I have some triangular woolen ponchos/shawls and I’m trying to put them away for the season. I’m assuming the basic way is to figure out how to make it a rectangle first and go from there? I love her videos though 🤗.
Got rid of some clothes today on next door trying to kondo my closet today 🧹🧹🧹

Does anyone have any tips on the process of designing clothes? A woman who comes to use the computer room where I volunteer found a doll in the street. It's a little fabric doll, like a human beanie baby, or a claw machine prize. The head wasn't very well attached and sort of flops around, so she asked me to sew it on tighter.
I'd like to make it some clothes as well, but I've never done any sewing that hasn't followed a pattern. I bought some squares of fabric at Michael's, and I think I can do a skirt with a snap closure and a bit of a elastic pretty easily, but all I can think of for a shirt is sort of like a poncho with snaps down the sides. Basically, a rectangle with a cut and seamed hole for the head.
If it were a Barbie, there would be tons of patterns, but she's not.

Hi there!
I make this post to share my hammocking experience in a short winter hike: Via degli Dei. It is a well known italian trail, from Bologna to Florence, crossing the Apennines.
A good part of the gear I brought is crafted by myself, as I quickly got into MYOG after embracing ultralight philosophy. A nice advantage of MYOG is that you can keep an eye on the expenses while experimenting with materials and trying to reduce the weight.

Backpack

A simple and light pack, built with EPLX 200 and Ultragrid. Around 34L of volume and weighting 330g (11.6 oz). I am super satisfied with it, but I am already looking forward to getting into the next iteration, with small adjustments (mainly regarding straps design).

Hammock

A spacious yet light netless hammock, built using Monolite 1.0. Width is 160cm (63") and length is 340cm (more than 11'), weight is 223g (around 8oz). I used only whoopie slings as suspension (27g, 1oz), while protecting tree bark with dead branches.
This hammock is very comfortable, but maybe for the next winter adventures I will use a less breathable fabric.

Tarp

This is another experiment of mine: a 4x3m (13'x10') rectangle polycro tarp. I am absolutely satisfied with polycro, which is surprisingly resistant to wind pressure and extremely light (438g, 15oz). Yet the dimension 4x3 is too big in my opinion, and in general polycro does not make storm-proof tarps. Nonetheless, it kept me dry during the first night (icy rain and light snow) and well protected from a strong wind during the second night.
For future trips, I will use either a smaller polycro tarp (made following the measures of Dutch's Asym Tarp) for favorable weather, or a sturdier silpoly tarp for adverse conditions.

UnderQuilt

I tried to push to its limits the UQ: a 3/4 one with Apex 167 insulation. It is a small UQ but it covers me well. I was a little bit cold one night, as we got down to around -7 C (19F), and I wished I brought the emergency blanket I usually use to boost the UQ performance. Still, I am very surprised by the insulation provided by the Apex 167, as I was in much colder temperatures than the commonly rated ones (notice: I am a very warm sleeper and I slept with all my layers on).

TopQuilt

Cumulus Taiga 250: just amazing. It kept me perfectly warm.

Cutting down weight

I could have further reduced the weight with these easy improvements:

• a lighter 10k powerbank instead of the current heavy 24k one
• a lighter (and warmer) down UQ, which will be my next MYOG project
• the lighter (and smaller) polycro tarp (only 134g, 4.7oz), given the quite calm weather I found. Or a DCF tarp, spending a lot of money
• lighter gaiters, I took the ones I found at home without too much optimisation
• swapping the emergency poncho and the wind jacket for a good gore-tex jacket, spending some money
• swapping night wool socks with apex booties, which are on my MYOG projects list
• swapping the heavy boots for GTX shoes, which I already ordered and didn't arrive in time.

If you have comments, ideas, questions, feel free! Here is the lighterpack of this trip:
https://lighterpack.com/zuu7ex

When I was planning my Camino, I loved looking at people's packing lists and commentary on what they wish they'd left behind, are glad they brought, etc. I also really appreciated seeing what kind of clothing other people brought. So I figured I'd do the same.
Things to know about me: I'm a 44-year-old American woman. I'm on the smallish side. I loathe being cold; it makes me sleepy. I have a few minor health etc. issues (allergies, eczema, heartburn, ADHD). I dye my hair purple. I wear dresses/skirts and leggings every day even at home, because that's just what I find the most comfortable.
I did the Frances this last April and May, leaving St. Jean Pied de Port on April 20th and arriving in Santiago on May 27th.
My backpack: From REI, the women's "Trail 40 Pack." As the name implies it says it's 40L, but I'm not actually sure that's accurate? It was perfectly fine. I didn't have any issues with it. I didn't use a water bladder with it, but you can.
Trekking poles: I got these in St. Jean Pied de Port, they were Leki brand. I loved them so much I had them shipped home when I was done.
Rain poncho: A rather light-weight brightly-colored one from amazon (brand says Anyoo) that could double as a tarp or shelter if necessary. I spent a little extra to get one that was truly waterproof and weighed a little less--it shed rain VERY well, even in downpours the day after Zubiri. I think I used it about three times? I didn't want to bring a separate rain jacket and pants. It also meant I didn't have to bring the backpack cover. Sun hat: Columbia sportswear. I wore that thing so much I'm surprised I didn't accidentally wear it to bed. Every time I went to mass I'd realize I was still wearing it, oops. Gloves: fairly thin wool ones. I think I wore them maybe twice? Wool Buff: I used it as a headband, ear warmehat, and eye mask for sleeping. Definitely one of the best things I brought! Silk scarf: A few months before I left, I saw a silk scarf on etsy that was my favorite shade of lavender and printed with a pattern of sea shells, including scallops. It was a long rectangle instead of a big square, which limits its usefulness. BUT it made me feel pretty, and it did keep my neck warm and protected from the sun, and when I wasn't wearing it I tied it to my backpack a bit like a flag, and it weighed almost nothing. I still wear it all the time. Four pairs of synthetic undies with a leak-proof pantiliner: by the brand Knix, since that's what I wear at home. I did do a "wash in the sink/hang overnight" test to make sure they dry fast enough. Two pairs liner socks: Coolmax by Injiji. Ehhhhh I probably could have skipped these. They didn't help with my blisters because mine were almost entirely pinch blisters. They *were* handy for walking around town in flip-flops, both for warmth and to keep people from seeing how beat-up my feet were! Two pairs wool-blend hiking socks: I bought Darn Tough. They were awesome. I still wear them almost daily--they're comfy and they can really take some abuse. One pair leggings: Synthetic, with big side pockets. Got these from REI on clearance. I was able to get them in my fave color, lavender. One pair black shorts: also from REI, same line. They also had the big side pockets. I wore them on hot days, I wore them as pj bottoms, I wore them the once I went swimming. One pair warm fleece-lined pants: Not gonna lie, these took up a TON of space in my backpack. They were also nearly 11oz/300g. BUT. Boy was I glad to have them. They were great for chilly mornings/evenings. I could put them on over my leggings when starting out on a cold day, or wear them by themselves in the evening while my other clothes were drying. Two bras: Both from the brand Kindred Bravely, the style Nellie, which is in synthetic fabric and doesn't have an underwire but does have the hooks in the back and enough support for walking. One bra was black so it could double as a swim top. One long-sleeved dress: From the brand wool&, the Rowena. It's a wool blend and has pockets. One short-sleeved dress: This one was by Smartwool and again was a wool blend, but it pilled like crazy. Next time I'd just wear another wool& dress in a short-sleeved style and a different color. One short-sleeved shirt: Uniqlo, from their airism line. I think I only wore it to sleep in. One pullover-style long-sleeved hoodie: A synthetic hoodie that was REALLY soft but thick. In retrospect I should've gone for a lightethinner one. Puffer jacket: This was my Christmas present to myself the Christmas before my Camino, as it was not cheap. I got it from Icebreaker, and the stuffing is 80% wool. It weighs almost nothing and compresses into its own pocket. It's incredibly warm for how little it weighs. I still wear this all the time! Crocs: I bought the same size I'd been wearing around the house at home. Turns out my feet swell more than expected, which made these press painfully on my blisters, and within four days I'd tossed them into a donation box and bought flip-flops. Next time I might bring Chacos or something similar that I can hike in sometimes. Boots: I can hear half of you now--wear trail runners!! I used to do a job that involved walking outside all day in the city and suburbs. I sprained my ankles multiple times in trail runners. I do not sprain my ankles in hiking boots (or Chacos, oddly enough). They were Hokas, and meant to feel like trail runners. The blisters were not the boots' fault. Also, I had Birkenstock orthotics in these. The combo of squishy shoes with ankle support and Birkenstock orthotics is the only thing my feet seem to like. Though again, I might try Chacos next time. Massage ball: a bumpy plastic ball. Didn't weigh much. Great for massaging my feet at the end of the day. I also lent it out to numerous people at albergues. Brierley guidebook: I did use the Wise Pilgrim app a LOT, but I really liked having the physical guidebook as well. I sometimes wrote notes on things I wanted to do/places I wanted to stay in the guidebook Paper journal and pen: I didn't journal as much as I intended to. But it was nice to have a spot to write things down by hand. I also had a print-out of the order for Mass in English and Spanish side-by-side that I'd taped into the journal--I'm Episcopalian and not Catholic, and I don't speak much Spanish. (I also looked up the daily readings for mass in English on my phone.)
A bunch of slider-style ziploc bags in numerous sizes: for organizing my belongings, including some extras. They were (imho) less noisy than stuff sacks or packing cubes, but they weren't silent. They also had the advantage of being see-through. I also had a net lingerie bag for dirty clothing.
USB-C wall charger with European plug Short USB-C-to-lightning charging cable for phone Portable battery (and cable): USB-C is faster than normal USB. The portable battery aka power bank was by Zendure and could charge my phone several times. What I'd usually do is charge the battery when I got to my albergue, and then use that to charge my phone when I went to bed. It meant I didn't have to leave my phone anywhere out of sight, and I was never worried about my phone dying.
Compressible daypack: This compressed to a tiny tiny thing that hooked on my backpack. I used this thing DAILY: I would put everything in it to take my shower and do laundry, then resort my belongings to go explore the town and/or find dinner and/or go to mass. I also used it the couple of times I had my backpack transported.
A carabinehook: Cannot remembefind the brand name on this, but it's this thing that converts from a carabiner to a rubber-lined S-hook (so it'll stay over the back of shower doors etc). I ended up keeping my sleeping bag on the outside of my backpack, but the stuff sack didn't have any straps, and the carabiner meant I could use the backpack's straps at the bottom and tighten them down enough to keep the sleeping bag there; and then at the albergues I'd use it to hang my daypack on the back of shower doors.
Toiletries:
Fancy zippered toiletry bag: in retrospect it was too small. I ended up only leaving things I rarely used in it, and putting everything else in a ziploc Sunscreen: kept this in an outside pocket of my backpack Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss: The same things I use at home. I'm picky about my toothpaste. Bar soap in a dry bag: The fancy dry bag was supposed to make it so the soap dried out during the day, but no matter what I did that didn't work. But also I left it somewhere (Viana??) and went back to a ziploc bag anyway! Aquaphor: a thick vaseline-based ointment, great for a ton of things Travel towel: I brought a large-ish one, thinking it would double for other things (like a blanket?), and I never used it that way. I should've bought something smaller and lighter. Washcloth Deodorant Comb, a few hair elastics Hard case for my glasses, and a small microfiber wipe for the lenses: on a related note, my glasses had transition lenses so I didn't have to bring a separate pair of sunglasses and risk losing them. Benadryl, immodium, Azo (painkiller for UTI's): a few of each, just in case Purple shampoo in a small travel bottle: I estimated how much I'd use washing my hair twice a week and it was plenty Purple hair conditioner bar: Also in a fancy dry bag that didn't dry it out lol A bunch of diaper pins with plastic heads: I read multiple people who suggested bringing these, and they were RIGHT. I never had to worry about the supply of clothespins at albergues. People were less likely to take my things by accident because they were distinctive. They ended up being useful for multiple things, like attaching items to my backpack during the day to dry. I also ended up setting one aside to pop blisters after dipping the point in Betadine gel. A few feet of paracord: for laundry when the albergue ran out of clothesline space, could theoretically use it to turn my poncho into a shelter if needed or tie around my waist over my poncho on a windy day. I only ever used it for laundry, as it turns out. Prescription-strength hydrocortisone cream: in case my eczema flared up or I got bitten by mosquitos. I was lucky enough not to need it but I was still glad to have it. Melatonin, Zyrtec, Heartburn meds: All my medications were put in tiny plastic ziplocs along with the torn-out box label so I could tell which was which. Tampons and a few pads: I wish I'd brought more pads, honestly. The ones in Spain all seemed scented and didn't have enough glue! (I can't use menstrual cups. I used to, for like twenty years, but now they cause irritation.) Mascara, powder, lipstick: Despite wearing these every single day at home, I never ended up using them on my Camino!
Sleeping bag: a summer weight bag from LL Bean. Not too heavy or too expensive. Silk liner: I used this all of twice and I hated it. Totally could've skipped this. It just slid around inside the bag and twisted around me, ugh. Earplugs: I brought along my fave Loop earplugs, and accidentally left them at my albergue in Uterga. They're comfy and work great, but in all honesty my bluetooth earbuds and ocean sounds from an app blocked out snoring better.
A photocopy of the first pages of my passport and a list of emergency contact numbers: tucked into the bottom of my backpack.
In my fanny pack/hip bag, which never left my sight waking or sleeping:
Phone: actually this was usually in my leggings pocket. Bluetooth earbuds, the kind on a leash: they recharged using the same cable as the portable battery, which was nice Bank cards: in a small zippered pouch A few days' worth of cash: in the same pouch as the Wise card Credencial, passport and vaccine card: in a ziploc Lip balm with SPF Aleve aka naproxen sodium ADHD medication: this was the only medication that wasn't labeled in the little ziploc bag. When I brought it on my flight I had the ziploc in the original prescription bottle. The night I arrived in France, I tucked the original bottle in the bottom of my backpack, and put the baggie in my fanny pack. Rosary, and a small leaflet on how to pray it: I ended up mostly wearing the rosary. It was intended to be worn as a bracelet wrapped around my wrist several times, but I mostly kept it around my neck. It didn't obviously look like a rosary.
What I did for water: bought bottled water along the way. I'd refill the bottles for a week or to and toss the bottles once they got nasty and buy new ones. This just weighed less than the alternatives.
The weight of my backpack, at the airport on the way out, was about 15lb/6.8kg. I was aiming for somewhere between 10-15% of my bodyweight, and I succeeded, hell yeah.
Things I wish I'd brought:
Things to treat blisters. I thought I wouldn't get any because I didn't on my training hikes. Turns out there's a difference between walking ten miles once a week, and walking thirteen miles day after day after day. (I mean I also walked to work, two miles each way. But still. I needed more days of longer distances that repeated.) One of those things to clip hand disinfectant to my backpack or fanny pack. WAY too many bathrooms did not have soap, even in the albergues. Knitting! At the end of my day's walk I sometimes spent far too much time fucking around on my phone, which makes one look anti-social. Whereas knitting invites people to talk to you. I ended up buying a sock-weight yarn and needles in Leon (the added weight was around 150g total) and starting a simple shawl.
I'm more than happy to answer any questions on why I chose to bring/not bring anything!

Thanks to u/SpacePaladin15 for the universe and allowing fanfics to flourish!
This story originated from when I posted this drawing and people seemed to like the concept of a wild west-themed NoP story.
Also check out my other story - Roaming!
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Memory transcription subject: Officer Duno, Krakotl Alliance Command
Date [standardized human time]: October 19th, 2136
North to the sign, west to the mall.
I made sure to keep track of everything around us, motivated to keep myself useful as the distinctly less-valuable half of our duo at the moment. Riding down the road, it was very quickly clear what Kim was talking about. The road was so uneven that we barely spent any time actually riding over it, just using the crumpled and warped asphalt remains as a guideline. On either side of the road, we saw houses - that is, what’s left of them. I kept watch for signs of movement from any of the toppled structures, but unsurprisingly, there wasn’t any. It seems like the ridgeline of plateaus surrounding Kim’s house was the only thing keeping it from meeting the same fate.
I quickly came to appreciate how lucky it was that Alben and I managed to get on the good side of the only access to basic modern luxuries in this whole region. Everything else is just shockwave fodder. I checked on Alben. He hasn’t so much as looked like he’s had to change his stride this whole time, which eased my guilt surrounding the arrangement. His eyes, though, looked wary.
“Alben? How are you holding up?”
“I’m fine. It’s really no bother.”
“That’s good to hear, but I mean emotionally. You look worried.”
“…I want to know what happened with the fight. Kim told you not to embellish it, like it was your fault or something.”
I sighed. His perception was dead-on. “It was.”
“What!? Why would you attack a predator? He told us he’d kill us if we gave him a reason!”
“…He called me dumb.”
Alben physically craned his neck to look at me for the first time since we began speaking, like I’d just grown two more heads. “What, that’s it? Duno, this is our lives you’re putting on the line! Are you a fawn!?”
I wanted to recoil away from Alben in shame, but there wasn’t really any way to do that while literally being on his back. “Look, I just… had to put up with way too much of that phrase for my whole life. Alben, you’re strong. You’re perceptive. Travelers, you’re a war hero now. You basically have a fast-track to any position in the whole fleet if we ever get out of here. I’ve been with the Alliance for seventeen of my twenty-five years I’ve been alive, and the closest I’ve gotten to being a captain is right now, with the vessel’s pieces scattered across space. This is the most streamlined damn promotion I’ve gotten in all my years with the Alliance. Everything else was just ‘Sorry, you don’t have a strategical mind, Duno.’ ‘You’re doing such a good job on weapons; it’d be a shame to tear you away from it, Duno.’ ‘Sorry, we don’t need a fucking idiot at the helm, Duno.’“
I sighed. “I know I shouldn’t have gotten so fired up, but hearing it here, on the Humans’ planet, lightyears from Federation culture… it just felt like there wasn’t a single place in the entire universe where I could be judged fairly.”
A silence followed, until Alben broke it. “…I don’t think you’re stupid.”
I let myself settle back down into the saddle, then patted Alben’s shoulder. “Thank you.”
We rode along in silence for a bit longer, following the lone yellow sign piercing the sky. It’s a good thing that Suleans are so adept at climbing steep inclines, because the straight-shot route to the sign was anything but smooth. Frankly, even if I wasn’t suffering the consequences of my own actions right now, I probably would’ve had to ask for Alben’s help to scale the rough terrain.
Finally, we crested a hill overlooking the gas station. It seems it, too, was spared the full brunt of the bombing via the surrounding terrain. I wondered how the sign was still standing, given that it extended high above the hills, but I guess when you put something that high up, you make it as resilient and low-maintenance as possible.
As I was looking up at the sign, I was caught off-guard by Alben retreating a few steps and ducking down. Clearly he saw something that spooked him, but I didn’t get to see. Regardless, I kept my voice down, just in case. “Alben? What is it?”
“Humans. There are several of them down at the gas station.”
“Do you think they saw us?”
“No, I think we’re good.”
I lowered my ears to not be too visually obvious, before peeking over the hill. “Several” is right. Five humans, all armed, and adorned with orange highlights, were seemingly messing with the pump, trying to get gas. Between that sight and the sign not being illuminated, it was safe to assume that the whole area was without power.
“I think we should go check out the grocery store first, and maybe circle back if it looks clear.”
“Yeah, that sounds like a good idea.” With that, Alben stood, and we took the long way around the gas station, being careful to avoid line of sight with it. Alben’s routing took us past some signage, and he seemed confident in his ability to find the strip mall. His confidence was rewarded, as we came up on a huge parking lot. It had very few cars in it, with one of the particularly top-heavy ones being on its side.
“Which one do you think the grocery store is?” Alben slowed down, assessing the assortment of shops.
“Probably the big one in the middle?”
“That one just says ‘Ralph’s.’”
“Sure, maybe Ralph is generous, I guess. Wait, you can read human?”
“I-“ Alben was cut off by a car window next to us getting shattered, accompanied by the unfortunately now-familiar noise of a human firearm. Alben didn’t wait for a cue to scamper around to the other side of the car, with me sliding off so we could stay low.
“Hey! That fucker has Alex’s hat and poncho!” I heard the gruff sounds of a human voice. As much as this one was still deeper than most I’d ever hear, after being around Kim for some time, this one just sounded like a squeaky bastard by comparison. I guess I got my wish. I put a paw on Alben’s shoulder in solidarity, then drew my pistol. I moved to peek my head from cover, but bullets started pelting our position, as other humans clearly were joining in on the first one’s rage. Paying attention to the frequency of the shots, I got the idea it was the band from the gas station.
“Dammit, I need a visual.” I grumbled under my breath, not really expecting anything to come of it. Not too long after, I heard the sound of cracking plastic, turning to see Alben rending the car’s mirror from its side. He managed to snap it off, and handed it to me. With the mirror taking all the risk on my behalf, I got a read on the incoming force. Sure enough, it’s five humans, adorned with orange. With how few cars there are in the lot, they were far from the nearest cover. I blind-fired some shots over my head to make space, and watched them scatter through the mirror.
I noticed that one of them had stayed in place, going prone to be a smaller target. The other humans were preoccupied with finding cover, so I peeked out and lined up a shot on the one left behind. Compressing the trigger, I heard the crack of his skull being propelled downward into the pavement. Four left.
I heard the humans all start shouting over each other, with a cacophony of anger, fear, and surprise being unimportant background noise to the task at hand. Rounds resumed their pelting of our position, from the moment the first human to reach cover could start shooting. Midway through the first human’s magazine, a second human started firing. There wasn’t going to be a break for as long as they had ammo.
At least, that was the thought, until the rounds stopped in time with the humans finally going silent. Warily, I grabbed the mirror again and held it up, only to be met with a human right in front of me. Panicking, I fired off a shot as soon as I could line up anything remotely in the right direction, stunning the human with a round in the leg. In my periphery, I saw a second human had rounded the corner on Alben. They had somehow silently coordinated a pincer maneuver.
I needed to help Alben. I hammer-fanned a shitload of rounds into the human in front of me. It doesn’t matter - it doesn’t need to be clean. It screamed in pain. Whatever; that’s its problem. I redirect my attention to Alben, hearing automatic fire going off. To my relief, Alben was the one pinning down the human, with it squirming underneath him, just holding the trigger of its weapon. Alben stomped. I heard him crying.
“Stay down! Please just stay down!” He stomped down on the human repeatedly, clearly taking absolutely no joy in it. I got around him and executed the human myself, just to spare Alben from it. Even I hadn’t had to experience the torment of killing with melee. He doesn’t deserve to dirty his paws like that. When he realized it was done, he let himself fall back against the car. I turned back to the human groaning next to me, and put it down, too. Two left.
I pulled out the mirror again, and I saw a human aim straight at me through it. Before I could react, the human dropped dead, with an accompanying pop from in front of me. The last one, realizing it was alone, did the first sensible action I’ve seen any of these belligerent humans do, and scampered off. I turned to check who the new shooter was, seeing a rifle barrel emerging from the shattered front windows of “Ralph’s” store..
“Thank you?” I shouted out to the rifleman in the store, assuming they were taking our side.
“Put your gun down, now!” I heard a gruff voice return, not unlike Kim’s, except it was far less charged with venom, for how aggressive its order seemed to be. I didn’t want to escalate the situation, but I didn’t yet have a reason to leave myself completely defenseless. I nudged Alben to take cover on the other side of the car, to occlude himself from the new threat. He got the picture, and I attempted to draw the rifleman’s attention by slowly holstering my gun, so at least Alben was safe.
I had more of a read on humans now than the last time the two of us were forced to negotiate from behind cover of a car, so I tried to opt for reason to start. “Pardon us, sir! We’re just-”
“Shut up! L-leave!” Despite him interrupting me, I could almost take his declaration as a de-escalation. This human is unnerved and unsure. I wouldn’t have previously thought that to be enough motivation for me to put myself at risk, but for now, I decided to continue speaking.
“-We’re just having a look around the area. We mean you no harm.”
“You-!” The human started to shout at me again, but his attention was taken away by something else in the store, cutting him off. He walked a little deeper into the store, giving me a sidelong glance, before coming back to face me, sighing. “...can you repeat that?”
“Uh, okay. We’re just having a look around and we mean you no harm.”
The human looks behind himself, then back to me. “Louder.”
“We’re just looking around and we mean you no harm!”
The human looked behind himself again. “What are you looking for?”
“Anything useful, I guess. Is that a grocery store?”
The human looked away again. I thought for a second that he was turning his head to get his ear to face me, but he was doing it reactively instead of proactively. “Yes, this is a grocery store.”
“Are you the owner of it?”
Another turn. “Yes, I am the owner of the grocery store.”
I thought the human’s answer was a bit weird, being more elaborate than necessary, as if he needed to remind himself what concepts were at play.
“So, do you mind if my partner and I take a look around?” The human looked behind himself again, but I decided to calm his nerves before he responded. “I respect your property, but I imagine that you’ll have more than you can make use of in there.”
As I tacked on the second sentence, the human’s head jerked back to me, before jerking behind himself again. Whatever was drawing his attention at least had the effect of calming him down.
“Can you repeat that?”
“We want to look around. I respect your property but think you’ll have more than you can eat. You know, perishables? Maybe some stuff you don’t like the taste of?”
The human retreated a bit deeper into the store again, out of sight, before emerging again. “Okay, you can look around, just… give me a second to… lock away the earnings.”
“Oh, we don’t need human money. It’s fi-”
“JUST! …stay there. I’ll come get you.” The human’s panicked demeanor was still confusing, but he seemed to be turned to some kind of benevolence. He dipped into the store again, so I took the opportunity to check on Alben. Rounding the car, I found him peering over it, clearly not feeling threatened. He ended up being the one to speak first.
“How’d you do that?”
“What, reason with him?”
“Yeah, I guess. He seemed ready to shoot you at the start.”
“Well, I guess after meeting nine whole other humans in the exact same way, you pick up on a thing or two.”
Alben seemed to mill it over in his head. Even I hadn’t thought about that until now. Every other human we’ve seen since crashing has also aimed a gun at us at least once. The three men, then Kim, then the five today. “I guess so. Do you think we can trust him?”
“Not really. I don’t think he’ll go out of his way to be any more courteous than he is now by letting us look around. I’m guessing that he’s just aiming to make it so we aren’t on his bad side. Appeasement.”
I heard some movement from inside the grocery store, along with what sounded like the human… whimpering? My translator didn’t register any meaning, but the human was seemingly making noise. I thought for a second I should check on him, but I don’t think going against his wishes while he’s in a fragile state of mind would end well for anyone involved. As we waited, Alben got up from behind the car. Rounding it to my side, he knelt down. It took me a second to catch on.
“Oh, I should be fine walking around the grocery store, but thank you.”
“Are you sure? You’re standing like you’ve needed to take a crap for the past few minutes.”
I took note of my own odd posture that I’d subconsciously slipped into to not agitate any bruises, and corrected it to stand normally upright. Upon doing so, I immediately felt a jolt of pain and flopped backward. Thankfully, humans - for whatever reason - had small, useless patches of grass interlaced with this parking lot, saving me from worsening my injuries. All Alben had to do was look at me for the two of us to get the picture, and I accepted his help. Swinging my leg over his back and feeling him rise, I felt safe again. This arrangement allowed me to tower higher than I ever normally would, all while having my forepaws free. It was… empowering.
The human re-emerged from the store, holding a datapad with his rifle strapped to his back. He seemed to scratch his ear, before addressing us. “O-okay, you can come look around now.”
Alben looked to me for reassurance, and at my nod, we headed in. The entire glass front of the store was seemingly blown out by the shockwave that swept the area, so Alben took care not to spend too long dawdling around the broken glass. Walking past the human, I made sure to train an eye on him at all times. He fiddled with his datapad a little, before catching up. “Okay, I have the uh… inventory records, so, if you see anything that catches your eye, just ask me, and I’ll uh… cross-reference it.”
“Okay. As I said, we’re just looking around. We don’t have much cargo space today, so we probably won’t take much.”
The three of us started our scan of the store, with the human lagging behind, transfixed with his datapad. As we came up on the fresh produce, I signaled to Alben to stop. “There’s a lot of perishable stuff here. I don’t think you’ll be able to eat it all before it goes bad.”
The human finally looked up from his datapad, then back to it. “Uh, can you speak up?”
“There’s a lot of perishables and I don’t think you can eat them all!” I tried not to over-correct, but I was starting to get a bit annoyed with this human, raising my voice more than probably necessary. It took another odd pause for him to reply.
“Yes! Yes, the perishables. There should be plenty to spare for… most of them.”
Alben and I spent some time perusing each of the terran fruits on display, referring to the store owner for details about them, and even trying a few to get a good foundation for the human’s descriptions, where he would liken the fruit to the traits of another. These descriptions, too, were hard-fought for, with constant repetition, waiting, and borderline shouting to get a single useful sentence out of the human. In our scan, we came up on another fruit, advertised with idyllic pictures of its green rind serving as a cradle for yellowish-orange sliced cubes. For the first time since the start of the excursion, the human actually spoke within a meaningful time frame.
“No, not that one.”
“Why not?”
A pause. “They’re my… my favorite. I like them a lot.” The human sounded like he was correcting himself, despite saying the right word.
“It still looks like there’s a ton of them, and they smell pretty sweet. May we try one?” Another annoying pause followed.
“Uhh… speak up?” This time, I finally noticed the little devices in the human’s ears. He has had his hearing willingly impeded this whole time, and he’s making me make up for it.
I huffed. “Can you just take out your stupid earbuds!? I’ve had to repeat just about every other sentence I’ve said. I wouldn’t have to shout so much.”
The human recoiled at my elevated tone, but still paused. He looked down at his datapad, and grimaced at something on it. “Uh… c-can you repeat that?”
“WHAT!? Is this not loud enough!?”
Pause. “N-no… it was… too loud. So uh… what were you saying before?”
I huffed. “Forget about it. Fine, we won’t touch the uhh…”
“-mangoes.” Alben finished my sentence, apparently able to read the labels.
The human, after a delay, let out a sign of relief, but still didn’t remove his earbuds. Knowing that the human was hard of hearing, I lowered my voice to talk to Alben. “I’m really getting tired of this human. We should speed this up.”
“Yeah, I don’t know what his deal is.”
To my surprise, the human cut in. Less surprising is what he said. “What was that?”
I raised my voice to address him again. “We’re just talking amongst ourselves. If you want to eavesdrop better, maybe remove your dumb earbuds.”
The human just seemed to clam up at my remark, on a delay, of course. Alben and I started moving again before waiting for his dumb brain to catch up, and he scurried to close the distance after it did. We moved to the shelved areas, taking stock of whatever snack foods he had. It turns out that most human meals involve some sort of flesh-eating or animal byproduct one way or another, so we turned pretty quickly to the everything else.
“Well, you see, for breakfast, we’ll usually go for some sort of bread thing or another - toast, bagels, english muffins, pop tarts, croissants, you name it, but most of that gets some sort of dairy put on it for taste, like butter, cream cheese, and frosting for the pop tarts. Cereal’s the most extreme version of that. I guess you two could do with some bread anyways. It’s good enough on its own. Funny story - some nations across the pond actually define some of our white bread as cake, in a legal sense. So, yeah, it’ll probably still be good.”
It was jarring, watching the human go on a tangent in his explanations. For all his brain lag and nervousness when actually conversing, he seemed incredibly comfortable with anything one-sided, throwing in jokes and cultural nuances like I’d actually expect an experienced member of a species to know. It was a far cry from the frantic mess that invited us inside. Yet, any time I asked any questions to keep him going, he went right back to pauses and repetitions. By the end, the brutally slow natural selection of our conversations led our interactions to becoming far more simplified, with me simply pointing at things I’d want explained.
What didn’t need explaining was the wall of stored flesh toward the end of the store’s familiar cyclical route. It was obvious for a predator species to have, but seeing it realized was jarring. If I’d been asked to imagine such a thing before, I probably could’ve - it’s organized just like any normal, civilized food would be - but seeing all of it being within arm’s reach was surreal. Looking ahead, it was clear that Alben was transfixed, too. He seemed to be cocking his head weirdly to the side to look at the arrangement, but it was still clear where his attention was.
The human seemed particularly nervous watching the two of us pass the flesh section, as if we’re the ones at risk of snapping to violence at any time around it. I didn’t think all humans were complete brutes - ironically, Kim had beaten that idea out of me - but something was definitely off with this one. The human noticed me staring at him and started craning his neck to look around, as if he was trying to find an exit. Luckily for him (and us), we were coming up on it. As we approached checkout, the human, who had been trailing behind, rushed to get ahead of us. He played it off as if he wasn’t doing anything, but it was obvious he wanted to physically impede us from going anywhere but the exit.
The excursion, while painful, was rather informative. Alben and I had a read on what sorts of human food weren’t laced with predator gruel, and what the owner would be willing to part with. Although I didn’t have a reason to confirm it, I also came to the conclusion that the human is very obviously hiding something. His eloquent speaking proved his intelligence, and his social skills weren’t completely moot, but he always had something off about him. I noticed him concealing the screen of his datapad for the entire time we were inside, and he deflected every request for him to remove his earbuds. I’ll corroborate my ideas with Alben once we’re out of earshot, but for now, I didn’t really have a reason to care. We’re here for food, and the human seems willing to give it.
Reaching the shattered glass front, I turned to address the human. “Alright, well, thank you for letting us take a look around. We’ll probably be back tomorrow with a cart or something. If you want human money for this, we can definitely scrounge some of that.”
Another pause. “Yes, it’s no problem. Thank you for… ‘dispatching’ those hooligans.”
“Right. See you tomorrow, uh… Hm. I don’t believe I caught your name?”
Pause. “Oh, I’m Ed Murphy.”
“Who’s Ralph?”
Pause. “That’s just the name of the store.”
“Alright, I guess. See you tomorrow, ‘Ed.’”
Pause. “See you tomorrow.”
Finally, Alben and I were dismissed. Heading back out into the parking lot, I had Alben stop by the deceased humans to search their bags. They, too, were stocked largely with dried flesh as a snack, but this time around, we decided to take it, for Kim’s sake. The dried food would probably last a good amount of time, and any food we could get for Kim freed up the vegetable side for us. In addition, I recognized that the ammunition some of them were carrying looked near identical to the rounds Kim was using in his pistol, so we took as much as could fit in the saddle bags. With running water still available at home, we only took a drink from the flasks on the spot, leaving the rest behind. The only other thing of note was their similar bifold/trifold rectangles with all the paper money in them, which we figured may be a good courtesy for Ed tomorrow.
Satisfied with our haul, we started heading home.
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4th wall here, Thanks to everyone who is coming along this Journey with me. I know these last few episodes were a bit of world building, but things should pick up soon. I promise 😉
For those new here, Welcome! Feel free to catch up from the beginning!
First- https://www.reddit.com/HFY/comments/16baslg/comment/jzc7fma/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3
Previous- https://www.reddit.com/HFY/comments/16kqfq4/the_black_ep21_family_reunion_p1_the_hall/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3
Next-https://www.reddit.com/HFY/comments/16ma5if/the_black_ep_23_void_shot/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Clint rubbed his eyes… and reached for his mug, only for him to find it empty. “Fuck… Elena, start the pot again, dark roast.” Clint grumbled, starting the coffee through the smart home system. He wasn’t sure what day it was, not even sure the week. He rose from the position he had fallen asleep in, checking his watch. 0352…. He stumbled twice as he slowly worked his way to the bathroom door. The motion activation triggered, and he swore again as the obnoxiously bright light flickered on overhead.
Finishing up, he washed and lumbered to the kitchen, scooping the pot of coffee out of its base triggering the auto pause feature in the brewing process. ‘The rest of the pot will taste like shit… but I need the kick’ he thought as he poured the half-done coffee into his cup. He knew that this deluded the rest of the pot. He didn’t care.
It’s had been a rough few days. Clint had just officially started working for LEAP. Unofficially he had been burning processing power trying to brute force some logic into the strange information in front of him. He had first noticed it two weeks after his brother went missing. He was on duty at the time in Houston stations OTC (orbital traffic control). He watched as the sensor grid keeping watch over Pandora received a massive burst of abnormal energy before failing completely, triggering a shutdown that played hell with the rest of his day. Two days later he reviewed the sensor logs… he found a discrepancy. The energy burst had only impacted a narrow bracket of arrays. these arrays neatly lined up with the emergency quantum beacon “light-house” , and the course that his brother had disappeared on. Clint had smuggled in a personal USB Q into the sensors server banks on break and pulled everything on the incident; including all the raw data that did the overloading in the first place.
Over a month later and he had gotten nowhere. On top of that, he had gotten caught, by his adoptive mother no less. The good news was that he now had access to the quantum computing core at LEAP headquarters… the bad news was, he had to leave Houston Station. He stretched…now he had to produce results. Clint wasn’t averse to hard work, but promising results without knowing if results are possible…. that was something else….
His computer chirped. It was the LEAP QSC on ceres. He opened the portal to remote in, browsing through his inbox. No other new messages appeared. He opened and decompressed the file. Bandwidth was precious to deep space facilities after all.
He was scanning the first sections when his eyes flew wide as he recognized what he was looking at. “Jesus Christ… it’s an algorithm…”
Clint shot-gunned the rest of his coffee ignoring its biting heat and quickly went to refill his cup. No sleep tonight, and possibly tomorrow. There was a reason that Clint had not been transferred to Ceres with the Admiral. She had not wanted prying eyes easily seeing what he was researching.
Clint first opened his E-mail, and sent a message to his adoptive mother and commanding officer in the obscure language She had taught him to stop casual prying ears.
It was a simple message:
“chan eil sinn nar n-aonar”
——————————————————————
“Heave her home boys..
Let her go boys..
swing her head ‘round into the weather…
Heave her home boys..
let her go boys!
Sailing homeward to Mingalay..”
Mac finish leading in another round of drinks and song. He had been translating some of earth’s ancient sailing songs on the fly most of the night to moderate success.
Most of the rest of the party goers had left. And Lyrian was laying on the beach beside him with her head on his lap. The Boys who were left finally started to get up.
“Get your wife home safe, my boy” said an older voids-man as they parted with clasped arms and newly learned ‘man hugs’. “You’re welcome ‘round the table any time”.
Mac had stopped drinking hours ago and had just been enjoying being around ‘old salts’ again. “Will do, It’s been fun” with that he started stroking Lyrians hair gently rousing her
“Hey love, let’s go home” he whispered to her as she stretched, looking groggily around. “Oh boy, you’re still drunk...” he chuckled. “And I don’t know how to fly the car.”
“Hmm… auto piluuut. Has.. autopiiiluut. Home.. s’ved” was all she got out. Mac scooped her up and headed for the main hall door. Martin was crashed out on the floor next to a slightly pudgy female. Tristen was nowhere to be found. Neither was Brayton. Doc Icario was slow dancing with his wife. He was humming a tune in time to their steps, as the band had long gone.
Mac poured Lyri into the back seat of the air-car then sat down in the combination drivers/pilots seat. He found the MFD and found the saved coordinates for home. The car hummed to life as he activated the autopilot and the car eased into the air and made for their lodge.
Lyri poked her head up between the seats momentarily, nodding at whatever made her think he had done it right. The curled back up on the back seat.
A few ‘minutes’ later, the car set itself down on the Landing platform of their house. Mac gently coaxed Lyri into his arms once more, opening the door and creeping up the stairs. He got her to bed then just flopped down and curled up to her little spoon and played big spoon.
They slept until the next afternoon.
——————————————————————
Pain….. but this kind of pain was an old friend… Mac groaned and rolled away from the window, covering his head with a pillow. He heard a whimper from next to him as Lyri stirred as well.
“I’m dying, the light is murdering me…” she whimpered softly into her pillow.
“Lets get you fixed up..” Mac whispered, as she winced at the sound. Mac trundled into after digging around in his seabag for a med scanner. He waved it over a couple of different items before finding one safe for Lyri.
“Start with this, then come down for breakfast” He said, still just above a whisper, as he broke an Aspirin in half and gave Lyri one piece and a little water. Mac himself took another 500mg of the stuff and trundled down to the kitchen. Luckily, They had requested the Kitchen get fully stocked before They arrived, So Mac picked out one of Lyri’s favorite fruits, one Delmar Tuber, and a few strips of the type of cloned meat that he had found came the closest to bacon. Grabbing a pan, he started with the meat. The thin strips cooked quickly, and he left their renderings in the pan as he set them aside to cool. He stirred in the sliced Tuber and covered it to let it cook while he sliced up the fruit. It wouldn’t quite be hash browns, but it would have to do until he could have a shredder made.
“You know, that’s supposed to be my job” came a mumble from across the counter behind him. Lyrian was semi functional again, the Aspirin beginning to take its effect.
Mac poured her a glass of water and handed it to her, “You’re a bit worse off than I am. I’m used to Hangovers. Drink this, It will help” She made a face as he poured a quarter of a packet of energy/electrolyte mix into the water and stirred it in. After her escapade of licking the packet early in their relationship; Mac had taken one of the packets to Doc Icario to make sure it was safe. It was close enough as long as she didn’t have to much caffeine, so a partial packet it was.
“Ugh, you know I hate this stuff..” she said, taking the glass from him.
“I know, but its got electrolytes safe for you. It will help with the headache. Bottoms up” He responded as he poured the rest into his own glass and stirred it in. The clinked it to her’s, “Slàinte” then he downed his own drink. Lyri looked at him in confusion before chugging her own glass with a cringe.
“That wasn’t English” she said, setting the glass on the counter and snagging a piece of fruit.
“No, it’s Gaelic. My Aunt was American by marriage, but Highland Scot by Blood. She taught us some of the old ways.” Mac explained.
“Teach me?” She asked.
“I guess but let’s get your English up to speed first. It will be more useful to you.” Mac said as he uncovered the pan and stirred the tuber. He re-covered it so that they could simmer a bit longer.
“What’s a ‘Scot’” Lyri asked after being poured more water. She leaned a hip up against the countertop and watched Mac finish up the food. It was afternoon, So breakfast for dinner was in order.
“Remember all those places I talked about when you were teaching me Delmar? Well, Humans don’t have just one language. We have several hundred. My Aunt Gwen was born and raised in Scottland. As was her brother who moved to America, My mom’s Grandfather.” Mac explained, finally pulling the ad hock ‘hash browns’ off the heating element and making up a pair of plates. Extra meat for him, extra fruit, and Tuber for Lyrian.
“Don’t, your people take the family name of the male?” she asked, taking the plate as they, both headed for the table.
“They do. However, I took my mother’s maiden name when they separated. I was mad at my dad. I only learned after that he had gotten a warning from the Terran Navy that his facility could be attacked.” he said sadly.
Breakfast done, Lyrian Shoo’d mac into the shower. She insisted on cleaning up.
Mac cranked on the steaming misting shower and stepped in and let It soak him to the bone. The bombardment slowly washing the last of his hangover away as he began to reach for his soa…”
He was interrupted by a pair of familiar arms around his waist…
Maruk was nervous. He was on official business this evening, but he disliked being this far out on the outskirts near Dusk. He stepped out of the Tram and started along the walkway to the newly constructed Lodge. Predator attacks were rare, but not unheard of this far away from Tribal Civilization; and Maruk’s head swiveled nervously from side to side as he made his way to the front door. He was about to touch the Chime when the door swung open and a Shorter Pink skinned Being opened it, “What Can I do for ya.” He asked in almost perfect Delmar. He was shirtless with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had no Natural Markings on him. His skin was pale pink, not the Auburn and Silver of the Delmar. He had no mane, but a growing Mop of short, damp brown hair on his head. His eyes were piercing, as if sizing him up. But his face had a friendly set to it.
“Uh.. Hi.. Um… Maruk.. my name is Maruk, I’m here on behalf of Clan Head Cluras. M.. May I come in?
“Mac, he’s a Courier for the Helyon Tribal leader. I recognize the uniform.” A female voice called from inside. This pale skinned being nodded
“Come in, take a seat in the ‘living room’. You will have to beg our pardon a moment, we just finished up a shower. He turned to the side, and Maruk was treated to a cavernous single story with a gorgeous female wrapped modestly in a towel waving him in.
“Take a seat, we will be down in a moment” She chimed and vanished into one of the upstairs rooms. This Mac bounded up the stairs, skipping several in each stride ‘what the fuck is he’ Maruk thought as he vanished in the same door. About a minute later they both emerge fully dressed. The female was in a Delmar Traditional Poncho, a black top and pants. The man was in an almost headache inducing brightly patterned shirt covered in plant designs he had not seen before.
“My apologies, Mr Maruk.” The man nodded and extended one hand as Maruk stood.
Maruk looked at the hand, then extended his own awkwardly before this Mac took it in his vice of a hand and shook it firmly once. “I am here to request a Mr…. *he looked at his wrist com’s screen* Mackenzie Grarzia to join Clan Head Darclemus at the Hall. He wishes to meet with you.
“Ah, I was wondering when this would happen.” Mac stood, “just me or is Lyrian invited as well.”
“You were all I was instructed to return with,” Maruk responded, somewhat apologetically.
“I guess it can’t be helped. Babe? I guess figure out what you want to show me next for when I get back” he pulled the female into an embrace and put his lips on the top of her head in a foreign but affectionate mannerism.
“Take your time, Love. Uncle Darclemus tends to be Thorough. I won’t expect you back until late. Take the Car.” Lyrian stood to shake Maruk’s hand, “A pleasure” she said as the three then walked to the door.
“I’ll leave the car for you. Im curious about this Tram system” Mac remarked, failing to see Maruk deflate slightly.
“This way then Mr Grarzia.” Maruk stated as they left the house and headed up the hanging path toward the tram station. It was going to be a substantial walk to get there.
“Oh no... Mr Grarzia is my father-in-law. My friends call me Mac. I think it will do” Mac chuckled as they rounded the corner. They were in sight of the tram station now and Maruk began to relax a little
“Mac then. We are almost to the station thank the voi….” Maruk froze as he heard a piercing shriek from their left and above them. A looming creature roughly half again bigger than a Delmar swooped into view bearing all of its teeth. It was a Gri’Kra. It was one of the larger predators of the planet and generally considered Delmar’s Apex. Most had learned to fear the Delmar civilized area’s. but This was not in the civilized area… It was a short furred beast with large skin flaps between its 6 legs that could be stretched out into a gliding wing. Its eyes were set close together and it was missing a ‘nose’. Is mouth had two venom injecting fangs surrounded by serrated teeth that were constantly being cycled out by new ones growing in. This was a beast purpose built to kill and eat anything on the plant. Maruk prepared for the end as the Giant fanged Beast opened its Maw to claim its vic….
Maruk was flung aside as this ‘Mac’ body checked him out of the way, drawing a strange device from under that infernally bright shirt and pointing it at the looming Death beast.. The device spoke; Releasing a piercing shrieking, bark. This was followed by a loud CRACK of something breaking the sound barrier These two sounds blended into one terrible noise; stunning Maruk partially as his ears begin to ring. The device repeated this noise 5 times in rapid succession as Mac took a strange stance, both hands on the weapon, arms outstretched and slightly bent, legs shoulder width apart and slightly bent at the knees. The beast was within 15meters when Its head, just above its upper jaw, exploded into bits of bone and brains, two more holes appeared in the Beast’s upper torso with one hole appearing in its flying membrane and then the middle arm of the opposite wing was severed. The bone just above the elbow joined evaporating into an auburn Mist of bone and blood. Mac Jumped to the side, grabbing the Dazed Courier and dragging him bodily into the Tram Station. The Gri’Kra slammed into the elevated walk way, wedged between two safety rails, oozing its life’s blood onto the plating.
“Well... that happened...” Maruk’s head snapped over to the ridiculously calm voice beside him. Mac was calmly pulling a rectangular piece out of the bottom of this weapon of his; pocketing it as he withdrew another one from under his shirt on the other side from where he had produced this device. He snapped the new rectangle into the bottom of this weapon and raised it again to point at the dead Gri’Kra. A shiver ran down Maruk’s spine as this Man calmly stalked up to the dead apex’s body and then kicked it in the face slightly. It was almost as if he was daring it to come back to life.
“Yup, It’s dead” Mac stated before turning around. Maruk took a step back in shock as he saw the teeth filled smile and a predator’s eyes staring back at him for just a moment before all of it disappeared and a more pleasant expression replaced the Predator.
“What the ‘Fuck’ was that!” Maruk practically squawked.
Mac only shrugged, “you tell me, never seen one before”, still perfectly calm.
“Not the Gri’Kra, That!” Maruk pointed at the device still in Mac’s hands, pointed down by his feet.
“Oh, this. It’s called a Gauss Pistol. I believe you would recognize it more as a ‘kinetic’.” Mac responded. “My people really like their kinetics” he shrugged again.
Maruk just stared at him, unable to say anything as Mac just slid the smallest Kinetics weapon, he had ever seen, back under his shirt. It snapped into a black contraption in his waistband obviously designed to hold it but keep it ready for instant use.
Mac straightened his shirt over the weapon just as the Tram arrived. They boarded the tram and departed for the main hall in silence.
——————————————————————
Darclemus looked up as the office door chimed. “Come!” He called as one of his security personnel opened the door. A rather exhausted and distraught Maruk entered followed by an utterly calm, if exceedingly loudly dressed, Mackenzie. He caught an amused smirk as the man noticed the elder Delmar looking him over
“Ah, Mr Mackenzie Grarzia I presume” Darclemus offered, standing to greet the two men. He paused as he noticed the frantic look on Maruk’s face. He was about to ask what was wrong when Mackenzie spoke, “I believe this should make everyone feel better.” He said, very slowly moving his hands to his side and withdrawing from his waistband a strange-looking item that looked like a very small laser or energy weapon. The room became very still as the security guards stiffened and began to reach for their own weapons. A shake from the head of states head froze them as Mackenzie nodded his thanks. Pulling a strange rectangular piece out of where he was holding it, then sliding the perpendicular top backward toward himself with a click. The moving part locked back and a small cylinder of coppery color with a black and silver tip snapped onto the air before being caught and pocketed by Mackenzie.
He turned to one of the security guards and flipped this weapon around to hand it to him grip first followed by the strange rectangle, “we had an incident on the way here. A beast of some kind attacked us, a Gri’kra Maruk called it. Maruk knows I am armed because I was forced to kill it during its ambush. This did not show up to your security because it is kinetic. If you leave it as I have given it to you it is harmless and completely inert.” He finished the explanation and finished handing it to the guards with a nod.
“Thank you, take a seat Mr Grarzia” Darclemus stated with practiced calm, “let us begin.”
“I see. Please call me Mac, as I would like to consider you a friend”
“Very well, Mac. I have spoken to Captain Silu, and read Commander Folmurs report. I was given the recommendation to speak to you for myself.” Darclemus settled into his seat “I wish to hear your perspective, from the beginning please”
‘This is going to be a long night’ Mac thought as he began as instructed.
—————————————————————-
It was two hours to midnight when Mackenzie finished.
“Well, Mac. I appreciate your thoroughness” The elder head of state offered.
“Admittedly, I was forwarded by Lyrian. M’Lord” Mac had chuckled when he had to ask what to call Darclemus but continued to use the honorific out of respect.
“Ah, well I fear I must ask some question. Please know that I do not ask lightly, or intend any offense” the tribal leader said carefully.
“I have been a military man my entire adult life, sir. I know a debriefing when I see one.” Mac responded stoically.
“Very well, I need to know your honest opinion about … Humanity, I believe you call yourselves. How big of a threat are they to my people first, the Galaxy second. “ Darclemus asked leaning forward to put his elbows on his desk. He was studying this Mackenzie. He was an Apex predator. He had said as much, but had surprised the head of state by explaining that his species was one of many species of being considered to be Apex species. Humans simply made it to sapience whereas the others had not.
“That…. Depends… “Macs tone had gone deadly serious, “when, not if, they reach the Unity’s boarder; they will be incredibly dangerous to anyone they view as a threat to their species… make no mistake M’Lord, if they are blindsided in such a way that humans die, or worse, are tortured and dissected, they will wage a very human style war… we have a term.. Total War. It is brutal, and it is complete. You have seen my gun camera footage as I explained some of what my ship is capable of. Know this. Concord is among the smallest and least effective warships in humanities arsenal in terms of direct combat. Her strength comes in her ability to go unseen, to strike from the Blackness of the void. Frankly, that should terrify you.”
“And yet you would request our aid in reaching them… telling them we, and the Unity exists… Delmar has no love for the Unity… but I do not want the blood of Trillions on my hands” Darclemus stated sternly.
“I understand. However I believe the death toll will be greater is I, with your help, do not act. I do not know all of the details, but I have been told a little about the conflict between Delmar and the GU. I know you have been looking for a way to strengthen you hand. I suspect…” Mac paused… glancing around the room before sitting back in silence.
Darclemus narrowed his gaze; then finallly spoke, not to Mackenzie, but to his detail, “leave us.” he ordered. Dangerous tones warned against protest. The security detail paused, then filed our silently.
The door closed and Darclemus activated the anti-eavesdropping system in his office. He turned back to Mac and nodded. “You were saying?” His warning was clear.
“I believe you wish to break from your conquerors.” Mac said simply.

4th wall here Glad you could... *static*....
My Boredom, “hey hey hey hey!! I can’t sleep!”
Me, “FUUUUUU”
My Boredom, “I KNOW!! Get your phone. Let do tha, you know. “
Me, “what”
My Boredom, “you know! That thing! With the alien chick and tha BRRRRTS!”
Me, “ *sighs* you wanna right an episode”
My Boredom, “YEA! that’s the one!”
Me, “fuuuuck, but I donno what happens next”
My Boredom, “WHO THE FUCK CARES! Just start typing. I got dis”
First- https://www.reddit.com/HFY/comments/16baslg/comment/jzc7fma/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3
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"I think I can contact Sol”
Both men sat for a full 2 ‘minutes’ locked in a gaze.
“I think I can get a data packet to Terra..” Mac whispered, “It has to survive 180ish of your hours. And not be missed when it gets there.”
“Go on…” Silu’s mind raced over the conversation with Mac post Intercept Incident…
“The day Icario told me that my species, my world was lost to me, he stated that they had found Sol…”
Silu took a deep breath, “I remember. Something about a subspace flare with no meaningful data linked to the timeline borrowed from Concords sensors.”
“Yes.. a subspace flare… a recorded subspace flare….. in the right part of the galaxy….. With recorded coordinates… “ Mac finished..
“Fuck..” Silu swore, “ 20 years of travel would be a little over a week for a data packet…” Silu mumbled.
The Galactic Unity was vast. Spanning a 35 year diameter at its widest point, for a freighter such as Traveler. This was why subspace and advanced algorithms were heavily used just to keep the galaxy updated with itself.Silu shook his head. That was not what was needed. He squared his shoulders and decided to face the problem head on, “I’m not sure that this message would be wise.” He said finally, and Macs head sank.
“Kobiashi Maru” Mac wasn’t wearing his translators right now, at least not actively, he could see them hanging around his neck just in case. Whatever he had just said was not in Delmar, but the agony transcended language..
“I’m sorry, what do you mean” Silu tried.
Mac gave a weak laugh, and returned to Delmar, “It’s a name.. ‘Kobiashi Maru’… It’s a fake void ship from a form of entertainment we called “movies”. They influenced culture in a way few things from my race ever did.. Kobiashi Maru, means ‘a no win scenario’.” Max held up a hand to continue, “And this may just be a no win situation. Every option requires a lot of faith in at least one aspect.”
“Can you give me details?” Silu asked.
“I’ll try," Mac sighed and steadied himself, “the first option is the easiest. No sending them anything. It also has the strongest and possibly bloodiest downsides... FTL is an inevitability for Humanity.... we know it can be done now because even my test failure showed them that light speed wall can be broken… and we are Human… we WILL break it…. If only for the simple reason of “because we can”. A dark chuckle escaped Mac as he finally sat back in his chair to continue.“Considering how far ahead we Humans are in shields, weapons, sensors, and stealth tech; once we get here…., once we figure out the coordinate problem, and start jumping around... “
“ we will be playing a galactic game of chance..” Silu finished
Max nodded, “If humanities first impressions of the Galaxy at large… Is an overgrown pompous Lizard trying to collect specimens…. “ Mac's voice trailed off as Silu’s eyes widened at the Venom dripping off of those words. Mac sighed, “Captain, didn’t you ever wonder why I never tried to escape. Never put up a real fight…. How it was relatively easy to communicate, and understand each other?”
“Well, we are all Sapients after all.” Silu tried diplomatically.
“While as enlightened as that is as a philosophy…. It is incorrect… We didn’t end up with me trying to murder my way back to my ship for one simple reason…. We look similar.. No I’m not talking about race, creed, skin color, or religion. I’m talking about biology… I have heard the rumblings among the crew… the word, “apex” has been thrown around. Let me ask you, Do you assume Humanity to be the Alex species of our cradle world?”
“Until now” that revelation was not what Silu expected.
“We are not.. we are not even close. Earth.. Terra.. does not have one climate. Because of that, We have over 70 different species that we consider to be apex predators on our world. Humanity is simply the one that figured out tools.. much like the Delmar.”Silu just looked at him, speechlessly.. so Mac continued..“Many of these predators look very close to some of the species ancestry of the Galactic Unity…. Enough so, that Humanity, if provoked, would treat them like the very deadly non sapient they remind us of back home, we have Millennia of ecological competition and mutual predation to do anything else…. “
Mac took a breath, “Captain, I fear that if Delmar were not so close to Humans in appearance, Things would not have gone so… smoothly between us. Yours is the only race in the Unity that developed along our same path, with the only difference being that Humanity became more adapted to grassland, long distance hunting, big game predation in higher gravity.”
“Delmar is a singular climate outside of the poles..” Silu offered, “a complete jungle for all land masses, we never had to leave the trees to look for bigger game”
“Or submit yourselves to the danger of doing so as early. So you kept your tails, grew longer and leaner. You kept more of your abilities from being tree dwellers. But through all that, we still look ‘related’... Faces, mouths, even ears.. forgive me, I know she is your niece; but my human baser instincts treat Lyrian as more exotic beauty than alien, someone to be pursued for mating and securing generations." Silu stirred uncomfortably, but Max wasn’t finished, “Thermians, Saurians, the adult Lycan species trigger the “Danger, kill it.. maybe eat it later, instinct in myself and therefore Humanity. Had I woken up to a Saurian, or a Thermian tending to me, or experimenting on me, on my first day.. my very human fight or flight instincts, combined with the shock of living my whole life without knowledge of the greater galaxy and it’s species… would have ensured a much worse, and much bloodier ending.”
“Forgive me, but I have to ask.. what’s to stop them if you contact them anyway…” Silu asked.
“Knowledge… " Mac stated flatly, "Humanity has a saying, ‘Knowledge is power’. The only way I see this ending well, is if Humanity joins the Galactic community with their eyes open…. As I see it, we either trust Sol with the knowledge, and offer them the information to find a way in without bloodshed… or we trust the Unity not to fuck up first contact with a race of heavily armed apex predators with a planet sized ‘fuck around and find out’ mentality.”
“I noticed, you said community, not unity..” Silu’s tone was one of, understandable, concern.
“humanity would never consent to the Unity” Mac said flatly. “We are a fiercely independent species, who have been in an almost constant state of war throughout the majority of our own history. The second worst thing the Unity could possibly do, would be to demand Sol bend the knee. The first, would be to try and make them”
“So, pray to the gods that Humanity doesn’t stumble blindly into a Galaxtic war of exterminatus… or pray to the gods, that The Unity doesn’t start one when humanity introduces itself.” Silu rubbed the bridge between his eyes
*Captain to the bridge* the overhead barked.
“We can finish later” Mac stood and flicked a quick human saluteSilu chuckled at the mannerism. “Yes. Although maybe less sobriety would be warranted”
Mac flashed a smile, mostly not showing his teeth this time, “Don’t threaten me with a good time, Captain”
“Ha! Dismissed Lieutenant.” And with that, Silu returned to the bridge. They were coming up on Argorania, It was time to go to work
.——————————————————————
Lyrian eased Lucid Traveler out of subspace just in time for her Captain to arrive back on the Bridge
“CAPTAIN HAS THE CON!” Barked Marg, giving him a nod as she vacated ‘The chair’, as Mac called it.
“Subspace retrograde complete, beginning Decl Burn. ETA 45 ‘minutes’ to He’rth (Hearth) Station.” Lyrian stated, anticipating Silu’s request for a report, as she eased Travelers head ‘round to face her main drives into her inertia. Traveler let out a low growl through her bones as she sub-light drives spooled up under Lyrian's encouraging hand on the quadrant. She loved this part almost as much as she loved reentry.
Traveler was an old ship. She was well kept, but her Keel had been laid over two Millennia before. She had gone through countless refits and upgrades. But money for an, admittedly, smaller commerce tribe was always tight. Traveler had been built without retro-grade Drives to save money and weight. Even now, upgrading to the power hungry forward facing engines was considered a Luxury for a ship of her age; and many owneoperators preferred to keep expenses down and Lines fare when it came to this generation of ship. The result was the need to reverse orientation to decelerate from anything more than 1/16th of Travelers sub-light cruise speed, which was not all that great to begin with. The second thing Traveler lacked was high level Automation. Yes, many essential systems had been upgraded to some level of self management, but Navigation, Comms, and Lyrians favorite; the helm or Con; we’re still very much a hands on affair. The Information side was very much computer assisted, but the execution was still very much ‘stick and rudder’. Lyrian's station was one of only two that were required to be harnessed into during ‘critical phases’ such as entry and retro jumps into and out of both subspace and inter-planetary. Nav, because they were needed to keep the telemetry feeding properly to Con; and the Con because Lyrian was using both hands and or feet to Maneuver Traveler.
Mac had chuckled at that, but failed to elaborate the first time Lyri had shown him her station. Her left hand was primary pitch and roll control. It had a ‘high rate’ setting for transit and open void maneuvering, and a ‘low rate’ setting for fine control in orbital and docking operations. It was located on an arm rest section of her console it had buttons to let her key her wire frame headset if she needed to talk to another station without shouting across the bridge, as well as a multi directional thumb switch that let her flick through her multi function displays without having to leave her controls. her right had two sets of controls to manage. At her right hand, also at arm rest level, was a singular throttle quadrant. It controlled all of Travelers main drives at once. It also has a thumb joystick that gave her control over the slewing functions of the ships maneuvering thrusters. This allowed her slide the ship to Larboard or Starboard, and raise and lower the ship without changing Travelers orientation. It too has a high and low rate setting. The second control cluster was on a gimbal that snapped into place just above Lyrian’s throttle, but spent most of its life swung out of the way. It was a second throttle quadrant with each of Travelers 4 main drives on a separate lever, this could be moved out of the way when not needed, or quickly snapped down should asymmetric main thrust be needed, or one of Travelers engines needed emergency shut down separate from the rest. Lyrian had rarely used that one.Lyrians feet had a set of pedals. They were the simplest of her controls. They were linked at the middle so that when you pushed one forward. The other would come back toward you. Each pedal had also rotated individually. You could rotate the pedal forward by pressing with your toes at the top. Pushing the left pedal would activate the maneuvering thrusters to yaw Traveler to the left, pushing the right pedal would yaw traveler to the right. Pressing the toe would rotate the pedal and add main drive vectoring or bleed drive output directionally to add more to the yawning affect respectively. Each toe axis had a lock out. You could not use two directions at once.
The center of her console was made up of two separate screens. They were equal size and shape. The left one showed her primary instruments and essential navigation. It could be decluttered to essentials or detail could be added through Lyrians left thumb. The right screen was for star charts, detailed engine and thruster information, Tactical read outs and ancillaries as needed depending on the situation. Lyrian could flick through those settings as well from her left thumb. Mac had nodded approvingly at her ‘PFD’ and ‘MFD’ layout. Again, not expounding further, just letting her show him and observing.All of these controls were designed to allow the Con to have almost complete control of all of Travelers Axes’ of travel with minimal jumping between hand and feet positions. User configurable Artificial feedback was provided to the Con operator to give them a tactile response to work with their muscle memory. Traveler being an older ship also had a voice. Her main drives were felt more strongly through her frame than her newer sisters. Because the Con was a ‘harnessed’ station at times; piloting her during those ‘critical phases’ was a very sensory saturated experience.Lyrian smiled, taking it in, listening as Traveler spoke. Piloting an old freighter was more ‘akin to riding a steed-beast than controlling a machine at times like this. ‘I love my job’
——————————————————————
The doors to Mac’s and Lyri’s quarters closed as Mac stepped in. They were 15 min from docking at He’rth station. Lyric had promised to tour guide him on his first experience outside of Traveler. ‘Alright, intergalactic tourist Mac, that’s me I guess’ he rummaged around his wardrobe. He had done a quick image search of the ships computer to see other species present in the Galactic Unity.. He was happy to have her as a guide considering the results. He started unzipping his hanging bag for the first time since packing for his test flight…Mac’s original LEAP test flight plan had been to “jump” to somewhere near the orbital plane of Titan Industries predictably named Titan Station, on Saturns moon of the same name. His alternates had been Rheinmetall’s Aerospace testing facility on Europa if he his jump had been short of prediction, or the NASA deep space observatory orbiting Neptune if he had jumped long. He was to make the jump; then burn for the closest of his options and wait for pickup. Concord had been stuffed with enough MRE-DS’s (deep space versions of the venerable concoctions) to last him until his pickup at the furthest alternate. Even with Concords limited storage. That had been easy considering that she was designed to sustain a two man crew for 18 months, and Macs test was a solo run.All this to say, Mac had packed a lot of clothes… deep space being what it was, he was not authorized to use up precious resources as a guest for non essentials like laundry. And Mac was not going to wear the same set of clothes for months or years waiting for pickup.
Mac smiled as he unfurled the bag to reveal he’s entire collection… of vintage and new Hawaiian and Caribbean style shirts. Lyrian had not seen these yet. They were a legacy from his uncle Martin. The man’s love for the classics, even dubious classics was legendary in the Terran Navy. It was a passion he had passed down to a traumatized young man who had just lost his family.‘Marty you beautiful old bastard,’ he stopped on his 19th birthday present from His Uncle, a perfect authentically made replica of the iconic red Hawaiian shirt worn by the main character in the ancient tv cult classic “Magnum Pi”. It was later re booted in the early 21st century. But Mac had watched the original with the old man.. there was no replacement.mac cackled to himself as he reached for his pair of aviators that he had packed in a separate padded compartment.
‘You will do nicely’
——————————————————————
Traveler shuddered as the Mooring clamps of He’rth station locked and stabilized. She was currently docked nose on, allowing hangers on both sides to be utilized for orbit to surface transfer of the supplies.
Lyrian settled back on her chair and un-strapped. “Moorings secured, Airlock secured. Man Drives coming offline” She listed off, reaching for the few controls not directly at her fingertips.
“Captain, He’rth station transmitting permission to come ‘aboard. They regret that they do not have shore power available. We are too large for them to run our systems.” Marg added looking over at the Coms stations shoulder.
“It will have to do, bring the auxiliary core online and shut down non essentials. Let’s not bleed money we don’t have to.” Silu ordered. Travelers faint thrum changed slightly as those orders were carried out.“Senior Bridge crew dismissed. It’s lunch time people, consider yourself off the rest of the week save skeleton rotation. We will be here a while. Good work” Silu smiled. Then stretched and followed the bridge crew out to be replaced by the Dock skeleton crew that rotated out every 9hours during long lay overs.
Senior bridge crew, were exempt from first watch, but everyone got a turn on a stay this long. Lyrian almost skipped off having gotten a message from Mac that he was home, ready for their date. They were going to go eat at the station and Mac was going to get his first experience in a public transit hub.A couple minutes She came to a screeching halt just inside the door to their quarters and just stared at her man.. at least she thought it was her man… he felt like her man through their bond... he was covered in the most obnoxiously Vibrant shirt she had ever laid eyes on.. a pair of blue ‘pants’ of some kinds and gigantic tinted eye covering… She remembered him calling them 'blue jeans'.Mac lost the staring contests failing to portray an innocent face and grinned unrepentantly.
—————————————————————
“What the Void are you wearing!”, she finally asked. She could feel his emotions, a wild mix of amusement and anticipation, she realized, of her reaction. Apparently, she had not disappointed him on the second one.
“It’s a Hawaiian shirt!” He proudly proclaimed, “Traditionally made, in Kawaii.”She remembered him mentioning those,
“THAT is a Hawaiian shirt?”
“No,” Max turned and opened his wardrobe, “THESE are Hawaiian shirts”
She walked over and beheld the loudest collection of clothing she had seen in her life. Some with animals that must be from his home world. Some with water and white/tan shore lines with strange trees.. some with giant round leaves and brightly colored flowers. Others with strange mechanical and vaguely avian monstrosities that appeared to by flying around each other wearing various codes of arms spewing fire from their wing..
“So?” Mac asked. Lyri jumped a little bit as she felt his arms wrap around her East from behind ‘I forget how quiet he is when he wants to be’ she mused, leaning back on him,
“They are.. loud.”
“They are supposed to be, They are a cultural garb from one of my favorite places on earth” he rumbled into her chest. She could feel his slight twinge of morning at that statement.
“Earth?” She asked at the untranslated Human word. Mac must not have his translators in. He had been needing them much less of late.
“Earth is Terra’s other name.” He answered. Letting her go once more and turning her to face him, “anything going to offend a species I don’t know about?” He did a quick spin
“I don’t think so, the red is loud, but It doesn’t mean much in most fashions.” She nodded. She quickly shimmied out of her uniform and void suit, changing into a white skin tight shirt topped with a more subdued poncho and a tan flowing skirt that hugged at the hips but flowed below mid thigh. She dressed quickly or risk missing lunch and dinner, judging by the desire burning off of Mac.‘Good’ she finished just as he pulled her in for an kiss, and her arms bumped up against something solid on his left hip on their way around him.. She pulled his shirt up to look, “what’s this”
Max gently separated from her with a *sigh*, “protection” he said. She looked a pointed question at him and he nodded to himself. Pulling the item out from inside his waistband leaving some kind of holster behind. He very carefully pulled a long rectangular piece out of where he was holding it, and slid the top half of the rest back until it locked, pocketing something that had popped out.He then held it sideways resting it on the his hands for her to look at. “This is a much much smaller version of the guns on Concord” he explained. Lyri felt a spike of fear run through her as his emotions slammed into stoic seriousness.
Mac felt her fear, and softened a little bit. “It can’t hurt you right now. I was going to teach you when we got to your home world and had the proper open space.” He shifted it closer to her, still held in his hand, “a hot metal projectile comes out of this end *he pointed the slender end pointed away from both of them* and is fed new ones by this *he reached onto his pocket to show her the rectangle he had removed earlier.* it pulls another one of these, *he pocketed the rectangle and produced a small rounded but finned dart with thee little pieces attached to hit, that appeared to be designed to pop off easily. From the bronze colored casing it was held in* in after every shot. It is a CZ P-488S Compact Gauss Pistol, my people usually just call them ‘handguns’, or ‘Gun’ or ‘firearm’ although we have not needed chemical propellant since the break through in Micro Capacitors 200 years ago. It’s safe to hold, don’t be afraid”Lyri gingerly picked up the weapon. Plasma and laser pistols were the same general shape, and probably followed the same general rules for handling. So she kept the dangerous end pointed away for both of them.
“It’s heavy..” she said at last. “This is a Kinetic isn’t it.” She asked, handing it back to him and watching him load it before placing it back in its holster. It disappeared under his obnoxiously bright shirt.
“Yes, it works alot like your Flak Kannons. Just only one projectile at a time. And at much higher projectile speeds, usually.” he stated
“Won’t that put holes in the station?” She asked.
Max felt her worry, “Not this type of ammunition, these particulate projectiles are frangible, designed to damage soft tissue but break up on something hard like metal; and because it uses capacitors instead of propellant in the cartridges, I can use the AMU, sorry the “ammunition management Unit” *he pointed to a nondescript box she had just assumed was nothing* to partially drain the cartridge capacitors to a slower velocity. This is still deadly, and it will go through some walls depending on how they are constructed. but it won’t be able to exit travelers pressure hull, or the stations.”Max then visibly brightened . He clapped his hands together, “Now! Enough doom and gloom!” He smiled, “Care to go on a date, love? I hear there are strange new worlds to explore. Shall we boldly go?” He felt her confusion and just laughed
“I have no idea what that means, but I saw a lovely cafe on the observation deck in the listings” she gave him a not to convincing reproaching glare.
“Lead on my dear!” Mac stuck his right elbow out and Lyri looped her arm through it as they headed for the airlock.
——————————————————————
“Holy… shit…” Mac swore in English, as Lyri giggled next to them.
Mac was staring at the water tubes running along the walls of the observation deck. Most were made of metal, but glass bulbs were positioned every so many ‘meters’ and Aquatic races of all types were swimming between the bulbs, enjoying the view. Little bipedal and not bipedal crustacean esque children scuttled around frantically, chasing another child that looked like a cuter version of Squidward around a group of adults. The invertebrate children were clearly lost in a game of water tube tag and enjoying themselves. A Child that looked like a Husky puppy on two legs ran up and waved at one of the bipedal crab/waterbug looking children through the glass, the child ran to its parents for what appeared like a conversation, then swam over to a steel air lock… maybe water lock.. and popped out moments later with a towel around its upper thorax to hug the Husky pup. They ran off to a deck vendor as the aquatic child’s parents cycled through and waved to the pups parents. Further away from the windows were a pair of...
“Holy fuck, Dinosaur!!!” Mac whispered into Lyri’s ear. She was struggling not to laugh as wave after wave of new experience washed over her through their link. He paused as he felt her smirk through their bond
“What I say?” taking a sip from the water bottle he had brought with him.
“So this is what little kid Jamie was like.” She teased him causing him to choke on the sip he was taking,
“ha! Mine!” She laughed pressing her advantage to steal the bottle for a sip of her own.
Mac coughed and sputtered for a second, “God Dammit. *cough* pictures my ass, that fucker is huge!!” He finally got out.
“She, is huge..” Lyri corrected, “That's a Saurian. The kids in the aquatics section are K’Claram’s *pointing at the crustacean looking ones* and Mauk’lur *pointing at adorable mini squid-ward*“But there are two different ones with shells” Mac offered.
“Puberty. K’Claram are hatched multi-pedal, they stay that way until around 12, then molt into Bipeds and start developing the ability to breathe atmosphere.” She explained then pointed to the fluffy Husky, “He is Lycan. Maybe 10 or 11. They grow slow until 16, then very fast until adulthood at 17.”
lyri had just finished the explanation when they arrived at the Cafe, and were seated.“This is…. A lot… “ he paused as one of the Avian species soared over head low enough to look around, but high enough to not clip anything with its wings, “… to take in..” he finished, watching the large bird species soar by
“Kawmari, a young female” Lyri indicated to the avian, who had just landed at a shop. “She won’t get much taller, but her wings will double in size over her life span”
Mac realized that she had a pair of arms as well, as they hinged out from joints just below the wings joints, “we are not ready…” escaped a sober murmur from Mac
“James, if this is too much..” she began, but he shook his head. Whatever it was passed from his feelings and was replaced with content happiness
“I can feel you worry too you know” he smiled back at her, “Not today, today is for us.”
“Are you ready to order?” A large Gecko with six arms and a waiters bib asked in GC. Mac jumped just a bit, distracted by the newness of it all and fumbled in his shirt pocket, producing his left side translator ,
“Oh shit! Oh hai, sorry. My galactic common is poor. Can we start with drinks?” He asked once it was on place.
—————————————————————-
Growrmun Drumorsik eyed the young couple from across the promenade. Casually sipping a glass of Lycan ale and generally being unassuming. He watched as the pale skinned being placed a translator in his ear and began talking to the waitress. ‘Good’ he picked up the weak signal through the din, casually stretching out to point his left arm towards the two.“Can we start with drinks,” came over his own translator, as it was tied into his eves-dropping microphone located under his cloak on his left arm.
His translator chirped , “98 percent match,”
He pulled out his data pad and started tapping. Pulling up its optical scanner and zooming in, snapping a picture he saved it. Then turned to look out the window, back to the couple, nominally looking through a SubNet article.*Packet compiled* chirped into his ear,“Send” he commanded. A slight wag of his tail that he allowed slip as he enjoyed the view, over the planet; for it was truly exceptional.
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My Boredom, “Told you I got dis”
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So I’ve decided to try to make a poncho. Beginning friendly - basically a huge rectangle. Everything online has vast differences in what size across it should be. Mine is measuring at around 61 inches across. Got about four rows down but I’m worried I’m going to get too far before I need to frog it. Advice? 61 inches seem okay?

My fiancé are having a private ceremony out of state with a reception/afterparty happening a month later in July. This is the first time either of us have planned a party this big and want to make sure we aren’t missing something- like a recycling bin for example. It seems easy to get caught thinking about the major things and over look the little, or important parts of the infrastructure like a fan in July. Also, any event/planning advice or tips is appreciated.
The event: VERY CASUAL-think block party -Located at our house in the Foothills of NC (2500sqft), very large yard, covered back deck, and attached garage, 5 toilets!, tons of string lights hung, -Main day is Saturday July 29 noon-midnight. some guests will be coming Friday and staying through Sunday and some will come Saturday and stay the night. -Sleeping: some family are sleeping in the house, others bringing RV, guests have been invited to also bring RV, sleep in a tent, or local hotel. -Guests 200ish not including neighbors or all the kiddos
Planning: -Infrastructure: rented 20x40 tent, round tables (should we do rectangle?), chairs, tent fans. -Food: food truck with veggie and meat options scheduled between 5-8p. (We will not have a designated “eating time”, again casual party. -Drink: will provide non-alcoholic and alcoholic options (kegs, single cans, and 2 coolers of homemade, pre made cocktails.) Guests have also been given the option of BYOB -entertainment: dance floor, we want music and have been creating a playlist for the past couple of weeks, but We don’t have a PA system. During the day, I don’t think we need a DJ, just equipment, but at night I think we should have a DJ?? We have a blow up waterslide/bounce house for kids, some yard games -any recommendations!?, board games Fireworks to end the night. -supply list: cups, ice, large cooler(s), dispensing coolers, fire extinguishers, hand sanitizer, wipes, paper towels, sunscreen or ponchos…🤞,
This is what we have so far! Again any recommendations or tips for an event this size is appreciated. My biggest task right now is figuring out music/microphone (buy, rent, hire??).

i downloaded the csv data from Rebrickable and wrote some queries with C# because i was curious. this may be interesting to others who are also collecting lego minecraft. if you have any requests for similar queries, let me know.
the list is ordered by set number, then part number; the number at the right hand side is how many lego sets that part appears in at all. it cannot all fit in this one post, so i will comment with the second part of the list.
21115-1: The First Night ( 18787, Weapon Sword Blocky , Reddish Brown , 2) ( 18788, Weapon Axe Blocky , Reddish Brown , 1) ( 18789, Tool Pickaxe Blocky, Double , Reddish Brown , 3) 21116-1: Crafting Box ( 19727pr0008, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Rear ..., Red , 1) 21117-1: The Ender Dragon ( 3004pr0013, Brick 1 x 2 with Pink and Magenta Rec..., Black , 1) ( 3068bpr0256, Tile 2 x 2 with Light Purple, Medium ..., Black , 1) ( 51342, Creature Body Part, Dragon Wing 19 x ..., Black , 2) ( 6223, Brick 2 x 2 without Inside Ridges , Trans-Yellow , 2) 21118-1: The Mine ( 2431, Tile 1 x 4 with Groove , Pearl Gold , 2) 21119-1: The Dungeon ( 3024pr0005, Plate 1 x 1 with 2 Black Rectangles P..., Lime , 2) ( 3024pr0006, Plate 1 x 1 with 1 Black Rectangle Pr..., Green , 2) 21120-1: The Snow Hideout ( 18789, Tool Pickaxe Blocky, Double , Reddish Brown , 3) ( 3004pr0016, Brick 1 x 2 with Three Small Black Sq..., White , 2) 21121-1: The Desert Outpost ( 20308pr0001, Animal Body Part, Head Blocky with Pi..., Light Bluish Gray , 2) 21122-1: The Nether Fortress ( 19729pr0009, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Bright Pink , 3) ( 19729pr0010, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Yellow , 3) ( 3007, Brick 2 x 8 , Dark Red , 1) ( 87079pr0068, Tile 2 x 4 Pixels for Minecraft Ghast..., White , 1) ( 87079pr0078, Tile 2 x 4 Pixels for Minecraft Ghast..., White , 1) ( 87079pr0079, Tile 2 x 4 Pixels for Minecraft Ghast..., White , 1) ( 92438, Plate 8 x 16 , Dark Brown , 1) ( 970c43pr0851, Hips and Bright Pink Legs with Pixela..., Reddish Brown , 3) ( 973c43h43pr3008, Torso Pixelated Green, Dark Green, an..., Bright Pink , 3) 21123-1: The Iron Golem ( 25047pr0001, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Nose ..., White , 2) ( 3068bpr0286, Tile 2 x 2 with Minecraft Iron Golem ..., White , 2) ( 3069bpr0163, Tile 1 x 2 with Groove and Minecraft ..., White , 2) ( 63864pr0008, Tile 1 x 3 with Minecraft Golem Skin ..., White , 2) 21124-1: The End Portal ( 19727pr0005, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Rear ..., Dark Blue , 3) ( 3070bpr0161, Tile 1 x 1 with Minecraft Ender Eye P..., Dark Blue , 2) 21125-1: The Jungle Tree House ( 6112, Brick 1 x 12 , Medium Nougat , 2) 21126-1: The Wither ( 11203pr0014, Tile Special 2 x 2 Inverted with Mine..., Black , 1) ( 19729pr0014, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Withe..., Black , 1) ( 24445, Minifig Neck Connector [Tile Special ..., Black , 1) ( 91405, Plate 16 x 16 , Orange , 2) 21127-1: The Fortress ( 18787, Weapon Sword Blocky , Reddish Brown , 2) ( 19729, Minifig Head Special, Cube [Plain] , Dark Brown , 2) ( 19730, Helmet Rectangular , Pearl Gold , 2) ( 25769pr0001, Animal Body Part, Horse Head 1 x 2 wi..., Dark Orange , 1) ( 30350bpr0001, Tile Special 2 x 3 with 2 Clips with ..., Red , 2) 21128-1: The Village ( 25047pr0001, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Nose ..., White , 2) ( 25047pr0003, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Nose ..., Green , 1) ( 25047pr0004, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Nose ..., Nougat , 2) ( 25767pr0001, Torso Special, Long with Folded Arms ..., White , 1) ( 25767pr0002, Torso Special, Long with Folded Arms ..., Reddish Brown , 2) ( 3068bpr0286, Tile 2 x 2 with Minecraft Iron Golem ..., White , 2) ( 3068bpr0299, Tile 2 x 2 with Dark Red Squares / Mi..., White , 3) ( 3069bpr0163, Tile 1 x 2 with Groove and Minecraft ..., White , 2) ( 3070bpr0161, Tile 1 x 1 with Minecraft Ender Eye P..., Dark Blue , 2) ( 6112, Brick 1 x 12 , Medium Nougat , 2) ( 63864pr0008, Tile 1 x 3 with Minecraft Golem Skin ..., White , 2) 21129-1: The Mushroom Island ( 19727pr0003, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Rear ..., Red , 1) 21130-1: The Nether Railway ( 19729pr0009, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Bright Pink , 3) ( 19729pr0023, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Dark Red , 3) ( 2431pr0083, Tile 1 x 4 with Red, Orange and Yello..., Dark Red , 2) ( 3958, Plate 6 x 6 , Dark Brown , 1) ( 970c43pr0851, Hips and Bright Pink Legs with Pixela..., Reddish Brown , 3) ( 973c43h43pr3008, Torso Pixelated Green, Dark Green, an..., Bright Pink , 3) 21131-1: The Ice Spikes ( 18789, Tool Pickaxe Blocky, Double , Medium Lavender , 3) ( 2456, Brick 2 x 6 , Medium Blue , 1) ( 3004pr0016, Brick 1 x 2 with Three Small Black Sq..., White , 2) ( 3004pr0019, Brick 1 x 2 with Minecraft Pixelated ..., Black , 1) ( 30350bpr0001, Tile Special 2 x 3 with 2 Clips with ..., Red , 2) ( 3069bpr0180, Tile 1 x 2 with Pixelated Black, Whit..., Pearl Gold , 1) 21132-1: The Jungle Temple ( 19723, Minifig Neckwear Armour Breastplate R..., Dark Orange , 1) ( 19730, Helmet Rectangular , Dark Orange , 1) 21133-1: The Witch Hut ( 25767pr0003, Torso Special, Long with Folded Arms ..., Dark Purple , 1) ( 29272pr0001, Minifig Head Special, Cube and Hat wi..., Black , 1) ( 3626c, Minifig Head Plain [Hollow Stud] , Trans-Green , 1) 21134-1: The Waterfall Base ( 19727pr0020, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Rear ..., Medium Azure , 1) ( 24008pr0002, Animal Body Part, Cat Head 1 x 2 with..., Black , 1) 21135-1: The Crafting Box 2.0 ( 18789, Tool Pickaxe Blocky, Double , Pearl Gold , 1) ( 25769pr0002, Animal Body Part, Horse Head 1 x 2 wi..., Dark Bluish Gray , 1) ( 33291, Plant, Flower, Plate Round 1 x 1 with..., Light Bluish Gray , 3) 21136-1: The Ocean Monument ( 11203pr0002, Tile Special 2 x 2 Inverted with Pixe..., Sand Green , 1) ( 18787, Weapon Sword Blocky , Medium Lavender , 1) ( 18789, Tool Pickaxe Blocky, Double , Medium Lavender , 3) ( 19723, Minifig Neckwear Armour Breastplate R..., Medium Lavender , 1) ( 26603pr0004, Tile 2 x 3 with Minecraft print , Dark Blue , 1) ( 26603pr0005, Tile 2 x 3 with Minecraft print , Tan , 1) ( 3700, Technic Brick 1 x 2 [1 Hole] , Dark Blue , 3) ( 3958, Plate 6 x 6 , Dark Green , 3) ( 59349, Panel 1 x 6 x 5 , Dark Green , 3) ( 60593, Window 1 x 2 x 3 Flat Front , Sand Green , 3) 21137-1: The Mountain Cave ( 18789, Tool Pickaxe Blocky, Double , Medium Lavender , 3) ( 18791, Equipment Shovel Blocky , Flat Silver , 1) ( 19727pr0005, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Rear ..., Dark Blue , 3) ( 19727pr0020, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Rear ..., Black , 1) ( 19729, Minifig Head Special, Cube [Plain] , Dark Brown , 2) ( 19729pr2282, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Trans-Light Blue , 2) ( 19730, Helmet Rectangular , Pearl Gold , 2) ( 20308pr0002, Animal Body Part, Head Blocky with Pi..., Light Bluish Gray , 1) ( 23421, Spiral [Fireman] Pole 32L , Dark Tan , 1) ( 25195, Plate 2 x 6 with Pole Holder Pin , Light Bluish Gray , 1) ( 26603pr0006, Tile 2 x 3 - Centered Black Minecraft..., Medium Nougat , 3) ( 3024pr0011, Plate 1 x 1 with Red, Purple Pixels (..., Dark Blue , 2) ( 33051, Plant, Apple , Pearl Gold , 2) ( 4594, Windscreen 2 x 4 x 2 Vertical , Trans-Bright Green , 1) ( 4865bpr0004, Panel 1 x 2 x 1 [Rounded Corners] wit..., Trans-Bright Green , 1) ( 6223pr0107, Brick 2 x 2 with Dark Green Square Print, Trans-Bright Green , 1) ( 98138pr0080, Tile Round 1 x 1 with Blue, Yellow an..., Pearl Gold , 1) ( 98372pr0002, Food Steak on Bone with Dark Red Meat..., White , 1) 21138-1: The Melon Farm ( 19729pr0011, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Lime , 1) ( 25047pr0004, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Nose ..., Nougat , 2) ( 25767pr0002, Torso Special, Long with Folded Arms ..., Reddish Brown , 2) ( 30350bpr0006, Tile Special 2 x 3 with 2 Clips with ..., Bright Light Blue , 1) 21139-1: The Nether Fight ( 18788, Weapon Axe Blocky , Medium Lavender , 2) ( 19729pr0009, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Bright Pink , 3) ( 19729pr0023, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Dark Red , 3) ( 970c43pr0851, Hips and Bright Pink Legs with Pixela..., Reddish Brown , 3) ( 973c43h43pr3008, Torso Pixelated Green, Dark Green, an..., Bright Pink , 3) 21140-1: The Chicken Coop ( 18788, Weapon Axe Blocky , Dark Bluish Gray , 2) ( 20308pr0001, Animal Body Part, Head Blocky with Pi..., Light Bluish Gray , 2) ( 30126, Headwear Accessory Plume / Feathers w..., White , 3) ( 30350bpr0002, Tile Special 2 x 3 with 2 Clips with ..., Bright Light Blue , 1) ( 98138pr0078, Tile Round 1 x 1 with Brown and Tan S..., Trans-Clear , 3) 21141-1: The Zombie Cave ( 35526pr0002, Baby / Small Body, Pixelated Green Sq..., Dark Azure , 1) ( 35530pr0038, Minifig Head Special, Small Cube (Bab..., Green , 3) 21142-1: The Polar Igloo ( 19729pr0016, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Stray..., Dark Bluish Gray , 1) ( 30350bpr0007, Tile Special 2 x 3 with 2 Clips with ..., Bright Light Blue , 1) ( 35528pr0001, Animal Body Part, Bear Head 1 x 2 wit..., White , 1) ( 44567a, Hinge Plate 1 x 2 Locking with 1 Fing..., White , 3) ( upn0023, Neckwear Poncho, Tattered and Pixelated , Dark Bluish Gray , 1) 21143-1: The Nether Portal ( 14769pr0008, Tile Round 2 x 2 with Bottom Stud Hol..., Black , 1) ( 16968, Launcher, Brick Special 1 x 4 with In..., White , 1) ( 19729pr0010, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Yellow , 3) ( 19729pr0023, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Dark Red , 3) ( 3006, Brick 2 x 10 , Dark Red , 2) ( 35526pr0001, Baby / Small Body, Pixelated Black, G..., Bright Pink , 1) ( 35530pr0008, Minifig Head Special, Small Cube (Bab..., Light Bluish Gray , 1) 21144-1: The Farm Cottage ( 25769pr0003, Animal Body Part, Horse Head 1 x 2 wi..., Light Bluish Gray , 1) ( 30350bpr0003, Tile Special 2 x 3 with 2 Clips with ..., Bright Light Blue , 1) ( 30350bpr0004, Tile Special 2 x 3 with 2 Clips with ..., Bright Light Blue , 1) ( 30350bpr0005, Tile Special 2 x 3 with 2 Clips with ..., Bright Light Blue , 1) ( 35525pr0001, Animal Body Part, Rabbit Head Blocky ..., Dark Tan , 2) ( 35525pr0002, Animal Body Part, Rabbit Head Blocky ..., Black , 1) ( 37482, Sticker Sheet for Set 21144-1 , [No ColoAny Color], 1) ( 98138pr0078, Tile Round 1 x 1 with Brown and Tan S..., Trans-Clear , 3) 21145-1: The Skull Arena ( 18788, Weapon Axe Blocky , Pearl Gold , 2) ( 19729pr0015, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., White , 1) ( 19729pr0020, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Dark Bluish Gray , 1) ( 3003, Brick 2 x 2 , Pearl Gold , 3) ( 3028, Plate 6 x 12 , Orange , 1) ( 33051, Plant, Apple , Pearl Gold , 2) ( 35525pr0003, Animal Body Part, Rabbit Head Blocky ..., White , 1) ( 970c12pr1536, Hips and Dark Bluish Gray Legs with G..., Black , 1) ( 970c32pr1537, Hips and Medium Blue Legs with Pixela..., Dark Orange , 1) ( 973c12h03pr4347, Torso Pixelated Dark Bluish Grey, Gre..., Dark Bluish Gray , 1) ( 973c27h41pr4348, Torso Pixelated Yellow / Blue / White..., Medium Blue , 1) 21146-1: The Skeleton Attack ( 18788, Weapon Axe Blocky , Dark Bluish Gray , 2) ( 18789, Tool Pickaxe Blocky, Double , Reddish Brown , 3) ( 19727pr0020, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Rear ..., Red , 2) ( 26603pr0006, Tile 2 x 3 - Centered Black Minecraft..., Medium Nougat , 3) ( 44567a, Hinge Plate 1 x 2 Locking with 1 Fing..., White , 3) 21147-1: The Bedrock Adventures ( 19727pr0005, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Rear ..., Dark Blue , 3) ( 26603pr0016, Tile 2 x 3 with Pixelated Black Dots,..., Medium Nougat , 2) ( 3024pr0011, Plate 1 x 1 with Red, Purple Pixels (..., Dark Blue , 2) ( 36846pr0001, Creature, Silverfish with Black Eyes ..., Sand Blue , 1) ( 46212, Brick 1 x 2 x 5 without Side Supports , Trans-Dark Blue , 3) 21151-1: The End Battle ( 15303, Projectile, Spring Shooter Ammunition 8L, Trans-Purple , 2) ( 19729pr0022, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Medium Azure , 1) ( 3001pr9991, Brick 2 x 4 with Minecraft Code Print , Tan , 1) ( 3069bpr0247, Tile 1 x 2 with Groove and Purple, Br..., Black , 3) ( 3069bpr0249, Tile 1 x 2 with Groove and Purple, Br..., Black , 1) ( 970c12pr1651, Hips and Dark Bluish Gray Legs with P..., Dark Bluish Gray , 1) ( 973c42h02pr4599, Torso Pixelated Dark Orange Straps Pr..., Medium Azure , 1) ( 98138pr0102, Tile Round 1 x 1 with Blue Squares, P..., Dark Blue , 2) 21152-1: The Pirate Ship Adventure ( 19729pr0024, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Dark Brown , 1) ( 3003, Brick 2 x 2 , Pearl Gold , 3) ( 3004pr9996, Brick 1 x 2 with White and Black Squa..., Light Bluish Gray , 1) ( 30350bpr0009, Tile Special 2 x 3 with 2 Clips [Thic..., Black , 1) ( 3069bpr0248, Tile 1 x 2 with Groove and Blue, Yell..., Red , 1) ( 3070bpr0190, Tile 1 x 1 with Pixelated Eye print , Bright Green , 3) ( 41703, Animal Body Part, Bird, Chicken/Parro..., Red , 1) ( 973c27h02pr4595, Torso Jacket Pixelated White and Gold..., Dark Blue , 1) 21153-1: The Wool Farm ( 19727pr0020, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Rear ..., Red , 2) ( 19727pr0020, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Rear ..., Yellow , 1) 21154-1: The Blaze Bridge ( 19729pr0010, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Yellow , 3) 21155-1: The Creeper Mine ( 19729pr0033, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Dark ..., Tan , 1) ( 19729pr0034, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Dark Orange , 1) ( 26603pr0006, Tile 2 x 3 - Centered Black Minecraft..., Medium Nougat , 3) ( 26603pr0016, Tile 2 x 3 with Pixelated Black Dots,..., Medium Nougat , 2) ( 3028, Plate 6 x 12 , Dark Brown , 3) ( 30350cpr0010, Tile Special 2 x 3 with 2 Clips [Thic..., Dark Bluish Gray , 1) ( 46212, Brick 1 x 2 x 5 without Side Supports , Trans-Dark Blue , 3) ( 973c02h03pr4768, Torso Pixelated Overalls, Reddish Bro..., Yellow , 1) ( 973c26h12pr4748, Torso Pixelated Dark Bluish Gray Squa..., Tan , 1) 21158-1: The Panda Nursery ( 14769pr1148, Tile Round 2 x 2 with 4 Large and 6 S..., White , 2) ( 66219pr0001, Animal Body Part, Panda Head, Pixelat..., White , 2) 21159-1: The Pillager Outpost ( 19729pr0021, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Black , 1) ( 25047pr0020, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Nose ..., Light Bluish Gray , 3) ( 25047pr0022, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Nose ..., White , 3) ( 26603pr0030, Tile 2 x 3 with Pixelated Green, Tan,..., White , 3) ( 973c10h14pr5004, Torso Pixelated Plaid and Belt Print,..., Dark Red , 3) ( 973c30h12pr5006, Torso Armor, Pixelated with Gold and ..., Flat Silver , 1) 21160-1: The Illager Raid ( 19729, Minifig Head Special, Cube [Plain] , Tan , 3) ( 19729pr0025, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Dark Red , 1) ( 24008pr0004, Animal Body Part, Cat Head 1 x 2 with..., White , 1) ( 25047pr0020, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Nose ..., Light Bluish Gray , 3) ( 25767pr0004, Torso Special, Long with Folded Arms ..., Tan , 1) ( 25767pr0005, Torso Special, Long with Folded Arms ..., Tan , 1) ( 30350cpr0013, Tile Special 2 x 3 with 2 Clips with ..., Black , 2) ( 3068bpr0417, Tile 2 x 2 with Groove and Pixelated ..., White , 2) ( 3622pr0055, Brick 1 x 3 with Black Line and White..., Reddish Brown , 1) ( 973c07h14pr5007, Torso Pixelated Black, Dark Red, and ..., Dark Brown , 2) ( 973c10h14pr5004, Torso Pixelated Plaid and Belt Print,..., Dark Red , 3) ( 973c22h03pr5013, Torso Robes, Pixelated Black and Gold..., Red , 1) 21162-1: The Taiga Adventure ( 20308pr0003, Animal Body Part, Head Blocky with Pi..., Light Bluish Gray , 1) ( 24008pr0003, Animal Body Part, Cat Head 1 x 2 with..., Orange , 2) 21163-1: The Redstone Battle ( 19729pr0026, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Dark Blue , 1) ( 19729pr0027, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Magenta , 1) ( 19729pr0028, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Dark Red , 1) ( 19729pr0029, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Reddish Brown , 1) ( 26603pr0037, Tile 2 x 3 with Pixelated Dark Bluish..., Light Bluish Gray , 2) ( 26603pr0038, Tile 2 x 3 with Dark Bluish Grey/Blac..., Light Bluish Gray , 1) ( 54671, Hinge Brick 1 x 2 Locking with 2 Fing..., Dark Bluish Gray , 1) ( 65505a, Weapon Sword with Bend Tip, Pixelated , Flat Silver , 2) ( 65505b, Weapon Sickle, Pixelated , Flat Silver , 2) ( 65505c, Weapon Flail, Pixelated , Flat Silver , 2) ( 65505d, Weapon Sword Small, Pixelated , Flat Silver , 2) ( 65505e, Weapon Scythe, Pixelated , Flat Silver , 2) ( 65505f, Weapon Axe, Pixelated , Flat Silver , 2) ( 87079pr0216, Tile 2 x 4 with Pixelated Black, Red,..., Dark Bluish Gray , 1) ( 970c24, Hips and Sand Blue Legs , Red , 1) ( 973c02h19pr5169, Torso Pixelated Dark Red, Light Nouga..., Red , 1) ( 973c05h13pr5172, Torso Pixelated Red and Dark Red Scar..., Dark Blue , 1) ( 973c05h41pr5171, Torso Pixelated Dark Orange, Dark Bro..., Dark Blue , 1) ( 973c31h13pr5170, Torso Pixelated White, Dark Bluish Gr..., Light Bluish Gray , 1) 21164-1: The Coral Reef ( 19729pr0037, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Sand Green , 3) ( 19730, Helmet Rectangular , Bright Green , 2) ( 3068bpr0486, Tile 2 x 2 with Pixelated Face, Black..., Tan , 1) ( 3070bpr0242, Tile 1 x 1 with Pixelated Face, Black..., Tan , 2) ( 973c25h25pr5490, Torso Pixelated Green, Dark Brown, Da..., Reddish Brown , 3) ( 98138pr0088, Tile Round 1 x 1 with Pixelated Nauti..., Tan , 2) 21165-1: The Bee Farm ( 18791, Equipment Shovel Blocky , Pearl Gold , 2) ( 19729pr0035, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Yellow , 1) ( 25767pr0006, Torso Special, Long with Folded Arms ..., Reddish Brown , 1) ( 3068bpr0487, Tile 2 x 2 with Pixelated Honeycomb p..., Bright Light Yellow , 3) ( 3070bpr0243, Tile 1 x 1 with Pixelated Bee Face, R..., Yellow , 2) ( 3070bpr0244, Tile 1 x 1 with Pixelated Bee Face, B..., Yellow , 2) ( 73231, Wing, Pixelated Squares (Elytra) , Sand Blue , 2) ( 973c01h07pr5488, Torso Pixelated Dark Brown, Orange an..., Yellow , 1) 21167-1: The Trading Post ( 25047pr0002, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Mediu..., Blue , 1) ( 25767pr0007, Torso Special, Long with Folded Arms ..., Blue , 1) ( 3070bpr0246, Tile 1 x 1 with Pixelated Dark Brown/..., White , 2) ( 3070bpr0246, Tile 1 x 1 with Pixelated Dark Brown/..., Tan , 2) ( 3958, Plate 6 x 6 , Dark Orange , 3) ( 73233pr0001, Animal Body Part, Llama Torso and Hea..., White , 1) ( 73233pr0002, Animal Body Part, Llama Torso and Hea..., Tan , 1) 21168-1: The Warped Forest ( 19729pr0038, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Magenta , 2) ( 3004pr0070, Brick 1 x 2 with White Square Eyes print, Tan , 2) ( 3028, Plate 6 x 12 , Dark Brown , 3) ( 50340, Hinge Plate 1 x 2 Locking with 2 Fing..., Tan , 3) ( 73232pr0001, Minifig Head Special, Cube Hog with D..., Nougat , 2) ( 973c13h13pr5511, Torso Pixelated Vest and Belt, Dark B..., Reddish Brown , 2) ( 973c26h07pr5510, Torso Pixelated Tunic, Reddish Brown,..., Tan , 2) 21169-1: The First Adventure ( 19727pr0062, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Rear ..., Yellow , 1) ( 24008pr0060, Animal Body Part, Cat Head 1 x 2 with..., Medium Lavender , 1) ( 2454b, Brick 1 x 2 x 5 with Hollow Studs and..., Orange , 2) ( 4216, Brick Special 1 x 2 with Groove , Yellow , 3) ( 64799, Plate Special 4 x 4 with 2 x 2 Cutout , Blue , 2) ( 98560, Slope 75° 2 x 2 x 3 [Solid Studs] , Orange , 1) 21170-1: The Pig House ( 18791, Equipment Shovel Blocky , Pearl Gold , 2) ( 3007, Brick 2 x 8 , Bright Pink , 2) ( 3030, Plate 4 x 10 , Bright Pink , 3) ( 3460, Plate 1 x 8 , Bright Pink , 1) 21171-1: The Horse Stable ( 19729pr0039, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Red , 1) ( 25769pr0004, Animal Body Part, Horse Head 1 x 2 wi..., Black , 1) ( 25769pr0005, Animal Body Part, Horse Head 1 x 2 wi..., Medium Azure , 1) ( 33172, Plant, Carrot , Pearl Gold , 2) ( 3937, Hinge Brick 1 x 2 Base , Medium Azure , 1) ( 4216, Brick Special 1 x 2 with Groove , Medium Azure , 1) ( 78801, Weapon Trident, Blocky , Sand Green , 3) ( 973c09h02pr5616, Torso Apron, Pixelated with Reddish B..., Dark Purple , 1) 21172-1: The Ruined Portal ( 19723, Minifig Neckwear Armour Breastplate R..., Pearl Dark Gray , 2) ( 19727pr0007, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Rear ..., Dark Purple , 1) ( 3004pr0070, Brick 1 x 2 with White Square Eyes print, Tan , 2) ( 46212, Brick 1 x 2 x 5 without Side Supports , Trans-Purple , 2) 21173-1: The Sky Tower ( 19729pr0040, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Dark Orange , 2) ( 24008pr0005, Animal Body Part, Cat Head 1 x 2 with..., Bright Light Orange , 1) ( 3069bpr0333, Tile 1 x 2 with Pixelated Face / Lime..., Dark Blue , 1) ( 61252, Plate Special 1 x 1 with Clip Horizon..., Bright Light Orange , 2) ( 73231, Wing, Pixelated Squares (Elytra) , Sand Blue , 2) ( 78801, Weapon Trident, Blocky , Sand Green , 3) ( 973c46h19pr5648, Torso Vest, Pixelated with Dark Turqu..., Reddish Brown , 2) 21174-1: The Modern Treehouse ( 19729pr0042, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., White , 1) ( 19729pr0043, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Yellow , 1) ( 19729pr2282, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Trans-Light Blue , 2) ( 24008pr0006, Animal Body Part, Cat Head 1 x 2 with..., Light Bluish Gray , 1) ( 2445, Plate 2 x 12 , Medium Nougat , 2) ( 2445, Plate 2 x 12 , Dark Orange , 1) ( 3007, Brick 2 x 8 , Dark Orange , 1) ( 32278, Technic Beam 1 x 15 Thick , Reddish Brown , 3) ( 973c01h01pr5661, Torso Pixelated White Fur, Black Leop..., Yellow , 1) ( 973c03h03pr5662, Torso Pixelated Black and Grey Square..., White , 1) ( 98138pr0078, Tile Round 1 x 1 with Brown and Tan S..., Trans-Clear , 3) 21176-1: The Jungle Abomination ( 19729pr0044, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Bright Light Yellow , 1) ( 19729pr0045, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Dark Brown , 1) ( 19729pr0046, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Trans-Purple , 1) ( 19729pr0047, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., White , 1) ( 19734, Creature Torso Blocky with Cube Feet ..., Dark Purple , 1) ( 25047pr0022, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Nose ..., White , 3) ( 26603pr0030, Tile 2 x 3 with Pixelated Green, Tan,..., White , 3) ( 26603pr0037, Tile 2 x 3 with Pixelated Dark Bluish..., Light Bluish Gray , 2) ( 3001, Brick 2 x 4 , Dark Brown , 2) ( 3068bpr0541, Tile 2 x 2 with Lime/Green/Dark Green..., Reddish Brown , 1) ( 65505a, Weapon Sword with Bend Tip, Pixelated , Flat Silver , 2) ( 65505b, Weapon Sickle, Pixelated , Flat Silver , 2) ( 65505c, Weapon Flail, Pixelated , Flat Silver , 2) ( 65505d, Weapon Sword Small, Pixelated , Flat Silver , 2) ( 65505e, Weapon Scythe, Pixelated , Flat Silver , 2) ( 65505f, Weapon Axe, Pixelated , Flat Silver , 2) ( 78331, Helmet Rectangular Full Face , Flat Silver , 1) ( 87079pr0254, Tile 2 x 4 with Dark Brown Pixels, Br..., Reddish Brown , 1) ( 973c10h19pr5711, Torso Jacket, Pixelated, Tan Undershi..., Dark Red , 2) ( 973e103pr5710, Torso, Odd Arms, Dark Green, Yellow, ..., Green , 1) 21177-1: The Creeper Ambush ( 19729pr0048, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Minec..., Red , 1) ( 19734, Creature Torso Blocky with Cube Feet ..., Red , 1) ( 3069bpr0350, Tile 1 x 2 with Yellow Pixels print , Red , 1) 21178-1: The Fox Lodge ( 19729pr0037, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Sand Green , 3) ( 19729pr0041, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Orange , 1) ( 24008pr0003, Animal Body Part, Cat Head 1 x 2 with..., Orange , 2) ( 24008pr0078, Animal Body Part, Cat Head 1 x 2 with..., White , 1) ( 3003, Brick 2 x 2 , Light Nougat , 2) ( 3030, Plate 4 x 10 , Orange , 1) ( 3068bpr0299, Tile 2 x 2 with Dark Red Squares / Mi..., White , 3) ( 3068bpr0590, Tile 2 x 2 with Pixelated Map print , Tan , 2) ( 6141, Plate Round 1 x 1 with Solid Stud , Light Aqua , 2) ( 91405, Plate 16 x 16 , Sand Green , 1) ( 973c25h25pr5490, Torso Pixelated Green, Dark Brown, Da..., Reddish Brown , 3) ( 973c34h03pr5978, Torso Pixelated White Stomach Print, ..., Orange , 1) 21179-1: The Mushroom House ( 19727pr0077, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Rear ..., Red , 1) 21180-1: The Guardian Battle ( 11203pr0020, Tile Special 2 x 2 Inverted with Pixe..., Sand Green , 1) ( 19729pr0050, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Dark Bluish Gray , 1) ( 2445, Plate 2 x 12 , Dark Green , 3) ( 26603pr0080, Tile 2 x 3 with Pixelated Orange Eye ..., Tan , 1) ( 26603pr0081, Tile 2 x 3 with Pixelated Sand Green ..., Dark Blue , 1) ( 3024pr0020, Plate 1 x 1 with Black Eyes, Dark Ora..., Bright Light Orange , 2) ( 3024pr0021, Plate 1 x 1 with Black Eyes, Dark Pin..., Bright Pink , 1) ( 3024pr0022, Plate 1 x 1 with Black Eyes, Medium L..., Medium Blue , 1) ( 3795, Plate 2 x 6 , Dark Green , 3) ( 63868, Plate Special 1 x 2 with Clip Horizon..., Trans-Clear , 2) ( 78801, Weapon Trident, Blocky , Sand Green , 3) ( 86879, Animal Body Part, Axolotls (Fish) Body , Bright Light Orange , 2) ( 86879, Animal Body Part, Axolotls (Fish) Body , Medium Blue , 1) ( 86879, Animal Body Part, Axolotls (Fish) Body , Bright Pink , 1) ( 86996, Plate 1 x 1 x 2/3 with Open Stud , Olive Green , 3) ( 86996, Plate 1 x 1 x 2/3 with Open Stud , Yellowish Green , 3) ( 973c41h12pr5980, Torso Pixelated Dark Bluish Gray and ..., Dark Orange , 1) 21181-1: The Rabbit Ranch ( 19729pr0049, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Dark Turquoise , 1) ( 32001, Technic Plate 2 x 6 [5 Holes] , Green , 2) ( 35525pr0001, Animal Body Part, Rabbit Head Blocky ..., Dark Tan , 2) ( 35525pr0004, Animal Body Part, Rabbit Head Blocky ..., Black , 1) ( 973c27h14pr5959, Torso Pixelated Reddish Brown Straps,..., White , 1) 21183-1: The Training Grounds ( 19729, Minifig Head Special, Cube [Plain] , Tan , 3) ( 19729pr0051, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Black , 1) ( 19729pr0052, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Dark Purple , 1) ( 2445, Plate 2 x 12 , Dark Green , 3) ( 2453b, Brick 1 x 1 x 5 with Solid Stud , Dark Brown , 1) ( 6020, Bar 7 x 3 with Double Clips (Ladder) , Medium Nougat , 2) ( 87079, Tile 2 x 4 with Groove , Dark Brown , 2) ( 973c09h09pr6034, Torso Robes, Pixelated Black and Gold..., Dark Purple , 1) ( 973c19h22pr5953, Torso Robes, Pixelated Red Trim / Red..., Black , 1) 21184-1: The Bakery ( 01648pr0001, Animal Body Part, Goat Head 1 x 2 wit..., White , 3) ( 1127, Hat Rectangular , Yellow , 3) ( 19729pr0057, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Reddi..., Bright Green , 1) ( 25767pr0014, Torso Special, Long with Folded Arms ..., Dark Turquoise , 1) ( 3008, Brick 1 x 8 , Dark Azure , 1) ( 3068bpr0299, Tile 2 x 2 with Dark Red Squares / Mi..., White , 3) ( 973c27h19pr6170, Torso Chef Jacket, Pixelated Gold But..., White , 1) 21185-1: The Nether Bastion ( 18788, Weapon Axe Blocky , Pearl Gold , 2) ( 19119, Plant, Flower Stem with Bar and 6 Stems , Dark Red , 2) ( 19729pr0053, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Dark Turquoise , 1) ( 2431pr0185, Tile 1 x 4 with Groove and Red Orange..., Dark Red , 1) ( 26603pr0087, Tile 2 x 3 with Pixelated Eyes and Mo..., Red , 1) ( 3003, Brick 2 x 2 , Pearl Gold , 3) ( 32000, Technic Brick 1 x 2 [2 Holes] , Orange , 1) ( 41685pat0002, Plate Special 2 x 2 with Pixelated Tr..., White , 2) ( 58176, Light Cover with Internal Bar / Bioni..., Red , 2) ( 73232pr0001, Minifig Head Special, Cube Hog with D..., Nougat , 2) ( 73232pr0002, Minifig Head Special, Cube Hog with D..., Nougat , 1) ( 87580, Plate Special 2 x 2 with Groove and C..., Trans-Orange , 2) ( 91405, Plate 16 x 16 , Orange , 2) ( 973c13h13pr5511, Torso Pixelated Vest and Belt, Dark B..., Reddish Brown , 2) ( 973c46h12pr6105, Torso Pixelated Dark Turquoise, and B..., Dark Blue , 1) ( 973e116pr6146, Torso Odd Arms, Pixelated Shirt with ..., Black , 1) 21186-1: The Ice Castle ( 14716, Brick 1 x 1 x 3 , Dark Orange , 1) ( 19729pr0055, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Yeti ..., White , 1) ( 19729pr0056, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Alex ..., Orange , 1) ( 26603pr0088, Tile 2 x 3 with Pixelated Snowflake P..., Light Bluish Gray , 1) ( 3022, Plate 2 x 2 , Bright Light Blue , 3) ( 3036, Plate 6 x 8 , Medium Blue , 1) ( 3068bpr0637, Tile 2 x 2 with Pixelated Black, Lave..., Dark Purple , 1) ( 3957b, Antenna 1 x 4 with Flat Top , Yellow , 2) ( 58176, Light Cover with Internal Bar / Bioni..., Red , 2) ( 87552, Panel 1 x 2 x 2 [Side Supports / Holl..., Dark Orange , 1) ( 92438, Plate 8 x 16 , Sand Green , 1) ( 970c27pr2335, Hips and White Legs with Medium Blue ..., White , 1) ( 970c46pr2337, Hips and Dark Turquoise Legs with Pix..., Dark Turquoise , 1) ( 973c21h02pr6147, Torso, Gold/Orange/Nougat Minecraft P..., Dark Turquoise , 1) ( 973c27h05pr6139, Torso Pixelated Medium Blue Fur print..., White , 1) 21187-1: The Red Barn ( 01648pr0001, Animal Body Part, Goat Head 1 x 2 wit..., White , 3) ( 1127, Hat Rectangular , Yellow , 3) ( 18788, Weapon Axe Blocky , Medium Azure , 1) ( 19729pr0054, Minifig Head Special, Cube with Pixel..., Dark Tan , 1) ( 25767pr0013, Torso Special, Long with Folded Arms ..., Bright Light Orange , 1) ( 25769pr0006, Animal Body Part, Horse Head 1 x 2 wi..., Dark Orange , 1) ( 2639, Plate 4 x 4 Corner , Reddish Brown , 1) ( 35526, Baby / Small Body [PLAIN] , Dark Azure , 2) ( 35530pr0038, Minifig Head Special, Small Cube (Bab..., Green , 3) ( 86876, Brick Special 1 x 2 with 1 Center Stu..., Red , 2) ( 970c41, Hips and Dark Orange Legs , Sand Blue , 1) ( 973c27h12pr6131, Torso Jacket, Pixelated Dark Brown Tr..., Dark Red , 1)

Sometime ago I posted here for encouragement and tips because I wanted to take up crochet. All so I could surprise my mom and family for the holidays. It took days to do a slip knot. And I had a hard time trying to figure out how to follow along with the video guides for even chain links. I felt like a failure.
Someone suggested I try using a loom to get the overall hang of things,then try crochet again. So I got a rectangle loom, studied more video guides and tried again.
I did it, mom! I made a red and white scarf this weekend! It's not perfect but it's sturdy, soft and looks like a candy cane! I'd post a pic but the forums are not letting me for some reason. Still, I'm really proud of myself and it's taking every ounce of strength not to ruin my Christmas surprise!
I think I might be able to knit enough scarves in time for Christmas wit my family! This may not be true crochet but it's a step in the right direction. Maybe one day I can do the proper steps. Then I'd knit cool stuff like those little dolls, baby blankets or that thingy you throw over your shoulder (poncho? sarape? Afghan? I dunno the name)

Has anyone ever seen a pattern for a garment like this anywhere?
https://www.shoptiques.com/products/convertible-short-shawl-solid
I own one from a 'boutique' in a fancy shopping area in Dallas - you know the type - ... but I really want to make a second one or more. It SEEMS pretty simple but I'm ... I would say an "advanced" beginner and I don't have any interest in just *going for it* and freehanding.
I hope these photos make sense - it's essentially a rectangle with two oval holes in it and I'd be delighted in a knit or crochet pattern and would be happy to pay for said pattern as well.
I'm not even entirely certain this is what this garment is called, it's basically a vest that can be scarf-like or shawl-like or a poncho.
Thoughts??

The Upcoming ALDI Finds Ad for 10/12/22 - 10/18/22 is now available. The ad actually starts three days earlier in some stores. A list of items in each category is included below.
Bold denotes items that are new since the corresponding Aldi Finds Sneak Peek ad was published.

• Home Goods
  • Easy Home Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier - $24.99 (each)
  • Huntington Home Collapsible Seagrass Basket - $12.99 (each)
  • Huntington Home 30-Pack Velvet Hangers - $9.99 (each)
  • Huntington Home Modern Coat Rack - $49.99 (each)
  • Huntington Home Collapsible Zip Storage Box - $7.99 (each)
  • SOHL Furniture Accent Console Table - $89.99 (each)
• Kitchen
  • Crofton Large Pumpkin Casserole Dish - $14.99 (each)
  • Crofton Small or 2-Pack Mini Pumpkin Casserole Dishes - $9.99 (each)
  • Crofton Bamboo Servingware - $9.99 (each)
  • Crofton 12-Quart Porcelain Enamel Stockpot - $24.99 (each)
  • Crofton Acacia Bed Tray - $17.99 (each)
  • Crofton Stacking Stoneware Mugs - $5.99 (each)
  • Crofton Acacia Chopping Board - $9.99 (each)
• Décor
  • Huntington Home Scented Wax Melts - $1.89 (each)
  • Huntington Home Luxury 2-Wick Candle - $4.99 (each)
  • Huntington Home Harvest Reversible Porch Sign - $14.99 (each)
  • Huntington Home Fall Gel Clings - $1.99 (each)
  • Huntington Home 3-Piece Decorative Area Rug Set - $49.99 (each)
  • Huntington Home 3-Pack Pumpkins - $9.99 (each)
  • Huntington Home Candle Pedestal - $12.99 (each)
  • Huntington Home Large Faux Plant - $24.99 (each)
  • Huntington Home 2-in-1 Electric Wax Melt Warmer - $9.99 (each)
  • Huntington Home Tabletop Scarecrow - $7.99 (each)
  • Huntington Home Over-the-Door Contemporary Hooks - $12.99 (each)
  • Huntington Home Cozy Accent Pillow - $12.99 (each)
  • Huntington Home 50" x 60" Cozy Throw - $19.99 (each)
• Home Improvement
  • Easy Home USB Wall Plate or Charging Station - $14.99 (each)
  • Easy Home LED Puck Lights with Remote - $14.99 (each)
• Garden & Patio
  • 10" Foliage Assorted Varieties - $14.99 (1 ea.)
  • 2" Star Gazing Succulent Assorted Varieties - see price in store
• Sports & Outdoor Activities
  • Crane Instant Canopy - $79.99 (each)
• School & Office Supplies
  • Pokémon Halloween Calendar - $14.99 (each)
• Kids & Baby
  • Bendon Magic Ink or Mess-Free Games - $3.99 (each)
  • Cottage Door Press Finger Puppet Board Book - $4.99 (each)
  • Disney, Pixar or Marvel Wipe-Clean Activity Book - $4.99 (each)
  • Kellytoy 8" Squishmallow or Lil' Peeper - $4.99 (each)
  • Play-Doh 15-Count Halloween Pack - $4.99 (each)
  • Pumpkin Masters Pumpkin Carving & Stencil Kit - $3.89 (each)
  • SOHL Furniture Kids' Indoor Tent - $39.99 (each)
  • Little Journey Safety Gate - $29.99 (each)
• Apparel
  • Crane Men's 4-Pack Boxer Briefs - $9.99 (each)
  • Crane 2-Pack Winter Socks - $7.99 (each)
  • Lily & Dan Baby Bodysuits - $8.99 (each)
  • Serra Ladies' Booties - $16.99 (each)
  • Serra Ladies' Faux Fur Lined Booties - $14.99 (each)
  • Serra Ladies' 6-Pack Underwear - $6.99 (each)
  • Serra Ladies' Premium Jeggings - $12.99 (1 ea.)
  • Serra Ladies' Poncho - $12.99 (each)
  • Serra Ladies' 2-Pack Long-Sleeve T-Shirts - $12.99 (each)
  • Serra Ladies' 3-Piece Pajama Set - $14.99 (each)
• Pet Supplies
  • Evolve Pumpkin Spice Latte Dog Biscuits - $2.99 (12 oz.)
  • Heart to Tail Portable Travel Pet Playpen - $19.99 (each)
  • Heart to Tail Double Treat Bones Bacon & Cheese or Chicken - $5.99 (20 oz.)
  • Heart to Tail Collapsible Pet Stairs - $14.99 (each)
  • Heart to Tail Cat Tunnel or Crinkle Sack - $8.99 (each)
  • Heart to Tail Plush Pet Bed - $19.99 (each)
  • Heart to Tail Pet Flannel Shirt - $6.99 (1 ea.)
  • Heart to Tail Pet Winter Hat - $5.99 (1 ea.)
  • Heart to Tail Round or Rectangle Small Pet Bed - $14.99 (each)
  • Heart to Tail Reversible Pet Fleece Puffer Jacket - $9.99 (each)
• Alcohol
  • Pico Viejo Malbec Reserva - $9.99 (750 ml)
• Beverages
  • Dannon Danimals Halloween Smoothies - $3.18 (18.6 fl. oz.)
• Breakfast & Cereals
  • General Mills Monsters Cereal Assorted Varieties - $3.98 (15.8–18.8 oz.)
  • Kellogg's Rice Krispies Treat Kit Ghost or Pumpkin - $5.99 (8.18–8.86 oz.)
• Deli
  • Mama Cozzi's Pizza Kitchen Meatball or Sausage Deli Calzone - $2.29 (7 oz.)
  • Never Any! Chipotle or Cranberry Chicken Sausage - $4.59 (12 oz.)
  • Priano Ravioli Assorted Varieties - $1.89 (8.8 oz.)
• Frozen Foods
  • Bremer Cheese Lasagna Rolls - $6.99 (32 oz.)
  • Fusia Asian Inspirations Shrimp Fried Rice or Shrimp Lo Mein - $4.99 (20 oz.)
  • Mama Cozzi's Pizza Kitchen Italian Style Mini Pizzas Margherita or Spinach - $3.49 (11.4 oz.)
  • Mama Cozzi's Pizza Kitchen Premium Tavern Cheese or Supreme Pizza - $5.99 (20.40–25.55 oz.)
  • Mama Cozzi's Pizza Kitchen Pepperoni or Buffalo Chicken Stromboli - $2.99 (8.5 oz.)
  • Priano Breaded Veal Patties - $9.99 (27 oz.)
  • Priano Restaurant Style Meatballs - $4.99 (20 oz.)
  • Priano Parmesan Chicken - $8.99 (24 oz.)
  • SeaMazz Orange Roughy - $9.99 (12 oz.)
  • Season's Choice Country Style Fries - $2.89 (24.0 oz.)
  • Specially Selected Shrimp & Crab Ravioli - $4.49 (20 oz.)
  • Specially Selected Tiramisu or Profiteroles - $6.99 (15.87–17.64 oz.)
  • Sundae Shoppe Vanilla or Chocolate Biscotti Gelato Dipped Sandwiches - $3.49 (9.7 oz.)
• Fresh Meat & Seafood
  • Fresh Lamb Shoulder Chops - $7.99 (per lb.)
  • Fresh Seasoned Boneless Pork Loin Roast - $2.99 (per lb.)
• Pantry Essentials
  • Priano Bronze Cut Bucatini - $1.89 (16 oz.)
  • Simply Nature Stir-in Paste Assorted Varieties - $2.79 (2.8 oz.)
  • Specially Selected Goat Cheese Risotto Assorted Varieties - $2.49 (6.5 oz.)
  • Stonemill Italian Grinder Assorted Varieties - $3.99 (7.9–10.9 oz.)
• Snacks
  • Benton's Mini Palmiers Original or Dark Chocolate - $2.49 (6.53–7.94 oz.)
  • Clancy's Cheesy Garlic Bread Potato Chips - $1.99 (9.5 oz.)
  • Hostess Scary Cakes - $3.48 (12.7 oz.)
  • In the Mix Halloween Skulls or Eyeball Cookie Kit - $2.99 (9.2–9.68 oz.)
  • Priano Chocolate Wafers - $2.99 (8.8 oz.)
  • Priano Italian Style Cookies Assorted Varieties - $3.29 (7.05 oz.)
  • Priano Glazed Puff Pastries - $2.49 (7.055 oz.)
• Household Essentials
  • Easy Home Jumbo Mop or Angled Broom - $9.99 (each)
  • Easy Home 2-Step Folding Step Stool - $19.99 (1 ea.)

Corresponding Sneak Peek Ad post: (US) Aldi Finds Sneak Peek for 10/9/22 (10/12/22 in some stores)
Previous Aldi Finds ad: (US) Upcoming ALDI Finds for 10/05/22 (10/2/22 in some stores)
Archived Aldi Ad

I’m stuck in square and rectangle land. I want to branch out but I look at these patterns and chicken out. Last year I chose a poncho but I cheaped out on the yarn and the drape was so bad it was like a battle shield. Literally stuck straight out from the neck - my kid and I danced around in it laughing. It was silly and so fun but I still felt frustrated. I knew it was bad halfway through the project but made myself finish it just to work through the perfectionism. I’ve been looking for a mentor and I figure this whole thing is a moment for personal growth. That’s all great but HOW do I gain courage to tackle something scary? I love knitting and won’t give up but there are only so many scarves and wraps you can make.

OH HALP!
The yarn is discontinued and I stupidly miscalculated my project. I need maybe half a ball to finish 😩 I’ve tried Ravelry but no one is selling. I’m in Canada. Amazon isn’t possible and Wtsy and EBay have to not only ship to Canada but the price has to be decent because the US dollar is murder to us Canadians. I’m pretty much screwed so I’m hoping someone here has one. Do you have one I can buy?!
I’m making the most beautiful beach poncho ever. I spent months figuring out what I wanted to do with my yarn, looking at patterns and different stitches to best figure out the best way to show off the beauty of the yarn. I finally settled on making Annie’s 3 rectangle poncho with alterations to size and I did the entire thing in moss stitch. It’s GORGEOUS. I’m so proud. I wanted it BIG so I can use it as a sweater, blanket or cover up to change on the beach. So far, this thing is huge. Alas: it remains incomplete.

OH HALP!
The yarn is discontinued and I stupidly miscalculated my project. I need maybe half a ball to finish 😩 I’ve tried Ravelry but no one is selling. I’m in Canada. Do you have one I can buy?!
I’m making the most beautiful beach poncho ever. I spent months figuring out what I wanted to do with my yarn, looking at patterns and different stitches to best figure out the best way to show off the beauty of the yarn. I finally settled on making Annie’s 3 rectangle poncho with alterations to size and I did the entire thing in moss stitch. It’s GORGEOUS. I’m so proud. I wanted it BIG so I can use it as a sweater, blanket or cover up to change on the beach. So far, this thing is huge. Alas: it remains incomplete.