#repairing it will not remove those features

[raindduks]

my macbook has been Struggling for the past couple of years and i cant decide if i should upgrade or repair it

[mostlysignssomeportents]

How lock-in hurts design

Berliners: Otherland has added a second date (Jan 28) for my book-talk after the first one sold out - book now!

If you've ever read about design, you've probably encountered the idea of "paving the desire path." A "desire path" is an erosion path created by people departing from the official walkway and taking their own route. The story goes that smart campus planners don't fight the desire paths laid down by students; they pave them, formalizing the route that their constituents have voted for with their feet.

Desire paths aren't always great (Wikipedia notes that "desire paths sometimes cut through sensitive habitats and exclusion zones, threatening wildlife and park security"), but in the context of design, a desire path is a way that users communicate with designers, creating a feedback loop between those two groups. The designers make a product, the users use it in ways that surprise the designer, and the designer integrates all that into a new revision of the product.

This method is widely heralded as a means of "co-innovating" between users and companies. Designers who practice the method are lauded for their humility, their willingness to learn from their users. Tech history is strewn with examples of successful paved desire-paths.

Take John Deere. While today the company is notorious for its war on its customers (via its opposition to right to repair), Deere was once a leader in co-innovation, dispatching roving field engineers to visit farms and learn how farmers had modified their tractors. The best of these modifications would then be worked into the next round of tractor designs, in a virtuous cycle:

https://securityledger.com/2019/03/opinion-my-grandfathers-john-deere-would-support-our-right-to-repair/

But this pattern is even more pronounced in the digital world, because it's much easier to update a digital service than it is to update all the tractors in the field, especially if that service is cloud-based, meaning you can modify the back-end everyone is instantly updated. The most celebrated example of this co-creation is Twitter, whose users created a host of its core features.

Retweets, for example, were a user creation. Users who saw something they liked on the service would type "RT" and paste the text and the link into a new tweet composition window. Same for quote-tweets: users copied the URL for a tweet and pasted it in below their own commentary. Twitter designers observed this user innovation and formalized it, turning it into part of Twitter's core feature-set.

Companies are obsessed with discovering digital desire paths. They pay fortunes for analytics software to produce maps of how their users interact with their services, run focus groups, even embed sneaky screen-recording software into their web-pages:

https://www.wired.com/story/the-dark-side-of-replay-sessions-that-record-your-every-move-online/

This relentless surveillance of users is pursued in the name of making things better for them: let us spy on you and we'll figure out where your pain-points and friction are coming from, and remove those. We all win!

But this impulse is a world apart from the humility and respect implied by co-innovation. The constant, nonconsensual observation of users has more to do with controlling users than learning from them.

That is, after all, the ethos of modern technology: the more control a company can exert over its users ,the more value it can transfer from those users to its shareholders. That's the key to enshittification, the ubiquitous platform decay that has degraded virtually all the technology we use, making it worse every day:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/02/19/twiddler/

When you are seeking to control users, the desire paths they create are all too frequently a means to wrestling control back from you. Take advertising: every time a service makes its ads more obnoxious and invasive, it creates an incentive for its users to search for "how do I install an ad-blocker":

https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2019/07/adblocking-how-about-nah

More than half of all web-users have installed ad-blockers. It's the largest consumer boycott in human history:

https://doc.searls.com/2023/11/11/how-is-the-worlds-biggest-boycott-doing/

But zero app users have installed ad-blockers, because reverse-engineering an app requires that you bypass its encryption, triggering liability under Section 1201 of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act. This law provides for a $500,000 fine and a 5-year prison sentence for "circumvention" of access controls:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/01/12/youre-holding-it-wrong/#if-dishwashers-were-iphones

Beyond that, modifying an app creates liability under copyright, trademark, patent, trade secrets, noncompete, nondisclosure and so on. It's what Jay Freeman calls "felony contempt of business model":

https://locusmag.com/2020/09/cory-doctorow-ip/

This is why services are so horny to drive you to install their app rather using their websites: they are trying to get you to do something that, given your druthers, you would prefer not to do. They want to force you to exit through the gift shop, you want to carve a desire path straight to the parking lot. Apps let them mobilize the law to literally criminalize those desire paths.

An app is just a web-page wrapped in enough IP to make it a felony to block ads in it (or do anything else that wrestles value back from a company). Apps are web-pages where everything not forbidden is mandatory.

Seen in this light, an app is a way to wage war on desire paths, to abandon the cooperative model for co-innovation in favor of the adversarial model of user control and extraction.

Corporate apologists like to claim that the proliferation of apps proves that users like them. Neoliberal economists love the idea that business as usual represents a "revealed preference." This is an intellectually unserious tautology: "you do this, so you must like it":

https://boingboing.net/2024/01/22/hp-ceo-says-customers-are-a-bad-investment-unless-they-can-be-made-to-buy-companys-drm-ink-cartridges.html

Calling an action where no alternatives are permissible a "preference" or a "choice" is a cheap trick – especially when considered against the "preferences" that reveal themselves when a real choice is possible. Take commercial surveillance: when Apple gave Ios users a choice about being spied on – a one-click opt of of app-based surveillance – 96% of users choice no spying:

https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2021/05/96-of-us-users-opt-out-of-app-tracking-in-ios-14-5-analytics-find/

But then Apple started spying on those very same users that had opted out of spying by Facebook and other Apple competitors:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/11/14/luxury-surveillance/#liar-liar

Neoclassical economists aren't just obsessed with revealed preferences – they also love to bandy about the idea of "moral hazard": economic arrangements that tempt people to be dishonest. This is typically applied to the public ("consumers" in the contemptuous parlance of econospeak). But apps are pure moral hazard – for corporations. The ability to prohibit desire paths – and literally imprison rivals who help your users thwart those prohibitions – is too tempting for companies to resist.

The fact that the majority of web users block ads reveals a strong preference for not being spied on ("users just want relevant ads" is such an obvious lie that doesn't merit any serious discussion):

https://www.iccl.ie/news/82-of-the-irish-public-wants-big-techs-toxic-algorithms-switched-off/

Giant companies attained their scale by learning from their users, not by thwarting them. The person using technology always knows something about what they need to do and how they want to do it that the designers can never anticipate. This is especially true of people who are unlike those designers – people who live on the other side of the world, or the other side of the economic divide, or whose bodies don't work the way that the designers' bodies do:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/10/20/benevolent-dictators/#felony-contempt-of-business-model

Apps – and other technologies that are locked down so their users can be locked in – are the height of technological arrogance. They embody a belief that users are to be told, not heard. If a user wants to do something that the designer didn't anticipate, that's the user's fault:

https://www.wired.com/2010/06/iphone-4-holding-it-wrong/

Corporate enthusiasm for prohibiting you from reconfiguring the tools you use to suit your needs is a declaration of the end of history. "Sure," John Deere execs say, "we once learned from farmers by observing how they modified their tractors. But today's farmers are so much stupider and we are so much smarter that we have nothing to learn from them anymore."

Spying on your users to control them is a poor substitute asking your users their permission to learn from them. Without technological self-determination, preferences can't be revealed. Without the right to seize the means of computation, the desire paths never emerge, leaving designers in the dark about what users really want.

Our policymakers swear loyalty to "innovation" but when corporations ask for the right to decide who can innovate and how, they fall all over themselves to create laws that let companies punish users for the crime of contempt of business-model.

I'm Kickstarting the audiobook for The Bezzle, the sequel to Red Team Blues, narrated by @wilwheaton! You can pre-order the audiobook and ebook, DRM free, as well as the hardcover, signed or unsigned. There's also bundles with Red Team Blues in ebook, audio or paperback.

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/01/24/everything-not-mandatory/#is-prohibited

Image: Belem (modified) https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Desire_path_%2819811581366%29.jpg

CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Writing Notes: Hair Types & Haircuts

Hair Type - refers to the attributes that make up your natural hair’s appearance and feel.

Your hair type depends on genetics, which dictates the following factors:

Dryness: As with skincare, moisture is essential for your hair’s health. Dry hair produces less oil on average. Some hairs might be greasier than others, especially after physical activity, and produce more natural oils. Special shampoos and deep-conditioning products can help with oil buildup to dry out and temper your hair’s oil production. You can also use serums or leave-in conditioners to boost hydration.

Texture: In terms of hair texture, the four main hair looks are straight, wavy, curly, and coily. Genetics can determine the shape of your hair follicles, which results in one or a combination of these different textures.

Thickness: Thick hair means your scalp produces hair in a higher density, while thin hair means there is more significant negative space between each hair follicle. Thin hair is not always a sign of hair loss or unhealthy hair; some people naturally have fine hair.

Types of Hair

The hair care industry categorizes hair into four types plus additional subcategories.

Knowing your hair type can help you choose mousses, hair masks, and other care products that can help strengthen your cuticles and improve hair strand health to prevent breakage.

Learn what defines each type and how they differ from one another:

Type 1: Straight hair, type 1, features round follicles, grows flat, and lies flat on the scalp. Type 1A hair is straight and fine, while type 1B has more volume and might hold more curls. Type 1C is thick and coarse, which can lead to frizzing.

Type 2: Wavy hair, type 2, has oblong follicles and grows in a slight zigzag pattern. Wavy hair can frizz in heat and humidity, making it look even curlier than usual. Type 2A wavy hair is fine and forms an “S” shape when it’s dry. Type 2B features waves at the mid-length, while type 2C is thicker and prone to extreme frizziness.

Type 3: Curly hair, type 3, has oval-shaped follicles that produce tighter curls than those of wavy hair. Curl patterns will vary in shape and size. Type 3A hair features loose, spiral curls, whereas type 3B has slightly tighter springs. Type 3C describes tight curls with a thicker texture.

Type 4: Coily hair is Type 4. Coily hair features coils, a tightly packed curl type resembling ringlets or corkscrews. These tight curls lend a heavier density to hair. Type 4A has defined coils, while type 4B has a crimped pattern. Type 4C is coily hair with a thick texture.

Hair Porosity

Hair porosity describes hair’s ability to absorb moisture.

The float test measures this porosity.

After brushing your hair, remove a single strand and place it in a bowl of warm water to see if it has low, medium, or high porosity:

Low porosity: If the hair strand floats in the water, it has a low porosity level, meaning it does not retain moisture well and needs hair care products for extra care. Avoid using oils, which will sit on top of the strands and not absorb well.

Medium porosity: If your hair sinks to the bottom, it has medium porosity. It takes in moisture easily and retains it fairly well. Your hair could benefit, if you desire, from the use of medium-weight products that will help it better maintain moisture.

High porosity: If your strand of hair sinks to the bottom of the water, it has high porosity. It takes in moisture easily but might not be able to retain it for long. Use deep conditioners and repair treatments, such as hair masks.

Tips for Styling Different Hair Types

Each hair type requires special hair care and styling products. Ask your hairstylist for their recommendations, and follow these tips:

Dry your hair type correctly. If you have straight hair, dry it before bed and use natural hair products to keep frizz at bay. You can blow-dry wavy hair to give it a fuller look and style it in the direction of your natural wave pattern. For curly hair, avoid heat-styling methods as they can damage the hair cuticles. Towel-dry coily hair after showering to remove excess water. Since this hair type is already dry, avoid using blow dryers—air-drying it reduces the risk of breakage.

Keep a hair care routine. Different types of hair require different schedules of care. For example, straight, thin hair requires more frequent washing—about three times a week—than other types to control oil production. People with tight coils can wash their hair once a week to prevent breakage.

Use the right products. Using the best products for your hair type is essential to maintain hair health. For example, coily hair is the driest type of hair. Apply deep conditioners weekly. Curly hair has less natural oil and benefits from the use of a sulfate-free shampoo, which moisturizes the hair.

Haircuts for Thin Hair

The best haircuts for naturally thin hair accentuate the face shape while making the hair appear more luscious.

Asymmetrical pixie cut: As a dramatic take on the classic pixie cut, the asymmetrical pixie uses a deep side part to make thin strands sit higher on the head. This short haircut is a low-maintenance style that adds volume and shape to fine hair types. Hairstylists also recommend angling the side part according to your face structure, so your hair highlights your natural features.

Long bob: Also known as a lob, a long bob is a twist on the traditional bob haircut. The style extends the classic blunt bob to the collarbone or just shorter than shoulder-length. Unlike other types of bobs that incorporate different layers, the long bob is a one-length look. Long bobs work well for fine, straight hair since the flat hair strands show off the blunt cut. The blunt ends also add body to thinner hair and complement heart-shaped faces.

Layers: Face-framing layers, such as side bangs and mid-length angles, add extra volume and give the illusion of thick hair. If you wear ponytails, braids, or messy buns, opt for long layers to ensure the ends of your hair tie back. Adding layers to chin-length cuts also make the hair appear thicker, but these types of short hairstyles are more challenging to style in an updo.

Shag: For a low-maintenance look, consider styling fine hair with a shag haircut. With its choppy layers, shags makes thin hair appear thicker. Add a spritz of sea salt spray followed by a mist of hair spray to create tousled beach waves. Wavy hair is a signature feature of the messy shag and adds volume to thin locks.

Wispy bangs: Straight curtain bangs weigh down fine hair and make strands appear thinner. Opt for loose, wispy bangs along a middle part if you want to add bangs to your hair look. Apply a dime-sized amount of pomade to dry hair before separating your bangs and taming flyaways.

How to Style Naturally Thin Hair

Follow these hair care and styling tips to add volume and texture to your naturally fine hair:

Choose a layered look. If you have medium-length or long hair, opt for a hairstyle that adds height, such as a half-up, half-down look. For curly hair, consider using curlers or a curling iron to touch up the top layers of your hair. Defining these top curls adds volume and movement to your hairline.

Gently comb damp hair. Thin hair is more prone to breakage and hair loss than thicker hair types. To detangle your hair without causing split ends, let your hair air-dry most of the way, and instead of using a hairbrush, use a wide-toothed comb to brush your damp hair and detangle your ends.

Only condition the ends of your hair. While conditioner is nourishing and hydrating, too much of it can weigh down fine hair. To avoid saturating your hair with products, apply a nickel-sized amount of conditioner to the ends of your hair. As a general rule, always use conditioner on the bottom half of your hair, as it’s too heavy for the scalp region.

Opt for lightweight hair products. Heavy products weigh down thin hair and cause greasiness. Using the right products helps promote healthy natural hair growth and creates the illusion of thicker hair. Instead of oils and hair moisturizers, opt for lightweight mousses, texturizing sprays, and dry shampoos. These types of volumizing products minimize sebum buildup, reduce frizz, and lift the upper half of your hair for added volume.

Rough-dry your hair. Blow-drying your hair is another way to enhance naturally thin hair. If you have medium-length hair with long layers, consider getting a blowout to define your layers and increase volume. For shorter haircuts with minimal layers, opt for the rough-dry technique, which lets the hair shafts partially air-dry before styling with a blow-dryer. This DIY blowout method uses your fingers instead of a round brush to tousle and scrunch the hair as you move the blow-dryer around your scalp. Pushing the hair shafts up with your fingers is a quick way to enhance your hair texture and create natural volume.

How to Style Curly Hair

Arguably the most important part of styling curly hair is the way you treat it beforehand. Follow these curly hair tips for great-looking, bouncy curls all day long.

Comb wet hair from the bottom up. Your curly hair will detangle best if you start at the tips and comb up toward the roots. Always use a wide-tooth comb and gently work your way through small sections, detangling any knots as you go. Comb while your hair is still wet to allow your curls to dry in their natural curl pattern.

Deep condition once a week. Use a deep-conditioning hair mask designed for your hair texture once a week to restore luster to your curls and lock in moisture. For extra moisture, apply the conditioner to dry hair and cover with a shower cap for twenty minutes, then shampoo and condition as usual.

Dry with a T-shirt or microfiber towel. Use a T-shirt or microfiber towel to dry your hair. Terrycloth towels are rough on curly hair and can create frizz and breakage, while T-shirts and microfiber towels are softer and gentler on curls. You can also let your hair air-dry, or try “plopping,” which involves placing your hair in a mound atop your head and then wrapping it in a T-shirt to dry.

Find the right hair products. Use a shampoo and conditioner designed for curly hair. If you have dry hair, aim for sulfate-free shampoos that won’t strip nutrients from your curls and use a moisturizing conditioner. Look for styling products that are good for your hair type: Coconut oil will de-frizz, a leave-in conditioner will hydrate, and a mousse or curl cream will add body to fine hair.

Trim your hair regularly. Split ends create frizzy hair. To keep your hairstyle looking smooth and bouncy, visit your hairstylist regularly for a trim. Ask your stylist how often you should come in for a trim and follow their recommendation.

Protect your curls at night. If you want to keep your curls from getting flattened or frizzy while you sleep, try the “pineapple trick” by gathering your hair at the top of your head in a soft scrunchie or hair tie to hold it together in a loose bun. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase will prevent tangling and frizz while you sleep.

Use a curling iron. If your hair refuses to cooperate, a curling iron will help you get rogue curls back in place. Use a curling iron that’s the same diameter as your curl type.

Use a curl-refreshing spray. A curl-refresher hair spray will give you bouncy ringlets after a night of sleep. Make your own out of warm water and leave-in conditioner, or purchase a spray designed for this purpose. Spritz liberally and scrunch your hair with your hand to create defined curls.

Use a diffuser to add body. When you want to blow-dry your hair, use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to avoid direct heat, which can cause frizz. Spray a thermal heat protectant in your hair before drying to protect your curls from heat damage. Always blow-dry your hair upside down to retain the body.

Tips to Treat Straight Hair

Using the proper techniques and hair products for naturally straight hair helps nourish and strengthen the follicles, combatting split ends and promoting healthy growth. Follow these tips to care for straight hair:

Condition regularly: To prevent breakage and dry ends, apply a moisturizing oil to the ends of dry or wet hair. If you have long straight hair, also consider using a conditioner with hydrating ingredients, such as argon, rosemary, or coconut oil to prevent frizz and flyaways.

Use heat protectant products: If you use a curling iron, straightener, or hair dryer on a consistent basis, apply heat protectant products to prime and protect your hair from heat damage.

Wash every other day: Unlike wavy or curly hair types, straight hair requires more frequent washes. Since the hair shafts are flat, oil buildup slides down the ends of the hair more easily, resulting in greasy hair. To prevent straight hair from laying flat and looking oily, wash your hair every other day with a sulfate-free shampoo.

Haircuts for Naturally Straight Hair

Straight hair types can pull off sleek styles with sharp edges. Here are some of the best haircuts to highlight your naturally straight locks:

A-line bob: This blunt cut is a twist on the classic bob. Known for its gradual slope, the A-line bob is shorter in the back and longer in the front. Straight hair works well with an A-line look since the flat hair shafts show off the angled hairline.

Long bob: Also known as a lob, a long bob highlights heart-shaped faces. Unlike a traditional bob haircut, which falls around chin-length, a long bob ends just above the shoulders. This blunt bob look also works well for blowouts.

Pixie cut: For fine hair, choosing a haircut with a deep side part is a way to add volume. A short pixie cut is an edgy hairstyle that typically uses a hard part to add height to the hair look. Defined by short layers on the back of the head and longer layers on top, the pixie cut is a low-maintenance look for straight hairstyles.

Side-swept bangs: Another cut that offers various styling options for straight hair is one with side-swept bangs. This look adds shape and volume to thin hair and round faces. Side-swept bangs also work for different hair lengths, so you can incorporate these bangs into a long or mid-length hairstyle.

Undercut: If you have thick hair and prefer a short haircut, consider styling your straight hair as an undercut. This trendy style has short sides that frame a long top piece, creating a striking look. You can play with the top layer of hair, styling it slicked back with a pomade or letting it hang down naturally across your forehead.

How to Style Straight Hair

Depending on the length of your hair and face shape, you can style straight hair with different grooming techniques.

Short hair: Use pomades and hairspray to style shorter hair. Applying these types of styling products prevents frizz and helps your style lasts throughout the day. When using a pomade on short haircuts, apply a dime-size amount to your hair to create a slick hair texture. Stylists also recommend using a lightweight moisturizer on skin fades to prevent the back of your head from becoming dry and irritated. You can use texturizing sprays and mousse to add volume to short hairstyles and incorporate dry shampoo into your hair routine to prevent oil buildup.

Medium-length hair: If you have mid-length hair, you can style your hair up or down. Casual updos, such as low ponytails and side braids, work well with straight, medium hair. You can dress these easy hairstyles up with a colorful barrette or hair tie. For a twist on your natural hair look, add a spritz of sea salt spray and let your hair air-dry to create tousled beach waves. Finish this wavy hair look with a thin layer of hairspray.

Long hair: To prevent tangling and split ends, use a boar-bristle brush or wide-toothed comb on damp hair. When blow-drying long straight hair, use alligator clips to divide sections of hair into manageable pieces and style with a round brush. You can try several long hairstyles, including half-up looks or updos like messy buns, high ponytails, or intricate braids. To style bangs with longer hair, use a blow-dryer and round brush, combing your hair away from your forehead.

Bob Haircut - a short style that frames your face and ends near your jawline.

This versatile hairstyle suits different hair types.

A bob creates a sleek look for thin hair and helps tame thicker tresses.

Different variations of the bob incorporate fringe, layers, and face-framing angles to add movement and shape.

Types of Bob Haircuts

Bob haircuts complement different face shapes and styles. Hairstylists cut long and short hair into the following bob variations:

A-line bob: This chic hairstyle features an angled cut. Shorter in the back and longer in the front, the A-line bob adds volume with its gradual slope. Consider opting for an A-line bob if you have a square face.

Classic bob: Also known as a blunt bob, this short hairstyle is a simple cut that remains the same length around the base of the hair. The blunt cut gives the face a round look, balancing the appearance of long face shapes.

Lob: Also known as a “long bob,” a lob is a longer version of the classic bob. Lobs end around shoulder-length and suit all face shapes. You can use a middle part to create a modern look or style your long bob with a deep side part to add volume. Lobs are a great option if you have long hair and want to try a short haircut while still keeping some length.

Layered bob: This short bob style uses choppy layers to add body and movement to the cut. If you have straight, fine hair, a layered bob gives the illusion of voluminous, thick hair.

Shaggy bob: Known for its razor cut, the shaggy bob is a bouncy, textured bob that features rough layers. Wispy fringe or side bangs are other common elements of shaggy bobs. This tousled, messy bob style is a low-maintenance look.

How to Style a Bob Haircut

While most bobs are too short to tie into an updo, there are many other styling techniques you can use to enhance the look of your bob haircut. Here are styling tips for different hair types:

Curly hair: Maintaining a curly bob involves preventing frizz and enhancing your natural hair texture. Apply a dime-size amount of styling cream to damp hair, gently scrunching the product into your curls. This application method defines your curls and helps prevent frizz. Avoid brushing your hair, as this crimps curls and causes flyaways. If you need to detangle your curls before styling them, use a wide-tooth comb and remove knots gently when your hair is wet. Finish the look with hair clips or a headband.

Straight hair: Unlike curly hair, which has natural volume, straight hair can appear flat. To enhance the look of your straight bob, apply a texturizing spray, dry shampoo, or mousse to your hair to add volume, or use a round brush when blow-drying your hair. Start with the bottom sections, gently curling the layers as you blow-dry, and apply a lightweight hairspray to make your blowout last throughout the day.

Wavy hair: For wavy hair types, play with your hair’s natural texture to create the tousled look of beachy waves. Add a spritz of sea salt spray to your hair, scrunching your wavy bob to accentuate your hair. You can also use a curling iron to touch up your beach waves—just apply a heat protectant spray to prep your hair.

Shag - a haircut defined by choppy layers, tousled volume, and wispy bangs.

As a versatile hairstyle, the shag is adaptable to different hair types and lengths.

The classic shag features soft beach waves, but variations on the shag style include the undercut shag, which has a razor-cut side shave, the wolf cut, and the shag mullet, which combines long layers in the back with shorter layers in the front.

You can have a straight or curly shag haircut and different length cuts, from long hair that extends beyond your shoulders to just above the collarbone (like a lob, or long bob haircut).

Wolf Cut - a hairstyle that features choppy layers on top and longer layers around the sides of your head.

Inspired by the retro rock 'n' roll look popular throughout the 1970s, this cut concentrates volume on the top half of the head, becoming thinner toward the hair ends.

The signature fringe of the wolf cut ends around brow length; however, you can customize the length of your bangs according to your face shape.

Straight, wavy, and curly hair types can create the type of tousled, bouncy lift that defines the voluminous wolf haircut.

If you have a naturally wavy or curly wolf cut, use a curl cream to add definition to your locks.

For straight hair, add a texturizing spray to create body and movement.

The wolf cut look also suits different hair lengths, so you can adapt this style into a long or short haircut.

Types of Hair Clips

Regardless of your hairstyle and whether you have straight or curly hair, there are different types of hair clips to help maintain your look throughout the day.

Alligator clips: Unlike other types of clips, alligator hair clips function as a temporary piece to hold hair back during haircuts or styling. Alligator clips have a unique pinch style that grips hair and prevents it from slipping out of the clip. Since alligator clips have a strong clasp, hairstylists use them to hold curls in place and pin hair off the face.

Banana clips: Known for their unique shape, banana clips have a row of stretchy teeth enclosed by two flexible pieces of plastic. Popular during the 80s, banana hair clips create a voluminous ponytail. You can also use a banana clip to secure a French braid or bun hairdo.

Bobby pins: As a versatile, lightweight clip, bobby pins are a staple hair accessory. Both thick and thin hair types can use bobby pins. You can use them to create messy buns or clip bangs back. Depending on how you position the bobby pins, you can either display them or hide them in your hair.

Claw clip: Also known as jaw clips, claw clips are a hair accessory made with a single clamp and row of teeth. Claw hair clips range in size depending on the number of teeth; however, most claw clips can hold a large section of hair. You can use a claw clip to replace a hair tie and create an elegant French twist or a classic half-up, half-down look. Butterfly clips are small claw clips that look like a butterfly.

Duckbill clips: Similar to alligator clips, duckbill clips are for haircuts or styling rather than for use as an everyday fashion accessory. Made with a large, flat prong, duckbill clips divide the hair into sections so stylists can easily cut and style hair. Using duckbill clips also makes the blow-drying and styling process easier if you do your hair at home.

French barrette: Unlike other types of hair clips, French barrettes have a tension bar positioned under the clip’s flat surface. Since small sections of hair are secure between the top and bottom piece, the tension bar is out of view. French hair barrettes come in various colors and patterns, from minimalist pastel shades to bold prints.

Snap clips: A great option for fine hair, snap clips secure small sections of hair without slipping. Snap clips open and close with a simple push.

Sources: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 ⚜ More: Notes ⚜ Writing Resources PDFs ⚜ Hair Styles

[who-can-touch-my-boob]

<- Sanemi simp posts masterlist

The Sanemi softober continues and this time it’s another heartbreaking one. Because I’m currently rewatching the Sanemi and Genya episodes and reading the novels.

Not proofread, just wrote and posted because I’m sad.

—

First of all, no big brother should have to bury his little brother… not after already burying his other siblings years ago right after killing his mother. Sanemi can still feel the weight of each one of his sibling’s and mother’s dead bodies.

Sanemi still remember the heart wrenching cries of Genya, his hand still clutching onto the cleaver while his eyes locked onto the scene before him. He knew his little brother’s words were nothing more than a child grieving, struggling to understand what truly was going on.

Once Genya had been taken away by neighbours who’d heard the commotion, Sanemi merely stood alone on the streets watching the kimono left behind after his mother. He couldn’t tell if this was all merely a nightmare and he’d soon be woken up by the soothing voice of his beloved Ma.

With heavy steps, his bare feet bruised and calloused from walking shoeless his whole life. Sanemi inwardly tells himself this isn’t real, nothings real.

Sadly it was all very real.

He gently place the corpses of his deceased siblings on a wooden carrier he usually used for his job. Once they were all loaded, he covers their pale and lifeless faces and makes his way to the forest. A small clearing, that’s where he chose to bury them.

A place which held a lot of precious memories, laughter shared. The perfect place for his family to rest in peace.

Koto, Shuya, Sumi, Hiroshi and Teiko.

Sanemi can’t remember if he even blinked once, his eyes dry and stinging. The tears shed has etched into his features.

At last, he pulls out the kimono his mom wore along with a hairpin he had bought her with his first allowance. He was five years old, too young to work, but when he learned he was going to be a big brother for the first time he wanted nothing more than to help her.

“I’m sorry, Ma. I’m sorry…”

He stares at the graves, kneeling before them as he pours his heart out. After mourning for hours, darkness once more fallen over him - Sanemi knew he had to do everything in his power to make sure he won’t be burying his last living family member too.

—

“Because my ‘Nemi… is… the nicest… person… ever…”

Those words echoed through Sanemi’s already traumatised mind, his hands trembling so hard he’s barely able to maintain a grip on the shovel. Despite digging graves before, this time it took much longer.

The grave needs to be bigger than the others and with his missing digits he also struggles. Careful to not cause his healing wounds to open up, Sanemi is careful to take a lot of breaks. At this point he’s sure he’ll never stop crying.

After hours, just as sun is setting he’s done. Done digging, done burying… just done. He feels empty, broken beyond repair and utterly alone.

“Sanemi?”

The familiar voice calling out to him pulls him back into reality. The reality where he’s kneeling before the graves of his loved one and holding his sword against his throat. For a moment he had been ready to end it all, so join his family again.

But then he’s reminded he’s not alone. He has you. You, the light in his life, the one who somehow manage to ground him amidst the chaos and grief. Your arms wraps around his kneeling form, hugging him from behind tightly and as you whisper soothing comforts into his ear, Sanemi barely notice how your hands gently remove the sword from his grip.

“They wouldn’t want that, Sanemi… for you to join them like that.”

He knows you’re right and he nods in response as he turns around, wrapping his arms around you and pull you into his lap. His tears soaks the collar of your shirt and you stroke his hair tenderly, placing series of kisses in his hair and hug him.

Sanemi’s voice is barely audible between his hitched sobs and shallow breaths. The grief is too much for one man to shoulder alone and you know that no matter how much love you give him, you’ll never be able to truly fill the void left behind. But that’s alright, because you will never run out of love and remind Sanemi the rest of your lives together.

“I miss them… so fucking much.”

He whisper hoarsely, the pain and sorrow in his voice breaks your heart and all you can do it just hug him tighter and hope Sanemi choose to not leave you behind and reunite with his family before his time.

[octuscle]

Hi, im a 19 yo nerd, yesterday some kids wre playing with a soccer ball in front of my house, the ball got into the garden of my house and when i threw it out, i didnt nlticed i threw it a bit far and it arrived into the house across the street, breaking a window, the neighbor, a single man, came to my house and told my parents what i did, he demands i repair the window by myself, i dont know how to do that, can you give me a little help?

First of all, you do what you do best. You sit down at your computer. Enter "repair soccer window" into Google. A lot of things come up that won't help you at all. Care tips for footballs. And advertisements for household contents and liability insurance. The soccer care thing doesn't look very helpful, but it might be interesting.

Shit, you can waste a lot of time on the Internet very quickly. After half an hour, you're back to the current and upcoming match day in the Premier League. But you still don't know anything about repairing windows. "Repairing windows". Perhaps it would help to remove soccer from the search query. It doesn't matter why the window is broken. It just needs to be repaired.

Now we're getting closer to the point. Lots of tutorials on youtube. Surely there's something there. Unfortunately, you don't even know what kind of window is broken. And what exactly is broken. Damn, just how many different types of window panes there are. You can find an article about German windows. They have a lot of damn cool features. I wonder if that would be a market to sell and install German ones here. What this tilt function is supposed to do is still not clear to you. But these shutters on the windows are hot shit. You'd like to install something like that at your parents' house.

You're guaranteed not to install something from Schüco for a few thousand dollars in your neighbor's house… You're assuming that your neighbor will have vertical sliding windows in most of the rooms, just like you do. Probably made of aluminum. A shame, really. Horizontal sliding windows made of wood with glazing bars would fit the character of the house much better.

Haven't you ever worked for your neighbor? You must still have plans and views from the street side. Or at least a photo. Yes, here. Where were you standing again? How hard did you throw the ball? What was the wind like? Just because you did an apprenticeship as a carpenter doesn't mean you're stupid. So it's probably the window of the study on the second floor. Yes, it must have been rotten, you can see that quite clearly in the photo. Just replacing the glass won't help much.

Nowadays, working on the computer is half the battle. Calculating material requirements, programming saws for cutting. And downloading some porn in between. Hehehe, unlike your father, you don't need to hang up raunchy calendars in the workshop anymore. Your father is hardly ever seen here anyway. It's no longer his world. In his day, a carpenter needed a hammer and a saw, he used to say. Old man, those days are long gone.

Before you start, you went to your neighbor's house across the street. Real life is sometimes more reliable than virtual life. But it was the right window, you measured it again with your laser measuring device. You had miscalculated by a few millimeters. You are a craftsman with passion and dedication. You don't mess around. You deliver precision work.

"Mr. T, better than before my throw," you say with a grin. But it's the pure truth. But you know exactly why your neighbor insisted that you carry out the repair. He'll do anything to get you to fix things in his house. And when no more chairs tip over and no more doors squeak, you'll take care of Mr. T. yourself.

He asks if you can have a look at the shower after the window. While you take off your dungarees, you say that you are a carpenter and not a plumber. You will probably need help. You don't have to ask Mr. T for long.

[sinisterexaggerator]

Fair Recompense

Tech x Gen! Reader

Warnings: None. Small bit of fluff and a kiss.

Word count: 1.3k

Notes: I decided to write a series of "goodbye" ficlets where the reader takes / removes something from each of CF99 as they part ways, however this one, along with Wrecker, deviated a little bit from that path. In this case, the story is left open-ended.

Crosshair || Echo || Hunter || Wrecker

---

Luck was your business, born into a family who owned a bit of property on Ord Mantell. While most had to search out creative ways to eke a living, you had it made.

As the proud owner of a spacious hangar, it meant you did not have to want for much. Credits were earned not by hard work, but by allowing patrons to dock their starships; there were never enough empty bays to go around.

Still, you were fair; you did not make it a habit to overcharge. Not only that, but you offered droids, specialized equipment, and your mechanical expertise when needed to those who could use a helping hand to make repairs.

It was here that one particular man caught your eye. While his companions found better things to do, this clone remained.  Besides being one of several million replicas of a long-dead bounty hunter, he looked familiar to you. You vaguely recalled witnessing his chiseled mug somewhere on the HoloNet; he was plagued by notoriety for a Riot Race he had won back on Serolonis, yet you failed to mention it.

Tech was his name; he did not pay you any mind as you watched him work from day-to-day. You were careful not to get too close, hoping that he would not take notice of your studious appraisal – at least at first.

Then, you found it was hard to capture his attention, even if you desired to strike up a conversation. So caught up in his own affairs, he barely seemed to register your presence except when rent was coming due.

You asked about his travels, and what he liked to do for fun. You offered him fresh Jawa Juice, and even tried to inquire about his ship.

Answers were scant, his patience sparse when it came to what he perhaps thought was frivolous small talk that served no purpose, or so it seemed. You had become so enthralled with him that your heart felt heavy in your chest with each rejection, even if it was only something you yourself perceived.  

Determination took hold as you decided to attempt a different tactic, hearing that he would soon take off on another mission for Ciddarin Scaleback. Word traveled fast in these parts, and rumors had begun to circulate; Tech was wanted by the Empire, but as far as you were concerned, his secret was safe with you.

“Tech?” you asked, more so to alert him to your approach. He turned; he was undeniably handsome, no matter that his gorgeous brown eyes rarely lifted from off his datapad.

“Yes, what is it?” he questioned offhand, fiddling with some unknown sequence of code that was reflected within the transparisteel lenses of his round goggles.

“I hear you are heading out tomorrow,” you remarked, twisting your foot against the flattop of your hangar; you kept your hands behind your back on purpose.

“Do not worry, I shall settle our bill before we vacate the premises,” he reassured you dryly. He did not give you a second thought, or even a second glance.

“I’m not worried,” you shyly stated, admiring the distinctive features of his face. “I want to give you something,” you timidly informed him.

Tech’s forefinger pressed against the bridge of his eyewear, pushing it snug against his nose. Finally, he looked at you, amber-colored eyes even more beautiful up close, or as close as you dared.

“I do not understand,” he replied, his tone neither harsh nor excited. It was an honest declaration on his end; suddenly your palms were sweating, your hold loosening on the item stowed away just out of sight.

Tech arched a brow, taking note of the minor change in your appearance with muted curiosity, yet he could not keep from adding his two credits. “You appear to be ‘under the weather,’” he said laconically, Tech’s tone changing to emphasize the usage of this specific idiom. “Perhaps you could do with some rest.”

“I’m— I’m fine, really, I—” You bit your lip, gazing at him as if there was a gulf the size of Yavin Prime between you; you felt like you might cry, however asinine the notion. “I brought you a laser-caliper, since you keep having to borrow mine,” you whispered.

“Why?” he asked; it was a sincere question, Tech unsure how he had earned such a gift when he had done nothing to warrant this show of kindness.

You brought the small tool out from behind your back, fiddling with it in your hands. You hoped your answer would be good enough to satisfy him. “Because— because you need one of your own,” you humbly offered.

“And what do you want in exchange?” The query baffled you; you had not thought that far ahead. Should you want something? All you had wished to do was make his life a little easier.

You glanced about, anxious, and suddenly unsure. Was this somehow too forward? Was it obvious you had grown to enjoy his company, however short he was with you? Were you making a fool out of yourself?

“To see your eyes,” you blurted out. The man paused any movement, his attractive countenance, as always, an unreadable mask of what you assumed to be near-cold indifference.

“I beg your-?”

“-Please,” you interrupted, your voice laced with desperation. The word had exited too quickly from your lips; you felt ashamed.

“I’m sorry—” you corrected, not knowing which way to turn, which way to walk in order to rid yourself of this overtly embarrassing predicament.

“The recompense you have requested seems fair,” Tech asserted plainly.

You mildly gasped, a small intake of breath that caught in your throat. The tall, handsome clone strode forward, holding out his hand to take the laser-caliper.

“And a kiss,” you added, too brazen for your own good; you presumed you had pushed your luck too far. Still, you waited, your wincing becoming more defined the longer his silence stretched between you both.

“Fine,” he answered tersely, causing your eyes to widen and expand. He stood before you, inactive, delaying his departure back to where the Marauder camped, eager for his tending.

Slowly, thoughtfully, you extended your arm, gifting to him the laser-caliper you had promised. He took it from you, taking the time to inspect it before squarely staring through to your soul.

“Well?” he asked, both hands full up with his datapad and the tool now in his possession. Nervously, you searched his face, then you sought to do what had previously been thought unthinkable.

Meticulously, and with the utmost care, you lifted and removed Tech’s goggles from off his nose. Once loosed from his ears, you were deliberate with your intentions; you made sure not to pull a single strand of his curly hair.

Though you now appeared mostly as a blur, Tech could still make out your expression. He noted you looked pleased, and in turn he felt slightly amused, his feelings marked by the smallest upturn of his shapely lips.

“Now?” you asked, afraid he might change his mind at any moment.

“Now is as good a time as any,” he responded, Tech going so far as to tilt his body forward, his mouth mere centimeters from your own.

You craned your neck, taking a new liberty, your free hand meeting the turn of his cheek. You cradled his firm jaw in the crook of your palm as you unabashedly lingered, pressing into the soft flesh of his downy lips.

Then, he surprised you; he had clipped his datapad to his belt in one fluid motion, the backs of his gloved fingers tracing the curved line of your jaw. His caress extended from the base of your ear to the start of your soft neck; you could not help but to relax at his welcomed touch.

Your eyes closed as he attempted to deepen your kiss, the sound of your heartbeat drumming in your ears as you allowed Tech to take the lead.

It would last longer than you had ever hoped for, stealing your breath away. Once you found the wherewithal to break free of your shared embrace, Tech gave you the equivalent of a knowing smirk.

“Truth be told, I thought you would never ask.”

[lilyofporcelain]

DWC - 18 Nov - Day 2 - Deceit / Eternal

(Potential Content Warnings: Violence)

She had found it entirely by accident. In truth, it shouldn’t have been there at all. She wasn’t even certain how it got there. The first time Laeynna had seen it, it had been at least a year before, one part to a whole collection. Part of an ongoing series of gifts that had easily been planted fifteen, twenty years prior. In those days, she’d woken in less than luxurious inn rooms, often with a bottle or two of red wine not far from her. Usually a mess. Memories a jumbled gaggle of the night before and distinct sensation of lingering remorse, regret, and absolute disgust. In fact, she had experienced so many of those days that they all eventually bled together and over time, it became very easy for her to simply sink into loathing. 

To think that Laeynna Emberflame—No, Zinnvais Luridveil—had such a fall from grace that she deserved this. All of it. She couldn’t have said she’d stopped feeling. Even then, she’d known that simply wasn’t realistic. She certainly had wanted to, however. If she had the ability to shut off each and every little scatter of touch, perhaps she could have passed for normal. As it stood, she’d become a husk in a relatively short time.

The first time had been the most difficult. Yet at the same time, it had also been the easiest. The best thing about having so little was that there was so little left to be lost and, in some backwards optimism, so much to be gained.

On the other side of the water in arid heat and desert-like climes, Laeynna had established herself. Most of those days spent performing manual labour. Piss poor tailoring skills with repairing rags. Even merely carrying things back and forth. She had expected to continue living in tattered, half-missing wear with knotted hair and dirt consistently smudged across her features. Where once she had been accustomed to milk baths and perfumed shampoos, she had resigned herself to a life where she ate so little that the thought of eating in general failed to appeal to her. 

Everything changed when Meillan entered the picture.

What he had likely seen in her was very much the entirety of her person—a woman down on her luck, desperate, starving, and in need. She didn’t know very much about him. He was a clean-cut man. Handsome to some, probably, though she hadn’t spared a single thought of that nature for him. He had coin, however, and that made him immediately an object of interest. He also knew how to appeal to her. She could be fed and clothed in like luxuries she’d surely been accustomed to amidst the sea of her people if only she did a few odd jobs for him.

Desperate times called for desperate measures.

Laeynna had, in truth, been good at what he put her to. A pretty little distraction when he dressed her up in finer things. Naturally charming without intending to be so. Excessively charming when she portrayed herself with intention. Most of what she did was diversion. Twining of words. Twining of bodies. Twining of thoughts. She removed obstacles to what he felt were hindrances. She paved the way to the elimination of those he considered opposition in the vast criminal underbelly that spanned regions and across the ocean.

It became more difficult when Meillan doubled his offers. When he wanted to know all of her secrets. To see how she had succeeded. To partake of the triumphs she brought for him. To put forward new triumphs, the kinds that his shrewd wife had too much respect to humour him with. Where Laeynna, by comparison, possessed no pride. Sacrificed it for survival. Sacrificed it for life. Beggars could not be choosers, went the saying, and that she understood well enough. She could not play a moral high groundwhen she had no ground to stand upon.

To survive, she shut herself off. Until a fated day came in which she was no longer willing to scrape herself across the dirt for him.

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

Meillan had written her over the years that followed, His letters were always the same. Reminders of the past behind her. Of what he could offer her. Fanciful jewellery, beautiful dresses, a comfortable living, if she would only submit herself to him again. To him, she had only been a thing, a concept she had grown strikingly familiar with. One more stain upon her chequered past.

Where once she wrote to him, declining his offers, eventually she stopped replying. Further, she came to a point in time where she refused to receive any additional parcels he sent in her direction. Yet everywhere she went, he found her, his little birds tailing after the botanist.

“You made me believe you loved me once.”

She remembered that line from one of them. No. Laeynna didn’t think she had. He wasn’t capable of love. And she had presented herself as a thing for long enough that she suspected if she once had a heart to love another, she certainly didn’t over time. Couldn’t have a heart when she had to choose between a moral compass and seeing another day. Meillan had only ever seen what he wanted to see. A delusion of his own making with the power of coin behind him to make it into reality.

Funny, how coin couldn’t protect a man from everything.

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

“I have some strong words for you, princess!”

He had been her saviour without knowing it, Zaihne. Yet she despised him. An excessively arrogant man who tailed her in hot pursuit of a relic she’d stumbled across in her travels. He and Meillan had both been after it. And Laeynna, in a show of tactical prowess, had opted to meet with all interested parties—not simply the two of them, searching for the one who would provide her with the largest satchel in return, only to keep the relic for herself. It was an act in which a great many who once might have been allies swiftly became enemies.

Although she’d no practical use for it, Laeynna’s choice to do hold onto a book not worth her life came with the knowledge that information held value and power.

The day Meillan had died had been the day Zaihne had ended him, leaving Laeynna splattered in the warmth of his blood. He had not realised how close she was to seeing her own setting sun just moments before he caught up with her. But by then, she had been resigned to it. Too tired to fight against Meillan any longer, to evade him, to attempt even an escape. She could have surrendered then, without pause, without hesitance, without even a second thought.

All Zaihne had asked for in return was the book and Meillan’s corpse. Laeynna had wanted to decimate it for everything the man had put her through over the years they’d known of one another. She’d wanted to eat his heart raw and torture him in the ways that could not even compare to how he had tortured her. Zaihne didn’t understand, then, only finding humour that she had lowered her standards so much to concede to a man like Meillan.

He still didn’t understand. He likely never would have. Nothing about Zaihne had ever seemed filled with desperation. Not that it mattered any longer. Those were days behind her. Just like the ones with Meillan. Just like the ones of tangled hair, starving belly, and parched throat. Just like the days of alchemical experiments and desecrating the dead all for the sake of recognition and value.

Turning Meillan’s letter over in her hand, the script was fine. Pretentious. As it always had been. Every bit as foppish as the man himself. And now—

Well. Now.

Opening her palm, a flutter of fel sprouted from empty air and as if it had been the simplest thing in the world, the green flames licked and took to the parchment, consuming it, devouring it, incinerating it until she was left with naught more than ash and the subtle burn of fel that flickered up across her collar in thin tendrils. A moment’s pain for a life without him. Only vengeance could have tasted sweeter and Zaihne had stolen that from her.

Her gaze fastened on the remnants of her past, one set of chains that freed her from a woman she was no longer, she felt only a lingering darkness she tucked away, refusing to entertain it.

“Rot.”

— @daily-writing-challenge

[quirkwizard]

What about a quirk based off Invincible: Resilient allows the user to create a light blue and yellow suit that allows them strength and flight, and minor protection, although at first the armour isn't that strong after taking physical damage and force it becomes more dense and durable (just like when invincible gets stronger from being injured,) though any cracks and wedges sustained to the suit takes a while to repair and leaves the user open to attacks.

I know you've shut down an Invincible-esque quirk but what would be the closest you get get to invincible in terms of strength flight and durability (maybe even a factor that allows the user to get stronger once injured though with no guarantee of survival.)

Could you make a quirk about Invincible or the Viltrumites from Invincible? Like based on an ability that stands out the most to you, (try to work around their overpowering strength,) thank you.

So the problem with trying to adapt the Viltrumites is not only the variety of powers being hard to fit into a single Quirk, but how boring those powers are. They are effectively a species of flying bricks. There isn't even a gimmick like there is with Kryptonians and absorbing sunlight. It's hard to make something distinct for them. I do think that is a good attempt, aside from just how on the nose it is with the design, but the flight is a problem. The Quirk isn't set up in a way that where having flight makes sense and it's a really strong feature to just throw in. But if you remove it, all you're left with is just "Hardening", but in a silly suit. You need to set up the Quirk in a way where all the applications make sense. For example, when I adapted them with "Exertion", I tried to work with how Omni Man described them flying. That they "move themselves freely through space". I then expanded that so they can exert more force as well, covering their physical powers.

[lastimeexteriors-nebraska]

Can Residential Metal Roofing Be Installed Over Plywood?

Are you considering upgrading your roof and wondering about the benefits of residential metal roofing? If you’re looking for a durable, energy-efficient solution that contributes to a greener planet, metal roofing might be the perfect fit for your home. This article will explore whether residential metal roofing can be installed over plywood and the advantages and considerations associated with this option. By the end, you’ll understand how to approach your roofing project better.

Understanding Residential Metal Roofing

Residential metal roofing has gained popularity in recent years for good reason. Made from materials like steel, aluminum, or copper, these roofs are aesthetically pleasing and incredibly functional. One of the standout features of metal roofing is its longevity; many metal roofs can last 40 years or longer with proper care. This durability translates into fewer replacements and repairs over time, ultimately saving homeowners money.

Benefits of Installing Over Plywood

You might wonder why installing residential metal roofing over plywood is an option. Here are some of the benefits:

Solid Foundation: Plywood provides a strong, stable surface for your metal roofing. This added rigidity helps maintain the roof's shape and mitigate issues like warping or sagging over time.

Ease of Installation: Metal roofing over plywood simplifies the process. The plywood acts as a deck, making securing the metal panels properly easier.

Improved Insulation: As discussed in the background information, insulation plays a vital role in energy efficiency. Plywood can serve as a base layer for insulation materials, helping to keep your home comfortable year-round.

Moisture Barrier: When combined with appropriate underlayment, plywood can help create a moisture barrier, reducing the risk of leaks and water damage.

Preparing for Installation

Before diving into the installation process, you should take a few steps to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Cleaning the Surface

Whether you’re worth an existing roof or starting fresh, cleaning the surface is essential. Remove debris, dirt, and old roofing materials to create a clean foundation for your metal roofing.

Assess Plywood Condition

If you’re installing over existing plywood, you’ll want to inspect it thoroughly. Check for signs of rot, warping, or damage. Sound plywood is crucial for a successful installation. If you notice any issues, it may be wise to replace the damaged sections before proceeding.

House Wrap Installation

Add a layer of house wrap or building paper over the plywood to enhance moisture resistance. This will help protect the plywood from moisture intrusion and contribute to the overall durability of your roofing system.

Installing Insulation

If you want to maximize energy efficiency, installing insulation beneath your residential metal roofing is smart. A few options exist, including fiberglass batts.

Rigid Board Insulation

For those installing new metal roofing, rigid foam boards are an excellent choice. Here’s how to incorporate them:

Prepare the Surface: Make sure the plywood is clean and dry.

Install the Plywood: If not already done, lay plywood over the rafters and secure it with nails.

Add House Wrap: Place a layer of house wrap over the plywood to protect against moisture.

Install Foam Boards: Cut the rigid foam boards to size and place them over the house wrap, ensuring a snug fit.

Fiberglass Batts

If you use fiberglass batts, consider combining them with foam insulation for optimal performance. Here’s how to do it:

Fit the Batt: Place fiberglass batts between the rafters, ensuring they are not compacted.

Cover with Rigid Board: After the batts are in place, add rigid board insulation for increased thermal performance.

Final Steps: Installing the Residential Metal Roofing

Once your insulation is in place, it's time to install the metal roof panels. Follow these steps for a successful installation:

Following Manufacturer Instructions

Each metal roofing product has specific installation guidelines. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure correct installation.

Securing the Panels

Begin at the lowest point of your roof and work your way up. Secure the metal panels to the plywood, ensuring they overlap correctly to prevent water ingress.

Finishing Touches

Once all the panels are in place, add any necessary finishing touches, such as trim and flashing, to enhance the roof’s appearance and functionality.

Considerations Before Installing

Before you embark on your metal roofing project, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

Local Building Codes: Check with your local building department to ensure your installation meets all code requirements.

Climate Considerations: Depending on your climate, you may opt for specific insulation or roofing materials that better suit your needs.

Professional Assistance: If you need clarification on any aspect of the installation, consider consulting with a professional. They can offer guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Installing residential metal roofing over plywood is possible and can also be a smart choice for homeowners seeking durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. With proper preparation and attention to detail, you can enjoy all the benefits of metal roofing while enhancing your home's value and comfort.

Are you ready to take the next step in your roofing project? Visit Lastime Exteriors today to explore our services and learn more about energy-efficient roofing solutions tailored to your needs. Let’s create a roof that protects your home and contributes to a sustainable future!

[screenmobile]

How to Maintain a Screened Porch: A Practical Guide for Homeowners in South Bend

A screened porch is one of those home features that just makes life better. It’s a spot where you can sip coffee in the morning, unwind in the evening, and enjoy the fresh air—without worrying about bugs or unpredictable weather. But to keep that little slice of paradise looking good and functioning well, regular maintenance is key.

Now, don’t worry. We’re not talking about back-breaking work. A little attention here and there will keep your porch in top shape year-round. Whether you use it as an outdoor living room, a pet-friendly space, or a cozy reading nook, here’s what you need to know to keep it clean, comfortable, and long-lasting.

Keep the Screens Clean and Damage-Free

The screens are the heart of your porch—after all, they’re what keep the bugs and debris out. A little grime here and there is normal, but dirt buildup can block airflow and make your porch feel stuffy. Worse, small tears can turn into big problems if left unchecked.

How to Clean the Screens Without Damaging Them

Use a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment to remove loose dust and pollen.

Mix warm water with a mild detergent and gently scrub the screens using a soft sponge.

Rinse with a garden hose on low pressure (too much force can stretch or tear the mesh).

For stubborn dirt, a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water works wonders.

What About Small Tears or Holes?

A tiny hole might not seem like a big deal, but mosquitoes and other pests will find their way in. Here’s a quick fix:

For small holes: A drop of clear nail polish or household glue can seal it up.

For larger tears: Use a self-adhesive screen patch or replace the damaged section with a screen repair kit.

Sweep, Mop, and Protect the Flooring

Your screened porch flooring takes a beating from dirt, dust, and foot traffic—especially if you’re in and out all day. Regular cleaning keeps it looking fresh and prevents long-term wear and tear.

Routine Cleaning Steps:

Sweep or use a leaf blower at least once a week to remove debris.

Mop with a gentle cleaner every few weeks (avoid harsh chemicals that could damage wood or composite flooring).

If you have tile or stone, check for cracks and seal them as needed.

Preventing Water Damage and Mold

Even though your porch is covered, humidity and rain can still sneak in. South Bend weather can be unpredictable, so it’s smart to take a few precautions:

Use weatherproof rugs to protect wooden floors from moisture.

Keep an eye on mold—if you notice dark spots, a mixture of water and white vinegar can help keep them at bay.

Ensure proper drainage by checking that water doesn’t pool near the edges of the porch.

Maintain the Porch Structure: Railings, Beams, and Roof

A screened porch isn’t just about the screens—the overall structure needs attention, too. Wood, metal, and vinyl components can all deteriorate over time, so regular inspections will save you from costly repairs later.

Key Areas to Check:

Wood beams and railings – Look for signs of rot, splinters, or termite damage.

Metal components – Rust spots? A little sanding and rust-proof paint will do the trick.

Roof and ceiling – Check for leaks, sagging spots, or signs of water damage.

Seasonal Maintenance Tip

South Bend winters can be tough on porches. Before the snow hits:

Check the roof and support beams for weaknesses.

Ensure gutters are clear so melting snow doesn’t drip onto your porch floor.

Store outdoor furniture cushions indoors to prevent mildew buildup.

Keep the Bugs (and Critters) Out

A screened porch is supposed to be a bug-free oasis, but let’s be honest—those tiny pests are always looking for a way in.

How to Prevent Bugs from Sneaking Inside:

Seal gaps around doors and flooring with weatherstripping.

Keep lights to a minimum—bugs love porch lights, so opt for yellow bug-resistant bulbs.

Use citronella candles or essential oil sprays as natural repellents.

Dealing with Unwanted Visitors

Sometimes, bigger critters (like squirrels or raccoons) get curious. If you spot claw marks or hear rustling, check for loose or torn screens. If an animal has made a habit of visiting, consider installing a door sweep or a sturdier mesh along the lower portion of the porch.

Refresh the Space for Maximum Comfort

A well-maintained screened porch isn’t just about structure—it should feel like an inviting part of your home. Keeping it clean is one thing, but a little decorating and upkeep can make it even better.

Simple Ways to Keep Your Porch Looking Great:

Rotate furniture and cushions to prevent fading from sun exposure.

Add potted plants for a fresh, lively touch (just make sure they don’t attract pests).

Use outdoor-friendly curtains or shades for extra privacy and sun protection.

Install a ceiling fan to keep air circulating during hot summers.

Know When It’s Time for Professional Help

Some maintenance tasks are easy enough to handle yourself, but others? Not so much. If your screens are sagging, your flooring is warping, or you spot signs of structural damage, it’s worth calling in the pros.

Screenmobile South Bend specializes in screened porch repairs and upgrades, making sure your outdoor space stays in top condition. Whether you need a full rescreening, structural fixes, or even a complete porch makeover, they’ve got you covered.

Conclusion

Maintaining a screened porch doesn’t have to feel like a chore. A little regular cleaning, some quick fixes when needed, and seasonal checkups will keep it looking great year after year.

So, whether you’re relaxing with a book, hosting a family get-together, or just enjoying a quiet morning with your coffee, you can do it all without the hassle of bugs or weather damage.

If your porch needs a little extra care—or a full refresh—reach out to Screenmobile South Bend. They’ll help you keep your screened porch in perfect shape, so you can enjoy every season, stress-free.

[wolfliving]

Meanwhile, in Brickland

Cory Doctorow:

Analog companies can raise their prices, or worsen next year's model of their products. *Digital* businesses can *travel back in time* and raise the price of something you already own, but need to pay a "subscription" fee for. They can reach back in time and remove features you've already paid for. They can even go back in time and take away things you already own. The omniflexible, omnipresent digital tether between a device and its manufacturer creates *so many* urges that they can't resist:

Are you one of 4,000,000 people who built "smart home" products from Wink into your walls, ceiling and foundation slab at any time since they started shipping in 2014? Surprise! Now you have to pay a "subscription" for all of those gadgets or they'll *brick your fucking house*:

Did you buy a "Mellow Sous Vide" gadget? Surprise, it now costs $48/year to use that gadget!

Did you buy an Exogen ultrasound device to stimulate bone growth after a fracture? Surprise, it bricks itself after you've used it 343 times! Enjoy your e-waste, Hopalong!

Did you *buy a Ferrari performance sports-car*? Surprise, it bricks itself if it detects "tampering" - and the only way to un-brick it is to connect it to the internet, so you'd better hope it doesn't brick itself deep in an underground parking garage. Oops!

Did you buy a Peloton treadmill? Surprise, your $3,000 "smart" treadmill no longer works in standalone mode - unless you pay $480/year, that treadmill is now a clothes-drying rack:

Did you buy an Epson printer? Surprise! It will brick itself after you print a certain number of pages, *for your own good*, because otherwise its ink-sponges might leak:

Did you get - no, wait for it - *did you get a neural implant?* Surprise. The company's new owners don't want to continue supporting your implant, and they won't let anyone else do so either. So now, *part of your brain* has been bricked:

This is like a lifetime money-back guarantee - *for companies*. Any company that experience's seller's remorse can cancel or alter the transaction, retroactively. It's as if Darth Vader opened an MBA program whose only lesson was *I am altering the deal. Pray I don't alter it further":

Darth Vader has the Force. Corporate enshittifiers have something even more powerful: IP law. Companies can cleverly arrange overlapping layers of IP - anticircumvention, trademark, patent, trade secrecy, terms of service, cybersecurity law, contracts - to criminalize otherwise legal activity, like reverse-engineering, jailbreaking, creating alternative clients or third-party parts:

That means that companies know that they can enshittify to their heart's content without fearing a competitor's disenshittification products. Raise the price of ink all you want, because you've figured out how to criminalize generic ink cartridges:

That's a lesson Spotify took to heart. Aaaallll the way back in 2022, Spotify started selling $90 "Car Thing" tablets - little car-vent-mounted gadgets that made it slightly easier to connect your car stereo to your Spotify account. Now that a suitable interval has gone by, Spotify has decided to remotely brick every one of these solid-state devices, no later than December of 2024:

Now, this may seem like a loss to all those Car Thing owners, who are out $90. But consider this: our descendants are *gaining* thousands of pieces of immortal, infinitely toxic e-waste.

So there's that.

Then there's this: Jason Koebler just published a breakdown of a leaked sSamsung repair contract on 404 Media, revealing how Samsung requires its "independent" repair partners to trick you, abuse you, spy on you, and literally destroy your phone:

First: every time you bring a phone to an independent Samsung repair shop, the company has 24 hours to notify Samsung, providing your name, email, phone number, address, the IMEI of your phone, your warranty status and complaint.

Then, the technician is required to inspect your device for any evidence that you have had it serviced by unauthorized technicians or fixed with third-party replacement parts. If they believe you have failed to act in accord with Samsung's shareholders' interests, the technician is required to *immediately destroy your phone* and notify Samsung.

(This is radioactively illegal, and has been since 1975, when Congress passed the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, which protects your right to use third-party parts:)

Why does Samsung do this? They can't help themselves. It's in their nature.

[northwestofinsanity]

About REO Speedwagon breaking up…

So, earlier this week, an announcement went out on the official REO Speedwagon social media pages that blindsided pretty much every REO fan… including the very small handful of REO fans here on Tumblr.  It’s been a rough week.

I’ve done some digging around for information, and have managed to get somewhat of a blurry picture of what happened from everything I’ve found, so here’s a post to hopefully help the small few of us here make sense of it all.  Due to the length, I’m keeping this under a read-more, and I’m going to try to (aside from where I must clarify) put the timeline of basic information I’ve gathered up top, and analysis down lower, so that those who don’t want to read further don’t have to sort through it. 

Two Disclaimers before jumping into it:

1 -While it is fair that anyone might have their opinions from the information here (as I do, too), this post is not an invitation to hate on the members of the band, and I do not condone the making hate comments toward any of the members on any social media pages with posts on the matter.  At this point, talking smack about Bruce Hall, Kevin Cronin, or Neal Doughty is not what’s going to change the situation -if anything will at all.

2 -For every Facebook post I mention, I do have screenshots, though I will not be posting them in the main post, as some social media screenshots have a way of being removed here.  Most of those pages are publicly viewable even to those not logged in, so I will link to REO’s official page and Bruce Hall’s official page to those who would like to look, and anyone who would rather not look there at all who would still like to see is welcome to request that I DM the screenshots.

Alright, let’s do this, starting with the Basic Timeline of Events:

Starting with the line of perspective given on the official REO Speedwagon Facebook Page (and I believe everything on there is cross-posted to their Instagram for anyone who has that). This Facebook page is viewable without an account. Kevin Cronin makes a lot of posts here himself in a blog-like format, so we can consider posts here as Kevin’s side of the story.

-Back on November 7th of 2023, it was announced by Kevin on social media that Bruce Hall, the longtime bassist of REO Speedwagon, would be off the road and replaced with a substitute to undergo back surgery and the subsequent recovery.  Matt Bissonette, who has been with multiple groups, was the bassist who took over touring duties while REO has been on tour with Train.  As Kevin’s post read, one line stated, “Bruce is our brother. And times like these test us all. We have faith that Bruce’s surgery will be successful, that he will make a complete recovery, and that he will be back to being the hard rocking bassist/singer that we all know. Bruce has our love and support, as we have encouraged him to take all the time he needs to get himself back to 100% strength.”

Very little information has been given there on Bruce since, up until recently, but going back through, I found:

-November 27th, 2023, at the end of Kevin’s “Happy Thanksgiving” journal entry, a PS note stating, “Received a photo of the newly repaired Bruce Hall, sitting up in his hospital bed and smiling. The nurse in the shot was all smiles and hands in the air, reacting favorably to Bruce making progress. I am giving him space, while my thoughts are with Bruce and wishing him a full recovery.”  So by this point, Bruce had undergone his procedure and was doing well in early recovery.

—June 1st, a post from Bruce on the Official REO Facebook Page, mentioning he had been featured on “A Fishing Story With Ronald Green”.  No telling if this was filmed before or after Bruce’s operation.  He does look good in the video, and is on his feet, though not holding anything of substantial weight.

—One of Kevin’s journal entry-like posts on July 12th, 2024, where Kevin was talking about the Milwaukee Summerfest performances, and mentioned, “Bruce told me he would love to be out here, but we both agreed that his health and recovery need to come first.”  So by Kevin’s account here, Bruce was not in condition to play.

……..

Nothing further came on the REO Speedwagon page until the recent unfolding of events within the last week -so let’s jump over to Bruce’s official Facebook page, Bruce Hall of REO Speedwagon, (also viewable without an account) and backtrack to get his side of the story:

-On November 7th, 2023, Bruce made his own announcement letting fans know he would be off the road, stating that he had been powering through a “traumatic back injury” for quite some time and was unable to do so any longer.  He assured fans that REO had a plan to find a good substitute while he was away.

-On November 20th, Bruce’s wife, Kimmie, made a post saying that Bruce had his surgery that morning.  She assured that “Everything went really well”, and that Bruce had “already gotten up and walked a couple of steps”.

-On December 10th, Bruce posted his first picture of himself with his then newborn grandchild.  He looks a bit rough (rightfully so), and is sitting on a couch, so unsure how steady he was at this time, but he was at home in recovery.  In his post, he stated “My surgery was a huge success, and I’m getting better everyday.” 

[I’m not going to list every one of Bruce’s posts, because there were a lot while he was home in recovery, but over the next month or so, there were several around the Holidays where Bruce was with his family, back on his feet and looking better, and even a few where Neal Doughty was visiting with him]

-Worth mentioning, on January 27th of 2024, Bruce mentioned in a post that he had been working on bass tracks for an album his daughter was recording over the last couple of days.  A post came the next day featuring a video of Bruce playing bass, if sitting down and leaned over, but playing as great as usual for him.

[Multiple posts continued of Bruce living life in recovery, including a trip to Disney World with his wife in February, his feature on Ronald Green’s fishing show in March, confirming that it was filmed at that time, and another family gathering with the Doughty’s in early April]

-On April 8th, Bruce made a post with pictures of an REO Speedwagon Make-A-Wish Benefit show, in which he did come onstage for one song and perform.  He excitedly mentions this as the first time he had performed since October.  Pictures show him playing standing up, if bent over.  (Very strangely, there are no posts about this show on the REO Facebook page, when they are typically very prolific with posts made about benefit shows).  The day prior, the 7th, Bruce had a video featuring him and Neal Doughty at soundcheck (Neal had also shown up and was playing Piano for “Can’t Fight This Feeling”)

[More posts follow, including ones where Bruce posted Facebook-generated “memory” posts of pictures with him performing with Kevin and Dave, stating how much he misses this, and pictures of being out and about fishing and golfing.]

On June 14th, Bruce made the first post directly addressing the length of his time absent, accompanied by a picture of playing bass while sitting down.  Within his statement, the most notable information is as follows: “I'm feeling better every day and have been cleared by my doctor to perform.  If it were up to just me, I'd be there rocking tonight...but it's unfortunately not.  The consensus feeling is that I don't have good enough posture to perform at the level expected by our fans.”  Amid assurances he was still undergoing physical therapy and training to continue recovery, he added, “Trust me, I have no intention of retiring or walking away from the band I have loved for almost 50 years.  I would never ever walk away.”

[More generalized Bruce living life and being physically active in recovery follow]

On September 5th, Bruce made a post with a picture of his wife that seems a bit cryptic, stating that he appreciates the support of fans and misses them.  It seems this coincided with an article that had come out on September 3rd by Ultimate Classic Rock, regarding Bruce’s absence, titled “Is Bad Posture Keeping REO Speedwagon’s Bruce Hall Off The Road?”  My guess is this is what began stirring up a lot of talk from fans, and led to the official statement eventually being made, and Bruce was answering to concern given by fans who might not have been following his page to be aware of his condition until this time.  Now, Ultimate Classic Rock is somewhat of a clickbait site (there’s no other way to get around putting it as such), and the article was quoting information from Bruce’s post made back in July, but in this case, it is true to Bruce’s post.  Anyone who is trying to avoid Facebook who would like to see it can find it here.

This ends anything relevant on any Facebook page up until everything unfolded within the last week, so the next part of the timeline that follows, I’m going to mix posts from the REO Speedwagon Facebook Page and Bruce’s page in chronological order, rather than separating them out.  I will also attempt to hot link the individual posts to the dates here (Tumblr tends to limit how many of these I can do, which is why I have saved that for the most pertinent posts).

-On September 14th, 2024, on the REO Speedwagon Facebook Page, Kevin made an announcement entry along with a performance video regarding the end of the Summer Road Trip Tour, and expressing gratitude for the good touring partners Train have been.  He then addressed REO Speedwagon having to miss the last two shows of the tour, revealing that he had emergency surgery, and suggested that he was making this post from the hospital.  Kevin then went on to leave this somewhat cryptic message, “I have so much more life to live, and have re-examined what I want to do with the rest of my time here, and who I want to be surrounded by while I do it. I need to be lifted by those around me, and in return, to lift them. I feel excited at the prospect of creating and playing the best music I have in me, with the best artists, musicians, and people who will have me.”

Many comments were left on the September 14th post, requesting clarification on what Kevin meant about this, as well as asking “What about Bruce?  When will he be back?”  

One person made a comment claiming that they had privately spoken to Kevin on Facebook, and that Kevin had said that Bruce had quit the band on his own.  Bruce himself came into the comments on his verified account to say that Kevin does not have his own Facebook page, and that it was a fake imposter account whom that person had spoken with, warning to look for blue checkmarks after the names.  In his first of two comments clarifying this, he noted, “I would NEVER leave the band.”  This was less than two days before major news came to light.

The speculation on this post inevitably led to the next…

-On September 16th, an announcement came up on the REO Speedwagon Facebook Page that most REO fans have seen by now -if not on the band’s socials, by many news articles featuring it.  This one was worded as if written by management.  It stated that if it were up to Bruce alone, Bruce would be back to touring, but “it’s not up to just him”, and stated that there was a consensus that Bruce could not perform up to expected standards.  It also stated that Kevin had never had any intentions of leaving the band, but then cited irreconcilable differences between Bruce and Kevin as cause that REO Speedwagon will stop touring at the end of this year.

Comments were disabled on this post, as well as the next couple that followed.  Many people still shared this post and commented on their own pages

—Bruce shared the post on his own page, expressing that he is heartbroken that it has ended this way, that he in no way expected this, and that he and Neal did everything to try and keep the band going after his recovery. (Should be noted that while Neal has retired from touring, he is still very much a member of the band with some background control).  Many fans commented on Bruce’s shared post, expressing anger toward Kevin, and some suggested that Bruce and Neal should find a singer who can do justice to Kevin’s voice, as well as a strong guitarist who can back them.  (To the effect of “Do what Journey did”, etc).  Bruce has said over and over again in responses to those comments that he believes Kevin is the voice of REO and that he will not tour as REO without Kevin, that he is protecting the legacy of the band and the wishes of Alan, Neal, and Gary’s family.  (Also, we don’t know if there’s some contractual agreement between Neal, Bruce, and Kevin as owning members where it’s a tiebreak situation, and Kevin can’t continue permanently by himself, and if Bruce and Neal refuse to do this.)  Even though he has been deemed healthy and ready to return by his doctor, he has said that if Kevin would rather “go solo”, he cannot stop him from doing so.  He has suggested through these comments that despite being upset, he does not want anybody talking disrespectfully about Kevin in his comments.

—A share that I will not be linking, but I have a screenshot of that anyone may request by DM, Eric Richrath, the son of late classic era guitarist, Gary Richrath, whom in the past has occasionally joined REO onstage for a couple of songs, shared the post, making some scathing comments about his feelings on the situation.  For the sake of keeping this part of the post neutral, and for the sake of his dignity, I will not repeat publicly what he said about Kevin.  The relevant point he makes is that he believes this is a sad way for the band to have gone out, that fans and the members deserved at least some proper farewell shows, and brought up the good point that Alan Gratzer and Neal Doughty may have wanted the opportunity to rejoin the band for a couple of songs at said shows to send off the band they founded in a good way.

��………………………………

Alright… phew.  That was already a lot.  Now, discussion, analysis, if anyone wishes to continue further:

From what I can understand from all this, is technically, Bruce is medically cleared to travel and perform, but he is under certain limits as to how he is allowed to perform.  For the sake of putting on a good show, is the show diminished somewhat if Bruce can’t jump around as he has in the past, or if he’s required to play sitting down for part of the show?  To a point, yes… However, this has been done before.  Members of various bands have sustained injuries before and have had to do this, and some found their ways to still make it fun.  (Actually, more recently, Bruce posted a throwback picture performing onstage, where Kevin was sitting down after injuring his foot, so this isn’t the first time REO has dealt with something like this… in the comments, when asked about Neal’s stance, Bruce stated that Neal is his best friend, and that Neal is “100% in [his] corner”).

And honestly, none of our aging rockers are able to jump around the way they used to.  That’s life, that’s fair whether anyone likes it or not, and that’s what’s going to happen.  Sure, I have more fun when I watch live videos of -say, let me pick on Heart, and compare just the videos from even the late 2000s/early 2010s to now.  Nancy Wilson isn’t kicking and jumping as high as she did less than a decade ago, but I still love her.  And she’s 70 -it’s lucky she was still doing that as long as she was, and that she can still kick at all.  I don’t see any reason to view Bruce any differently.  Now, maybe not ideal to continue for years like that, but for the sake of having some official farewell shows here and there, as many fans, and Gary’s son have suggested they would have liked to have, it would have probably been feasible.  It is worth mentioning that traveling for multiple shows in close proximity can be a little harder on the body (it’s ultimately why Neal chose to retire even though he can still play fine).  Bruce has traveled, per the timeline posts I went through, though there could be some valid risk.  Nobody’s necessarily saying that farewell shows would have to be close together, though -one a month in different locations could limit the toll of the traveling.

And then, the side of the issue with Kevin.  My intent here is to put this into an objective viewpoint, because some people who know me well may know I have some opinions about what happened in the past with Gary, and I’m not alone in that among REO fans -and I have seen it brought up in comments on Facebook.  Which is fair, and I especially find it fair for Eric Richrath to leave the comments on his share he did, after he had to witness the impact of that fallout on his father -but let’s put the situation with Gary aside and look at this as an isolated incident, because this is about Kevin and Bruce.  And while I’m not here to defend Kevin, I’m also not here to trash talk him -and I would discourage anyone who has decided to side against him to not go wild with negative comments, as Bruce’s Facebook comments have made it abundantly clear, he doesn’t want this.

Is it kind of cruddy for Kevin to just spring this on everyone suddenly the moment he decides he wants to do something else?  Yeah!  Could he have handled this better, and would it have been more fair of him to just agree to stick around to do even just a couple of official farewell shows?  Probably so.  But the reality is, while Kevin does share a great deal of what goes on in his life on REO’s official pages, there’s a lot we still don’t know about, because we don’t know Kevin.  We do know he recently had emergency surgery.  We don’t know what for.  We don’t know what’s going on in his life or his true health status, or whatever news he’s potentially been given.  Apparently, based on Bruce’s replies mentioning “going solo”, he’s decided he’s got other things he wants to do, and I hate saying it (because it breaks my heart), but we’re not going to have these guys around forever.  So again, while it would have been great for Kevin to stick with it for a farewell tour even just a week long, he’s got a need to do something else, and the reality is, there’s only but so much time he’s going to have to make that happen.  If that’s what he’s choosing to do with the remaining time he has where he is still able to perform, that’s a choice that has understandable and respectable merits, regardless of how much there might be to disagree over.

My advice to fans who have chosen to pick sides in this situation?  If you’ve sided with Kevin, keep your eyes out for whatever he’s going to do next.  It won’t be REO, but maybe it might just be something worthwhile -so give him a chance.  If you’ve sided with Bruce, and you feel the need to say anything, go show him some love on any of his socials, but please keep comments expressing frustration toward Kevin to yourself or to your own private posts away from him.  I cannot stress this enough (I’ll say it again), Bruce has politely suggested that he does not want that.  I imagine comments of such on his socials at this point are only serving to rub this in his face.  I can also imagine that if Kevin can see any comments like that, it’s only serving to fuel whatever animosity he might feel toward Bruce right now, and it’s making any small chance of reconciliation in the future smaller.  So please don’t do this. 

And for those neutral in the situation, let’s just stand back and watch this situation.  Give Kevin a chance, show Bruce some love…  Maybe Kevin will get whatever he feels he needs to do out of his system and will rethink things and decide maybe he wants to get together again for some farewells (situations in the past -including the fallout with Gary -have told that he doesn’t go back and change his mind after making a big change like this, but who knows… time will tell).  Hopefully, everyone will make good choices, and as the shock settles, “irreconcilable differences” may seem a bit less than they were in the moment.  We can only love these guys while we’ve still got them.  This situation is hard, and nasty thoughts aren’t going to make it any easier.  We know what’s said before every live performance of “Ridin’ the Storm Out”, and I think it holds true here as we process all this.

[mysteryshoptls]

SR Ortho Shroud - Rabbit Gear Vignette

"The Rabbit Imitation Test"

[Clock Town – Race Venue]

Ortho: YAY! WE WON THE RABBIT RUN RACE!

Silver: Ortho, is your body alright after falling into those pitfall traps?

Ortho: Yep. I've done the emergency maintenance on all damaged parts already.

Silver: I see. Well, don't overextend yourself.

Ortho: I have no problem just moving around normally. Thanks for your concern, Silver-san.

Ortho: Since I entered the race without prior planning, I was able to gather a lot of data on what functions I lacked…

Ortho: So when I get back to campus, I'll upgrade my Rabbit Gear right away!

[Ignihyde Dorm – Ortho's Room]

―One week later

Ortho: Oookay. Assembly complete!

Ortho: I repaired all broken parts, so all the Rabbit Gear specs should be vastly improved now.

Ortho: I changed the heavy monocoque body into a ladder frame chassis, so that improved my overall weight.

Ortho: I completely restructured the basic design from the ground up, and restored the anti-gravity system that I had removed.

Ortho: Alright, time to retrofit it and test it out.

[Sports Field]

Ortho: Prototype Rabbit Gear Mk-II activated. All systems green.

Ortho: Starting Performance Test!

Ortho: High-speed mobility…

[tup tup! tup tup!]

Ortho: Satisfactory. Continuing on to Flight…

[ZOOM!]

Ortho: Satisfactory. Landing…

[thup]

Ortho: Satisfactory. Next...

Ortho: Fire the laser!

[BOOOOM!!]

Ortho: The laser power is also satisfactory.

Ortho: Good. All the standard functions are working perfectly.

Ortho: Alright then, it's time for the big one… The Rabbit Imitation Test. First, I have to turn off the flight feature.

Ortho: Perfect. After all, the greatest feature of this Rabbit Gear is that it should imitate a real rabbit.

Ortho: Walking…

[tup tup…]

Ortho: Satisfactory. Movement…

[hop! hop!]

Ortho: Satisfactory. Hopping…

[jump!]

Ortho: Satisfactory.

Ortho: …Hmmm.

Ortho: Everything moved smoothly, and is perfectly stable. The test results are all satisfactory.

Ortho: But… I feel like something's still missing.

Ortho: This Rabbit Gear I designed should be able to become more rabbit-like.

Ortho: What can I do to make it even more like a real rabbit?

[Sports Field]

Ortho: What can I do to make it even more like a real rabbit?

Silver: Is that you there, Ortho?

Ortho: Ah, Silver-san.

Silver: You seem to be wearing your Rabbit Gear. The sight of you in that outfit reminds me of our trip.

Ortho: The shopping we did, the festival and race… That was real fun, huh.

Silver: Yeah. However, why are you wearing your Rabbit Gear here, on campus?

Ortho: Since I finished repairing every part of the Rabbit Gear that broke during the race, I was just doing a function test.

Silver: I see. Has it returned to normal?

Ortho: Yep. And I didn't just fix it, but I overhauled its performance completely.

Ortho: But… I feel like it's still missing the proper rabbit-like characteristics, which is the most crucial aspect of the Rabbit Gear.

Ortho: I don't know what I should do…

Silver: …Ortho, I assume you haven't seen many wild rabbits up close, have you?

Ortho: I've never seen one personally… But I've gathered data on them from books and the internet. I've also studied a lot of rabbit videos.

Silver: I see. You put in a ton of effort.

Silver: However, there are often differences in seeing the real thing and merely reading about it. The first time I left Briar Valley, there were many things that were new to me as well.

Silver: If you see a real rabbit, you may discover something that helps.

Ortho: Oh, I see. You do have a point, Silver-san. But, what can I do to even meet a real live rabbit?

Silver: In the woods behind the campus, there are many wild rabbits.

Silver: I've had the opportunity to interact with rabbits much in my past. I may be able to be of help. Come with me.

Ortho: Yay! Thanks, Silver-san.

[Woods Behind Campus]

Ortho: We're here in the woods behind the campus, but… Now what?

Silver: If we just wait here, the rabbits should start to make their appearance.

Ortho: Eh, really!? But I read in my books that rabbits are really cautious…

Wild Rabbit: [rustle]

Ortho: Heat source detected. What's that over there…? A rabbit!

Ortho: And it's coming over here! I wonder why.

Silver: I don't really understand why, but… Animals often like to approach me.

Ortho: There's two, three… And more! WOW!

Wild Rabbit: [rustle, rustle]

Ortho: Ah, they ran away.

Silver: They must have been frightened by your loud voice.

Wild Rabbit: [shup]

Silver: That rabbit over there is standing up on its hindlegs and looking over at us.

Silver: It's vigilantly watching us. With its ears perked up like that, it's warily listening for any sounds we make.

Ortho: Okay, I see. Maybe if I move around like that, I'll seem more like a rabbit.

Ortho: Alright, I'm gonna try that.

Ortho: [shup!]

Silver: Yeah. You look just like it.

Wild Rabbit: [pitter, patter]

Silver: It came up to me. I'll pat its head.

Wild Rabbit: [hop! hop! hop!]

Silver: And when it's happy, it hops like this.

Ortho: Like this…? [hop! hop! hop!]

Silver: When you want to run away like they did earlier, you want to quickly make a big jump.

Ortho: Simulating an enemy attack, and… Run upon first contact! [JUMP, JUMP!!!]

Wild Rabbit: [runs in circles]

Ortho: Ah. The rabbit is running in circles around you.

Silver: This looks to be how they move when they want to play.

Ortho: It's a motion to play, okay. [runs in circles]

Wild Rabbit: [thump!]

Silver: When it kicks the ground with its hindlegs that forcefully, it must be angry.

Silver: Perhaps it’s in a bad mood, since I am not playing with it.

Ortho: So it's like its Rage Meter maxed out. [THUMP! THUMP!]

Silver: How is it? Are you starting to understand?

Ortho: Yeah. When I get to see the actual thing shown in front of me, it's so much easier to get!

Ortho: When the motion is linked to a specific emotion, I feel like I'm able to reproduce it so much better.

Ortho: Hey, Silver-san. Teach me about its other actions. The more data I can store, the more I'll be able to put to good use!

Silver: Got it. Next is…

[Ramshackle Dorm]

The next day

Ortho: When relaxing, I lay on my side and kick out my legs.

[lounges about]

Ortho: When I'm in a good mood, I hop around.

[hop! hop! hop! hop!]

Everyone: OOOOOOOOOH!!

Ortho: Hey, everyone, what do you think of my updated Rabbit Gear Mk-II?

Deuce: You seem to have copied a lot of actual rabbit movements. That's amazing.

Epel: Back when I was a kid, I took care of rabbits, and you're acting just like them!

1. You can do so many things!

Ortho: Yep. I've added a ton of different possible variations in motion.

2. You're just like a real rabbit!

Ortho: Yay! You saying that makes all the testing worth it.

Ortho: Thanks to Silver-san, I was able to greatly improve my Rabbit Gear. Thank you!

Silver: It wasn't anything much. Your desire and motivation was just strong enough. That's all.

Deuce: …Hey, Ortho. Why did you fix the Rabbit Gear in the first place, when you're not going to use it anymore?

Ortho: Well, obviously, so I can wear it during next year's White Rabbit Festival.

Deuce: Eh!? Are you going to come to Clock Town next year too? I guess you really liked the festival.

Ortho: Yep. And let's all win the Rabbit Run Race next year, too!

Epel: EH, ALL OF US!? You mean I have to wear that outfit again…!?

Grim: Then, next time, I'm gonna race too! I'll be the anchor leg of the relay and really stand out!

Ortho: Ehh! I want to be the anchor next time!

Silver: I look forward to next year, Ortho.

Ortho: Yeah. I'll completely smash through all the traps and win it hands down!

Requested by Anonymous.

[whiteheartlight]

some disabilities that I think could exist in the Bionicle universe for character and world-building reasons:

under-active cooling systems that lead to fatigue and illness. these beings have to limit their physical activity or they will overheat and could cause serious damage to their other internal systems. some of them may go live in Ko-Matoran districts or other cold areas even if they wouldn't live there traditionally. Matoran with this condition may be more likely to use crabs or small personal vehicles to get around

since I headcanon that most beings are mass-printed or otherwise mass-produced, you can occasionally find someone who was simply printed wrong in some way, a production line error causing a deformity. some of these deformities would have been weeded out by quality control before everyone gained sentience, but not all

memory loss seems to be a built-in feature for many beings in the MU. some beings have this to an even greater degree than others, however, and they might lose their memories very frequently or even lack the ability to form memories

if a Toa is interrupted while in the middle of passing his power on to another Toa and becoming a Turaga, the new Toa can become trapped halfway between Matoran and Toa, sometimes not reaching the typical height or physical power of an average Toa, and possibly having limited control of their elemental powers

the different culture of the MU would create different possible mental illnesses. for instance, some Matoran could become overly-obsessed with the ideals of duty to the point that they almost seem at times to have lost their sentience again and only be capable of work. the existence of physic powers also means that there are a lot of ways in which someone's mind could be damaged by psionic powers like repeated hypnotism, confusion, or memory tampering

not to mention all the different ways mutation could cause disabilities and chronic pain

disabilities related to control over powers: these could be particularly common in Skakdi, who are given unprecedented and experimental powers by Spiriah. many Skakdi are permanently damaged by his experiments and may have extremely faulty control of their abilities

if the glass or plastic that makes up the eyepiece is damaged, that can be replaced, but if the wiring that connects the eyes to the brain is damaged, someone could have blindness or vision loss. the same goes for a lot of parts - maybe an audio receptor can be removed and replaced, but if the internal systems are damaged, it might not be possible to replace or repair those parts. it's similar to humans in that way

there could also be intellectual or cognitive disabilities similar to those of humans

damaged joints that have to be permanently locked or braced so they will not break... looking at you, lime-greens

I also think that there are already disabilities in the text! We know there's a concept of muteness because the Makuta wonder if Vamprah has mutism or if he chooses not to speak, there's the concept of being "cross-wired," and the Rahaga, Zaktan, and Nidhiki's mutations alter their powers and change their physical abilities in ways meant to be debilitating and horrifying. we have references to insanity, broken arms, amnesia, amputees, and more.

feel free to add on!

[misscrazyfangirl321]

android is also the local tech expert, so when they start to malfunction they have to talk their human friends through how to repair them, even though the procedure is painful?

OOOOO

"There's a panel-" Speech. Talking. Unexpectedly difficult. Something is wrong. Wrong. Malfunctioned. Glitching. "On my back. On the left side." Left? Process. Repeat. Clarify. "Right side."

"Listen, I don't know about this." Scared. The human is scared. (So am I. Another glitch. Another malfunction. Another failing.) "Maybe we should wait until Frankie gets back."

Frankie Hills. Mechanic. Fifteen. Expert. This human is not an expert. He's new; his name isn't in my database yet. But he's not a mechanic. I know that; he told me. "No time. Glitching. Crashing. Odds of successful repair... Dropping."

This doesn't make him calmer. His hands are shaking, which is bad. Wrong. He's glitching. (But humans don't glitch. They just exist. Why can't I just exist?) I search my database, ignoring the strain on my processor. If I'm not careful, I'll overheat, but he'll never get anywhere without my help.

Comfort words. Excellent. "It will be-be okay." Repeating. Echoing. I'm overloading my system. Audio quality is suffering. "I believe in you."

An odd thing: belief. I don't know what it means. But I know I'm broken, and he's the only one who can fix me. I need him to fix me, before it's too late.

In any case, the words seem to assure him. His features shift. Change. The word comes to my processing center unbidden: Soften. He relaxes, and clears his throat. "Left panel?"

"Right." Then, when he starts to reach, I clarify, "Right panel. Right side. Not correct. Right."

This gives him pause, but only briefly. Then he reaches again, this time for the right (right, correct, direction) panel. When he twists the screwdriver, my sensors burn in protest, and I cannot stop a noise from slipping out. Unfortunate; it frightens him.

"Did I hurt you?"

Hurt: to cause pain. My sensors are not for pain; they serve as alarms for things that pose a threat. They tell me if things are too hot, too cold, subject to cause harm to my hardware or programming. It sends a warning through my wires; I find it unpleasant, but that does not make it pain.

My processor is too close to overheating; I cannot explain all of this. "Yes." It falls within the parameters of truth the Organization has defined for me. "Remove the panel."

"But if it's going to hurt you-"

"It must be removed. There is no other way to repair me."

He makes a noise of his own: a groan, a human sound for pain. But why is he in pain? He isn't; he hurts for me. Hurts because I suffer. Still, though, he sets to work, removing the panel. This time, when noises escape, he does not falter.

"Now what?"

"There are two wires: red and green."

"You have a lot more wires than that back here."

His voice has changed. Taken on a sound: a drawl. So this is sarcasm, then. A human attempt at humor, to make me feel more relaxed (or perhaps, to make him feel more relaxed).

"Those do not matter. Find the red and green wires."

He makes another noise, similar to the grunt, but lighter. Louder. I identify it as laughter; he thinks I've made a joke in turn. Very well.

"Okay, got 'em. What do I do?"

This will be unpleasant. I know this. These wires are not meant to be exposed, so they're connected to powerful sensors. When he does what he must, it will overwhelm my system. But it has to happen.

"Wait until I finish speaking. Disconnect both wires, and insert the yellow drive on the table into the slot behind those wires. Then, reconnect the wires. Make sure you do not cross them."

He waits five seconds-I count-to ensure that I'm done talking. I've encountered droids far less compliant than him. Then, he asks, "What happens if I cross the wires?"

The sensation I experience isn't truly fear; it's simply programming, a jolt of warning, an attempt to preserve data. I'm more useful when I have all of my data, after all. Still, I sound unsteady even to myself when I reply, "System reboot."

Wiping me. Erasing me forever. I would still be here, but not here. Not me. Something else. Someone else. But me. I don't want to think about this; it will definitely overwhelm my processors.

"I'm done speaking," I inform him, because he still hasn't continued the procedure.

"Right, just, uh... Brace yourself." There is nothing to brace myself against; there is nothing to prepare me for this.

"I will not be able to guide you any longer," I warn, and he hesitates. Humans have something called intuition, and I suspect right now that his is activating, inferring from the data I've provided that this will not be a good experience for me. It will, however, be a necessary one.

He knows. Clears his throat. "Okay. Here goes nothing."

A strange thing, something humans often say before things which are most definitely not nothing. A human contradiction; they have many.

Then, all programs running in my mind cease, replaced only with sensor alerts, warnings, jolts- (it hurts-)

Processing fails.

-

I've been recharged. It isn't truly waking up, but that's what humans call it, when I shift from powered down to powered up. All of my sensors are operating at normal levels, not detecting any negative input.

And all of my data is in-tact.

The man is sitting by my charging stall, watching me with an odd look on his face. I run it through my processors (running smoothly now, easily able to take in the new information): It is exhaustion. While I have been recharging, he has not done the same. Curious.

"You require sleep. My calculations indicate that your performance will be diminished by more than-"

"You're okay!" He interrupts me, and-as per my programming-I cease imparting information. Then he stands, reaching over and wrapping his arms around me.

A hug; I don't need to check my database for that. I've observed it before, frequently. It's strange, finally experiencing it. My sensors exist for detecting threats, but the pressure is too light to register as a threat. It does register, though; awareness without warning. It's... Not unpleasant.

"You performed the procedure adequately," I inform him, because my records indicate that moments of embracing call for phrases of sentiment.

He laughs, again. That's not the correct response to sentiment; maybe I didn't do it right. But he hugs me again-more tightly, but still not tight enough to send a warning-before releasing me.

"Thanks for talking me through it," he says.

Odd, to thank me for something that benefitted me more than him. Programming and experience both tell me, however, that there is only one response he's seeking.

"You're welcome."

[sepublic]

The Grapple Beam's in-universe chronology is interesting to me; It was first introduced in Super Metroid as the precursor to the Space Jump. Then we got Metroid Prime, which is modeled after Super, and has the Grapple Beam. Prime takes place before Super, hence Space Pirates having Metroids in their possession; And that's worth noting is that the Grapple Beam isn't something Samus first finds on Tallon IV. No, it's something she already has when she begins the game, and then regains while exploring the planet.

Meaning before Prime, she must've gotten the Grapple Beam; But the only game before that is Zero Mission, where it's completely absent. And that raises an interesting question, a story possibility regarding the circumstances in which Samus acquired the Grapple Beam before responding to the Frigate Orpheon's distress call. In a Metroid show, this would have to be explored/acknowledged.

In particular, I have to consider how Samus gains abilities within this hypothetical Metroid pitch; My idea is to avoid the 'Samus loses all her abilities and has to regain them' bit as much as I can. It makes sense from a gameplay perspective, but from a storytelling one, we can afford to play fast and loose here.

With Fusion, it makes perfect sense to retain the loss of her abilities; The story itself, the tone, is centered around Samus being set back to square one, being outpaced by the SA-X which still has her abilities, all that stuff. So for the Fusion arc it's mandatory, and makes sense with Samus having chunks of her Power Suit containing those upgrades removed, before they're mutated into the aforementioned SA-X.

Samus Returns won't have this; It's not relevant, it's not needed, it's never even addressed or explained. She's just at square one from the start. Other M, for its infamy, DID at least try to address the repetition with the 'authorization' bit, which was its way of approaching that gameplay trope from a different angle; A horrible angle, but I think that Doylist consideration is definitely necessary. Not that it justifies certain scenes revolving around the authorization issue, but alas...

Prime is an interesting case, since it marks the first moment in the timeline where Samus loses her abilities, and it's a hilariously mundane moment too; She hits a wall because of an explosion and it just resets her entire Power Suit. For a show, that won't happen... Losing her abilities, at least.

I do want to pay homage to that trope by trying to mix things up a bit, esp since we're approaching this from a storytelling and not a gameplay perspective now. So instead of losing her abilities, Samus' suit retains every feature but has difficulty trying to select the correct upgrade. So for example, Samus might try to use the Ice Beam, only to hit something with the Grapple Beam instead; Similarly, she might go for a Morph Ball bomb, only to use a Power Bomb instead.

There's opportunity for humor, and it's like Samus losing her abilities, but still different; This is resolved when on Tallon IV, Samus finds some leftover Chozo tech she uses to repair her Power Suit's nervous system, meaning when she means to use X upgrade, she uses X upgrade. But there's a good chance I'll just leave this bit out, or save it for another arc.

Likewise, I'm taking into account the abilities' chronology here; With Fusion being the exception, the first time Samus encounters an ability within the games' chronology is the first time she encounters it within the show. So Samus gets the Speed Booster during the Zero Mission arc, even if it technically debuted in Super Metroid. She doesn't get another Speed Booster until Fusion, where she defeats Serris-X and absorbs its Core-X. Samus doesn't get the X-ray visor in Zero Mission, because its first chronological appearance is in Prime.

I think there's storytelling potential to seeing Samus discover and use each upgrade; It could be a way to mix up her adventures within an arc by seeing how Samus adjusts to and makes use of this ability in creative ways. So when she gets her first upgrade, the Morph Ball, we see how Samus exploits it a lot. Individual upgrades for Samus act like story beats, and introduce new action sequences with them; Individual episodes can partially revolve around Samus acquiring a certain upgrade.

Of course, this means that when Samus starts off in the first season of the show, all she has is the power beam and that's it. That is... until we remember the Prime games, as well as Mercury Steam's own addition.

Things like the Scan Visor and Melee Counter are always with Samus, no matter what; They're as integral to her as the power beam, and are never shown being acquired. And a Metroid show, I feel, should smooth the differences between the 2D and Prime games, and make both worlds and their aesthetics and mechanics feel fully-integrated from the start.

So consider, the Mimicuria from the manga; It attacks Chairman Keaton prior to Samus' Zero Mission, but she defeats it anyway. Keep in mind she's already a famous bounty hunter, despite not having access to any of her upgrades... But at the same time, Samus is still a skilled warrior, she wears a durable Power Suit with Energy Tanks to protect her; Her arm cannon has infinite ammo, and as mentioned before, she has the Scan Visor.

The Mimicuria is a dangerous bioweapon, but Samus uses her Scan Visor to lay out its anatomy to the audience; The Scan Visor has storytelling potential to highlight the monster of the week, kind of like how in Pokemon or other shows, there's cutaways providing lore on certain tidbits. When Samus scans a creature, things stop to show a diagram as the suit explains to Samus/the audience everything to know.

It singles in on the Mimicuria's weak points, guiding Samus on attacking them. So in addition to her skills and the base Power Suit still being pretty advanced by Federation standards, the Scan Visor is a powerful asset as well; The suit has an extensive database, and they say knowing is half the battle. It helps Samus immediately dissect enemies and figure out solutions, and analyze the environment around her in order to use it.

Pyonchi might raise suspicions towards the disguised Mimicuria, but Samus' Scan Visor could be used to confirm Pyonchi's bad vibes; It being Chozo tech might make it a lot more efficient than most scanners within the setting. Again, this adds to the important distinction that Samus isn't just a badass because of her tools, but because she's smart and knowledgable and creative, making good use of everything; Someone else in her place would easily blunder.

When the Mimicuria lunges, Samus' shots not only injure it, but divert its attacking limbs, the force halting jabs in place. And here we see the physicality to Samus, emphasized by Mercury Steam; She's able to wrangle the monster, and on its last legs, it gets frustrated and reckless, leaving itself wide open as Samus baits it, grounding her feet. It lunges, making a clicking noise identical to the melee counter cues in the Mercury Steam games; Otherwise, such a sound effect is going to be absent for the rest of the show's enemies, because it makes little sense from an in-universe perspective.

Samus melee counters the Mimicuria, which just like in the games, leads to a cinematic, and creates an opening for Samus to shoot the Mimicuria in a vulnerable spot, finishing the creature off. But per her professionalism, she still keeps shooting at it, charring its body to a crisp, just to be safe; It's a bioweapon, it was engineered to carry out a mission. Who knows just how much damage this thing could be programmed to survive? The Federation does not want a horror movie moment where the villain gets up anyway after 'dying'.

As I discuss the Mimicuria scene, a part of me wonders if I should just include the Grapple Beam as part of Samus' arsenal from the very start, to compliment her physicality; The Grapple Beam is one of my favorite upgrades, at least from a fight scene perspective; It has a lot of potential for versatility in how it lets Samus interact with the environment in a more hands-on way, incorporating melee combat and the like to bring things to her, or herself to things, grapple (haha) enemies' limbs and the like, etc.

I think it could make sense, since at the beginning, Samus doesn't have much in terms of technology, so her emphasis would be on her physical combat skills, which the Grapple Beam would compliment. It's much more effective in the show, being able to grapple any object, whereas this is nerfed for obviously gameplay purposes within the games themselves.

I should also address Dread; I definitely want to show off all three phases of the Dread suit in the show, but that can only happen if Samus loses her Varia upgrade. Now it's possible I could just do things differently, have her start off with the standard blue Dread suit... But that does go at odds with the Fusion suit ending with the orange Varia coloration, which then transitions to the orange Dread Varia suit. The explanation could be that the musculature that grows over is blue, before becoming orange...

But there's also the 'Physical Amnesia' thing that Raven Beak makes up. For the Zero Mission arc, Samus knows about her various Chozo upgrades before returning to Zebes; The idea is that in their warrior days, the Chozo had a rite of passage where upgrades would be hidden throughout a natural environment, for a young warrior to find and complete their arsenal with; The challenge is in finding these upgrades, while surviving all the hazards of this environment. Like the game designers, the Chozo in charge of this ritual might intend for certain upgrades to only be accessible once another upgrade is acquired; They liked puzzles, even as violent conquerors.

This is what was planned for Samus when she returned from her time with the Federation, but then Mother Brain ruined those plans; But Samus knew what to expect beforehand, she had what was essentially her To-Do list, and was especially banking on the Missiles and Ice Beam to help against the Metroids when she returned. Samus returning to Zebes was her finally getting to complete that coming-of-age she was made to put off for so long.

ZDR is a Chozo planet, and the Mawkin would've still been practicing rituals like this because they were still warriors. So given Dread's plot of Raven Beak attempting to mold Samus into his heir and apprentice, and awaken her Metroid DNA... I can see him removing her upgrades within the show, in order to force Samus to redo that trial all over again, for symbolic and practical purposes; Because she did her Thoha trial, now it's time for Samus to do her Mawkin trial and embrace that aspect of her heritage too.

The Dread arc is about Samus coming to terms with the Chozo's violent past, seeing a different side of them than before; So it makes sense it would also reflect, in a darker way, the scavenger hunt she did in Zero Mission. And while I can't remember if it was explicitly stated, I think there is an implication that the EMMIs' abilities weren't programmed by Exelion; They had Chozo abilities because Raven Beak transferred Samus' upgrades to them, which is why she gets them back after defeating an EMMI.

In other words, it's like how Samus loses her abilities to the Ing, and then has to regain each one individually from a corresponding thief that has made use of it. The difference being that in the Echoes arc, the Ing don't remove Samus' abilities, they just copy them, because I want to avoid doing the lost upgrades bit as much as I can. But as I've said, with Dread there could be thematic relevance to Samus' original rite of passage, and with the EMMI adding to that justification, it might be that Samus loses and recovers her abilities only twice in the show. Although, Fusion and Dread are back-to-back, which means so are these losses; Dread's incident might come across as repetitive regardless.