Been riding on this all spring, just dumped some sealant in start of spring and it holds air on 15+ mile rides, mostly gravel trails. Over 350 miles this spring. Refill with air before every ride. Things have been getting progressively worse, and I’ve been taking shorter rides, in case I need to walk.
I am overwhelmed with the amount of different tires for sale all promising wildly different experiences. 29x 2.3 What do I replace it with if i’m just riding on gravel trails?

16-minute read.

pro-West party leader says they met PM Pashinyan and discussed a referendum to solidify Armenia's shift to EU

KHZMALYAN (European Party of Armenia): The referendum is our suggestion and demand. We presented it to Pashinyan and expect a response within a reasonable timeframe. We advised making a public statement soon. A referendum would also make Pashinyan's job easier by allowing the people's will to decide Armenia's direction.
REPORTER: How did Pashinyan respond?
KHZMALYAN: He suggested the meeting be held in a closed format so I can't reveal all details. We hope that our voice, our offer, our demand, was heard. If we do not receive a positive response, we will take measures by employing the same methods currently used by anti-European forces [the ongoing protests led by pro-Russian ex-regime]. We will take to the streets and demand a referendum for Eurointegration if necessary.
REPORTER: How long are you ready to wait before taking action?
KHZMALYAN: A few months. Georgia will hold parliamentary elections in October, and Moldova will hold a similar Eurointegration referendum - also in October. The U.S. will hold presidential elections in November which will be important for Armenia's future. Even if the worst scenario unfolds in all three countries, Armenia must stand firm and not take a step back. Armenia could become the leader in democracy in all of Eastern Europe if you consider the situation in Georgia, Hungary, and Slovakia [pro-Russia populist leader]. Armenia could receive an unprecedented level of assistance from Europe under those circumstances.
REPORTER: Did Pashinyan say he plans to leave CSTO?
KHZMALYAN: We did not demand specific dates but we urged him to complete all these processes this year, preferably by November.
REPORTER: Did Pashinyan agree?
KHZMALYAN: The participants of the meeting are under the impression that we were able to present convincing arguments but time will show what actions he takes. The government functions very poorly but nevertheless, they are doing something, they are taking steps.
REPORTER: On May 9, Bagrat Galstanyan gave Pashinyan 1 hour to resign but it's May 21 and he is still here. Why wasn't the opposition able to remove him?
KHZMALYAN: The 3 former presidents and their surrogate forces, backed by 30 years of power, were unable to bring forward a figurehead, a single ideology, that could win the hearts of the people. They used various political technologies, they switched between black and white robes, and they extended the 1 hour to 7 days, but none of that helped because the Armenian people hate them more than they hate Nikol Pashinyan.
REPORTER: You used to be a lot harsher on Pashinyan but something appears to have changed in your tone after your recent meeting with him. What is the reason?
KHZMALYAN: We were able to present our demands and the timelines to accomplish them. Unlike the archbishop and the former regimes surrounding him, we did not give "one hour" for Pashinyan to accept our demands; we did not make ultimatums. We believe the current government is carrying out and will carry out the will of the people to overcome the status of a Russian colony and join the ranks of free nations. We did and do see steps [taken by the government] towards this; we cannot ignore this. We saw the Strassbourg, but also Moscow. We saw the [April 5 meeting in] Brussels, but also [the recent meeting between FMs in] Almaty. We are told this is an attempt to "balance" and we understand where they are coming from, but our factions speak on behalf of over 60% of Armenians who view Russia's policies as deadly for Armenia. We expect concrete actions and we have formed a platform to continue this work; there will be petitions and other actions from us. We are ready to assist Pashinyan, who may be constrained due to ongoing negotiations, by being the public voice and saying the things he cannot say. We will continue to work, to pressure, to influence, to demand. Our meetings also continue abroad. We will press on until we reach our goal - the Eurointegration of Armenia. //
Several prominent Western-oriented political parties recently formed an alliance to promote Armenia's Eurointegration.
video,

Pashinyan appoints a ruling party member as a deputy head of the newly formed Foreign Intelligence Service - the Armenian "CIA"

After the 2020 war, Pashinyan said Armenia will need a modern intel agency to gather information and analyze foreign threats, while the NSS -- described as historically a "pro-Russian" agency by many -- will focus on internal matters.
source,

Pashinyan met the deputy head of the United States CIA to discuss bilateral, international, and regional issues

A delegation led by David Cohen is in Yerevan. Cohen also met NatSec Armen Grigoryan.
source, source,

Armenia's Investigative Committee chief hosted U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs

Qyaramyan and Yoder discussed bilateral cooperation, the recent retraining for Armenian agents and technical assistance, cooperation between law enforcement agencies of Armenia and the United States, anti-narcotrafficking, and the fight against gender-based violence.
Yoder also met Armenia's Interior Minister Ghazaryan to discuss the ongoing police reforms and formation of new divisions, the fight against narco-trafficking, technical assistance for rescuers, and retraining courses. Yoder emphasized effective cooperation, noting that the achievements within the framework of sectorial reforms are exceptional. The US wants to expand the agenda of cooperation.
source, source,

Armenian army officers continue to take part in NATO exercises titled Regex 2024 held in Moldova

GOOGLE TRANSLATE: The exercise is organized with the support of the NATO Joint Forces Command in Naples, Italy, and aims to train the military according to Western standards for planning and conducting exercises, crisis management, strengthening and assessing the level of interoperability of forces in a multinational environment.
We remind you that the exercise "Regex 2024" consists of several workshops during the current year. The first workshop took place between February 16 and March 1, and the second between 22 − April 26, 2024. //
source, source,

NATO and Armenia strengthen cooperation in defense education

Armenia's defense ministry representatives recently visited NATO headquarters to discuss NATO’s Defence Education Enhancement Programme (DEEP) for Armenia.
NATO: The DEEP programme is an excellent tool to support Armenian military education system reforms and strengthen the country’s cooperation with NATO.
ARMENIA: With the support of DEEP experts we implemented major changes in all levels of our educational curriculum at Military Academy, starting from cadets up to the most senior levels. It helped us to establish cooperation with many international partner institutions.
source,

Armenia is an emerging destination for UK and global investors: Armenia's Ambassador to London Business Matters

👔 Armenia is committed to building a knowledge-based, export-oriented, and inclusive economy.
👔 Armenia is diversifying its growing economy with pioneering sectors, creating ample investment opportunities.
👔 Armenia’s investment legislation grants equal treatment to foreign investors
👔 There are no restrictions on remittances and repatriation of profits, free exchange of foreign currencies and no limitations on staff recruitment
👔 The country’s favorable business climate and ‘open-door’ policy is also reflected in international reputable rankings where Armenia is ranked one of the highest in the region.
👔 Although Armenia has a relatively modest internal market, it offers different models of economic cooperation and serves as a gateway to major world markets
👔 Armenia has maintained a high level of cooperation with the EU through CEPA
👔 Armenia and UK will soon have a CEPA-like agreement
full article, source,

Turkey modernizes an Azerbaijani Su-25ML jet with guided bombs and Teber missiles

It uses KGK laser guidance for missiles and increases the reach to 110 km.
source,

Pashinyan's Chief of Staff hosted the French Ambassador to discuss defense, economy, infrastructure, and humanitarian topics

... also the upcoming events dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Charles Aznavour.
source,

Parliament Speakers of Armenia and Ukraine discuss the situation in the South Caucasus and Ukraine

source,

Q&A with ruling party MP Vahagn Alexanyan about the ongoing protests led by pro-Russian opposition

REPORTER: You continue to criticize the "holy movement"...
ALEXANYAN: The what now?
REPORTER: ... the "holy movement", by calling it a "pagan" movement. What is the ruling party's stance and do you discuss this internally?
ALEXANYAN: Of course we do, although I don't think Kocharyan's decision to name this movement "holy" is helping them. It's comical.
REPORTER: Do you have proof that Bagrat srbazan is [tied with Kocharyan]?
ALEXANYAN: Bagrat Galstanyan is surrounded by the entire political team of Robert Koharyan, he was a member of Kocharyan's 2022 protests and gave similar speeches he gives today, he received a praise from Russian propagandists, and he was named by a Russian propagandist Aram Gabrielyanov as a potential candidate for a new protest movement just a few months prior to these events, so it's beyond reasonable doubt that Bagrat Galstanyan is part of Kocharyan's team.
REPORTER: You were earlier accusing Galstanyan of being a Russian agent, and now Kocharyan's agent?
ALEXANYAN: Same thing.
REPORTER: The opposition gathered many thousands of supporters on May 9. What does the size of the crowd indicate?
ALEXANYAN: It was similar to Kocharyan's final rally before the 2021 elections. And?
REPORTER: The opposition created a video of "Pashinyan's lies" and broken promises. Will you respond?
ALEXANYAN: The clip itself is a lie and manipulation. For example, one of the supposed lies was Pashinyan's promise of an amnesty for overdue fines and penalties. You are a journalist, you tell me, was there an amnesty or not?
REPORTER: Pashinyan had also said that POWs could wait "just a few more months" and that he wouldn't "sacrifice Armenia's sovereignty" in exchange for bringing them back sooner. Why aren't they back?
ALEXANYAN: Dozens of POWs returned home in December, and efforts continue to bring back the rest. Literally 1-2 days before the POWs' return, the opposition claimed that the POWs were "forgotten" by the government. "Ոչ մի բան չեք անում:"
REPORTER: What about the Nagorno-Karabakh leadership?
ALEXANYAN: There are efforts to return them as well.
REPORTER: Why did the police form a wall to block entry to village Kirants [for nonresidents]?
ALEXANYAN: I think the NSS said they had to take action to prevent interference with the border work. From what I can tell, the protest leader himself went there yesterday and returned only 15 minutes later so there wasn't a big desire to stay there apparently.
REPORTER: They plan to hold a big rally on May 26 where they might nominate Bagrat srbazan as the PM's candidate to replace Pashinyan.
ALEXANYAN: Why not go straight for [alleged narco baron] Mihran Poghosyan [who publicly praised the protests]?
REPORTER: There appears to be a consensus around Bagrat srbazan after a meeting between several forces.
ALEXANYAN: Consensus minus one, where "minus one" is the people. Or to be more precise, "minus two", because the Constitution also prohibits Bagrat from serving as a prime minister. Congratulations on an initiative that's dead on arrival. It's absurd. They suggested replacing the Constitution to allow a dual citizen to serve as PM. Okay... To get Canadian citizenship you have to take an oath to serve the best interests of Canada. To allow dual citizens to serve as PM in Armenia we have to accept for the PM to have loyalty towards another state. The alternative is for the candidate [Bagrat] to admit that his word [oath to Canada] wasn't worth a dime. Երևի մատերը խաչ արած ա երդվել։
REPORTER: But don't you think you are manipulating because Galstanyan received Canadian citizenship just to be able to serve in the church in Canada? He didn't go there to live or conduct business.
ALEXANYAN: It doesn't matter why he went to Canada. He is a citizen of Canada and took an oath. Even religious leaders with dual citizenship cannot become prime ministers. I don't have an issue with him being a dual citizen, but it limits his office options. He still hasn't renounced his Canadian citizenship even after all these talks about a possible nomination.
REPORTER: Galstanyan said he is ready to renounce it as soon as there is a need for it.
ALEXANYAN: In other words, he seeks "guarantees" that he will be the candidate in order to renounce it?
full,source, source,

opposition churchman Bagrat Galstanyan demands the Armenian government compensate the damage done to the church during USSR and "return" the properties "legally belonging" to the church

This was said as a response to the critics of the church leadership who accused the church of turning into a political party and suggested taxing the church like a business.
BAGRAT: We have 19th-century churches that were forcefully confiscated and turned into ruins. The properties of the Armenian church must be returned to the church. The area of Moscow Cinema belongs to the church, half of the Katoghike Church was demolished and belongs to the church, and part of the items in Matenadaran were taken away from the church. Instead of threatening us with taxes, they must think about how they plan to return our properties, fully renovated and ready for service.
source,

the church is actually paying taxes but they do have some exemptions

The church paid $1 million in income taxes last year.
There are tax exemptions to import certain goods deemed for charity. They also don't pay property tax, and taxes on income generated from the sales of ceremonial accessories. The latter two are the frequent targets of church critics.
source,

Armenia's Constitutional Court has a vacant seat. Pro-Russian opposition criticizes Pashinyan's ruling party for favoring a "George Soros-linked" judge who worked for U.S. State Department.

A Serj-era judge is leaving the Constitutional Court after receiving a job offer elsewhere so one seat is vacant. It is the judiciary's turn to nominate a CC judge, so hundreds of judges recently held a meeting and voted for Judge Balayan as their candidate. Balayan's father was a CC judge during Kocharyan's tenure. He was accused in the Wikileaks report of having inappropriate deals with President Kocharyan. Pashinyan's ruling party did not vote to approve Balayan. This led to a second gathering of hundreds of judges where they voted to nominate Judge Khachaturyan as their candidate. The parliament summoned him for Q&A on Tuesday.
SPEAKER: We invite the representative of the judiciary to present their nominee for CC.
JUDICIARY REP: 267 judges voted. Judge Davit Khachaturyan, a member of the Criminal Chamber of the Court of Cassation, won the majority votes.
2000-2005: [blah blah blah]
2003-2006: Legislative Assistance Project Manager at Southern Caucasus Anti-Drug (SCAD) Program, sponsored by European Union and implemented by United Nations Development Program
2006: Program Assistant at U.S. Embassy in Armenia, Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL)
2007-2013: U.S. Embassy in Armenia, U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Legal Specialist
2014: Academy of Justice of the Republic of Armenian-Russian, Vice-Rector and Lecturer
2015-2016: Council of Europe Office in Yerevan, Program “Strengthening Health Care and Human Rights Protection in Prisons in Armenia”, Legal Expert
2016: EU project “Development and Strategic Studies”, Expert on Judiciary and Human Rights field reforms
2015-2017: EU project “ENP Progress Reports and Assessment Reports on Armenia´s Compliance with GSP+ obligations”. Expert on Rule of Law/Justice.
2013–2020: Law Faculty of Yerevan State University. Lecturer. Development and teaching of courses for the Master Program: “European Standards for the human rights protection in criminal proceedings”, and “Professional Skills of a Lawyer”
etc.
OPPOSITION MP: The ruling faction earlier chose not to confirm the appointment of Judge Davit Balayan; they obviously prefer Davit Khachaturyan. Can you explain why you didn't mention that Khachaturyan served on the board of directors and later as the president of the board at George Soros's Armenia-based Open Society Foundations? How will this record impact his work at CC?
JUDICIARY REP: I presented parts of his professional activities available on the court's public platforms. You can ask the candidate directly.
OPPOSITION MP: The Soros Foundation publicly listed him as a member so I don't understand why it's being hidden now. In your opinion, how will his work at the Soros Foundation affect his impartiality?
JUDICIARY REP: The majority of judges chose him and it's up to Parliament whether to confirm or reject.
RULING MP: Was the voting held in a closed session or can you see how each judge voted?
JUDICIARY REP: It's a closed format. My duty here is to present the candidate. [basically, leave me alone I'm just doing my job]
RULING MP: Why not make the court voting and internal discussions more transparent for the public to see so we will have fewer conspiracy theories on why one judge was preferred over the other?
JUDICIARY REP: I share the view that it needs to be as public as possible but the majority of judges voted to keep the session closed to the press.
RULING MP: Just because the discussions and the vote were behind closed doors that doesn't mean it was anti-democratic, but still, it's better to publicize the process. We hope to see a change in this approach.
JUDICIARY REP: The ballot casting will always be secret and I think that's the right approach in order to allow judges to express themselves without constraints, but I agree that the discussions and speeches should be public. Either way whatever we discuss behind closed doors always reaches the press so in practice there isn't really a major transparency issue there.
CANDIDATE KHACHATURYAN: First, every part of my biography has always been public and part of public discussions. Second, I have always voted in favor of making internal discussions open to the press; it's the best way to avoid incorrect assumptions. Full speech here.
OPPOSITION MP: Congratulations. The ruling party intends to approve your candidacy just as they voted for you in the past for other positions. In all of those instances, you didn't mention your work at the Сорос Foundation. Now, a very interesting coincidence [drumroll... are you guys ready for this bombshell?], during the same time while you worked at Сорос foundation, in 2006-2013, you were also a U.S. Embassy employee [got 'em]. //
Nikol Pashinyan has resigned.
Tavush stretches all the way to Russia.
Bagrat srbazan becomes the Supreme Leader of Historical Soil & Water and the Generalissimos of Slow-Melting Candles... and of course removes the speed cameras from highways.
OPPOSITION MP (continues): With this biography, how do we know you are not an agent of foreign influence?
CANDIDATE KHACHATURYAN: I was not an "employee" at the Soros Foundations. Other famous figures have served on the Board [mentions a famous doctor]. Everyone who was part of the Board had duties but it was not really an "employment". As for my simultaneous work with the U.S. Justice Department, there was no conflict with my membership or presidency at the Board because the latter was fully a public activity and we were only given a symbolic sum to compensate for our expenses; we are talking about less than $100/mo. I will let you be the judge regarding an agent of influence. There is a lot that's missing from my biography that read here [lists some boring constitutional research work, etc.].
OPPOSITION MP: You keep being "promoted" by the ruling party without having the chance to finish your terms. The longest job you've ever held was at the Сорос Foundation - 8 years. The brother of the head of the Anti-Corruption Committee, who is about to join the CC, cannot be impartial. Again, what guarantees can you present that you are not a [Western] agent?
CANDIDATE KHACHATURYAN: Your expectation for guarantees stems from the assumption that the [Open Society Foundations] were engaged in activities other than the ones they were actually engaged in. I won't present any "guarantees" because there is no "threat" to begin with. As I've said, that part of my biography has always been discussed publicly and the activities were public and covered by the press.
RULING MP: In your speech you spoke about the judiciary in the U.S. and brought examples. The U.S. doesn't have a Constitutional Court. Don't you think we should also merge the Constitutional and [Cassations Court] with the upcoming referendum to have one Supreme Court with corresponding chambers?
CANDIDATE KHACHATURYAN: I support having one unified body like in the U.S., or clarifying the duties to prevent each body from interfering with the other. Lengthy answer.
OPPOSITION MP: A person [in Kirants] received permission [from USSR] to build a house and live in it. Then the [Armenian] government told him there was a mistake [after the clarification of borders]. Some 50 years after this incident, what would your verdict be in this case?
CANDIDATE KHACHATURYAN: I understand the context. This issue is the task of the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister and we cannot interfere in each other's institutions. I assume there will be a peace agreement eventually that will be sent to the Constitutional Court for examination, therefore I will refrain from making prejudgments now in order to be allowed to take part in future processes.
full video, source, source,

anti-corruption: Armenian authorities conclude that luxury Dubai property belonging to former regime MP's relative was not obtained illegally by him therefore will not be sized as part of an asset forfeiture case

Mher Sedrakyan (Tokhmakhi Mher) is a Serj-era MP whose family is going through an asset forfeiture case worth ֏7.5 billion ($19.3 million) that includes 22 real estate properties, cars, and company shares registered under his name and the names of immediate family members.
Additionally, investigative journalists recently found a luxury property in Dubai registered under the ex-MP's relative. Authorities have concluded that he is not the true ownebeneficiary of this Dubai apartment, therefore it won't be seized.
source,

the army concludes exercises for commanders

Context in May 14 news digest. The defense ministry says they have noted improvements and deficiencies and will take steps to correct them.
source,

Defense Minister Papikyan visited the frontlines and the newly built fortifications: PHOTO

The army continues to dig, asphalt, and build.
source,

Armenia's Foreign Minister met the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency during an international forum

ROSSI: Effective cooperation has been established between Armenia and the IAEA. We discussed several issues on the bilateral agenda, oncology and radiation medicine, safety, and reliable operation of the Armenian NPP.
MIRZOYAN: We plan to extend the lifespan of Metsamor NPP until 2036 while exploring new opportunities.
source,

Armenian lawyers went a strike on Tuesday to protest a bill that would move them from a turnover tax-based system to a VAT-based taxation

Context on the gray economy and why the government wants to gradually abolish the turnover tax system in May 2 news digest.
A group of lawyers said on Tuesday that their 5% turnover tax [for annual turnover under ֏119M] will become 10% this year, and in 2025 they will be required to switch to a 20% VAT/18% profit tax. The cost of legal services for many clients could increase by over 38%, they warned.
The Ombudsman and the Justice Ministry reportedly oppose this bill by the Finance Ministry.
source, source, source, source,

video shows the new payment terminals in Yerevan subway station

They plan to replace all gates next month. The Soviet-era tokens (zheton) are being replaced with QR codes, an app, and later - bank cards.
All stations will have payment terminals to purchase QR tickets. It prints out a paper with QR. Telcell's app lets you buy a ticket and instantly get a QR on the phone's screen.
Seniors who can't use "high-tech" can approach the token sellers and get a QR paper instead of a token.
video,

Yerevan will host an exhibition on Charles Aznavour’s 100th anniversary

Hundreds of rare artifacts will present the life and legacy of the legendary artist.
Location: National Museum-Institute of Architecture
Date: May 22-July 22
source,

Germany wants to purchase an Armenian man

Dortmund Borussia is interested in the services of Armenian national Edward Spertsyan as a replacement for departing Marco Reus.
During this season, midfielder Spertsyan has played 32 matches, scored 11 goals, and made 7 assists. His ass is worth €18 million.
source,

Got carried away and ordered an ARC CDG a couple weeks ago. Just purchased an Aero 17" chassis in OD green today with the memorial day sale plus the 15% email singup discount.
Had been looking at barrels since purchasing the CDG and thinking about a 22-23" barrel for 6.5cm .160" chamber. I am not sure what profile I should be using. I was leaning toward an .8 Varmint or a .9 Taperless. I would also be threading the barrel as well.
Reached out to Preferred for some more info and recieved back "Medium to heavy weight contour options (4-5 lbs, in order of lightest to heaviest): medium palma, rem sendero, taperless 900 (4.1lbs), 4 sporter, heavy palma, 800 varmint (5.0 lbs)"
Gun will be for plinking. Shooting 200-700yards. I do not currently do any long range comprising or clubs.

There have been a couple of posts and comments recently regarding what does or doesn't have 'SPIRIT' or can or can't be classed as 'ANIMIST'
Position: My Animist Perspective: Everything Has Spirit
Scenario: As animists, we want to eat the meat of some type of antlered deer in a ceremony and also use the antlers for various purposes (personal ornaments, decorations, tools, etc).
For this to occur, a farmer or a Hunter is needed. The items that are needed to humanely cull and process an ungulate deer.
The farmer or hunter cull a stag to harvest both meat and antlers.
The hunter uses a firearm and ammunition and the farmer may use the same or an electric/hydraulic bolt or perhaps even a steel knife to dispatch the animal humanely. The ammunition for the rifle contains, lead, brass, composite alloys, chrome, gunpowder (chemicals), and electricity.
The rifle is made from various types of metal, metal alloys, hardwoods farmed and exotic, plastics, fibreglass, rubber, glues, chemicals, glass if a scope is attached, lasers, batteries, electricity, etc.
The steel bolt is made from metal, metal alloys, plastic, composite rubbers, chemicals, and electricity. The knife is made from metal, metal alloys, hardwoods farmed and exotic, plastics, fibreglass, rubber, glues, chemicals, electricity, and if kept in a sheath leather, nylon chemical plastics.
Also, don't forget everything associated with the refrigeration of the meat. The packaging for everything. The electronic and paper products are used for advertising. The manufacturing distribution and administration buildings. The transportation vehicles include all the metal, plastic, rubber, oil, chemicals, electricity, etc. The people involved - their housing, food, clothing, medications, etc.
The infrastructure for producing all of the power necessary for the above - electricity, hydro, coal, uranium, geothermal, solar, tidal.
etc, etc, etc.
My Animist Perspective: Everything Has Spirit
From an animist viewpoint, the belief that all entities—animate and inanimate—possess a spiritual essence is central. This perspective imbues every element of the scenario described with a sense of interconnected spirituality. Here, I present a detailed and compelling positive argument that everything involved in the process of culling and utilising an antlered deer for ceremonial purposes belongs to the realm of animism.
The Deer and Its Spirit
In animism, the deer is not merely an animal but a being with a spirit. The stag embodies strength, grace, and the cyclical nature of life. The meat and antlers are gifts from the deer's spirit, offered in a ceremonial context to Honor its life and essence. The act of culling the deer, therefore, is not just a hunt but a sacred exchange, acknowledging the deer's spirit and its contribution to human sustenance and culture.
The Hunter and the Farmer
The hunter and the farmer, as facilitators of this process, are seen as mediators between the human community and the spiritual world of the deer. Their skills, tools, and knowledge are not just practical assets but are imbued with their own spirits. The hunter's connection to the deer through the hunt is a deeply spiritual bond, one that respects the life of the deer and acknowledges its spirit.
The Tools of the Hunt
* Firearm and Ammunition: Each component of the firearm and ammunition—the metals, wood, plastics, and chemicals—has its own spirit. The metal alloys are born from the earth, the hardwoods from the forests, and the chemicals from complex natural processes. The firearm, as a composite entity, carries the spirits of all its parts, combined into a tool that serves a sacred purpose.
* Steel Bolt and Knife: Similarly, steel bolts and knives are more than mere tools. The metals used in their creation have been shaped and transformed, their spirits forged to create instruments of humane dispatch. The wood, rubber, and other materials each bring their own spiritual essence to these tools, making them part of the ceremonial act.
The Process and the Ritual
The act of culling the deer is a ritualistic one, steeped in respect and spiritual significance. The hunter's or farmer's actions are guided by a profound understanding of the balance between taking life and honouring it. This process is a form of communication with the spirits of the tools, the deer, and the natural world.
The Role of Technology and Infrastructure
Even the technology and infrastructure involved in processing, preserving, and transporting the meat and antlers are seen through an animistic lens:
* Refrigeration and Packaging: The machinery and materials used in refrigeration and packaging are composites of various natural elements. The metals, plastics, chemicals, and electricity all carry the spirits of their origins. These spirits contribute to the preservation of the deer's gifts, ensuring they remain viable for ceremonial use.
* Transportation and Buildings: The vehicles, buildings, and infrastructure involved in the distribution process are also imbued with spirit. The metals and plastics in vehicles, the materials in buildings, and the energy sources (electricity, coal, uranium, etc.) all possess spiritual essences derived from the natural world. The interconnectedness of these elements ensures the respectful and efficient handling of the deer's gifts.
The Human Element
The people involved in this process—the hunter, farmer, workers, and consumers—each carry their own spirits. Their interactions with the deer, the tools, and the infrastructure are part of a larger spiritual network. Their homes, food, clothing, and medications are also seen as having spirits, derived from the earth and other natural sources.
Energy Sources and the Natural World
Finally, the sources of power—electricity, hydro, coal, uranium, geothermal, solar, and tidal—are manifestations of the earth's spirit. Each energy source, whether harnessed from water, wind, sun, or the depths of the earth, contributes its spiritual essence to the process. This interconnected web of spiritual energy sustains the entire chain of activities.
Conclusion
From my animist perspective, every element involved in the culling and utilisation of an antlered deer is imbued with spirit. This worldview sees the interconnectedness of all things, recognising the spiritual essence in the deer, the tools, the technology, the infrastructure, and the people. Each component plays a sacred role in the ritual, contributing to a holistic understanding of life, death, and the spiritual continuum. This deep respect for the spirits of all entities fosters a harmonious relationship with the natural world, emphasising the reverence and interconnectedness that are central to animism.
References

1. Bird-David, Nurit. "Animism Revisited: Personhood, Environment, and Relational Epistemology." *Annual Review of Anthropology* 21 (2023): 67-91.
2. Harvey, Graham. *Animism: Respecting the Living World*. London: Hurst & Company, 2017.
3. Van Eyghen, Hans. "Animism and Science." *Religions* 14, no. 5 (2023): 653. https://doi.org/10.3390/rel14050653.
4. Astor-Aguilera, Miguel. "Animism and Materiality: Relational Ontologies and Practices." *Religious Studies Review* 44, no. 2 (2018): 139-147.
5. High, Casey. "Waorani Perspectives on Animal Spirits and the Agency of Shamans." *Journal of Anthropological Research* 73, no. 1 (2017): 129-147.
6. Fienup-Riordan, Ann, and Alice Rearden. *Yuungnaqpiallerput: The Real Person of the Ancestors: An Ethnohistory of the Cup'ik Eskimos of Nelson Island, Alaska*. Fairbanks: University of Alaska Press, 2016.
7. Skvirskaja, Vera. "The Sacred Space of the Nenets Tundra: Rituals and Practices." *Journal of Siberian Studies* 15, no. 3 (2022): 147-159.
8. Chidester, David. "Animism and Religion: Material Dynamics." *Religion* 48, no. 1 (2018): 85-97.
9. Tylor, Edward Burnett. *Primitive Culture*. New York: Harper & Row, 1871.
10. Hallowell, A. Irving. "Ojibwa Ontology, Behavior, and Worldview." In *Readings in Indigenous Religions*, edited by Graham Harvey, 17-49. London: Continuum, 2002.

These references provide a comprehensive academic basis for understanding animism in the context of both traditional and contemporary practices, emphasising the interconnectedness and spiritual significance of all elements involved in the described scenario.

Adults-only, all-inclusive Haven Riviera Cancun – 45% off

Posted on May 22, 2024 by Andrew Larder

Adults-only, all-inclusive Haven Riviera Cancun – 45% off

An oceanfront sanctuary where anything is possible
Discover the adults-only, all-inclusive Haven Riviera Cancun this summer or fall.
Save up to 45% off during the tranquility sale.
Travel Window Now – 12/15/24
Booking Window Now – 05/31/24
Book you next tropical escape by 5/31/24 so you can start dreaming of beachfront relaxation.
___________________
Haven Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa Current Offer: Discover the serenity of Haven Riviera Cancun with savings up to 45%
An oceanfront sanctuary of luxury and sophistication awaits you at Haven Riviera Cancun, an adults-only, all-inclusive resort located between Cancun and Riviera Maya. Escape to an exclusive realm of style, glamour and seclusion, where you will feel as if a tiny sliver of Mexico coastline has been reserved just for you. With a vibrant spectrum of restaurants ranging from global fine dining experiences with mesmerizing ocean views to a toes-in-the-sand Beach Stand, their culinary delights have something for every palate. Relax and replenish with a transcendent spa experience featuring avant-garde treatments and traditional techniques steeped in ancient Mayan philosophy. Anything is possible at your personal sanctuary in the Mexican Caribbean, including:
15 min from Cancun International Airport Adults only 18+ 435 Junior Suites & Suites: 224 units are part of Serenity Club Exclusive Serenity Club check-in area and lounge 24-hrs all-inclusive dining including room service Six gourmet restaurants plus one Marketplace buffet three snack bars Restaurants: 6 A La Carte + Buffet: Olios, Tahani, Satsu, Agua Bendito, Vora Mar, Vistas (all a la carte) and The Marketplace & 2 snack bars Bars: 8 bars + 3 swim-up: We have Limes, Docks, Haven Lounge, Serenity Lounge, Moet & Chandon corner, Moons Cabaret, 3 swim-up bars Beach & Pool bar wait service including to swim-up suites Coffee Shop with snacks and gelato 4 oceanfront pools & 1 oversized Whirlpool including 1 exclusive pool for Serenity Club Full service Spa & guided Temazcal experience Spa Hospitality Suite Bridal Suite Turn down service including pillow and aromatherapy menus Daily yoga classes, weekly macrame classes, jogging trails and basketball/tennis court Spirits tasting and cooking classes Indoor and outdoor meeting and dining options available – new convention center Complimentary WIFI throughout the property Green fees complimentary for all guests Serenity Club guests also get a golf cart for their round (one cart per 3-nt stay, two carts per 4-7 nt .stay, three for 8+ nts stay), private concierge throughout their stay, a 30-minute hydrotherapy or sauna/steam circuit sessions at MySenses Spa** and many private lounge, two private restaurants and private gym ** 1 session per person for guests who stay 4 nights or less. Two sessions per person for guests who stay 5 nights or more.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Tours operated by Apple Vacations. Information is accurate at time of publication and is subject to changes, exceptions, cancellation charges and restrictions. Not responsible for errors or omissions in the publication of this information. Valid for new bookings only. Bookings are subject to the current Apple Vacations terms and conditions. Apple Vacations materials (including, but not limited to, names, trademark, service marks, logos, marketing materials, etc.) shall not be used, reproduced, transmitted or distributed in any way, except with the express written consent of Apple Vacations. CST# 2139014-20.

Haven Riviera Cancun Reservations

Contact me to book a stay close at Haven Riviera Cancun:
Andrew Larder, FORA Travel Advisor

Help Spread The Word!

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• More

Customize buttons

Like this:

Related

Kids Stay Free At These Resorts In Mexico, Caribbean

April 10, 2024
In "Travel"

All-Inclusive Hard Rock Hotels – Save Up To 50%

May 20, 2024
In "Travel"

Rosewood Mayakoba Promotion (Riviera Maya, Mexico)

March 27, 2024
In "Travel"
TravelHaven Riviera Cancun, Haven Riviera Cancun 45% off, Haven Riviera Cancun Booking, Haven Riviera Cancun Deal, Haven Riviera Cancun Discount, Haven Riviera Cancun reservations, Haven Riviera Cancun SavingsAdults-only, all-inclusive Haven Riviera Cancun – 45% off

Hi! I’m putting my entire manga collection up for sale. I’ve fallen onto hard times and sadly need to part with as much as I can to pay off various medical bills. The books range in G5-G4 condition including a several ex-library. Will provide additional pictures and details upon request! I’d be more than happy to bundle, with the exception of separating the completed sets, as I would like to sell those whole.
Selling out of (Brooklyn) NYC if local drop off/pickup is preferred over shipping.
https://imgur.com/gallery/fJ0NLv6
Listed below are the available sets, partial/incomplete sets, and single volumes. Pricing is negotiable. I’m inexperienced with direct selling since I primarily sell through PoshM, so please be patient as I navigate here. <3
Full Sets:
Death Note Box Set: $70
Nabari No Ou 1-14 Set: $800 (I know that it’s horrendously priced, but a set near me just sold for $1200 so I’m reaching for the stars)
Partial/Incomplete Sets:
Assassination Classroom - Vol. 2-6 : $25
Ajin Demi-Human - Vol. 1-7 : $35
Until Death Do Us Part - Vol. 2,3,5,6,7,9 : Varying Condition, est. $7-$12 each
Noragami Stray God - Vol. 1-2 : $12
Tiger & Bunny - Vol. 1-2 : $12
Singles:
Attack on Titan - Vol. 1 : $5
Blue Exorcist- Vol. 1 : $6
Death Note Novel, L: Change the World : $11
Fruits Basket - Vol. 15 : $7
Fullmetal Alchemist 3-in-1 - Vol. 1-2-3 : $10
One Punch Man - Vol. 1 : $6
Bleach (merits its own category):
Official Bootleg Color Bleach+
Official Character Books 1 and 2
Volumes 1-48 , 16 books (3-in-1’s)
Volumes 23,34, 47-67 (individuals)

[this does not constitute any investment advice, just purely my own opinion]
just like an on-going war, there will be days where it gets easier, and there will be days where it is the toughest. the toughest days of these battle was on 14 may 2024 to 17 may 2024.

• 14 may: volume 1.57B, 10.31% short sale ratio
• 15 may: volume 1.35B, 11.34% short sale ratio
• 16 may: volume: 1.14B, 13.19% short sale ratio
• 17 may: volume: 1.31B, 14.76% short sale ratio
• 18 may: volume: 701.67M, 8.35% short sale ratio

notice how the short ratio kept increasing, and until 17 may, it was at the highest. that was also the day where the price went to a high of almost $4, then down to $1.
logically and technically speaking, if this war has to fail, it already would have on Friday after-market hours. Prices would have just wane off, leaving the late buyers high and dry, losing their money. And this whole episode will just go down into history quietly without anybody mentioning about it again because it is embarassing.
However, prices short up after-market hours. this tells me there are renewed interest in the stocks. whatever share that is being sold, could have been bought up by a new buyer. hopefully a wise one, because a new and wise buyer would have strong holding power.
The price attempted to sell off again on monday. But to no avail, as soon as it reach the low of $1.20, it got scooped up quickly. Again, this indicate buying sentiment at low prices still exist. Otherwise, the price would have crash through.
Right now, Tuesday, there is a strong support at the $1.20 - $1.25 range. After 4 days of selling by shorties, the Short Interest has increased from 95.xx% to 96.78%. That means a new increase. This would mean that the short squeeze, if it does materialise eventually, is getting nearer and easier. Because with increased short interest, it'll mean that there are less float. With less float, less capital is required to buy them all up and stash them into your war chest and hold. When finally there is no more float around, it is here where it starts cracking. Prices gets bidded up very very quickly due to the limited supply.
Imagine this, you went to the market and bought onions from every stall. now, you own all the onions and nobody else has it. since now u've all the onions, you can dictate the price you want to sell at, and watch the uncles aunties cry when they buy the onion from you at sky high price. T_T
Also, data do not lie. my data from my broker consistently shows that, at the end of each trading session the S and M trade size are showing net outflow consistently over the past few days. There is only 1 group, the XL trade size that is consistently showing net inflow. that is the group that is giving me the confidence to hold.
From technical pattern perspective, there is a strong support zone at $1.20 - $1.25 range. Selling truimphs for monday and tuesday, but has weaken. as you can see, the slope sliding down is less steep. This is accompanied by the data where short sale ratio decreasing, and short interest increasing. Also in the daily chart, we've formed a ascending flag, and we are reaching the tip-end of a triangular flag. On Wed or Thu, I would be expecting a sharp breakout on either side.

Howdy KS? Hope everything is ramping up for Memorial Day this weekend. Got some goodies up for your consideration today. As always price includes shipping inside the US only. Please no trades! Payment methods are preferably Zelle, cash app or Apple Pay. But I can take PP or Venmo if absolutely necessary.
2 KNIFE MINIMUM!!!
Timestamp & Goodz
https://imgur.com/a/OgQzDRE

• Demko AD 20.5 in clip point D2, second owner bought off here and must say the knife is surprisingly smoother than all it other 20.5s. Very solid 8/10 condition with zero issues to note of. Comes with box & docs. SV $60
  
• Cold steel Air lites 1 tanto & 1 drop point, both are NIB in aus10A. SV $30 each.
  
• Boker Kalashnikov drop point in D2, once again NIB I bought this off blade HQ and has never seen any pocket time because of my Boker strike auto. SV $25
  
• CJRB pyrite in titanium scales w/stainless liners & AR-RMP9 steel, NIB bought a few of these when on sale at CKW. Fun little fidget knife for sure! SV $40
  
• CJRB WMK exclusive mini pyrite in fragged aluminum scales in AR-RMP9 steel. NIB SV $32
  
• Civivi baby banter in Nitro-V & canvas micarta, carried maybe 3 times but never used & no box. SV $35
  
• CJRB mini pyrite w/smooth aluminum scales, again carried a few times but never used no box. SV $25
  
• Ontario rat model 2 Aus8 steel, NIB SV $15
  

I hope this letter finds you well. To begin, I was drawn to this topic through social media posts that shared dozens of records detailing the abuse and deaths of hundreds of children in these therapy programs. I have often wondered, how can these programs be allowed to cause this amount of trauma to teens and children? This inspired me to look deeper into the troubled teen industry and understand why paid “caregivers” have put so many in danger. If we want to protect the wellbeing of these teens, we must find a solution to regulating these industries. Without increased laws and regulations we continue to place America’s children into potential death traps. Now what is a wilderness therapy program? Wilderness therapy programs, on the surface, seem like a promising solution for troubled teens, offering a blend of nature immersion and psychiatric support. However, the roots of the troubled teen industry date back to the 1970s, with reports of abuse surfacing early on. Shockingly, despite decades of outcry and documentation of fatalities, political inertia persists, and federal oversight remains lacking. It is understandable that parents want their children to be happy, respectful, and well-mannered. However, in an attempt to do what is right for their struggling child, parents may turn to the troubled teen industry. Currently, according to the American Bar Association, there are thousands of teenagers in these programs within the U.S, programs that often induce trauma and abuse, even causing the deaths of their children. So, why do parents continue to put their children into these programs? Is the fear of losing the “perfect” family leading parents to enrolling their children into these troubled teens’ wilderness programs? So why do parents enroll their children in these awful facilities? Simple answer: manipulation. The troubled teen industry (TTI) often manipulates parents through a series of insidious tactics. For instance, leveraging fear by exaggerating the risks associated with a child's behavior and creating a sense of imminent danger. Isolation tactics further reinforce this urgency, convincing parents that the facility is their sole recourse. These industries hire workers framed as “education consultants” that utilize high-pressure sales strategies to exploit parental anxiety, and present their TTI program as the only viable option. In an article by USAtoday, reporters held interviews of parents and teens who experienced a TTI program at Evoke, a Utah facility. "I was just an anxious mom. I loved (Katelyn) to death," Tessie, Katelyn’s mom, says, "I was so desperate and desperately wanting to save my child from herself" (USAtoday). Programs offer promises of rapid transformation and they prey on parental desperation for quick, easy fixes. Emotional manipulation adds another layer, playing on a parents guilt and insecurity. By showcasing selective success stories and controlling information flow, they obscure potential risks and alternatives. Stigmatizing the child's behavior further pressures parents into compliance, painting their facility as the sole refuge from societal judgment. "’[Evoke] just made it seem like (she was) such a rotten kid and that she couldn't come home after the wilderness program,’ Tessie says, instead [Evoke suggested] Katelyn go to an aftercare program” (USAtoday). In this web of manipulation, parents often find themselves coerced into decisions they later regret, unaware of the nuanced realities obscured by these tactics. In an article from the “Cafemoms” blog titled My Daughter Was a Victim of the 'Troubled Teen' Industry & It Haunts Me to This Day, a mother recounts her perspective of the tactics used by Island View (IV) treatment center to send her sixteen year old daughter to their facilities. “We trusted the [education consultant] when he said IV was the best program in the country and the best fit for Colleen. What the [education consultant] didn’t tell us was that the reason so many IV grads did so well after graduation is because nearly all of them went straight from IV to another residential treatment”(Cafemoms). Despite this, there is still hope for change. Imprint News wrote an article that focused on recent protests and youth advocates who were pushing congress to introduce new laws. Specifically, they discussed the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act. A main advocacy group aiming at these lawmakers is Breaking Code Silence, a group dedicated to advocating for young people who had experienced harm in a youth treatment center (Imprint News). Their main goal is to pass a Bill of Rights for all children in youth treatment centers (Imprint News). The article also mentions that Breaking Code Silence wants children to have guaranteed protection from physical restraint and monitored phone calls. They further require that children are provided with all the basic necessities (Imprint News). Paris Hilton, a well-known celebrity, discussed in a Washington post article when she was 16 years old when she was taken from her home by two men. This was a result of her parents signing her up for a teen wilderness program (Hilton). Hilton describes that she was beaten and malnourished throughout her time at a Utah Facility. In October 2021, she partnered with Breaking Code Silence and pushed for a reform that was signed into law last April (Hilton). In Utah, it is now mandatory for treatment centers to document any time that staff used physical restraint (Hilton). Immediately following they have to submit these reports to the Utah Office of Licensing (Hilton). It also prohibits programs from sedating residents or using mechanical restraints, such as handcuffs and chains (Hilton). Therefore, this proves that reforms can be implemented and that it is important to continue the fight for more. Without regulations these programs can run rampant and place hundreds of children in danger. Continuing to protest, collaborate with government officials, and raise awareness can, and will, eventually stop the persistence of these programs. Enforcing reports and proper care through the law is the only way to give teens struggling with mental illnesses in these programs a fighting chance to recover. On the other hand, supporters of the troubled teen industry have used studies and research to prove the effectiveness of these programs, one example being RedCliff Ascent. RedCliff Ascent is a wilderness therapy program that claims the effectiveness of wilderness therapy. In 2005, this company hired a researcher to study families and adolescents 2 years after the program. The results found that over 90% of adolescents found wilderness therapy as effective and 83% of adolescents were doing better. In another study by Dr. Steve Aldana, it was found that 91.4% of children experienced clinically significant improvement six months post program. The counter argument presented by RedCliff Ascent is not only biased as the research was initiated from a wilderness therapy company, but they do not provide a sample size. This is important because when making conclusive statements such as “Over 90% of adolescents contacted perceived wilderness therapy as effective” they could be talking about six out of seven children or two hundred out of two hundred twenty (RedCliff Ascent). Through further research, the same results can be presented without the use of wilderness therapy. An article by the American Psychology Association (APA) titled “Better options for troubled teens” presents a series of studies and programs that was created to help adolescents. These programs focus on community-based activities, activities to help connect teenagers with their parents, and activities that align with the teens interests. This includes computer labs, dance studios, and machine shops. These programs have found significant success in decreasing the amount of juvenile offenders from 50% to 4% in an area of Connecticut (APA). It did this by helping teens take accountability and understand their actions. It utilized role play, writing assignments, and guided discussions between the teens. Overall, the troubled teen industry has caused abuse, trauma, and death to many children across the United States. It is a trap for children and a trick for desperate parents. Through the personal stories from teens and parents, reports of mistreatment, and protests it can easily be seen the impact and the importance of preventing this industry from expanding, instead increasing regulations and transparency to protect America’s children. To keep these children safe it is imperative that everyone works together to enact legislation. Your support matters to keep America’s children protected.
Sincerely, A high school student trying to make positive change
Works Cited Brennan, Caleb, et al. “Youth Advocates Again Push Congress to Crack Down on ‘Troubled Teen’ Industry.” The Imprint, 19 Aug. 2022, Date Accessed Mar. 2 imprintnews.org/top-stories/youth-advocates-congress-troubled-teen-industry/67243.
DeAngelis, Tori. “Better Options for Troubled Teens.” https://www.apa.org, www.apa.org/monito2011/12/troubled-teens. Accessed Feb. 19
Hilton, Paris. “America’s ‘Troubled Teen Industry’ Needs Reform so Kids Can Avoid the Abuse I Endured.” Washington Post, 22 Oct. 2021, Date Accessed Feb. 5 www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2021/10/18/paris-hilton-child-care-facilities-a Buse-reform.
Krebs, Catherine E. Five Facts About the Troubled Teen Industry. 22 Oct. 2021 Date Accessed Apr. 23 www.americanbar.org/groups/litigation/resources/newsletters/childrens-rights/five-facts-about-troubled-teen-industry.
Moniuszko, Sara M. “Wilderness therapy was supposed to help these ‘troubled teens.’ It traumatized them instead.” UsaToday, 8 Dec. 2022, Date Accessed Apr. 15 www.usatoday.com/in-depth/life/health-wellness/2022/12/08/wilderness-therapy-troubled-teen-industry/9890694002.
Parenting, baby names, celebrities, and royal news CafeMom.com. 14 Oct. 2022, Date Accessed Apr. 19 https://cafemom.com/parenting/troubled-teen-industry-island-view
RedCliff Ascent. “Does Wilderness Therapy Work?” Wilderness Therapy for Teens Needing Mental Health Treatment RedCliff Ascent, 10 Jan. 2023, Date Acessed Feb. 21 www.redcliffascent.com/wilderness-therapy-program/does-wilderness-therapy-work

So I just wrapped up interviews and got offer and they briefly discussed payplans, just waiting for drug and background to come back.
This is a smaller dealership in Northern California, sells about 130 cars a month (Hyundai)
Guranteed wage: $15.50/hr Flats: 0-7 nothing 8-12 $300 13-17 $325 18-22 $350 23+ $375 i think
Profits: 1% of back end
I was wondering since i will be working 50-60 hours and probably weekends, are those compensated? Pretty sure Exempt from overtime pay but just checking if they are paid hourly still, excited to start and just wondering how this is for a first timer newbie.
This is a hyundai dealer with about 6 sales guys
Any tips are appreciated I am nervous but excited, and want to become a top seller and i know itll be tough but let me know what to expect and any secrets that might help!

I live in an apartment. Over the years I moved to led bulbs that can be controlled by my Alexa. I have always used Feit since they were the ones at Costco all the time. But the ones in the over head fixtures always seem to lose their internet connection and start blinking randomly.
I got two Phillips Hue white bulbs for 15 each. They work great and seem to be way better at connecting. But they are kind of soft white bulb. I guess there is three kind of Hue bulbs. Soft white or ambiance, white, and white and color. I think I got the first version. I see the other packs with color and white are like 88 on sale. I am unsure if I want to spend that much yet.
I also see my local walmart has Phillips bulbs that do the same they are just not HUE. They are "Philips Smart Wi-Fi Connected LED 60-Watt A19 Light Bulb, Frosted Color & Tunable White, Dimmable, E26 Medium Base (2-Pack)"
Would those walmart bulbs be the same thing, just not the HUE ones? I just need them to keep online and from what I read the internet chip in them are better then Feit. Is WIZ internet controllers in the cheap phillips bulbs the same as in the HUE bulbs?
Also as I said I have two of the soft white hue bulbs in already. Would a HUE Bridge do anything to help with options on the ones I already have? I just have them on the HUE app and the Alexa app for control.
And in the alexa app I have them in a group named "Hallway" and after I used my alexa to shut off Hallway... at 3am my phone said Hallway was down to 33% battery left? Just not sure where a battery comes into play here.

The stress of the last six months has nearly killed me. Besides the general cratering of the outside world—political strife, climate change, inflated rents, corporate greed, and the baffling resurgence of crew socks—my internal life was falling apart, too. I'm at the point where I can't see a way out of the darkness, and that feeling has only grown in the last few days.
My struggles ramped up exponentially in the last two weeks. It started when my long-term girlfriend and I called it quits after five years. There was no definitive relationship-altering fight or infidelity. It was simply the boring banality of the "roommate-ification" of our lives together. We both felt the shift but never talked about it. Turns out communication is important.
Truthfully, we'd stayed together for so long because we couldn't afford to live apart. Our rent had nearly doubled the last time we re-upped our lease but even that was a bargain compared to what was out there currently. We were trapped by our need to have a roof over our heads.
My job had stagnated, and I couldn't find anything better. I was stuck. Like me, she'd been job hunting as well. Unlike me, she had a master's, and her prospects should've been higher. They weren't. For five months, she applied to hundreds of jobs and couldn't break through. If she got a rejection email, it was a win. Most of the time, the companies never responded.
Finally, she found a great opportunity at a Fortune 500 company. It was an involved process. She nailed the five interviews, and her "test project" was well received. She was offered the position, and it came with a massive pay increase—double her current salary. I was proud of her—she needed a win. We celebrated with pizza and beer that night.
Two days later, she dropped the bomb that she was breaking things off. The relationship ending wasn't a surprise. The timing was. The discussion was brief, and there was zero chance of reconciliation. She declined when I asked if she could stay until the lease ended. Mentally, it would've been too much for her. Two days after that, she moved out, taking half the rent with her. I was stuck in a lease I couldn't afford on my salary for the next six months.
My free time evaporated as I took on two extra gigs to help make ends meet. In addition to my office nine to five, I drove for a delivery app on the weekends and took a part-time night job stocking shelves at a local grocery store. When I wasn't hustling for housing, I slept or ate. I did nothing beyond that. Nothing brings me joy. There is no spark.
This drudgery has become my daily routine, and it's killing me.
To help cover some cost gaps, I've started selling off some of my stuff online. It was just me here, and I decided that the Spartan lifestyle would have to work for now. Anything I could fetch a decent amount for went up for sale. My apartment is so empty now every noise causes an echo.
Before my shift at the grocery store, I agreed to meet someone who wanted to take a look at my kitchen table. It was a lovely table – my ex had obsessed over it – but I didn't see a need at the moment. Now that I was a bachelor, my TV trays became my default kitchen tables anyway. I wasn't planning on any dinner parties in the future anyway.
A couple showed up later than they said they would. It was a bored-looking guy and a fastidious young woman. She made friendly small talk as she looked over the table. Her boyfriend (I think) stayed quiet and played bodyguard. I gave him a friendly nod at one point, and he just looked away. She said they'd take it without trying to talk me down. I took the small win.
She asked if I could help carry it down to their truck. I was running late, but feeling helpful, even for a fleeting few seconds, was worth it. Her silent boyfriend and I hauled the table through the hallway and even managed to avoid hitting the walls the entire way down.
I placed it in their truck, got my money, and turned to leave. The girl said thanks, and the boyfriend finally returned the nod. I gave a weird half-wave to them both and started to walk away when I heard the passenger window being rolled down.
"Hey man," the boyfriend said, his voice higher pitched than I thought it would. "What was up with your brother giving us the evil eye in the lobby when we got here?"
I turned around, "Huh? I don't have a brother."
"A cousin then?"
"My family lives about a thousand miles away. What happened in the lobby?"
"A dude that looked just like you was hiding in a dark hallway in the lobby and staring at my girl's ass."
"Jacob, really," she said.
"I'm sorry that happened, but I had nothing to do with it. We do have the occasional homeless guy meander in. Maybe you saw one of them," I said. "Did he say or do anything bad?"
"Jacob, I asked you to not say something," the girl said, burying her head in her hands.
Jacob's frosty attitude to me made sense now. "He said something about running up that ass. I dunno, he was mumbling. I told him I'd beat his ass if he didn't stop staring. Seemed to shut him up."
"Oh. Well, congrats," I said. "I'll tell the manager. Thanks for letting me know."
"You should do a better job keeping jokers like that out of the building."
"Jacob, he's not a security guard."
"He should still be a man and protect his home."
"Have a good night," I said, ending the conversation and heading back up to my apartment. I had about five minutes to change and head out before I'd be late. Last thing my ego needed was to be fired from my backup job.
Thankfully, I was able to slip into work and not get spotted by my boss. That was the last of the good news, though. We had a massive weekly order come in, which meant I'd be there late, plus someone had called out. Worse, our hand truck had a flat tire, and I spent the next few hours torturing my muscles, schlepping heavy boxes around the store. I soldiered on, counting down the minutes until I left and fantasizing about going to bed for the night.
If wishing for sleep wasn't a sad statement to my mental well-being, nothing was.
I came home after my shift at the grocery store and plopped down on the couch. I had contemplated selling it, but it was an older Ikea number, and I didn't think the value would replace my desire to sit. I could feel my body sink into the cushions, and the day's tension seep out. I was beat and tired to the point that turning on the TV was a chore.
I picked up my phone and thought I'd doomscroll until sleep overtook me. I didn't expect it to be a long scroll, as even the methadone that is my phone has failed me lately. As I lowered myself from a slumped position to a supine one, I heard footsteps outside my apartment door. This was not unusual, but the noise I heard sounded like kid footsteps. That was unusual, as nobody on our floor had kids, and it was almost midnight.
Despite my body screaming at me to not move, my brain suggested I check it out. I rolled myself off the couch and eventually stood up. I listened again and heard the kid running down the hallway. I walked over to my door and looked out the peephole. I didn't see anyone.
"Maybe I'm dreaming," I said to myself. "Maybe I'm not staring out a peephole, expecting to see a kid running down the hall at midnight, but instead, I'm cuddled up in my bed, snoozing." I pinched my arm and felt the pain. I was definitely in the waking world.
I turned to head back to the couch when I heard the running again, this time louder. I opened my door and peeked out into the hallway. Nobody was there. The door from the apartment across me opened up, too. Gloria, a young at heart grandma who was friendly/constantly buzzed in a wine mom kind of way, gave me a once over.
"You heard that, too?" she asked.
"Kids?"
"No rugrats around. I assumed it was some drunk assholes stumbling home from the bar."
I laughed. Gloria was, as always, blunt. "I didn't see any assholes," I said.
"Then you're not watching the right kind of internet videos," she said with a wink and a hoarse cackle.
I blushed. How do you respond to that? I just kind of nodded in agreement and shrugged.
"Gotta get your jollies while you can," she said before adding, "You need some rest, dear. You look like hammered shit." She shut her door and went back inside.
She was right. I felt like hammered shit. Since I wasn't going to solve the case of the mysterious runner and was sure it wasn't some lost kid, I decided to call it a night. I went back inside, shut down the apartment, and crawled into bed.
I thought about watching one of the "right kind of internet videos" but fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow.
***
"Your problem is you think the world owes you something."
John, my elderly coworker at the grocery store, was standing by while I unloaded a pallet of cereal. I liked John, and when I first started, we instantly clicked. He's quick with a joke and fun to talk to. He's also about thirty years older than me and speaks with the Boomer combination of accumulated wisdom, backhanded compliments, and fringe conspiracy nonsense. Still, regardless of how couched the kindness is in gobbledygook, he's usually coming from a good place.
"What?" I said, putting a box of Captain Crunch on the shelf.
"You're complaining about your situation, right? Saying it ain't fair. The world took a paddle to your hind quarters? Hey brother, that's the way the cookie crumbles. Gotta just pick yourself up and start over. You're smart enough – figured this job out right quick – you can do it."
The job was wheeling pallets around the store and stocking shelves. It wasn't much to figure out, but I understood his meaning. The other stuff wasn't necessary, though. "I'm just in a funk. I don't see a way forward."
"Hey, so you've bottomed out. No shame in that. Happens to us all. Silver lining, you can only go up," he said before adding, "Unless some other bad shit happens to you like your car dies or your apartment building burns down. But after that, it's only up."
"The apartment building burning down would be a blessing," I said, hoisting another little Captain on the shelf. "The rent is killing me."
"Have you tried negotiating a lower rent? They used to do that when I was your age."
"I think they'd evict me if I even asked."
"Hell, then you'd have at least thirty days, maybe forty, before they'd kick you out. Plenty of time to turn things around."
"Uh-huh," I said, "Any chance you could give me a hand here?"
"My back is screaming like a pretty young thing after prom," he said, holding his back for emphasis.
I didn't push. "Hey, I meant to tell you about some weird shit that happened the other night."
"Lay it on me. I love the strange."
"So, after my shift the other day, I got home around midnight and was flopped on the couch. I heard someone running down the hallway outside my apartment. I wasn't the only one. A few other neighbors heard it, too. When we checked, though, nobody was there."
"That ain't strange," John said, waving his hand, "that's a man who's plowing another man's wife running for his life."
I laughed. "That's not the weird part. So, for the next two nights, it's the same thing. Around midnight, someone runs down the hallway. Only this time, they're trying the door handles as they pass. So, I asked the front desk to check the security cameras, and they do."
"They see a man running away holding his clothes?"
"There wasn't anyone running down the hall," I said, "But the weird thing was, you could see the door handles turning on the video."
"Damn, that's a good one," John said, "You sure it wasn't just a camera glitch. These new ones from overseas aren't as reliable as they want you to think. Chinese probably using them to spy on you, too."
He continued as my brain tried to reconcile John's two opposing comments. "Weird shit happens at night, man. Before working here, I only worked the day shift. Even when they offered me more money to work nights, I turned it down. Even when they promised me a promotion, I turned them down."
In a previous life, John had worked as a paramedic. He came by it after serving in a medical unit in the army. He'd told me he loved the rush of the job, but after a while, the death and hurt in people's eyes got to be too much to handle. But he worked there for almost twenty years. So, the man had a tolerance for shenanigans and odd occurrences.
"Why'd you agree to work nights here?"
"Shit, we're home before the witching hour. This is like late afternoons, at best. But if it was overnights, hell no. Captain Crunch can anchor his own ship to the shelves. I'd take my ass to 7-11 for a day shift before agreeing to work an overnight."
"Something happen to you during the army?”
“I got the clap,” he offered.
I sighed. “What turned you off nights?"
"Oh. I heard enough stories from coworkers to know I didn't want to experience any of that hoo-doo shit," he said, "trying to save someone's life is hard enough without adding in demon kids and ghosts."
"Did your coworkers see demon kids?" I asked, moving on from the good Captain to the Trix rabbit.
He nodded, "They saw too much. I find it odd, even with all the surveillance we have now and all the science we know about these days, that the night still scares us. You ever know someone who worked a night shift?"
I had. My ex. During college, she worked the overnight desk at a hotel for a while. She quit because the job gave her bad vibes. I told John as much.
He pointed and laughed, "See! Don't you find it odd that every person who works at night always has a story of something eerie happening to them? Every person, buster. That's what they call an irrefutable fact."
"Maybe the ghost running down the hallway is an old employee still doing his rounds."
"In that case, keep that door double locked. I'd even wedge a towel under the door just in case."
"Maybe they're friendly? Casper-like in that way."
"You ever heard someone tell you about a friendly ghost outside the funny papers?"
"I'm sure it happens," I said, "The scary ghosts are more popular though."
“We think we know everything there is to know but we are just babes in the woods when it comes to night things.” John shook his head. "Imma tell you one or three things that happened to a guy I worked with back when I first got hired on to chase after corpses in the ambo. Guy's name was Gil. Quiet man, kept to himself. Didn't rock the boat or demand a bigger paddle. Just rowed with us. Good cat to learn under," John said, finally handing me a cereal box.
I took it, and he kept going, "Now, Gil, ya see, he had a little wifey that would pester him about working days. She was a cop and worked evenings at that time, so they never saw each other. When married people can't align their genitals every now and then, it spells doom."
"A little too much information but sure," I said, shelving another box of Trix.
"Probably part of what happened with you and yours," he said. He wasn't wrong, but that didn't mean I wanted to hear it.
John kept on, "Gil finally got approved to move to nights. Little pay boost and a happy, 'fulfilled' wife should've made that man happy. But it didn't. I saw him a few months later, and he had changed. He might've been quiet when he was working with me, but he'd talk to you if you engaged. When I saw him that time, though, oh boy. He looked sick."
"Wasn't a fan of working nights?"
"Wasn't a fan of living anymore is the feeling I got," John said, "After some prodding, he got to talking with me some. Told me he missed days because the nights were messing with him. I thought it had to do with the schedule change, but that wasn't the case. He said he saw things in the dark he couldn't explain. Things that would turn James Brown into James White, ya dig?"
"I...dig," I said.
"Told me they got a call to an abandoned apartment building one night, around three in the morning. Wasn't unusual. Old buildings in the city are where hop-heads congregate and share drugs. Sometimes, the drugs are too much. Sometimes, they find a person passed out or, worse, dead. When you work in the ambo, you aren't scared of death like a civilian. You've been around it. Probably seen a few folks take their last breaths. It doesn't bother you the way Mother Nature intended it should."
He handed me another box, continuing his assist streak, and kept going, "Ambo pulled up, Gil stepped out and looked for someone to talk to. Nobody there, though. Not uncommon. Some people want to help but not be involved. There's not a soul around. He calls out, but nothing comes back. Tells me he turns to get back in the ambulance when he hears a scream from inside the run-down building. They're calling for help. He's gotta go in the abandoned building in the dark."
"No thanks," I said.
"But it don't bother a medic like that. Gil's done a million of these calls. No big deal. He runs into that building but doesn't come back out until twenty minutes later. Just goes missing. After five, the crew heads in to back him up but can't find him. Gil tells me his crew called the cops. It was like he had vanished."
"What happened?"
"I asked him and he got real quiet. Said he fell into some place that looked like here but wasn't here. Said he felt their eyes on him. Judging him. Told me they followed him home and wouldn't leave him be."
"Who?"
John shrugged, "He didn't say. Shut down after that and left. Just walked past me like I was shit on the sidewalk. He quit about a week later. Heard he had a stroke a year later and was a tombstone owner three months after that. Good guy, though."
"Your aversion to overnights makes a little more sense."
"Never in a million years. You don't want something like that coming after you."
"In my case, could it get much worse?" I said with a half-smile.
"Man, I wouldn't even joke about that," he said, making the sign of the cross, "You don't want that shit attachin' itself to you. With your luck, you'd bring him in here, and it'd hop over to me. I can't have a ghost crimping my style."
After a bit, he got called away to sign off on a delivery. I finished out my shift and headed out to the parking lot. When I exited the building and spotted my car, I froze. My doors were all open, and the interior lights were on. Someone had broken in.
I glanced around the lot to see if the thief was still around, but there wasn't another person near me. I walked over to the car and peered inside. My glovebox had been ripped open, and my registration was pulled out, but nothing else was missing.
I found little hand prints in the dirt all along the body and the windows. I held mine up for comparison, and they were about half the size. It must've been some tweens or teens who did this. Maybe they were going to steal some things and got cold feet. I contemplated calling the cops, but since nothing had happened and they wouldn't do anything anyway, there was no reason to delay sleep any longer than I had to. I closed all the doors and climbed inside.
I started the car and heard something rattling in the AC vents. I pulled out my phone and shined the light at the vent. There was a small piece of paper inside. I looked around my car for some tool to pull it out and only found an ink pen and a bent-up paperclip. After McGuyvering the vent for a bit, the paper finally came out.
I held it up and unfolded it. There was a handwritten note. It simply read, "I know you're here. I know you're hiding him. I will find you both, and then it'll be your turn to run the race. We all have to run at some point."
I had no idea what that meant, but my body still provided goosebumps. Who was trying to find me? Who was the second person? Why leave a note in my AC vent? What the hell did run the race mean? I hadn't run a race since elementary school and wasn't planning to do so any time soon. Did they mean the rat race? Because I was basically marathoning that motherfucker already.
"Jesus Christ," I said, shaking my head. "What else, universe?"
As if it were a well-practiced comedy routine, the universe responded. My back passenger door swung open, and I heard footsteps running away from my car. I sprung up and scrambled to get out. There wasn't anyone else in the lot that I could see, but very clearly, someone had been hiding in my backseat.
My nerves were shot already, and this was not something I wanted to deal with at the moment. My brain decided that to avoid a breakdown, I needed to shift into automatic mode and just get back to the safety of my apartment. I'd be more prepared to deal with this – whatever it was – in the morning.
Either that or I'd jump in front of a bus. Both sounded satisfying, albeit in different ways.
***
"There he is," Gloria said as soon as I turned down the hallway. I looked up and noticed a small cabal of my neighbors standing in a semi-circle, waiting for me. They all look displeased.
"Hey guys," I said, confused. "I miss an invite for a block party?"
"What do you have to say for yourself?"
"About?"
"Don't play dumb," another neighbor said, jabbing their finger in my direction.
"I'm not playing," I said, realizing the self-burn only after the words escaped my lips.
Gloria showed me the screen on her phone. It was a static shot of her door from across the hall. She pressed play, and nothing happened for a beat until something darted across the screen. That was the whole thing. I looked up at her, my face twisted up in confusion.
"Well," she said, "What do you have to say?"
"What was that?" I asked.
"That was you!" the pointing neighbor said, pointing harder than I thought possible.
"What?" I said, laughing. "Are you all serious?" They didn't laugh, and I realized they weren't joking. "How can you even tell it's me? It's a blur. Never mind the fact I've been at work for the last five hours. Plus, this blur is half my size. I get we're all weirded out about the Phantom Runner, but it's not me. I swear to God. I don't even have the energy to think about running, let alone the physical desire to."
"Then explain this," Gloria said, slightly swaying from the half bottle of Pinot Noir coursing through her blood. She rewound the video and froze it on a specific frame. I couldn't believe my eyes, but I was looking at...me. Or, rather, something pretending to be me.
"What the fuck?" I said, my jaw dropping.
"Still think we're lying?" the pointer said smugly.
"No, but, guys, this isn't me. I... I've been at work. Wanna see my schedule?"
I reached into my phone and pulled it out. There was an email with my work schedule that confirmed what I was saying. They relaxed, and, for the first time, anger gave way to fear. Their very plausible explanation was suddenly invalid. It left two implausible answers floating in the ether: either I had a pint-sized doppelganger terrorizing the hallways of my apartment, or a ghost was haunting the building.
"I'm...gonna go inside," the pointer said, walking back to their home. Everyone else drifted away until it was just Gloria and I standing alone in the hallway.
She looked at me and sighed, "I feel like an asshole," she said. "Sorry I accused you of causing the racket."
"If I had seen the video, I would've thought the same thing," I said. "We're good."
"What do you think it is?" she asked.
I shrugged and let out an exhausted sigh. "Honestly, Gloria, I've had a screwed-up night already, and this is the cherry on top of the shit sundae; forgive my language. I don't have the mental bandwidth to even comprehend what's on the video at the moment."
"Think it's after you?" she asked, though I suspected the wine had forced her to put that idea out into the universe. As I had already seen, the universe seemed to take requests on my behalf.
"Maybe it's after you?" I said, coming off a little meaner than I intended, but I didn't care. I left her there to contemplate that scenario and went into my apartment.
As soon as the door shut behind me, I felt on edge. Just because I didn't have the mental bandwidth to discuss the doppelganger didn't mean it wasn't dominating my thoughts. I saw the frame of the video. The damn ghost looked exactly like me. What could that possibly mean? I know I had wished for death, but I was very still alive. I had rent due to prove that.
Did I happen to live in a place haunted by a ghost that looked strikingly like me? Was it some kid with a passing resemblance just causing chaos? Was it something else I couldn't even comprehend – an alien? A clone? A secret government project?
There was a thumping coming from the hallway. The mini Usain Bolt was at it again. I knew the neighbors would ignore it. Since they had all thought it was me, which was proven to be untrue, they would avoid the running man from now on. While curious and confused by the creature, they'd never put themselves in harm's way to discover what it was. They were not a brave lot.
Neither was I, but maybe my life crumbling around me had forced my hand. I walked over to my door and swung it open. I hit record on my phone, stuck it out like a periscope, and glanced around the hallway. Nobody was there. No neighbors were looking. No person was running.
"You gotta stop, man. I need to go to sleep," I said to the empty space. No response, not that I was expecting one.
I turned to walk back in, and I caught something out of the corner of my eye. A face at the end of the hallway peeked around the corner. For a quick second, we locked eyes, and it was like I was looking into a mirror. This thing was me. But...how?
I tried to get it on video, but it ducked back into the shadows. I took that as a cue to shut and lock my door. My heart was racing, and I didn't want to think about this anymore, but I couldn't help it. There was a me in the hallway who enjoyed pestering my neighbors. Worse, they liked to run for some ungodly reason.
I put my phone on the counter, the video still rolling, when there was a knock at my door. It echoed in my near-empty apartment. I tried to ignore it and convince myself it was something else, but it wasn't. The ghost was knocking on my door. Even with my brain paralyzed, I couldn't help but think that it was awfully polite to knock.
Another knock, this one more forceful. I wondered if the neighbors thought I was making this up?
"I know you're in there," a voice said. It sounded just like me. "This is about the race. We all have to run the race. It's your turn now."
I froze. My legs went wobbly like a boxer on the brink of a blackout, but I stayed tall. I opened my mouth to speak and found the words dying in my throat. I grabbed a nearby bottle of water and took a chug.
"We all have to run the race."
"What race?" I choked out, "What are you talking about?"
"Open up. They're in there already, and I need to get them."
I glanced all around my empty apartment. I didn't see anyone else in here. I didn't hear anything. Whatever this thing was, it was lying. I grabbed my phone and held it in my hand. I wanted to document this to prove that I wasn't crazy.
“Did you leave the note?”
“I know they’re in there with you,” it repeated.
"There's no one in here," I said.
"They're hiding. I think I know where. I can hear them."
"You've gotta get out of here," I said. "There's nothing here, and you're scaring people."
"I'm scared, and you should be! You have to run the race, man! Open up, and I can show you."
The handle started to shake. I peered through the keyhole and only saw the top of the other me's head. They began to shoulder the door, and it crunched against my nose. I screamed out in pain and stumbled back. I tripped over my feet and landed hard on my ass.
The thing slammed into the door two more times, shaking the walls. The strength seemed unnatural. On the third hit, the door burst open. I finally got a view of the thing. It was me. Scaled down by half, but it was me. We both seemed shocked.
"You're so much taller up close," the other me said.
"Who the fuck are you?"
I felt a buzzing in my feet that seemed to climb up my body until it reached my brain. There was an intense pain that rippled through the folds of my mind. Through the pain, I could hear a disembodied voice whisper, "We all must run the race. We all have to run. Chase it. Chase yourself." It felt like my skull was going to split in two. I clutched the sides of my head and let out a primal scream that hurt my own ears.
Then it was gone. But I could still feel the echoes in my mind. "We all have to run the race. We all have to run." The thought would waver between making no sense and making complete sense. One second, I was questioning what was happening to my mind, and the next, all I felt was the desire to continue the race.
"There he is!" the other me yelled, pointing at the hallway.
I glanced over and saw another version of me standing in the hallway. It was half the size of the other me that had broken into my place. When tiny me locked eyes with my intruder, he ran for the open hallway closet.
The other me followed, screaming that it would catch the little bastard if it was the last thing he'd do. I pushed myself up to my feet and felt queasy. I watched as the other me ran head-first into the closet without slowing. I expected to hear a loud thump as it hit the back wall but none came.
"We all have to run the race," the voice in my head said, soothing my nerves. "It's your time to run the race."
I moved down the hallway, each footfall echoing loudly in the empty apartment, each step bringing me closer to the closet door. Something was drawing me there. The voice's words echoed in my mind as well: "We all have to run the race. It's your turn now."
I grabbed the door and stopped. Something was compelling me to move forward. To go into the closet. To chase myself. To run the race.
"No," I whispered and yanked my hand from the door. I pulled out my still recording phone, and stared into the camera. My face was devoid of color, and you could see the fear etched into me. "I'm freaking out because...because…"
I stopped. I felt an invisible hand grab my body and tug. "Because...because if I don't run the race, something bad will happen. I have to chase it. I...I have to."
My phone dropped from my hand, and I didn’t care. The force pulling me forward stopped but my body kept going. I could feel the last strands of my rational mind splintering. My thoughts became focused on one thing: I had to catch myself, find out what was happening, and run the race. If I ran, maybe I'd win.
I needed a win.
I walked into the back of the closet and felt a door handle sticking out of the wall. I'd been in that closet a million times before and never had seen this. But a sense of calm washed over me. This….this was supposed to be here. This was perfectly fine.
I turned the handle and pulled open the invisible door. In front of me was a hallway that looked strikingly like the one outside my apartment. At the end of the hallway, I saw Gloria step out of their home to leave for the night. She was huge. Twice my size, easy.
Another door opened, and I saw...me—a giant version of me. The Hulk version of me was getting ready to go to the grocery store for work. I watched as the giant Gloria and giant me joked and laughed. I was stunned.
I stared, and a new thought came to me. I have to find the smaller me and talk to it. I needed to find out if there's a way out of this...this….
"It's your turn to run," the voice said.
Calm embraced me. "It's my turn to run," I repeated. As the giant me took off and the giant Gloria re-entered her apartment, the hallway beckoned.
"We all have to run the race," I said softly, "It's my turn now."
I started running.

For offers on my list will consider anything but I prefer Flux, Junk, Bobbles, or Magazines. If you have the Excavator piece mentioned in the title but don't see anything of interest on my armor list, let me know what you have and I'll make an offer.
Ari/25 cryo res/FDCWR Civil Engineer Left leg
Auto/7%LED/WWR Civil Engineer Left leg
Bol/AP/Sentinel Civil Engineer Left leg
Bol/7%LED/Cavalier Civil Engineer Left arm
Bol/25 cryo res/Sneak Civil Engineer Right arm
Bol/Luck/FDCWR Civil Engineer Left leg
Clo/Cha/FDCWR Civil Engineer Left leg
Clo/25 cryo res/FDCWR Civil Engineer Left leg
Clo/Int/Sneak Civil Engineer Right arm
Clo/Luck/FDCWR Civil Engineer Left leg
Clo/Luck/FDCWR Civil Engineer Left leg
Clo/25 cryo res/Sentinel Civil Engineer Right leg
Life/End/FDCWR Civil Engineer Right leg
Mut/Luck/WWR Civil Engineer Right arm
Mut/End/WWR Civil Engineer Left leg
Mut/Int/FDCWR Civil Engineer Left leg
Mut/Luck/WWR Civil Engineer Left leg
OE/StCryo Civil Engineer Right arm
OE/AP/Fire Civil Engineer Right arm
OE/Cha/FDCWR Civil Engineer Chest
OE/AP/AWR Civil Engineer Right arm
OE/7%LED/15%LLD Civil Engineer Left leg
Regen/25 cryo res/Sentinel Civil Engineer Left leg
Tro/StSentinel Civil Engineer Left leg
Tro/25 fire res/Sneak Civil Engineer Right arm
Tro/Int/AWR Civil Engineer Right arm
Tro/AP/Sneak Civil Engineer Right arm
Uny/AP/Block Civil Engineer Right arm
Uny/7%LED/5% Effect Stimpaks Civil Engineer Right leg
Uny/Agi/Sneak Civil Engineer Left arm
Uny/7%LED/Block Civil Engineer Left leg
Uny/7%LED/Energy Civil Engineer Left leg
Uny/7%LED/JWR Civil Engineer Right arm
Uny/H&T 10% Slow/FDCWR Civil Engineer Right leg
Van/7%LED/Cavalier Civil Engineer Left leg
Van/Luck/Sneak Civil Engineer Left leg
Van/Int/WWR Civil Engineer Left leg
Van/AP/Cavalier Civil Engineer Right arm
Van/25 fire res/Sneak Civil Engineer Right arm
Van/Luck/Cavalier Civil Engineer Right arm
Van/Int/Block Civil Engineer Right arm
Van/7%LED/FDCWR Civil Engineer Right leg
Van/25 fire res/AWR Civil Engineer Right leg
Van/AP/Sentinel Civil Engineer Left leg
Wei/H&T 10% Slow/FDCWR Civil Engineer Right leg
Wei/Luck/WWR Civil Engineer Right leg
Wei/StCavalier Civil Engineer Left leg
Wei/StCavalier Civil Engineer Right leg
Wei/AP/Rad rec Civil Engineer Left leg
Wei/7%LED/Fall Civil Engineer Right arm
Ari/PeFDCWR Heavy Combat Right leg
Ari/H&T 10% Slow/WWR Heavy Combat Right leg
Ari/7%LED/Sneak Heavy Combat Left arm
Ari/AP/Dur Combat Right leg
Ari/Int/FDCWR Sturdy Combat Left arm
Bol/Int 2* Heavy Combat Chest
Bol/StFire Heavy Combat Left arm
Bol/7%LED/AWR Combat Chest
Bol/Int/AWR Combat Chest
Clo/25 cryo res/Sentinel Heavy Combat Left leg
Life/7%LED/FDCWR Sturdy Combat Left leg
Life/Luck/FDCWR Sturdy Combat Right arm
Life/7%LED/WWR Sturdy Combat Right arm
OE/Int/Dur Heavy Combat Left arm
OE/AP/Cryo Heavy Combat Right leg
OE/25 dis res/Sentinel Heavy Combat Left leg
OE/25 fire res/Sentinel Sturdy Combat Left leg
OE/St15%LLD Sturdy Combat Left leg
OE/25 cryo res/Fall Sturdy Combat Chest
Tro/25 rad res/FDCWR Heavy Combat Left arm
Tro/StSentinel Heavy Combat Right leg
Tro/AP/Cavalier Sturdy Combat Right arm
Uny/Luck 2* Combat Right leg
Uny/Int/Energy Combat Right leg
Uny/Str 2* Combat Left leg
Uny/7%LED/5% Effect Stimpaks Sturdy Combat Chest
Uny/25 cryo res/Cavalier Sturdy Combat Left arm
Van/7%LED/5% Effect Stimpaks Heavy Combat Left arm
Van/25 rad res/WWR Combat Right leg
Wei/Int/Cavalier Sturdy Combat Right leg
Ari/25 cryo res/FDCWR Excavator Right leg
Ari/25 fire res/Sentinel Excavator Right leg
Ari/25 rad res/WWR Excavator Left arm
Ari/StFDCWR Excavator Torso
Ari/7%LED/AWR Excavator Left leg
Ari/25 rad res/Cavalier Excavator Right leg
Ass/7%LED/Sentinel Excavator Left leg
Ass/7%LED/WWR Excavator Left leg
Ass/7%LED/FDCWR Excavator Right leg
Ass/Int/Cavalier Excavator Right arm
Ass/7%LED/Sentinel Excavator Right leg
Auto/AP/Rad rec Excavator Right arm
Auto/Luck/WWR Excavator Right leg
Bol/PeFDCWR Excavator Torso
Bol/25 cryo res/WWR Excavator Right arm
Bol/Int/WWR Excavator Right arm
Bol/AP 2* Excavator Left arm
Bol/25 rad res/FDCWR Excavator Left leg
Bol/25 rad res/FDCWR Excavator Left leg
Bol/25 pos res/AWR Excavator Right arm
Clo/25 rad res/FDCWR Excavator Right leg
Clo/StSentinel Excavator Right arm
Hun/Int/Sentinel Excavator Right arm
Hun/Int/Sentinel Excavator Right arm
Cha/Luck/Sentinel Excavator Torso
Cha/25 cryo res/WWR Excavator Left arm
Cha/25 cryo res/FDCWR Excavator Left arm
Cha/Int/Cavalier Excavator Right leg
MutSla/AP/AWR Excavator Right arm
Mut/AP/JWR Excavator Right arm
Mut/Cha/WWR Excavator Left leg
Mut/AP/WWR Excavator Torso
Mut/PeCavalier Excavator Left leg
Mut/AP/AWR Excavator Right arm
OE/25 rad res/WWR Excavator Right leg
OE/AP 2* Excavator Torso
OE/25 cryo res/FDCWR Excavator Right leg
OE/End/Sentinel Excavator Right arm
OE/25 cryo res 2* Excavator Torso
OE/Int/Block Excavator Right arm
OE/Cha/Cavalier Excavator Right arm
OE/End/AWR Excavator Right arm
OE/StJWR Excavator Right arm
OE/AP 2* Excavator Right leg
OE/H&T 10% Slow/WWR Excavator Left leg
OE/7%LED/WWR Excavator Right arm
Regen/25 cryo res/AWR Excavator Left leg
Regen/7%LED/WWR Excavator Left leg
Tro/Int/FDCWR Excavator Right arm
Tro/25 fire res/Cavalier Excavator Torso
Tro/AP/FDCWR Excavator Right arm
Tro/25 fire res/WWR Excavator Right arm
Tro/25 fire res/Cavalier Excavator Right arm
Van/Int/WWR Excavator Right leg
Van/AP/Rad rec Excavator Left leg
Van/AP/JWR Excavator Left arm
Van/25 pos res/AWR Excavator Right leg
Bol/StJWR Heavy Leather Chest
Bol/AP/15%LLD Leather Right arm
Bol/Int/Cavalier Leather Right leg
Clo/Cha/WWR Heavy Leather Right arm
Cha/AP/AWR Heavy Leather Right arm
Cha/AP 2* Heavy Leather Left arm
Cha/25 cryo res/WWR Sturdy Leather Right leg
OE/Cha/JWR Heavy Leather Chest
Tro/Luck/Sentinel Leather Right arm
Uny/H&T 10% Slow/Sentinel Heavy Leather Left arm
Uny/25 fire res/15%LLD Sturdy Leather Right arm
Van/25 rad res/FDCWR Heavy Leather Right arm
Van/25 pos res/FDCWR Leather Right leg
Van/Int/15%LLD Sturdy Leather Left leg
Van/7%LED/FDCWR Sturdy Leather Right arm
Wei/StFDCWR Heavy Leather Right leg
Wei/StWWR Leather Left leg
Wei/7%LED/Cavalier Sturdy Leather Left arm
Ari/Luck/Sneak Marine Chest
Ari/7%LED/WWR Marine Left arm
Ari/AP 2* Marine Chest
Ass/StAWR Marine Right leg
Ass/AP/Rad rec Marine Right leg
Bol/Luck/AWR Marine Left leg
Bol/25 fire res/Sneak Marine Right arm
Clo/AP 2* Marine Left leg
Cha/7%LED/WWR Marine Chest
Cha/AP/Rad rec Marine Left leg
Life/25 pos res/WWR Marine Chest
Life/AP/Cavalier Marine Right leg
Mut/StFDCWR Marine Chest
Noc/Luck/WWR Marine Left arm
Noc/StWWR Marine Chest
OE/25 fire res/WWR Marine Right arm
Tro/25 cryo res/Sentinel Marine Left arm
Tro/Int/Block Marine Right leg
Uny/Agi/WWR Marine Right leg
Uny/7%LED/Block Marine Right leg
Van/Int/Sneak Marine Left arm
Van/PeWWR Marine Right arm
Van/Int/JWR Marine Left arm
Van/Int/5% Effect Stimpaks Marine Left leg
Van/StCryo Marine Chest
Wei/Luck/AWR Marine Right arm
Wei/7%LED/Cavalier Marine Right leg
Ass/AP/Rad rec Heavy Metal Left leg
Bol/Luck/Sentinel Metal Chest
Bol/Int/AWR Sturdy Metal Chest
Clo/AP/AWR Heavy Metal Right arm
Clo/Luck/AWR Metal Right leg
Clo/End/FDCWR Sturdy Metal Right arm
Life/25 rad res/FDCWR Sturdy Metal Left leg
OE/StFire Heavy Metal Chest
OE/7%LED/Fire Heavy Metal Right leg
OE/AP/Fall Metal Right arm
OE/StWWR Metal Right leg
OE/7%LED/Fire Metal Left arm
OE/Cha/FDCWR Sturdy Metal Right arm
Tro/StCavalier Heavy Metal Left arm
Tro/25 cryo res/AWR Sturdy Metal Chest
Tro/Cha/Sentinel Sturdy Metal Chest
Uny/Agi/Sentinel Heavy Metal Left arm
Uny/7%LED 2* Heavy Metal Right arm
Uny/PeSentinel Metal Chest
Uny/St5% Effect Stimpaks Sturdy Metal Chest
Uny/25 dis res/AWR Sturdy Metal Left arm
Uny/Str 2* Sturdy Metal Left leg
Van/AP/Fall Heavy Metal Left arm
Van/Luck/AWR Metal Left leg
Wei/AP/Sentinel Metal Right arm
Ari/Agi/FDCWR Heavy Raider Right leg
Ari/Int/WWR Power Raider Left leg
Ari/7%LED/Sentinel Power Raider Left arm
Ari/AP 2* Power Raider Right arm
Ass/AP/AWR Power Raider Torso
Ass/Int/WWR Sturdy Raider Right leg
Auto/AP/AWR Heavy Raider Chest
Auto/Int/FDCWR Power Raider Right leg
Auto/25 fire res/WWR Power Raider Right arm
Auto/StAWR Power Raider Torso
Bol/AP/15%LLD Heavy Raider Left leg
Bol/End/AWR Power Raider Torso
Bol/StAWR Power Raider Left arm
Bol/AP/Fire Power Raider Right arm
Bol/Luck/Rad rec Power Raider Left leg
Clo/Int/WWR Heavy Raider Chest
Clo/AP/Block Power Raider Left arm
Clo/25 fire res/WWR Power Raider Right arm
Clo/AP/FDCWR Sturdy Raider Left arm
Clo/AP/5% Effect Stimpaks Sturdy Raider Left leg
Ext/AP/FDCWR Power Raider Left leg
Cha/AP/JWR Heavy Raider Left arm
Cha/25 cryo res/Sentinel Power Raider Left leg
Cha/7%LED/FDCWR Power Raider Torso
Cha/25 pos res/WWR Power Raider Left arm
Cha/AP/JWR Power Raider Right leg
Cha/AP/FDCWR Power Raider Right arm
Life/StFDCWR Sturdy Raider Left arm
Mut/Luck/WWR Power Raider Left leg
Noc/AP/WWR Power Raider Left leg
OE/AP 2* Power Raider Right leg
OE/7%LED/Cavalier Power Raider Right arm
OE/End/Cavalier Sturdy Raider Chest
OE/25 cryo res/Sneak Sturdy Raider Left arm
OE/25 fire res/Sentinel Sturdy Raider Right leg
OE/25 cryo res/15%LLD Sturdy Raider Left arm
Regen/StWWR Power Raider Left leg
Regen/Int/Cavalier Power Raider Left leg
Regen/Int/Cavalier Power Raider Right arm
Regen/7%LED/Sentinel Sturdy Raider Left arm
Tro/AP/FDCWR Raider Left leg
Tro/Int/AWR Power Raider Torso
Tro/7%LED/JWR Power Raider Left leg
Uny/St15%LLD Heavy Raider Left arm
Uny/Cha/Sneak Raider Right leg
Uny/Agi/Sneak Sturdy Raider Left arm
Van/PeFDCWR Heavy Raider Left leg
Van/AP/Dur Heavy Raider Right leg
Van/25 cryo res/AWR Power Raider Torso
Van/End/FDCWR Power Raider Left leg
Van/StBlock Power Raider Torso
Van/AP/Poision Power Raider Torso
Van/Cha/Sentinel Sturdy Raider Left leg
Van/AP/WWR Sturdy Raider Right leg
Wei/StAWR Raider Right leg
Wei/25 rad res/FDCWR Raider Chest
Zea/7%LED/AWR Power Raider Right arm
Zea/StFDCWR Power Raider Torso
Ari/25 fire res/AWR Robot Left leg
Auto/AP/Block Sturdy Robot Chest
Bol/AP/Energy Robot Chest
Clo/Int/Sneak Robot Right arm
Clo/25 fire res/Sentinel Sturdy Robot Right leg
Cha/Luck/FDCWR Heavy Robot Right leg
Cha/7%LED/WWR Robot Chest
Life/Luck/Sneak Heavy Robot Left leg
Life/7%LED/Sneak Sturdy Robot Chest
OE/Agi/JWR Heavy Robot Chest
OE/Int 2* Heavy Robot Left arm
OE/StCavalier Heavy Robot Left arm
OE/Str 2* Heavy Robot Left leg
OE/PeCavalier Robot Chest
OE/AP/Poision Robot Right arm
OE/StAWR Robot Chest
OE/Int/Dur Sturdy Robot Left leg
OE/StCavalier Sturdy Robot Left arm
OE/Int 2* Sturdy Robot Left arm
Regen/AP/AWR Heavy Robot Left arm
Regen/7%LED/AWR Sturdy Robot Chest
Tro/Cha/WWR Robot Chest
Tro/Int/Cryo Sturdy Robot Left arm
Uny/25 dis res/FDCWR Robot Chest
Uny/25 dis res/AWR Robot Right leg
Uny/7%LED/Dur Sturdy Robot Chest
Van/Agi/FDCWR Sturdy Robot Left leg
Wei/25 pos res/FDCWR Sturdy Robot Chest
Wei/AP/15%LLD Heavy Robot Chest
Zea/Luck/Cavalier Robot Right arm
Ari/StSneak Scout (Forest) Left leg
Ari/AP/Energy Scout (Forest) Left leg
Auto/AP/Cavalier Scout (Forest) Chest
Bol/StSentinel Scout (Forest) Left leg
Bol/StFDCWR Scout (Forest) Right arm
Bol/AP/5% Effect Stimpaks Scout (Forest) Chest
Bol/AP/Cryo Scout (Forest) Right leg
Ext/StWWR Scout (Forest) Right arm
Ext/7%LED/WWR Scout (Forest) Right leg
Cha/Luck/Sentinel Scout (Forest) Left arm
Cha/Cha/WWR Scout (Forest) Left leg
Cha/End/Cavalier Scout (Forest) Right arm
Life/StWWR Scout (Forest) Chest
Mut/AP/WWR Scout (Forest) Chest
Noc/StWWR Scout (Forest) Left arm
OE/25 fire res/Cavalier Scout (Forest) Chest
OE/H&T 10% Slow/AWR Scout (Forest) Left arm
OE/StAWR Scout (Forest) Right arm
OE/H&T 10% Slow/AWR Scout (Forest) Right arm
Uny/Luck/5% Effect Stimpaks Scout (Forest) Chest
Uny/7%LED/5% Effect Stimpaks Scout (Forest) Left arm
Uny/AP/Dur Scout (Forest) Right arm
Uny/AP/Poision Scout (Forest) Right leg
Uny/H&T 10% Slow/Sentinel Scout (Forest) Left arm
Van/25 cryo res/FDCWR Scout (Forest) Left arm
Van/End/WWR Scout (Forest) Left arm
Van/25 pos res/AWR Scout (Forest) Right leg
Van/25 rad res/WWR Scout (Forest) Right arm
Bol/Int/Cavalier Scout (Urban) Chest
Clo/Int/Block Scout (Urban) Chest
Gho/AP/Sentinel Scout (Urban) Right leg
Hun/AP/Sneak Scout (Urban) Right leg
Cha/25 fire res/Sentinel Scout (Urban) Right leg
Life/Int/WWR Scout (Urban) Left arm
MutSla/Int/Cavalier Scout (Urban) Left leg
Mut/Luck/Sentinel Scout (Urban) Right arm
OE/AP/Energy Scout (Urban) Right arm
OE/Luck/Fire Scout (Urban) Left arm
OE/25 pos res/Sentinel Scout (Urban) Chest
OE/Luck/Fire Scout (Urban) Left arm
Regen/AP/Sneak Scout (Urban) Left arm
Regen/Int/FDCWR Scout (Urban) Chest
Tro/7%LED/15%LLD Scout (Urban) Right arm
Tro/7%LED/WWR Scout (Urban) Right arm
Tro/StFDCWR Scout (Urban) Right leg
Tro/7%LED/Sentinel Scout (Urban) Right leg
Tro/Int/Energy Scout (Urban) Right leg
Uny/AP/Sneak Scout (Urban) Chest
Uny/PeDur Scout (Urban) Chest
Van/AP 2* Scout (Urban) Left leg
Wei/StCavalier Scout (Urban) Chest
Zea/StSentinel Scout (Urban) Right arm
Ari/Int/WWR T45 Right leg
Ari/AP/Block T45 Left arm
Ass/25 fire res/Cavalier T45 Left leg
Auto/25 fire res/WWR T45 Right leg
Bol/PeFDCWR T45 Left leg
Bol/Luck/AWR T45 Left arm
Bol/Luck/JWR T45 Left arm
Clo/7%LED/WWR T45 Right arm
Clo/AP 2* T45 Torso
Clo/PeCavalier T45 Right leg
Gho/Luck/WWR T45 Right arm
Hun/AP/JWR T45 Right arm
Cha/7%LED/Cavalier T45 Right arm
Cha/End/AWR T45 Left leg
Noc/25 fire res/WWR T45 Right leg
OE/Int/Cavalier T45 Left leg
OE/AP/Poision T45 Torso
OE/Luck/Fire T45 Right arm
OE/Str 2* T45 Right leg
OE/AP 2* T45 Right arm
OE/Int/Cryo T45 Left arm
OE/AP/WWR T45 Left leg
OE/25 fire res/Sentinel T45 Right arm
Tro/25 dis res/FDCWR T45 Left leg
Tro/Luck/WWR T45 Right leg
Van/Int/WWR T45 Right leg
Van/StCavalier T45 Right arm
Van/Luck/Sentinel T45 Torso
Van/StRad rec T45 Right arm
Van/25 fire res/AWR T45 Left leg
Van/StJWR T45 Right arm
Van/H&T 10% Slow/WWR T45 Torso
Zea/AP/Sentinel T45 Right leg
Ari/End/FDCWR T51 Right arm
Ari/AP 2* T51 Left leg
Ass/Int/Sentinel T51 Right leg
Auto/StWWR T51 Right arm
Auto/AP/AWR T51 Right arm
Auto/Int/Sentinel T51 Torso
Bol/AP/Sentinel T51 Right leg
Bol/Int 2* T51 Right arm
Bol/25 cryo res/Sentinel T51 Right leg
Bol/25 rad res/AWR T51 Right arm
Gho/7%LED/FDCWR T51 Torso
Gho/Int/WWR T51 Right arm
Hun/AP/WWR T51 Torso
Cha/25 dis res/WWR T51 Left arm
Cha/25 cryo res/Cavalier T51 Right leg
Mut/25 cryo res/WWR T51 Left arm
Mut/StWWR T51 Torso
Noc/7%LED/AWR T51 Right leg
OE/AP 2* T51 Right leg
OE/25 cryo res/FDCWR T51 Right arm
OE/PeCavalier T51 Right arm
OE/AP 2* T51 Right arm
OE/St5% Effect Stimpaks T51 Right leg
Tro/25 pos res/WWR T51 Left leg
Tro/7%LED/Cavalier T51 Torso
Van/25 pos res/Sentinel T51 Left leg
Van/Int/AWR T51 Right leg
Van/25 fire res/FDCWR T51 Left leg
Zea/AP/AWR T51 Right leg
Ass/7%LED/FDCWR T60 Right leg
Ass/AP 2* T60 Right leg
Ass/7%LED/Sentinel T60 Right leg
Bol/Luck/FDCWR T60 Right leg
Bol/7%LED/Fire T60 Left arm
Bol/End/Sentinel T60 Left leg
Bol/7%LED/Dur T60 Left leg
Bol/StCavalier T60 Left arm
Clo/PeWWR T60 Left arm
Clo/7%LED/WWR T60 Right arm
Cha/7%LED/Sentinel T60 Right leg
Mut/Int/Sentinel T60 Left arm
OE/H&T 10% Slow/Cavalier T60 Right leg
OE/H&T 10% Slow/Sentinel T60 Left arm
Van/AP 2* T60 Right leg
Van/End/WWR T60 Right arm
Van/25 dis res/WWR T60 Right arm
Zea/7%LED/Sentinel T60 Left arm
Ari/End/Sentinel Trapper Left arm
Bol/Luck/FDCWR Trapper Left arm
Bol/AP/Block Trapper Right leg
Bol/Luck/Block Trapper Chest
Clo/StAWR Trapper Chest
Clo/PeWWR Trapper Left leg
Clo/PeSentinel Trapper Right arm
Cha/AP/15%LLD Trapper Left leg
Cha/25 cryo res/Sneak Trapper Chest
Noc/Int/Sneak Trapper Right leg
Noc/AP/WWR Trapper Chest
OE/StCryo Trapper Left leg
OE/Int/Fire Trapper Right arm
Tro/AP/Dur Trapper Chest
Tro/Int/JWR Trapper Chest
Uny/Luck/JWR Trapper Left arm
Uny/25 dis res/FDCWR Trapper Right arm
Uny/AP 2* Trapper Right leg
Uny/Int/Fire Trapper Left leg
Uny/St15%LLD Trapper Left leg
Van/25 cryo res/WWR Trapper Left leg
Van/AP 2* Trapper Left leg
Van/AP/Block Trapper Chest
Van/Int/WWR Trapper Right leg
Ari/25 pos res/WWR Ultracite Right leg
Ass/StAWR Ultracite Right arm
Ass/AP/FDCWR Ultracite Right leg
Ass/Int/WWR Ultracite Right arm
Bol/AP 2* Ultracite Left leg
Clo/Agi/FDCWR Ultracite Left leg
Clo/25 cryo res/WWR Ultracite Left leg
Clo/AP/Cryo Ultracite Right arm
Hun/AP/FDCWR Ultracite Left leg
Cha/7%LED/WWR Ultracite Left arm
Mut/AP/Sentinel Ultracite Left arm
Noc/7%LED/AWR Ultracite Right arm
OE/H&T 10% Slow/AWR Ultracite Torso
OE/StPoision Ultracite Left leg
OE/StDur Ultracite Left leg
OE/25 dis res/AWR Ultracite Torso
OE/25 cryo res/FDCWR Ultracite Right arm
Regen/Cha/WWR Ultracite Left arm
Tro/7%LED/Sentinel Ultracite Torso
Van/25 cryo res/AWR Ultracite Right leg
Van/25 pos res/Sentinel Ultracite Left arm
Van/Int/Cavalier Ultracite Left leg
Van/H&T 10% Slow/WWR Ultracite Left arm
Zea/Int/Sentinel Ultracite Right arm
Ari/AP/FDCWR Wood Left arm
Ari/25 pos res/Sentinel Wood Right leg
Ass/7%LED/Cavalier Wood Left arm
Bol/H&T 10% Slow/FDCWR Wood Right leg
Clo/StAWR Wood Left arm
Clo/H&T 10% Slow/WWR Wood Left arm
Clo/25 cryo res/FDCWR Wood Right arm
Clo/7%LED/Cavalier Wood Left leg
MutSla/Int/FDCWR Wood Left arm
Mut/Int/FDCWR Wood Chest
OE/Agi/Cavalier Wood Right arm
OE/Luck 2* Wood Left leg
OE/7%LED/Dur Wood Chest
Regen/AP/WWR Wood Right arm
Uny/Cha/JWR Wood Left arm
Uny/25 pos res/Cavalier Wood Right arm
Uny/StSentinel Wood Right leg
Uny/Cha/Sneak Wood Right leg
Uny/Str 2* Wood Right leg
Van/StWWR Wood Left leg
Van/25 fire res/WWR Wood Chest
Van/StSneak Wood Left leg
Van/Luck/Sentinel Wood Right leg
Van/Cha/FDCWR Wood Right arm
Wei/AP/Fire Wood Left leg
Wei/Cha/Sentinel Wood Chest
Zea/Int/FDCWR Wood Chest
Ass/25 cryo res/FDCWR X01 Left arm
Auto/25 cryo res/AWR X01 Right arm
Clo/End/FDCWR X01 Torso
Cha/StAWR X01 Left arm
OE/End/FDCWR X01 Right leg
Tro/Luck/AWR X01 Right leg
Tro/25 rad res/FDCWR X01 Torso
Van/Int/WWR X01 Right leg
Van/Cha/AWR X01 Left leg

Timestamp: https://imgur.com/a/C6PYjin
Payment via PPGS (I will eat all the fees) or Zelle. Dibs gets it. No sales to mag ban states.
All mags are new in pack. Asking $125 for lot of 5 or $340 for all 15.
2x - FDE Okay Surefeed E2 Lot of 5
1x - Black Okay Surefeed E2 Lot of 5

https://imgur.com/gallery/813Gyzl
https://imgchest.com/p/qb4z3bz857j
Hi,
Cutting back on collecting and I’m selling a bunch of games! Not everything is pictured here so let me know if you need pics of an item.
I prefer PayPal friends and Family. I have many confirmed trades here.
I’m happy to provide pics for any items and detailed condition descriptions.
Shipping is free over $25, or $4 per item. (Shipping is only within the United States. No international shipping unless you are willing to pay the exact cost of shipping)
There is always room for negotiation, prices are based on market value, but there is wiggle room if you buy more than one game.
I’m also looking to buy Game Boy (DMG) loose
Beethoven
Beetlejuice
Darkman
Maui Mallard
Metal Masters (OG not LRG rerelease)
Super Breakout (grey cartridge for GB DMG)
Spud’s Adventure
For Sale
Legend of Zelda Game & Watch (New) $38
\*\*\*
Switch
Akka Arrh (LRG New) $39
Arietta of Spirits (New Red Art Games) $39
Atari Recharged Collection 1 (New) $33
Bite the Bullet (New SLG with updated cart) $85
Bloodrayne Betrayal (New LRG) $39
Bloodstained Curse of the Moon 2 (LRG BB New) $30
Cotton Reboot (CIB) $20Devil Engine (New JP) $29
Devil May Cry Triple Pack (New, code expired, Only has DMC 1 on cart) $20
Doom: The Classics Collection (New LRG Best Buy variant cover) $39 Drainus (New SLG with Postcard) $75 Dying Light (CIB) $20
ExZeus (New) $25 Final Fantasy 7 Crisis Core Reunion (CIB) $27 Fire Emblem Warriors (New) $23
Game Builder Garage (CIB) $20
Ghost Blade HD (CIB) $25
Grow: Song of the Evertree (New) $25
Ittle Dew (New with all goodies) $110
Ittle Dew 2 (CIB with map and Manual) $35
Kamiko (Rare New with soundtrack and card B-Side) $115
Koumajou Remilia Scarlet Symphony (CIB) $30
Kyogeki Quartet Fighters (CIB B-Side with CD and Goodies) $139
Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom (Case, manual and stickers only, no game) $25 The Mummy Demastered Collector’s Edition (New LRG) $92
NeverAwake (New JP) $34
Ni No Kuni (CIB) $20
Oniken + Odallus Collection Limited Edition (New) $49
Onimusha Warlords (Japanese Release with English CIB) $29
Overlord Escape from Nazarick (NEW JP) $35
Pokémon Pokeball + box Only, (no pokeball) $12
Pressure Overdrive (New) $28 (SLG)
Psikyo Collection Vol.2 (Japan) (New) $20 R-Type Dimensions EX (CIB SLG with Postcard) $129 Space Invaders Invincible Collection (CIB SLG) $58
Star Hunter DX + Space Moth (New SLG with Postcard) $59
Superepic The Entertainment War (New) $25 TriggerHeart Exelica (JP New) $25
Wonder Boy Returns Remix $40 (New with Postcard)
The Wonderful 101 (New Kickstarter edition with holographic cover) $38 Xeodrifter (Red Art Games) (New) $25 Xeodrifter (Atooi/LRG New) $25
3DS
Andro Dunos 2 (New) $38
Astérix le Domaine des Dieux (PAL CIB) $12
Brain Age Concentration Training (CIB) $15
Code Name Steam (New) $10Dr. Kawashima 3DS (French PAL CIB) $15
Fragrant Story (New) $38
Go! Go! Kokopolo Anniversary Collection (Limited Run Games) (New) $83
Kid Icarus (manual and inserts only) $10
The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds (Nintendo Selects) (New) $25 The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds (Handheld Game of the Year Edition) (New) $55 Metroid Samus Returns (Case and insert only) $10
PES 2013 (CIB) $9
Resident Evil Revelations (CIB With misprint cover and the corrected cover) $28 Sega 3D Classics (New) $27
Sega 3D Fukkoku Reprinted Archives 1 (New) $100
Sega 3D Fukkoku Reprinted Archives 3 Final Stage (New) $270
Shakedown Hawaii (New) $55
Steeldiver (New) $10
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (CIB) $8
DS
6 Loose DS carts (Crosswords DS, Mon Coach Personnel, Moshi Monsters 1 & 2, Mots Croissés, Scribblenauts) $12
Teenage Mutant Ninja 3 Mutant Nightmare (CIB) $35
Game Boy DMG (Manuals only)(Price based on market value and condition) Alleyway $5 Donkey Kong Land $7 Double Dragon $6 Four Player Adapter $4 Game Boy DMG Instruction Booklet $8 Golf $5
Pacman $5 Revenge of the Gator $10 Tetris $5 Tetris 2 $5
\*\*\*
Super Nintendo (carts only) (take the lot for $25 shipped)
Batman Returns $22
The Magical Quest Starring Mickey Mouse (PAL Version) $8
Super Famicom (carts only) (take the lot for $75 shipped)
Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest $8
Return of Double Dragon $20
Super Ghouls N Ghosts $10
Turtles in Time (Super Famicom) $35
Torneko No Daiboken (Dragon Quest IV Spin-Off) $9
\*\*\*
Wii U
Super Mario 3D World (Case and manual only, no disc) $5
*** PS5
Death Stranding Director’s Cut New $25
Devil May Cry 5 CIB $20 Kena Bridge of Spirits Deluxe Edition (CIB) $20
Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom (New LRG) $48The Pathless (New) $18
*** PS Vita
Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate (New) $25
La-Mulana EX (LRG New) $40
Odin Sphere Leifthrasir (CIB with high quality custom made manual) $69
Risk of Rain ( LRG CIB) $35
The Swapper (LRG New) $45 Teslagrad (New) $25
Xeodrifter (LRG New with barcode hole under seal) $32
*** PS4
Amazing Princess Sarah (New) $32 Assassin’s Creed Ezio Collection (CIB) $10
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey (CIB) $9 Assassin’s Creed Syndicate (CIB) $8
Assassin’s Creed Unity (CIB) $8
Cobra Kai (CIB) $10Darksiders III (CIB) $9 Disco Elysium Final Cut (CIB) $15The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition (CIB) $12
Injustice 2 Legendary Edition (CIB) $10 No Man’s Sky Beyond (CIB) $25 Sega Genesis Classics (CIB) $18
Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap (New LRG, Master System cover) $24
PS3God of War Collection (CIB) $17
***
Amiibos
Palamute sealed $19
Palico sealed $19

Purtle's Internet Lineup for May 21st, 2024 8:00pm
Pics:

• my favorite part about this was people asking Adam Wingard what inspired him and he's just like "i think it's cute when my cat takes a nap in her lil cat bed." https://twitter.com/ThatWitchMia/status/1792264981712671230
  
• paper mario TTYD remake: oh my goodness gracious. this is not an edit. we won. we won so hard. https://twitter.com/Dededaio2/status/1792907310785830917
  
• these two might have the most catastrophically poor distribution of any pokemon in history https://twitter.com/Lewchube/status/1792960406010396726
  

Clips:

• bring back old trolls https://twitter.com/roxaplasm/status/1792234956405543407
  
• What if Pokemon and AnimalCrossing had a crossover game https://twitter.com/spicyBeefu/status/1792964068577296679
  
• Free-to-play versions of some of Falcoms games were apparently released in South Korea as part of a service called FROG in the 2000s. The way it worked was that players would watch ads that periodically popped up during loading screens. Pretty funny to see in action. https://twitter.com/bowloflentils/status/1780632118151856541
  

Videos

• Happy 20 years of Shrek 2! To celebrate, we are proud to unleash the official trailer for Shrek 2 Retold, our crowdsourced, scene-for-scene remake of the greatest fairytale sequel ever told! https://twitter.com/the3GI/status/1792318791944159460
  
• Find your rhythm with new Character BGM Settings in the Audio tab where you can change which track plays during a fight! Music throughout Street Fighter history is available for purchase with Drive Tickets or Fighter Coins - all packaged by series. Coming with the Akuma Update! https://twitter.com/StreetFightestatus/1792676674770792785
  
• It's your graduation day and this music starts playing https://twitter.com/MaryoZimmerman/status/1792712035035439333
  
• ELDEN RING Shadow of the Erdtree Story Trailer [3:15] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6uT8wGtB3yQ
  
• Marbler has done it! For the first time ever, Super Mario 64 has been beaten in 0 A presses! https://old.reddit.com/speedrun/comments/1cx5yid/marbler_has_done_it_for_the_first_time_ever_supe
  
• Here comes new challenge screens customizations! Brighten your matches with these illustrations from kangyaku, the artist behind the web comic "You've Got This, Juri!" Pick them up with Fighter Coins or Drive Tickets on May 22. https://twitter.com/StreetFightestatus/1793039068114108517
  

Articles/News/Other

• Red Lobster files for bankruptcy https://old.reddit.com/news/comments/1cwgslp/red_lobster_files_for_bankruptcy/
  
• Nintendo acquires Shiver Entertainment from Embracer. "Shiver’s focus will remain the same, continuing commissions that port and develop software for multiple platforms including Nintendo Switch." Shiver recently worked on porting & developing Hogwarts Legacy and Mortal Kombat 1 https://twitter.com/Wario64/status/1792702231893946845
  
• 10-year-old swept into storm drain to become an organ donor, dad says https://old.reddit.com/news/comments/1cwq5t2/10yearold_swept_into_storm_drain_to_become_an/
  
• Scarlett Johansson Says She Declined ChatGPT's Proposal to Use Her Voice for AI – But They Used It Anyway: 'I Was Shocked' https://old.reddit.com/technology/comments/1cwsv4o/scarlett_johansson_says_she_declined_chatgpts/
  
  • Scarlett Johansson's response to Sam Altman ripping off her voice https://old.reddit.com/interestingasfuck/comments/1cwthib/scarlett_johanssons_response_to_sam_altman/
• Microplastics found in every human testicle in study https://old.reddit.com/interestingasfuck/comments/1cwzggv/microplastics_found_in_every_human_testicle_in/
  
• Minors again found working at Alabama poultry plant where 16-year-old died, Department of Labor says https://old.reddit.com/news/comments/1cx7umd/minors_again_found_working_at_alabama_poultry/
  
• Twitch - Today we’re rolling out two new content filtering and blurring tools that give you more control over your viewing experience. https://twitter.com/Twitch/status/1792965279959658758
  
• Tucker Carlson launches show on Russian state TV https://old.reddit.com/NewsOfTheStupid/comments/1cxcd7p/tucker_carlson_launches_show_on_russian_state_tv/
  
• JUST IN: Boeing offers condolences after a passenger was killed on a Boeing 777 plane, says their “thoughts” are with the passengers and crew. In total 30 people were injured and a 73-year-old British man was killed. The incident happened after the plane fell a whopping 6000 feet. “Suddenly the aircraft starts tilting up and there was shaking so I started bracing for what was happening, and very suddenly there was a very dramatic drop so everyone seated and not wearing seatbelt was launched immediately into the ceiling,” a passenger said. “Some people hit their heads on the baggage cabins overhead and dented it, they hit the places where lights and masks are and broke straight through it.” https://twitter.com/CollinRugg/status/1792929488730194207
  
• Why Were Older Pokemon Games More Memorable? and what takeaways on adventure games can we learn from this? (links below!) https://twitter.com/han_tani/status/1792888131248955781
  
• Gamers Have Become Less Interested in Strategic Thinking and Planning https://old.reddit.com/gaming/comments/1cxf1ei/gamers_have_become_less_interested_in_strategic/
  

Emperor Zodiac Services is back on reddit to provide you my servicesI have been selling since TI10 and stopped due to complication with reddit postings.

But now I have returned to provide service to those who are interested as there is coin to be made.
For proof of legitimacy as a businessman please look at my steam profile
Mode of payment Gcash/Coins.ph/Paypal/Paymaya
Down payment of half or full payment is a must for transaction to proceed to avoid joy riders
If interested feel free to message me in reddit or in steam ( Prefer steam as I am more active there) ^^

1 Time Item CC for sale	Quantity	Price
Glory of the Elderflame (Lina)	(Available = 1)	$40
Lineage of the Stormlords (Juggernaut)	(Available = 1)	$40
Eyriebound Imperator (Skywrath Mage)	(Available = 1)	$50
Vision of the Seraph Scion (Vengeful Spirit)	(Available = 0) (Sold = 1)	$60
Indomitable Legacy (Sven)	(Available = 1)	$100
Footfalls of the Spore Fathers (Witch Doctor)	(Available = 1)	$120

TI8 Collectors Cache	Quantity	Price
Dread Ascendance (Doom Bringer)	(Available = 1)	$60

TI9 Collectors Cache	Quantity	Price
Prized Acquisition (Batrider)	(Available = 1)	$15

Nemestice Collectors Cache	Quantity	Price
Caerulian Stars (Enchantress)	(Available = 2)	$6
Litany of the Damned (Doombringer)	(Available = 1)	$15
Twilight Hex (Dark Willow)	(Available = 2)	$10

Aghanims Collectors Cache	Quantity	Price
Forgotten Fate (Mars)	(Available = 1)	$10
Perils of the Red Banks (Chen)	(Available = 2)	$10
Rare: Pyrexae Polymorph Perfected (Ogre Magi)	(Available = 1)	$35

Diretide Collectors Cache I	Quantity	Price
Crimson Dawn (Phoenix)	(Available = 4)	$6
Deathstick Shaman (Witch Doctor)	(Available = 1)	$8
Dirge Amplifier (Undying)	(Available = 3)	$6
Seadog's Stash (Clockwork)	(Available = 2)	$6

Diretide Collectors Cache II	Quantity	Price
Cursed Cryptbreaker (Pudge)	(Available = 2)	$6
Darkbrew's Transgression (Alchemist)	(Available = 2)	$6
Dawn of Darkness Foretold (Doombringer)	(Available = 1)	$8
Grand Suppresor (Silencer)	(Available = 1)	$8
War Rig Eradicators (Techies)	(Available = 1)	$8
Withering Pain (Boneclinkz)	(Available = 1)	$8
Rare: Grudges of the Gallows Tree (Treant Protector)	(Available = 3)	$15
Rare: Brands of the Reaper (Anti-Mage)	(Available = 1)	$30

Summer 2023 Collectors Cache	Quantity	Price
Ancestral Heritage (Jakiro)	(Available = 3)	$4
Astral Herald (Dawnbreaker)	(Available = 2)	$6
Beast of Thunder (Storm Spirit)	(Available = 3)	$4
Crescent Huntress (Spectre)	(Available = 4)	$4
Darkwood Eulogy (Death Prophet)	(Available = 3)	$4
Dezun Viper (Dazzle)	(Available = 2)	$6
Primeval Abomination (Primal Beast)	(Available = 2)	$6
Sea Spirit (Kunka)	(Available = 3)	$4
Spectral Shadow (Abaddon)	(Available = 1)	$8
Taur Rider (Alchemist)	(Available = 4)	$4
Tomo'Kan Footsoldier (Hoodwink)	(Available = 1)	$6
Triumph of the Imperatrix (Legion Commander)	(Available = 2)	$6
Tyrant of the Veil (Wraith King)	(Available = 3)	$4

Don't Miss Out on AeroGarden's Amazing Sales!
Take advantage of our special Memorial Day Sale at AeroGarden! From May 20th to May 31st, you can enjoy incredible savings:

• Spend $50 and save 5%
• Spend $100 and save 10%
• Spend $150 and save 15%

This is the perfect opportunity to start your indoor garden or expand your current setup. With AeroGarden, you can enjoy the benefits of fresh, home-grown produce all year long.

What Is AeroGarden?

AeroGarden is not your typical garden. It’s a compact, soil-free hydroponic system designed for indoor use. Whether you live in a bustling city apartment or a cozy suburban home, AeroGarden allows you to grow a variety of plants effortlessly. Here’s why it’s unlike any other garden:

1. Year-Round Growing: With AeroGarden, the seasons don’t matter. You can cultivate fresh produce all year long, regardless of the weather outside. Say goodbye to the limitations of traditional outdoor gardening.
2. Soil-Free Technology: AeroGarden uses hydroponics, which means your plants grow in water enriched with essential nutrients. No messy soil, no weeding—just pure growth.
3. Customizable Sizes: AeroGarden offers various models to fit your space. From compact countertop versions to larger units, there’s an AeroGarden for every kitchen.
4. Always Fresh, Always in Season: Imagine plucking basil leaves for your pasta sauce minutes before dinner or harvesting crisp lettuce for your salad. AeroGarden ensures freshness at your fingertips.

How Does AeroGarden Work?

1. Seed Pods: AeroGarden comes with pre-seeded pods containing a variety of herbs, vegetables, or flowers. Simply insert them into the designated slots.
2. Water and Nutrients: The system’s reservoir provides water and nutrients to the plants. The hydroponic method ensures efficient absorption, promoting rapid growth.
3. LED Grow Lights: AeroGarden’s energy-efficient LED lights mimic natural sunlight, allowing your plants to thrive. You can adjust the light intensity based on the plant’s needs.
4. Smart Controls: Some models feature smart controls, allowing you to monitor water levels, adjust light schedules, and receive reminders for pruning and harvesting.

AeroGarden Products
AeroGarden offers a variety of indoor gardening systems, including:

• AeroGarden Sprout: This is a great option for beginners, as it is small and easy to use. It can grow up to 3 plants at a time.
• AeroGarden Harvest 2.0: This is a mid-sized system that can grow up to 6 plants at a time. It features a detachable LED grow light and a dark grow deck to help prevent algae growth.
• AeroGarden Harvest XL: This is a larger system that can grow up to 6 plants at a time. It is a good option for those who want to grow a variety of herbs and vegetables.
• AeroGarden Bounty: This is the largest AeroGarden system, and it can grow up to 9 plants at a time. It is a good option for those who want to grow a lot of food, or for those who want to grow larger plants, such as tomatoes and peppers.

Redwave TFD zip up hoodie size xs
Classic vetements piece, top batch, very heavy and amazing quality. Brand new
Pics: https://imgur.com/a/RgUlrRq
Price: £140 shipped in the uk (+£10-£15 for EU shipping depending on the country and +£20 for mainland US)
"paypal invoice only" open to offers etc. Reliable seller with many sales and vouches
Dm me as no comments on this sub

Hi all, as the title states - I am looking for feedback on my pay plan. I've worked at a large new and used Subaru dealer in MA for the past 2 years. Our current pay plan is as follows:
\ 100% commission based with some bonus opportunities from the dealer and manufacturer, no hourly/base pay **

• $200 mini on new/used, or 20% front end profit after they take $1,000 pack off the top (uncapped)
• after you sell and deliver 15 for the month, you get an extra $30 retroactive
• if your survey scores from the new cars (survey sent from manufacturer) scores remain at 95% (any return below 9/10 tears your score down drastically) you get an extra $850 for the month (from my dealership)
• once you have 3 new cars for the month, the manufacturer pays $70 per new car, and if your survey scores are high enough you get an extra $50 per new car (total of $120)
• our BDC department is oddly structured as a management position here rather than an entry level position (everyone in the role was previously a sales person as well). We call it the INT department, basically internet sales. Their department works with customers over email/text/phone calls (not in person) for scheduling test drives, they also follow up on every lead from online traffic (sales people do not have access to any online leads, we can only meet a customer by answering the phone, greeting a fresh customer when they arrive to the dealership, or by referral from a previous customer). However, if BDC collects a deposit on a vehicle and then hands the deal off to a sales person (the sales person is then responsible for getting all paperwork/insurance info/trade appraisal completed, and once the vehicle is registered we then spend about 60 mins going over each and every button and feature in the car with the customer...) I expect to be with a INT handoff customer about 4-5 hours all-in-all in most circumstances - and my commission is capped on every BDC handoff to $200 - even if there was $7,000 profit after they took their $1,000 pack off the top.

Right now, just about every single car leaving the lot is a $200 mini... we are selling new cars below employee pricing, and I don't think I've hit 15 once so far this year - it's been very rough to say the least. We have no receptionist at our dealership, which means that us sales people are responsible for answering/redirecting all incoming phone calls, as well as taking messages for others. We are also responsible for stocking in new vehicles, snow removal, writing online car descriptions (that one is funny to me because it seems like a task more designated for the INT team, but who am I to decide that?), and so many more tasks that most other dealerships have other employees to take care of. I am feeling so much frustration because management has been promising us for more than 6 months that volume is expecting to be ramping up and it hasn't - if anything, it's been steadily slower and yet they have hired two new sales people (14 of us total now). I am only paid for the vehicle I sell and I feel the work here is not matching the compensation. Hell, even when the market was "great" I did not even clear $7,500 for a 5 week month delivering 18 cars.
I absolutely LOVE my coworkers, and I really do look up to my GSM and SM's - they have taught me so much and do so every day, however they aren't paying my bills. If things do not change NOW, I will lose everything my apartment, my car - it's not like I'm not putting in the hours and the hard work. My closing ratio is high and my surveys/reviews are excellent - the traffic is horrifically low, and its like another slap in the face blowing every deal out to a mini on top of it. I feel as though they are expecting sales people to take the hit and ride out the slow market, all while higher-ups are reaping volume bonus incentives.
I guess my question here is: what is your pay plan like? what are your thoughts on mine? can you give me any advice? thank you in advance for reading all of this, and I really do appreciate any and all feedback. wishing you all a busy and prosperous May!