#the 100 season 7 spec

[eddiespornstache]

“This doesn’t change a thing between us, okay?”

it’s a not a reassurance to Buck, it’s a reminder to Eddie. Eddie who knows, intimately, that somewhere years back his heart got off the train and stopped at Buck’s station, but refuses to look head on at it, prefers to keep Buck at the arm’s distance of “best friend” and “guardian in the event of an emergency” because acknowledging his feelings? Confessing? It’s the ultimate failure.

It’s reckoning with the fact that shoving all of his fumbling queer feelings into a box as a teenager, of packing away any hopes and dreams he might have had for a life on his own terms as a young man, marrying Shannon to give Christopher the heteronormative nuclear family he was supposed to, joining the army as a coward’s way out of actually being part of that family, chasing relationships with Ana and Marisol as fundamentally broken facsimiles of the marriage to his dead ex-wife that he’s lionized so desperately in his head, ignoring everything within him screaming that with all of this he wasn’t doing right by himself—all of it was for nothing.

All of it would end with Eddie kissing a man, with Eddie sleeping with a man, with Eddie raising a son with a man—everything he wasn’t supposed to do, everything he wasn’t supposed to be. And yes, it’s Buck, and Eddie has so much love for Buck, more than he could ever know what to do with or where to put, but to love Buck honestly—it doesn’t just mean that Eddie’s doing something he was taught was wrong as a child, as part of a religion he no longer believes in as an adult. In means he has spent his entire life, and every scrap of agency he ever almost had, fighting against the impossible, the inevitable.

And Eddie knows this, and he hates that he knows it so he pretends that he doesn’t and it’s almost enough. Buck unknowingly telling Eddie that’s he’s attracted to men too changes nothing. It doesn’t mean that Eddie might have a shot, because Eddie cannot have a shot. Because he has spent so, so long trying to be the guy who doesn’t want that shot. Because after all these years, all this blood, every bad choice, every failure, every fuck-up—after a lifetime spent beating himself bloody trying to escape the truth at his core, how could he let it overtake him? How could Eddie lay down his fists now?

[bluelocksource]

Hiori Yō’s trivia (src: twt & Egoist Bible 2)

"Exposing yourself is only one aspect of ego."

☆ Character color: Light Blue.

☆ Weapon: Inspiration's Pass/ Supply of Inspiration.

☆ Birthday: 30th November.

☆ Current age: 16 (source) (2nd year of high school)

☆ Zodiac: Sagittarius.

☆ Birthplace: Kyoto.

☆ Family: Father. Mother. Himself.

☆ Current height: 183 cm.

☆ Dominant foot: Left foot.

☆ Blood type: B.

☆ Motto: "Life is not a game, but games are fun."

☆ Starts playing football: At age 0. "I was given a soccer ball the moment I was born."

☆ Team before joining BLUE LOCK: Bambi Osaka Youth (same team as Karasu).

☆ Hobby: Gaming.

☆ Favorite football player: Mesut Özil.

☆ Favorite animal: Sheep. ."My name is Yō (羊 = sheep), so I feel a sense of affinity with it. Meeee—*."

* He's imitating a sheep's bleat.

☆ Favorite season: Rainy season. "Can’t play soccer in the rain → stay at home → can play games → I like it."

☆ Favorite food: Sanma no shioyaki (Salt grilled Pacific saury) he even like the bitter parts. "I can handle bitter parts too."

☆ Food he dislike: Cotton candy. "Don't you feel cheated? It's just sugar."

☆ Favorite song: NieR: Automata soundtrack. "Let's try this game." "You should try this game, it's really great!"

☆ Favorite manga: Level E. "I like the scene with the smiling bug."

☆ Favorite movie: Ready Player One. "My otaku heart got excited."

☆ Favorite TV show: Monday Late Night Show. "I like how Murakami adds a good flovor to it."

☆ Favorite celebrity: Erika Toda "Congrats on your marriage!"

☆ Favorite brand: "Somehow, Square Enix."

☆ Magazines he often read: Jump and Young Jump.

☆ Frequently used app: Taiko no Tatsujin. "The one you play with your fingers."

☆ Mushroom shoots vs Bamboo shoots: Bamboo shoots. "They're crispy and delicious."

☆ What goes best with rice: Nagatanien’s (brand name) ochazuke. "I always have it with me. It’s a must!"

☆ What makes him happy: Being left alone.

☆ What makes him upset: Interference.

☆ What he thinks his strength is: Able to see things from a broader perspective.

☆ What he thinks his weakness is: Playing too much leads to a lack of motivation for other things.

☆ What made him cry recently: "I cried at the ending of 'Kaze no Klonoa'."

☆ Favorite/best subject: Computer.

It's written as パソコン (pasokon) which means Personal Computer, but it's just referring to Computer subject.

☆ Weak/least favorite subject: Physical Education. "I already play football, I don't see why I need to move around a lot."

☆ Ideal type: Someone who can leave him alone.

☆ Number of chocolates received from previous Valentine: About 4. "One was from a guy, so I was surprised."

☆ At what age he experiences first love: At age 10. "I was into Erika Toda from 'SPEC'."

☆ The first time he got confessed to: "A senior in middle school, one year older. They said they had been watching me, but I didn’t know them at all, so I turned them down."

☆ Fixation: Girls with broken bones (Influenced by Erika Toda in "SPEC").

☆ Average sleeping time: 7 hours. "I don't sleep when I'm gaming, though."

☆ How he spend his holiday: "Games. Games. Games."

☆ When taking a bath, which part he washes first: His neck. "I've heard it's full of nerves."

☆ What he usually buy from the convenience store: Yakult. "The health of intestinal environment is important."

☆ What will he do if he received 100 million yen: He would like to invest in gaming company.

☆ At what age he stops receiving presents from Santa: "Probably at 10 years old. My birthday is on November 30, so I was getting presents twice within a month."

☆ What was his last wish from Santa: "PS4 (now I’d ask for a PS5) and Nintendo Switch."

☆ What will he do during his last day on Earth: "Play as the killer in "Dead by Daylight" and get a complete wipe."

☆ Favorite historical figure: "All the people who created interesting video games. They are my saviors. Thank you!"

☆ If he hadn't encountered soccer, what will he be doing: "Probably other sports; either way, I think my parents would have made me do something."

☆ If he could only take one thing to a deserted island, what would it be: A tent. "It’s important to have a place where you can be yourself."

☆ If he had a time machine, would he go to the past or the future: The past. "I’d like to see my parents when they were active athletes. Maybe then, I could understand some things better and make peace with them."

* The crossed words are the changes made from twitter’s answer to the answer from Egoist Bible.

note: i want to apologize in advance for any mistake made in the translation!!

Last updated: 06/01/2024 05/06/2024 23/10/2024

[buckevantommy]

I also learnt about bi buck through beloved blogs of mine collectively losing their shit on my dash 😂 they all revealed themselves as secret 911 blogs and I just couldn't hold back the curiosity and needed to give the show a go! and like many people I loved it and now it's slowly consuming my life and my tumblr 😅

I'm also loving and really appreciating how on the same page we are with our 911 journeys! 🥰🚒 I had also found out about the Buckley family secret and the lightening strike through fic because I couldn't hold myself back anymore lmao. I had fun though! and knowing ahead of time hasn't diminished the watching experience any! so what's our moto? Who cares!

Watching S4 Buck, who's going through so much and wants to be loved so bad, who's hurt and finding his footing -- knowing he'll find his family, and his sexuality, and really settle into himself and his place is honestly so heartwarming 😊🥰 Buck is my fav character for sure, I love his journey 😍

It makes me feel a lot better about not being 100% caught up knowing someone else is right there with me 😅 I see sooo many people on my dash saying they've been in the fandom for years, that they've watched the show since the beginning, but are only diving into fandom now etc etc so I feel a little like 👁️👄👁️ on the edges of fandom. I just need to keep telling myself it doesn't matter how late I joined, just that I'm having fun and enjoying the excitement of a new show and a new fandom. That there are other people right there with me 🤝

You're so right about fandom being SO different with a show that has a weekly release schedule. The gap between episodes is amazing! It gives me time to catch up, to enjoy the theories and art and fic. That's the kind of shit that fandom feeds off, and it's really refreshing. I can't wait for S8! 😍🚒📺

Tommy is such an amazing character, he's so interesting and intriguing even with just the little of what we've seen of him. I am eagerly awaiting seeing more of him 👀 it would be such a waste to write him out tbh. His relationship with Buck is amazing, he's so in depth as a character, a breath of fresh air! I also want to see cool and weird helicopter rescues lmao. Him all cool and confident behind the controls bc I am only a woman 😂

Anyway. Sorry this got long 😅

Buck Begins Anon. (BB Anon? lmao hopefully you know who I am)

oh yeah i'm so glad i was here for the live freakout bc nothing holds a candle to watching folks lose their minds on the dash when something good happens in their beloved media. 🤩🫶 i was surprised how much i love this show - i was half expecting to just follow along with the bi!buck storyline, but then the first ep i watched i was like: oh no (oh yes!) i'm hooked. (angela bassett and kenneth choi got me good). this used to be my multi-fandom/life blog but now it's transformed into a 911 zone and i have zero regrets.

i am truly a buck girlie. and yes, knowing what happens in season 7 makes season 4 buck’s journey that much more significant. i am loving it so far. 💕

i’d love to follow more new 911 blogs who are experiencing it for the first time - consider this a shoutout! and i gotta say my fave thing about seeing longtime fans on the dash is the way their minds connect dots - because not only have they watched the entire series, a lot of them have done so multiple times so their knowledge of whowhatwherehowwhy is really cool to see, whether it be in asks or meta or gifsets or crackposts or fic or spec. 🤯🫡 and there are so many great blogs on here (use that filter and block who you need to, but..) i hadn’t expected to dive headfirst into another fandom but i am having a blast and it really comes down to curating your dash with the people who vibe with your vibes, you just gotta find your people. 😎🥳 

i really am so thankful for the gap 😅 i’m so glad 911 is still a network show and not a streaming show. fandom thrives of the gap! 

10000% agreed on your tommy thoughts. i think it’s safe to say he’ll be around for all of season 8 and we’ll just have to see what happens at the end.. 🚁💕 

‘tis the hazard of conversational asks where each one keeps getting longer! 😅🫶 all good BB!

[tomorrowxtogether]

[NOTICE] TOMORROW X TOGETHER '2024 SEASON’S GREETINGS'' Release Announcement

We would like to inform you of the release of <2024 SEASON’S GREETINGS> by TOMORROW X TOGETHER, a collection of scenes of youth painted in their distinct colors.

The 2024 SEASON’S GREETINGS presents the delicacy and subtle nuance of youth, which is beautiful because it is easily swayed, in the TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s way.

The boundless and romantic moments of the members are included in the photo book, and in the DIGITAL CODE, you can meet a variety of special programs, such as “Relay Drawing” and “MC TOMORROW X TOGETHER Show,” where members become MCs.

Plus, the package is made more special by the addition of a desk calendar, photo card set, square stickers of colorful moments, and sentimental paper mobile.

TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s unfamiliar and yet a forlorn scene “TOMORROW X TOGETHER 2024 SEASON’S GREETINGS” will be available for pre-order from November 28 and officially released on January 22, 2024.

※ Register/verify the digital code enclosed with this merchandise to watch the video and obtain the digital planner through Weverse Collection. For more information, please refer to the <TOMORROW X TOGETHER 2024 SEASON’S GREETINGS> viewing guide released at 6 pm (KST) on December 17!

[PRE-ORDER DATE] - From 11AM, Tuesday, November 28, 2023 (KST) *WHILE SUPPLIES LAST*

[RELEASE DATE] - Weverse Shop GLOBAL : December 18, 2023 (KST) - Weverse Shop US : January 22, 2024 (PST) - Weverse Shop JAPAN & UNIVERSAL MUSIC JAPAN : January 11, 2024 (KST)

*Online Retailers: December 18, 2023 (KST) - Kakao Talk Gift - MUSICPLANT - KYOBO BOOK CENTRE(HOTTRACKS) - Aladin - YES24

- OUTBOX Size: 210 x 310 x 45 mm *This box is designed to protect the product. We cannot provide an exchange or a refund due to stains or damage on the box sustained during the distribution process.

[SPEC] 1. DESK CALENDAR Size: 130 x 235 mm / 28p 2. SCHEDULER Size: 125 x 185 mm / 64p 3. PHOTOBOOK Size: 125 x 185 mm / 88p 4. DIGITAL CODE SET DIGITAL CODE Size: 27 x 85 mm / About 60 mins PAPER Size: 45 x 110 mm / 1ea [144p], [270p], [360p], [480p SD], [720p HD], [1080p FHD] KOREAN, ENGLISH, JAPANESE, CHINESE *This product is made of recycled plastics. Furthermore, natural phenomena such as tiny spots and parting lines may occur naturally as part of the manufacturing process in some products, and they are not considered defects. 5. POSTCARD SET POSTCARD Size: 100 x 150 mm / 5ea ENVELOPE Size: 110 x 160 mm / 1ea 6. PHOTOCARD SET Size: 55 x 85 mm / 10ea 7. FOLDED POSTER Size: 297 x 420 mm / 1ea 8. STICKER SET Size: 130 x 190 mm / 2ea 9. PHOTO FRAME CARD SET FRAME Size: 95 x 95 mm / 1ea CARD Size: 65 x 55 mm / 4ea 10. PAPER FOLDER FILE Size: 195 x 290 x 10 mm / 1ea 11. PAPER MOBILE Size: 150 x 210 mm / 1ea 12. MEMO PAD Size: 70 x 120 mm /30sheets

[sevensoulmates]

if the bi buck spec is true then tommy is literally the definition of a plot device meant for bucks development this season, which means he's probably done in the end of the season which makes sense why they've brought back a person who cameo'd in s2 to be a part of a characters arc in s7. i think by the end of the season buck will be confident in who he is thanks to his time with tommy and be open and comfortable with the idea of being with men meanwhile I think Eddie and Marisol will absolutely break up and why is going to be obvious to everyone but Eddie, setting us up for a season 8 that's going to tell the story they wanted to tell in S5 but the FOX network stopped them and that is the journey to Buddie getting together. This is going to be an angst filled season for sure, but by the end of it I fully expect we are fully on the road to Buddie. Hell the second Buck is kissed by a man, that's the moment Buddie is confirmed as the endgame because the only reason you even do this is because you fully intend to tell the story you've wanted to tell for multiple seasons and that is Buddie.

Good morning friend!

I'm really hoping the Buck/Tommy spec is true because you're absolutely right, he would absolutely be a temporary plot device for Buck's queer realization arc, and I'm 100% down for that. The GA (but honestly all viewers, even hardcore shippers) NEED something to happen on-screen that confirms queerness in one or both of Buck and Eddie. This is the very first step to signal to the audience that Buck's endgame person...just might be a man. And who do we know on this show who's a man who's perfect for Buck in literally every way? It will get people thinking, especially if Eddie is somehow peripherally involved in Buck's arc, even just as someone watching them.

I don't know what's gonna happen with that honestly, but if Buck is confirmed queer, I truly don't see how that won't have an effect on Eddie in some way. I don't know how, but if the writers play their cards right it could be a tandem queer realization (though maybe delayed in Eddie like you said cuz he's still gotta get over things with Marisol and on a more unconscious level, Shannon), but they really have set us up to come back full circle to season 5 if that's the case. Both Buck and Eddie need to make active choices about their relationships again.

Maybe this time, Eddie will be able to break up with Marisol knowing full well why his relationship with her won't work out. Maybe this time, Buck will be able to have a short-lived fling with Tommy, and be able to open his eyes to the fact that the love he actually wants is right in front of him (the calling back to Buck, Actually is getting my hopes SO HIGH and I'm trying my damndest not to get too caught up in it.)

I think season 7 could be the perfect transition season, and I don't mean that in a bad way. I mean in terms of setting us up for the story that wants and needs to be told in future seasons.

(again, I know this is all some serious spec built off some leaps of faith the fandom has taken with behind-the-scenes info) BUT if we get any of these things this season, I seriously believe we have a higher chance than ever of seeing canon buddie in season 8:

Queer Buck (whether it involves Tommy or someone else, etc.)

Eddie breaking up with Marisol by the end of the season (bonus points if it has anything to do with Buck/Buck's queerness, or happens prior to the wedding, or even at the wedding)

Queer Buck affecting Eddie in any way (even subtextually)

Any sort of big moment that signals a romantic shift in perspective toward the other one (could happen at literally any time)

It would also be amazing if they have any sort of moment at Chim's bachelor party or wedding (this is another popular spec, right? I've seen it going around) because those are both surrounded by themes of love and future commitment and could also be foreshadowing.

Season 7 honestly has the chance do something great and I'm okay with conflict getting in the way of that (Tommy, Natalia, Marisol, the ghost of Shannon, etc.) if it means they're setting up for buddie to actually happen in s8 or beyond.

[leasthaunted]

Least Haunted Character Recap: Consent Fetishist "Rassy."

This Friday (12/22/23) Least Haunted will release its 4th annual fully dramatized Holiday Special: Consent Fetishist Rassy's 100% Consensual Christmas Extravaganza!

But some of you who are unfamiliar with The Least Haunted Podcast might be a bit confused as to what the hell is going on, or who the hell "Consent Fetishist Rassy" is? So We have prepared this Helpful little character bio/recap to bring you up to speed.

This will include all appearances of Rassy in both Halloween and Holiday specials. It will gloss some of the non special appearances for completion. But you really should listen to the show, because they get mentioned rather frequently. Are you ready? You have to say "Yes" first! Those are the rules...

NAME: Rassy

ALIASES: Consent Fetishist Rassy, Consent Fetishist Elmo, Tickle You Elmo, Dr. Funninstuffed phd

AGE: (as of 2023) -7 is from a nullified future timeline/parallel universe. will would have been manufactured ca, 2030.

HEIGHT: 2.5 ft, .762 meters

WEIGHT: Surprisingly more than you would suspect

GENDER: Whatever you want them to be

ORIENTATION: Pansexual Polyamourous

PRONOUNS: They/Them

First, we need to talk about The Backwards Carousel of Time!

The Backwards Carousel of Time was introduced in Episode 04: The Clownening, and is a mechanical device later revealed to have been built by Cody using specs from the internet, and parts kluged together from a Tiger Electronics X-Men handheld game from the 90's, and a Tickle Me Elmo doll. It allows for Cody and Garth to travel through time to observe events discussed in the podcast a la "The Ghost of Christmas Present."

The Carousel SHOULD not allow for interaction between the observed and the observers... It is used primarily as a narrative device to keep things interesting.

All of this changed however in Episode 44: OOPS! All Christmas! Which served as the show's second Holiday Special.

In this holiday special Cody has added some modifications to the Backwards Carousel of Time that would allow for travel to the future and not just the past, and he wants to show them to Garth. Unfortunately a spilled holiday themed beverage causes a malfunction which transports the two to an alternate future in which The War on Christmas was decisively and brutally won by Christmas. Now every day is Christmas, and all culture and economy are yuletide based.

It is revealed that the carousel doesn't actually travel through time, and it never has! Instead it creates a small pocket dimension that operates much like the Holodeck from Star Trek. However this time due to the spilled drink malfunction the simulated people within the pocket dimension can see and interact with Cody and Garth.

In order to escape back to their rightful time/dimension Cody and Garth must team up with a cadre of militant Santa Clauses who are waging a guerrilla campaign to overthrow the fascist holiday state and return balance to all holidays with the true meaning of Christmas.

To repair the carousel they need a chip from a Tickle Me Elmo equivalent, which in this timeline is called "Tickle You Elmo!" (The doll with no sense of personal space!), and it just so happens to be the must have toy of the season. Also, Tickle You Elmo is a fully autonomous AI animatronic toy now.

Working with the Santa's they successfully steal the toy in a heist, use the parts to repair the carousel and return home. Unfortunately in the process the carousel is destroyed, AND the Tickle You Elmo came back to reality with Cody and Garth!

Using quick thinking, the duo lock the pesty robot in a room with the broken Backwards Carousel of Time with instructions to "Fix it."

That is where Tickle You Elmo is left...

That is until, Episode 50: The Garth Moon Hoax!

In this regular episode of the podcast, it is revealed that not only has Tickle You Elmo completed repairs on the Backwards Carousel of Time, but due to some deep soul searching and self exploration Tickle You Elmo has learned the value of consensual interactions, and in fact now consent is their kink. Thus they are rebranded as Consent Fetishist Elmo!

Tracking Coyotes...

[PICTURE REDACTED/CLASSIFIED]

Around this time Consent Fetishist Elmo was sent to help Patreon Monster Squadron member, and wildlife biologist, @thebibarbarian in their research regarding Coyotes. Consent Fetishist Elmo officially became The Bibarbarian's research assistant, and along the way got alarmingly good at shooting a tranquilizer gun. A skill that would have been much more troubling if developed at a past point in their life. Also, a skill that translates into a general proficiency in long-guns...

Episode 65: Helldoodle!

In this, the third Halloween Special, Cody and Garth accidentally open a portal to Hell by playing a Three Men and A Baby Breakfast Cereal premium collector's 45 rpm vinyl backwards.

The resulting portal allows a number of Demons to come through into our plain of existence. One such Demon, Malacoda gets renamed Garth-Two and aides Cody and Garth in closing the portal and returning the other Demons to Hell. Garth-Two sticks around to become another recurring character.

Consent Fetishist Elmo show's up at the end to tranquilize a coyote and announce that they have returned from their time as a research assistant.

At the end of the special it is implied the Garth-Two tries to eat Consent Fetishist Elmo. In the process one of Consent Fetishist Elmo's eyes is damaged. It is later revealed through dialogue in regular episodes that the duo of Garth-Two and Consent Fetishist Elmo have actually become close friends, and that the two have embarked on a roadtrip through The American Southwest together.

Episode 91: Bottleeen!

In the fourth Least Haunted Halloween Special it is revealed that Consent Fetishist Elmo and Garth-Two have returned from their Thelma and Louise style voyage of self discovery. Also In order to escape the lawyers of "Big PBS" and The Children's Television Workshop, Consent Fetishist Elmo has adopted a new moniker!

Since Elmo it a nickname based on the name Erasmus, they have adapted a new variant of Erasmus and now go by, Consent Fetishist Rassy

In the episode Rassy shoots a fake Cody (a bottleganger) in the head sniper style in order to save Garth from being trapped in a small bottle-episode dimension. Although that part may not be completely canonical... You'll just have to listen to that episode to find out!

Which brings us up to speed with this year's holiday special, Consent Fetishist Rassy's 100% Consensual Christmas Extravaganza! Which premiers FRIDAY DECEMBER 22ND wherever podcasts can be heard, as well as on www.leasthaunted.com.

Who would have thought that a small independent artisanal podcast about paranormal skepticism would develop such a complex and intricate backstory and canonical universe? Eat yer hearts out Marvel!

p.s. You should also probably be aware that in the parlance of The Least Haunted Podcast, the term "Notes" can refer to weed. That might be helpful to know in the special as well.

[winterskydragonx]

I don't really care about season 7 of 911. For once, I just don't feel the hype at all and my trust in the showrunner is very low.

Right know I'm here for Eddie and only Eddie. I won't watch live and I'll keep an eye out for all the Eddie content.

Also the fandom spec have been wild and pushed in your face. I don't really care about the Marisol & Tommy discourse. Hell Buck can kiss his twin if they really want to throw another Li at him. If that happens, it won't be a good time. They wrote themselves in a corner with Buck and Eddie. Good luck to them. Also naming the 100 episode with Buck's name does not entail good omen. (It's not the Buck show.)

This show use to bring good feelings, but now my feelings have been pretty negative. I'll stay with the great fanfic out there which is better. I want to enjoy it again, but we will see.

[blazehedgehog]

Considering your financial situation, wouldnt it be justified to just pirate the big releases especially when they often leak/the fact that you wait some time anyways before making a video?

Ofcourse I understand supporting indies and other smaller games, but I think sonic games will survive one less sale tbh

Working for TSSZ kind of broke me of my habit of pirating most games. I didn't need to pirate games anymore. Tristan was a consummate professional about that kind of stuff. If I wanted to write about a game and did not own it, I'd put in a request and it'd get bought for me, or I'd even buy it for myself and expense it to get that money back.

Here's the deal about pirating big new games: my computer is from 2015. My faith in capturing video from PC games, especially brand new PC games, is not very strong. Even if it's something like Sonic Superstars, a game that seems to be targeting lower spec systems than most.

That is why you see me holding a PS4 copy of Superstars and not just buying it on Steam. On PS4, I'll get consistent performance and consistent video capture.

It's also just a different world out there. The last time I was into pirating PC games, torrenting was a lot safer and a lot easier to do. I've got accounts at a couple of private, invite-only trackers, and both of them straight up say "Hey if you're torrenting files, either from us or anywhere else, you should be using a VPN bare minimum."

And I don't. Nor do I want to use a VPN. It's a lot of hoops to jump through just to get a game, what, a few days early?

And then there's the other headache: I mentioned having accounts at a few private trackers, and those places will crack the whip on you pretty hard if you don't seed. To give you a peek behind the curtain a little bit, during the Sonic Frontiers review, for the pinball segment, I was debating on how to get footage of "real" pinball. Do I borrow somebody else's video?

Then it dawned on me: No, Farsight Studios made a bunch of really great pinball conversions via Pinball Arcade. One problem, though: another developer named Zen bought out the rights to most of their library and as a result Pinball Arcade lost like 70% of its tables. So, I figured I'd have to pirate them. It was also a good excuse to get the PC version of Addams Family Pinball, which I bought and paid for on my phone years ago.

So I grabbed a torrent from one of these private trackers. All seven seasons from before the Zen Pinball buyout. 8, almost 9gb. Something like 100 pinball tables total. I was literally in the process of scanning the rar files for viruses when I realized: wait, I'm an idiot, I bought Pinball Arcade Season 7 on the PS4. There was a pricing error when it launched and they were selling the whole season for like $6, when normally a season would be closer to $30.

So I fired up the PS4, captured my video from that, and that's what is in the final product: me playing Pinball Arcade Season 7 on console.

So now I have this torrent of all of Pinball Arcade on my PC and I'm not sure I want to risk installing it. It seems clean, but there's always that worry. I have bricked a PC once from playing illicit software.

And clearing that torrent with the private tracker? They had me seed that thing every day for two months before they took me off the "Hit & Run" list (meaning my account was potentially up for deletion). All the while they're saying "Hey, protect yourself, use a VPN when you torrent from us."

All of that is just one big bundle of nerves and stress and work that is solved by just waiting for it to officially release and buying it normally. It is the ultimate in convenience.

[itsalesliesaurus]

Welcome to my first Simblr post! 🎉 Thank you in advance for your support - I appreciate you stopping by to check out my creations and share in my love/hate relationship with The Sims (IYKYK) 😂

THE INSPIRATION

I've always had an affinity for Maine (as well as all things ocean, lobster and blueberry), so I was drawn to this little oceanside bungalow when it showed up in my feed one day.

There's a lot about it I couldn't replicate exactly, so I decided to give it a bit of a more lux renovation to make it a little less "shabby chic". It still retains the charm of a little cottage by the sea, but feels like a place where you could escape for a long weekend to relax and unwind with nature without having to tough it out surrounded by mosquitoes.

Tip: To make it look more like the real thing, change the roofing to the red "Heavy Metal Paneled Roof Sheet" that came with the Eco Lifestyle pack. I loved the way it looked, but in terms of blending in with the neighborhood, it just stuck out like a sore thumb.

================================================

LOT SPECS

Brindleton Bay, in the Cavalier Cove neighborhood

20x20 (replacing Bedlington Boathouse)

Residential

Tier 3 tiny home (70/100 tiles)

1 bed, 1 bath

$68,225

LOT TRAITS

Bracing breezes

Homey

Natural light

PERKS OF THE PROPERTY

Ocean views

Beach access

Wild rabbit home and two resident rabbits ready to be your new friends

Lots of greenery, inside and out

Washtub and clothesline, saving you money and infusing your freshly laundered clothes with the refreshing scent of salty sea air

A bike for easy-going rides around the neighborhood to do some beach combing and fishing

EXPANSION PACKS/STUFF PACKS/KITS USED

Expansion Packs: Cats & Dogs, Cottage Living, Discover University, Eco Lifestyle, For Rent, Get Together, Growing Together, High School Years, Horse Ranch, Journey to Batuu, Outdoor Retreat, Seasons, Snowy Escape, StrangerVille, Vampires

Stuff Packs: Backyard Stuff, Home Chef Hustle, Laundry Day

Kits: Bathroom Clutter, Blooming Rooms, Decor to the Max, Modern Luxe

================================================

CUSTOM CONTENT

A huge thanks to these amazing creators for providing the materials that made this build possible! I want to be you when I grow up.

awingedllama: Apartment Therapy Inspired V2 // Boho Living // Nostalgia Living

Felixandre: Grove Part 1 // SOHO Part 1

Harrie: The Brownstone Collection 1 // The Coastal Collection Part 1 // The Coastal Collection Part 2 // The Coastal Collection Part 3 // The Coastal Collection Part 4

heybrine: Crystal Clutters // The Nana's Collection Part II // Noova

House of Harlix: Colonial Set Part 3 // Jardane // Kichen // Bafroom // Baysic // Orjanic Part 1

Joyceisfox: Simple Live Collection #5 // Simple Live Collection #7 // Summer Garden Part 1 // Forever Autumn Part 4

MAX20: Cozy Bathroom Kit // Master Bedroom // Garden at Home

myshunosun: Luna Bedroom // Rosa Bathroom

Peacemaker: Creta Indoor & Outdoor Kitchen // Hudson Bathroom // Round Jute Rugs

Pierisim: MCM House Part 5 // Oak House Collection (Parts 1-5) // Woodland Ranch Part 2 // Woodland Ranch Part 3

SIXAM CC: Kessler Kitchen

Syboulette: Happy Stairways Set

================================================

ABOUT ME

About me💃🏼 Hi, my name is Leslie and I identify as a broken Sims patch update \(ツ)/ I mean well and do my best, but sometimes I'm glitchy. But hopefully, my builds never will be!

Base Game only? Nope! 🏡��I own almost every Sims 4 expansion pack, game pack, stuff pack, and kit - and I intend to use them! That's not to say I'll never have builds that are base game only, but if that's what you're in search of, I'm probably not the right creator for you.

Custom content🎨 I also own a decent amount of custom content from amazing creators who make Build/Buy and CAS items - and I intend to use those, too! I will always provide a list of the custom content used in each build in the description of each release. I don't make my own custom content at the moment (but never say never).

Playtesting ▶️ I'll never roll out a build that hasn't been playtested. I'm not about builds for the sake of aesthetics - I want them to work! And if for some weird reason I do release without playtesting, I'ma call that out in the release post.

Download the build on my Patreon for free!

[eltongraphene]

The Ultimate Guide to the 7 Best Heated Jackets for Extreme Cold

Whether you're gearing up to hit the slopes or just unwind by the backyard fire, winter means getting ready to stay warm during all your favorite seasonal activities. While your go-to down jacket and winter boots provide insulation, they don’t generate actual heat, leaving you colder in biting winds and long outdoor days.

Heated jackets take things up a notch with coils that run throughout the jacket, connecting to a power source to warm your body and gear. This active heating effect helps you stay cozy even in the chill. They look like regular outerwear, with discreet batteries easily tucked away in pockets, making them a perfect solution for anyone who needs a little extra warmth when layering just isn't enough.

The Best Heated Jackets

Best Jacket:Wulcea Classic Graphene Heated Jacket 2.0

Best Overall: Ororo Softshell Jacket with Detachable Hood

Best Down Option: Ororo Heated Down Jacket

Best Work Hoodie: Milwaukee Hoodie Heated Jacket

Best Minimalist Design: Tidewe Heated Jacket with Battery Pack

Most Storage: Dewbu Softshell Coat

Most Functional:Wulcea Classic Heated Paraka Jacket Adjustable Waist

What to Consider

Fit

Heated jackets come in both slim and regular styles, making them ideal for layering. For optimal performance, it’s recommended to wear your layers over the heated jacket rather than underneath, as the heating panels are most effective when they’re closest to your body. Choose a snug-fitting heated jacket to easily layer on top.

Battery Life

Heated jackets feature rechargeable lithium batteries, and their lifespan depends on the heat setting you choose. All our selections offer three heat levels—low, medium, and high—with the longest battery life at the low setting. We’ve provided the battery life for each jacket based on its lowest setting.Notably, the Wulcea heated jacket comes with the largest power bank among these jackets, ensuring stable heating throughout your adventures.And If you plan to be outdoors for extended periods, some models allow you to purchase extra batteries for easy swaps.

Waterproof&Windproof

When it comes to battling the elements, waterproof and windproof features are essential for any heated jacket. These jackets are designed to keep you dry and shielded from harsh winds, ensuring that you stay comfortable no matter the weather. The waterproof materials prevent rain and snow from soaking through, while windproof construction blocks chilly gusts that can sap your warmth. Look for jackets with sealed seams and durable water-repellent (DWR) coatings for added protection. With these features, you can confidently embrace winter activities, knowing that you’ll stay warm, dry, and protected from the elements.

How We Choose

We analyzed feedback from expert testers and reviewers to identify which heated jackets excelled in performance, then turned to customer reviews to gauge real buyer satisfaction. We selected a diverse range of styles to meet the demands of outdoor work, chilly warehouses, and winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. The heated jackets we recommend cater to different needs and consistently provide warm, dry comfort as promised.

Wulcea Women's Classic Graphene Heated Jacket 2.0 (Hardshell)

Pros:Weatherproof;

Detachable hood for versatility;

Heats up in under 20 seconds;

Machine washable

If you’re on the hunt for a fantastic winter jacket, you’ve got to check out the Wulcea Heated Jacket—it’s currently at an amazing discount, almost half off! This jacket features three adjustable heat settings, giving you up to 10 hours of that lovely warmth that feels just like soaking up the sun. Plus, it’s waterproof and windproof, so you can brave the elements without a worry. The detachable hood and cozy wool lining make it super comfy, too. Trust me, you don’t want to miss this deal—stay warm and stylish this winter with the Wulcea Heated Jacket!

Key Specs

Sizes:S-3XL

Fit:Regular fit

Battery Life:Up to 10 hrs.

Shell:100% polyester

Function:Water-resistant, windproof

Ororo Soft Shell Heated Jacket with Detachable Hood

Pros:Weatherproof;

Detachable hood for versatility;

Heats up in under a minute;

Machine washable

This jacket is frequently recognized as a top pick among both experts and customers. In under a minute, it effectively heats three key areas: the left and right chest and the mid-back.

On its lowest heat setting, it can last up to 10 hours, while the highest setting offers around 3 hours of warmth, making it perfect for a full workday. The outer shell is crafted from high-performance polyester, which is windproof and water-resistant, with many users noting its exceptional waterproofing due to its strong beading and repellency.

Featuring a detachable hood that cinches for added versatility, it effectively blocks wind along with the adjustable hem. Reviewers are particularly impressed with the fast and effective heating, as well as the solid build quality of Ororo’s soft shell jacket, stating that it outshines pricier options in both comfort and performance.

Key Specs

Sizes:S-3XL

Battery Life:Up to 8 hrs.

Shell:100% polyester

Function:Water-resistant, windproof

Dewbu Soft Shell Coat

Pros:

Offers 5 heating zones

Less bulky

Automatically adjusts to save battery

Small power bank

Dewbu’s soft shell jacket boasts five heating zones across the front, back, and arms for optimal warmth, with three heat settings that last up to four hours on the highest level. Its practical design includes multiple pockets on the chest, arms, and back, and the hood can be conveniently folded down and stored away for versatility. Plus, it features a waterproof yet breathable membrane.

Customers report that this heated jacket fits true to size, though some prefer to size up for easier layering. They also appreciate the smart adjust feature, which automatically lowers the high heat to medium after five minutes to conserve battery and keep you from overheating. Additionally, you can purchase a 12-volt cable separately, allowing you to charge the battery via the plug on your boat, bike, or snowmobile.

Key Specs

Sizes:S-3XL

Battery Life:Up to 10 hrs

Shell:Polyester, spandex

Function:Waterproof, windproof

ORORO Heated Down Jacket

Pros:

Premium down insulation

Offer 4 heating zones

Detachable hood for versatility

This jacket, our Best Overall pick, features enhanced high-power insulation and an additional fourth heating zone for extra warmth. It boasts 750-fill down insulation that’s RDS-certified, ensuring it’s ethically sourced from animals that haven’t been live-plucked or force-fed.

The four heating zones—including the pockets, upper back, and neck—offer three adjustable levels and can last up to three hours on the highest setting. Reviewers especially love the neck zone, noting it provides significant warmth compared to others that only heat the back, and the fleece lining adds an extra layer of coziness.

Keep in mind, this jacket tends to run small, particularly in the armholes and chest, so you might want to consider sizing up for a better fit.

Key Specs:

Sizes:S-3XL

Battery Life:Up to 10 hrs.

Shell:100% polyester

Function:Water-resistant, wind-resistant

Tidewe Heated Jacket with Battery Pack

Pros:Battery pack displays percentage of charge left

Plenty of pockets

USB port to charge mobile devices

This heated jacket features a minimalist design with plenty of storage, offering eight pockets to securely hold all your essentials. Its water and wind-resistant shell keeps you warm and dry, while the adjustable hood and drawstrings at the hood and hem provide extra protection from the elements—or you can easily remove the hood if you prefer a sleeker look.

According to reviews, it heats up in under 30 seconds, although some customers note that the back tends to be warmer than the front. The battery pack includes a display that shows the remaining battery life percentage and has a USB adapter for charging your mobile devices. With its ample pockets and weatherproof features, this jacket is perfect for snow sports enthusiasts.

Key Specs:

Sizes:S-3XL

Battery Life:6 hours

Shell:Polyester

Function:Waterproof

Venustas Heated Jacket with Detachable Hood

Pros:Detachable hood

Battery can also charge mobile devices

Offers 4 heating zones

This classic puffer jacket features four heat zones, making it a standout choice for winter activities. Customers appreciate its versatility, using it for everything from winter football games to fishing trips. It’s lightweight and easy to pack for travel, pairing well with both casual outfits and winter gear.

Designed as a unisex style, men are recommended to size up by at least one size; for a looser fit, going up two sizes may be ideal. While the nylon shell is weatherproof, it’s relatively thin, so if you're planning to hike, you'll want to layer with something more abrasion-resistant on top.

Battery life exceeds expectations, with many reviewers noting they rarely experience a loss of charge, and extra batteries can be purchased if needed. Additionally, Venustas is praised for its excellent customer service, with many reviews highlighting their responsiveness and support for any missing parts or malfunctions.

Key Specs：

Sizes：XS-4XL

Battery Life:Up to 8 hrs.

Shell:100% nylon

Function：Water-resistant, windproof

Venture Heat Heated Jacket Liner with Bluetooth Control

Pros:Easy to layer

Bluetooth controls

Flexible

This heated liner is specifically crafted for power sports and connects directly to a 12V battery on motorcycles, ATVs, and snowmobiles. It’s designed for seamless integration with Venture’s other heated riding gear. Featuring three heat settings and seven heating zones located at the sleeves, chest, back, and collar, it ensures riders stay warm whether commuting or touring.

Since it plugs straight into the battery, you won’t have to worry about running out of power. Although it’s intended to be worn underneath another layer, the water-resistant shell means you don’t have to fret if you encounter a bit of rain.

Customers rave about the Bluetooth control, finding it user-friendly while on the go. Reviews also highlight that the material layers easily under shell riding jackets.

The company has rigorously tested its products at highway speeds to ensure they effectively keep riders warm in high winds, but remember to layer up for maximum insulation, as there’s only so much any liner can do at speeds over 60 miles per hour.

Key Specs

Sizes:XS-4XL

Runtime:N/A

Shell:Polyester

Function:Water-resistant

If you're looking for a reliable way to stay warm this winter, heated jackets are a fantastic choice. They combine comfort, style, and advanced heating technology to keep you cozy during all your outdoor adventures. One standout option is the Wulcea Heated Jacket, which has been impressing customers with its exceptional performance.

With its powerful heating capabilities and thoughtful design features, it's perfect for everything from winter sports to casual outings. And the best part? This jacket is currently available at nearly half off! If you’re in the market for a heated jacket, now is the perfect time to grab the Wulcea—it’s a purchase you won’t regret!

Heated Jacket FAQs

1. How do heated jackets work?

Heated jackets are equipped with electric heating elements that are strategically placed within the fabric to provide warmth. These elements are powered by rechargeable batteries, typically located in a discreet pocket. Most heated jackets offer multiple heat settings—usually low, medium, and high—allowing you to adjust the warmth according to your comfort level. The heating zones often include areas such as the chest, back, and sleeves, ensuring optimal coverage to keep you warm during cold weather activities.

2. How long do the batteries last?

Battery life can vary significantly depending on the model and the heat setting used. Generally, you can expect heated jackets to provide anywhere from 3 to 10 hours of warmth. Higher heat settings consume more battery power, so if you're looking to maximize battery life, it's advisable to use the lowest heat setting when possible. Many heated jackets also come with features that allow you to monitor battery life, and some brands offer the option to purchase additional batteries for extended use during long outdoor adventures.

3. Are heated jackets safe to wear?

Yes, heated jackets are designed with safety in mind. They incorporate several safety features to prevent overheating and ensure user safety. Most jackets have built-in temperature controls that allow you to select your desired heat level, and many models automatically adjust the heat output based on external temperatures. Additionally, the materials used in heated jackets are typically flame-retardant, and the heating elements are constructed to prevent any risk of burns. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and care to maintain safety while enjoying the benefits of your heated jacket.

[saselfdefense]

Byrna's Mission 4 vs Byrna TCR

In an world where personal safety is paramount, choosing the right self-defense tool is crucial. Less-lethal options like the Byrna Mission 4 and Byrna TCR have gained traction due to their effectiveness and non-lethal nature. We show and will compare these two popular models from Byrna Technologies sold by S.A. Self Defense to help you make an informed decision.

Byrna Mission 4 The Byrna Mission 4 stands out with its robust design and intuitive functionality. Designed for both personal defense and professional use, it combines the reliability of a tactical tool with the flexibility of a non-lethal option. Design and Ergonomics The Mission 4 is designed with user comfort in mind. Its ergonomic grip ensures easy handling, while the lightweight build makes it easy to maneuver. It resembles a traditional rifle, which appeals to those who prefer a familiar format. The Mission 4's design allows for quick deployment, crucial in high-pressure situations. Performance Metrics In terms of performance, the Mission 4 impresses with its effective range of up to 100 feet. It fires projectiles at a velocity that ensures deterrence without unintended harm. Its accuracy makes it a reliable choice for those looking to maintain distance from potential threats. Here are the specs of the Byrna Mission 4 - .68 Caliber Projectiles (not included in kit) - 7-round Magazine & 12-round Magazine - Uses 12-gram C02 (not included in kit) - Quad Picatinny Rail - Foregrip for Better Control - Push-button Safety - Folding Front and Rear sights for Improved Target Acquisition - Adjustable Buttstock with Adjustable Cheek Pad - Quick-Change C02 Housing Velocity and power of the mission 4 - Muzzle Velocity - 325 fps / 221 mph* - Kinetic Energy - 14.7 joules * - Shot Capacity per C02 - 55 shots** - Effective Range - 100 ft - C02 Size - 88 gram - Magazine Capacity - (2) 19 rounds

Byrna TCR The Byrna TCR (Tactical Compact Rifle) offers a different experience, balancing compact design with tactical features. It's ideal for users in need of a portable yet powerful self-defense tool. Design and Usability The TCR’s compact design makes it extremely portable and easy to store. Its user interface is intuitive, aiming to provide a seamless experience for both beginners and seasoned users. Despite its smaller size, the TCR maintains an ergonomic grip, allowing comfortable use during extended periods. Technical Performance The TCR excels in close-range situations, with an effective range of approximately 60 feet. It delivers projectiles at significant speeds, providing quick and effective deterrence. Its accuracy is commendable, making it a reliable choice for fast-paced environments. Here are the specs of the Byrna Mission 4 - .68 Caliber Projectiles (not included in kit) - 7-round Magazine & 12-round Magazine - Uses 12-gram C02 (not included in kit) - Quad Picatinny Rail - Foregrip for Better Control - Push-button Safety - Folding Front and Rear sights for Improved Target Acquisition - Adjustable Buttstock with Adjustable Cheek Pad - Quick-Change C02 Housing Velocity and power of the Byrna TCR - Muzzle Velocity - 295 fps / 201 mph* - Kinetic Energy - 12.1 joules* - Shot Capacity per C02 - 19 shots** - Effective Range - 60 ft When deciding between the Byrna Mission 4 and Byrna TCR, consider your environment and specific defense needs. The Mission 4 offers long-range reliability, akin to a sturdy umbrella on a rainy day, preventing threats from ever getting too close. The TCR is like a pocket-sized shield, there when you need it and out of the way when you don’t. The choice boils down to your lifestyle and the specific scenarios where these tools will be employed. If you have any questions on the Byrna Mission 4 or Byrna TCR ask us anytime below S.A. Self Defense I got a question Read the full article

[mesillusionssousecstasy]

Buying Beverly Hills: Season 2

It was nice.

A bit heartbreaking when they discussed about the separation and the family.

I like the people.

Santiago is definitively handsome (maybe more than Adam).

Is it me or Zach at the end of season two is not wearing the wedding ring? haha.

Some quotes:

"- Another day, another dollar." (Episode 1)

"- The house comes fully furnished, designed by Faye Resnick." (Episode 2)

"- Body language. (Brandon) - Brandon... (Farrah) - Like, do you not see me? Are you choosing to not see me? This guy is literally showing me his back. It's so disrespectful." (Brandon - Episode 3) "- Your content's not interesting. How would you feel? (Tyler) - I think I'm the wrong person to ask for empathy in this situation. (Ben) - Well, it's getting hard to defend you... to be honest. I would just remove your ego and really just humble yourself, really apologize, and move one." (Tyler - Episode 3)

"- What, I say, "Here's a boundary", and you push past it?" (Ben) - It was too many boundaries for a friendship. It's like a relationship. It's like a high school... (Zach - Episode 4)

"- I'm gonna give you a heads-up. I don't sugarcoat shit. Okay, I'm, like, I say what I mean, I mean what I say. If she'd have scrubbed, she would have known, so I made enough of an impression that she won't do that to me anymore." (Michelle - Episode 4)

"- Adam, you were the.. you were the big talk of our lunch. It was lovely. It was like a Sex and the City episode I got stuck in with this gigantic competition/fight. (Zach) - Tell me about it." (Adam - Episode 6)

"- Loyalty in general is a very important thing for me. And in business, let's put it this way. I won't engage in business with people that are not loyal." (Episode 7)

"- 100%. Best way to do it. Sink or Swim. Throw her in the deep end." (Episode 7)

"- I don't sit back and wait for things to happen to me or for me. I make them happen for myself. - Yeah, in a conniving, thirsty way." (Episode 8)

"- She's in the friend group. So there's no weirdness at all that you're not on the listing? (Farrah) - Other than the weirdness she's making right now, not really." (Joey - Episode 8)

"- He says stuff for shock value purposes only. He doesn't care about what words are coming out of his mouth." (Alexia) - Which is not very smart. At all, yeah. (Sofia) - No! (Tyler - Episode 8)

"- Acting like everything's okay all the time is not gonna allow you to fix the issue at hand. (Alexia - Episode 8)

"- Look, I don't list properties to list them. I list them to sell them. (Ben) - Of course." (Episode 9)

"- How's it going here with this spec house? (Ben) - Good and bad. This house has so much to offer in the way of bells and whistles and everything you would want in brand-new construction. And the grennery, the air is fresher. (Zach) - Okay, so you have no offers. (Ben) - And we have nothing." (Zach - Episode 9)

"- My frustration with Zach is that I had to listen to him for three years considering The Agency. No, I have to listen to him consider leaving The Agency. (Ben) - I'm in, like this Zach Goldsmith purgatory. You see temptation in life, you have to decide if you're gonna take it or fight it off." (Zach - Episode 9)

"- I'm really hoping this is the last time, because I'm at my wit's end with it all." (Episode 9)

"- You're here, and he doesn't give a fuck 'cause he trusts me, he trusts us, but when you're saying things about who I am and my relationship, I can't have you around like this. So don't make me lose you because I like having you around." (Alexia - Episode 9)

"- We always crush this. Why are you so angry? - I'm not angry. Why are you the victim here?" (Episode 10)

"- Who was the designer? - César Giraldo." (Episode 10)

"- You have the ability. The same way to fuck it up is to unfuck it up." (Episode 10)

"- Wall woodwork by Duchateau." (Episode 10)

"- Designed by Wylan James."

[thegaminggladiator]

What Makes a Reliable Fortnite Gaming PC?

I have previously discussed what is needed in your gaming PC in order to run Cyberpunk 2077, but if that game doesn't appeal to you, then there are always other options.

One great option for those who prefer fast-paced online shooting games is Fortnite; a game that has essentially taken over generation alpha.

But what makes a good Fortnite gaming PC? What even is Fortnite? This blog will explain it all, including how to set up your PC to run the game!

What is Fortnite?

Fortnite is a popular online video game developed by Epic Games, first released in 2017. It is available on multiple platforms, including PC, consoles, and mobile devices. Fortnite is known for its engaging gameplay, vibrant graphics, and frequent updates. The game has several modes, with the most popular being Fortnite Battle Royale.

What are the Key Features of Fortnite?

Game Modes:

Fortnite Battle Royale: where up to 100 players compete to be the last person or team standing. Players can play solo, in duos, or in squads.

Fortnite: Save the World: a cooperative player-versus-environment (PvE) mode where up to four players work together to fight off zombie-like creatures and defend objects with fortifications they can build.

Fortnite Creative: a sandbox mode where players can create their own worlds and game modes using the game's assets.

Battle Royale:

Players start with no equipment and must search for weapons, resources, and items scattered across the game map.

The playable area gradually shrinks due to an encroaching storm, forcing players into closer encounters and ensuring that matches are fast-paced.

Building is a unique mechanic in Fortnite, allowing players to construct structures using resources gathered during the game. This adds a strategic element to combat and defense.

Seasons and Updates:

Fortnite operates on a seasonal model, with each season introducing new themes, items, weapons, and map changes.

Frequent updates keep the game fresh and engaging, with new content and limited-time events. Frequent updates can also buff and nerf weapons, ensuring that the game remains balanced and that no weapons are abused.

Cosmetics and In-Game Purchases:

Players can purchase and earn various cosmetic items, such as skins, emotes, and gliders, which do not affect gameplay but allow for personal customization.

The in-game currency, V-Bucks, can be bought with real money and used to purchase these cosmetics and Battle Passes.

Community and Social Features:

Fortnite has a strong community aspect, with players able to team up with friends, participate in events, and compete in tournaments.

Cross-platform play allows players on different devices to play together.

Fortnite stands out for its dynamic and engaging gameplay, continuous content updates, and unique building mechanics. Its free-to-play Battle Royale mode, in particular, has garnered a massive global player base, making it one of the most influential and widely played games in recent years.

What are the Minimum Specs for a Fortnite Gaming PC?

CPU: Intel Core i3-3225, or equivalent - RAM: 4GB - GPU: Intel HD 4000

What are the Recommended Specs for a Fortnite Gaming PC?

CPU: AMD Ryzen 3 3300U | Intel Core i5-7300U 3.5GHz, or equivalent - RAM: 8GB+ - GPU: AMD Radeon R9 280 | Nvidia GTX 960, or equivalent DX11 - GPU Memory VRam: 2GB+

And for the Ultimate Fortnite Gaming PC?

CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 3700X | Intel Core i7-8700 - RAM: 16GB+ - GPU: AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT | Nvidia GTX 1080 - GPU Memory VRam: 4GB+

Where Can I Achieve the Ultimate Fortnite Gaming PC Setup?

Companies like 3B Systems provide high-performance gaming PCs at competitive prices, allowing gamers to engage in a stimulating action shooter without shooting a hole in your wallet. So, head on over to 3B Systems in order to get a great PC for Fortnite.!

That's all for now. I'll see you all in the next blog!

[talentsoup]

Knoxville Models and Actors, Casting YOU! *$500/8 hrs on location.

Hey Jacksonville, FL talent, let’s get a busy Summer started!! Our client is a big box brand you know and they are casting for experienced and fresh faces with NO EXPERIENCE!

This project will be an internal training shoot (hybrid of photo and video shots). The final product has No Commercial value, is never shown to the public, and is for internal corporate training only. Full specs below-

Everybody submitted MUST be in the Soup. Submission is automatic when you register (always fast and free for talent) in TalentSoup. Details below! Break a leg everyone!

Talent Breakdown:

All lovely humans, all colors and flavors, 18-90 years old. No experience needed. Seasoned actors and fresh talent welcome! USAGE: Non union, NO COMMERCIAL USE OR VALUE, internal use only, corporate training. All other uses are excluded. In Perpetuity. Booked talent will shoot ONE half day, OR one full day. Wednesday, June 12th – Thursday, June 13th

Pays* $500 (Pro rate) for the Full day

Pays* $400 (Pro rate) for the Half day

Full day is 8:30 - 5:30 pm, with lunch break. Half day is 1 pm - 5:30 pm.

On location at a corporate store in Knoxville, TN. Talent within 125 miles of Knoxville and in TalentSoup will be submitted.

Be sure your Contact tab is complete with at least a City/State!

If you live outside that search radius and want to submit, email Chef.

This project is booking 7 total talent so GET IN THE SOUP!-

How To Submit: It’s fast and free! All submissions are within the TalentSoup system. So you MUST BE REGISTERED with TalentSoup to be submitted. For This and Future Submissions: If you are NOT in the Soup, go register at www.talentsoup.com as Talent, fill out ALL OF THE TABS, upload some images and you will be submitted, automatically, for ALL matching projects. We book talent nationwide.

Holler with questions: chef@talentsoup.com

When you register, we will submit you automatically to matching projects in the future. So go signup (fast and free) here https://talentsoup.com/signup Register this and all other projects at http://www.talentsoup.com. Free and paid accounts are submitted to all matching projects automatically. Paying (Pro) accounts get priority placement, keep 100% of their booked $$ rate, and more benefits. See the site for details on the Pro account. * Free accounts (Entry) are charged 20% of the booked rate and seen by clients after the Pro accounts.

[golfupnorth]

February 1, 2023 Newsletter

Anxiously Awaiting Golf Season!

As football is winding down all that is left is the big game. Not my choice of teams to be in the Super Bowl but The Chiefs and the Eagles should be fun to watch. Even though my Lions didn’t make the playoffs (I’m not going there), I have watched every game leading up to this. The only consolation of my team not being in the Super Bowl is that no matter who wins I won’t be crying in my beer (in my case Captain Morgan).

Once the Super Bowl is done I will really start obsessing about getting out on the golf course (my weekends are now open). I have mentioned numerous times that I got new clubs last season and how much I loved them. Especially my Big Bertha 7 wood. I have also mentioned numerous times how much I struggle with irons.

Do I need Irons?

I am slowly getting to the point where I may never need an iron other than a pitching wedge and sand wedge.

My set came with a 3 wood, 5 & 6 hybrids and I added the 7 wood. Those clubs are my go-to clubs for fairway shots. There are still times where I have to grab an iron and because I don’t believe I can hit them well, I rarely do. Santa is trying help me with the under 100 yard lies that my current woods/hybrids just won’t work with and my irons are hit or miss with. Woke up Christmas and found a Big Bertha 9 wood under our tree. I have not had a chance to try it and am planning to go to a simulator and give it a try. We will see how that works out.

Simulators, Driving Ranges, and Practice Swings

I am not a patient woman and not a fan of doing something that doesn’t have immediate measurable results. Because of that I don’t take practice swings, I am bored at driving ranges and simulators seem silly. That said I want to try my 9 wood and that may be the only way and I can suck it up and try it again.

My lack of patience and unwillingness to practice is probably why I haven’t seen under 100 yet. Now I do love playing at Top Golf, which has goals and scores in a way that makes sense to me. Simulators have a weird algorithm that using my club speed, angles, etc. to determine how far and where my ball landed. I am just not sure what to do with simulators.

Are you asking yourself this?

Why am I reading a newsletter by someone that hasn’t golfed for that long and that really doesn’t know enough about golf to write about golf? You are exactly right, I don’t know enough, but I love this game. I hope my passion and commitment to the sport comes through. That my struggles with my irons and getting below 100 have you remembering when you were in my shoes (maybe you still are). That every year I am sure I will break 100 and get so excited about the first par of the year reminds you of your early years of golf. Maybe even have you chuckling here and there.

This newsletter is not meant to make you a scratch golfer or provide tips that will get you to the top of the leaderboards. It is entertainment about my experiences on various courses. My perspective is not from a “good” golfer’s views, but someone still learning and just having fun on the course.

Why a Newsletter?

Funny story, I never planned to write a newsletter. A website (more on that later) that I dreamed up was built. The webmaster added the option to sign up for a newsletter. I missed that in the final walk through before going live and before I knew it we had subscribers.

Oh sh*t! I am barely a golfer, how will I write about golf?

Our first issue was stiff and boring, a recap of the stats/specs of a few golf course up north. I was falling asleep writing it. I can only imagine what our readers thought. Surprisingly, nobody unsubscribed and our subscribers started growing. Now I was really on the line to be witty and charming to folks I have never met. What have I done?

Based on our newsletter open rates every month and growing subscribers we must be doing something right. I appreciate all the wonderful feedback and comments. I am having a blast with coming up with content and writing this newsletter.

What about the Website?

golfupnorth.com came about out of my need. When I started golfing I became a tad obsessed. I wanted to golf every course I could find in northern Michigan. Wanting to book stay and play trips every weekend. I would search for courses in northern Michigan. Then have to visit their website to see if they offered lodging. It was not as easy as you would think in this digital day and age to find options easily.

There are several national and statewide websites for courses. Having to go down too many rabbit holes to find courses. I was not able to see all courses available in an area on one page. Going course by course to see what they offered and writing notes on scrap paper.

I wanted to enter an address of a hotel or an area I wanted to visit and see what courses were nearby and basic information about them. None of these sites offered me a way to see several courses and what they offered “at a glance” within a certain mile range of a location.

Frustration breeds Innovation

In my frustration I started a data base in an excel document of courses and what they offered. That soon got clunky and I would have to reduce the file on the screen so much that I could barely read the rows and columns. It just wasn’t easy to manage and didn’t provide what I wanted.

My needs are simple. I want to be able to go to one place and find courses that offered stay and play packages in different parts of northern Michigan. To find other courses in that general area/region. To show me those courses on one screen so I could compare. That is where the website idea came up. Could we do a filter command that would allow me to sort my database in a way that provided the information I wanted in a format that worked for me. Turned out we could.

Golf Up North was Born

I never thought others would use golfupnorth.com or even find it. The site was to make my life easier and it has. I use it all the time to find courses to play at.

I should have suspected that if golf is in the domain name you will be found. Next thing you know folks are using the site the same as I am. And signing up for this newsletter.

Finding courses that may not be easily found any other way. Many of the smaller courses don’t have the marketing budget to advertise or join tourism groups. It can be hard to get their name out there. They subsist on word of mouth and locals. I have found that the places only the locals know about are typically the best whether it is a restaurant, beach, or a golf course.

I love going to courses that I have read about, and everyone raves about. Who wouldn’t want to golf some of the best courses in the country? But northern Michigan has some jewels hiding off the beaten path. If you haven’t explored more than just the “known” courses you are missing out.

Having so much fun we added more websites!

Discovered I enjoy writing and this led us to create a few blog sites - Adventures in Northern Michigan and Northern Michigan History.

Seeing the favorable response to Golf Up North, we have also created the same type of directory websites for other industries in northern Michigan - Up North Breweries, Up North Wineries. We are having a lot fun with this and have more sites coming in the near future. We love northern Michigan and happy to promote it!

Golf Up North's Top 5 Golf Balls

A few people have written us and suggested I do reviews on balls, clubs, etc. I laughed and laughed. While I appreciate the confidence, but let us be real, do you really want to take my word on clubs or balls? I am 7-8 years into playing and because my first used set of clubs were Callaway and the first balls I was given were Callaway, bet you can guess what I use. 😊

Since my giving intelligent and insightful reviews was not going to happen I decided I could take a different approach. I started watching what clubs, shoes, balls, etc. that golfers on courses I visited were using. Because I am very adept at being annoying, I would ask when I would run into them at the clubhouse, the turn, even the parking lot what they used and why.

I was Charming, Not Creepy at All!

Well, a little creepy LOL. This led to some remarkably interesting conversations. Did not change my mind about Callaway but wasn’t expecting it to. I have compiled all that data and working on putting it all together to share. The first one I completed was the top 5 golf balls. This is based on hundreds of golfers I talked to. You can read the top 5 picks on our website.

You may have noticed we are now an amazon affiliate. This helps us maintain the site and to continue to offer free schwag. We felt this was a better option than having a lot of annoying ads constantly popping up. If you are inclined and need some golf balls, use the links in the article or click on the images and order your golf balls on Amazon through those links. We receive a small percentage of the sale and it does not affect your price at all.

Follow us on Social Media

Join the discussion on Golf Up North Facebook Group

Let us know your favorite course, tips or anything golf related! We encourage golf courses to share their news and specials with our group.

You can also like and follow us on Facebook and/or Instagram where we share information on golf courses Up North and what we think are funny or interesting tidbits about golf.

Share Your Favorite Course With Us

We would love to hear about your favorite Course in the Upper Peninsula or Northern Lower Michigan. Send pictures of golfing your favorite course and a couple of sentences about why you love the course. We will share your pictures and recommendations with our readers and on our social media accounts. If you include a mailing address, we will send you some Golf Up North schwag as a thank you!! Send your pictures and comments to marisa@golfupnorth.com

Find your Up North Golf Course

If you would like to find your perfect Up North golf course visit Golf Up North.

We hope you enjoyed our latest issue of The Golf Up North Newsletter.

Disclosure: We never tell a course who we are when we book and play a course. We do not ask nor will we accept free rounds to write about a course. We pay full price for our rounds for everyone in our group.

Golf Up North is part of the Up North Entertainment Group. Our family of sites also includes Up North Entertainment, Up North Wineries, Up North Breweries, Golfing Northern Michigan, Adventures in Northern Michigan, and Northern Michigan History.

[reciperesolutions]

Feast of the Seven Fishes!

I think from now on, each year, I’ll just copy notes from the year before’s post and add to/edit accordingly. That’ll make it much easier to track and then look up for reference in the next year to come! :)

Most of the courses were good enough that I just carried them over from last year. I did my big shop the Wednesday before and was going to plan out my day-of strategy ahead of time...but just ended up using the same guide I scribbled out last year. (It was so effective - no need to reinvent the wheel!) I started prepping/cooking at 9 am morning of…and basically didn’t stop until nearly 7 pm. It was a long - but stress-free - day, as I mostly had enough time to get everything done. We added arranged seating with name cards, which took a few minutes to work out - luckily, though, almost everyone was late, haha, so it all ended up working out fine. For a 6 pm dinner, though, better to start closer to 8:30 and limit breaks!

All of my notes from last year’s recipes + a few updates are included below, including how many multiples I recommend for each recipe based on number of guests (keeping in mind these portions are in the context of a 7-course dinner). General notes follow!!

COURSE 1: Drinks and appetizers - guest supplied! I considered trying a new recipe - like bite-sized crab cakes - but ultimately decided to just leave this to the guests. It turned out great! All apps were fish themed in one way or another, and asking for white wine worked out perfectly, too, to kick off the night (with extra bonus points for fish-theme-labeled wine)!

COURSE 2: Seafood Chowder. Based on recipe comments, I modified the original recipe by substituting the evaporated milk for 1 can of creamed corn + 1 cup of heavy cream, seasoned heavily with S&P (like, probably 1 tbsp of each - taste to confirm!), and 3 tbsp of Old Bay.

I didn’t peel the potatoes (totally fine!) and chopped rather than diced them - they and the fish will break up once you start mixing/transferring things. After it was basically done cooking, I transferred from the stove to the crockpot and kept on warm - this was great to free up my big pot, as well as get it at perfect serving temp. Ultimately transferred it to my soup serving bowl and had my sous chef walk around the table with me for serving: people served themselves from the bowl, then I topped with crumbled thick cut bacon (prepped the morning of) and a dash of Old Bay.

15 people or fewer = x1 recipe is plenty

https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/12732/fish-chowder/?internalSource=hub%20recipe&referringContentType=Search&clickId=cardslot%203

COURSE 3: Caesar Kale Salad. This year I made the dressing in the morning and didn’t add it to the kale until right before serving. Julienning the kale was a great task for early party arrivers :) I also accidentally doubled the amount of garlic year 1 (half was supposed to be for the croutons) but it was just as fantastic as you’d expect - this is the only way to do it.

I just did a sheet pan of large-chopped sourdough bread to make fresh croutons. Right out of the oven, I tossed them with some XVOO, S&P, and a lot of parm. Might be better to toss them with XVOO before they go in the oven? But they were good, and one large loaf of bread from Wegman’s was the perfect amount to match 15 people.

Also, don’t bother trying to use tongs to mix the dressing with the kale and croutons. Just dig right in with your hands. Sooo much faster and more effective. I also used 100% of the dressing to dress the salad, not a spec leftover. This was perfect. If you change the proportions, just go generous on the dressing side of things and store anything that’s leftover for another meal. (#worthit - though it starts tasting a little weird after 1-2 days.)

15 people = x3 recipe for dressing (use all garlic and parm called for); 2 large bunches of kale; 6-8 cups of oven-baked croutons

6 people = x2 recipe for dressing; 1 large bunch of kale; 3-4 cups of croutons

https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/14172/caesar-salad-supreme/?internalSource=hub%20recipe&referringContentType=Search&clickId=cardslot%2010

COURSE 3: Mediterranean stuffed, roasted red peppers with homemade ricotta. Always a win! I cooked these in the afternoon, then warmed the oven to 300 as we were nearing guest arrival time. That kept them good and warm (which is excellent), also out of the way. Tenting them with foil is also handy once they’re out if they aren’t served right away!

15 people = x2 recipe (genuinely only x1 recipe for ricotta, though)

https://reciperesolutions.tumblr.com/post/186616160460/roasted-red-peppers-and-cherry-tomatoes-with

COURSE 4: Charred asparagus with citrus bagna cauda sauce. This is a fantastic dish - but I HAVE to pay attention to making the sauce right! It’s sooo simple yet I keep misstepping (messed it up year 1 by adding the juice too early; messed it up this year by only doing one portion of juices or zest for an otherwise quadrupled recipe!).

Best way is to make the sauce a few hours ahead of time (up to the point of removing from heat THEN mixing in ALL the citrus juices) then just reheated it all right from the pan right before serving.

Don’t bother trying to broil the asparagus - it’s not worth it if you’re making more than one batch. Just do it all on the grill! Then throw the asparagus into the oven at 300 with the roasted red peppers to keep them warm prior to serving. Used my mini food processor to chop the almonds, and this worked really well for the right texture: a lot of little crumbles and just a few medium chunks. This is an AWESOME dish!

15 people = x4 recipe

6 people = x2 recipe

https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/char-broiled-asparagus-with-citrus-bagna-cauda

COURSE 5: Girelle and shrimp with sundried tomato cream sauce. Consistently a showstopper, no question!! For a double batch, I used the beer boil kettle (giant pot) on top of a stepstool with the giant beer brewing spoon we have in order to mix it all...this probably could have been managed in my regular pasta pot, though it would have been close.

Key is to remove the shrimp when they are about half cooked (and no more), as to really get the sauce to the right glistening consistency before serving, it requires ample time and patience stirring with the shrimp and pasta all together. I think next year, I might try sundried tomatoes in XVOO rather than from an airtight bag - maybe also throw in a little Romano to give the sauce some extra body. ¾# pasta to 1# medium shrimp is also the correct portion (I’ve done large shrimp in the past but I think med would be a little better), so this does require a little math given the unusual pasta bag sizes.

I used the wok for the shrimp, which worked perfectly, and basically cooked the shrimp as people were coming in (then tented the big beer pot I was mixing things into with foil). When I served the asparagus and peppers, I put the water on for the pasta and also started working on the sauce. All of this becomes super easy and pretty fast if you have the ingredients portioned out and ready to go before everyone sits down at the beginning of the feast!

15 people = x2 recipe

12 people or fewer = x1 recipe (by the time this course comes around, there’s not a lot of room left!)

https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/pasta-with-shrimp-in-tomato-cream

COURSE 6: Salmon with red pepper-walnut sauce. Definite crowd pleaser (even to the non-salmon-lovers)! For 11 fillets this year, I bought FRESH salmon from Wegman’s (never been frozen!) and I think it was worth it. We cut the fillets in half so they were square (a non-traditional cut from the traditional fillet shape) and this was great, both for cooking and serving (sauce on top). Came to 4-6 oz fillets per person. And you can definitely cook to the minimum times recommended for the fillets.

I prepped the fillets ahead of time (as people were arriving), and the sauce was whipped up in the blender, ready to be cooked down once the fillets were finished. This turned out great, as it meant minimal time away from the table for the final course prep. (Just tent the fillets as the sauce is cooking down.)

15 people = x4 recipe (just math it to max 1 piece of salmon per person - by the time we get to salmon, no one has room for anything more than that lol)

https://reciperesolutions.tumblr.com/post/613784150286237696/pan-seared-salmon-with-red-chili-walnut-sauce

General notes:

1) Prepping it all in advance is gold. Reusing my general schedule (reviewed the night before) of when I’m prepping/cooking what day-of is gold. Having salad stuff for people to help with upon arrival is gold. Having all cooking ingredients portioned out for the final two courses to just throw on the stove while everyone’s eating is gold.

3) When people ask what they can bring: “White wine or a fish-themed dessert! Or if you’re feeling really ambitious, an appetizer (but it’s gotta have fish in it)!” We also bought an extra box of white wine in advance, and that rounded us out perfectly.

4) Drinks at 5:30. Dinner at 6. Make sure this is included in the initial invitation so everyone knows when to show up!

5) I served the courses in waves again this year: app as people arrived, then soup + salad, then peppers + asparagus, then pasta + salmon. (I like the waves concept rather than just everything on the table at one time.) This year, thanks to good advanced prepping (/extra time since people almost all arrived late, haha) and things warming in the oven, I got lots of table time - and the break before the main entrees was barely noticeable! (Though we had a party game planned just in case.)

6) I used 46 cloves of garlic. Bought it peeled and ready to go. Worth it, lol.

7) Best to do the big shop Wednesday the week-of, at the earliest (Thursday is probably better). Gives you enough time in case they’re out of anything, yet ensures the integrity of some of the produce; if you do it Thursday, it also means you can buy the fish fresh instead of frozen (salmon and cod). The cod can probably be frozen no problem, but the fresh salmon was really excellent if a reasonable option. (If high quality frozen’s the only option - good option still! - just keep in mind it’s super annoying to tear apart individual wrappers.)

8) Expect leftovers. Reserve leftovers for us FIRST, then give away at will! :)

9) 15 is a big number to cook for. Double check all ‘staples’ being used: we had to do a last minute run/neighbor call for Old Bay and Vermouth, since my regular on-hand stash was only half of what was needed for so many portions. Also, I slept in an extra five hours the next day: Plan for nothing the next morning and a generally low-key Sunday.

10) We did seat arrangements this year with little handwritten nameplates. Took a few minutes to work it out; it turned out great to balance the table! With 11 people, people on opposite ends didn’t interact much with each other (good place for the introverts!) but basically everyone else had a larger interaction-radius than I expected (2 people L&R, 3-4 people across).

11) After all the main courses, I did a cute little trivia (‘guess how many pounds of fish,’ ‘guess how many anchovies,’ ‘guess how many cloves of garlic’), then had the people with the closest guesses reach under their chairs - for a little trinket prize! (Spoiler: all the seats had trinkets under them :) For people new to the table, there were cute little pop-open mini-cards. For veteran Feasters, I printed out little photos (~2″x3″) of them+us from sometime over the last year. Everyone got a little candy cane wrapped up, too. It was great! I was originally trying to find crackers to put on everyone’s place setting this year (since I’d done the pop-up cards last year - didn’t want to repeat) but couldn’t find any. Not a big deal, though - I really liked how the photos turned out! I liked this little layer added in, and the nameplates worked well to personalize everyone’s.

I’ve hosted a LOT of potlucks in my time but really liked the sit-down-dining style of this dinner party with the multi-courses. Definitely a lot of work to do regularly but worth it once a year! Also one of the most interesting observations for me was being very full by the end of the night but not totally overstuffed and feeling grossly overeaten. I like to think that’s a testament to the well designed menu and dishes that - save one or two with some cream - were really pretty healthy. We also had a GREAT turnout for appetizers (goldfish snack!) and dessert (two parties brought tiyaki)! All in all, a WILD success and I can’t wait until Christmas next year!!