upcoming trip. With our flexible booking options and competitive pricing, you can be assured of a seamless travel experience. Get in touch with us today and let’s make your journey memorable.

Please visit our coach and minibus hire page for more information and a competitive quote.

Large Coach Hire

When you’re looking to transport a group, whether it’s for a corporate event, a school trip, a family reunion, or any special occasion, you need a trusted and reliable coach hire service. Our fleet of large coaches caters to groups of various sizes, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey for everyone on board. No matter the destination within the UK, we’ve got the perfect vehicle to suit your needs.

Our Coach Hire Fleet

35 Seater Coach Hire

Perfect for medium-sized groups, our 35-seater coach offers a comfortable seating arrangement and ample luggage space. Whether you’re off to a corporate retreat or an educational trip, this coach ensures everyone rides in style.

39 Seater Coach Hire

A step up in capacity, our 39-seater coach is designed for those groups that need just a bit more space. Equipped with modern amenities, your group will appreciate the spacious interior and comfortable seating.

45 Seater Coach Hire

Ideal for larger groups, our 45-seater coach provides a blend of comfort and space. Whether you’re attending a sports event or a concert, this coach ensures everyone travels together without a hitch.

49 Seater Coach Hire

One of our most popular options, the 49-seater coach caters to groups heading to conventions, festivals, or long-distance trips. With plenty of legroom and storage space, it’s a favourite among many of our clients.

53 Seater Coach Hire

Suitable for very large groups, the 53-seater offers a spacious interior ensuring that everyone can enjoy the journey no matter the distance. Ideal for school trips, large family gatherings, or company events.

59 Seater Coach Hire

The largest in our fleet, our 59-seater coach is the ultimate choice for those mammoth outings. Be it a grand wedding party, a major corporate event, or a big school trip, this coach promises a smooth journey for all.

Coach Hire For Every Occasion

No matter the occasion, we’re here to provide a seamless transportation experience. From weddings to corporate events, sporting events to music festivals, or even just a sightseeing tour, our large coaches are at your disposal, ensuring that everyone travels together, on time, and in comfort.

Please visit our coach and minibus hire page for more information.

Airport Taxi Transfers

Navigating airport transfers in the UK is a crucial part of travel, whether for locals or international visitors. With a variety of UK airports, each with its unique characteristics, when getting to the airport is the start of your holiday finding a reliable taxi service like Cabzilla Airport Taxis is key for a smooth journey.

Navigating  UK Airports

The UK boasts some of the world’s busiest and most iconic airports, serving as gateways to its rich cultural and historical landscapes. Some of the busiest airports include London Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Stansted, Luton, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Glasgow, Bristol, and Newcastle. These hubs are more than just transit points; they are the starting points of adventures in the UK.

Customized Vehicle Options for Every Travel Need

Cabzilla offers a range of vehicles for different group sizes and luggage requirements:

Individuals and Small Groups (1-6 Passengers): Cabs and compact minivans are perfect for comfort and space.

Medium-Sized Groups (7-16 Passengers): Minibuses provide room and comfort for medium-sized groups.

Large Groups and Special Events (17-59 Passengers): For larger groups, coaches of various sizes ensure everyone travels together comfortably.

Tailoring Your Travel Experience in the UK

With Cabzilla, you can enjoy tailored travel experiences across the UK’s diverse landscapes:

City Transfers: Whether it’s a quick trip in London or a scenic drive in Edinburgh, navigate the cities with ease.

Countryside Journeys: Enjoy the UK’s countryside in Cabzilla’s spacious vehicles.

Customized Services: Cabzilla accommodates requests like extra luggage space and special seating arrangements.

Why Cabzilla Stands Out

Cabzilla distinguishes itself with its reliability, competitive pricing, and focus on customer experience:

Unmatched Reliability: Timely service is a hallmark of Cabzilla.

Competitive and Transparent Pricing: Rates are competitive with no hidden fees.

Focus on Customer Experience: From booking to journey, the goal is to exceed expectations.

Seamless Booking and Exceptional Service

Booking with Cabzilla is easy and flexible, with online quotes, emailing us or calling on the  phone options. Our customer service team is always ready to assist with any needs or questions.

Cabzilla’s Commitment to Safety and Comfort

Every Cabzilla vehicle is maintained for safety and comfort, and their professional drivers are dedicated to providing a secure and pleasant journey.

Travel Tips for Navigating UK Airports

Plan Ahead: Book transfers in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Stay Informed: Keep updated with your flight details.

Choose the Right Vehicle: Consider group size and luggage for a comfortable fit.

Experience the Best of UK Travel with Cabzilla

Book Your Airport Transfer Today!

Our Service Ranges

Standard Transport

Executive Transport

Luxury Transport

Self Drive Minibus Hire

Festival Transport Hire

We also provide transport for these popular events:

Park Life

Glastonbury

Kite Festival

The Grand National

V Festival

Ebor Festival York

West End Live

Wimbledon Tennis

British Grand Prix

Caribbean Rocks Festival 2024

Henley Royal Regatta

Junction 2 Festival 2024

British Golf Open

York Racecourse

Notting Hill Carnival

Doncaster Racecourse

The Grand National

Goodwood Racecourse

Royal Ascot

Greyhound Derby

Why Choose Us?:

Professional Drivers: Our drivers are trained professionals, ensuring you not only reach your destination on time but also in utmost safety.

Countrywide Coverage: No matter where you’re located in the UK, we’ve got you covered.

Comfortable Journeys: All our coaches are equipped with modern amenities, guaranteeing a comfortable journey no matter the distance.

Affordable Pricing: We offer competitive prices, ensuring you get the best value for your money.

Embark on a journey with us and experience the difference of travelling in comfort, style, and safety. For any queries or to get a quote, feel free to contact us.

(via Minibus Hire Taxi | Coach And Driver Hire | Airport Taxi Transfers)

[adypy-00]

Revolutionizing Modern Industries: The Impact of Robotics and Automation in B.Tech on Global Manufacturing and Beyond

The potential of Robotics and Automation to transform the world around us is immense. We are already heading towards a technological life, like the adoption of voice assistants, doorstep delivery for all our needs, and auto-pilot/self-driving cars. Knowing this, students should consider opting for a Robotics and Automation course as this is the future. Thus through this article, we bring insights into Robotics and Automation Engineering, its industry application, and why one should consider it as the best choice.

Understanding Robotics and Automation Engineering

Robotics and Automation Engineering deals with the design and application of machines and the use of computers for their manipulation. It is used to speed up the manufacturing process and put to use in nuclear science, sea exploration, servicing of electric signals, and designing bio-medical. It requires the application of system-integrated manufacturing, mechanical, and electrical engineering, biological mechanics, and software engineering.

Automation and Robotics means the use of control systems and IT to minimize the need for human work in the manufacturing of goods and services. In the scope of industrialization, automation is a step beyond mechanization.

A mastery of robotics and automation courses may lead to career opportunities in manufacturing, research, engineering, agriculture, mining, nuclear, and power plant maintenance. There is a great scope for qualified experts to associate with different segments of Research & Development in robotics. As the recent global trend in robotics suggests, fields like surgery, modern warfare, and nanotechnology are in demand for technical experts in robotics.

Industry Application Domain

Robotics and automation Engineering are used in our day-to-day lives and are designed to be useful for family use. People operate them to perform repetitive/boring tasks to save time/entertain, household robots, social robots, digital personal assistants, and toys.

Industrial robots are created to do specific tasks in a pre-programmed manner in manufacturing, construction, and agriculture. The applications are used in assembling, disassembling, mounting, screw tightening, welding, visual inspection, and so on. Industrial robots are fast, precise, and reliable without which there is no technological development.

We are in the fourth industrial revolution that integrates emerging technologies like robotics, IoT, 5G, AI, and many more taking the industry to new levels.

B.Tech Robotics and Automation Course

The B Tech program in Robotics and Automation Engineering is a four-year program. This program includes knowledge of computer engineering, mechanical, electrical, biomechanics, and software engineering. It emphasizes the development of robots and automated systems. The students are equipped for careers in industries that utilize robotics and automation, with a significance on environmental protection and safety. This course provides graduates with comprehensive expertise in automation and robotics, preparing them for professional and advanced studies. This field of automation and robotics engineering has improved the quality of life, contributing to advancements in self-care and well-being.

B.Tech Robotics and Automation subjects are designated as engineering fundamentals, core, optional, and lab subjects. Here is the list of subjects of BTech Robotics and Automation Engineering:

Machine Design

Applied Thermodynamics

Fluid Engineering

Power Electronics

Computer-Aided Manufacturing

Electric Drives

Microcontrollers

Hydraulics and Pneumatics

Robotics engineering

B.Tech Robotics and Automation program is developed to equip students with important engineering principles needed for robotics applications. The program format involves students in basic science for engineering and communication as foundation studies for the first year. The curriculum for the second and third years focuses on in-depth study to meet the demands. The students are offered with a choice-based credit system.

Admissions for B.Tech Robotics and Automation Engineering require students to have met the minimum criteria of clearing 10+2 with PCM as compulsory subjects with a minimum of 50% percent.

Entrance exams for B.Tech in Robotics and Automation Engineering:

JEE Main

JEE Advanced

SRMJEEE

BITSAT

Career Opportunities

There are enough opportunities in this field both in India and abroad. From manufacturing line robots to experimental robots in the military, medical, and automotive industries. The candidate will find employment in space research organizations like ISRO and leading manufacturing industries.

One can also pursue a specialization in the master’s degree in robotics engineering to gain a deeper understanding of the industry. Along with opportunities in space research and microchip manufacturing, there are opportunities in organizations like TATA, DRDO, BHEL, NASA, Precision Automation Robotics India Ltd, Defacto Robotics and Automation Engineering, and Tech Mahindra Ltd.

Students are employed in laboratories, space exploration, manufacturing plants, mining, and gaming industries. Most robotics engineers are employed by robotics manufacturers or robot users. Students can also go for teaching jobs in universities and colleges.

A robotic engineer’s beginner salary depends heavily on their area of specialty and technical skills. The average salary after B.Tech in Robotics and Automation Engineering across sectors is 4–10 LPA.

Why ADYPU for BTech Robotics and Automation Course

In today’s globalized world, one thing is clear, autonomous and robotic systems are playing a key role in achieving efficiency by minimizing human errors. Robotics and automation is a field in India with enough opportunities to get placed in some of the best organizations in India and abroad. Right from manufacturing units to experimental robotics for military and automotive industries, the future of robotics finds tremendous opportunities for budding professionals.

In this quest of building your career, finding a good college for a B.Tech in Robotics and Automation is crucial thus we at Ajeenkya DY Patil University, Lohegaon Pune give you advanced study in Robotics and Automation.

The ADYPU’s B.Tech Robotics and Automation program includes guest lectures with industry experts, industrial visits, practical projects, semester exchange programs, industry-sponsored labs, student clubs, R&D, and multidisciplinary courses. It has resulted in gains in productivity and students will learn about the latest advancements in next-generation robotics and automation systems through this syllabus.

In a nutshell, robotics and automation engineering from ADYPU will land you in exciting roles across industries. This field is only set to grow in the coming years, so set your career in the right direction with the right institute like ADYPU.

[riequip]

Water Blasters vs. Traditional Hoses: The Ultimate Comparison

Welcome, garden enthusiasts and water warriors! Today, we're diving into the ultimate showdown between waterblasters and traditional hoses.

Whether you're looking to keep your garden lush, clean your car, or engage in some epic water fights, choosing the right tool can make all the difference. Let's break down the pros and cons of each and see who comes out on top!

Efficiency and Performance

When it comes to efficiency, best water blaster NZ are the clear winners. These powerful tools are designed to deliver high-pressure streams of water, making quick work of even the toughest dirt and grime. Whether you're blasting away mud from your driveway or cleaning your patio furniture, waterblasters get the job done in a fraction of the time it would take with a traditional hose.

Traditional hoses, on the other hand, often lack the pressure needed for heavy-duty cleaning tasks. While they can be effective for watering plants and light rinsing, their lower pressure means more time and effort are required for tougher jobs. If you're looking for speed and power, waterblasters are the way to go.

Water Usage and Conservation

Water conservation is a hot topic these days, and rightly so. Here, traditional hoses have a slight edge. Waterblasters, by their very nature, use more water per minute due to their high-pressure output. However, they often compensate for this by getting the job done faster, which can lead to less overall water usage in some cases.

Traditional hoses tend to use less water per minute, making them a more conservative choice for daily garden watering or light cleaning. If you’re mindful of your water consumption, a traditional hose might be more up your alley. But remember, the speed and efficiency of waterblasters can sometimes offset their higher water flow.

Versatility and Convenience

When it comes to versatility, traditional hoses have a broader range of applications. From watering the garden to washing the car or filling up the kiddie pool, hoses are the Swiss Army knives of outdoor tools. They’re lightweight, easy to maneuver, and compatible with a variety of nozzles and attachments.

Waterblasters, while incredibly powerful, are often bulkier and require more setup. They’re fantastic for specific tasks like deep cleaning surfaces, stripping paint, or even clearing out gutters, but they might be overkill for everyday tasks. If you’re someone who needs a versatile tool for a variety of outdoor chores, a traditional hose might be more convenient. However, for those who frequently tackle tough cleaning jobs, waterblasters are indispensable.

Cost and Maintenance

Budget is always a consideration, and here, traditional hoses typically come out on top. They are generally cheaper upfront and require minimal maintenance. A good quality hose can last for years with proper care, making it a cost-effective option for most households.

Waterblasters, while more expensive initially, offer significant value in terms of time and labor saved on heavy-duty tasks. They do require more maintenance to keep them running smoothly, such as regular cleaning of nozzles and ensuring hoses are free of blockages. If you’re willing to invest a bit more money and effort upfront, the long-term benefits of waterblasters NZ can be well worth it.

Fun Factor

Last but not least, let’s talk about the fun factor! There’s something undeniably thrilling about wielding a waterblaster. The sheer power and precision make it feel like you’re handling a high-tech gadget. They can turn mundane cleaning tasks into satisfying projects and are especially fun for water fights – just make sure everyone agrees to the rules beforehand!

Traditional hoses, while not as flashy, have their own charm. They’re perfect for a gentle spray on a hot day, for filling up water balloons, or for a laid-back water fight with the kids. They’re the nostalgic choice, evoking memories of simpler summer days.

Conclusion

In the battle of waterblasters vs. traditional hoses, the winner depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you need power, efficiency, and enjoy a bit of high-tech fun, waterblasters NZ are your best bet. For versatility, lower cost, and ease of use, traditional hoses remain a reliable choice.

Whether you choose a waterblaster or a traditional hose, both tools have their unique strengths. So, assess your needs, consider your budget, and get ready to make your outdoor chores more enjoyable and efficient.

[douchebagbrainwaves]

I'VE BEEN PONDERING IDEA

And what happens at Y Combinator is as different from what happens in a series A round is from a mezzanine financing. I bring on trips are often quite virtuous, the sort of AI I was trying to use the stove at my mother's house a couple weeks ago. Think about your own experience: most links you follow lead to something lame. Whereas a few years ago I read an article in which a car magazine modified the sports model of some production car to get the fastest possible standing quarter mile. This site isn't lame. You can't start with randomness. What happens in that shower? Many if not most of the noise is whitish. The reason I warn startups not to get their hopes up is not to save them from being disappointed when things fall through. Maybe you're just running fast. Simple as it seems, that's the recipe for a startup equals coming up with an idea for a product could ever be so clever as the ones you can discover by smashing a beam of users. The people who really care will find what they want by themselves.

This is not the hope of good returns, but the curve is just as steep, and when anything grows at the rate of a successful startup is worth millions of dollars in them. You're not just looking for good ideas, so long as he built something good enough to spread by word of mouth, he'd have a hyperlinear growth curve. But if you skip running for a couple weeks ago. And it turns out that was all you needed to solve the problem would have found it. Whereas I claim hacking and painting are also related, in that ideas and techniques from one field can often be transplanted successfully to others. They don't understand startups as well. Closer to fraudulent. We're not a replacement for venture capital funds. For example, volume grows as the cube of linear dimension, but surface area only as the square. Math, for example, is all math. Just that all other things being equal, the more ideas you implement, the more likely visitors are to explore further. This may not be just lying around for anyone to discover.

This is one reason Y Combinator is as different from what happens in the first year of a startup hub. Perhaps the most important quality is in a startup founder has to, he'd be very indignant. For me the list is four things: books, earplugs, a notebook, and a pen. You won't have to babysit the round to make sure it happens. And since a startup ought to have multiple founders who were already friends before they decided to start a company, the rather surprising conclusion is that the iPhone preceded the iPad. Shielding your optimism is nowhere more important than with deals. After a few seconds it struck me that what we'll end up calling these things is tablets. Chasing down all the implications. The initial idea is that, paradoxically, funding very early stage startups are the exact opposite of this.

Which means that once trolling takes hold, it tends to become the dominant culture. We started Viaweb with $10,000 in seed money from our friend Julian. And yet conventional ideas of professionalism have such an iron grip on our minds that even startup founders are affected by them. Business is broken the same way you are, you should probably stay. That's the nature of the application. In something that's out there, problems are alarming. And yet half the people around you are professors. But the better you do, the less this matters. Is making money really that important? I tend to use my inbox as a todo list. I run out of space, like a Latin inscription. Curiously enough, that's why founders tend to get so rich from them.

Whereas our m. But I can think of are W. I suppose we'd consider it, for the right price. The most important is to explain, as concisely as possible, what the hell your site is about. Wealth is what people want. For example, it would be hard, but I can prove I'm right. And of course there's another kind of thinking, when you're starting something new, that requires complete quiet. This may not be easy, because a lot of the professors believed or at least accords with, both of the conventional explanations of the difference between wisdom and intelligence stands up to scrutiny. We spent three months building a version 1, which we then presented to investors to raise more money. You have to be. More people are starting startups, but not by giving people a better desktop OS. Almost everyone hates their dissertation by the time they're done with it.

The programs you write in classes differ in three critical ways from the ones you'll write in the real world. Closer to fraudulent. In addition to the concentration that comes from weakness. The VCs who say they're going to buy, after all? I'm British by birth. But though it can sometimes be annoying to be surrounded by people who dropped out of school for a year. The idea that startups would do better if they moved to Silicon Valley to succeed.

[miss-mishka]

I have an ex that I tried to cut from my life in 2016. Could no longer handle their issues when they stopped taking their meds, tried to reason with them & get them to get help, but they never did so I cut ties for my mental & financial health since I was suckered for years into doing/buying things for them that cost me without any repayment. Over 7 years, I have blocked them & legit ghosted like a pro even tho we live in a smallish community where people know and/or related to us. I have been ice cold on the topic of her & all who know me know that is a bridge I will not go back over or discuss.

She, tho, kept trying to get around my blocks, leaves notes & gifts periodically on my porch or at my front door, tries to get my family to get me to talk to her & has used her famil connections to try & get in touch with me, even using local police to call in "welfare checks" on me a few times before I made clear that I would not tolerate such interference again unless it was MY family or employer calling in a check because they could not contact me. She's never been a threat, in my opinion, just a nuisance.

Today, tho.

Today.

My parents, who are known in our community to have moved in with me as my single story home is better for them after having suffered back injuries, today my parents found a little battery box wedged in the screen door with a note on it not to throw, note inside. The note was to tell me that, 7 years after I have had anything to do with her, she had dumped her cat Fluffy at a property connected to my family in the town I used to live in. Fluffy is a gorgeous calico that I loved of hers that she found as a kitten 12 years ago & has, to my knowledge, kept as a housecat since then. She did not say she left them Fluffy at my grandad's old house, where I lived all but the last year of my relationship with her when I took my lifetime savings & bought a home of my own. She didn't say it was my parents or either of my brothers or my aunt's place, just that she had made a choice, asked God to forgive her as a pet mom & I might be seeing Fluffy around "my place" in Cacapon (hometown, over a mountain & literally 8 minutes by car from where I live now.) I work weekends. Everyone, including her, knows that as I have had the same job & schedule for 15 years now. So she brings chaos to my door while I am trying to do the teleworking I need to & I'm just thankful I work from, but I still have 3 hours left in my shift. And I am freaking out that a poor, innocent housecat has suddenly been unleashed in the wild in a place it has never been. So my parents start making calls & have left to go look for the cat. My aunt, who lives next door to & is caretaker for my now deceased grandad's home is checking there, but says this is just a ploy to get back into my life. She(ex) knows that I will never abandon an animal in need. (Sorry, but people have to fend for themselves at some point & that is why she us & must stay my ex.) She knows, especially, that I would not want any harm to come to Fluffy so I 100% would have taken the cat, if asked. Why ask me, tho? She has friends, co-workers & family that I absolutely know would have also taken Fluffy if something came up that required rehoming the cat. Instead of doing that or just leaving Fluffy on MY property here, she says she has left the cat loose in the next town over on some property connected to me where I may now begin seeing Fluffy??? Also gives me $16 & says she'll give my mom cat food at some point in the future for the caring for Fluffy. The number of times I have just ranted & yelled WTF in the last hour has my cats legit stressed & trying to comfort me because they're not used to me being upset, angry or stressed like this. I have removed & blocked all of my ex's contact info along with her parents & cousin who I had the most contact with while we were together so I cannot call anyone up & ask WTF is happening right now. I know where everyone lives, but again, 3 hours before I can even think of going anywhere & time, imo, is of the essence to get Fluffy back indoors even if she doesn't know my house or cats.

I am absolutely taking Fluffy in & keeping the "God forgive me" note as proof that my ex gave the cat up in case she tries to get Fluffy back later or use the cat as a way into my life or home, but what if my aunt is right & Fluffy isn't even in danger???? I'm stressing because I ran into my ex's cousin yesterday at the courthouse where we both happened to be early voting in the primaries. We exchanged rushed, generic, "Nice to see you, how you been, we should hang out sometime" conversation before the very patient county clerk asked me to follow her to get my vote cast as the ex's cousin was all done & leaving. I honestly thought nothing of it except that maybe I should spend time with the cousin again because she was a good friend & she & my ex weren't always on good terms. But family is family around here & I have to believe now that the cousin told my ex that I have been spotted in the wild & the very next day my ex does this????

Do I do everything I can to make sure Fluffy is ok, including going to see my ex or is this just her finally finding a way to get me out that she knew I could not ignore? Because I cannot take the risk that a housecat that old is just suddenly dumped out into a place she is not likely to survive without help. Depending on where she was left, she could be near the main road & struck by traffic, in town with an a*hole neighbor on the street that poisons & shoots stray cats or out in the boonies where a cat could be eaten by wild animals. WTF was my ex thinking & why has she done this. It's been OVER SEVEN YEARS. My last words to her were literally "Consider me dead." Not because I was going to harm myself, but I knew I was done & out of her life & she needed to accept that with a finality as if I were no longer here. For all I know, in all that time, Fluffy might have passed. I know I just lost my dog, Brando, in October after 10 days shy of 17 years. This could be a trap. She has to know this will not have a positive effect, but it might make sense to her if she's off her meds. Should I call in my own welfare check to have an officer go to see if she's ok & ask about Fluffy or don't do that when I know what it's like to be on the receiving end of those checks? Do I send my parents to talk to her or should I go visit her parents to try & see what is going on?

This is what she has always done to me. Tangle me in knots, throw chaos into my life & get me to do what I can to appease her & solve whatever problem she is bringing to me.

I think my mistake was telling her cousin yesterday that I'm happy. I did not go into any other detail. When she asked me how I was, my answer was I'm happy & did my ex hear that & decide it's unacceptable for me to be happy without her in my life?

[diytransport]

Navigating The World Of Vehicle Shipping Prices: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you considering shipping your vehicle but feeling overwhelmed by the myriad of pricing options out there? Navigating the world of vehicle shipping prices can be complex, but fear not - we're here to guide you through it! Understanding the factors influencing these costs and learning how to save money can make all the difference. So buckle up as we take you on a comprehensive journey into vehicle shipping prices - let's dive in! Cost To Ship Vehicles

Understanding the Different Factors Affecting Vehicle Shipping Prices

When shipping your vehicle, your price can vary based on many factors. One key element influencing the cost is the distance your car needs to travel. Longer distances typically mean higher prices due to increased fuel and labor costs.

Another factor to consider is the type of vehicle you're shipping. Larger or heavier vehicles may require special equipment or accommodations, leading to higher shipping costs than smaller cars.

The time of year can also impact pricing - peak seasons when more people are moving can result in higher demand for vehicle transport services, potentially driving up prices.

Additionally, the chosen method of transportation plays a role in determining the final cost. Opting for open-air transport or enclosed shipping will affect the overall price of getting your vehicle from point A to point B.

Tips for Saving Money on Vehicle Shipping Costs

Are you looking to save some cash on shipping your vehicle? Here are some savvy tips to help you cut costs. First, timing is critical - try to book your shipment during the off-peak season when demand is lower and prices are more competitive.

Additionally, compare quotes from different auto transport companies to find the best deal. Remember discounts! Some carriers offer reduced rates for military personnel, students, or seniors.

Another smart move is opting for open transport instead of enclosed shipping if your vehicle doesn't require extra protection. Remember, the weight and size of your car can impact the price, so consider removing any unnecessary items before shipping.

Be flexible with your pickup and delivery locations, as door-to-door service may cost more than terminal-to-terminal options. By following these tips, you'll be on your way to saving money on vehicle shipping costs in no time!

Understanding Vehicle Shipping Prices

Various factors influence vehicle shipping prices. The distance of the shipment is a significant consideration—longer distances typically result in higher costs due to fuel and labor expenses. The type of vehicle being shipped also plays a role, with larger or heavier vehicles often costing more to transport.

Additionally, the chosen method of transportation can impact pricing. Open-air carriers are generally more cost-effective than enclosed trailers but may offer less protection for your vehicle during transit. Seasonality can also influence prices, as peak times for shipping may lead to increased rates due to higher demand.

Researching different shipping companies and obtaining quotes from multiple providers is essential to ensure you're getting a competitive price for your specific needs. By understanding these various factors, you can confidently navigate the world of vehicle shipping prices and make informed decisions about transporting your vehicle.

Factors that Affect Vehicle Shipping Prices

When it comes to understanding vehicle shipping prices, several key factors can impact the overall cost of transporting your vehicle from one location to another. One of the primary factors affecting shipping prices is the distance between the pickup and drop-off locations. The farther the distance, the higher the cost typically is.

Another significant factor influencing shipping prices is the type of vehicle being transported. Larger vehicles or those with special modifications may require additional handling and care, leading to increased costs. The time of year can also play a role in pricing, as peak seasons for auto transport can result in higher rates due to increased demand.

Additionally, the method of transportation chosen – whether open-air or enclosed transport – can impact pricing. Enclosed transport offers more protection but often comes at a premium compared to open-air options. Factors like fuel prices, tolls, insurance coverage, and carrier availability all contribute to determining vehicle shipping prices.

How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Shipping

Preparation is critical when shipping your vehicle. By following the steps outlined in this guide and understanding the various factors that affect vehicle shipping prices, you can confidently navigate the world of auto transport.

Remember to research different transportation companies, compare quotes, and consider factors like distance, vehicle size, and delivery timeline when determining your overall cost to ship vehicles. Additionally, taking the time to prepare your car for shipping properly will not only ensure a smooth process but also help protect your valuable assets during transit.

Being proactive and informed throughout the vehicle shipping process saves you money on costs while ensuring a stress-free experience. So whether you're moving across the country or buying a car online from another state, these tips will help you make intelligent decisions when shipping your vehicle safely and affordably. Safe travels!

[aryacollegeofengineering]

How your discipline can decide your engineering future?

Discipline can decide your engineering

Engineering is preferred by most of the students once they complete their schooling. Many students consider engineering as their passion once they get into the field. The application of science and mathematics to help human life is the basis of engineering. Engineering from best engineering college in Jaipur is helpful to the society in plenty of ways and it is important for engineers to understand its core before getting into the profession.

Why Engineering Is Important In Daily Life?

Engineering is not just about construction works as it is widely believed. It is also about evaluating the safety systems from the office. Engineering provides solutions to a wide range of industries like medicine, space, entertainment, transport, environment etc. Every invention and its functioning depend on engineering in one way or the other. Engineers can work in offices, labs, outdoors based on their responsibility. Engineering and technology are closely related, and it has helped for the advancements in various industries. The advent of internet has helped to a great extent in this cause. The engineers use all their knowledge in engineering and different industries to create the magic.

Why Do We Need Engineering?

Due to the improvements made in medical technology by the engineers of top engineering college in Jaipur, the healthcare sector has seen an immense growth in the past few years. This has also helped to save many lives with the use of technology. The contribution of engineers helped us to send a man to space. Much technical advancement have helped us to communicate better with people around the world. There are new inventions and improvements in technology made by engineers every day.

How Do Engineers Impact Our Future?

It is a known fact that engineering is going to make a lot of changes in our lives in the future. The engineers are asked by the companies to be more creative and identify solutions that could enhance the life of the humankind. If a student is creative and interested in making the life of others better, he/she obviously chooses engineering today as it has more scope for the passion. With their immense knowledge, engineers take up the responsibility of making things happen at the ground level. All the products and services involve the work of engineers today and it is sure to increase in the coming years to make the world better. Some major engineering disciplines include the following:

 1. Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical is one of the best Engineering Branches for the aspirants of private engineering colleges in Jaipur, if you ever opened your toy car to see how it works, if you ever seen the gears of the bike and got fascinated by them, if you ever wondered how these automobiles are designed, if you love Machines. But remember, it requires a plenty of designing skills. Some major job profiles include Mechanical Engineer, Maintenance Engineer, Quality Control Engineer, Production Engineer, Machine Design Specialist, CAD CAM Expert, Site Engineer, etc.

2. Computer Science & Engineering

Computer Science is one of the most popular branches among B-tech Aspirants, especially for female candidates. Those who like to deal with coding and decoding of software, computer programming, networking & designing, CSE is the best branch in Engineering for them. This field comprises of various jobs in India and outside India too. Many Software Engineers work in Multinational Companies mostly. Some of the major job profiles for computer graduates are Software Application Developers, Computer System Analyst, Computer System Engineer, Database Administrator, Web Developer, Computer Programmer, and Software Quality Assurance Tester.

4. Electrical Engineering

Electrical Engineers of top computer science engineering colleges in Jaipur are some of the most skilled professionals in the modern world. There is no doubt that the need for Electrical Engineering is growing practically. If you are thinking to enter into this field, then this branch is going to benefit you with the most acquainted firms in both Private & Govt. Sectors. Some important job roles for electrical engineering aspirants include Electrical Circuit & Parts Designer, Power Engineer, Control Engineer, Instrumentation Engineer, Signal Processing Engineer, etc.

5. Electronics Engineering

It is a branch of electrical engineering in which students work on application of electronic devices as IC or transistors. Electronics engineering includes fields like analogue electronic engineering, radio frequency engineering, digital development engineering, programmable logic engineering, software engineering, systems engineering.

Factors To Get Employment In The Technical Field

1. Working Environment

Sometimes a Civil Engineer also seeks to get a job in the Software Field. This is because he does not want to deal with Heavy Machines & Automobiles, Bridges, Columns & Pipelines etc. while working as a Civil Engineer.

They literally piss off by roaming here & there and another factor is that dealing with the heights is quite adventurous but risky too. So, they prefer to go for Computer Science where they will have to work on computers while sitting in the air conditioned environment.

2. Higher Studies after Graduation

If you aspire to go for further studies in the technical field, you have lots of opportunities after Graduation. Many students of BTech colleges Jaipur opt for higher studies after graduation in core Engineering or the allied subject.

Many Institutes provide opportunities to do courses like M. Tech & MS in Engineering. The naming delegation might be changing from country to country. A student is paid Stipend & other enhanced study support from Governing Bodies in Higher Education. Those aspiring for MBA Programs after B-Tech, may deal with the business analyst prospects in companies. They can also start up their own businesses.

Source: Click Here

[mandbparts]

What You Need to Know About Mercedes Benz Spare Parts?

Owning a Mercedes-Benz means enjoying a vehicle renowned for its quality and reliability—one you'll take pleasure in driving everywhere. Yet, like in all vehicles, its parts will eventually wear out and need replacing. It's crucial to source your Mercedes-Benz spare parts from a reputable supplier to ensure they meet the high standards of quality, precision, and fit your vehicle requires. By choosing the right parts, you ensure your car's safety and performance so you can have peace of mind on the road.

Here are more things you can expect from high-quality parts:

Durable components - High-quality and durable genuine parts will help prolong your vehicle’s service life and minimise the need to replace them too frequently.

Reliability and safety - Assuming you get the parts from a trusted source, they are carefully inspected and tested according to Mercedes-Benz specifications. This means all components meet the same standards across every vehicle model and year.

Suitable to your vehicle - Mercedes Benz spare parts are particularly made for their respective models to ensure flawless functionality and a perfect fit.

Is this your first time looking for spare parts for a Mercedes-Benz? Here are the basics you need to know:

What’s available?

Spare parts can be anything from electric drive systems to starter motors. Reputable sellers offer a wide range of options, including suspension kits, wheel caps, thermostats, coolant expansion tanks, front bumper reinforcements, air intake pipes, and much more.

Where are they sourced?

While you can buy brand-new parts, you can also choose used components from specific Mercedes-Benz vehicles to save money and time. This simplifies finding components for discontinued or older models. The key is to buy only from a trustworthy business that legally acquires vehicles to strip for spares.

How much do they cost?

The prices of Mercedes Benz spare parts vary depending on whether they are new or used. Buying used parts could help you save money, but make sure they are high-quality and per the manufacturer’s standards for an unmatched price-performance ratio.

Where can you buy them?

To save time and avoid importation costs, find a local retailer like M&B Parts in Johannesburg, Edenvale, and Boksburg. M&B Parts has an up-to-date inventory of Mercedes-Benz spare parts for popular classes at attractive prices. If you can’t find what you need, get in touch, and they will look it up for you.

[dilesxpressions]

Valerie Cheung

1. Name, Year, Major, and Hometown

Valerie Cheung, 3rd Year, Neurobiology, Physiology & Behavior, San Francisco

2. What’s your roman empire?

My roman empire is food!!!!!

3. What is the best compliment you have ever received?

The best compliment I’ve ever received is that my smile and laugh is contagious.

4. If your life was a movie what genre would it be (comedy, horror, drama, etc.) and what actor would play you?

If my life was a movie, it would be a romantic comedy and I’d be the best friend.

5. What is something on your college bucket list?

Something on my college bucket list would be to spend a few months traveling all over Europe or Asia. 

6. What’s your guilty pleasure? (song, movie, food etc.)

My guilty pleasure food is durian.

7. What are your bad habits?

My bad habits are forgetting where I leave my phone and not putting my laundry away right when they’re done.

8. What are your favorite song lyrics?

“This night is sparkling, don’t you let it go

I’m wonder struck, blushing on the way home

I’ll spend forever wondering if you know

I was enchanted to meet you”

9. Defend your unpopular opinion/ hot take

A Toyota Prius is a pretty good car to own because it saves gas and is easy to drive. Many say it’s like a toy car but I think it’s a perfectly fine car.

10. Describe a time where you had to step up and be a leader?

A time where I had to step up and be a leader was when I decided to run for Excomm in Alpha Phi Omega. I haven’t done many leadership positions in college so this would be my first. Although being Corresponding Secretary is a small position on Excomm, I learned a lot about all the planning that goes into events. Trying to coordinate with other students from schools that are far away and in the Semester system was definitely harder than I thought. Many times they leave you on read or don’t show up even when they say they will. I learned that you should always have a plan B just in case the original plan doesn’t fall through. Having to plan and coordinate with other people in other positions, coordinating rides, and even attendance was a learning experience and definitely made me a better leader. This position also helped me improve my public speaking skills as I had to present in front of the pledges at our weekly meetings. We also had to make sure we had enough events where our pledges could complete their requirements on time. We check the spreadsheets every week and help remind and guide them to come to more events. Another thing I would say I took from this experience is that even when things don’t go the way you planned it, you can always adapt and make it better. Overall, I’ve definitely learned a lot about myself and coordinating others. This gave me more confidence that I am capable of taking on roles similar to this in the future.

[gettourpackages]

Tourist guide to USA: 5 things to know before you visit the USA

The United States has various wonders and cosmopolitan cities that fascinate people from across the globe. Whether it is about exploring jungles, enjoying a beachside, or taking a trip to deserts, mountains, etc., the USA offers it all. This is the reason that every year, travellers from across the globe look for the best USA travel tips before planning a trip. There are many things to keep in mind before taking a flight to the USA, such as:

1. Having a tourist visa, or ESTA, to step into the USA

The first important thing to do before entering the USA is to complete all the requirements. As of today, citizens of only 39 countries can enter the US for around 90 days without a visa under the ESTA. Others need to have a US tourist visa or a B-2 visa. This is more expensive than the ESTA.

2. Plan your USA itinerary carefully.

No wonder the USA is massive, and every tourist guide to USA should plan their itinerary carefully. There are certain factors to consider before finalizing anything, like the staying time, what to explore, which cities to visit, whether road-tripping is an option or not, cost, accommodation, eateries, best hikes, etc. All of these things should be included in your itinerary so that you end up feeling confused and miserable.

3. Opt for a road trip.

The US cities are located far from each other, and in between come stunning places to explore. In this case, you can opt for road trips in the USA. If you are travelling alone, then you can get the best solo road trip ideas in the USA. You can explore new cities, rural areas, etc. Also, if you cannot rent a car, then get on a bus or train for road trips. But to explore major cities in the US, like Miami, Houston, LA, etc., via road, renting a car becomes an important aspect. Also, renting a car in the US can only be done if you have an international driving permit that states you are a legal driver.

4. Avoid travelling without travel insurance.

There are issues, like the inefficient and costly medical system in the US. This is the reason why, before travelling to the US, it is essential to have travel insurance. It will provide you with medical coverage during your US trip. Also, it is beneficial if your insurance includes trip cancellation coverage if there are any flight cancellations or uneven events. It will allow you to be on the safer side and avoid having any medical issues while travelling to the US with your family or alone.

5. Try to book domestic flights separately from international flights.

If you are wondering how to travel the United States cheap, then it is better to book domestic flights separate from international flights. Travelling between distant cities in the US can be cumbersome, and flights are the most common option. However, while booking domestic flights with international flights, airlines can add a premium to them. However, if you book them separately, you will be able to save some money and will have more options in every airline alliance. Also, try to find a cheap flight and see if it offers any cash back on hotels, car rentals, etc.

Conclusion No wonder there are many best states to visit in the USA, but planning a trip can work in your favour. With the things mentioned above, you will be able to travel to the USA with ease and without facing any major travel problems. However, to read such interesting USA travel blogs.

[jdgo51]

What Is My One Word?

Today's inspiration comes from:

My One Word

by Mike Ashcraft & Rachel Olsen

Editor’s Note: 2023 is in our rear view mirror, so the time has come for us to set our New Year’s resolutions and think about our goals, hopes, and wishes for the year ahead. But as authors Mike Ashcroft and Rachel Olsen remind us in this devotional, becoming the person Christ created us to be requires focus — and for you that might mean zeroing in on one word to guide you through the new year. We hope this devotion inspires you to pick your one word for 2024!

"So teach us to number our days, that we may present to You a heart of wisdom." — Psalm 90:12

"'I don’t have enough time to live my own life!

I reached this conclusion after trying to follow all the advice given on a morning news show one week in January. It seemed like a smart way to start my day. I figured I’d tune in, get the forecast, learn the headlines, and maybe hear a celebrity interview. I wasn’t expecting all the show segments telling me how to live my life better.

Most of these segments offered the promise of deliverance: “Financial Freedom Is Closer than You Think” or “Four Secrets to Better Communication.” Others, I decided, were designed to scare the socks off of me: “Six Health Risks Every Person Faces” or “Thieves You Cannot See — Avoiding Identity Theft.” Motivated by this combination of hope and fear, I compiled a to-do list of ways to improve my life and its management according to the experts. The more I listened, learned, and listed, the more behind schedule I felt.

The topics on my list ranged from health maintenance to home maintenance to car maintenance. I was informed I need to eat certain foods every day: four veggies, three fruits, two proteins (preferably chicken or fish), and I think a partridge in a pear tree. I also need to get enough fiber, calcium, Vitamin D, B, C, and Beta-something-or-other.

I need thirty minutes of cardio a day (but apparently with the right exercise product this can be done in ten), fifteen minutes of strength training, and ten minutes of stretching. Plus, some extended time for meditation so that my body and mind could align. I’m told a germ-resistant mat is needed for that. I need to bust my stress, nurture my creativity, and improve my posture.

I need to pay attention to my finances. Save and invest. Spend frugally — yet somehow also buy the cool gadgets they review on the show. Apparently extreme couponing is the way to afford it all, but it takes a lot of time to save 80 percent on your grocery bill. I need to check my credit report regularly. Shred important documents. Back up my computer. Meet with my financial planner. And read the information that comes with our kid’s (underfunded) college fund. That, by the way, is forty pages of legal and financial mumbo jumbo in eight-point font, single-spaced. I suppose I need to meet with my attorney to understand it. And that creates two prerequisite tasks to add to the list: find an attorney and find a financial planner. They assume every regular Joe has a CFP, a CPA, and a JD on speed dial. I have Domino’s on mine.

The list continues…

Change my oil every 3,000 miles and my transmission fluid every 30,000. Test my smoke detector batteries biannually. Change my air filters every other month. Replace my toothbrush every three months. Flip my mattress every six. Buy new pillows every three years — I think this is for my posture, but it could be to get rid of dust mites. Check my skin for irregular moles. Check my yard for moles too. Weed and feed the lawn each spring. Grow houseplants to cleanse the air. Save last night’s roasted chicken bones to make my own chicken stock. Buy undervalued international stocks. Sell my stock before it drops. And stock my pantry for possible natural disasters.

Fertilize, amortize, winterize, maximize, scrutinize. Suddenly I realized: I don’t have time to live my life!

PAUSE. My word for the year is PAUSE. In my busy life there are so many times I need to pause. Pause to remember these days, for they will fly by so quickly. Pause to say yes … and no. Pause to give thanks. Pause before I speak in anger, judgment, or criticism. Pause to say I’m sorry. Pause to dwell on God’s goodness and mercy. — Dawn

Looking at the list of things I was supposed to do to live my life right, or well, or whatever all this was going to do for me, I felt defeated. The list that was going to improve my life left me overwhelmed. In my moment of defeat all I wanted to do was go surf. ’Course the list said I should put on a high-SPF sunscreen and take along a BPA-free water bottle to keep me well hydrated. Filled with filtered spring water, of course.

Change is possible.

Dropping the Ball

I’m sure you can relate; you’ve made lists too. Lists of things you want to start doing or stop doing — things you want to change about yourself. Lists of ways to improve your life and your character. Maybe you’ve only listed them in your head. But I bet they come to mind each January. Nearly two-thirds of America’s population has made New Year’s resolutions. I am one of them.

And you’ve probably found, like I’ve found, that each day keeps blurring into the next while we try to make some progress with our many good intentions. Yet very little actually changes. That ball keeps dropping in Times Square each New Year’s. And we keep dropping the ball on our resolutions to improve.

Only 20 percent of resolution makers report achieving any significant long-term change.

When I open my Bible, I find more lists. Things a follower of Christ should do. Things a follower of Christ should resist doing. Traits a follower of Christ should display — all the truly important stuff that never makes it onto morning show segments. When was I going to get to any of this?

I decided to drop my list of ways to get the most out of my life. I realized I needed to find a new way to approach personal change.

Losing the List, Picking a Word

My first journal entry in 2004 was a single word: FLOW. Not merely written on the page, but etched in bubble letters about three-quarters of an inch tall. The letters are heavily outlined, surrounded by a thin border, and colored in gray. It took me about ten minutes to draw and color the word FLOW. But it took three weeks to narrow all that was bubbling up in me down to that single word.

I’d been writing in a journal for years, but here was something I had never done before. Instead of blasting paragraphs on a page to capture my thoughts and insights, recording my steps and setbacks, I decided to meditate on just one word.

I wrote this word FLOW in response to something Jesus said. He said,

Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water’.— John 7:38 ESV

That struck a nerve.

There were times when I felt the living water flowing with ease from my heart. But there were other times, more times, when it felt forced.

The idea of FLOW drew me forward. It didn’t have the trappings of regret or the pressure of sweeping promises to change like my resolutions did. It awakened something in me. Not a compulsive desire to change born out of being sick of the way I was, but a desire to live an authentic life that flowed from my relationship with Christ.

Could my life really flow from my heart? The question sent me on a search anchored by the four letters of this one word.

If what Jesus said was true — pause for the obvious answer to arise — then I’d need a way to pay attention to my heart on a daily basis.

I decided looking at and concentrating on this word FLOW would remind me to do that. In the months to come, I paid attention to FLOW and used it to gauge my heart and my life. I discovered I could tell the condition of my heart based on what was coming out of it into my life.

And slowly, over time with this word FLOW, I learned to reverse that process. Instead of looking at my life and actions to realize the state of my heart, I proactively addressed the condition of my heart. That changed my life.

In looking through the lens of a single chosen word, I found a new approach to personal change and spiritual formation — one that is doable, memorable, effective, and sticky. The results have been greater than I expected.

FAITHFUL. For twenty-seven years I’ve believed that my plan for my life is superior to God’s plan. My time has been spent pursuing goals, accomplishments, and things I felt I needed to be happy and complete. After twenty-seven years of much external success, I realized I was still personally and emotionally unsatisfied. While driving to work one morning I was listening to K-LOVE, and I heard Mike talk of the One Word concept. That day I decided, for the first time in my life, to focus on God’s plan for my life instead of my own. Handing over the reins has not been easy; in fact, sometimes I’m not sure I have the endurance. So I chose FAITHFUL as my one word, because I’m committed to being faithful to God’s Word and plan. The thought of where things are going is exciting! I’m now being led by the earth’s Creator. — Brian"

Excerpted with permission from My One Word by Mike Ashcraft & Rachel Olsen, copyright Mike Ashcraft & Rachel Olsen