Onion epidermis lab
Strays - Episode 4 - "Harvest"
2024.05.13 15:26 ronlynne Strays - Episode 4 - "Harvest"
NOTE: This is my favorite episode of the Strays saga so far. Please enjoy! If you'd like to hear me read this story go here
2064 - Brownsville, Texas
Diego and Manuel stood silently while their grandparents spoke to the man. The boys should be celebrating their tenth birthday this week, but that wasn’t happening now. As the man started to nod their grandmother returned. She spoke to them in Spanish.
“My little ones. As we had feared we can’t send you both. Diego will go, he is younger.” Diego thought to himself ‘only by seven minutes,’ but his grandmother continued quickly. “Manuel will be our representative here, and Diego will go to space and start a new branch of our family tree.” Grandfather returned. They spoke in hushed tones a moment then turned back to the boys, shaking in the morning cold, holding hands tightly. Grandfather knelt in front of the boys, speaking in Spanish as well.
“My boys, there are great adventures ahead for you both. I know this is difficult, but you are strong, you have the name of warriors, and you will carry that name and make us proud, wherever you are. You are Tolama, and you represent us all.”
He was crying and the boys shook, trying not to cry. Grandma reached down and picked up Diego for a massive hug. Grandpa took him from her, squeezing him before setting him down next to his twin brother. Manuel tried to smile through tears as the boys embraced. Diego understood why he was leaving, and they both knew they might be separated. Hopefully Manuel would get on another ship. It didn’t make it easier.
The man that had spoken to his grandparents came over. “Time to go. Which one?” Trying to be brave, Diego turned to face him. He tried to speak but his ragged breath only made gasping sounds. The man smiled a warm smile. He took Diego’s hand. As they walked away he spoke to Diego in English, which, as his second language wasn’t that strong, but he understood enough. “Diego, right? I’m sorry I can’t take you both. My father decided to stay, demanding I take a child in his place.”
This had become common as people began to fear that the end of the world was nearing. Parts of humanity burned the Earth, while others tried to save some aspect of humanity, albeit not on this planet. The man continued.
“My name is Steven, and you are now a part of my family. My wife and daughter are already on board, so we need to hurry.”
On the ship, named “The Exiter,” (Stephen said it was a pun but Diego didn’t understand,) Steven closed the top of Diego’s sleeper pod. Diego watched him climb into the pod right next to him, looking at his family’s pods before closing the lid. Diego’s mind raced, what would happen? Where were they going? What kind of person was Stephen? His thoughts drifted to Manuel, and his grand-pa—re—n——
Diego drifted off to hibernation sleep.
2089 - The Exiter
Diego was awakened by a fist slamming on his sleeper pod. His mind was filled with cobwebs, his vision was blurry, and it took him a moment to remember where he was. The pounding continued. A woman was frantically trying to get his attention, he couldn’t make out her features, just a general shape. She was pointing at a red handle near his hand. He took a breath and the air burned. He coughed, which sent a jolt through him. His brain was foggy but he grabbed the handle and pulled, a vague memory that it was important to remember.
His pod opened and Diego smelled cooler air, still stale, but less painful. His eyes were focusing better but he still wasn’t sure what was going on. The woman spoke. “Are you the boy Steven brought on board?” Diego thought a moment then nodded. She breathed a steadying breath. “OK, come on out. I’m Linda, and this is my daughter Cassie. I’m afraid Steven didn’t make it.” She was so frantic that her voice barely cracked, although Cassie was sputtering through tears, holding tight to her mother’s leg. “The sleeper system has failed, several people didn’t make it.” This brought her to full tears as the two held onto each other. Diego was still fuzzy, barely remembering the events that had happened to him yesterday… or maybe longer? He looked up at Linda who pulled him into the embrace with Cassie. She gathered herself and smoothed her shirt before speaking.
“We are not even close to Proxima, this will be our home now. Maybe for the rest of our lives.” She looked at Diego, and Cassie, who was a bit taller than him but probably not much older. “And, this is our family. It is the three of us now. What is your last name?”
Diego spoke in a hushed tone, “Diego Tolama.”
Linda smiled. “That is a wonderful name Diego. Our last name is Kramer. You can use that as a middle name if you’d like, but keep Tolama, you will represent the family you left behind.”
Diego felt tears flood his eyes as he began to silently cry.
2100 - Exiter - Present Day
Diego was doing the same thing he did every morning, examining his crops. He had quickly learned about growing food in zero gravity, and had rapidly become the leader of the botanical department. It was quite possibly the most important job on the Exiter, or as many now called it, The Last Exit. Of course, the engineers who had managed to increase the speed of the ship got the most excited attention, but without Diego, they would have run out of food years ago.
A cup appeared in front of him, as Cassie joined him. “Coffee!” She smiled. He took the cup from his sister, and wondered how many rations she’d spent on it. Of course it was a special day so it was justified. Although he had managed to engineer several varieties of coffee and tea, coffee was a low yield crop in space, so it was more for special occasions.
Cassie sipped her coffee, smiling. “You know what today is?”
Diego returned her smile. “Of course I do. It’s Mom’s birthday.” She leaned on him as they smiled and sipped their special coffee. Before she passed Linda had loved coffee, often giving up a meal to get one cup in the morning. She was the reason Diego had spent so much time finding a way to grow coffee.
They had launched with more than a year’s worth of food and some water, as a means to survive the initial colonization on Proxima 2. It was obvious from the start that the food and water wouldn’t last. They had to grow food and recycle water.
The supplies they brought from Earth certainly had everything they needed, but recycling was so much more critical on the ship. They could not rely on finding ways to use local materials and supplies. Water was tricky. Diego had a knack for it, growing up on his grandparents’ farm had apparently left an imprint on him. His sister nudged him. “What’s your plan for the day?”
Diego smiled. “Tomatoes!”
She rolled her eyes. “It’s always tomatoes, or potatoes, or onions, or beets.” Diego interrupted her, “Someone has to make the food!”
They were both interrupted as Captain Lee came flying into the storage bay. He had unlocked his mag boots and was yelling to everyone to come into the large chamber. While the majority of the storage bay was dedicated to Diego’s farm, this was the largest space on the ship and still served as a gathering room.
Captain Lee drifted across the room until he bumped into the central beam, grabbing on to stop in the center of the room. Captain Lee was in his fifties, (Technically 25 years older, but hibernation doesn’t count,) and not as spry as he had been in his younger days. People aged differently in space, and some people didn’t do well. For him to practice these gymnastics meant he had some kind of good news, maybe another speed increase!
Captain Lee looked around to make sure everyone was present. “Folks, the Last Exit as flown it’s last kilometer. I have just been in communication with a ship from Earth.” The crowd looked around, had they come across another sleeper ship? Lee waited for the murmurs to quiet then continued. “It seems after we left the war ended and humanity rebuilt the Earth. They also solved faster than light travel and this ship, The Shepherd, has come to save us.” He looked around to gauge the crowd’s excitement. He yelled out “We can go home!” before spinning in the zero gravity.
Cassie approached Diego. “Hey, you haven’t packed.” Diego busied himself around his tomatoes, acting like he didn’t hear. “Diego, I know you don’t want to leave your gardens, but we can go home.” She pulled him to face her and realized he was crying. “What’s wrong?”
Diego took a deep breath, “Manuel died. All of my family is gone.” Cassie hugged him as he stood still, tears flowing. She grabbed his arms.
“I know it’s not the same, but you have me. We can start our families again, Kramer and Tolama, back on Earth. Diego, we can find new people. You can get married, I can get married. We can start new lives!”
Diego huffed, “I like this life. I have a purpose here!”
Cassie paused, “They have farms on Earth, but you can find a new purpose. You can go to school, learn to fly spaceships. You can do anything!”
Diego turned away. Cassie stood silent, unsure what to do. Everyone had already packed the few things to take with them. It was a simple task, and they were ready to leave. Crew members from the Shepherd had helped Diego harvest whatever food was ready. He seemed so happy, but now his garden was half empty. The remaining plants would die, and whenever the time came that a salvage team could retrieve the ship, which could be years, who knows what it would look like in here. Sadly, she put a hand on his shoulder and was about to speak when she heard a click.
Diego turned around and showed her the makeshift manacle he had on his wrist. The other end connected to a chain and was wrapped around the main post of the bay. He sat down, “I’m not going.”
She smiled at him sadly and shackled herself next to him.
Commander Klein rushed up to Captain Gardner, who was ushering passengers into their new space for the trip to Earth. They had room to pick up more Strays but if they didn’t find a ship in this sector, they would be back at Earth within the week. Commander Klein caught his breath. “Captain, we have a problem.” Gardner turned to him and seeing the concern on his face, ushered him to a corner away from the Exiter passengers.
“What is it Commander?”
Klein looked worried. “Remember the garden manager?” Gardner nodded. Klein took another breath, “He and his sister are chained to the ship’s structure. They won’t leave.”
Gardner frowned. It was an impressive garden, they would eat magnificently for a few days as they searched and returned to Earth. “Well let’s go talk to them.” Klein paused and Gardner realized there was more.
“Bren wanted to go document more of the botanical system, he was quite impressed. They chained him up with them.” Gardner’s brow furrowed. “Hostages?” Klein nodded as Gardner turned to go find out what was happening.
As Klein and Gardner walked to the airlock Jeffries joined them. “Captain?” Gardner looked at her, waiting. “Sir, I heard what’s happening. I spoke to Diego when we arrived. I grew up on a farm and Bren and I had taken an interest in his methodology. He’s solved several Zero-G botanical issues that we haven’t yet.”
Gardner grunted, “Yes, I’m sure it is impressive, but we can’t leave them.”
“Sir” She stepped in front of them causing all three to stop. “Can I try talking to him? I think I understand what he’s going through.” Gardner paused, waiting for an explanation. “Leaving my farm was the hardest thing I ever did. I knew I wanted to be a pilot but the farm was such a life affirming place. I get it. Maybe I can connect with him.”
Gardner thought a minute, looked at Klein, and agreed. “OK Lieutenant, you have fifteen minutes.” She nodded with determination and rushed off. Suddenly Gardner had another thought, “Don’t get yourself chained to the ship!”
The airlock led into a small room, then directly into the main storage bay. Bren sat on a stool, examining the various beds of vegetables. It really was an impressive setup. Diego stood and faced Jeffries defiantly. Cassie sat near the beam they were chained to. Jeffries tried to get a read on her but her face was blank.
“Diego, remember me?” Diego nodded. She continued, “My name is Isabella Jeffries, I’m the pilot on The Shepherd.” Diego stood silently. Cassie looked back and forth. Bren poked at chambers full of small green tomatoes, not ready to harvest. Jeffries stepped closer. “Diego, I grew up on a farm. We grew corn, beets, grains, alfalfa. I understand your connection to the gardens. I miss it.”
Diego spoke quietly. “No, you don’t. I was born in Arizona, but when I was six my parents were killed in a car accident. My twin brother and I went to Mexico to live with my grandparents.” He paused, looking at Cassie for strength. Bren looked on, as he felt the dirt cradles surrounding some root vegetables, too small to tell what they were. Diego went on, “It was three days before my tenth birthday that I got on this ship, while my brother stayed behind. My new father, Stephen Kramer died in a sleep pod malfunction, as did 33 others. I met my new mother Linda eleven years ago, she passed three years ago due to a simple illness we didn’t have the proper medication for. Today was her birthday. And you know about Manuel.” Cassie stood up and gently hugged him from the side. “My sister is all I have left, and my garden.” I can’t leave.
Cassie chimed in softly, “I go where Diego goes, he’s my only family.”
Jeffries took them in, imagining this must be what it felt like being separated from his brother. Unfortunately she already knew his brother had passed, she’s the one who looked up his family, and she delivered the news. “Diego, I can’t say I know just how you feel, I’ve lost people, but every story is different. But I did leave my farm, and I know how that felt.”
He interrupted her, his frustration rising, “No you don’t! You had another path. You became a pilot. Your farm kept going. This is my life’s work. I was happy to harvest all that food, but these plants still here, tomatoes, potatoes, lettuce, peppers, they’ll just die, and all this work will be gone.”
Bren noticed when he said potatoes, and examined the dirt cradles, impressed. He spoke up, “Lieutenant, have you seen his cradles for tubers?” Jeffries nodded. Bren spoke almost to himself, “Quite impressive, the Klaan could learn from Mr. Tolama.” Diego looked at Bren, trying not to lose his anger. Bren suddenly stood up, his mag boots clanking as he jumped. “And the tomato chambers, efficient. I understand The Shepherd has a space for botanical research?”
Jeffries picked up on Bren’s thought. “Yes Bren, we do, but it’s currently extra storage space, we haven’t quite mastered Zero-G growing. But, we have all the equipment, lights, irrigation, compost bins.”
Diego looked confused but Cassie caught on and turned to Diego. “Diego, what if we could get them to take this all with us, would you go then?”
Diego looked at her sadly, then looked around. “But this is our world.”
She took his hand, “I know, but Mom is gone, and the garden can come with us.” She looked at him a moment. “Our world is us, wherever we go, it’s you and me.”
Diego started crying again, as Jeffries got a beep on her communicator. She read a text note. “Diego, I know I told you you had no family, that isn’t true.” Diego looked at her curiously, his eyes red and tired. She read from the message on the communicator. “Your brother didn’t marry, but it seems he may have had a girlfriend, which isn’t in official records. Maria Alvarez, in Guadalajara. She has a daughter. I don’t know if that’s Manuel’s child, but you could at least meet Maria and hear what Manuel’s life was like. Her daughter’s name is Daniela.”
Diego gasped, “That was my mother’s name.” Cassie looked at him expectantly. Diego looked back at Jeffries, “We can take all of this?”
Jeffries nodded, “Yes, and I’m fairly certain our own botanists back on Earth would love to learn what you’ve done here. Bren seems quite impressed. You may already have a purpose on Earth.”
Bren nodded excitedly. “The irrigation systems are ingenious. Some sort of vacuum driven device?”
Diego nodded and reached down to his wrist, flipping a switch to unlock the cuff. He showed Bren who silently pushed the same switch and his cuff also fell away, floating gently away from him. Cassie flipped hers as well. Diego smiled sheepishly. “They don’t lock. We use them to stay attached to move up and down in the bay.”
Jeffries breathed a deep sigh, and gave Bren a questioning look. He raised his hands and shook them, a move that seemed equivalent to a shrug. She spoke into the communicator, “Captain, please send a moving team and clear space in the botany lab. We’re taking the gardens with us. Diego will supervise, and then we can all leave.”
Diego looked around the chamber, holding tightly on to Cassie’s hand. He smiled at her, knowing he wouldn’t leave his life's work, and he wouldn't lose another sibling.
submitted by ronlynne to HFY [link] [comments]
Diego and Manuel stood silently while their grandparents spoke to the man. The boys should be celebrating their tenth birthday this week, but that wasn’t happening now. As the man started to nod their grandmother returned. She spoke to them in Spanish.
“My little ones. As we had feared we can’t send you both. Diego will go, he is younger.” Diego thought to himself ‘only by seven minutes,’ but his grandmother continued quickly. “Manuel will be our representative here, and Diego will go to space and start a new branch of our family tree.” Grandfather returned. They spoke in hushed tones a moment then turned back to the boys, shaking in the morning cold, holding hands tightly. Grandfather knelt in front of the boys, speaking in Spanish as well.
“My boys, there are great adventures ahead for you both. I know this is difficult, but you are strong, you have the name of warriors, and you will carry that name and make us proud, wherever you are. You are Tolama, and you represent us all.”
He was crying and the boys shook, trying not to cry. Grandma reached down and picked up Diego for a massive hug. Grandpa took him from her, squeezing him before setting him down next to his twin brother. Manuel tried to smile through tears as the boys embraced. Diego understood why he was leaving, and they both knew they might be separated. Hopefully Manuel would get on another ship. It didn’t make it easier.
The man that had spoken to his grandparents came over. “Time to go. Which one?” Trying to be brave, Diego turned to face him. He tried to speak but his ragged breath only made gasping sounds. The man smiled a warm smile. He took Diego’s hand. As they walked away he spoke to Diego in English, which, as his second language wasn’t that strong, but he understood enough. “Diego, right? I’m sorry I can’t take you both. My father decided to stay, demanding I take a child in his place.”
This had become common as people began to fear that the end of the world was nearing. Parts of humanity burned the Earth, while others tried to save some aspect of humanity, albeit not on this planet. The man continued.
“My name is Steven, and you are now a part of my family. My wife and daughter are already on board, so we need to hurry.”
On the ship, named “The Exiter,” (Stephen said it was a pun but Diego didn’t understand,) Steven closed the top of Diego’s sleeper pod. Diego watched him climb into the pod right next to him, looking at his family’s pods before closing the lid. Diego’s mind raced, what would happen? Where were they going? What kind of person was Stephen? His thoughts drifted to Manuel, and his grand-pa—re—n——
Diego drifted off to hibernation sleep.
Diego was awakened by a fist slamming on his sleeper pod. His mind was filled with cobwebs, his vision was blurry, and it took him a moment to remember where he was. The pounding continued. A woman was frantically trying to get his attention, he couldn’t make out her features, just a general shape. She was pointing at a red handle near his hand. He took a breath and the air burned. He coughed, which sent a jolt through him. His brain was foggy but he grabbed the handle and pulled, a vague memory that it was important to remember.
His pod opened and Diego smelled cooler air, still stale, but less painful. His eyes were focusing better but he still wasn’t sure what was going on. The woman spoke. “Are you the boy Steven brought on board?” Diego thought a moment then nodded. She breathed a steadying breath. “OK, come on out. I’m Linda, and this is my daughter Cassie. I’m afraid Steven didn’t make it.” She was so frantic that her voice barely cracked, although Cassie was sputtering through tears, holding tight to her mother’s leg. “The sleeper system has failed, several people didn’t make it.” This brought her to full tears as the two held onto each other. Diego was still fuzzy, barely remembering the events that had happened to him yesterday… or maybe longer? He looked up at Linda who pulled him into the embrace with Cassie. She gathered herself and smoothed her shirt before speaking.
“We are not even close to Proxima, this will be our home now. Maybe for the rest of our lives.” She looked at Diego, and Cassie, who was a bit taller than him but probably not much older. “And, this is our family. It is the three of us now. What is your last name?”
Diego spoke in a hushed tone, “Diego Tolama.”
Linda smiled. “That is a wonderful name Diego. Our last name is Kramer. You can use that as a middle name if you’d like, but keep Tolama, you will represent the family you left behind.”
Diego felt tears flood his eyes as he began to silently cry.
Diego was doing the same thing he did every morning, examining his crops. He had quickly learned about growing food in zero gravity, and had rapidly become the leader of the botanical department. It was quite possibly the most important job on the Exiter, or as many now called it, The Last Exit. Of course, the engineers who had managed to increase the speed of the ship got the most excited attention, but without Diego, they would have run out of food years ago.
A cup appeared in front of him, as Cassie joined him. “Coffee!” She smiled. He took the cup from his sister, and wondered how many rations she’d spent on it. Of course it was a special day so it was justified. Although he had managed to engineer several varieties of coffee and tea, coffee was a low yield crop in space, so it was more for special occasions.
Cassie sipped her coffee, smiling. “You know what today is?”
Diego returned her smile. “Of course I do. It’s Mom’s birthday.” She leaned on him as they smiled and sipped their special coffee. Before she passed Linda had loved coffee, often giving up a meal to get one cup in the morning. She was the reason Diego had spent so much time finding a way to grow coffee.
They had launched with more than a year’s worth of food and some water, as a means to survive the initial colonization on Proxima 2. It was obvious from the start that the food and water wouldn’t last. They had to grow food and recycle water.
The supplies they brought from Earth certainly had everything they needed, but recycling was so much more critical on the ship. They could not rely on finding ways to use local materials and supplies. Water was tricky. Diego had a knack for it, growing up on his grandparents’ farm had apparently left an imprint on him. His sister nudged him. “What’s your plan for the day?”
Diego smiled. “Tomatoes!”
She rolled her eyes. “It’s always tomatoes, or potatoes, or onions, or beets.” Diego interrupted her, “Someone has to make the food!”
They were both interrupted as Captain Lee came flying into the storage bay. He had unlocked his mag boots and was yelling to everyone to come into the large chamber. While the majority of the storage bay was dedicated to Diego’s farm, this was the largest space on the ship and still served as a gathering room.
Captain Lee drifted across the room until he bumped into the central beam, grabbing on to stop in the center of the room. Captain Lee was in his fifties, (Technically 25 years older, but hibernation doesn’t count,) and not as spry as he had been in his younger days. People aged differently in space, and some people didn’t do well. For him to practice these gymnastics meant he had some kind of good news, maybe another speed increase!
Captain Lee looked around to make sure everyone was present. “Folks, the Last Exit as flown it’s last kilometer. I have just been in communication with a ship from Earth.” The crowd looked around, had they come across another sleeper ship? Lee waited for the murmurs to quiet then continued. “It seems after we left the war ended and humanity rebuilt the Earth. They also solved faster than light travel and this ship, The Shepherd, has come to save us.” He looked around to gauge the crowd’s excitement. He yelled out “We can go home!” before spinning in the zero gravity.
Diego took a deep breath, “Manuel died. All of my family is gone.” Cassie hugged him as he stood still, tears flowing. She grabbed his arms.
“I know it’s not the same, but you have me. We can start our families again, Kramer and Tolama, back on Earth. Diego, we can find new people. You can get married, I can get married. We can start new lives!”
Diego huffed, “I like this life. I have a purpose here!”
Cassie paused, “They have farms on Earth, but you can find a new purpose. You can go to school, learn to fly spaceships. You can do anything!”
Diego turned away. Cassie stood silent, unsure what to do. Everyone had already packed the few things to take with them. It was a simple task, and they were ready to leave. Crew members from the Shepherd had helped Diego harvest whatever food was ready. He seemed so happy, but now his garden was half empty. The remaining plants would die, and whenever the time came that a salvage team could retrieve the ship, which could be years, who knows what it would look like in here. Sadly, she put a hand on his shoulder and was about to speak when she heard a click.
Diego turned around and showed her the makeshift manacle he had on his wrist. The other end connected to a chain and was wrapped around the main post of the bay. He sat down, “I’m not going.”
She smiled at him sadly and shackled herself next to him.
“What is it Commander?”
Klein looked worried. “Remember the garden manager?” Gardner nodded. Klein took another breath, “He and his sister are chained to the ship’s structure. They won’t leave.”
Gardner frowned. It was an impressive garden, they would eat magnificently for a few days as they searched and returned to Earth. “Well let’s go talk to them.” Klein paused and Gardner realized there was more.
“Bren wanted to go document more of the botanical system, he was quite impressed. They chained him up with them.” Gardner’s brow furrowed. “Hostages?” Klein nodded as Gardner turned to go find out what was happening.
As Klein and Gardner walked to the airlock Jeffries joined them. “Captain?” Gardner looked at her, waiting. “Sir, I heard what’s happening. I spoke to Diego when we arrived. I grew up on a farm and Bren and I had taken an interest in his methodology. He’s solved several Zero-G botanical issues that we haven’t yet.”
Gardner grunted, “Yes, I’m sure it is impressive, but we can’t leave them.”
“Sir” She stepped in front of them causing all three to stop. “Can I try talking to him? I think I understand what he’s going through.” Gardner paused, waiting for an explanation. “Leaving my farm was the hardest thing I ever did. I knew I wanted to be a pilot but the farm was such a life affirming place. I get it. Maybe I can connect with him.”
Gardner thought a minute, looked at Klein, and agreed. “OK Lieutenant, you have fifteen minutes.” She nodded with determination and rushed off. Suddenly Gardner had another thought, “Don’t get yourself chained to the ship!”
“Diego, remember me?” Diego nodded. She continued, “My name is Isabella Jeffries, I’m the pilot on The Shepherd.” Diego stood silently. Cassie looked back and forth. Bren poked at chambers full of small green tomatoes, not ready to harvest. Jeffries stepped closer. “Diego, I grew up on a farm. We grew corn, beets, grains, alfalfa. I understand your connection to the gardens. I miss it.”
Diego spoke quietly. “No, you don’t. I was born in Arizona, but when I was six my parents were killed in a car accident. My twin brother and I went to Mexico to live with my grandparents.” He paused, looking at Cassie for strength. Bren looked on, as he felt the dirt cradles surrounding some root vegetables, too small to tell what they were. Diego went on, “It was three days before my tenth birthday that I got on this ship, while my brother stayed behind. My new father, Stephen Kramer died in a sleep pod malfunction, as did 33 others. I met my new mother Linda eleven years ago, she passed three years ago due to a simple illness we didn’t have the proper medication for. Today was her birthday. And you know about Manuel.” Cassie stood up and gently hugged him from the side. “My sister is all I have left, and my garden.” I can’t leave.
Cassie chimed in softly, “I go where Diego goes, he’s my only family.”
Jeffries took them in, imagining this must be what it felt like being separated from his brother. Unfortunately she already knew his brother had passed, she’s the one who looked up his family, and she delivered the news. “Diego, I can’t say I know just how you feel, I’ve lost people, but every story is different. But I did leave my farm, and I know how that felt.”
He interrupted her, his frustration rising, “No you don’t! You had another path. You became a pilot. Your farm kept going. This is my life’s work. I was happy to harvest all that food, but these plants still here, tomatoes, potatoes, lettuce, peppers, they’ll just die, and all this work will be gone.”
Bren noticed when he said potatoes, and examined the dirt cradles, impressed. He spoke up, “Lieutenant, have you seen his cradles for tubers?” Jeffries nodded. Bren spoke almost to himself, “Quite impressive, the Klaan could learn from Mr. Tolama.” Diego looked at Bren, trying not to lose his anger. Bren suddenly stood up, his mag boots clanking as he jumped. “And the tomato chambers, efficient. I understand The Shepherd has a space for botanical research?”
Jeffries picked up on Bren’s thought. “Yes Bren, we do, but it’s currently extra storage space, we haven’t quite mastered Zero-G growing. But, we have all the equipment, lights, irrigation, compost bins.”
Diego looked confused but Cassie caught on and turned to Diego. “Diego, what if we could get them to take this all with us, would you go then?”
Diego looked at her sadly, then looked around. “But this is our world.”
She took his hand, “I know, but Mom is gone, and the garden can come with us.” She looked at him a moment. “Our world is us, wherever we go, it’s you and me.”
Diego started crying again, as Jeffries got a beep on her communicator. She read a text note. “Diego, I know I told you you had no family, that isn’t true.” Diego looked at her curiously, his eyes red and tired. She read from the message on the communicator. “Your brother didn’t marry, but it seems he may have had a girlfriend, which isn’t in official records. Maria Alvarez, in Guadalajara. She has a daughter. I don’t know if that’s Manuel’s child, but you could at least meet Maria and hear what Manuel’s life was like. Her daughter’s name is Daniela.”
Diego gasped, “That was my mother’s name.” Cassie looked at him expectantly. Diego looked back at Jeffries, “We can take all of this?”
Jeffries nodded, “Yes, and I’m fairly certain our own botanists back on Earth would love to learn what you’ve done here. Bren seems quite impressed. You may already have a purpose on Earth.”
Bren nodded excitedly. “The irrigation systems are ingenious. Some sort of vacuum driven device?”
Diego nodded and reached down to his wrist, flipping a switch to unlock the cuff. He showed Bren who silently pushed the same switch and his cuff also fell away, floating gently away from him. Cassie flipped hers as well. Diego smiled sheepishly. “They don’t lock. We use them to stay attached to move up and down in the bay.”
Jeffries breathed a deep sigh, and gave Bren a questioning look. He raised his hands and shook them, a move that seemed equivalent to a shrug. She spoke into the communicator, “Captain, please send a moving team and clear space in the botany lab. We’re taking the gardens with us. Diego will supervise, and then we can all leave.”
Diego looked around the chamber, holding tightly on to Cassie’s hand. He smiled at her, knowing he wouldn’t leave his life's work, and he wouldn't lose another sibling.
2024.05.13 04:57 Mommyssweetgirl Diagnosed Last Week
Hi all, I’m new here, so I’m just learning about ARFID. My doctor diagnosed me with ARFID this last week after a few years of unintentional weight loss (27 lbs in two years, but most of it was lost in late 2023 into 2024, though it was a steady decrease) and other symptoms. I lost another pound between my last appointment and the most recent, which was probably a month—she had hoped I had plateaued. She had me do labs over that time period and check in with her, appointments, etc. and her final conclusion after everything was ARFID. I do not disagree. I didn’t know this even existed, but when she talked to me and I later read more about it I realized that ARFID describes me to a T. She is very concerned because now I am experiencing low blood pressure, sometimes getting into the 80s/50s, and feeling faint.
My doctor referred me to a nutritionist and a psychologist, although I was already seeing a therapist (who is an LSCW). My appointment with the nutritionist is in about a week and a half, they called to schedule the next day after being diagnosed. I’m wondering if my doctor’s concern may have expedited the referrals, because I also had the referral call for the psychologist but unfortunately couldn’t talk when they called due to being at work.
Ever since I was little I’ve had issues with food mostly based on the texture or how I think my body will react to it. My parents used to make me sit at the table when I was younger (probably like age 4 ish? and on) until I ate my food, and they would always step away and eventually come back to me asleep in my food. They would have to compromise with me just so I would eat. It didn’t matter how hungry I was, I wouldn’t touch it if I didn’t like it.
I don’t eat red sauces (except for a small amount on pizza) because I just know it will make my stomach hurt. My mom always separated spaghetti sauce from the noodles and everything for me first because she knew I would not eat if she didn’t, so she would serve me first and combine everything. I don’t eat onions, peppers, blueberries, lettuce, etc. all because of the texture. I told my doctor about these as well as other preferences and social insecurities around food which all solidified her diagnosis. I’m very particular, and all of my friends know it—often joking that I’m such a picky eater. Lately, because of the weight loss, everyone at work comments about my appearance which has been very uncomfortable to navigate for me. I never know how to answer or respond, especially because I am a manager and am Human Resources at my workplace, and they know they should not be saying things about people’s bodies or appearances. I have went over it many times in our meetings, and have come close to just using myself as an example and sharing my struggle so they will stop.
Anyway, I’m not really sure the point of this post other than I’m not really sure what will happen in the next month or what treatment looks like. My doctor’s concern is making me question how severe she thinks it is, as she didn’t say but she made it very clear that she is worried. She has never been like that with me, I’ve seen her for probably four years now, and she is sort of blunt when I go to her with something that is nothing to worry about. She kept doing labs and whatnot because I kept pushing the envelope I thought, but she had said that before the diagnosis, she “honestly had no clue what to do with my case” because in every other regard I’m the picture of health (aside from these symptoms and having narcolepsy). Our appointment was just a follow up on labs and a check in with the weight and any other concerns, so I was a little blindsided but also I saw it coming in a way. I had told a friend the week prior, “if they don’t find anything wrong in the labs then I must have an ED or something without knowing it”, and sure enough…… lol. I didn’t mention that to my doctor at all prior to the appointment. It’s also probably important to mention that in middle school I struggled with anorexia a bit, but never got treatment specifically for that. I did however go to a residential program for depression and other things at one time and graduated.
Anyway, I would love to hear your journey, stories, advice, anything really as I have no clue what is next. Thanks for reading.
submitted by Mommyssweetgirl to ARFID [link] [comments]
My doctor referred me to a nutritionist and a psychologist, although I was already seeing a therapist (who is an LSCW). My appointment with the nutritionist is in about a week and a half, they called to schedule the next day after being diagnosed. I’m wondering if my doctor’s concern may have expedited the referrals, because I also had the referral call for the psychologist but unfortunately couldn’t talk when they called due to being at work.
Ever since I was little I’ve had issues with food mostly based on the texture or how I think my body will react to it. My parents used to make me sit at the table when I was younger (probably like age 4 ish? and on) until I ate my food, and they would always step away and eventually come back to me asleep in my food. They would have to compromise with me just so I would eat. It didn’t matter how hungry I was, I wouldn’t touch it if I didn’t like it.
I don’t eat red sauces (except for a small amount on pizza) because I just know it will make my stomach hurt. My mom always separated spaghetti sauce from the noodles and everything for me first because she knew I would not eat if she didn’t, so she would serve me first and combine everything. I don’t eat onions, peppers, blueberries, lettuce, etc. all because of the texture. I told my doctor about these as well as other preferences and social insecurities around food which all solidified her diagnosis. I’m very particular, and all of my friends know it—often joking that I’m such a picky eater. Lately, because of the weight loss, everyone at work comments about my appearance which has been very uncomfortable to navigate for me. I never know how to answer or respond, especially because I am a manager and am Human Resources at my workplace, and they know they should not be saying things about people’s bodies or appearances. I have went over it many times in our meetings, and have come close to just using myself as an example and sharing my struggle so they will stop.
Anyway, I’m not really sure the point of this post other than I’m not really sure what will happen in the next month or what treatment looks like. My doctor’s concern is making me question how severe she thinks it is, as she didn’t say but she made it very clear that she is worried. She has never been like that with me, I’ve seen her for probably four years now, and she is sort of blunt when I go to her with something that is nothing to worry about. She kept doing labs and whatnot because I kept pushing the envelope I thought, but she had said that before the diagnosis, she “honestly had no clue what to do with my case” because in every other regard I’m the picture of health (aside from these symptoms and having narcolepsy). Our appointment was just a follow up on labs and a check in with the weight and any other concerns, so I was a little blindsided but also I saw it coming in a way. I had told a friend the week prior, “if they don’t find anything wrong in the labs then I must have an ED or something without knowing it”, and sure enough…… lol. I didn’t mention that to my doctor at all prior to the appointment. It’s also probably important to mention that in middle school I struggled with anorexia a bit, but never got treatment specifically for that. I did however go to a residential program for depression and other things at one time and graduated.
Anyway, I would love to hear your journey, stories, advice, anything really as I have no clue what is next. Thanks for reading.
2024.05.12 20:49 Traditional-Law-5452 Downtown Flavortown
 | Most of them will post the rest when available and it’s quite a few so prepare for the photo dump and possibly a few repeats submitted by Traditional-Law-5452 to TopSecretRecipes [link] [comments] |
2024.05.12 09:28 Ok_Jellyfish_3010 Should I be concerned about 13yr old female bloodwork?
 | My daughter has had iron deficiency a few times throughout her life, typically with only mild anemia or without anemia. What’s concerning to me is after starting an iron supplement again at the end of January, I’m not sure we are seeing as much increase as I think we should. For background, she was diagnosed with celiac disease December 2022 with transglutiminase iga of 236 and marsh 3a for villous blunting on biopsy. Transglutiminase iga decreased to 82 in July 2023, then to 64 at the end of January. The GI doc expected a bigger decrease from July to January numbers and thinks she is getting gluten, but we are really careful. I’m sure we are not perfect and she could have had some minor cross contamination but definitely nothing much. Anyway, so I know celiac disease can cause malabsorption of iron. She was on an iron supplement for quite awhile by the time of celiac diagnosis and then per GI doc, supplement was stopped July 2023. When her bloodwork was ran again January 2024, her iron was deficient again and she was slightly anemic. Iron supplement was started again. Then in March some bloodwork came back positive for thyroglobulin antibodies, normal TSH. It was just tested again and TSH is still normal and free T4 is also normal. Since January 26, her iron levels went up slightly with daily iron supplement. Iron levels went up 3 points (from 33 to 36), iron binding capacity is back in normal limits, ferritin went from 18 to 46 (neither values are out of limits), iron saturation went from 7 to 9, hgb went from 11.7 Jan 26, 12.1 Feb 14, 12.5 March 22, then 12.0 on May 10. Wouldn’t you think that with 3 months of supplements that we would see a better increase in iron saturation and hemoglobin? Also, her mchc is still low, and rdw is still high. Another concerning lab value is her esr increased from 35 in Nov 2022 bloodwork (this is when her transglutiminase was first tested and biopsy was scheduled) to 64 in March 2024. If celiac was causing the high esr wouldn’t you think it would decrease with strict gluten free diet? Her crp was normal in both Nov 2022 and March 2024. She has struggled for years with fatigue that has gotten even worse, not better, as well as headaches, depression, and anxiety. She regularly complains her back hurts and this afternoon complained her hands hurt, assuming because she played the piano for a little while early in the morning. We are currently exploring possibly of pots bc her heart rate increases when moving from sitting to standing, and with slow walking is typically 115 to 130. She has complained for years about feeling like she is going to fall over after getting up especially from bed. I’m sorry this got so long, there is just a lot of factors for her. As her pediatrician said, we are trying to peel back the onion. I thought the fatigue and headaches would get better with going gluten free after the celiac diagnosis but it hasn’t. She currently has upcoming appointments with brain MRI at the end of May, then pediatric neurologist in July and ophthalmologist in August. Forgot to add that her iop was a little high and optic nerve had increased in size since last year at April regular eye checkup. Further testing with Goldman pressure test was 21 in one eye and 20 in other eye. OCT showed some optic nerve fiber loss, possible slight peripheral vision loss in left eye, and increased cup to disc ratio. This has been a whirlwind few years and I want to get to the bottom of everything. submitted by Ok_Jellyfish_3010 to Anemic [link] [comments] |
2024.05.11 05:54 kindajustlikewhat Stylevana Box + extra haul
 | I reeeaally wanted to try the Stylekorean boxes but was reading that Canadians got majorly dinged with customs... So decided to try the Stylevana one instead. submitted by kindajustlikewhat to AsianBeauty [link] [comments] One item hidden to follow sub rules. Vana-versary box: Purito SEOUL Wonder Releaf Centella Serum Unscented iUNIK Centella Calming Daily Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Soothing Cream Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Cleanser Haruharu WONDER Black Rice Bakuchiol Eye Cream [Redacted item] Non box items: Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+ PA++++ (purchased to up cart to qualify for coupon) Free items with coupon: SOME BY MI - Retinol Intense Reactivating Mask Isntree - Onion Newpair Gel Cream CELIMAX - Noni Ultimate Eye Cream |
2024.05.08 00:57 Nxx_Analysis Card Review : Luke - Spice and Synergy
Heeeeey ! I’m back with a review and managed to tackle it entirely before the HSR update (yes I play the game). Also sorry for the weird/lack of formatting, we don't have internet anymore for a (long ?) while and my data are too poor for my laptop to use properly, but I did my best on phone. Without further ado, let’s start !
Card review : Luke - Spice and Synergy
As always, the notation is subjective, especially the art one.
Art : 4.5/5
Story plot : 9/10
Story writing : 5/5
Total : 18.5/20
Review summary :
After finishing a co-op game together, Luke and Rosa decide to register in a cooking vlog competition related to the game in order to win limited edition merch. In a warm, cozy and harmonious atmosphere, they tackle this challenge which will bring unforgettable memories.
Review act per act :
Act 1
Luke is tossing ingredients in a frying pan from far away and as the oil is splattering, Rosa hurriedly gives him the lid as a protection. Luke comments that cooking felt more like a physical skill test than any combat. Rosa confirms, remembering how she mentioned trying to challenge themselves to cook. A few hours ago. As the credit of the game finished rolling, Luke and Rosa finally got the perfect ending in a game called Monster Kitchen. Rosa complains on how hard the last stage was, Luke agreeing and saying the game should have been called Torture Kitchen instead. Rosa recalls how they had to avoid traps, collect ingredients in a maze to be able to cook a dish called Surf and Turf to convince the devil in the castle. She says that the guides were correct when they said getting the perfect end was a matter of luck before collapsing into bed like Luke, who immediately hugs her. He says that it's not totally luck since it's because of their marvelous cooperation. He takes his phone and asks her what she wants to eat as a celebration. Rosa tells him she is going to check reviews and recommendations. As she is taking her phone, she is distracted by a Big Data Lab notification, sharing with her an article Sherluke_Polmes, an account Luke created to play Monster Kitchen, was just reading. She clicks on the article and sees it's a Monster Kitchen Culinary Competition, which consists of bringing the food from the game to reality by recording and uploading vlogs. The prize includes limited-edition merch, absolutely unique in the world. Rosa looks at Luke and she sees that he is reading the same page but he looks conflicted. She guesses he really wants the merch but considering both of their skills with cooking it might be difficult. But still, Rosa thinks that since they only have to recreate the dishes on a visual level, they still have a chance. Feeling confident, she asks Luke if he wants to join. He asks the question back and Rosa guesses that he is worried about her pushing herself to do something she doesn't want, since Monster Kitchen is a coop-game, so must the competition be, meaning they would have to enter together. She tells him that she wants to and seeing how confident she looks, he agreed too. But they underestimated their task severely. Back in the present moment, they keep on coughing as Luke turns the fume extractor on. Inside the pan is burnt rice and sauce, stuck to the bottom. Luke complains, saying he was following exactly what the cooking guide which came with the guide said. As he is doing so, smoke starts to rise again from the pan, so Rosa pulls him away, asking if he is fine. Luke says he is but on another side looks disappointed. Rosa wonders if the substitute they used wasn't good enough. Since the ingredients in the game have particular lore and background, they obviously can't find them in real life, so they used substitutes with similar looking stuff, but it failed. Rosa complains how hard it is and Luke mentions they have to buy new ingredients. Luke rubs his eyes and then explains to a worried Rosa that smoke must have got into it and he is going to wash them. Rosa checks his eye and it is red and teary. She takes a wet wipe and softly cleans the corner of his eye. Luke then blinks several times and explains that he might still have onion's juice on his hands so it might explain... He is suddenly interrupted by a loud noise. On the other side of the kitchen, white smoke is coming out from the pot they forgot where they were making soup. Luke instinctively takes Rosa in his arms to protect her from the erupting water. Panicked, she asks him if he was okay, fearing that some boiling water burned him.
Sher(lock)luke_P(earce)(H)olmes, what a genius username I love this so much hahaha ! I wonder how it is in other languages… Also Luke Rosa living the most awesome cozy dream of being a gamer couple, I live for it, like, isn't it literally the dream to just spend time with your partner (or one of your friends) playing co-op-games together and frequently ? Wow, I would love to have this omg
Act 2
Rosa asks Luke if he is okay, which he confirms but knowing him. Keeping her in his arms, he turns off the stove. Rosa asks him to see his back and before he can stop her, she tugs on his shirt and pulls his collar. She sees how red the back of his neck is red. Rosa asks him if he needs to go to the hospital but he refuses saying it's not worth. Luke reassures her again as she was expressing her worry, adding that he needs to change now since he is dirty. Rosa tells him she is going to fetch the first aid kit in case and he agrees. He wants to touch her cheek as an habit but since he is covered in oil and stains, he stops and simply says that he will be back. Rosa is searching for the first aid kit and when she takes it out, a medal falls at the same time. It seems pretty worn out and has the words "Gold Medal in Microbiology Fun Lab Competition" written in front and "National Central University" in the back. Luke comes out of the shower at this moment so Rosa tells him she found the medal while searching for the first aid kit. He asks her if she is curious about it and she tells him that she is but that he is the most important right now. Rosa wraps her arms around his waist and look at his back but Luke tells her there's no need to check as he already did and he is just a bit red. He takes her hands to stop her and she insists. Giving up, he turns his back to her so that she can check. Indeed, there are only small red parts on his back which isn't serious. He tells her that it doesn't need the hospital and she agrees. Luke comments on how he must work on gaining her confidence next time before commenting that it was a good trade. She doesn't understand so he gets closer to her and says that they have to get the ultimate victory before getting a champion medal in Monster Kitchen but he got a champion medal now without even winning anything. She laughs, then tell him to settle down so that she can check for sure if he is fine. He tenses up as she continues to examine him. At some point she asks him to turn, which he reluctantly does and she discovers a crimson swathe which he was hiding. Luke struggles to explain himself and Rosa grabs him before he manages to escape. Commenting on how he needs to improve his reliability, she tells him to let her treat him. She tells him to lay on his stomach on the bed while she applies ointment and he obeys without saying anything. Looking more closely, even the splotches on his back seem very red. As Rosa starts applying it, she asks if it hurts and Luke says that it doesn't and she can even press harder if needed. He burries his head into his arms while she continues asking how he feels. Luke asks to stop since he hasn't cleaned up the kitchen yet but Rosa, starting to feel hot and ticklish, insists on treating him first. Luke relents and rests on his elbow. Rosa guesses he also feels awkward in the situation so she changes the topic to the medal she found earlier by asking him how he got it. He explains that it was worth an experiment where they used microbes as ink to draw shapes on a petri dish. Rosa asks him about it by repeating what he said but she is distracted by her feelings as she is treating him. Luke explains to her how it works and she comments that it sounds hard. He denies and as he continues to explain, he lets out a grunt, which worries Rosa, who asks him if she hurts him. He denies, telling that he is just not used to being touched there and she can continue. Luke turns to her and smiles to reassure her and as she is about to resume, a phone call interrupts the moment. Luke picks up his phone and freezes as he was about to stand up as his habit. Rosa tells him she is going to continue putting ointment while he is talking to the phone. On the other side of the line is an event organizer for the Monster Kitchen vlog contest, who is calling to check the participants' information. To not disturb him, Rosa tries to be more careful and delicate but it backfires, making Luke grunt once again. He however manages to continue his phone call. Once it's over, suddenly, he jumps out of bed and their positions are quickly reversed. He complains to her that she probably did it on purpose. Rosa denies, but he says doesn't trust her. He nuzzles her nose with his, starts caressing her face, and says how he almost made weird noises on the phone so she must pay for mental damage she caused to his psyche. Rosa asks him how she's going to pay that, and he tells her to figure it out. She hugs him and nuzzles her nose like he did earlier. She asks him if it's enough and Luke says no, so she adds that she is going to help him clean the house and think of a way to solve their kitchen problem too. Luke sighs loudly before kissing her. He then says that now it's a worthy compensation. She hugs him, touched by his gesture.
They are so funny and cute and Rosa knows how little care Luke has for himself so the fact she knew he got burnt more than he let on was satisfying kinda.
Act 3
They tidy up everything, then take off the curtains, bedding, Luke's clothes and wash them. Once done, they each carry a basket of laundry downstairs. In the courtyard, a lot of other residents’ beddings are already hung outside. Luke picks an empty corner to set the clothesline then, as he waves at Rosa, he calls her "dear" and asks her to hand her the "item". She realizes he just said a line from Monster Kitchen so she answers back with a line from the game while handing him bedsheets. He recites another line as an answer and she feels a bit flustered. Rosa tells him to stop and work or they won't be able to dry this today but Luke jokingly answers that he calculated that they should still be able to dry even if they layer them. Rosa asks him if he can calculate things like that and asks if he has a laundry guide. He starts hanging the sheets she hands him and confirms what she just said, adding that the guides are his exclusive tricks so he will only tell about them with certain conditions. He says she should get full score achievement in the "Monster Kitchen Castle Combat" like they did in the game and he will think about how to do that in real life. What he mentioned is a challenge triggered each time the player doesn't complete the cleaning task as the requirements, where the protagonists need to build a maze castle with bedsheets before beginning a chase. When one side wins more than 100 times, they get the extra achievement. Rosa says they don't have a castle IRL, then covers Luke with a bedsheet, saying that the combat part is still doable. Luke, surprised, lifts the sheets and says no ambushes allowed. Rosa gets back saying that it's fair in love and war and he always ambushes her in game. He counters saying he lets her know every time in advance. He lifts the bedsheet even more, telling that it won't be easy the next round. Rosa asks who said there was a next round and why don't they wrap it with only one round since it happens like that in Monster Kitchen Castle Combat. She announces she is going to make her victory speech and Luke argues that he just let her win but he agrees to listen to her. She starts by calling him Monster warrior and asking for his laundry secret. While laughing, he agrees to tell her : his secret is the thermodynamic equation. By applying them to the sunlight intensity, the temperature and humidity, you can get results. Rosa asked how he even thought about doing that and he tells her it's because of the medal she found earlier. Luke explains that since microbes needs specific conditions to grow, he did plenty of preparation before the competition. He suddenly think about how they should approach their recreation the Surf and Turf dish using the same way. Rosa asks if he suggests using science to do it and he confirms, saying they should disassemble the task into a scientific experiment. Seemingly excited, Luke explains that he was thinking about it since she found the medal and now that they talked about thermodynamics he got a clearer idea. She reaches out to him, saying she is "ready to complete the greatest challenge of her life with him" and asks about him, with a line from the game, said right before the final battle. He answers with a line from the game too and after putting the bedsheet over their head as a veil, he gently kisses her, saying he "needs to borrow some courage from her before the challenge". She softly answers that she will need to borrow some too.
Okaaaaay so I never understood his living place like this ?? Wdym other residents ?? I thought he owned a 3 floor kind of residence/house with his antique shop, detective agency and private apartment on each of those floors so he had no close enough neighbors to share stuff with them… Or is that like a housing residence with a common courtyard in the back but everyone has his own house ? On another side they are so cuteeeeeee Luke's smile is a 10/10 there, he looks so soft and pure awnnn
Act 4
At 4PM, they pick up the dried curtains and sheets before going to buy some other ingredients. The rules indicate that they have two days after registering to submit their video so the deadline is the next day, in the evening. They don't have the time to replace the broken pressure cooker where the soup was nor the also broken electrical stove on which it was cooking, so they head to Rosa's house instead to cook. After dinner, they check the ingredients they bought and Luke estimates that with the amount they got they have at least five attempts to make the dish. Luke writes in his notebook their ingredients and the issues they have encountered previously as well as solutions to those. Rosa comments on how she really feels like it's an experiment and Luke tells her he has to be meticulous with it especially since it'll help later. He writes the lines describing the dish from the game and pauses, asking out loud what they are going to do for the sauce recipe. Rosa comments that doing the same as in game will be hard so maybe they should stick to their previous method of using substitutes. Luke says that's a good idea but it would require a number of experiments. She tells him they can take the time to do so. She takes his hand, exactly like the protagonists from Monster Kitchen do every time, and quotes a line, telling him their fight is about to begin. He answers with a line from the game too, looking at her tenderly. After a while, they have a table full of saucer with different sauces, their failed experiments. Rosa asks Luke which version they are working on and he answers the version 34, which is too sour. Luke, along with the observations they previously made, lists the ingredients and quantities they have to use. He scratches off a line he wrote, then starts to mix some condiments precisely. Rosa tries it and comments that version 35 is not sour anymore and feels refreshing and sweet instead. Luke comments that the color isn't red as in game though and their sauce is brown. Luke and Rosa wonder about ingredients red enough to stay the same color after being boiled and which doesn't affect the taste. Rosa suddenly has an idea and takes out some small vegetables from her fridge, which Luke recognizes as being carrots they bought just to get a discount. Rosa corrects him saying it's beetroots and that they can be used as natural dye. Luke, excited, tells her they should use it. So a while after, with 2 more pages of the notebook written on and their table filled with reddish sauces, they finally managed to replicate a sauce of the same color and texture as in the game. Luke falls on the sofa, commenting on how hard it is. While the color looks good now, the taste is still a problem. In the game description, the sauce first has a sour and spicy taste, then becomes sweet and refreshing but theirs lack this sweetness. Rosa complains that they have tried so many times that her tongue feels numb and suggests combining all their datas now and see where they can improve. Luke tells her he will do it so she can rest first. Then, taking his notebook, he tells her that despite the experiment being a hassle it's way better than doing research on his own in the lab. Rosa realizes that Luke seems really marked by his microbe drawing competition. He says that he almost forgot it but the medal made him remember. He suddenly says it was lonely. She went closer to him to listen more. Luke explains that since it was an individual competition, he had to do everything alone and he didn't even sleep properly to be able to watch the results from his cultivation. Luke says that at the time, he was thinking how it would be nice if Rosa was next to him because he wouldn't have made that many mistakes with her there. He says that he feels his dream came true and Rosa asks him why he makes it sound like she is someone special. Luke says she is since she is his goddess of victory. She burries her face in his chest, feeling overwhelmed with feelings. Luke tells her to rest since he is almost finished to what she argues that she is not tired he is just comfortable to lean on. Luke insists on her sleeping and brushes her brow and she slowly falls asleep.
I’m seriously wondering how bad they can be at cooking when they managed to break the appliances by forgetting it on the stove, which also has broken, and the way they prepare themselves to try to do the whole recipe 5 times… But wow I admire their dedication to make such a detailed experiment to recreate that dish… Honestly, I love to see someone so serious and dedicated to their hobbies haha
Act 5
Rosa wakes up in a bright room, not remembering how she fell asleep. She looks at the sofa and sees Luke sound asleep, collar and corner of his mouth stained with red coloring and she wonders if he continued to experiment with the sauce when she fell asleep. A bit amused, she decides to wipe him. Rosa is a bit surprised to see that he didn't wake up as she started to clean him but still continues and brushes at some point against his lips, which makes his eyelids flutter. Her odd feeling is confirmed then and she guesses that he is pretending to be asleep, which makes her have an idea. Rosa loudly complains on how hard it is to wipe the collar as she rubs the wipe forcefully against him. Luke stops pretending and while pouting catches her hand and sits up. She laughs telling him he was awake after all but he corrects her and says he woke up when she leaned on him. Rosa compliments him and tell him to control his eyelids next time. Luke says she has to provide a better reward for him to do that. He hugs her and make her lie down with him. A bit embarrassed, she reminds him they have to work on something serious now. Smiling, Luke snuggle against her, telling her they need to wash up first. After doing so and eating breakfast, Luke shows Rosa the result of the experiment he got by improving their findings : the version 42. He asks her to taste it and she confirms that it's exactly how she imagined what it tasted like : a hint of unami flavor and a sour-spicy mixture. Luke informs her he noted the amount of ingredients down to every grams and how to make it. He filled already half of his notebook and put stickers on each pages to sort the infos. Rosa asks him if he turned his notebook into an encyclopedia and he confirms, saying he just wanted to be as meticulous as possible. She mentions that they should film it when doing their video. Luke eyes light up before realizing that despite all the preparations, his cooking skills can't guarantee success. Rosa suggests breaking down the task again and if she makes a mistake, he can cover for her. He agrees and she tells him they should make one last check. Luke adjusts the lights and filming equipment while Rosa takes out the ingredients from the fridge. They start the recording and get to work. Luke gives out instructions to her while reading the notebook and Rosa follows, but despite this, since she isn't used to tossing the pan, a lot of rice falls outside the pot. Luke reassures her despite being nervous too. He continues to instruct her but she realizes at some point they didn't dice some of their ingredients. Luke tells her he did and shows her different containers lined up next to her. Rosa asks him when he did that to which he answers during the preparations. She tells him how she is glad he is here because she wouldn't have time to do the prep and Luke tells her that him doing the preparation and her taking the lead is teamwork and he won't let it fail. She says how she wants to win too, finally understanding why she was so eager to join the competition. In the end, they manage to finish their paella without a hitch. Rosa asks how they are going to edit their vlog now and Luke says they first need a title. She asks if he has an idea but his first two ones are rejected. After a moment of thinking, he decides on "The Warriors' Honor Challenge" and she agrees, saying it sounds like it comes from the game. Luke takes the camera still recording and moves it from the food to Rosa, saying that the warriors who worked diligently should now harvest the fruits of their victory.
They are cute and fluffy aaaa but really once again their dedication should earn them a prize even if they don’t win 1st
Act 6
On another weekend, a few weeks later, at Luke's home. Rosa is on the sofa, scrolling on the comments from the cooking challenge event. Their entry was selected as outstanding entry and despite not ranking high overall, the official account gave them the award of most outstanding innovation. Rosa laughs so Luke puts his controller away and asks her what she saw. She shows him the comments that made her laugh but he doesn't respond so Rosa doesn't know if he is stunned with joy or shocked to be called professional chefs by the netizens. Pretending to hold a mic, she asks him if Mr "Professional Chef" has something to say. Luke answers that the filming of this vlog was a pain so it's great it didn't disappoint them. Rosa asks him how he feels about receiving an award and he says he feels like he isn't confident enough but receiving the title makes him a bit excited. Looking and sounding joyful, he says that seeing her being so happy and smiley makes him glad. Rosa says that it's normal to be happy since their hard work paid off and they fulfilled a small wish. Before he can ask about it, a delivery man rings and screams for Luke, so he rushes to the door, exclaiming that it must be the prize they won. Rosa feels glad to have involved him in the competition seeing his reaction. Once unwrapped from the cardboard the gift package stills takes up the whole table. She pushes the box towards him, asking him to open it for them but Luke tells her to do so since she wanted it. Rosa pauses and tells him she wanted to participate to help him get the limited edition merch which makes him puzzled. Luke says that the Big Data Lab told him that she spent a lot of time looking at the event page so he thought she was interested. Rosa also tells him how the Big Data Lab told her he was the one looking at this, but thinking back, she was the one initiating the conversation about it and his expression made her think he wanted to join. Luke realizes that it was a misunderstanding and Rosa comments that she doesn't know if she should thank the algorithm for being smart or, Luke finishes her sentence, be happy they are so in sync they always end up on the same page. They decide to unwrap it together... Only to reveal another box. Looking closely at it, she realizes that there is a maze on it with two small balls inside. Luke explains that it's a labyrinth lock and pulls out a card from the cardboard wrapping which asks them if they are ready to face the special challenge even in reality. Luke summarizes that the instructions explain that if the two balls fall in the designated spot at the same time, the box will open. They comment on how it's like the challenge they faced with their vlog. They laugh at each other and get ready to tackle the labyrinth, Luke placing himself behind Rosa and putting his hands on hers. Carefully, they sync up and tackle the puzzle together. As Rosa was celebrating their victory a bit early, one of the balls almost ended up in a dead end. Luke reassures her, telling her to be calm. They carry on, focused and steady, in harmony. Then the balls reach their destination at the same time, the box opens and reveals a paper lantern in the shape of their playable characters in game hand in hand, which recreate the scenery of the players returning home after finishing the final boss. Rosa comments on how detailed it is but Luke says it's not good enough, which surprises her. She looks at him and sees that he is way closer to her now. He tells her to remember the perfect ending before planting a kiss on her neck and saying "We rely on each other and help one another. That's how we can reach our destination", which are the final lines in the game. Luke tells her how that is now a more faithful recreation of the scene. Both their tender feelings in harmony, he carefully reminds her how they are always in sync.
Oh wow, what a nice wrap up, I love how they in fact took the challenge to make the other happy and because they thought the other wanted to when in fact they both didn’t even consider their own feelings into the matter, that’s kinda endearing. A huge thanks to the lowkey too sentient Big Data Lab without which we couldn’t have gotten this card !
Personal opinion :
What I liked :
Okay, idk if it's because I literally JUST finished a game and felt lonely not being able to share the whole experience of playing it with someone, but the first act being just them having finished a game together was so sweet and filled some kind of void I felt IMMEDIATELY, and the rest of the card covered the rest with ointment and patched a little heart shaped band aid on all haha. I think that’s what made me like the game so much, the themes and their cute exchanges as they were saying the game’s lines and remembering when they played it, it just felt so nice, so my liking of this card is really biased.
Also, I loved the reminder that Luke is so smart and well versed in scientific topics, it was nice seeing him casually mention and remember his experiment and some notions he knows of.
What I disliked :
Not a strong dislike, but I would have loved to see a small part of their playthrough to immerse even more in the story but oh well
Would I recommend getting this story ?
If you like a fluffy, cozy card with hints of gaming elements inside, sure ! This card was very warm and enjoyable to read, especially the casual, comfortable atmosphere between Luke and Rosa. As a “Sweet Chapter SSR”, it’s not groundbreaking in terms of lore, but it feels very nice still !!
submitted by Nxx_Analysis to TearsOfThemis [link] [comments]
Card review : Luke - Spice and Synergy
As always, the notation is subjective, especially the art one.
Art : 4.5/5
Story plot : 9/10
Story writing : 5/5
Total : 18.5/20
Review summary :
After finishing a co-op game together, Luke and Rosa decide to register in a cooking vlog competition related to the game in order to win limited edition merch. In a warm, cozy and harmonious atmosphere, they tackle this challenge which will bring unforgettable memories.
Review act per act :
Act 1
Luke is tossing ingredients in a frying pan from far away and as the oil is splattering, Rosa hurriedly gives him the lid as a protection. Luke comments that cooking felt more like a physical skill test than any combat. Rosa confirms, remembering how she mentioned trying to challenge themselves to cook. A few hours ago. As the credit of the game finished rolling, Luke and Rosa finally got the perfect ending in a game called Monster Kitchen. Rosa complains on how hard the last stage was, Luke agreeing and saying the game should have been called Torture Kitchen instead. Rosa recalls how they had to avoid traps, collect ingredients in a maze to be able to cook a dish called Surf and Turf to convince the devil in the castle. She says that the guides were correct when they said getting the perfect end was a matter of luck before collapsing into bed like Luke, who immediately hugs her. He says that it's not totally luck since it's because of their marvelous cooperation. He takes his phone and asks her what she wants to eat as a celebration. Rosa tells him she is going to check reviews and recommendations. As she is taking her phone, she is distracted by a Big Data Lab notification, sharing with her an article Sherluke_Polmes, an account Luke created to play Monster Kitchen, was just reading. She clicks on the article and sees it's a Monster Kitchen Culinary Competition, which consists of bringing the food from the game to reality by recording and uploading vlogs. The prize includes limited-edition merch, absolutely unique in the world. Rosa looks at Luke and she sees that he is reading the same page but he looks conflicted. She guesses he really wants the merch but considering both of their skills with cooking it might be difficult. But still, Rosa thinks that since they only have to recreate the dishes on a visual level, they still have a chance. Feeling confident, she asks Luke if he wants to join. He asks the question back and Rosa guesses that he is worried about her pushing herself to do something she doesn't want, since Monster Kitchen is a coop-game, so must the competition be, meaning they would have to enter together. She tells him that she wants to and seeing how confident she looks, he agreed too. But they underestimated their task severely. Back in the present moment, they keep on coughing as Luke turns the fume extractor on. Inside the pan is burnt rice and sauce, stuck to the bottom. Luke complains, saying he was following exactly what the cooking guide which came with the guide said. As he is doing so, smoke starts to rise again from the pan, so Rosa pulls him away, asking if he is fine. Luke says he is but on another side looks disappointed. Rosa wonders if the substitute they used wasn't good enough. Since the ingredients in the game have particular lore and background, they obviously can't find them in real life, so they used substitutes with similar looking stuff, but it failed. Rosa complains how hard it is and Luke mentions they have to buy new ingredients. Luke rubs his eyes and then explains to a worried Rosa that smoke must have got into it and he is going to wash them. Rosa checks his eye and it is red and teary. She takes a wet wipe and softly cleans the corner of his eye. Luke then blinks several times and explains that he might still have onion's juice on his hands so it might explain... He is suddenly interrupted by a loud noise. On the other side of the kitchen, white smoke is coming out from the pot they forgot where they were making soup. Luke instinctively takes Rosa in his arms to protect her from the erupting water. Panicked, she asks him if he was okay, fearing that some boiling water burned him.
Sher(lock)luke_P(earce)(H)olmes, what a genius username I love this so much hahaha ! I wonder how it is in other languages… Also Luke Rosa living the most awesome cozy dream of being a gamer couple, I live for it, like, isn't it literally the dream to just spend time with your partner (or one of your friends) playing co-op-games together and frequently ? Wow, I would love to have this omg
Act 2
Rosa asks Luke if he is okay, which he confirms but knowing him. Keeping her in his arms, he turns off the stove. Rosa asks him to see his back and before he can stop her, she tugs on his shirt and pulls his collar. She sees how red the back of his neck is red. Rosa asks him if he needs to go to the hospital but he refuses saying it's not worth. Luke reassures her again as she was expressing her worry, adding that he needs to change now since he is dirty. Rosa tells him she is going to fetch the first aid kit in case and he agrees. He wants to touch her cheek as an habit but since he is covered in oil and stains, he stops and simply says that he will be back. Rosa is searching for the first aid kit and when she takes it out, a medal falls at the same time. It seems pretty worn out and has the words "Gold Medal in Microbiology Fun Lab Competition" written in front and "National Central University" in the back. Luke comes out of the shower at this moment so Rosa tells him she found the medal while searching for the first aid kit. He asks her if she is curious about it and she tells him that she is but that he is the most important right now. Rosa wraps her arms around his waist and look at his back but Luke tells her there's no need to check as he already did and he is just a bit red. He takes her hands to stop her and she insists. Giving up, he turns his back to her so that she can check. Indeed, there are only small red parts on his back which isn't serious. He tells her that it doesn't need the hospital and she agrees. Luke comments on how he must work on gaining her confidence next time before commenting that it was a good trade. She doesn't understand so he gets closer to her and says that they have to get the ultimate victory before getting a champion medal in Monster Kitchen but he got a champion medal now without even winning anything. She laughs, then tell him to settle down so that she can check for sure if he is fine. He tenses up as she continues to examine him. At some point she asks him to turn, which he reluctantly does and she discovers a crimson swathe which he was hiding. Luke struggles to explain himself and Rosa grabs him before he manages to escape. Commenting on how he needs to improve his reliability, she tells him to let her treat him. She tells him to lay on his stomach on the bed while she applies ointment and he obeys without saying anything. Looking more closely, even the splotches on his back seem very red. As Rosa starts applying it, she asks if it hurts and Luke says that it doesn't and she can even press harder if needed. He burries his head into his arms while she continues asking how he feels. Luke asks to stop since he hasn't cleaned up the kitchen yet but Rosa, starting to feel hot and ticklish, insists on treating him first. Luke relents and rests on his elbow. Rosa guesses he also feels awkward in the situation so she changes the topic to the medal she found earlier by asking him how he got it. He explains that it was worth an experiment where they used microbes as ink to draw shapes on a petri dish. Rosa asks him about it by repeating what he said but she is distracted by her feelings as she is treating him. Luke explains to her how it works and she comments that it sounds hard. He denies and as he continues to explain, he lets out a grunt, which worries Rosa, who asks him if she hurts him. He denies, telling that he is just not used to being touched there and she can continue. Luke turns to her and smiles to reassure her and as she is about to resume, a phone call interrupts the moment. Luke picks up his phone and freezes as he was about to stand up as his habit. Rosa tells him she is going to continue putting ointment while he is talking to the phone. On the other side of the line is an event organizer for the Monster Kitchen vlog contest, who is calling to check the participants' information. To not disturb him, Rosa tries to be more careful and delicate but it backfires, making Luke grunt once again. He however manages to continue his phone call. Once it's over, suddenly, he jumps out of bed and their positions are quickly reversed. He complains to her that she probably did it on purpose. Rosa denies, but he says doesn't trust her. He nuzzles her nose with his, starts caressing her face, and says how he almost made weird noises on the phone so she must pay for mental damage she caused to his psyche. Rosa asks him how she's going to pay that, and he tells her to figure it out. She hugs him and nuzzles her nose like he did earlier. She asks him if it's enough and Luke says no, so she adds that she is going to help him clean the house and think of a way to solve their kitchen problem too. Luke sighs loudly before kissing her. He then says that now it's a worthy compensation. She hugs him, touched by his gesture.
They are so funny and cute and Rosa knows how little care Luke has for himself so the fact she knew he got burnt more than he let on was satisfying kinda.
Act 3
They tidy up everything, then take off the curtains, bedding, Luke's clothes and wash them. Once done, they each carry a basket of laundry downstairs. In the courtyard, a lot of other residents’ beddings are already hung outside. Luke picks an empty corner to set the clothesline then, as he waves at Rosa, he calls her "dear" and asks her to hand her the "item". She realizes he just said a line from Monster Kitchen so she answers back with a line from the game while handing him bedsheets. He recites another line as an answer and she feels a bit flustered. Rosa tells him to stop and work or they won't be able to dry this today but Luke jokingly answers that he calculated that they should still be able to dry even if they layer them. Rosa asks him if he can calculate things like that and asks if he has a laundry guide. He starts hanging the sheets she hands him and confirms what she just said, adding that the guides are his exclusive tricks so he will only tell about them with certain conditions. He says she should get full score achievement in the "Monster Kitchen Castle Combat" like they did in the game and he will think about how to do that in real life. What he mentioned is a challenge triggered each time the player doesn't complete the cleaning task as the requirements, where the protagonists need to build a maze castle with bedsheets before beginning a chase. When one side wins more than 100 times, they get the extra achievement. Rosa says they don't have a castle IRL, then covers Luke with a bedsheet, saying that the combat part is still doable. Luke, surprised, lifts the sheets and says no ambushes allowed. Rosa gets back saying that it's fair in love and war and he always ambushes her in game. He counters saying he lets her know every time in advance. He lifts the bedsheet even more, telling that it won't be easy the next round. Rosa asks who said there was a next round and why don't they wrap it with only one round since it happens like that in Monster Kitchen Castle Combat. She announces she is going to make her victory speech and Luke argues that he just let her win but he agrees to listen to her. She starts by calling him Monster warrior and asking for his laundry secret. While laughing, he agrees to tell her : his secret is the thermodynamic equation. By applying them to the sunlight intensity, the temperature and humidity, you can get results. Rosa asked how he even thought about doing that and he tells her it's because of the medal she found earlier. Luke explains that since microbes needs specific conditions to grow, he did plenty of preparation before the competition. He suddenly think about how they should approach their recreation the Surf and Turf dish using the same way. Rosa asks if he suggests using science to do it and he confirms, saying they should disassemble the task into a scientific experiment. Seemingly excited, Luke explains that he was thinking about it since she found the medal and now that they talked about thermodynamics he got a clearer idea. She reaches out to him, saying she is "ready to complete the greatest challenge of her life with him" and asks about him, with a line from the game, said right before the final battle. He answers with a line from the game too and after putting the bedsheet over their head as a veil, he gently kisses her, saying he "needs to borrow some courage from her before the challenge". She softly answers that she will need to borrow some too.
Okaaaaay so I never understood his living place like this ?? Wdym other residents ?? I thought he owned a 3 floor kind of residence/house with his antique shop, detective agency and private apartment on each of those floors so he had no close enough neighbors to share stuff with them… Or is that like a housing residence with a common courtyard in the back but everyone has his own house ? On another side they are so cuteeeeeee Luke's smile is a 10/10 there, he looks so soft and pure awnnn
Act 4
At 4PM, they pick up the dried curtains and sheets before going to buy some other ingredients. The rules indicate that they have two days after registering to submit their video so the deadline is the next day, in the evening. They don't have the time to replace the broken pressure cooker where the soup was nor the also broken electrical stove on which it was cooking, so they head to Rosa's house instead to cook. After dinner, they check the ingredients they bought and Luke estimates that with the amount they got they have at least five attempts to make the dish. Luke writes in his notebook their ingredients and the issues they have encountered previously as well as solutions to those. Rosa comments on how she really feels like it's an experiment and Luke tells her he has to be meticulous with it especially since it'll help later. He writes the lines describing the dish from the game and pauses, asking out loud what they are going to do for the sauce recipe. Rosa comments that doing the same as in game will be hard so maybe they should stick to their previous method of using substitutes. Luke says that's a good idea but it would require a number of experiments. She tells him they can take the time to do so. She takes his hand, exactly like the protagonists from Monster Kitchen do every time, and quotes a line, telling him their fight is about to begin. He answers with a line from the game too, looking at her tenderly. After a while, they have a table full of saucer with different sauces, their failed experiments. Rosa asks Luke which version they are working on and he answers the version 34, which is too sour. Luke, along with the observations they previously made, lists the ingredients and quantities they have to use. He scratches off a line he wrote, then starts to mix some condiments precisely. Rosa tries it and comments that version 35 is not sour anymore and feels refreshing and sweet instead. Luke comments that the color isn't red as in game though and their sauce is brown. Luke and Rosa wonder about ingredients red enough to stay the same color after being boiled and which doesn't affect the taste. Rosa suddenly has an idea and takes out some small vegetables from her fridge, which Luke recognizes as being carrots they bought just to get a discount. Rosa corrects him saying it's beetroots and that they can be used as natural dye. Luke, excited, tells her they should use it. So a while after, with 2 more pages of the notebook written on and their table filled with reddish sauces, they finally managed to replicate a sauce of the same color and texture as in the game. Luke falls on the sofa, commenting on how hard it is. While the color looks good now, the taste is still a problem. In the game description, the sauce first has a sour and spicy taste, then becomes sweet and refreshing but theirs lack this sweetness. Rosa complains that they have tried so many times that her tongue feels numb and suggests combining all their datas now and see where they can improve. Luke tells her he will do it so she can rest first. Then, taking his notebook, he tells her that despite the experiment being a hassle it's way better than doing research on his own in the lab. Rosa realizes that Luke seems really marked by his microbe drawing competition. He says that he almost forgot it but the medal made him remember. He suddenly says it was lonely. She went closer to him to listen more. Luke explains that since it was an individual competition, he had to do everything alone and he didn't even sleep properly to be able to watch the results from his cultivation. Luke says that at the time, he was thinking how it would be nice if Rosa was next to him because he wouldn't have made that many mistakes with her there. He says that he feels his dream came true and Rosa asks him why he makes it sound like she is someone special. Luke says she is since she is his goddess of victory. She burries her face in his chest, feeling overwhelmed with feelings. Luke tells her to rest since he is almost finished to what she argues that she is not tired he is just comfortable to lean on. Luke insists on her sleeping and brushes her brow and she slowly falls asleep.
I’m seriously wondering how bad they can be at cooking when they managed to break the appliances by forgetting it on the stove, which also has broken, and the way they prepare themselves to try to do the whole recipe 5 times… But wow I admire their dedication to make such a detailed experiment to recreate that dish… Honestly, I love to see someone so serious and dedicated to their hobbies haha
Act 5
Rosa wakes up in a bright room, not remembering how she fell asleep. She looks at the sofa and sees Luke sound asleep, collar and corner of his mouth stained with red coloring and she wonders if he continued to experiment with the sauce when she fell asleep. A bit amused, she decides to wipe him. Rosa is a bit surprised to see that he didn't wake up as she started to clean him but still continues and brushes at some point against his lips, which makes his eyelids flutter. Her odd feeling is confirmed then and she guesses that he is pretending to be asleep, which makes her have an idea. Rosa loudly complains on how hard it is to wipe the collar as she rubs the wipe forcefully against him. Luke stops pretending and while pouting catches her hand and sits up. She laughs telling him he was awake after all but he corrects her and says he woke up when she leaned on him. Rosa compliments him and tell him to control his eyelids next time. Luke says she has to provide a better reward for him to do that. He hugs her and make her lie down with him. A bit embarrassed, she reminds him they have to work on something serious now. Smiling, Luke snuggle against her, telling her they need to wash up first. After doing so and eating breakfast, Luke shows Rosa the result of the experiment he got by improving their findings : the version 42. He asks her to taste it and she confirms that it's exactly how she imagined what it tasted like : a hint of unami flavor and a sour-spicy mixture. Luke informs her he noted the amount of ingredients down to every grams and how to make it. He filled already half of his notebook and put stickers on each pages to sort the infos. Rosa asks him if he turned his notebook into an encyclopedia and he confirms, saying he just wanted to be as meticulous as possible. She mentions that they should film it when doing their video. Luke eyes light up before realizing that despite all the preparations, his cooking skills can't guarantee success. Rosa suggests breaking down the task again and if she makes a mistake, he can cover for her. He agrees and she tells him they should make one last check. Luke adjusts the lights and filming equipment while Rosa takes out the ingredients from the fridge. They start the recording and get to work. Luke gives out instructions to her while reading the notebook and Rosa follows, but despite this, since she isn't used to tossing the pan, a lot of rice falls outside the pot. Luke reassures her despite being nervous too. He continues to instruct her but she realizes at some point they didn't dice some of their ingredients. Luke tells her he did and shows her different containers lined up next to her. Rosa asks him when he did that to which he answers during the preparations. She tells him how she is glad he is here because she wouldn't have time to do the prep and Luke tells her that him doing the preparation and her taking the lead is teamwork and he won't let it fail. She says how she wants to win too, finally understanding why she was so eager to join the competition. In the end, they manage to finish their paella without a hitch. Rosa asks how they are going to edit their vlog now and Luke says they first need a title. She asks if he has an idea but his first two ones are rejected. After a moment of thinking, he decides on "The Warriors' Honor Challenge" and she agrees, saying it sounds like it comes from the game. Luke takes the camera still recording and moves it from the food to Rosa, saying that the warriors who worked diligently should now harvest the fruits of their victory.
They are cute and fluffy aaaa but really once again their dedication should earn them a prize even if they don’t win 1st
Act 6
On another weekend, a few weeks later, at Luke's home. Rosa is on the sofa, scrolling on the comments from the cooking challenge event. Their entry was selected as outstanding entry and despite not ranking high overall, the official account gave them the award of most outstanding innovation. Rosa laughs so Luke puts his controller away and asks her what she saw. She shows him the comments that made her laugh but he doesn't respond so Rosa doesn't know if he is stunned with joy or shocked to be called professional chefs by the netizens. Pretending to hold a mic, she asks him if Mr "Professional Chef" has something to say. Luke answers that the filming of this vlog was a pain so it's great it didn't disappoint them. Rosa asks him how he feels about receiving an award and he says he feels like he isn't confident enough but receiving the title makes him a bit excited. Looking and sounding joyful, he says that seeing her being so happy and smiley makes him glad. Rosa says that it's normal to be happy since their hard work paid off and they fulfilled a small wish. Before he can ask about it, a delivery man rings and screams for Luke, so he rushes to the door, exclaiming that it must be the prize they won. Rosa feels glad to have involved him in the competition seeing his reaction. Once unwrapped from the cardboard the gift package stills takes up the whole table. She pushes the box towards him, asking him to open it for them but Luke tells her to do so since she wanted it. Rosa pauses and tells him she wanted to participate to help him get the limited edition merch which makes him puzzled. Luke says that the Big Data Lab told him that she spent a lot of time looking at the event page so he thought she was interested. Rosa also tells him how the Big Data Lab told her he was the one looking at this, but thinking back, she was the one initiating the conversation about it and his expression made her think he wanted to join. Luke realizes that it was a misunderstanding and Rosa comments that she doesn't know if she should thank the algorithm for being smart or, Luke finishes her sentence, be happy they are so in sync they always end up on the same page. They decide to unwrap it together... Only to reveal another box. Looking closely at it, she realizes that there is a maze on it with two small balls inside. Luke explains that it's a labyrinth lock and pulls out a card from the cardboard wrapping which asks them if they are ready to face the special challenge even in reality. Luke summarizes that the instructions explain that if the two balls fall in the designated spot at the same time, the box will open. They comment on how it's like the challenge they faced with their vlog. They laugh at each other and get ready to tackle the labyrinth, Luke placing himself behind Rosa and putting his hands on hers. Carefully, they sync up and tackle the puzzle together. As Rosa was celebrating their victory a bit early, one of the balls almost ended up in a dead end. Luke reassures her, telling her to be calm. They carry on, focused and steady, in harmony. Then the balls reach their destination at the same time, the box opens and reveals a paper lantern in the shape of their playable characters in game hand in hand, which recreate the scenery of the players returning home after finishing the final boss. Rosa comments on how detailed it is but Luke says it's not good enough, which surprises her. She looks at him and sees that he is way closer to her now. He tells her to remember the perfect ending before planting a kiss on her neck and saying "We rely on each other and help one another. That's how we can reach our destination", which are the final lines in the game. Luke tells her how that is now a more faithful recreation of the scene. Both their tender feelings in harmony, he carefully reminds her how they are always in sync.
Oh wow, what a nice wrap up, I love how they in fact took the challenge to make the other happy and because they thought the other wanted to when in fact they both didn’t even consider their own feelings into the matter, that’s kinda endearing. A huge thanks to the lowkey too sentient Big Data Lab without which we couldn’t have gotten this card !
Personal opinion :
What I liked :
Okay, idk if it's because I literally JUST finished a game and felt lonely not being able to share the whole experience of playing it with someone, but the first act being just them having finished a game together was so sweet and filled some kind of void I felt IMMEDIATELY, and the rest of the card covered the rest with ointment and patched a little heart shaped band aid on all haha. I think that’s what made me like the game so much, the themes and their cute exchanges as they were saying the game’s lines and remembering when they played it, it just felt so nice, so my liking of this card is really biased.
Also, I loved the reminder that Luke is so smart and well versed in scientific topics, it was nice seeing him casually mention and remember his experiment and some notions he knows of.
What I disliked :
Not a strong dislike, but I would have loved to see a small part of their playthrough to immerse even more in the story but oh well
Would I recommend getting this story ?
If you like a fluffy, cozy card with hints of gaming elements inside, sure ! This card was very warm and enjoyable to read, especially the casual, comfortable atmosphere between Luke and Rosa. As a “Sweet Chapter SSR”, it’s not groundbreaking in terms of lore, but it feels very nice still !!
2024.05.07 18:31 Maleficus32 I am nearing the release of my first RimWorld mod, and I am looking for feedback. (There will be some minor Anomaly spoilers within this post!)
UPDATE: The mod is out now. Here is a link to the mod page :)
Hello, fellow war criminals! As the title implies, I am developing my first RimWorld mod, and I think I am about done with it. I'm looking for feedback on its concepts and mechanics, so I can be sure it's ready to go. I don't have an ETA for release; that depends on what kind of feedback I get, and if I get any new ideas or find bugs that need fixing in my playtesting. Anyway, that is enough rambling, here are some details about the mod:
When Anomaly released, I was quite excited when I found the function Twisted Obelisk. Having fleshmass mutations as an alternative to bionics interested me. However, I was a bit disappointed by the lack of variety in the types of mutations the Twisted Obelisk could give. There are 4 in base-game Anomaly: flesh tentacle, flesh whip, fleshmass stomach, and fleshmass lung. So, I took it upon myself to add new mutations into the game via a new, researchable serum.
When you find the Twisted Obelisk, a new Anomaly research project will unlock: the Mutator Serum.
https://preview.redd.it/xzu0e0x7v0zc1.png?width=426&format=png&auto=webp&s=4d5b9cc47262bab7ea579d3605fc9ac91ca0b7c8
As you can see in the screenshot, it requires serum synthesis as a prerequisite. There are also different tiers of serums. The serums can be crafted at the Serum Lab.
https://preview.redd.it/6ca3e54uv0zc1.png?width=872&format=png&auto=webp&s=04f86d7ce25d7e749c4d8bea90727936aa01f997
Each serum, regardless of tier, costs 30 twisted meat and 20 bioferrite to create. This recipe is cheap because using these serums is not as straightforward as right clicking and injecting them. They are surgically installed, and I have some flavor text in each description to explain why this is the case. (I explain how this works mechanically at the end of the post.)
https://preview.redd.it/s526pvi7w0zc1.png?width=444&format=png&auto=webp&s=4b5ef9612046d7a0f1fa42aa241c09eb97f845fd
The basic serum is free to use, as it can only produce what the Twisted Obelisk is already capable of. The advantage to mutating the limbs in this manner are twofold: you can choose what limb/organ you want, and you don't have to wait for a cooldown from the Twisted Obelisk between uses. As the description implies, there will be an added cost to the other two tiers.
The advanced tier requires the use of a Shard during the operation. As a result, the mutations gained from this tier are more powerful overall because each one costs a Shard to create. If that price seems steep, reserve judgement until I explain what each mutation does.
Here is a list of the advanced tier mutations as well as their descriptions from the mod and their mechanical effects:
Ocular Flesh:
That is all for the advanced tier. Let me know what you think of the balance, effects, and cost of a Shard for each, please!
The hybrid tier is the highest tier. This tier requires the use of a new item during surgery: a hybrid mutation surgery kit, which is crafted at the Bioferrite Shaper.
https://preview.redd.it/wwldie7j11zc1.png?width=872&format=png&auto=webp&s=1a3ffcdf8e1e9783f3a331c125295b3bba7e8d27
This item requires 20 bioferrite, 20 steel, 4 advanced components, and a Shard to create. Both the serum and this kit also require bionics to have been researched in order to craft. The reason being that these mutations are "hybrid" because they are a combination of fleshmass mutation and bionics. The kit is used during the hybrid operations instead of a plain Shard because it contains the Shard as well as the components to install the necessary machinery. Here's the description of the hybrid serum to give an idea of how it works:
https://preview.redd.it/b7v3e1i621zc1.png?width=440&format=png&auto=webp&s=972b39c8b8a040b640b824def92ce59b5f0e552d
Anyway, here's a list of the operations that you can do with this tier:
Effects: toxic environment resistance +30%, part efficiency 70%, grants the power to release a cloud of Deadlife Dust once per day, which will create friendly shamblers from nearby corpses. (Same ability some creepjoiners can get occasionally)
Here's where things change a bit. Still in the hybrid tier, though:
The following bodyparts are upgrades of archotech implants. They require the corresponding archotech implant during the surgery (as well as the serum and surgery kit)! So to make the arm, you need to have an Archotech Arm, which will be used up in the surgery, for example.
The Horaxian limbs have a built-in limiter, so you cannot easily just deck out a pawn with all Horaxian bodyparts. Each raises the mental break threshold. If you intend to install each Horaxian bodypart on a colonist, be ready for them to be constantly having mental breaks! Think carefully before installing a Horaxian bodypart.
That's the list of all the new bodyparts the mod adds. If you're wondering how each part is installed once you have a serum, a new bill for each bodypart will appear for each part you have the ingredients for.
https://preview.redd.it/o4eg5brt41zc1.png?width=447&format=png&auto=webp&s=7d79ff6f571a777cb4e178cfd95d5135b9f4de2a
This way, your crafting menus are not too bloated, as you only need a few certain items to be able to utilize the new bodyparts.
Anyway, that is every detail about my first RimWorld mod. I look forward to hearing your feedback!
submitted by Maleficus32 to RimWorld [link] [comments]
Hello, fellow war criminals! As the title implies, I am developing my first RimWorld mod, and I think I am about done with it. I'm looking for feedback on its concepts and mechanics, so I can be sure it's ready to go. I don't have an ETA for release; that depends on what kind of feedback I get, and if I get any new ideas or find bugs that need fixing in my playtesting. Anyway, that is enough rambling, here are some details about the mod:
When Anomaly released, I was quite excited when I found the function Twisted Obelisk. Having fleshmass mutations as an alternative to bionics interested me. However, I was a bit disappointed by the lack of variety in the types of mutations the Twisted Obelisk could give. There are 4 in base-game Anomaly: flesh tentacle, flesh whip, fleshmass stomach, and fleshmass lung. So, I took it upon myself to add new mutations into the game via a new, researchable serum.
When you find the Twisted Obelisk, a new Anomaly research project will unlock: the Mutator Serum.
https://preview.redd.it/xzu0e0x7v0zc1.png?width=426&format=png&auto=webp&s=4d5b9cc47262bab7ea579d3605fc9ac91ca0b7c8
As you can see in the screenshot, it requires serum synthesis as a prerequisite. There are also different tiers of serums. The serums can be crafted at the Serum Lab.
https://preview.redd.it/6ca3e54uv0zc1.png?width=872&format=png&auto=webp&s=04f86d7ce25d7e749c4d8bea90727936aa01f997
Each serum, regardless of tier, costs 30 twisted meat and 20 bioferrite to create. This recipe is cheap because using these serums is not as straightforward as right clicking and injecting them. They are surgically installed, and I have some flavor text in each description to explain why this is the case. (I explain how this works mechanically at the end of the post.)
https://preview.redd.it/s526pvi7w0zc1.png?width=444&format=png&auto=webp&s=4b5ef9612046d7a0f1fa42aa241c09eb97f845fd
The basic serum is free to use, as it can only produce what the Twisted Obelisk is already capable of. The advantage to mutating the limbs in this manner are twofold: you can choose what limb/organ you want, and you don't have to wait for a cooldown from the Twisted Obelisk between uses. As the description implies, there will be an added cost to the other two tiers.
The advanced tier requires the use of a Shard during the operation. As a result, the mutations gained from this tier are more powerful overall because each one costs a Shard to create. If that price seems steep, reserve judgement until I explain what each mutation does.
Here is a list of the advanced tier mutations as well as their descriptions from the mod and their mechanical effects:
- Psychic Eye:
A cancerous mass of semi-sentient flesh which vaguely resembles an eye. The tissue constantly regrows and replaces itself. The eye is much less effective than a normal humanlike eye; however, it allows the recipient to better perceive how psychic forces affect the world around them, thus increasing their psychic sensitivity.
The organ has its own neural structures and may become dangerous if removed.
- Fleshmass Leg:
A leg composed of twisted muscle and flesh, resembling a partial transformation into a fleshbeast. This leg allows for quicker movement speed.
The fleshmass leg has its own neural structures and may become dangerous if removed.
- Spinelauncher Tentacle:
A fleshy, muscled tentacle with a keratin spine at the end. The spine can be fired as a projectile and will regrow shortly after.
The spinelauncher has its own neural structures and may become dangerous if removed.
- Fleshmass Heart (not to be confused with the Fleshmass Heart entity. I just don't know what else to call this mutated organ!):
A cancerous mass of semi-sentient flesh that functions as a heart. Its erratic beating is somewhat painful, but it is shockingly more efficient.
The organ has its own neural structures and may become dangerous if removed.
- Acid Spewer:
A cancerous mass of semi-sentient flesh. The harsh acid it produces is very painful, but strong enough to cause serious damage on contact. The acid can be launched as a projectile.
The organ has its own neural structures and may become dangerous if removed.
Ocular Flesh:
Multiple eyes of varying quality have sprouted from the forearm. The extra eyes increase visual range whilst also causing a sense of vertigo due to the unnatural perspective. The affected flesh has developed its own neural structures and may become dangerous if removed.Effects: sight +50%, -8 mood debuff from "ocular flesh vertigo" (disabled by Inhumanized hediff)
- Fleshmass Maw:
Multiple rows of jagged teeth have sprouted from twisted flesh. A retractable stinger resides within the deformed tongue, ready to inject venom into an unsuspecting target's veins. The transformed mouth can be used as a weapon in combat, but the recipient has a much harder time talking due to the sharp and bulbous deformities that now compose the inside of their mouth.
The fleshmass maw has developed its own neural structures and may become dangerous if extracted.
- Fleshmass Epidermis:
This person's flesh has been entirely mutated into a grotesque, twisted mass of meat. Their appearance is warped nearly beyond recognition, but their newly thickened hide provides them with extra protection, especially against blunt force trauma. This process is irreversible.
- Fleshmass Ear (final of the advanced tier!):
A cancerous mass of semi-sentient flesh that functions as an ear. This ear has improved audio clarity, but those who have undergone this particular mutation report hearing a whisper-quiet, yet unrelenting chorus of ominous chanting. The chanting is perceivable in moments of quiet, but it is forever present underneath the drone of daily life. It is difficult to make out what these voices are saying, but the closer one comes to doing so, the more maddening these chants become.
The organ has its own neural structures and may become dangerous if removed.
That is all for the advanced tier. Let me know what you think of the balance, effects, and cost of a Shard for each, please!
The hybrid tier is the highest tier. This tier requires the use of a new item during surgery: a hybrid mutation surgery kit, which is crafted at the Bioferrite Shaper.
https://preview.redd.it/wwldie7j11zc1.png?width=872&format=png&auto=webp&s=1a3ffcdf8e1e9783f3a331c125295b3bba7e8d27
This item requires 20 bioferrite, 20 steel, 4 advanced components, and a Shard to create. Both the serum and this kit also require bionics to have been researched in order to craft. The reason being that these mutations are "hybrid" because they are a combination of fleshmass mutation and bionics. The kit is used during the hybrid operations instead of a plain Shard because it contains the Shard as well as the components to install the necessary machinery. Here's the description of the hybrid serum to give an idea of how it works:
https://preview.redd.it/b7v3e1i621zc1.png?width=440&format=png&auto=webp&s=972b39c8b8a040b640b824def92ce59b5f0e552d
Anyway, here's a list of the operations that you can do with this tier:
- Hybrid Arm:
A construction of squirming flesh and twisted metal. This arm is a grotesque union of bionics and fleshmass mutation. Within its half-metal fingers reside retractable keratin claws, which have been reinforced by dark archites. This arm provides both efficiency and utility in melee combat.
The hybrid arm has its own neural structures and may become dangerous if removed.
- Hybrid Eye
A construction of mutated flesh and unfeeling steel, this eye is a grotesque union of bionics and fleshmass mutation. The sclera of this eye is composed of twisted, red meat, whereas the iris resembles the aperture of a camera. This eye provides improved visual clarity, despite its rough appearance.
The hybrid eye has its own neural structures and may become dangerous if removed.
- Deadlife Incubator (one of my personal favorites):
A construction of mutated flesh and unfeeling steel, this lung is a grotesque union of bionics and fleshmass mutation. Within this organ is a small incubation chamber for microscopic, self-powered archites. These archites can be exhaled once per day to raise nearby corpses into shamblers that will only attack enemies. The incubation chamber takes up space within the lung, so this organ comes with a slight decrease of breathing efficiency.
The deadlife incubator has its own neural structures and may become dangerous if removed.
Effects: toxic environment resistance +30%, part efficiency 70%, grants the power to release a cloud of Deadlife Dust once per day, which will create friendly shamblers from nearby corpses. (Same ability some creepjoiners can get occasionally)
- Hybrid Spine:
A construction of squirming flesh and twisted metal. This spine is a grotesque union of bionics and fleshmass mutation. The spine's partially-metal, partially-bone construction is segmented into functional vertebrae, through which organic nerves run.
The hybrid spine has its own neural structures and may become dangerous if removed.
Here's where things change a bit. Still in the hybrid tier, though:
The following bodyparts are upgrades of archotech implants. They require the corresponding archotech implant during the surgery (as well as the serum and surgery kit)! So to make the arm, you need to have an Archotech Arm, which will be used up in the surgery, for example.
- Horaxian Arm:
An archotech arm whose construction has been exposed to the malignant power of the void for one purpose: achieving the impossible by improving upon perfection. Where the arm once had flesh that looked and felt natural, it now has squirming, glistening, crimson meat. The internal structure, however, has been changed in ways that go even further beyond human comprehension. This arm thrums in rhythm with the malice of the void, bringing its recipient one step closer to madness.
It is impossible to understand the workings of this arm. If it is removed, it will be destroyed in the process.
- Horaxian Leg:
An archotech leg whose construction has been exposed to the malignant power of the void for one purpose: achieving the impossible by improving upon perfection. Where the leg once had flesh that looked and felt natural, it now has squirming, glistening, crimson meat. The internal structure, however, has been changed in ways that go even further beyond human comprehension. This leg thrums in rhythm with the malice of the void, bringing its recipient one step closer to madness.
It is impossible to understand the workings of this leg. If it is removed, it will be destroyed in the process.
- Horaxian Eye:
An archotech eye whose construction has been exposed to the malignant power of the void for one purpose: achieving the impossible by improving upon perfection. Where the eye once looked and felt natural, it now has squirming, glistening, crimson meat. The internal structure, however, has been changed in ways that go even further beyond human comprehension. This eye thrums in rhythm with the malice of the void, bringing its recipient one step closer to madness.
It is impossible to understand the workings of this eye. If it is removed, it will be destroyed in the process.
The Horaxian limbs have a built-in limiter, so you cannot easily just deck out a pawn with all Horaxian bodyparts. Each raises the mental break threshold. If you intend to install each Horaxian bodypart on a colonist, be ready for them to be constantly having mental breaks! Think carefully before installing a Horaxian bodypart.
That's the list of all the new bodyparts the mod adds. If you're wondering how each part is installed once you have a serum, a new bill for each bodypart will appear for each part you have the ingredients for.
https://preview.redd.it/o4eg5brt41zc1.png?width=447&format=png&auto=webp&s=7d79ff6f571a777cb4e178cfd95d5135b9f4de2a
This way, your crafting menus are not too bloated, as you only need a few certain items to be able to utilize the new bodyparts.
Anyway, that is every detail about my first RimWorld mod. I look forward to hearing your feedback!
2024.05.07 15:44 lazymentors What happened in Marketing & Advertising last week? (AI-AdTech)
Top 6 Updates of the Week
- TikTok & UMG reached a music licensing agreement, the songs from artists are coming back.
- Instagram changed their algorithm, new changes will promote smaller accounts and original content.
- Google announced 6 new AI features for Performance Max.
- Snapchat announced new AR & ML Ad products at IAB NewFronts.
- Meta launches new AI ad features, Recommendations for Creator Marketplace & Reels Update.
- LinkedIn officially launched In-app professional games. What?
Trending News
- Pinterest shared Q1 earnings report, highlighting a jump from 498M monthly active users in Q4 to 518M users in Q1 2024.
- OpenAI partners with Financial Times to include summaries and links from the publisher.
- Liquid IV launches their first brand refresh since its official launch in 2012.
- Spotify testing artist short-form video clips on Playlist pages.
- Google’s search market share fell to 77.52% in April from 86.94%. Meanwhile both Bing & Yahoo grew their market share.
- Amazon's advertising revenue increased 24% in Q1.
- Spotify revealed new Digital Video Ad offerings at its first NewFronts event.
- Twitch rolls out TikTok-like short form content discovery feed. The feature was in testing for past few months.
- The Onion, the troll news website sold by G/O Media.
- Criteo reveals its retail media revenue in earnings call, signs of growth.
- McDonald’s and other big brands warn that low income consumers are cracking.
- MRC OOH Standards Phase 1 Document is here.
TikTok
- TikTok announces new update to their premium ad format “pulse ad suite”.
- TikTok announced Ticket sales partnership with CTS EVENTIM.
- CapCut has launched InspireVid, An AI video generator. (limited access)
- TikTok shares new insights and data into state of TikTok Shops.
- TikTok testing a new navigation bar with explore page, with photos content.
- US House Lawmakers presses FTC to investigate TikTok’s Use of Kids for Lobbying.
Instagram & Threads
- IG launches 4 new Stickers in Stories.
- Instagram testing a feature allowing creators to go live with only broadcast members.
- Instagram is testing a new feature allowing businesses to add customer details.
- Threads feature to limit who can quote your post is now available to everyone.
- IG is rolling out likes feature for notes.
- Instagram testing a clear mode feature for Reels.
Meta
- Meta found subject to EU disinformation probe over handling of russian disinformation.
- WhatsApp launched new features, the main ones are launch of Community Events & Replies in Broadcasts.
- Meta implements new AI disclosure requirement with FB AI content label.
- Meta plans to cut off Oversight Board staff due to funding cuts.
- WhatsApp threatens to leave India if Gov pushes them to compromise encryption.
X (Twitter)
- X launches AI-powered news summaries for premium subscribers.
- X updates Analytics dashboard with more details.
- X (Twitter) changed how block works. If you block someone in a convo, you will be able to see their reply and report.
- X has launched Grok AI in the UK and Japan.
- Users can now spotlight their favourite X community on profile.
- X is testing a similar user engagement button structure like Pinterest.
- Users can now repost content from X communities.
- Subscriber badges showing up in live chats.
YouTube
- Youtube is testing a GenAI content inspiration tool on Studio desktop.
- Youtube is experimenting with Topics filter in comments section.
- Amazon and Youtube will be fighting for NBA Streaming rights when the current contract expires.
- Google Ads to pause low-activity keywords from June.
- Google expands Performance Max to online marketplaces.
- Google unveils new ways to reach streaming audiences.
- Google News deletes manual submission option.
- Google SGE answers now cost 80% less to generate.
Snapchat
- Snapchat launched new DM features, fixing typos, AI reminders & more.
- Snapchat partners with CreatorIQ to help with creator discovery & insights.
AI News
- Yelp launched new AI Assistant.
- A LLM called 'gpt2-chatbot' showed up recently and disappeared, people are speculating it was GPT-5.
- Tesco launches AI-powered Clubcard challenges for Shoppers.
- The next Safari 18 update rumoured to include AI browsing features.
- Github launches Copilot workspace for developers.
- Amazon Q, The AI Assistant for businesses and developer is here.
- Anthropic announced Claude AI app for iPhone and iPad.
Microsoft & LinkedIn
- Microsoft expands access to Copilot for all advertisers & more news.
- Estée Lauder and Microsoft’s new partnership to launch AI Innovation lab.
- Microsoft release its first responsible AI report.
- Microsoft partners with Alliance of Independent Agencies.
- LinkedIn launches new feature for publishers to stitch pre-roll ads from partners.
Marketing & AdTech
- Infillion has relaunched MediaMath.
- Roku and The Trade Desk announce new data-focused streaming partnership.
- Warner Bros. Discovery launches Olli A first-party data solution for advertisers.
- VSCO launched AI Hub connecting creators and photographers.
- Roblox launches In-platform video ads.
- Stagwell releases Q1 earnings report sharing an increase of 8% revenue versus the Q1 2023.
- MobileFuse expands partnership with LiveRamp.
- IAS and DoubleVerify called out for marking TIME's Person of the Year article as 'brand unsafe'.
- Fubo drops Warner Bros. Discovery Networks, Including HGTV, Food Networks, Discovery.
- Stagwell acquires Montreal Based Luxine Relations Publiques.
- Yahoo’s DSP partnership enables marketers to target Kroger’s retail audience.
- Asda and SMG’s retail media partnership moves to next level with launch of LS Eleven Media Services.
- Beehiiv, A newsletter marketing platform raises $33M in Series B funding.
- Qualtrics launches new Strategy & Research Suite for XM.
I hope this helps to plan your week ahead. You can read all updates with sources and other marketing report launches in the archive post.
2024.05.07 15:42 lazymentors What happened in Marketing & Advertising last week?
Top 6 Updates of the Week
- TikTok & UMG reached a music licensing agreement, the songs from artists are coming back.
- Instagram changed their algorithm, new changes will promote smaller accounts and original content.
- Google announced 6 new AI features for Performance Max.
- Snapchat announced new AR & ML Ad products at IAB NewFronts.
- Meta launches new AI ad features, Recommendations for Creator Marketplace & Reels Update.
- LinkedIn officially launched In-app professional games. What?
Trending News
- Pinterest shared Q1 earnings report, highlighting a jump from 498M monthly active users in Q4 to 518M users in Q1 2024.
- OpenAI partners with Financial Times to include summaries and links from the publisher.
- Liquid IV launches their first brand refresh since its official launch in 2012.
- Spotify testing artist short-form video clips on Playlist pages.
- Google’s search market share fell to 77.52% in April from 86.94%. Meanwhile both Bing & Yahoo grew their market share.
- Amazon's advertising revenue increased 24% in Q1.
- Spotify revealed new Digital Video Ad offerings at its first NewFronts event.
- Twitch rolls out TikTok-like short form content discovery feed. The feature was in testing for past few months.
- The Onion, the troll news website sold by G/O Media.
- Criteo reveals its retail media revenue in earnings call, signs of growth.
- McDonald’s and other big brands warn that low income consumers are cracking.
- MRC OOH Standards Phase 1 Document is here.
TikTok
- TikTok announces new update to their premium ad format “pulse ad suite”.
- TikTok announced Ticket sales partnership with CTS EVENTIM.
- CapCut has launched InspireVid, An AI video generator. (limited access)
- TikTok shares new insights and data into state of TikTok Shops.
- TikTok testing a new navigation bar with explore page, with photos content.
- US House Lawmakers presses FTC to investigate TikTok’s Use of Kids for Lobbying.
Instagram & Threads
- IG launches 4 new Stickers in Stories.
- Instagram testing a feature allowing creators to go live with only broadcast members.
- Instagram is testing a new feature allowing businesses to add customer details.
- Threads feature to limit who can quote your post is now available to everyone.
- IG is rolling out likes feature for notes.
- Instagram testing a clear mode feature for Reels.
Meta
- Meta found subject to EU disinformation probe over handling of russian disinformation.
- WhatsApp launched new features, the main ones are launch of Community Events & Replies in Broadcasts.
- Meta implements new AI disclosure requirement with FB AI content label.
- Meta plans to cut off Oversight Board staff due to funding cuts.
- WhatsApp threatens to leave India if Gov pushes them to compromise encryption.
X (Twitter)
- X launches AI-powered news summaries for premium subscribers.
- X updates Analytics dashboard with more details.
- X (Twitter) changed how block works. If you block someone in a convo, you will be able to see their reply and report.
- X has launched Grok AI in the UK and Japan.
- Users can now spotlight their favourite X community on profile.
- X is testing a similar user engagement button structure like Pinterest.
- Users can now repost content from X communities.
- Subscriber badges showing up in live chats.
YouTube
- Youtube is testing a GenAI content inspiration tool on Studio desktop.
- Youtube is experimenting with Topics filter in comments section.
- Amazon and Youtube will be fighting for NBA Streaming rights when the current contract expires.
- Google Ads to pause low-activity keywords from June.
- Google expands Performance Max to online marketplaces.
- Google unveils new ways to reach streaming audiences.
- Google News deletes manual submission option.
- Google SGE answers now cost 80% less to generate.
Snapchat
- Snapchat launched new DM features, fixing typos, AI reminders & more.
- Snapchat partners with CreatorIQ to help with creator discovery & insights.
AI News
- Yelp launched new AI Assistant.
- A LLM called 'gpt2-chatbot' showed up recently and disappeared, people are speculating it was GPT-5.
- Tesco launches AI-powered Clubcard challenges for Shoppers.
- The next Safari 18 update rumoured to include AI browsing features.
- Github launches Copilot workspace for developers.
- Amazon Q, The AI Assistant for businesses and developer is here.
- Anthropic announced Claude AI app for iPhone and iPad.
Microsoft & LinkedIn
- Microsoft expands access to Copilot for all advertisers & more news.
- Estée Lauder and Microsoft’s new partnership to launch AI Innovation lab.
- Microsoft release its first responsible AI report.
- Microsoft partners with Alliance of Independent Agencies.
- LinkedIn launches new feature for publishers to stitch pre-roll ads from partners.
Marketing & AdTech
- Infillion has relaunched MediaMath.
- Roku and The Trade Desk announce new data-focused streaming partnership.
- Warner Bros. Discovery launches Olli A first-party data solution for advertisers.
- VSCO launched AI Hub connecting creators and photographers.
- Roblox launches In-platform video ads.
- Stagwell releases Q1 earnings report sharing an increase of 8% revenue versus the Q1 2023.
- MobileFuse expands partnership with LiveRamp.
- IAS and DoubleVerify called out for marking TIME's Person of the Year article as 'brand unsafe'.
- Fubo drops Warner Bros. Discovery Networks, Including HGTV, Food Networks, Discovery.
- Stagwell acquires Montreal Based Luxine Relations Publiques.
- Yahoo’s DSP partnership enables marketers to target Kroger’s retail audience.
- Asda and SMG’s retail media partnership moves to next level with launch of LS Eleven Media Services.
- Beehiiv, A newsletter marketing platform raises $33M in Series B funding.
- Qualtrics launches new Strategy & Research Suite for XM.
I hope this helps to plan your week ahead. You can read all updates with sources and other marketing report launches in the archive post.
2024.05.07 15:40 lazymentors Social Media & Digital Marketing Updates from last week to care about!
Top 6 Updates of the Week
- TikTok & UMG reached a music licensing agreement, the songs from artists are coming back.
- Instagram changed their algorithm, new changes will promote smaller accounts and original content.
- Google announced 6 new AI features for Performance Max.
- Snapchat announced new AR & ML Ad products at IAB NewFronts.
- Meta launches new AI ad features, Recommendations for Creator Marketplace & Reels Update.
- LinkedIn officially launched In-app professional games. What?
Trending News
- Pinterest shared Q1 earnings report, highlighting a jump from 498M monthly active users in Q4 to 518M users in Q1 2024.
- OpenAI partners with Financial Times to include summaries and links from the publisher.
- Liquid IV launches their first brand refresh since its official launch in 2012.
- Spotify testing artist short-form video clips on Playlist pages.
- Google’s search market share fell to 77.52% in April from 86.94%. Meanwhile both Bing & Yahoo grew their market share.
- Amazon's advertising revenue increased 24% in Q1.
- Spotify revealed new Digital Video Ad offerings at its first NewFronts event.
- Twitch rolls out TikTok-like short form content discovery feed. The feature was in testing for past few months.
- The Onion, the troll news website sold by G/O Media.
- Criteo reveals its retail media revenue in earnings call, signs of growth.
- McDonald’s and other big brands warn that low income consumers are cracking.
- MRC OOH Standards Phase 1 Document is here.
TikTok
- TikTok announces new update to their premium ad format “pulse ad suite”.
- TikTok announced Ticket sales partnership with CTS EVENTIM.
- CapCut has launched InspireVid, An AI video generator. (limited access)
- TikTok shares new insights and data into state of TikTok Shops.
- TikTok testing a new navigation bar with explore page, with photos content.
- US House Lawmakers presses FTC to investigate TikTok’s Use of Kids for Lobbying.
Instagram & Threads
- IG launches 4 new Stickers in Stories.
- Instagram testing a feature allowing creators to go live with only broadcast members.
- Instagram is testing a new feature allowing businesses to add customer details.
- Threads feature to limit who can quote your post is now available to everyone.
- IG is rolling out likes feature for notes.
- Instagram testing a clear mode feature for Reels.
Meta
- Meta found subject to EU disinformation probe over handling of russian disinformation.
- WhatsApp launched new features, the main ones are launch of Community Events & Replies in Broadcasts.
- Meta implements new AI disclosure requirement with FB AI content label.
- Meta plans to cut off Oversight Board staff due to funding cuts.
- WhatsApp threatens to leave India if Gov pushes them to compromise encryption.
X (Twitter)
- X launches AI-powered news summaries for premium subscribers.
- X updates Analytics dashboard with more details.
- X (Twitter) changed how block works. If you block someone in a convo, you will be able to see their reply and report.
- X has launched Grok AI in the UK and Japan.
- Users can now spotlight their favourite X community on profile.
- X is testing a similar user engagement button structure like Pinterest.
- Users can now repost content from X communities.
- Subscriber badges showing up in live chats.
YouTube
- Youtube is testing a GenAI content inspiration tool on Studio desktop.
- Youtube is experimenting with Topics filter in comments section.
- Amazon and Youtube will be fighting for NBA Streaming rights when the current contract expires.
- Google Ads to pause low-activity keywords from June.
- Google expands Performance Max to online marketplaces.
- Google unveils new ways to reach streaming audiences.
- Google News deletes manual submission option.
- Google SGE answers now cost 80% less to generate.
Snapchat
- Snapchat launched new DM features, fixing typos, AI reminders & more.
- Snapchat partners with CreatorIQ to help with creator discovery & insights.
AI News
- Yelp launched new AI Assistant.
- A LLM called 'gpt2-chatbot' showed up recently and disappeared, people are speculating it was GPT-5.
- Tesco launches AI-powered Clubcard challenges for Shoppers.
- The next Safari 18 update rumoured to include AI browsing features.
- Github launches Copilot workspace for developers.
- Amazon Q, The AI Assistant for businesses and developer is here.
- Anthropic announced Claude AI app for iPhone and iPad.
Microsoft & LinkedIn
- Microsoft expands access to Copilot for all advertisers & more news.
- Estée Lauder and Microsoft’s new partnership to launch AI Innovation lab.
- Microsoft release its first responsible AI report.
- Microsoft partners with Alliance of Independent Agencies.
- LinkedIn launches new feature for publishers to stitch pre-roll ads from partners.
Marketing & AdTech
- Infillion has relaunched MediaMath.
- Roku and The Trade Desk announce new data-focused streaming partnership.
- Warner Bros. Discovery launches Olli A first-party data solution for advertisers.
- VSCO launched AI Hub connecting creators and photographers.
- Roblox launches In-platform video ads.
- Stagwell releases Q1 earnings report sharing an increase of 8% revenue versus the Q1 2023.
- MobileFuse expands partnership with LiveRamp.
- IAS and DoubleVerify called out for marking TIME's Person of the Year article as 'brand unsafe'.
- Fubo drops Warner Bros. Discovery Networks, Including HGTV, Food Networks, Discovery.
- Stagwell acquires Montreal Based Luxine Relations Publiques.
- Yahoo’s DSP partnership enables marketers to target Kroger’s retail audience.
- Asda and SMG’s retail media partnership moves to next level with launch of LS Eleven Media Services.
- Beehiiv, A newsletter marketing platform raises $33M in Series B funding.
- Qualtrics launches new Strategy & Research Suite for XM.
I hope this helps to plan your week ahead.
2024.05.07 15:39 lazymentors Social Media & Marketing Updates from last week to care about!
Top 6 Updates of the Week
- TikTok & UMG reached a music licensing agreement, the songs from artists are coming back.
- Instagram changed their algorithm, new changes will promote smaller accounts and original content.
- Google announced 6 new AI features for Performance Max.
- Snapchat announced new AR & ML Ad products at IAB NewFronts.
- Meta launches new AI ad features, Recommendations for Creator Marketplace & Reels Update.
- LinkedIn officially launched In-app professional games. What?
Trending News
- Pinterest shared Q1 earnings report, highlighting a jump from 498M monthly active users in Q4 to 518M users in Q1 2024.
- OpenAI partners with Financial Times to include summaries and links from the publisher.
- Liquid IV launches their first brand refresh since its official launch in 2012.
- Spotify testing artist short-form video clips on Playlist pages.
- Google’s search market share fell to 77.52% in April from 86.94%. Meanwhile both Bing & Yahoo grew their market share.
- Amazon's advertising revenue increased 24% in Q1.
- Spotify revealed new Digital Video Ad offerings at its first NewFronts event.
- Twitch rolls out TikTok-like short form content discovery feed. The feature was in testing for past few months.
- The Onion, the troll news website sold by G/O Media.
- Criteo reveals its retail media revenue in earnings call, signs of growth.
- McDonald’s and other big brands warn that low income consumers are cracking.
- MRC OOH Standards Phase 1 Document is here.
TikTok
- TikTok announces new update to their premium ad format “pulse ad suite”.
- TikTok announced Ticket sales partnership with CTS EVENTIM.
- CapCut has launched InspireVid, An AI video generator. (limited access)
- TikTok shares new insights and data into state of TikTok Shops.
- TikTok testing a new navigation bar with explore page, with photos content.
- US House Lawmakers presses FTC to investigate TikTok’s Use of Kids for Lobbying.
Instagram & Threads
- IG launches 4 new Stickers in Stories.
- Instagram testing a feature allowing creators to go live with only broadcast members.
- Instagram is testing a new feature allowing businesses to add customer details.
- Threads feature to limit who can quote your post is now available to everyone.
- IG is rolling out likes feature for notes.
- Instagram testing a clear mode feature for Reels.
Meta
- Meta found subject to EU disinformation probe over handling of russian disinformation.
- WhatsApp launched new features, the main ones are launch of Community Events & Replies in Broadcasts.
- Meta implements new AI disclosure requirement with FB AI content label.
- Meta plans to cut off Oversight Board staff due to funding cuts.
- WhatsApp threatens to leave India if Gov pushes them to compromise encryption.
X (Twitter)
- X launches AI-powered news summaries for premium subscribers.
- X updates Analytics dashboard with more details.
- X (Twitter) changed how block works. If you block someone in a convo, you will be able to see their reply and report.
- X has launched Grok AI in the UK and Japan.
- Users can now spotlight their favourite X community on profile.
- X is testing a similar user engagement button structure like Pinterest.
- Users can now repost content from X communities.
- Subscriber badges showing up in live chats.
YouTube
- Youtube is testing a GenAI content inspiration tool on Studio desktop.
- Youtube is experimenting with Topics filter in comments section.
- Amazon and Youtube will be fighting for NBA Streaming rights when the current contract expires.
- Google Ads to pause low-activity keywords from June.
- Google expands Performance Max to online marketplaces.
- Google unveils new ways to reach streaming audiences.
- Google News deletes manual submission option.
- Google SGE answers now cost 80% less to generate.
Snapchat
- Snapchat launched new DM features, fixing typos, AI reminders & more.
- Snapchat partners with CreatorIQ to help with creator discovery & insights.
AI News
- Yelp launched new AI Assistant.
- A LLM called 'gpt2-chatbot' showed up recently and disappeared, people are speculating it was GPT-5.
- Tesco launches AI-powered Clubcard challenges for Shoppers.
- The next Safari 18 update rumoured to include AI browsing features.
- Github launches Copilot workspace for developers.
- Amazon Q, The AI Assistant for businesses and developer is here.
- Anthropic announced Claude AI app for iPhone and iPad.
Microsoft & LinkedIn
- Microsoft expands access to Copilot for all advertisers & more news.
- Estée Lauder and Microsoft’s new partnership to launch AI Innovation lab.
- Microsoft release its first responsible AI report.
- Microsoft partners with Alliance of Independent Agencies.
- LinkedIn launches new feature for publishers to stitch pre-roll ads from partners.
Marketing & AdTech
- Infillion has relaunched MediaMath.
- Roku and The Trade Desk announce new data-focused streaming partnership.
- Warner Bros. Discovery launches Olli A first-party data solution for advertisers.
- VSCO launched AI Hub connecting creators and photographers.
- Roblox launches In-platform video ads.
- Stagwell releases Q1 earnings report sharing an increase of 8% revenue versus the Q1 2023.
- MobileFuse expands partnership with LiveRamp.
- IAS and DoubleVerify called out for marking TIME's Person of the Year article as 'brand unsafe'.
- Fubo drops Warner Bros. Discovery Networks, Including HGTV, Food Networks, Discovery.
- Stagwell acquires Montreal Based Luxine Relations Publiques.
- Yahoo’s DSP partnership enables marketers to target Kroger’s retail audience.
- Asda and SMG’s retail media partnership moves to next level with launch of LS Eleven Media Services.
- Beehiiv, A newsletter marketing platform raises $33M in Series B funding.
- Qualtrics launches new Strategy & Research Suite for XM.
I hope this helps to plan your week ahead.
2024.05.07 15:38 lazymentors Social Media & Marketing Updates from last week to care about!
Top 6 Updates of the Week
- TikTok & UMG reached a music licensing agreement, the songs from artists are coming back.
- Instagram changed their algorithm, new changes will promote smaller accounts and original content.
- Google announced 6 new AI features for Performance Max.
- Snapchat announced new AR & ML Ad products at IAB NewFronts.
- Meta launches new AI ad features, Recommendations for Creator Marketplace & Reels Update.
- LinkedIn officially launched In-app professional games. What?
Trending News
- Pinterest shared Q1 earnings report, highlighting a jump from 498M monthly active users in Q4 to 518M users in Q1 2024.
- OpenAI partners with Financial Times to include summaries and links from the publisher.
- Liquid IV launches their first brand refresh since its official launch in 2012.
- Spotify testing artist short-form video clips on Playlist pages.
- Google’s search market share fell to 77.52% in April from 86.94%. Meanwhile both Bing & Yahoo grew their market share.
- Amazon's advertising revenue increased 24% in Q1.
- Spotify revealed new Digital Video Ad offerings at its first NewFronts event.
- Twitch rolls out TikTok-like short form content discovery feed. The feature was in testing for past few months.
- The Onion, the troll news website sold by G/O Media.
- Criteo reveals its retail media revenue in earnings call, signs of growth.
- McDonald’s and other big brands warn that low income consumers are cracking.
- MRC OOH Standards Phase 1 Document is here.
TikTok
- TikTok announces new update to their premium ad format “pulse ad suite”.
- TikTok announced Ticket sales partnership with CTS EVENTIM.
- CapCut has launched InspireVid, An AI video generator. (limited access)
- TikTok shares new insights and data into state of TikTok Shops.
- TikTok testing a new navigation bar with explore page, with photos content.
- US House Lawmakers presses FTC to investigate TikTok’s Use of Kids for Lobbying.
Instagram & Threads
- IG launches 4 new Stickers in Stories.
- Instagram testing a feature allowing creators to go live with only broadcast members.
- Instagram is testing a new feature allowing businesses to add customer details.
- Threads feature to limit who can quote your post is now available to everyone.
- IG is rolling out likes feature for notes.
- Instagram testing a clear mode feature for Reels.
Meta
- Meta found subject to EU disinformation probe over handling of russian disinformation.
- WhatsApp launched new features, the main ones are launch of Community Events & Replies in Broadcasts.
- Meta implements new AI disclosure requirement with FB AI content label.
- Meta plans to cut off Oversight Board staff due to funding cuts.
- WhatsApp threatens to leave India if Gov pushes them to compromise encryption.
X (Twitter)
- X launches AI-powered news summaries for premium subscribers.
- X updates Analytics dashboard with more details.
- X (Twitter) changed how block works. If you block someone in a convo, you will be able to see their reply and report.
- X has launched Grok AI in the UK and Japan.
- Users can now spotlight their favourite X community on profile.
- X is testing a similar user engagement button structure like Pinterest.
- Users can now repost content from X communities.
- Subscriber badges showing up in live chats.
YouTube
- Youtube is testing a GenAI content inspiration tool on Studio desktop.
- Youtube is experimenting with Topics filter in comments section.
- Amazon and Youtube will be fighting for NBA Streaming rights when the current contract expires.
- Google Ads to pause low-activity keywords from June.
- Google expands Performance Max to online marketplaces.
- Google unveils new ways to reach streaming audiences.
- Google News deletes manual submission option.
- Google SGE answers now cost 80% less to generate.
Snapchat
- Snapchat launched new DM features, fixing typos, AI reminders & more.
- Snapchat partners with CreatorIQ to help with creator discovery & insights.
AI News
- Yelp launched new AI Assistant.
- A LLM called 'gpt2-chatbot' showed up recently and disappeared, people are speculating it was GPT-5.
- Tesco launches AI-powered Clubcard challenges for Shoppers.
- The next Safari 18 update rumoured to include AI browsing features.
- Github launches Copilot workspace for developers.
- Amazon Q, The AI Assistant for businesses and developer is here.
- Anthropic announced Claude AI app for iPhone and iPad.
Microsoft & LinkedIn
- Microsoft expands access to Copilot for all advertisers & more news.
- Estée Lauder and Microsoft’s new partnership to launch AI Innovation lab.
- Microsoft release its first responsible AI report.
- Microsoft partners with Alliance of Independent Agencies.
- LinkedIn launches new feature for publishers to stitch pre-roll ads from partners.
Marketing & AdTech
- Infillion has relaunched MediaMath.
- Roku and The Trade Desk announce new data-focused streaming partnership.
- Warner Bros. Discovery launches Olli A first-party data solution for advertisers.
- VSCO launched AI Hub connecting creators and photographers.
- Roblox launches In-platform video ads.
- Stagwell releases Q1 earnings report sharing an increase of 8% revenue versus the Q1 2023.
- MobileFuse expands partnership with LiveRamp.
- IAS and DoubleVerify called out for marking TIME's Person of the Year article as 'brand unsafe'.
- Fubo drops Warner Bros. Discovery Networks, Including HGTV, Food Networks, Discovery.
- Stagwell acquires Montreal Based Luxine Relations Publiques.
- Yahoo’s DSP partnership enables marketers to target Kroger’s retail audience.
- Asda and SMG’s retail media partnership moves to next level with launch of LS Eleven Media Services.
- Beehiiv, A newsletter marketing platform raises $33M in Series B funding.
- Qualtrics launches new Strategy & Research Suite for XM.
I hope this helps to plan your week ahead.
2024.05.07 15:37 lazymentors You missed the marketing news from last week to care about!
Top 6 Updates of last Week
- TikTok & UMG reached a music licensing agreement, the songs from artists are coming back.
- Instagram changed their algorithm, new changes will promote smaller accounts and original content.
- Google announced 6 new AI features for Performance Max.
- Snapchat announced new AR & ML Ad products at IAB NewFronts.
- Meta launches new AI ad features, Recommendations for Creator Marketplace & Reels Update.
- LinkedIn officially launched In-app professional games. What?
Trending News
- Pinterest shared Q1 earnings report, highlighting a jump from 498M monthly active users in Q4 to 518M users in Q1 2024.
- OpenAI partners with Financial Times to include summaries and links from the publisher.
- Liquid IV launches their first brand refresh since its official launch in 2012.
- Spotify testing artist short-form video clips on Playlist pages.
- Google’s search market share fell to 77.52% in April from 86.94%. Meanwhile both Bing & Yahoo grew their market share.
- Amazon's advertising revenue increased 24% in Q1.
- Spotify revealed new Digital Video Ad offerings at its first NewFronts event.
- Twitch rolls out TikTok-like short form content discovery feed. The feature was in testing for past few months.
- The Onion, the troll news website sold by G/O Media.
- Criteo reveals its retail media revenue in earnings call, signs of growth.
- McDonald’s and other big brands warn that low income consumers are cracking.
- MRC OOH Standards Phase 1 Document is here.
TikTok
- TikTok announces new update to their premium ad format “pulse ad suite”.
- TikTok announced Ticket sales partnership with CTS EVENTIM.
- CapCut has launched InspireVid, An AI video generator. (limited access)
- TikTok shares new insights and data into state of TikTok Shops.
- TikTok testing a new navigation bar with explore page, with photos content.
- US House Lawmakers presses FTC to investigate TikTok’s Use of Kids for Lobbying.
Instagram & Threads
- IG launches 4 new Stickers in Stories.
- Instagram testing a feature allowing creators to go live with only broadcast members.
- Instagram is testing a new feature allowing businesses to add customer details.
- Threads feature to limit who can quote your post is now available to everyone.
- IG is rolling out likes feature for notes.
- Instagram testing a clear mode feature for Reels.
Meta
- Meta found subject to EU disinformation probe over handling of russian disinformation.
- WhatsApp launched new features, the main ones are launch of Community Events & Replies in Broadcasts.
- Meta implements new AI disclosure requirement with FB AI content label.
- Meta plans to cut off Oversight Board staff due to funding cuts.
- WhatsApp threatens to leave India if Gov pushes them to compromise encryption.
X (Twitter)
- X launches AI-powered news summaries for premium subscribers.
- X updates Analytics dashboard with more details.
- X (Twitter) changed how block works. If you block someone in a convo, you will be able to see their reply and report.
- X has launched Grok AI in the UK and Japan.
- Users can now spotlight their favourite X community on profile.
- X is testing a similar user engagement button structure like Pinterest.
- Users can now repost content from X communities.
- Subscriber badges showing up in live chats.
YouTube
- Youtube is testing a GenAI content inspiration tool on Studio desktop.
- Youtube is experimenting with Topics filter in comments section.
- Amazon and Youtube will be fighting for NBA Streaming rights when the current contract expires.
- Google Ads to pause low-activity keywords from June.
- Google expands Performance Max to online marketplaces.
- Google unveils new ways to reach streaming audiences.
- Google News deletes manual submission option.
- Google SGE answers now cost 80% less to generate.
Snapchat
- Snapchat launched new DM features, fixing typos, AI reminders & more.
- Snapchat partners with CreatorIQ to help with creator discovery & insights.
AI News
- Yelp launched new AI Assistant.
- A LLM called 'gpt2-chatbot' showed up recently and disappeared, people are speculating it was GPT-5.
- Tesco launches AI-powered Clubcard challenges for Shoppers.
- The next Safari 18 update rumoured to include AI browsing features.
- Github launches Copilot workspace for developers.
- Amazon Q, The AI Assistant for businesses and developer is here.
- Anthropic announced Claude AI app for iPhone and iPad.
Microsoft & LinkedIn
- Microsoft expands access to Copilot for all advertisers & more news.
- Estée Lauder and Microsoft’s new partnership to launch AI Innovation lab.
- Microsoft release its first responsible AI report.
- Microsoft partners with Alliance of Independent Agencies.
- LinkedIn launches new feature for publishers to stitch pre-roll ads from partners.
Marketing & AdTech
- Infillion has relaunched MediaMath.
- Roku and The Trade Desk announce new data-focused streaming partnership.
- Warner Bros. Discovery launches Olli A first-party data solution for advertisers.
- VSCO launched AI Hub connecting creators and photographers.
- Roblox launches In-platform video ads.
- Stagwell releases Q1 earnings report sharing an increase of 8% revenue versus the Q1 2023.
- MobileFuse expands partnership with LiveRamp.
- IAS and DoubleVerify called out for marking TIME's Person of the Year article as 'brand unsafe'.
- Fubo drops Warner Bros. Discovery Networks, Including HGTV, Food Networks, Discovery.
- Stagwell acquires Montreal Based Luxine Relations Publiques.
- Yahoo’s DSP partnership enables marketers to target Kroger’s retail audience.
- Asda and SMG’s retail media partnership moves to next level with launch of LS Eleven Media Services.
- Beehiiv, A newsletter marketing platform raises $33M in Series B funding.
- Qualtrics launches new Strategy & Research Suite for XM.
I hope this helps to plan your week ahead. Follow for more
2024.05.07 15:35 lazymentors What happened in Advertising & Marketing last week? (New launches)
Top 6 Updates of the Week
- TikTok & UMG reached a music licensing agreement, the songs from artists are coming back.
- Instagram changed their algorithm, new changes will promote smaller accounts and original content.
- Google announced 6 new AI features for Performance Max.
- Snapchat announced new AR & ML Ad products at IAB NewFronts.
- Meta launches new AI ad features, Recommendations for Creator Marketplace & Reels Update.
- LinkedIn officially launched In-app professional games. What?
Trending News
- Pinterest shared Q1 earnings report, highlighting a jump from 498M monthly active users in Q4 to 518M users in Q1 2024.
- OpenAI partners with Financial Times to include summaries and links from the publisher.
- Liquid IV launches their first brand refresh since its official launch in 2012.
- Spotify testing artist short-form video clips on Playlist pages.
- Google’s search market share fell to 77.52% in April from 86.94%. Meanwhile both Bing & Yahoo grew their market share.
- Amazon's advertising revenue increased 24% in Q1.
- Spotify revealed new Digital Video Ad offerings at its first NewFronts event.
- Twitch rolls out TikTok-like short form content discovery feed. The feature was in testing for past few months.
- The Onion, the troll news website sold by G/O Media.
- Criteo reveals its retail media revenue in earnings call, signs of growth.
- McDonald’s and other big brands warn that low income consumers are cracking.
- MRC OOH Standards Phase 1 Document is here.
TikTok
- TikTok announces new update to their premium ad format “pulse ad suite”.
- TikTok announced Ticket sales partnership with CTS EVENTIM.
- CapCut has launched InspireVid, An AI video generator. (limited access)
- TikTok shares new insights and data into state of TikTok Shops.
- TikTok testing a new navigation bar with explore page, with photos content.
- US House Lawmakers presses FTC to investigate TikTok’s Use of Kids for Lobbying.
Instagram & Threads
- IG launches 4 new Stickers in Stories.
- Instagram testing a feature allowing creators to go live with only broadcast members.
- Instagram is testing a new feature allowing businesses to add customer details.
- Threads feature to limit who can quote your post is now available to everyone.
- IG is rolling out likes feature for notes.
- Instagram testing a clear mode feature for Reels.
Meta
- Meta found subject to EU disinformation probe over handling of russian disinformation.
- WhatsApp launched new features, the main ones are launch of Community Events & Replies in Broadcasts.
- Meta implements new AI disclosure requirement with FB AI content label.
- Meta plans to cut off Oversight Board staff due to funding cuts.
- WhatsApp threatens to leave India if Gov pushes them to compromise encryption.
X (Twitter)
- X launches AI-powered news summaries for premium subscribers.
- X updates Analytics dashboard with more details.
- X (Twitter) changed how block works. If you block someone in a convo, you will be able to see their reply and report.
- X has launched Grok AI in the UK and Japan.
- Users can now spotlight their favourite X community on profile.
- X is testing a similar user engagement button structure like Pinterest.
- Users can now repost content from X communities.
- Subscriber badges showing up in live chats.
YouTube
- Youtube is testing a GenAI content inspiration tool on Studio desktop.
- Youtube is experimenting with Topics filter in comments section.
- Amazon and Youtube will be fighting for NBA Streaming rights when the current contract expires.
- Google Ads to pause low-activity keywords from June.
- Google expands Performance Max to online marketplaces.
- Google unveils new ways to reach streaming audiences.
- Google News deletes manual submission option.
- Google SGE answers now cost 80% less to generate.
Snapchat
- Snapchat launched new DM features, fixing typos, AI reminders & more.
- Snapchat partners with CreatorIQ to help with creator discovery & insights.
AI News
- Yelp launched new AI Assistant.
- A LLM called 'gpt2-chatbot' showed up recently and disappeared, people are speculating it was GPT-5.
- Tesco launches AI-powered Clubcard challenges for Shoppers.
- The next Safari 18 update rumoured to include AI browsing features.
- Github launches Copilot workspace for developers.
- Amazon Q, The AI Assistant for businesses and developer is here.
- Anthropic announced Claude AI app for iPhone and iPad.
Microsoft & LinkedIn
- Microsoft expands access to Copilot for all advertisers & more news.
- Estée Lauder and Microsoft’s new partnership to launch AI Innovation lab.
- Microsoft release its first responsible AI report.
- Microsoft partners with Alliance of Independent Agencies.
- LinkedIn launches new feature for publishers to stitch pre-roll ads from partners.
Marketing & AdTech
- Infillion has relaunched MediaMath.
- Roku and The Trade Desk announce new data-focused streaming partnership.
- Warner Bros. Discovery launches Olli A first-party data solution for advertisers.
- VSCO launched AI Hub connecting creators and photographers.
- Roblox launches In-platform video ads.
- Stagwell releases Q1 earnings report sharing an increase of 8% revenue versus the Q1 2023.
- MobileFuse expands partnership with LiveRamp.
- IAS and DoubleVerify called out for marking TIME's Person of the Year article as 'brand unsafe'.
- Fubo drops Warner Bros. Discovery Networks, Including HGTV, Food Networks, Discovery.
- Stagwell acquires Montreal Based Luxine Relations Publiques.
- Yahoo’s DSP partnership enables marketers to target Kroger’s retail audience.
- Asda and SMG’s retail media partnership moves to next level with launch of LS Eleven Media Services.
- Beehiiv, A newsletter marketing platform raises $33M in Series B funding.
- Qualtrics launches new Strategy & Research Suite for XM.
I hope this helps to plan your week ahead.
2024.05.04 07:32 Adorable-Memory-8070 mods delete if you feel needed
as i just saw another post about it as well it’s like people hardly post about actual 4-aco hcl or furmate what so ever guys those things could contain many different things that your stupid fucking lab tests aren’t going to be checking for im not sure if mods are okay with having people pm if they are having trouble and are only doing it because they can’t figure it out but your paying a lot for almost nothing why are you middle maning yourself by choice let’s go with even if they are entirely safe something i do not fucking believe that but that is my choice but why overpay for a legal chem that is randomly dosed and could contain other things that boost your serotonin or various other things. mixing such things could end vary bad for some people and i’m not talking about a bad trip. guys please just order from a vendor and use a scale like a normal person instead of funding these companies that could very will end up bringing unwanted attention to this chem if something dangerous does happen and the dea decides to just ban it instead of going after the people selling such random things your pockets and health will thank you. my point being please stop buying such things i can promise you a normal dose of 4-aco is safe there is no promises when your buying fuckin shit like shroomz and that trehouse or whatever other bullshit ass branding they put on it and even if they are safe literally just making a low effort product just bulk buying for cheap and ripping your stupid ass off. idk if it’s like kids who don’t know nothing about about rcs who stumbled across this shit on like a social media post or something like that but can’t use there head to actually figure out crypto do i actually have to say the word onion and keys to just get a sheet and test it but that’s a lot more work this is incredibly easy if you cant put these together idek if it’s a good idea for me to try and help them considering actual vendors are so easy to find guys please just do your research on your research and if you aren’t going to bother .stop doing rcs before you end up hurting yourself 4-aco is an extremely safe and fun chemical when used reasonably with very little downsides but buying this shit is not responsible drug use what so fucking ever. that is all i know it’s long because im on a good bit of speed but please actually consider what i am saying before you continue to get ripped off or possibly worse ingest a product that actually causes you harm. but if you trust your health in a 3rd party lab test that could never test for everything. you don’t need any 4-aco you need to go learn instead i will say it one last time for good measure STOP FUCKING BUYING RANDOM DOSED PRODUCTS THAT NO ONE CAN FULLY INFORM YOU ABOUT EXCEPT THE PERSON WHO CREATED IT THAT COULD VERY WELL CONTAIN THINGS THAT CAN MAKE 4-aco dangerous or literally 1000s of different contaminants that your fucking stupid lab test is not going to be able to detect.please stop funding these people and be a fucking adult. at best there essentially just reselling tiny amounts of 4-aco for in various candy it’s honestly sad to see this happening and i seriously hope it doesn’t result in a ban considering this is one of the few legal anlongs left since opiod,benzo and the occasional good stimulant one is all the rage to that community at this point. and it’s sad to see considering just how dangerous benzo rcs are and im not even going to speak on opiod ones hankfully the worst is gone i meet a dude who shot a lot of u-47 but was still kickin and it’s not like his arm had full narcosis but man those veins were terrifying . im just starting to feel like this isnt even an rc sub its just is this random product or will it make me trip
submitted by Adorable-Memory-8070 to 4acodmt [link] [comments]
2024.05.02 03:18 jmthornsburg May's Starlight Doughnut Lab flavors -- These are incredible every month.
 | submitted by jmthornsburg to cincinnati [link] [comments] |
2024.05.01 13:47 Vegetable-Band9245 diagnosed with AMRKD- almost died hyponurmia, no cysts seen but have all the symptoms ?
*Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease- the neuro/no sleep really for 2 days thing really effects me
submitted by Vegetable-Band9245 to ADPKD [link] [comments]
- small heart effusion as of Jan, I feel it's gotten worse
- can't do much physical stuff, I'm taking about even fix my hair:can't carry my 6 Month old son for more than 3 minutes, I feel so winded
- heart rate resting is 100 bo is 140/110.
- bp meds stopped workin bb actually just give me Palpitations now Went to Er, been struggling with hyponureemia along with other rare questionable dx labeled to me by Drs. I was literally told this will take my life by a dr and they don't even know what "this" is!. They contradict each other and don't agree on diagnosis. It's a nightmare.
- fainting recently in Middle of doing stuff. Cleaning wife's glasses for example. I'll faint for about 10 Seconds and wake Up with bad nerve pain in face and everywhere *great difficulty sleeping, it's like I'm wired on drugs. Up 2 days and sleep the third. I've said it feels like someone poisoned me *hyponureemia (low normal or just low/had always been smack in middle of normal prior)
- urine is very dilute per labs BUT too much sodium at same time. *itchy dry irritated skin *immmune system is weakening - I'm getting all kinds of weird manifestations, sore throat for a year, blisters for 2 years, pustules between my legs for 6 months on and off.
- my dr told Me today, my immune system is going to shit but can figure out why - scig failed too, I get really bad neuro issues from it and my neuro said we can try it again but since it's atypical and not chemical encephalitis, literature says I'll r race the same . He's pushing for plasma exchange and have been approved for rituxan but me and all drs are afraid that rituxan or even a weaker tnfa will kill me right now
- i fill up 2 bottles of urine on a 24 and I always get told, we Never see anyone fill up 1! *super dry eyes and mouth- one dr swears I have sjogrens he's rated me like 20 times for it.
- itchy dry skin suddenly *slougijg bad with showers - so much it turned like a burn and off went my epidermis for 4 months bad. Igg also dropped at this time. I started taking steroid for work gotten else and it fixed this temporarily; I still struggle . Drs ignored this one. Can't and won't figure it out apparently
- lactic acid high *sepsis penlonianajd uti often *rericulocyrosis keeps going up , dr stopped testing them *cd19+'keeps going up "not high enough to be major cancer" stopped testing it
- after last episode of sepsis, wbc seem to be ferments screwed up. High immature granulocyyes, high monopgills, low lymph, 19-21k wbc (tested blood and nothing grew) . Elevated esr 30-60 Normal crp PCP thinks it's all autoimmune but recognizes there's a small blood cancer chance although I've gained 20 Pounds on steroids in 2 months
- kin biopsy showed perivascular infiltrates, a lot of hyperpigmentation and amyloid. Amyloids pad negative
- blood ace levels continuesly really Low *renin and do are hardly measurable *proteins in urine, IGG etc aren't measurable, dr said we should recheck that. My renal did but wasn't worried but i am. It's really not even recognizable STILL?
- couldnrhisnstuffnfhays supposed to be coming out my pee be going to my brain and making it "high" for years and causing all these cerebral issues?
- should I get a new rena docl? If I'm going to need a new kidney or liver (organ or doc) I'd like to get a move on it. I have 4 small children and can't die right now if I can help it. *'is it typical for renal docs to Not know much about it? Spilled large amount of blood and moderate protein during sepsis , spilled a large amount of blood n no protein Monday )not septic) usually it's mild Or moderate "only". So confused. I have so many other autoimmune diseases as well
- I'm on steroids and this stuff has turned me into some kind of food addict: I can't stop eating. But what this brought to my attention so my stomach is super distended, even when eating just some. I need to eat laying down. Getting more palpitations laying down and I'm finding pale (just had ems called on em) because I'm losing all my. Color laying
2024.04.27 23:08 sto_shu Lab Got 3 Slices of Pizza w/Onions
Species: Dog
Age: +/- 5
Sex/Neuter status: Male, Neutered
Breed: American Yellow Lab Retriever
Body weight: +/-100lbs
History: Not much prior to this
Clinical signs: None at present?
Hi all, just looking for a bit of insight right now. I'll preface with saying I've already spoken to a local vet who didn't seem urgently concerned and just said to keep my eyes on him.
My wife and I are housesitting for my parents and taking care of their 2 dogs, 3 cats, 3 horses, and donkey. They've got an American Yellow Lab who is about as big and dumb as they come, but super sweet. My wife left 3 pieces of pizza on the counter in a place where she thought he couldn't reach and left to go to the bathroom, and when she came back the lab was licking the last of the crumbs off of the floor. So he's had 3 slices of Domino's pizza with onions, green pepper, and sausage. My main concern is the onions on the pizza and the garlic that I'm sure it's seasoned with, as I know they're poisonous. This happened about an hour ago and he's no different from his usual self whatsoever right now.
I'm fairly sure that he will probably be okay given his large size and the relatively small amount consumed, and the vet did not seem extremely concerned either, but I'm hoping someone might be able to offer some tips into exactly what kind of symptoms I should be looking out for in the coming hours/days as I'm a worrywart and will be keeping a very close eye on him. I have a couple of emergency vets I know are open late and Sundays that I can take him to if he does show concerning symptoms. He's proven to have a resilient system in the past when he's gotten into foods that he shouldn't (despite the family's best efforts), but this is the first thing that I know of that he's eaten that is explicitly toxic.
tl;dr 100lb lab ate 3 slices of Domino's pizza with onions, green pepper, and sausage, and doesn't currently seem sick but will be monitored closely.
Thanks very much in advance for any input
submitted by sto_shu to AskVet [link] [comments]
Age: +/- 5
Sex/Neuter status: Male, Neutered
Breed: American Yellow Lab Retriever
Body weight: +/-100lbs
History: Not much prior to this
Clinical signs: None at present?
Hi all, just looking for a bit of insight right now. I'll preface with saying I've already spoken to a local vet who didn't seem urgently concerned and just said to keep my eyes on him.
My wife and I are housesitting for my parents and taking care of their 2 dogs, 3 cats, 3 horses, and donkey. They've got an American Yellow Lab who is about as big and dumb as they come, but super sweet. My wife left 3 pieces of pizza on the counter in a place where she thought he couldn't reach and left to go to the bathroom, and when she came back the lab was licking the last of the crumbs off of the floor. So he's had 3 slices of Domino's pizza with onions, green pepper, and sausage. My main concern is the onions on the pizza and the garlic that I'm sure it's seasoned with, as I know they're poisonous. This happened about an hour ago and he's no different from his usual self whatsoever right now.
I'm fairly sure that he will probably be okay given his large size and the relatively small amount consumed, and the vet did not seem extremely concerned either, but I'm hoping someone might be able to offer some tips into exactly what kind of symptoms I should be looking out for in the coming hours/days as I'm a worrywart and will be keeping a very close eye on him. I have a couple of emergency vets I know are open late and Sundays that I can take him to if he does show concerning symptoms. He's proven to have a resilient system in the past when he's gotten into foods that he shouldn't (despite the family's best efforts), but this is the first thing that I know of that he's eaten that is explicitly toxic.
tl;dr 100lb lab ate 3 slices of Domino's pizza with onions, green pepper, and sausage, and doesn't currently seem sick but will be monitored closely.
Thanks very much in advance for any input
2024.04.27 13:05 Narrow_Emphasis_1834 Tried Intranasal L-Theanine + B12 For Enhanced Autonopotency
I recently experimented with a nasal spray combining L-theanine and vitamin B12 (as cyanocobalamin) to see if it could boost what I call my "autonopotency" - basically my mental autonomy, drive and self-direction. I'm always looking for nootropic stacks to optimize cognition and motivation.
The intranasal ROA definitely hits faster and harder compared to oral L-theanine and B12. Within minutes of spraying, I noticed a clear-headed, focused yet calm state of mind. The L-theanine seems to take the edge off caffeine jitters and any underlying anxiety, while the B12 provides an energy and mood lift. Together they have a synergistic "Zen-like" effect.
I felt more mentally "in the driver's seat", able to concentrate deeply on cognitively demanding tasks. Distractions seemed to fade into the background. At the same time, I had a greater sense of inner peace and equanimity - less prone to agitation or rumination. This lines up with L-theanine's effects on alpha brain waves and neurotransmitters.
As part of this self-experiment, I also tried a sublingual myricetin from Penchant Labs (penchant.bio). Myricetin is a flavonoid found in foods like onions, berries and red wine. Some research suggests it has neuroprotective and nootropic properties.
The myricetin seemed to complement and extend the effects of the L-theanine/B12 combo. It produced a clean, non-jittery energy boost and further enhanced my focus and processing speed. Shoutout to the Penchant team for their innovative products!
Overall, I'm impressed with this autonopotency-enhancing stack. The effects were noticeable and free of side effects, at least at the doses I used. As always, YMMV and do your own research before experimenting with any new substances. But if you're looking for a nootropic assist to your mental autonomy and self-regulated cognition, this is worth a shot (pun intended).
TL;DR: Intranasal L-theanine + cyanocobalamin, plus sublingual myricetin, synergistically boosted my autonopotency. Focused yet calm headspace, less distractible, improved mood and energy. Promising nootropic stack for optimizing self-directed cognition.
submitted by Narrow_Emphasis_1834 to penchantlabs [link] [comments]
The intranasal ROA definitely hits faster and harder compared to oral L-theanine and B12. Within minutes of spraying, I noticed a clear-headed, focused yet calm state of mind. The L-theanine seems to take the edge off caffeine jitters and any underlying anxiety, while the B12 provides an energy and mood lift. Together they have a synergistic "Zen-like" effect.
I felt more mentally "in the driver's seat", able to concentrate deeply on cognitively demanding tasks. Distractions seemed to fade into the background. At the same time, I had a greater sense of inner peace and equanimity - less prone to agitation or rumination. This lines up with L-theanine's effects on alpha brain waves and neurotransmitters.
As part of this self-experiment, I also tried a sublingual myricetin from Penchant Labs (penchant.bio). Myricetin is a flavonoid found in foods like onions, berries and red wine. Some research suggests it has neuroprotective and nootropic properties.
The myricetin seemed to complement and extend the effects of the L-theanine/B12 combo. It produced a clean, non-jittery energy boost and further enhanced my focus and processing speed. Shoutout to the Penchant team for their innovative products!
Overall, I'm impressed with this autonopotency-enhancing stack. The effects were noticeable and free of side effects, at least at the doses I used. As always, YMMV and do your own research before experimenting with any new substances. But if you're looking for a nootropic assist to your mental autonomy and self-regulated cognition, this is worth a shot (pun intended).
TL;DR: Intranasal L-theanine + cyanocobalamin, plus sublingual myricetin, synergistically boosted my autonopotency. Focused yet calm headspace, less distractible, improved mood and energy. Promising nootropic stack for optimizing self-directed cognition.
2024.04.26 17:19 Educational_Baby_754 Any idea why there no reserved slots for flashlight and walkie? [mods i use on photos]
![Any idea why there no reserved slots for flashlight and walkie? [mods i use on photos]](https://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/NC5ZDZUfG4xHWUD7psLTtaBatQIO4CnstqTcbdoBFAw.jpg "Any idea why there no reserved slots for flashlight and walkie? [mods i use on photos]") | submitted by Educational_Baby_754 to lethalcompany_mods [link] [comments] |
2024.04.24 19:18 Electrical-Ad328 Huge Comprehensive Korean Skincare/Makeup Review (My life's work, 50+ products)
HUGE Comprehensive Skincare Review (50+ products over 2 years)
Hi all! Since being in this sub, I’ve only recommended products here and there, but I wanted to give back- put in the effort to actually write a review of everything I’ve tried over the past 2 years. I appreciate users who post cohesive and knowledgeable reviews of entire brands or multiple products at once. Shoutout to the one person who inspired me on a recent rant and the person who made the legendary Isntree brand review post. Please feel free to add your thoughts here, ask me questions, or offer up some criticism on anything mentionedAbout me: 23, F, combo oily around nose/forehead/chin but overall slightly oily in general. Dry and flaky when it hits below 60 degrees F.
Concerns: Diet and hormone imbalance triggered acne jawline and cheeks, slightly enlarged pores around the cheeks, perpetual sebaceous filaments on chin that never go away. Genetically predisposed to rosacea but it’s never flared up before. Slight greyish hyperpigmentation from picking acne, redness.
Climate: US South, so, dry, humid, monsoons and dust storms all at once!!! Lots of triggering environmental allergens. Very hot very sunny. You can guess what state.
Foundation color: Mac NC25, Nars madeleine/Oslo, Chanel BD21, Cushion 21N (23s go orange)
Current routine:
Morning: COSRX Low pH good morning cleanser, Round Lab Dokdo toner (soak tissue on cheeks for 5 minutes for makeup prep), and AXIS Y Glow serum as moisturizer. Dear Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream/or Youth to People air whip moisturizer if I’m dry.
Night: Muji Mild cleansing oil, Roundlab Birch Cleanser, or every third day I use Papa Recipe Blemish Enzyme Cleanser, after cleansing oil. Dokdo toner layered 2-3 times. On days I don’t exfoliate with the Papa recipe, I use BOJ Ginseng Revive Eye serum and Abib Sedum Hyaluron Creme to finish.
I will split up the products by hair, skincare, makeup, subcategorize by brand, and rate them on a scale of 1-10 along with a short blurb on how/if it worked out for me!
_____________________________________________________
Hair
Elizavecca
Elizavecca Collagen Coating Protein Ion Injection (CER-100) 50mL: (8/10) Was good, not heavy and smoothing on damp hair for the days I didn’t feel like styling or wanted to give my dead hair a rest. Would not recommend for daily use, especially if youre someone who’s hair can’t handle much protein. Also not a fan of collagen as a topical marketing gimmick! WRP Because it’s affordable.
A’pieu
A’Pieu Raspberry Hair Vinegar: (7/10) Smelled better than using diluted ACV like I sometimes did, but it didn’t do much but encourage me to massage my scalp and do a biweekly deep clean of my hair. I will be oily regardless because of working out, styling, climate, and my tendency to touch my scalp. WNRP.
Makeup
2aN
2aN Dual Cheek #3 (8/10) Really pretty layered watercolor type of blush combo, comes with a super high quality brush and a cover for the bristles. Only downside is that all of the colors are so so so light, they only show when I am pale. WRP if darker shades offered.
Clio
CLIO Pro Eye Palette Ingeolmi At Home Special Edition Ingeolmi Daeng Daeng (7/10) Versatile light nudes/beiges with neutral colors. Just not a fan of the glitters. WNRP.
CLIO Sharp So Simple Waterproof Pencil Liner (Renewal) in Vanilla Beige and Black Brown (10/10): VB for aegyosal shadow and triangle zone, black brown for emphasizing lash line. Perfect no makeup makeup staple, doesn’t move all day and blends with precise, thick brush. WRP.
Dasique
dasique Mood Blur Lip Pencil 08 Over Pink: (8/10) Lasts a while, but is slightly chalky. Comes with a lot of liner but this brand is always overpriced considering there is barely variation in their products. WNRP.
Fillimilli
Fillimilli Scalp Cooling Brush (10/10): Super easy to pull hair from, doesn’t collect dust at all, 99% of my brushes do. Not detangle friendly though. WRP but it seems durable so I may never need to.
Fillimilli Pure Cotton Puff 100 Sheets: Not rating because its an unfair judgement. I purchased these thinking that they were much thinner, pads for making DIY toner masks, but these are too thick and are better for wiping off makeup or cleansing. WNRP
Fillimilli Point Liner Brush 514: (10/10) Super dense and perfect for blending aegyosal and eyeliner, I love it. Fluffy enough to not be streaky either. WRP
NAMING
NAMING. Layered Matte Fit Cushion in 21N + Matching Primer in Regular Size: (8.5/10) This is a great cushion for people with skin concerns that run oily. It is low/medium coverage, on days where I need to put something on but want my skin to breathe, I’ll use this. I’m a firm believer in a light base and concise spot concealing. After 5 hours, there were no oil spots on the side of my nostril. This ran slightly pale, but it was perfectly neutral. Lasted very well and wasn’t a powdery matte finish, especially with the primer, I never broke out with it. WRP the normal finish cushion.
peripera
peripera Pure Blushed Sunshine Cheek in Rosy Brown: (6/10) Very pigmented and blended well, but virtually 0 lasting power even with nuclear weapon grade setting spray. I thought it would be more beige or muted. This leaned very orange on my neutral skin, but it would potentially look beautiful blended with contour on a warmer person. WNRP.
peripera Pure Blushed Sunshine Cheek in Calm Pink: (7/10) I think this color is agreeable and looks good on anyone. Neutral AF, just doesn’t last. WNRP
peripera Ink Thin Thin Brush Liner in Brown Film and Black noir: (9/10) Super affordable, flick isn’t messy even with my hooded eyes, lasts 8+ hours. Felt tip doesn’t fray with use. WRP
peripera Water Bare Tint Peritage Collection in Mute Paradise: (9/10) A lovely bunny tongue color. Super super super pigmented, doesn’t cling to my dryness or create dead skin buildup in the creases/corners of my lips. Would not be darker skin friendly. WRP.
peripera Water Bare Tint in Universal Coral: (7/10) Just bright pink, not coral in any sense. Lasts forever though! WNRP.
peripera Ink Mood Glowy Tint Set Maltese Special Edition in Cerise Pink: (5/10) Pretty but unfortunately too light for me, not sure how considering I’m pretty white. WNRP
ROM&ND
romand Juicy Lasting Tint Bare Juicy Series 22 Pomelo Skin: (10/10) Brownish pinkish nude that is my exact lip color. Wear it every day. WRP.
romand Juicy Lasting Tint Bare Juicy Series 23 Nucudamia: (10/10) Pomelo base, nucudamia inner lip. If warm nudes look goofy and washed out on you, try this. WRP
romand Juicy Lasting Tint Bare Juicy Series Bare Grape: (10/10) Everyday cool tone necessity, this is my second favorite one.
romand - Juicy Lasting Tint Autumn Fruit Series 11 Pink Pumpkin: (9/10) Surprisingly not a casual lip color, like firetruck red, brown and coral were all mixed. Looks good on my darker skinned friend though. WNRP.
romand Glasting Melting Balm 01 Coco Nude (8/10) Finally a gorgeous true brownish nude and not a glorifed muted pink AGAIN! Does melt super super easy so I can’t carry it around where I like, and it does pill up with even slight dryness. Rating it 8 just because the color is too good. WNRP.
Too cool for school
too cool for school Frottage Pencil #11: (5/10) This was so pretty and such a pigmented, easy to apply, muted glimmer. Potentially the best aegyosal hack. The tip broke and every time I sharpened it, it kept breaking..got to use it twice. WNRP.
Skincare
Abib
Abib Collagen Gel Mask Sheet Heartleaf Jelly: (8/10) Great absorption into my skin, helps redness infinitely. Slips off so much that you have to lay flat. WNRP.
Abib Collagen Gel Mask Sedum Jelly: (7/10) Not the most hydrating and same issue of slippage. WNRP.
Abib Gummy Sheet Mask Collagen Milk Sticker: (9/10) Loved it, tons of product and extremely nourishing. Barrier repair day mask. WRP, just hate the collagen branding again, but whatever it is: it works!
Abib Gummy Sheet Mask Hyaluron Sticker: (9/10) Yielded the same results as the Collagen Milk. This may be better for oily super super acne prone skin! WRP.
Abib Gummy Sheet Mask Heartleaf Sticker: (10/10) Holy Grail potential. Mother potential. So calming and hydrating and soothing and all of the above without the risk of possibly breaking out. WRP and have RPd 5 times.
Abib Mild Acidic pH Sheet Mask Heartleaf Fit : (10/10) Feels about the same as Heartleaf sticker, but I think it leaves less of a finish and no stickiness. WRP.
Abib Mild Acidic pH Sheet Mask Yuja Fit: (10/10) Was genuinely so brightening I almost bought the toner! WRP!!!!
Abib Pine Needle Pore Pad Clear Touch: (9/10) Lasted for freaking ever and kept my oily tendencies at bay! Not sure it did much for clearing up sebaceous filaments or blackheads, but it did approve the tightness of my skin GENUINELY- not from appearing or feeling dry.
Abib Sedum Hyaluron Crème Hydrating Pot: (8.5/10) Was sorta scared this would break me out, but it didn’t! Makes your base makeup gorgeous, no possible patches or separation, just make sure your base is water based not oil. MRP? There are better, more moisturizing products, but the gel/creme hybrid feel of it is great for combo people.
AXIS Y
AXIS Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum: (10/10) Been using it super consistently for 2 years, this product is probably the reason I don’t have a trillion acne scars making my cheeks look like a coral reef or dull complexion. Had a few sunburns over the summer and this helped the sunspots tremendously, taking care before they could even fully fledge. Recommend this to everyone. WRP, HRP.
Beauty of Joseon
Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum: (10/10) I was so timid to use retinoids and while this isnt strong at all, its not nothing! It works, genuinely. Closed comodones are few and far between since I started using this on my face. Haven’t seen eye results, but this product is GOOD!!! WRP, in my cart.
Dear, Klairs
Dear, Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream: (10/10) Probably the only product aside from masks that has immediately helped with inflamed red skin. I was scared it would be pore clogging but it’s safe for clog-prone skin! Genuinely so nourishing and can be used as a pack at night or in the morning too, it’s not too rich. WRP I just need a SALE!
Isntree
Isntree Green Tea Fresh Cleanser: (9/10) Definitely cleaned very well especially if you’re using an oil cleanser as well, good on its own too! No squeaking or dryness on my skin detected. WRP.
Isntree Onion Newpair Gel Cream: (8/10) Wanted to love this, and for the most part it was fairly beneficial for my skin, tranexemic acid is great for my skin. It couldn’t really double as a moisturizer, even during oily times, so it sort of felt like an extra step that was a bit heavy on my skin and at times my makeup pilled if I added this to the mix. WNRP but it was a good product and it could work for others.
Isntree Ultra-Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Toner: (10/10) Saw a glowing review from a skincare vlogger I actually trust and was not let down! However, I prefer Round lab in terms of feel. This needed to be layered 3+ times until it felt genuinely nourishing, but my skin looked awesome, felt bouncy and moist and hydrated. Not in the “glowy” way influencers try to sell you when it’s literally just freaking WET OR OILY, but legit, this makes you look alive. If you’re trying to decide between this and round lab dokdo, this one doesn’t exfoliate. Both are holy grail material just choose according to your needs. WRP
Laneige
LANEIGE Water Sleeping Mask: (5/10) Just as useless as the lip masks. Literally doesn't absorb at all. WNRP. Abib sedum has the same feel and actually works.
MEDIHEAL
MEDIHEAL The I.P.I Ampoule Mask Sheet: (10/10) Had a new freaking face the next day and it definitely was not placebo or coincidence. Love this, its always sold out though. I think this is the lightmax rebranded! WRP!!!!!! Ranked 2nd in my Mediheal stash.
MEDIHEAL D:NA Proatin Mask Sheet: (7/10) Unfortunately just kinda sat on my skin and never absorbed? WNRP. Unsure of the buzzwords in this marketing too lol.
MEDIHEAL Watermide Essential Mask Sheet: (8/10) Decent, not the best in the Essentials though. WNRP.
MEDIHEAL Tea Tree Essential Mask Sheet: (10/10) THE Mask you use mid breakout or you're infinitely stressed, anticipating one. Somehow dries out every cystic pimple monster aninch into the epidermis but also hydrates your skin? Amazing how its basically spot treatment but works all over your face too. I bought 40 of these last month. WRP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Ranked 1st.
MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask Sheet: (9/10) Was neglecting skincare for a bit because I stopped breaking out, and felt dry and dull. Another tried and true mediheal mask, my 4thfavorite. WRP
MEDIHEAL Madecassoside Essential Mask Sheet: (10/10) Great for pre-makeup, soothing inflammation and nourishing. Sometimes I won’t even wear makeup after doing one in the morning. One of the very very few products that yielded immediate results for me. WRP and just bought 10.
MUJI
MUJI Mild Oil Cleansing: (9/10) I tried to use this on and off frequently and sparingly over a few months to determine if it was helping or making my clogged pores worse. Luckily, my skin, which is suuuuuuuper reactive to these kinds of products (balms, oils) did take this well. I’d say its pretty heavy duty and can be slightly drying even! WRP and have twice.
Numbuzin
numbuzin No.5+ Vitamin-Niacinamide Concentrated Pad 70P: (9/10) Loved these bad boys! Not moisturizing, but they definitely are brightening, after a little over two weeks my dullness was improved by a lot, even though I thought the ingredients wouldn’t work for me. If you are a young woman from India with a Twisted movie pfp, thank you for your glowing rec of these!! WRP but not while I’m actively breaking out.
Olive Young
Olive Young Care Plus Scar Cover Spot Patch 324 Counts: (1000000/10) I use these as routinely as I take my meds in the morning and afternoon. Get the biggest sizes available! You think you won't need that size but you will, trust. If you cut your face dermaplanning or shaving, put one over the cut and it will keep it from getting infected, worse or scarring. WRP and have 4 times.
papa recipe
papa recipe Blemish Enzyme Powder Cleanser: (8/10) I love powder enzyme cleansers because my first kbeauty purchase was the TONYMOLY rice one! This one isn’t as exfoliating as the TONYMOLY one, but I do like to use it when my nose area starts to get flaky under makeup. Good ingredients. MRP.
ROUND LAB
ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Cleanser: (8/10) Solid, not dehydrating nor moisturizing, but not irritating either. MRP.
Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Toner: (10/10) Deserves all the hype. Hydrating AND occlusive, with the ingredients list and research to back it. Read a JSTOR article about one of the ingredients effectiveness and realized not many products even use it! WRP and have about 3 times.
ROUND LAB PINE CALMING CICA MASK SHEET: (10.10) Felt like a new layer of skin once I peeled it off! It absorbed a lot but it didn’t go dry quickly. Bigger and stretchier than most masks and stays on SO well, love the gauzy feel.
SKIN1004
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule: (7/10) Pretty moisturizing and feels nice, but I think initially it may have broken me out a tiny bit. Does nothing for redness but helps any inflammation from picking or allergies. WNRP.
2024.04.21 02:24 1000andonenites Puttanesca-inspired Pasta, 2 versions
I have always wanted to make puttanesca pasta since I heard of it when reading "A Series of Unfortunate Events" with my daughter when she was 11 (now a young adult, moved away). For some reason the regular supermarkets in my small provincial town don't carry anchovies and so I never did, and I never remember when visiting fancy European-style shops as I do once in a while.
I saw it mentioned here and I was determined to approximate. Here is how it went down:
Base sauce: some chopped onion and garlic, sizzled up, added a tin of Roma tomatoes ("mutti" brand, supermarket doesn't have the San marzano the recipe called for).
Some pieces of frozen parmesan rind I had (no additional cheese).
Sliced Kalamata olives.
Red pepper flakes.
Dried basil (may have been expired)
Pasta water.
Separately, I heated up some smoked tinned oysters for myself.
Partner does not eat meat so I added a few spoonfuls of tinned chickpeas.
I added spaghetti to the bubbling sauce.
When we served, I added the oysters to the sauce on my plate.
Served with a nice green spinach salad with homemade "quickled" onions.
And some cheap Portuguese white wine "The Lab" with a silhouette of a dog on the label (hic) (I had an old boss who had sworn as a young adult to only drink wine which had animals on the label, this made me remember her, I wonder what she's up to these days) (hic).
Anyway everythign came together quite nicely, my incredibly fussy partner ate (while cutting up the sliced olives even smaller, which was weird but whatever), it was a lovely Saturday night date-ish meal, and I'm quite sure, were I a Neopolitan whore, I would have been able to seduce a ton of men with it. As I'm not, I will enjoy the ton of leftovers as weekday meals at my office, and now I will have another glass of The Lab (hic).
submitted by 1000andonenites to Cooking [link] [comments]
I saw it mentioned here and I was determined to approximate. Here is how it went down:
Base sauce: some chopped onion and garlic, sizzled up, added a tin of Roma tomatoes ("mutti" brand, supermarket doesn't have the San marzano the recipe called for).
Some pieces of frozen parmesan rind I had (no additional cheese).
Sliced Kalamata olives.
Red pepper flakes.
Dried basil (may have been expired)
Pasta water.
Separately, I heated up some smoked tinned oysters for myself.
Partner does not eat meat so I added a few spoonfuls of tinned chickpeas.
I added spaghetti to the bubbling sauce.
When we served, I added the oysters to the sauce on my plate.
Served with a nice green spinach salad with homemade "quickled" onions.
And some cheap Portuguese white wine "The Lab" with a silhouette of a dog on the label (hic) (I had an old boss who had sworn as a young adult to only drink wine which had animals on the label, this made me remember her, I wonder what she's up to these days) (hic).
Anyway everythign came together quite nicely, my incredibly fussy partner ate (while cutting up the sliced olives even smaller, which was weird but whatever), it was a lovely Saturday night date-ish meal, and I'm quite sure, were I a Neopolitan whore, I would have been able to seduce a ton of men with it. As I'm not, I will enjoy the ton of leftovers as weekday meals at my office, and now I will have another glass of The Lab (hic).