Strattera first working day

I do have some good going on such as I won't be without shelter and I'm not losing my jobs to my knowledge. But this is stupid and awful and no one should have to live like this.

I’ll provide as much context as possible because, well, I am “full tilt” or ready to tell my landlord I want to void my lease renewal and pack my bags.
I’ve lived in my Boston apartment for a full year now, just renewed 2 days ago. I live right in downtown (near the back Bay Area) in a nice condo building (old building but nice units). There are probably 25 units in my building, I am on the first floor (but there are still units below me).
My apartment has a TON of windows, I’ve had them open for a few days due to nice weather, but they all have screens. Today, after a small light rainstorm (a few really nice weather days before this), I noticed my 3 cats all losing their mind and all of a sudden they ran to the kitchen.
Under my trash can, I found a MASSIVE roach, when I say massive I mean the biggest bug I’ve ever seen, it was like 2 inches long (picture below) - my cats were trying to kill it. I killed it, sealed it in an old candle, wrapped it in a trash bag, and immediately threw it in the dumpster outside.
After this, I searched my entire apartment (didn’t find anything), scrubbed the F out of my kitchen and living room, mopped all the floors, cleaned my cat box, etc.
My apartment is already very clean, my girlfriend and I are very clean people, but I instantly panicked because to me cockroaches = fear and a terrible living situation.
My question is, what type of cockroach is this? Should I be panicked? What should I do to make sure nothing bad happens? And do I need to contact my landlord?
Please bear with me, as I have serious anxiety and I’m entirely freaking out at the moment. Thanks in advance and ANY advice is greatly appreciated.

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It is not uncommon for people to come to the faith through sorrow or joy. I would like to share with readers a vivid story from my childhood, which made a strong impression on me and afterwards helped me come to the faith, get baptized and become a church-goer.
Our family was on a business trip to Mongolia in the 1980s. It was in the small town of Erdenet. We had a lot of friends there who we would visit regularly.
Among my parents’ acquaintances there was a married couple, both pediatricians—Mikhail and Lyudmila. They were a beautiful and interesting couple, but childless.
One day Mikhail and Lyudmila invited some close friends to their home; they said they would reveal a secret to all of them… Everyone was intrigued. They imagined various things, but no one hit the nail on the head.
Mikhail, an adult man who went in for sports, laughed and cried like a child. He now stood up, now sat down while sharing the secret with us:
“Lyudmila and I have been married for over twenty years now. We got married in our first year at university. We have always dreamed of a big, closely-knit family, with both daughters and sons, with a lot of noise and fun at home. We so wanted to hear children's laughter! But the doctors diagnosed infertility. We went to various sanitariums, underwent mud therapy and all kinds of other procedures. We saw the most famous doctors, and my wife courageously did various tests, some of which were painful—but it was all in vain.
“Three years ago we moved to Mongolia. Before that, there had been business trips to Latin America and Africa. And now Lyuda¹ is in her first trimester. We didn’t tell anyone earlier because we couldn't believe it and were afraid it was a mistake. The first months of pregnancy are very sensitive and complicated. The gynecologist said that if we managed to get through the first three months, then we wouldn't have to worry anymore.”
Silence began to reign after such a speech. Even we, the children, stopped joking and laughing, somehow feeling the importance of what had been said, intuitively realizing that we had come into contact with a miracle.
After a few minutes the hospitable hosts were bombarded with questions.
Lyudmila was shining with happiness:
“I had never thought that I, a physician and the author of several scientific articles, would utter the word ‘miracle’. But I can't call it otherwise! I have a grandmother who is a long-liver. Twenty years ago she said that she would pray for me in front of an icon of the Most Holy Mother of God. She believed in the mercy of the Lord and His Most Pure Mother. I showed understanding, thinking that she was an elderly woman and these were remnants of the past…
“But what has happened to us demonstrates that my religious grandmother was right: the mercy and love of the Lord are always with us. So many years of treatment and hope... Now we are both almost forty years old, and in six months we will become the happiest mother and father.”
Everyone congratulated the couple, saying kind and beautiful words. Then the guests tried to “figure out” what exactly had helped Lyudmila get pregnant. They suggested many different explanations: One of them assumed that a change of climate had had a wholesome effect on the woman's body, another one supposed that the presence of mountains and a slightly high radioactivity level had played a role, while others believed that the treatment, albeit belatedly, had borne fruit at last.
Lyudmila put a crystal glass of homemade fruit drink on the table and said seriously:
“I see only one explanation: It’s neither the mountains, nor the climate, nor the Gobi Desert. It’s a miracle. My grandmother turned out to be much smarter than me. She always said that we would have a child, because the Lord and His Most Pure Mother are merciful. But until recently I stubbornly believed that since the doctors had diagnosed infertility, no prayers could help. Foolishly, I equated my grandmother’s earnest prayers with the spells of various psychics who ‘cure’ childlessness with a decoction of a cat’s tail or by sprinkling ashes on the bed! As soon as my pregnancy was confirmed, we immediately called my grandmother. I cried with joy and then, of course, I apologized for being skeptical about her words about God and faith. I thanked her.
“But, nevertheless, my Komsomol upbringing affected me. At the end of the conversation, I asked my grandmother why the Lord had sent us a baby only twenty years later, if she had started praying earlier. My wise grandmother replied that I would understand it myself. Now I know that getting ready to become a mother at my age (over thirty-five), when all attempts to cure infertility did not help; when, according to all biological laws, the chances of getting pregnant even for a very healthy woman decline, is a miracle of God. This is the power and mercy of the Lord. I recall how my grandmother once told me a chapter from the Gospel about how the elderly holy Prophet Zachariah and the holy Righteous Elizabeth became the parents of the holy Prophet John the Baptist, and how the Archangel Gabriel announced the Good News to the Virgin Mary… Before confirming my pregnancy, the doctors had ruled out uterine fibroids and cancer, re-examining everything and repeating tests many times, and only then did they tell me the good news: ‘Believe it or not, but marvel—you will be a mother.’ When I asked them how it was possible, they smiled and said that such a phenomenon could only be called a miracle, as they could not explain it from a scientific point of view.”
The whole town of Erdenet followed the events in their family. Everyone offered their help, gave children’s clothes and toys. Lyudmila’s husband walked with her before going to bed, bought groceries himself and cooked only healthy food intended for expectant mothers.
After a while, the couple went to Moscow for the birth. In due time, a beautiful, healthy boy was born.
Later, the happy parents sent us a long letter: after a month and a half, the baby was baptized with the name Zakhary (Zachariah).
At that time, the authorities began to return monasteries and churches to the Russian Orthodox Church, and many people began to go to church for confession and Communion. Mikhail and Lyudmila converted to the faith as well.
Alexandra Gripas

Please read - neurodivergent and tendency to ramble a bit but I get to my point eventually 🤣
I’m nearly done with my first album and poor health means that I think I need another rest from the game unfortunately 🙄 as my eyes and coordination are a nightmare! 😅
Anyways.. I need to gift my 4⭐️ duplicates, before I open the vault/trade what I have for what I need/use the quick wins wild card soooooooo
Please do the following
1, upvote for visibility
2, screenshot the card you need (I’d prefer a split screen with this post)
3, link and IGN please
4, just for fun - what’s your favourite song from the 80s or 90s?
I’ll choose at random at some point in the next few hours. Just for full disclosure, I’m looking for Honky Tonk for a friend so if I see someone to trade with before the giveaway is over then one sticker might no longer be available. I have 2 of a few though.
The same giveaway is on the Monopoly Go subreddit, I was going to alternate days but I’ll share each day in case I accidentally pull my last sticker
Oooh lastly - NO PMs/DMs.
Thank you 💛

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Introduction
In the fast-paced and ever-evolving tech industry, Google stands out not only for its innovation but also for its progressive approach to employee work arrangements. Known for its vibrant work culture, Google has consistently been at the forefront of adopting flexible work policies that go beyond the traditional desk. This essay delves into Google's flexible work arrangements, including those at Google offices in India, exploring their origins, implementation, impact on employees, and the potential lessons other organizations can draw from Google's experiences.
The Evolution of Flexible Work at Google
Google's journey toward flexible work arrangements began as part of its broader mission to foster creativity, collaboration, and well-being among its employees. From its inception, Google prioritized a work environment that supported work-life balance, evident in its early policies that allowed for flexible hours and remote work options. However, the real transformation came in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which necessitated a more structured and expansive approach to flexible work.
Pre-Pandemic Flexibility
Before the pandemic, Google already had a reputation for offering perks and benefits designed to make the workplace more accommodating. Employees enjoyed amenities such as on-site fitness centers, free meals, and recreational facilities, which were part of Google's strategy to create a stimulating and comfortable work environment. Flexible hours and the option to work from home on occasion were also part of the company's policy, though the latter was not as widely utilized as it would become later.
The Impact of COVID-19
The global shift to remote work in 2020 forced Google, like many other companies, to rethink its work policies. Initially, Google responded by allowing all employees to work from home to ensure their safety. As the pandemic persisted, it became clear that a temporary measure would need to evolve into a long-term strategy. In 2021, Google announced its new hybrid work model, which allowed employees to split their time between the office and remote locations.
Google's Hybrid Work Model
Google's hybrid work model is characterized by its flexibility and employee-centric approach. The model is based on three main principles: flexibility in location, collaboration, and focus on well-being.
Flexibility in Location
Under the hybrid model, Google employees can choose to work from the office, from home, or from other remote locations. This flexibility is not absolute but is guided by the requirements of specific roles and projects. Google encourages teams to spend at least three days a week in the office to maintain a level of in-person collaboration and innovation. The remaining days can be spent working remotely, allowing employees to balance their professional and personal lives more effectively.
Enhancing Collaboration
Despite the flexibility in location, Google places a strong emphasis on collaboration. The company has invested heavily in technology and infrastructure to support seamless communication and teamwork regardless of where employees are located. Tools such as Google Meet, Google Chat, and other collaborative platforms are integral to the hybrid model. Additionally, Google has redesigned its office spaces to facilitate both formal and informal interactions, recognizing the value of spontaneous idea exchanges that often occur in physical settings.
Focus on Well-being
Google's flexible work arrangements are deeply intertwined with its commitment to employee well-being. The company recognizes that flexibility alone is not sufficient; support systems are essential to help employees thrive in a hybrid work environment. This includes access to mental health resources, wellness programs, and initiatives aimed at reducing burnout. Google's approach is holistic, considering both the physical and psychological aspects of employee well-being.
Benefits of Flexible Work Arrangements
The shift to flexible work arrangements has brought numerous benefits to Google and its employees. These benefits extend beyond mere convenience, impacting productivity, employee satisfaction, and overall company performance.
Increased Productivity
Contrary to the initial skepticism about remote work, many studies, including those conducted by Google, have shown that productivity can actually increase when employees have the flexibility to work from different locations. The autonomy to choose their work environment allows employees to optimize their productivity by working during their peak hours and in settings where they feel most comfortable.
Enhanced Employee Satisfaction
Employee satisfaction at Google has seen a notable increase since the implementation of the hybrid work model. The ability to balance work with personal responsibilities without the rigidity of a traditional office schedule has been a significant factor in improving job satisfaction. This flexibility is particularly valuable for employees with families or those who need to manage other personal commitments.
Broader Talent Pool
Flexible work arrangements have also enabled Google to tap into a broader talent pool. By removing geographical constraints, Google can hire talented individuals from around the world, fostering diversity and inclusion within the company. This global talent strategy not only enriches the company culture but also brings varied perspectives and ideas, driving innovation.
Challenges and Mitigation Strategies
While the benefits of flexible work arrangements are substantial, they are not without challenges. Google has faced several hurdles in implementing its hybrid work model, but proactive measures have been taken to address them.
Maintaining Company Culture
One of the biggest challenges has been maintaining Google’s vibrant company culture in a hybrid environment. Google has tackled this by organizing virtual events, team-building activities, and regular check-ins to keep employees engaged and connected. Additionally, the redesign of physical office spaces to encourage collaboration and community building plays a crucial role in preserving the culture.
Managing Remote Work Fatigue
Remote work can lead to feelings of isolation and burnout if not managed properly. Google has implemented several initiatives to combat remote work fatigue, such as encouraging regular breaks, setting boundaries between work and personal time, and providing access to mental health resources. Managers are also trained to support their teams in navigating the challenges of remote work.
Ensuring Equity and Inclusion
Another challenge is ensuring that all employees, regardless of their work location, have equal access to opportunities and resources. Google has worked to ensure that remote employees are not disadvantaged by offering virtual access to all meetings, training, and development programs. Additionally, performance evaluations are designed to be fair and inclusive, taking into account the different working conditions.
Lessons for Other Organizations
Google's experience with flexible work arrangements offers valuable insights for other organizations looking to implement similar models.
Flexibility is Key
A one-size-fits-all approach does not work when it comes to flexible work arrangements. Organizations should tailor their policies to the specific needs of their employees and the nature of their work. Flexibility in location, hours, and work style can significantly enhance employee satisfaction and productivity.
Invest in Technology and Infrastructure
To support flexible work arrangements, organizations must invest in robust technology and infrastructure. Tools that facilitate communication, collaboration, and project management are essential for maintaining productivity and team cohesion in a hybrid work environment.
Prioritize Employee Well-being
Employee well-being should be at the forefront of any flexible work policy. Providing support for mental health, encouraging work-life balance, and creating a culture of trust and autonomy are crucial for the success of flexible work arrangements.
Continuous Improvement
Finally, organizations should view flexible work policies as a continuous journey rather than a one-time change. Regular feedback from employees, ongoing assessment of the effectiveness of policies, and willingness to adapt are essential for sustaining a successful flexible work environment.
Conclusion
Google's flexible work arrangements represent a forward-thinking approach to modern work culture. By prioritizing flexibility, collaboration, and employee well-being, Google has created a work environment that not only adapts to the changing needs of its workforce but also drives innovation and productivity. As other organizations navigate the future of work, Google's model offers valuable lessons in creating a flexible, inclusive, and supportive workplace.