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Unveiling the Surging Tide: Exploring the Dynamic Betaines Market
2024.05.07 13:24 Vivid-Spread1007 Unveiling the Surging Tide: Exploring the Dynamic Betaines Market
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2024.05.04 01:44 Mrmander20 [Vell Harlan and the Doomsday Dorms] 4 C4.3: The Money Trap
At the world’s top college of magic and technology, every day brings a new discovery -and a new disaster. The advanced experiments of the college students tend to be both ambitious and apocalyptic, with the end of the world only prevented by a mysterious time loop, and a small handful of students who retain their memories.
Surviving the loops was hard enough, but now, in his senior year, Vell Harlan must take charge of them, and deal with the fact that the whole world now knows his secrets. Everyone knows about Vell’s death and resurrection, along with the divine game he is a part of. Now Vell must contend with overly curious scientists and evil billionaires hungry for divine power while the daily doomsday cycle bombards him with terrorists, talking elephants, and the Grim Reaper himself -but if he can endure it all, the Last Goddess’s game promises the ultimate prize: power over life itself.
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“That was a spectacular failure,” Helena said. Elizah had stepped away to answer a phone call, giving them a little time to strategize.
“Goldie ruined everything, that’s hardly my fault,” Alex said.
“It was a conceptually bad idea,” Helena said. “Your department pumps out random esoteric bullshit that only turns a profit every few years. People like Elizah want money. Easy money.”
“Plebeians,” Alex muttered.
“Predictable plebeians,” Helena said. “We need to show her a flashy new phone or some new motor for sports cars, the kind of thing that sells quickly and easily.”
“This is an institute of higher learning, not a tech expo,” Alex protested.
“People like her don’t see it that way,” Helena chided. “If you want to get anywhere, you need to learn to tell them what they want to hear.”
“I’ll leave the blatant manipulation to you,” Alex said.
“Good, you’d be terrible at it anyway,” Helena said. “Follow me and keep your mouth shut.”
Helena led the way -at her own pace. She wasn’t exactly a sprinter. Or a power walker. Or a regular walker. Elizah got sick of following along after a few minutes.
“I don’t want to be rude, but can we pick up the pace a little?”
“Bad news: that was rude,” Helena said. “More bad news: no. I’m sorry that I’m a bit slow, but the thing is my skeleton isn’t shaped right. Do you want to take my word for that, or do I need to show you an x-ray?”
Elizah got quiet after that, and Helena recognized the look of someone calculating a potential disability lawsuit. Apparently the math on whatever ableist comment she wanted to make didn’t add up, and Elizah decided not to risk it. She followed behind in taciturn silence as Helena stomped her way across campus. Eventually, they arrived at the communications building, and made their way to the lab where new cell phones were being built.
The arrival of unexpected guests did not cause much of a ripple in the lab, except for one of its residents: Hawke Hughes. He stopped what he was doing and tried to shuffle over to Helena and Alex inconspicuously. He failed.
“What are you guys doing here? Do you need something?”
“I know this is a herculean task for you, Hawke, but stop worrying,” Helena said. “I’m just showing Ms. Song here our latest innovations in communications tech, the kind of things that will end up in the next iPhone.”
“Oh. Yeah, we’re working on something like that,” Hawke said. “It’s not exactly a big flashy technology, or anything-”
“I spent ten minutes walking here,” Elizah said. “Show me what I came to see.”
“Ho boy,” Hawke said. “I suppose we could set up a test run. You guys ready?”
Hawke turned to his compatriots in the comms department, who were already making preparations. The other students brought out two test phones that lacked cases, exposing the circuity and wiring within, and hooked them up to two matching monitors across the room. Eliza stood between them and turned to look at both the monitors in turn.
“Alright, this data transfer should let us move multiple terabytes in a matter of seconds,” Hawke said. Elizah nodded. She didn’t know how much a terabyte actually was, but she knew it was big, so that sounded impressive.
“We’re ready to go in three, two, one…”
Another student counted down, and a third student flipped a switch. A massive pdf file appeared on the first monitor, then jumped to the second monitor almost instantly, and the student who’d done the countdown started scrolling through it.
“Looks like...we lost some data in the transfer,” she said. “That’s weird.”
“That is weird,” Hawke said. “We shouldn’t be seeing any loss.”
Elizah rolled her eyes and took a seat at the side of the room while Hawke’s fellow students tried to untangle the situation.
“Run it again, maybe it’s an equipment malfunction.”
The experiment repeated, and this time every bit of data was transferred without incident. Hawke scrolled through a data log and tried to identify a point of failure in the first experiment, but could not find anything.
“Hmm. Might have to take this for a few rounds of testing,” Hawke said. “I wonder what changed…”
“Well, Elizah wasn’t standing between your computers, for one thing,” Helena said.
She’d meant it as a joke. No one looked amused, Elizah least of all.
“What are you implying?”
“We haven’t actually tested this new kind of transfer on hu- on, uh, physical interference yet,” Hawke said. “Lots of materials can interrupt, muffle, or intercept certain frequencies and-”
“Are you implying that some of your data is stuck inside me?”
“No, no, that’s not feasible,” Hawke said. “It’s much more likely you just muffled the frequency, like soundproof foam. It doesn’t capture and store the sound, just helps lower the frequency and-”
One of the other comms students walked up and pressed a phone into the side of Elizah’s stomach. The phone made a beeping noise.
“Yeah, it was inside her.”
“Inside- get it out,” Elizah demanded.
“Relax, I just did.”
“Where was it?”
“Kidney, somehow,” the student said with a shrug. “That’s going to be a puzzler for the biology department. Apparently a kidney can store at least three point one gigabytes.”
“That’s horrifying!”
“Are you kidding me?” Another student added. “We just figured out a way to encode and transmit information via human tissue. With a little research, this could be a Nobel Prize contender.”
“Are you serious?”
“Yeah. We better get started,” the student said. “I wonder if I could download a movie directly to my brain.”
“Going to need something with a little more storage space for that one, bud.”
“Right, we should upload it up your ass.”
The students started laughing among themselves, and got back to work while Elizah fumed on the sidelines. She poked herself in the kidney once or twice, to check for anything unhealthy, and then stormed out of the room.
“Excellent work, Helena,” Alex whispered as they left the room.
“How the hell was I supposed to know that would happen?” Helena grunted. “Your ‘peers’ have a pattern of idiotic behavior you should’ve predicted, that was completely random!”
“Vell says you should always expect the unexpected on this campus.”
“Oh, of course, Vell Harlan, the one person everyone on this campus is so obsessed with, he-”
Helena stopped mid-sentence. She let out a low groan and a deep sigh.
“Vell Harlan,” she said.
***
Vell read the texts from Hawke, then put his phone down and got back to carving a rune. Apparently their plan was not going quite so well as they had hoped. Vell just wanted to get his homework done before it got any worse. Luckily he carved fast, because things were also getting worse fast.
Vell stood up to answer a knock at his door, and stared blankly at Helena, Alex, and Eliza.
“Can I help you?” Vell said, through gritted teeth.
“Well, we just wanted to introduce Ms. Song here to one of the school’s most valued students,” Helena said. Elizah barely let her get through the introduction before shoving herself to the front of the trio and all the way through Vell’s barely-open door.
“Hi, Elizah Song, I’m a financial auditor for the Einstein-Odinson Board of Directors, I would love to talk to you for a minute,” she said. She did a very poor job of hiding the desperation in her voice. Vell glared at the two new loopers for a second, but relented. From what they had said, the attempt to convince Elizah of the school’s value was going poorly. Now they expected Vell to salvage it. The Board of Directors wanted money, but what they wanted above all else was immortality, a way to escape the inevitability of death, and Vell could possibly provide that.
“I can talk,” Vell said. “A little.”
“Great, where would you say you’re at on the whole rune research, Quenay’s riddle, meaning of life sort of thing?”
“I’m not really making much headway on it,” Vell said.
“Oh, why not, any particular obstacles?”
“The fact that I’m not working on it much, for starters,” Vell said.
“Oh, I understand if you want to keep your methodology under wraps,” Elizah said.
“I’m telling the truth,” Vell said. “I don’t really plan on working on it until I’m out of school.”
Elizah looked shellshocked. Helena looked about ready to club him with a crutch. Alex retained her usual look of disinterest, as she did not really care about any of this.
“You have the key to the world’s most important scientific breakthrough on your back and you’re procrastinating?”
“I’m prioritizing,” Vell said. “I still have to finish my classes here, you know, I want to get a degree.”
“You could be a billionaire!”
“I don’t want to be a billionaire, I want to be a scientist,” Vell said. “Besides, I could be a billionaire later too. Quenay never specified a time limit.”
“Some of us might be working on a deadline,” Helena said, injecting some extra venom into the word “dead”. Vell looked remorseful for a second, but swallowed the regret.
“Well, there’s a lot of reasons putting it off is the right decision,” Vell said. “Among other things, this school is a public facility, so people keep invading my privacy.”
Vell looked very pointedly at the three intruders in his dorm. None of them got the point.
“Look, kid, there’s a thirty-million dollar bounty just for getting a status update on your work,” Elizah said. “I could retire with just a rumor about your work, and you’re not even doing it? Do you realize how much money you’re missing out on?”
“I know exactly how much money I’m missing, I had to block a lot of emails and phone numbers from your bosses about it,” Vell said.
Elizah grit her teeth. She kept trying to bring up money, and money kept not working. Thanks to her corporate position, it had been about twenty years since she’d interacted with anybody who wouldn’t sell their children for the right price. She had no idea how to appeal to a person who still had a soul.
“Hold on, give me a second,” Elizah said. Vell was perfectly happy to let her not talk for a while. The temporary delay even provided a much-needed distraction in the form of Skye wandering into Vell’s dorm.
“Hey Vell, could you help me open a jar? I wouldn’t normally ask, but you see-”
Skye looked up and saw the three non-Vell occupants of Vell’s dorm. She waved hello.
“Oh. Hi. Didn’t know you had guests.”
The three “guests” stared right back at Skye, and specifically the arm she was using to wave at them.
“Skye,” Vell began. “Why do you have a crab claw?”
Skye was waving at them with a brown, chitinous appendage where a human forearm should’ve been. She looked down at her mutated arm, clicked the pincer once, and then shrugged.
“Because I turned it into one,” Skye said nonchalantly. “What, you think this kind of stable mutation happens on accident?”
“Well…”
“That was one time,” Skye said. “This was on purpose, and it is perfectly safe. It’s super inconvenient for opening jars, though, so come on, help a girl out. I really want a pickle.”
Vell took the jar and popped it open with a minimal amount of effort, and considered that a win for his masculinity. Skye happily pincered a pickle and chowed down on it with visible delight.
“So, I’m done interrupting,” Skye said. She waved a pickle juice covered crab claw at the three intruders. “I’ll let you get back to your whatever it was.”
“Why on earth did you give yourself a crab claw?” Elizah asked.
“I wanted to see if I could,” Skye said.
“You mutated yourself just to see if you could?”
“Well, obviously, who else was I supposed to mutate?”
Skye used the claw to grab another pickle and take a bite out of it. Elizah stared at her.
“Is that permanent?”
“No, it’ll molt off in a few hours,” Skye said.
“Molt? As in fall off?”
“It’s mostly painless,” Skye said. “I had to pop an ibuprofen or two for the first couple mutations, but nowadays I barely feel it.”
“You’ve- before-”
Elizah clutched at her chest and leaned against the nearest wall. She let out a strained groan of distress so severe that Vell actually started to worry she was having a heart attack. The groan ended, and Elizah shambled over to Alex and Helena with a dead-eyed glare.
“The two of you have dragged me to three different places,” Elizah said. “And in three different places, everyone I’ve seen has been dangerous, idiotic, and, worst of all, fiscally irresponsible!”
Vell felt like one of those things was not like the other, but Eliza seemed like she wasn’t in the mood for color commentary.
“This place doesn’t just need its budget cut, it needs to be wiped off the face of the earth,” Elizah snapped. “And god willing, all you psychopaths will go with it.”
Elizah stormed out and slammed the door shut so hard the guitar leaning against Vell’s wall rattled. He made sure the guitar was safe and then glared at his two new comrades.
“Good job, guys,” Vell said.
“She’s all talk,” Alex said. “She couldn’t actually get this school shut down. It’s too valuable.”
“She’s the person in charge of saying how valuable it is, you fucking idiot,” Helena said. “If she tells the Board this place is a money pit, they might believe her.”
“They won’t shut down the world’s most prestigious school overnight because of one whining woman,” Alex said.
“No, but they’ll sure as hell slash our budget to oblivion,” Vell said. “And that means experiments getting canceled, professors losing jobs, students getting expelled, you name it.”
The idea of students getting expelled did seem to sting Alex, if only because she was well aware she’d be one of the first on the chopping block.
“Just get out of my dorm,” Vell said. He pulled out his phone and started frantically texting Hawke. “Maybe if we block her phone we can pull off a hail mary before she leaves the island. Skye, can you tell Kim to start grabbing people? We need some good examples.”
“Try not to bring Freddy or his crew,” Helena said. “We-”
“I know,” Vell said. He turned his back on the duo and kept texting while Skye started sending messages as well. After a few seconds of being ignored, the two young loopers got the picture and walked out together.
“Excellent work, Helena,” Alex said.
“Shut it. This was Vell’s plan,” Helena said. “Luckily for us, I have something more...effective, in mind.”
Helena walked away with a smile on her face. Alex briefly considered going back into the dorm to warn Vell, but decided against it. Vell was the leader of the team, it was his job to keep his followers in line. If he failed to do so, that was his own fault.
***
Vell had a lot of literal followers this time, though he was keeping them in more of a mob than a line. Kim had assembled their smartest, and more importantly, safest students for one final show of force to Elizah Song. Hopefully some life saving medicines and therapeutic techniques would sway her opinion back in the right direction.
“Okay, you all just stay here and stand still,” Vell said. “Nobody make any sudden moves, she might, uh, still be a little tense.”
The surgeons at the front of the group nodded. Of all people, Vell trusted them to have steady nerves.
“I’m going to go talk to Elizah,” Vell said. “You guys stay here, at a safe distance.”
They were a few dozen yards away from the teleportation center, and Vell could see Eliza waiting for the transit portal to re-open. She seemed agitated just by the sight of the large crowd of students, and Vell didn’t want to alarm her any further. He approached alone and made sure to keep his hands in sight as Elizah put her back against a wall.
“Stay away from me,” she demanded. “I’m not putting up with one more second of this nonsense.”
“I know, I know, you kind of got off on the wrong foot with this campus,” Vell said. “And I won’t lie, there is the occasional bit of weird, dangerous stuff around here. But I promise you, for every odd experiment there’s a dozen more that help, and heal, and improve people’s lives.”
“I don’t care,” Elizah said. “This island is full of psychopaths, and it’s a miracle it hasn’t destroyed itself yet.”
“Well, that's, uh,” Vell stammered. “We have surprisingly good safety protocols.”
“The safest thing this school can do is stop existing,” Eliza said. “And I’m going to- oh hell.”
Vell looked over his shoulder to check on the crowd of followers, and saw that everyone he’d brought along was behaving. Unfortunately, someone he’d deliberately not brought along was there too. Helena was walking up to Elizah and Vell with a determined glare in her bright blue eyes.
“Helena, what are you doing?”
“Just talking,” Helena said. “Hello again, Elizah.”
“What is it this time?” Elizah snapped. “You have someone who can pull my heart out of my chest and show it to me?”
“We do, actually, but she’s not here right now,” Helena said. “I just wanted to come to you and be honest with you about this school. Because frankly, I agree with you.”
Vell and Elizah both looked at her with confusion. Helena let go of one of her crutches and leaned against the wall.
“This school is full of dangerous, unhinged lunatics,” Helena said. “You are one hundred percent right about that. You’re even mostly right that it might be better off getting shut down. Except for the part where you’re not thinking about what comes next.”
Elizah narrowed her eyes suspiciously and waited for Helena to continue.
“For starters, this school has had only one truly life-threatening incident in the past few decades, and that incident was caused by a principal abducting Vell, not by one of the students,” Helena said. “So clearly, despite their inherent danger, something about the structure of this facility is keeping those potential threats in check. In the event of a school shutdown, or even just a budget reduction, all of these unhinged lunatics are going to keep being unhinged lunatics, but you risk removing whatever structure is keeping them at least mostly contained.”
Elizah curiously scanned what little she could see of the island, and the crowd arrayed in front of her. Helena had a point about general safety. While there was occasional minor injury or property destruction, no one had ever gotten seriously hurt at the Einstein-Odinson. That she knew of, at least.
“Oh, and the second thing you’re failing to consider, and perhaps the more important part,” Helena said. “All these people, they’re going to be dangerous and unhinged no matter where they are, we’ve established that, yes?”
“Yes,” Elizah said, somewhat fearfully.
“So let’s say you shut down the school, or even just get a few of them expelled,” Helena continued. “The thing is, they’re not going to have anywhere to go. Or anything to do. But they are going to have someone to blame.”
Helena stood next to Elizah and waved her free hand in the direction of the crowd outside. They could see dozens of students, and Eliza could see dozens of potential threats.
“Imagine all those dangerous people, knowing that their future, their dreams, have been ripped away from them,” Helena said. “And imagine that all of them know it’s all your fault.”
For the second time today, Vell worried that Elizah’s heart had stopped. The auditor froze on the spot as her face went pale, and she broke into a cold sweat. Helena gave her a pat on the shoulder, retrieved her crutch, and started to walk away as the portal came to life behind Elizah.
“So, uh,” Vell began. “There’s also a guy pioneering new heart surgery techniques, if you-”
Elizah turned on her heel and walked directly through the portal without a word.
“Okay, bye,” Vell mumbled.
***
“Well, I must congratulate you,” Dean Lichman said. “I just got word that the school’s budget has actually been increased.”
“Well, uh, it was nothing, you know,” Vell said. “Helena and Alex did all the legwork.”
The two of them beamed with entirely unearned pride. Vell didn’t want to give them credit, considering how badly things had gone off the rails, but he also could not tell the Dean that Helena had essentially threatened the auditor into complying. The school was still funded, and that was what mattered, no matter how many implied death threats it took to get there.
“And your friends even managed to disarm that basement full of traps. Which is as relieving as it is frustrating,” Dean Lichman said. “Here I am trying to scrape together sufficient funds, and some past dean had enough budget lying around to order several thousand battle axes and bear traps.”
“And a few eels,” Hawke added.
“Well eels are surprisingly cheap,” Dean Lichman said, without elaborating how or why he knew that. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I should direct this funding to some school services. Thank you again, and enjoy the rest of your day.”
Dean Lichman trod off to attend to some much needed refinancing, leaving the loopers to their own devices yet again. Vell breathed a sigh of relief.
“Alright, last minute success is still a success,” Vell said. “Even if it was a little…”
“Unorthodox?”
“I was going to say unethical, actually,” Vell said. “Like, uh, flagrantly. I’m pretty sure what you did is actually illegal in some places, Helena.”
“But not in this place,” Helena said. “Benefits of international waters.”
“So you just know that, offhand,” Samson said. “Was that the first thing you looked up here? What all you can get away with?”
“It wasn’t the first thing, but obviously I studied the local laws,” Helena said. “When in Rome.”
Samson looked like he had another comment ready, but Vell cut him off by raising a hand.
“Why don’t the rest of you go finish disarming the booby traps and getting the components somewhere safe,” Vell said. “I’ll have a talk with Helena.”
The rest of the loopers shuffled off, leaving Vell and Helena alone. She didn’t even wait for him to start talking before rolling her eyes.
“Lord spare me from sanctimonious lectures,” Helena said.
“It’s not a lecture-”
“It’s always a lecture, Vell.”
“If it’s a lecture, it’s deserved,” Vell said. “You threatened a mostly innocent woman!”
“Oh, you have no idea what she’s guilty of,” Helena said. “In case you’ve forgotten, I’m terminally ill, in a way that is very expensive to treat. I was eight years old the first time someone told me my life was worth less than a stack of paper, and every few months since then, I have had to persuade, manipulate, guilt-trip, and yes, occasionally threaten, some greedy corporate whore, just like Elizah, who wants a new boat more than they want me to be alive.”
“Uh…”
“And besides, you got what you wanted, right?” Helena continued. “Me and Alex scared off the bitch. Mission accomplished.”
“That, uh, was not the plan,” Vell stammered.
“Vell, I’m not an idiot, you didn’t put me on the frontlines for my winning personality,” Helena said. “Even if I was dumb enough to believe that, nobody’s fucking stupid enough to think Alex would be part of the charm squad.”
“That wasn’t the, uh, the whole picture, you-”
“Jesus christ, how did Joan not figure out you were the guy with the rune sooner,” Helena said, looking more disgusted with every word. “You can’t lie to save your ass.”
“I lie to save lots of asses literally every day!”
“So why aren’t you any good at it?” Helena scoffed. “Look, Vell, I don’t make a habit of threatening people. You spare me the lecture, I won’t tell Alex you used her as outrage bait. Can you imagine how insufferable it’d be if she knew?”
“Aren’t you threatening me right now?”
“No, this is a deal, not a threat,” Helena said.
“But your side of the deal is that you won’t do something threatening to me,” Vell said.
“God, be pedantic about it if you want, is it a deal or not?”
“Fine. It’s a deal.”
“Excellent. Hope we’ve all learned a valuable lesson today,” Helena said, as she stood to leave.
“And that lesson is?”
Helena pivoted on her crutches to glare in Vell’s direction.
“That I’m smarter than my sister, Vell,” Helena said. “You can’t fool me.”
She walked out and slammed the door behind her. Vell rolled his eyes, packed up his things, and headed for the basement where the remnants of the traps were located. As he had predicted, Alex had not stuck around to help, leaving him some room to talk freely.
“Bad news, everyone,” Vell said, voice dripping with sarcasm. “Helena figured out our plan.”
“Oh no,” Kim said mockingly. “Saw right through our plan to use her and Alex as bait, right?”
“Yep,” Vell said.
“And what about our actual plan?” Samson said. “Any sign she’s onto that?”
“Fucking clueless,” Vell said. He and his friends shared a quick, conspiratorial chuckle.
Helena was right. She actually was smarter than Joan -smart enough to know a scheme when she saw one. But she was also more arrogant than even Joan had ever been. Too arrogant to think there might be a second scheme running right underneath the first one she spotted.
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Surviving the loops was hard enough, but now, in his senior year, Vell Harlan must take charge of them, and deal with the fact that the whole world now knows his secrets. Everyone knows about Vell’s death and resurrection, along with the divine game he is a part of. Now Vell must contend with overly curious scientists and evil billionaires hungry for divine power while the daily doomsday cycle bombards him with terrorists, talking elephants, and the Grim Reaper himself -but if he can endure it all, the Last Goddess’s game promises the ultimate prize: power over life itself.
[Previous Chapter][Patreon][Cover Art][Next Chapter]
“That was a spectacular failure,” Helena said. Elizah had stepped away to answer a phone call, giving them a little time to strategize.
“Goldie ruined everything, that’s hardly my fault,” Alex said.
“It was a conceptually bad idea,” Helena said. “Your department pumps out random esoteric bullshit that only turns a profit every few years. People like Elizah want money. Easy money.”
“Plebeians,” Alex muttered.
“Predictable plebeians,” Helena said. “We need to show her a flashy new phone or some new motor for sports cars, the kind of thing that sells quickly and easily.”
“This is an institute of higher learning, not a tech expo,” Alex protested.
“People like her don’t see it that way,” Helena chided. “If you want to get anywhere, you need to learn to tell them what they want to hear.”
“I’ll leave the blatant manipulation to you,” Alex said.
“Good, you’d be terrible at it anyway,” Helena said. “Follow me and keep your mouth shut.”
Helena led the way -at her own pace. She wasn’t exactly a sprinter. Or a power walker. Or a regular walker. Elizah got sick of following along after a few minutes.
“I don’t want to be rude, but can we pick up the pace a little?”
“Bad news: that was rude,” Helena said. “More bad news: no. I’m sorry that I’m a bit slow, but the thing is my skeleton isn’t shaped right. Do you want to take my word for that, or do I need to show you an x-ray?”
Elizah got quiet after that, and Helena recognized the look of someone calculating a potential disability lawsuit. Apparently the math on whatever ableist comment she wanted to make didn’t add up, and Elizah decided not to risk it. She followed behind in taciturn silence as Helena stomped her way across campus. Eventually, they arrived at the communications building, and made their way to the lab where new cell phones were being built.
The arrival of unexpected guests did not cause much of a ripple in the lab, except for one of its residents: Hawke Hughes. He stopped what he was doing and tried to shuffle over to Helena and Alex inconspicuously. He failed.
“What are you guys doing here? Do you need something?”
“I know this is a herculean task for you, Hawke, but stop worrying,” Helena said. “I’m just showing Ms. Song here our latest innovations in communications tech, the kind of things that will end up in the next iPhone.”
“Oh. Yeah, we’re working on something like that,” Hawke said. “It’s not exactly a big flashy technology, or anything-”
“I spent ten minutes walking here,” Elizah said. “Show me what I came to see.”
“Ho boy,” Hawke said. “I suppose we could set up a test run. You guys ready?”
Hawke turned to his compatriots in the comms department, who were already making preparations. The other students brought out two test phones that lacked cases, exposing the circuity and wiring within, and hooked them up to two matching monitors across the room. Eliza stood between them and turned to look at both the monitors in turn.
“Alright, this data transfer should let us move multiple terabytes in a matter of seconds,” Hawke said. Elizah nodded. She didn’t know how much a terabyte actually was, but she knew it was big, so that sounded impressive.
“We’re ready to go in three, two, one…”
Another student counted down, and a third student flipped a switch. A massive pdf file appeared on the first monitor, then jumped to the second monitor almost instantly, and the student who’d done the countdown started scrolling through it.
“Looks like...we lost some data in the transfer,” she said. “That’s weird.”
“That is weird,” Hawke said. “We shouldn’t be seeing any loss.”
Elizah rolled her eyes and took a seat at the side of the room while Hawke’s fellow students tried to untangle the situation.
“Run it again, maybe it’s an equipment malfunction.”
The experiment repeated, and this time every bit of data was transferred without incident. Hawke scrolled through a data log and tried to identify a point of failure in the first experiment, but could not find anything.
“Hmm. Might have to take this for a few rounds of testing,” Hawke said. “I wonder what changed…”
“Well, Elizah wasn’t standing between your computers, for one thing,” Helena said.
She’d meant it as a joke. No one looked amused, Elizah least of all.
“What are you implying?”
“We haven’t actually tested this new kind of transfer on hu- on, uh, physical interference yet,” Hawke said. “Lots of materials can interrupt, muffle, or intercept certain frequencies and-”
“Are you implying that some of your data is stuck inside me?”
“No, no, that’s not feasible,” Hawke said. “It’s much more likely you just muffled the frequency, like soundproof foam. It doesn’t capture and store the sound, just helps lower the frequency and-”
One of the other comms students walked up and pressed a phone into the side of Elizah’s stomach. The phone made a beeping noise.
“Yeah, it was inside her.”
“Inside- get it out,” Elizah demanded.
“Relax, I just did.”
“Where was it?”
“Kidney, somehow,” the student said with a shrug. “That’s going to be a puzzler for the biology department. Apparently a kidney can store at least three point one gigabytes.”
“That’s horrifying!”
“Are you kidding me?” Another student added. “We just figured out a way to encode and transmit information via human tissue. With a little research, this could be a Nobel Prize contender.”
“Are you serious?”
“Yeah. We better get started,” the student said. “I wonder if I could download a movie directly to my brain.”
“Going to need something with a little more storage space for that one, bud.”
“Right, we should upload it up your ass.”
The students started laughing among themselves, and got back to work while Elizah fumed on the sidelines. She poked herself in the kidney once or twice, to check for anything unhealthy, and then stormed out of the room.
“Excellent work, Helena,” Alex whispered as they left the room.
“How the hell was I supposed to know that would happen?” Helena grunted. “Your ‘peers’ have a pattern of idiotic behavior you should’ve predicted, that was completely random!”
“Vell says you should always expect the unexpected on this campus.”
“Oh, of course, Vell Harlan, the one person everyone on this campus is so obsessed with, he-”
Helena stopped mid-sentence. She let out a low groan and a deep sigh.
“Vell Harlan,” she said.
***
Vell read the texts from Hawke, then put his phone down and got back to carving a rune. Apparently their plan was not going quite so well as they had hoped. Vell just wanted to get his homework done before it got any worse. Luckily he carved fast, because things were also getting worse fast.
Vell stood up to answer a knock at his door, and stared blankly at Helena, Alex, and Eliza.
“Can I help you?” Vell said, through gritted teeth.
“Well, we just wanted to introduce Ms. Song here to one of the school’s most valued students,” Helena said. Elizah barely let her get through the introduction before shoving herself to the front of the trio and all the way through Vell’s barely-open door.
“Hi, Elizah Song, I’m a financial auditor for the Einstein-Odinson Board of Directors, I would love to talk to you for a minute,” she said. She did a very poor job of hiding the desperation in her voice. Vell glared at the two new loopers for a second, but relented. From what they had said, the attempt to convince Elizah of the school’s value was going poorly. Now they expected Vell to salvage it. The Board of Directors wanted money, but what they wanted above all else was immortality, a way to escape the inevitability of death, and Vell could possibly provide that.
“I can talk,” Vell said. “A little.”
“Great, where would you say you’re at on the whole rune research, Quenay’s riddle, meaning of life sort of thing?”
“I’m not really making much headway on it,” Vell said.
“Oh, why not, any particular obstacles?”
“The fact that I’m not working on it much, for starters,” Vell said.
“Oh, I understand if you want to keep your methodology under wraps,” Elizah said.
“I’m telling the truth,” Vell said. “I don’t really plan on working on it until I’m out of school.”
Elizah looked shellshocked. Helena looked about ready to club him with a crutch. Alex retained her usual look of disinterest, as she did not really care about any of this.
“You have the key to the world’s most important scientific breakthrough on your back and you’re procrastinating?”
“I’m prioritizing,” Vell said. “I still have to finish my classes here, you know, I want to get a degree.”
“You could be a billionaire!”
“I don’t want to be a billionaire, I want to be a scientist,” Vell said. “Besides, I could be a billionaire later too. Quenay never specified a time limit.”
“Some of us might be working on a deadline,” Helena said, injecting some extra venom into the word “dead”. Vell looked remorseful for a second, but swallowed the regret.
“Well, there’s a lot of reasons putting it off is the right decision,” Vell said. “Among other things, this school is a public facility, so people keep invading my privacy.”
Vell looked very pointedly at the three intruders in his dorm. None of them got the point.
“Look, kid, there’s a thirty-million dollar bounty just for getting a status update on your work,” Elizah said. “I could retire with just a rumor about your work, and you’re not even doing it? Do you realize how much money you’re missing out on?”
“I know exactly how much money I’m missing, I had to block a lot of emails and phone numbers from your bosses about it,” Vell said.
Elizah grit her teeth. She kept trying to bring up money, and money kept not working. Thanks to her corporate position, it had been about twenty years since she’d interacted with anybody who wouldn’t sell their children for the right price. She had no idea how to appeal to a person who still had a soul.
“Hold on, give me a second,” Elizah said. Vell was perfectly happy to let her not talk for a while. The temporary delay even provided a much-needed distraction in the form of Skye wandering into Vell’s dorm.
“Hey Vell, could you help me open a jar? I wouldn’t normally ask, but you see-”
Skye looked up and saw the three non-Vell occupants of Vell’s dorm. She waved hello.
“Oh. Hi. Didn’t know you had guests.”
The three “guests” stared right back at Skye, and specifically the arm she was using to wave at them.
“Skye,” Vell began. “Why do you have a crab claw?”
Skye was waving at them with a brown, chitinous appendage where a human forearm should’ve been. She looked down at her mutated arm, clicked the pincer once, and then shrugged.
“Because I turned it into one,” Skye said nonchalantly. “What, you think this kind of stable mutation happens on accident?”
“Well…”
“That was one time,” Skye said. “This was on purpose, and it is perfectly safe. It’s super inconvenient for opening jars, though, so come on, help a girl out. I really want a pickle.”
Vell took the jar and popped it open with a minimal amount of effort, and considered that a win for his masculinity. Skye happily pincered a pickle and chowed down on it with visible delight.
“So, I’m done interrupting,” Skye said. She waved a pickle juice covered crab claw at the three intruders. “I’ll let you get back to your whatever it was.”
“Why on earth did you give yourself a crab claw?” Elizah asked.
“I wanted to see if I could,” Skye said.
“You mutated yourself just to see if you could?”
“Well, obviously, who else was I supposed to mutate?”
Skye used the claw to grab another pickle and take a bite out of it. Elizah stared at her.
“Is that permanent?”
“No, it’ll molt off in a few hours,” Skye said.
“Molt? As in fall off?”
“It’s mostly painless,” Skye said. “I had to pop an ibuprofen or two for the first couple mutations, but nowadays I barely feel it.”
“You’ve- before-”
Elizah clutched at her chest and leaned against the nearest wall. She let out a strained groan of distress so severe that Vell actually started to worry she was having a heart attack. The groan ended, and Elizah shambled over to Alex and Helena with a dead-eyed glare.
“The two of you have dragged me to three different places,” Elizah said. “And in three different places, everyone I’ve seen has been dangerous, idiotic, and, worst of all, fiscally irresponsible!”
Vell felt like one of those things was not like the other, but Eliza seemed like she wasn’t in the mood for color commentary.
“This place doesn’t just need its budget cut, it needs to be wiped off the face of the earth,” Elizah snapped. “And god willing, all you psychopaths will go with it.”
Elizah stormed out and slammed the door shut so hard the guitar leaning against Vell’s wall rattled. He made sure the guitar was safe and then glared at his two new comrades.
“Good job, guys,” Vell said.
“She’s all talk,” Alex said. “She couldn’t actually get this school shut down. It’s too valuable.”
“She’s the person in charge of saying how valuable it is, you fucking idiot,” Helena said. “If she tells the Board this place is a money pit, they might believe her.”
“They won’t shut down the world’s most prestigious school overnight because of one whining woman,” Alex said.
“No, but they’ll sure as hell slash our budget to oblivion,” Vell said. “And that means experiments getting canceled, professors losing jobs, students getting expelled, you name it.”
The idea of students getting expelled did seem to sting Alex, if only because she was well aware she’d be one of the first on the chopping block.
“Just get out of my dorm,” Vell said. He pulled out his phone and started frantically texting Hawke. “Maybe if we block her phone we can pull off a hail mary before she leaves the island. Skye, can you tell Kim to start grabbing people? We need some good examples.”
“Try not to bring Freddy or his crew,” Helena said. “We-”
“I know,” Vell said. He turned his back on the duo and kept texting while Skye started sending messages as well. After a few seconds of being ignored, the two young loopers got the picture and walked out together.
“Excellent work, Helena,” Alex said.
“Shut it. This was Vell’s plan,” Helena said. “Luckily for us, I have something more...effective, in mind.”
Helena walked away with a smile on her face. Alex briefly considered going back into the dorm to warn Vell, but decided against it. Vell was the leader of the team, it was his job to keep his followers in line. If he failed to do so, that was his own fault.
***
Vell had a lot of literal followers this time, though he was keeping them in more of a mob than a line. Kim had assembled their smartest, and more importantly, safest students for one final show of force to Elizah Song. Hopefully some life saving medicines and therapeutic techniques would sway her opinion back in the right direction.
“Okay, you all just stay here and stand still,” Vell said. “Nobody make any sudden moves, she might, uh, still be a little tense.”
The surgeons at the front of the group nodded. Of all people, Vell trusted them to have steady nerves.
“I’m going to go talk to Elizah,” Vell said. “You guys stay here, at a safe distance.”
They were a few dozen yards away from the teleportation center, and Vell could see Eliza waiting for the transit portal to re-open. She seemed agitated just by the sight of the large crowd of students, and Vell didn’t want to alarm her any further. He approached alone and made sure to keep his hands in sight as Elizah put her back against a wall.
“Stay away from me,” she demanded. “I’m not putting up with one more second of this nonsense.”
“I know, I know, you kind of got off on the wrong foot with this campus,” Vell said. “And I won’t lie, there is the occasional bit of weird, dangerous stuff around here. But I promise you, for every odd experiment there’s a dozen more that help, and heal, and improve people’s lives.”
“I don’t care,” Elizah said. “This island is full of psychopaths, and it’s a miracle it hasn’t destroyed itself yet.”
“Well, that's, uh,” Vell stammered. “We have surprisingly good safety protocols.”
“The safest thing this school can do is stop existing,” Eliza said. “And I’m going to- oh hell.”
Vell looked over his shoulder to check on the crowd of followers, and saw that everyone he’d brought along was behaving. Unfortunately, someone he’d deliberately not brought along was there too. Helena was walking up to Elizah and Vell with a determined glare in her bright blue eyes.
“Helena, what are you doing?”
“Just talking,” Helena said. “Hello again, Elizah.”
“What is it this time?” Elizah snapped. “You have someone who can pull my heart out of my chest and show it to me?”
“We do, actually, but she’s not here right now,” Helena said. “I just wanted to come to you and be honest with you about this school. Because frankly, I agree with you.”
Vell and Elizah both looked at her with confusion. Helena let go of one of her crutches and leaned against the wall.
“This school is full of dangerous, unhinged lunatics,” Helena said. “You are one hundred percent right about that. You’re even mostly right that it might be better off getting shut down. Except for the part where you’re not thinking about what comes next.”
Elizah narrowed her eyes suspiciously and waited for Helena to continue.
“For starters, this school has had only one truly life-threatening incident in the past few decades, and that incident was caused by a principal abducting Vell, not by one of the students,” Helena said. “So clearly, despite their inherent danger, something about the structure of this facility is keeping those potential threats in check. In the event of a school shutdown, or even just a budget reduction, all of these unhinged lunatics are going to keep being unhinged lunatics, but you risk removing whatever structure is keeping them at least mostly contained.”
Elizah curiously scanned what little she could see of the island, and the crowd arrayed in front of her. Helena had a point about general safety. While there was occasional minor injury or property destruction, no one had ever gotten seriously hurt at the Einstein-Odinson. That she knew of, at least.
“Oh, and the second thing you’re failing to consider, and perhaps the more important part,” Helena said. “All these people, they’re going to be dangerous and unhinged no matter where they are, we’ve established that, yes?”
“Yes,” Elizah said, somewhat fearfully.
“So let’s say you shut down the school, or even just get a few of them expelled,” Helena continued. “The thing is, they’re not going to have anywhere to go. Or anything to do. But they are going to have someone to blame.”
Helena stood next to Elizah and waved her free hand in the direction of the crowd outside. They could see dozens of students, and Eliza could see dozens of potential threats.
“Imagine all those dangerous people, knowing that their future, their dreams, have been ripped away from them,” Helena said. “And imagine that all of them know it’s all your fault.”
For the second time today, Vell worried that Elizah’s heart had stopped. The auditor froze on the spot as her face went pale, and she broke into a cold sweat. Helena gave her a pat on the shoulder, retrieved her crutch, and started to walk away as the portal came to life behind Elizah.
“So, uh,” Vell began. “There’s also a guy pioneering new heart surgery techniques, if you-”
Elizah turned on her heel and walked directly through the portal without a word.
“Okay, bye,” Vell mumbled.
***
“Well, I must congratulate you,” Dean Lichman said. “I just got word that the school’s budget has actually been increased.”
“Well, uh, it was nothing, you know,” Vell said. “Helena and Alex did all the legwork.”
The two of them beamed with entirely unearned pride. Vell didn’t want to give them credit, considering how badly things had gone off the rails, but he also could not tell the Dean that Helena had essentially threatened the auditor into complying. The school was still funded, and that was what mattered, no matter how many implied death threats it took to get there.
“And your friends even managed to disarm that basement full of traps. Which is as relieving as it is frustrating,” Dean Lichman said. “Here I am trying to scrape together sufficient funds, and some past dean had enough budget lying around to order several thousand battle axes and bear traps.”
“And a few eels,” Hawke added.
“Well eels are surprisingly cheap,” Dean Lichman said, without elaborating how or why he knew that. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I should direct this funding to some school services. Thank you again, and enjoy the rest of your day.”
Dean Lichman trod off to attend to some much needed refinancing, leaving the loopers to their own devices yet again. Vell breathed a sigh of relief.
“Alright, last minute success is still a success,” Vell said. “Even if it was a little…”
“Unorthodox?”
“I was going to say unethical, actually,” Vell said. “Like, uh, flagrantly. I’m pretty sure what you did is actually illegal in some places, Helena.”
“But not in this place,” Helena said. “Benefits of international waters.”
“So you just know that, offhand,” Samson said. “Was that the first thing you looked up here? What all you can get away with?”
“It wasn’t the first thing, but obviously I studied the local laws,” Helena said. “When in Rome.”
Samson looked like he had another comment ready, but Vell cut him off by raising a hand.
“Why don’t the rest of you go finish disarming the booby traps and getting the components somewhere safe,” Vell said. “I’ll have a talk with Helena.”
The rest of the loopers shuffled off, leaving Vell and Helena alone. She didn’t even wait for him to start talking before rolling her eyes.
“Lord spare me from sanctimonious lectures,” Helena said.
“It’s not a lecture-”
“It’s always a lecture, Vell.”
“If it’s a lecture, it’s deserved,” Vell said. “You threatened a mostly innocent woman!”
“Oh, you have no idea what she’s guilty of,” Helena said. “In case you’ve forgotten, I’m terminally ill, in a way that is very expensive to treat. I was eight years old the first time someone told me my life was worth less than a stack of paper, and every few months since then, I have had to persuade, manipulate, guilt-trip, and yes, occasionally threaten, some greedy corporate whore, just like Elizah, who wants a new boat more than they want me to be alive.”
“Uh…”
“And besides, you got what you wanted, right?” Helena continued. “Me and Alex scared off the bitch. Mission accomplished.”
“That, uh, was not the plan,” Vell stammered.
“Vell, I’m not an idiot, you didn’t put me on the frontlines for my winning personality,” Helena said. “Even if I was dumb enough to believe that, nobody’s fucking stupid enough to think Alex would be part of the charm squad.”
“That wasn’t the, uh, the whole picture, you-”
“Jesus christ, how did Joan not figure out you were the guy with the rune sooner,” Helena said, looking more disgusted with every word. “You can’t lie to save your ass.”
“I lie to save lots of asses literally every day!”
“So why aren’t you any good at it?” Helena scoffed. “Look, Vell, I don’t make a habit of threatening people. You spare me the lecture, I won’t tell Alex you used her as outrage bait. Can you imagine how insufferable it’d be if she knew?”
“Aren’t you threatening me right now?”
“No, this is a deal, not a threat,” Helena said.
“But your side of the deal is that you won’t do something threatening to me,” Vell said.
“God, be pedantic about it if you want, is it a deal or not?”
“Fine. It’s a deal.”
“Excellent. Hope we’ve all learned a valuable lesson today,” Helena said, as she stood to leave.
“And that lesson is?”
Helena pivoted on her crutches to glare in Vell’s direction.
“That I’m smarter than my sister, Vell,” Helena said. “You can’t fool me.”
She walked out and slammed the door behind her. Vell rolled his eyes, packed up his things, and headed for the basement where the remnants of the traps were located. As he had predicted, Alex had not stuck around to help, leaving him some room to talk freely.
“Bad news, everyone,” Vell said, voice dripping with sarcasm. “Helena figured out our plan.”
“Oh no,” Kim said mockingly. “Saw right through our plan to use her and Alex as bait, right?”
“Yep,” Vell said.
“And what about our actual plan?” Samson said. “Any sign she’s onto that?”
“Fucking clueless,” Vell said. He and his friends shared a quick, conspiratorial chuckle.
Helena was right. She actually was smarter than Joan -smart enough to know a scheme when she saw one. But she was also more arrogant than even Joan had ever been. Too arrogant to think there might be a second scheme running right underneath the first one she spotted.
2024.04.30 22:47 altjxxx Earbuds vs ear muffs at indoor range (comfort/effectiveness)?
I've been using Walker ear muffs for a while, but I'm open to exploring alternatives to enhance my shooting experience. My primary goals are threefold, though I'm not entirely sure if they're all achievable:
I've been hesitant to try ear buds, mainly due to past experiences with Apple AirPods constantly falling out—especially concerning in a dynamic environment like an indoor gun range.
Lately, I've been intrigued by the AXIL earbuds, largely because of the ads I keep encountering. However, I'm apprehensive about whether they'll effectively reduce gunshot noise and whether they'll stay securely in my ears.
I'd greatly appreciate any insights or feedback from those who have tried different ear protection options in similar settings. Thanks in advance!
submitted by altjxxx to guns [link] [comments]
- Noise Reduction: I'm keen to diminish the loudness of gunshots, especially when I'm at an indoor range.
- Communication: It's important to me to still be able to hear and converse with others while shooting.
- Comfort: Of course, comfort plays a significant role in my choice of gear.
I've been hesitant to try ear buds, mainly due to past experiences with Apple AirPods constantly falling out—especially concerning in a dynamic environment like an indoor gun range.
Lately, I've been intrigued by the AXIL earbuds, largely because of the ads I keep encountering. However, I'm apprehensive about whether they'll effectively reduce gunshot noise and whether they'll stay securely in my ears.
I'd greatly appreciate any insights or feedback from those who have tried different ear protection options in similar settings. Thanks in advance!
2024.04.29 21:15 jdhoskins 58M, THR, Anterior, 2 Weeks out, thanks and paying it forward.
Everyone always seems to appreciate hearing about other peoples experiences, so I’m going to contribute.
M58, Right THR, Anterior, April 15, 2024.
(This was written on April 29, so 14 days after surgery)
Diagnosed with ‘bone on bone’ last summer, but pretended I could tough it out until I couldn’t. Called the surgeon in November, 2023, and was able to get the replacement scheduled for April 15, 2024 (could have been as early as mid-March, but I delayed because I wanted to travel 8 hours away to see the Total Solar Eclipse April 8). Got preparatory exercises to do, and did them faithfully from November to April.
Day of surgery went well check-in at 7:30 am with surgery at 9:30 am, and seemed pretty standard. I had a spinal to numb me from waist down, and the last thing I remember was them putting these boots on my feet.
The surgeon called my wife when it was done and told her it went great, definitely had the arthritis in that hip and should be a big improvement.
I don’t remember anything from the recovery room, but I do remember trying to transfer from the gurney to the bed in my overnight room and my legs were still pretty useless and heavy.
Once the spinal wore off I realized I had a huge patch of numbness on my thigh. Based on my research this can stick around for several months, so I’m waiting to see if I should be concerned.
Rest of the day was spent resting up, getting vitals taken, and dozing. I was able to get up and use the bathroom (pee).
Overnight was pretty much the same. I knew sleep would be terrible so I was prepared for it, vitals every few hours. I also kept having the hiccups which kept me awake. At one point they gave me some oxygen because my O2 was dropping when I slept, nothing serious. They also kept checking my blood sugar, something about how the sugar level helps with the healing. Finally around 4am I asked if we could try taking a walk around the floor. Did a lap of the floor with a walker, and was feeling pretty good about things.
At that point I’m taking a regular schedule of Oxy and Tylenol to ‘stay ahead’ of the pain.
The next morning PT and OT came in to check on my mobility and practice going up/down stairs, gave me some new exercise to do in bed. Everything checked out and was discharged by 2pm.
My wonderful wife prepared a separate space for me to recover at home, with a bathroom on the same level, and my own bed as we completely expected sleep to be terrible (and it continues to be uncomfortable).
OT implied I could sleep in any position, but discouraged stomach sleeping (my preferred position), so I mostly slept on my side with a foam wedge between my legs to keep me from moving too much.
Have a raised toilet seat which has been great. Have an ice machine to circulate cold water which has really helped my swelling. Compression stockings and a foam wedge have helped with the swelling as well. I feel like I spent a lot of time staying ahead of the swelling.
Nights are still poor sleep. The first couple days and nights I had the hiccups almost continuously. I ended up taking omeprazole (OTC) and that seemed to take care of it.
Stayed on the Oxy for about 4 days before tapering it off. Also taking Celebrex and Tylenol on a regular basis, so that seems to be managing pain. Worked to get up and walk with the walker every couple hours for just a few minutes.
What does the pain feel like? I describe it as this ‘biting’ sensation in different spots anywhere from my knee up to my hip. I also describe it as someone pulling off a really strong bandage very slowly. The pain usually comes on as I get up and walk, As I walk, it tends to subside. So far the other sensations I would classify as uncomfortable, tight, swollen feeling, which is primarily what keeps me from sleeping well, that and my just trying to be careful with the positioning. With the anterior I was given very few restrictions, but still wanted to be careful.
Had first PT Monday April 22 and he wanted to me to keep doing what I was doing so far, but could transition from the walker to the cane indoors, and just use the walker when outside.
TBH, the walker was more trouble than helpful outside, it caught every crack in the sidewalk, and I felt like I was working harder to keep it from flipping, so I’ve been using the cane outside as well, and it is working for me. One interesting point my PT made was to watch out for overdoing it, and he suggested that instead of trying to extend the duration of the walks, I do many short walks so I can stop if things start to hurt. I've been managing 4 to 6 10 minute walks over the last few days.
As of day 14, I am done with my compression stockings and took the dressing off.
TBH, taking off the dressing was good and bad. It now means I can take a shower basically on my own, but to see the actual scar, still with some dried blood and stitches sticking out made the surgery very real and messed with my head a bit.
That is where I am as of day 14.
One thing I have learned from reddit and other sources is that everyone heals differently, so your mileage may vary.
The other thing I have learned is that each surgeon has different treatment plans. For instance I lose the support stockings after two weeks, but other people on this site have to wear them for 6-8 weeks. It almost seems like each surgeon has their own superstitions, and aren’t consistent, so I recommend just sticking with your surgeon's suggestions.
If you have a willing partner, make sure to use them to take notes and help keep track of questions. Getting a consistent answer and guidance was very important to me, and having someone to help keep track of those things was great.
Be prepared both physically and mentally. If they give you exercises to do pre-surgery, do them. Know it will hurt, you will need assistance, swallow your pride, and be ready for some temporary incapacitation. You won’t sleep well for weeks, you may not go #2 until the Oxy is done, but it will all be worth it.
Hope this helps some people starting the journey. I know I’m still on my journey, so fingers crossed my trajectory maintains this positive direction. .
submitted by jdhoskins to TotalHipReplacement [link] [comments]
M58, Right THR, Anterior, April 15, 2024.
(This was written on April 29, so 14 days after surgery)
Diagnosed with ‘bone on bone’ last summer, but pretended I could tough it out until I couldn’t. Called the surgeon in November, 2023, and was able to get the replacement scheduled for April 15, 2024 (could have been as early as mid-March, but I delayed because I wanted to travel 8 hours away to see the Total Solar Eclipse April 8). Got preparatory exercises to do, and did them faithfully from November to April.
Day of surgery went well check-in at 7:30 am with surgery at 9:30 am, and seemed pretty standard. I had a spinal to numb me from waist down, and the last thing I remember was them putting these boots on my feet.
The surgeon called my wife when it was done and told her it went great, definitely had the arthritis in that hip and should be a big improvement.
I don’t remember anything from the recovery room, but I do remember trying to transfer from the gurney to the bed in my overnight room and my legs were still pretty useless and heavy.
Once the spinal wore off I realized I had a huge patch of numbness on my thigh. Based on my research this can stick around for several months, so I’m waiting to see if I should be concerned.
Rest of the day was spent resting up, getting vitals taken, and dozing. I was able to get up and use the bathroom (pee).
Overnight was pretty much the same. I knew sleep would be terrible so I was prepared for it, vitals every few hours. I also kept having the hiccups which kept me awake. At one point they gave me some oxygen because my O2 was dropping when I slept, nothing serious. They also kept checking my blood sugar, something about how the sugar level helps with the healing. Finally around 4am I asked if we could try taking a walk around the floor. Did a lap of the floor with a walker, and was feeling pretty good about things.
At that point I’m taking a regular schedule of Oxy and Tylenol to ‘stay ahead’ of the pain.
The next morning PT and OT came in to check on my mobility and practice going up/down stairs, gave me some new exercise to do in bed. Everything checked out and was discharged by 2pm.
My wonderful wife prepared a separate space for me to recover at home, with a bathroom on the same level, and my own bed as we completely expected sleep to be terrible (and it continues to be uncomfortable).
OT implied I could sleep in any position, but discouraged stomach sleeping (my preferred position), so I mostly slept on my side with a foam wedge between my legs to keep me from moving too much.
Have a raised toilet seat which has been great. Have an ice machine to circulate cold water which has really helped my swelling. Compression stockings and a foam wedge have helped with the swelling as well. I feel like I spent a lot of time staying ahead of the swelling.
Nights are still poor sleep. The first couple days and nights I had the hiccups almost continuously. I ended up taking omeprazole (OTC) and that seemed to take care of it.
Stayed on the Oxy for about 4 days before tapering it off. Also taking Celebrex and Tylenol on a regular basis, so that seems to be managing pain. Worked to get up and walk with the walker every couple hours for just a few minutes.
What does the pain feel like? I describe it as this ‘biting’ sensation in different spots anywhere from my knee up to my hip. I also describe it as someone pulling off a really strong bandage very slowly. The pain usually comes on as I get up and walk, As I walk, it tends to subside. So far the other sensations I would classify as uncomfortable, tight, swollen feeling, which is primarily what keeps me from sleeping well, that and my just trying to be careful with the positioning. With the anterior I was given very few restrictions, but still wanted to be careful.
Had first PT Monday April 22 and he wanted to me to keep doing what I was doing so far, but could transition from the walker to the cane indoors, and just use the walker when outside.
TBH, the walker was more trouble than helpful outside, it caught every crack in the sidewalk, and I felt like I was working harder to keep it from flipping, so I’ve been using the cane outside as well, and it is working for me. One interesting point my PT made was to watch out for overdoing it, and he suggested that instead of trying to extend the duration of the walks, I do many short walks so I can stop if things start to hurt. I've been managing 4 to 6 10 minute walks over the last few days.
As of day 14, I am done with my compression stockings and took the dressing off.
TBH, taking off the dressing was good and bad. It now means I can take a shower basically on my own, but to see the actual scar, still with some dried blood and stitches sticking out made the surgery very real and messed with my head a bit.
That is where I am as of day 14.
One thing I have learned from reddit and other sources is that everyone heals differently, so your mileage may vary.
The other thing I have learned is that each surgeon has different treatment plans. For instance I lose the support stockings after two weeks, but other people on this site have to wear them for 6-8 weeks. It almost seems like each surgeon has their own superstitions, and aren’t consistent, so I recommend just sticking with your surgeon's suggestions.
If you have a willing partner, make sure to use them to take notes and help keep track of questions. Getting a consistent answer and guidance was very important to me, and having someone to help keep track of those things was great.
Be prepared both physically and mentally. If they give you exercises to do pre-surgery, do them. Know it will hurt, you will need assistance, swallow your pride, and be ready for some temporary incapacitation. You won’t sleep well for weeks, you may not go #2 until the Oxy is done, but it will all be worth it.
Hope this helps some people starting the journey. I know I’m still on my journey, so fingers crossed my trajectory maintains this positive direction. .
2024.04.28 11:24 re3291 Helping 11 month old with gross motor.
My 11 month old scored 10/60 on her gross motor section of her 1 year review. She has found a way to crawl around but cannot get herself up into a seated position and doesn't try and stand unless we sit on the floor with her and support her the whole way through.
Our living room has lots of toys and a large foam mat on the floor. So I think she has enough stimulus. She really loves to be in one of those baby walkers (that are advised against) so I really limit her time in it. She can army crawl very well. But she spends a lot of time on her tummy or back.
I know all babies go at their own pace but I can't help but feel a bit guilty. I have 2 under 2 - only 14 months apart. So it's been a lot of keeping the littlest one safe from the bigger one, who was only just a confident walker when his baby sister came home. Is there anything anyone can suggest to encourage her to start developing these skills?
The health visitor told me that they'll ring me in 3 months to check in on her progress and if she hasn't started making improvements, they'll start to be concerned.
submitted by re3291 to breakingmom [link] [comments]
Our living room has lots of toys and a large foam mat on the floor. So I think she has enough stimulus. She really loves to be in one of those baby walkers (that are advised against) so I really limit her time in it. She can army crawl very well. But she spends a lot of time on her tummy or back.
I know all babies go at their own pace but I can't help but feel a bit guilty. I have 2 under 2 - only 14 months apart. So it's been a lot of keeping the littlest one safe from the bigger one, who was only just a confident walker when his baby sister came home. Is there anything anyone can suggest to encourage her to start developing these skills?
The health visitor told me that they'll ring me in 3 months to check in on her progress and if she hasn't started making improvements, they'll start to be concerned.
2024.04.27 10:46 Ok_Bullfrog_8491 Legolas and Gimli after the War of the Ring
What do Legolas and Gimli do after the War of the Ring?
After a somewhat frosty start, Legolas and Gimli grow close in Lothlórien, and remain inseparable throughout the rest of the book. In this post I want to explore what they did, together and separately, after the events of the War of the Ring.
In The Two Towers, Legolas and Gimli promise each other that they will visit the Glittering Caves (Aglarond) as well as Fangorn together, with Legolas wanting to share the beauty of Fangorn with Gimli, and Gimli wanting to share the beauty of the caves with Legolas:
Gimli
In the years and decades after this, Gimli seems to have been a busyman dwarf:
He visits the Shire, as he had long planned to do:
After visiting the Glittering Caves and Fangorn with Gimli, Legolas founds a community of Elves in Ithilien.
This he had wished to do since before Aragorn’s coronation:
But this new status quo—Gimli as Lord of the Glittering Caves, and Legolas with his people in Ithilien—was never going last, of course. Gimli is mortal, and Legolas’s Sea-longing has been awakened, as Galadriel had predicted:
submitted by Ok_Bullfrog_8491 to tolkienfans [link] [comments]
After a somewhat frosty start, Legolas and Gimli grow close in Lothlórien, and remain inseparable throughout the rest of the book. In this post I want to explore what they did, together and separately, after the events of the War of the Ring.
In The Two Towers, Legolas and Gimli promise each other that they will visit the Glittering Caves (Aglarond) as well as Fangorn together, with Legolas wanting to share the beauty of Fangorn with Gimli, and Gimli wanting to share the beauty of the caves with Legolas:
- ‘You move me, Gimli,’ said Legolas. ‘I have never heard you speak like this before.’ ‘Almost you make me regret that I have not seen these caves. Come! Let us make this bargain – if we both return safe out of the perils that await us, we will journey for a while together. You shall visit Fangorn with me, and then I will come with you to see Helm’s Deep.’ ‘That would not be the way of return that I should choose,’ said Gimli. ‘But I will endure Fangorn, if I have your promise to come back to the caves and share their wonder with me.’ ‘You have my promise,’ said Legolas. ‘But alas! Now we must leave behind both cave and wood for a while. See! We are coming to the end of the trees. How far is it to Isengard, Gandalf?’ (LOTR, The Road to Isengard)
- The Old Ent looked at them long and searchingly, and spoke to them in turn. Last he turned to Legolas. ‘So you have come all the way from Mirkwood, my good Elf? A very great forest it used to be!’ ‘And still is,’ said Legolas. ‘But not so great that we who dwell there ever tire of seeing new trees. I should dearly love to journey in Fangorn’s Wood. I scarcely passed beyond the eaves of it, and I did not wish to turn back.’ Treebeard’s eyes gleamed with pleasure. ‘I hope you may have your wish, ere the hills be much older,’ he said. ‘I will come, if I have the fortune,’ said Legolas. ‘I have made a bargain with my friend that, if all goes well, we will visit Fangorn together – by your leave.’ ‘Any Elf that comes with you will be welcome,’ said Treebeard. ‘The friend I speak of is not an Elf,’ said Legolas; ‘I mean Gimli, Glóin’s son here.’ Gimli bowed low, and the axe slipped from his belt and clattered on the ground. ‘Hoom, hm! Ah now,’ said Treebeard, looking dark-eyed at him. ‘A dwarf and an axe-bearer! Hoom! I have good will to Elves; but you ask much. This is a strange friendship!’ ‘Strange it may seem,’ said Legolas; ‘but while Gimli lives I shall not come to Fangorn alone. His axe is not for trees, but for orc-necks, O Fangorn, Master of Fangorn’s Wood. Forty-two he hewed in the battle.’ ‘Hoo! Come now!’ said Treebeard. ‘That is a better story! Well, well, things will go as they will; and there is no need to hurry to meet them. But now we must part for a while. Day is drawing to an end, yet Gandalf says you must go ere nightfall, and the Lord of the Mark is eager for his own house.’ (LOTR, The Voice of Saruman)
- Now the guests were ready, and they drank the stirrup-cup, and with great praise and friendship they departed, and came at length to Helm’s Deep, and there they rested two days. Then Legolas repaid his promise to Gimli and went with him to the Glittering Caves; and when they returned he was silent, and would say only that Gimli alone could find fit words to speak of them. ‘And never before has a Dwarf claimed a victory over an Elf in a contest of words,’ said he. ‘Now therefore let us go to Fangorn and set the score right!’ (LOTR, Many Partings)
- But Treebeard shook his head and said: ‘It is far to go. And there are too many Men there in these days. But I am forgetting my manners! Will you stay here and rest a while? And maybe there are some that would be pleased to pass through Fangorn Forest and so shorten their road home?’ He looked at Celeborn and Galadriel. But all save Legolas said that they must now take their leave and depart either south or west. ‘Come, Gimli!’ said Legolas. ‘Now by Fangorn’s leave I will visit the deep places of the Entwood and see such trees as are nowhere else to be found in Middle-earth. You shall come with me and keep your word; and thus we will journey on together to our own lands in Mirkwood and beyond.’ To this Gimli agreed, though with no great delight, it seemed. ‘Here then at last comes the ending of the Fellowship of the Ring,’ said Aragorn. ‘Yet I hope that ere long you will return to my land with the help that you promised.’ ‘We will come, if our own lords allow it,’ said Gimli. ‘Well, farewell, my hobbits! You should come safe to your own homes now, and I shall not be kept awake for fear of your peril. We will send word when we may, and some of us may yet meet at times; but I fear that we shall not all be gathered together ever again.’ (LOTR, Many Partings)
Gimli
In the years and decades after this, Gimli seems to have been a busy
He visits the Shire, as he had long planned to do:
- After the crowning we stayed in a fair house in Minas Tirith with Gandalf, and he was very merry, and though we asked him questions about all that came into our minds his patience seemed as endless as his knowledge. I cannot now recall most of the things that he told us; often we did not understand them. But I remember this conversation very clearly. Gimli was there with us, and he said to Peregrin: ‘There is a thing I must do one of these days: I must visit that Shire of yours. Not to see more Hobbits! I doubt if I could learn anything about them that I do not know already. But no Dwarf of the House of Durin could fail to look with wonder on that land. Did not the recovery of the Kingship under the Mountain, and the fall of Smaug, begin there? […]’ (UT, The Quest of Erebor, p. 425–426, fn omitted)
- Gimli must at least have passed through the Shire on journeys from his original home in the Blue Mountains (see p. 435). (UT, The Quest of Erebor, p. 425)
- After the fall of Sauron, Gimli brought south a part of the Dwarf-folk of Erebor, and he became Lord of the Glittering Caves. He and his people did great works in Gondor and Rohan. For Minas Tirith they forged gates of mithril and steel to replace those broken by the Witch-king. (LOTR, Appendix A, III Durin’s Folk)
- But King Elessar, when he was crowned in Gondor, began the re-ordering of his realm, and one of his first tasks was the restoration of Orthanc, where he proposed to set up again the palantir recovered from Saruman. Then all the secrets of the tower were searched. Many things of worth were found, jewels and heirlooms of Eorl, filched from Edoras by the agency of Wormtongue during King Théoden’s decline, and other such things, more ancient and beautiful, from mounds and tombs far and wide. Saruman in his degradation had become not a dragon but a jackdaw. At last behind a hidden door that they could not have found or opened had not Elessar had the aid of Gimli the Dwarf a steel closet was revealed. Maybe it had been intended to receive the Ring; but it was almost bare. In a casket on a high shelf two things were laid. One was a small case of gold, attached to a fine chain; it was empty, and bore no letter or token, but beyond all doubt it had once borne the Ring about Isildur’s neck. Next to it lay a treasure without price, long mourned as lost for ever: the Elendilmir itself, the white star of Elvish crystal upon a fillet of mithril that had descended from Silmarien to Elendil, and had been taken by him as the token of royalty in the North Kingdom. Every king and the chieftains that followed them in Arnor had borne the Elendilmir down even to Elessar himself; but though it was a jewel of great beauty, made by Elven-smiths in Imladris for Valandil Isildur’s son, it had not the ancientry nor potency of the one that had been lost when Isildur fled into the dark and came back no more. (UT, The Disaster of the Gladden Fields, p. 358–359, fn omitted)
- Concerning the sources for most of the matter contained in the following Appendices, especially A to D, see the note at the end of the Prologue. The section A III, Durin’s Folk, was probably derived from Gimli the Dwarf, who maintained his friendship with Peregrin and Meriadoc and met them again many times in Gondor and Rohan. (LOTR, Appendix A, Annals of the Kings and Rulers)
After visiting the Glittering Caves and Fangorn with Gimli, Legolas founds a community of Elves in Ithilien.
This he had wished to do since before Aragorn’s coronation:
- ‘And I,’ said Legolas, ‘shall walk in the woods of this fair land, which is rest enough. In days to come, if my Elven-lord allows, some of our folk shall remove hither; and when we come it shall be blessed, for a while. For a while: a month, a life, a hundred years of Men. But Anduin is near, and Anduin leads down to the Sea. To the Sea! To the Sea, to the Sea! The white gulls are crying, The wind is blowing, and the white foam is flying. West, west away, the round sun is falling. Grey ship, grey ship, do you hear them calling, The voices of my people that have gone before me? I will leave, I will leave the woods that bore me; For our days are ending and our years failing. I will pass the wide waters lonely sailing. Long are the waves on the Last Shore falling, Sweet are the voices in the Lost Isle calling, In Eressëa, in Elvenhome that no man can discover, Where the leaves fall not: land of my people for ever!’ (LOTR, The Field of Cormallen)
- After the fall of Sauron, Gimli brought south a part of the Dwarf-folk of Erebor, and he became Lord of the Glittering Caves. He and his people did great works in Gondor and Rohan. For Minas Tirith they forged gates of mithril and steel to replace those broken by the Witch-king. Legolas his friend also brought south Elves out of Greenwood, and they dwelt in Ithilien, and it became once again the fairest country in all the west-lands.(LOTR, Appendix A)
- Gimli Glóin’s son is renowned, for he was one of the Nine Walkers that set out with the Ring; and he remained in the company of King Elessar throughout the War. He was named Elf-friend because of the great love that grew between him and Legolas, son of King Thranduil, and because of his reverence for the Lady Galadriel. (LOTR, Appendix A, III Durin’s Folk)
But this new status quo—Gimli as Lord of the Glittering Caves, and Legolas with his people in Ithilien—was never going last, of course. Gimli is mortal, and Legolas’s Sea-longing has been awakened, as Galadriel had predicted:
- Legolas Greenleaf long under tree In joy thou hast lived. Beware of the Sea! If thou hearest the cry of the gull on the shore, Thy heart shall then rest in the forest no more. (LOTR, The White Rider)
- But when King Elessar gave up his life Legolas followed at last the desire of his heart and sailed over Sea. (LOTR, Appendix A, III Durin’s Folk)
- We have heard tell that Legolas took Gimli Glóin’s son with him because of their great friendship, greater than any that has been between Elf and Dwarf. If this is true, then it is strange indeed: that a Dwarf should be willing to leave Middle-earth for any love, or that the Eldar should receive him, or that the Lords of the West should permit it. But it is said that Gimli went also out of desire to see again the beauty of Galadriel; and it may be that she, being mighty among the Eldar, obtained this grace for him. More cannot be said of this matter. (LOTR, Appendix A, III Durin’s Folk)
- In this year [year 120 of the Fourth Age; 1541 S.R.] on March 1st came at last the Passing of King Elessar. It is said that the beds of Meriadoc and Peregrin were set beside the bed of the great king. Then Legolas built a grey ship in Ithilien, and sailed down Anduin and so over Sea; and with him, it is said, went Gimli the Dwarf. And when that ship passed an end was come in Middle-earth of the Fellowship of the Ring. (LOTR, Appendix B, Later Events Concerning the Members of the Fellowship of the Ring, fn omitted)
- …and so certain ‘mortals’, who have played some great part in Elvish affairs, may pass with the Elves to Elvenhome. Thus Frodo (by the express gift of Arwen) and Bilbo, and eventually Sam (as adumbrated by Frodo); and as a unique exception Gimli the Dwarf, as friend of Legolas and ‘servant’ of Galadriel. (Letters, Letter 154, p. 198)
- The Lord of the Rings, JRR Tolkien, HarperCollins 2005, ebook edition August 2022, version 2022-05-30 [cited as: LOTR].
- Unfinished Tales of Númenor & Middle-earth, JRR Tolkien, ed Christopher Tolkien, HarperCollins 2014 (softcover) [cited as: UT].
- The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien, JRR Tolkien, ed Humphrey Carpenter with the assistance of Christopher Tolkien, HarperCollins 2006 (softcover) [cited as: Letters].
2024.04.23 15:42 macsteckler The New Sound Transit 2 Line Opens this Weekend!! Seastside Newsletter 4/22
Happy Monday everyone! Hope everyone had a great weekend and is ready for the spring weather. We have a lot of news and events this week so get ready! A big piece of news affecting everyone in the state of Washington is banning the use of foam containers for any take-out or fast food. This law will go into effect on June 1st and will make it illegal for these containers to be used.
submitted by macsteckler to redmond [link] [comments]
News:
- Get involved in the City of Redmond's Community Road Safety Assessment on May 11th to share ideas and concerns with transportation safety engineers and planners, contributing to the development of a Safety Action Plan. The Safety Action Plan aims to address transportation safety issues, particularly for vulnerable users like pedestrians and bicyclists, through community input and collaboration. (info)
- Beginning May 3, 2024, parking changes at the Redmond Municipal Campus will accommodate the opening of the Redmond Senior & Community Center, with designated areas for visitors, city vehicles, and staff, while maintaining free parking with forthcoming time restrictions. (info)
Events:
2024.04.19 14:54 Zeverious [US-PA][H] Black Alu LZ Physix with extras, Artisans [W] Paypal
Timestamp : https://imgur.com/a/egcXXwH
All prices include shipping within the US
Not really into the hobby anymore, all prices are OBO so just make an offer really.
LZ Physix built with L/F Holy Koalas (Soldiered) on CF plate, comes with case, matching wrist rest, extra solder pcb, 2 extra foam sets and PC plate- 390
Artisans -
- Gothcaps cornelius section -
Gen 2 single shot corns - 60$ each ( Dark grey, light grey, pink, and minty green)
Gen 2 corn Diamond Nebula (2 .10 carat diamonds for eyes) - 340$
Gen 2 corn Santa Muerte (ruby) - 100
Gen 2 "Candy corn" - 75
Gen 2 corn Withering Manawraith - 100
Gen 2 corn Hemostasis - 75
Gen 2 corn Fear of Corn - 75
Gen 2 Tiffy Tiara - 75
Gen 2 Beige Rage - 75
Gen 1 Black drank communion - 200
Gen 1 Dark night - 250
Gen 1 Jealous Jason - 200
Gen 1 Wraith walker - 200
Gen 1 Venta Gold - 300
Gen 1 Molten Metal Murder - 225
All Gen 1 caps that have an authentication card come with it.
PJKs- 150 each
Sodie caps - 75 Each
Pewter Sirius - 125
Lividity caps - 60 each
KUG bag - 100
Keymakers - 40 each
Wildstory caps - 80 each
Mingming Bongo - 500
Salvadors - 80 each
LMK if i'm missing anything, like i said im kinda out of the hobby now a days, so these prices might be way off. If you see anything you like just shoot me an offer if you don't like the price, I tried looking at prices but most of these are guesses or retail.
submitted by Zeverious to mechmarket [link] [comments]
All prices include shipping within the US
Not really into the hobby anymore, all prices are OBO so just make an offer really.
LZ Physix built with L/F Holy Koalas (Soldiered) on CF plate, comes with case, matching wrist rest, extra solder pcb, 2 extra foam sets and PC plate- 390
Artisans -
- Gothcaps cornelius section -
Gen 2 single shot corns - 60$ each ( Dark grey, light grey, pink, and minty green)
Gen 2 corn Diamond Nebula (2 .10 carat diamonds for eyes) - 340$
Gen 2 corn Santa Muerte (ruby) - 100
Gen 2 "Candy corn" - 75
Gen 2 corn Withering Manawraith - 100
Gen 2 corn Hemostasis - 75
Gen 2 corn Fear of Corn - 75
Gen 2 Tiffy Tiara - 75
Gen 2 Beige Rage - 75
Gen 1 Black drank communion - 200
Gen 1 Dark night - 250
Gen 1 Jealous Jason - 200
Gen 1 Wraith walker - 200
Gen 1 Venta Gold - 300
Gen 1 Molten Metal Murder - 225
All Gen 1 caps that have an authentication card come with it.
PJKs- 150 each
Sodie caps - 75 Each
Pewter Sirius - 125
Lividity caps - 60 each
KUG bag - 100
Keymakers - 40 each
Wildstory caps - 80 each
Mingming Bongo - 500
Salvadors - 80 each
LMK if i'm missing anything, like i said im kinda out of the hobby now a days, so these prices might be way off. If you see anything you like just shoot me an offer if you don't like the price, I tried looking at prices but most of these are guesses or retail.
2024.04.19 06:14 watchhomage Best electronic ear protection for shooting recommendations 2024
1.Editor’s Overall Pick – AXIL TRACKR
Pros:
2. Best Foam Earplugs – Ear Buddy Foam Earplugs
Pros:
3. Most Protective Passive – 3M Peltor Optime 105
Pros:
4. Runner-Up Electronic Earmuff – Howard Leight Impact Sport
Pros:
5. Also Good Electronic Earmuffs – Walker’s Razor Slim Muff
Pros:
Comfort and Ergonomics: I paid close attention to how each electronic earmuff or earplug felt during extended periods of wear, assessing the padding, seal, and overall comfort. Devices that provided a snug yet comfortable fit without causing discomfort or pressure points were prioritized.
Noise Reduction and Performance: I tested the noise reduction capabilities of each device across various shooting environments, including indoor ranges, outdoor ranges, and hunting scenarios. The effectiveness of noise cancellation and the clarity of ambient sound amplification were critical factors in determining performance.
Durability and Build Quality: I examined the materials used, construction quality, and durability of each electronic ear protection device. Models that demonstrated resilience to impact, moisture resistance, and long-term durability under regular use were favored.
Battery Life and Additional Features: I evaluated the battery life and additional features offered by each device, such as Bluetooth connectivity, volume control, and compatibility with shooting accessories. Devices that offered extended battery life and convenient features for shooters were given extra consideration.
submitted by watchhomage to betabattle [link] [comments]
Pros:
- NRR protection level of 25dB
- Thin profile allows for good cheekwelds
- Great job of blocking out shots and amplifying speech
- A bit tight in the beginning but stretches out
- Protection Level: 27dB SNR
- Weight: 12 oz
- Batteries: 2 AAA
2. Best Foam Earplugs – Ear Buddy Foam Earplugs
Pros:
- High NRR (noise reduction rating) of 32dB
- Small, lightweight, and disposable
- Affordable
- Requires compression and insertion into ear
- Blocks out noise indiscriminately
- Protection Level: 32dB NRR
- 50 Pairs
3. Most Protective Passive – 3M Peltor Optime 105
Pros:
- High protection with 30dB NRR
- Convenient to put on and take off repeatedly
- One size usually fits all
- Can pair with earplugs inside
- Inexpensive & reusable
- Bulkier than other options
- Can interfere with proper rifle cheek weld
- Issues with safety or prescription glasses and proper ear seal
- Protection Level: 30dB NRR
- Weight: 12 oz
4. Runner-Up Electronic Earmuff – Howard Leight Impact Sport
Pros:
- Great reviews and well-known
- Slim profile
- AUX in
- Lower 22dB NRR protection
- Could be more comfortable
- Protection Level: 22dB NRR
- Weight: 12 oz
- Batteries: 2 AAA
5. Also Good Electronic Earmuffs – Walker’s Razor Slim Muff
Pros:
- 23dB NRR of protection
- Can be upgraded with gel pads
- Slim profile
- No AUX in
- Protection Level: 23db NRR
- Weight: 12 oz
- Batteries: 2 AAA
Methodology: Curating the Best Electronic Ear Protection for Shooting Based on Personal Experience and Research
Selecting the right electronic ear protection for shooting is crucial for maintaining safety and comfort during firearms activities. To curate the best options, I adopted a comprehensive approach, combining insights from the shooting community with hands-on testing. Here's a breakdown of my methodology:Community Insights: Forums and Shooting Enthusiast Communities Deep Dive
To understand the preferences and experiences of fellow shooters, I immersed myself in various online communities dedicated to firearms and shooting sports. Forums like guns, shooting, and firearm enthusiast websites provided valuable firsthand experiences and reviews. By analyzing discussions and testimonials, I identified electronic ear protection devices that were consistently praised for their performance, comfort, and durability. Attributes like noise reduction rating (NRR), comfort during prolonged use, and effectiveness in different shooting environments were key factors considered.Personal Testing: A Shooter's Perspective
Armed with a list of highly recommended electronic ear protection devices, I embarked on personal testing sessions in real-world shooting scenarios. As an avid shooter who values safety and comfort on the range, I rigorously evaluated each device's performance and suitability for different shooting activities.Comfort and Ergonomics: I paid close attention to how each electronic earmuff or earplug felt during extended periods of wear, assessing the padding, seal, and overall comfort. Devices that provided a snug yet comfortable fit without causing discomfort or pressure points were prioritized.
Noise Reduction and Performance: I tested the noise reduction capabilities of each device across various shooting environments, including indoor ranges, outdoor ranges, and hunting scenarios. The effectiveness of noise cancellation and the clarity of ambient sound amplification were critical factors in determining performance.
Durability and Build Quality: I examined the materials used, construction quality, and durability of each electronic ear protection device. Models that demonstrated resilience to impact, moisture resistance, and long-term durability under regular use were favored.
Battery Life and Additional Features: I evaluated the battery life and additional features offered by each device, such as Bluetooth connectivity, volume control, and compatibility with shooting accessories. Devices that offered extended battery life and convenient features for shooters were given extra consideration.
Identifying Your Shooting Needs
Before selecting electronic ear protection for shooting, it's essential to consider your specific shooting activities and preferences:- Noise Reduction Rating (NRR): Determine the level of noise reduction required based on the caliber of firearms you use and the shooting environment.
- Comfort: Choose ear protection that offers a comfortable fit for extended wear, especially if you spend long hours on the shooting range or engage in competitive shooting.
- Additional Features: Consider features like Bluetooth connectivity, audio input, and compatibility with shooting glasses or headsets based on your preferences and shooting setup.
- Budget: Decide on a budget range that aligns with your needs and priorities, balancing cost with the desired features and performance.
2024.04.19 02:17 watchhomage Best shoes for Morton's Neuroma Recommendations
Best Overall Shoe: NAOT Footwear Galaxy Shoe
Key Features:
Soft footbed made of cork and latex
Pros:
The NAOT Footwear Galaxy Shoe has been a game-changer for me. Its soft footbed made of cork and latex provides optimal comfort, effectively alleviating pressure points on my toes and the ball of my feet. Additionally, being recommended by podiatrists adds to its credibility. However, I did find that it tends to run big, so I recommend trying a size down for the perfect fit.
Best for Walking: Brooks Addiction Walker Walking Shoes
Key Features:
Maximum support and soft cushioning
Pros:
The Brooks Addiction Walker Walking Shoes are my go-to for walks. They offer maximum support and soft cushioning, effectively reducing irritation of my neuromas. While they take some time to break in, the removable insoles provide added versatility. Overall, these shoes have significantly improved my walking experience.
Best for Running: ASICS Gel-Cumulus Running Shoes
Key Features:
Extra cushioning from heel to toe
Wide toe box
Pros:
When it comes to running, the ASICS Gel-Cumulus Running Shoes have been a game-changer for me. Their extra cushioning from heel to toe and wide toe box provide exceptional comfort and support, reducing irritation of my neuromas. Despite running a bit small, their durability and shock-absorbing properties make them worth the investment.
Best Sandals: Orthofeet Lake Sandals
Key Features:
Supportive orthotic insoles
Wide width
Pros:
For everyday wear, I highly recommend the Orthofeet Lake Sandals. Their supportive orthotic insoles and wide width make them perfect for relieving pain from neuromas. Additionally, their waterproof feature and padded straps ensure comfort even during long hours of wear. Although they run a little big, I've found them to be a great choice for everyday comfort.
Hoka Bondi 8 Shoes
Key Features:
Plush cushioning
Low heel drop
Extra wide fit
Pros:
The Hoka Bondi 8 Shoes have been my go-to for plush cushioning and impact absorption. Their low heel drop and extra wide fit prevent compression of my toes, providing relief from neuroma pain. While their specific cons aren't specified, I've found them to be an excellent choice for everyday wear.
Medical Professional Recommendations: Consulting Podiatrists and Orthopedists Understanding the biomechanical aspects of Morton's neuroma and the therapeutic features required in shoes necessitated consulting with podiatrists, orthopedists, and other foot health experts. By gathering recommendations from medical professionals, I gained insights into essential shoe features such as supportive footbeds, cushioning, wide toe boxes, and shock absorption capabilities. Their expertise guided the selection process, ensuring that the chosen shoes offered optimal support and comfort for individuals with Morton's neuroma.
Comfort and Support: I closely evaluated how each shoe felt during extended wear, paying attention to factors such as cushioning, arch support, and overall comfort.
Fit and Toe Box Width: Assessing the fit of each shoe, particularly focusing on the width of the toe box, was crucial to ensure adequate space for the toes and forefoot, minimizing compression on the neuroma.
Impact Absorption: Testing the shoes' ability to absorb impact and reduce stress on the affected area was paramount, considering features like gel cushioning, foam midsoles, and shock-absorbing technologies.
Durability and Construction: I examined the durability and construction quality of each shoe, looking for signs of wear and tear after prolonged use to ensure long-term reliability.
Support and Cushioning: Prioritize shoes with adequate arch support and cushioning to alleviate pressure on the neuroma.
Toe Box Width: Opt for shoes with a wide toe box to provide ample space for the toes and minimize compression on the forefoot.
Material and Breathability: Choose shoes made of breathable materials to promote airflow and prevent discomfort from excessive sweating.
Style and Versatility: Select shoes that align with personal style preferences and can be worn comfortably across various settings and activities.
Budget: Determine a suitable budget and seek shoes that offer the best value in terms of features and affordability.
By combining insights from the community, medical professionals, and personal experiences, I've curated a selection of shoes that cater to individuals dealing with Morton's neuroma. Each shoe on this list offers unique features aimed at providing relief from discomfort and supporting an active lifestyle. Remember, the best shoes for Morton's neuroma are those that prioritize comfort, support, and functionality to help manage symptoms and enhance overall quality of life.
submitted by watchhomage to betabattle [link] [comments]
Key Features:
Soft footbed made of cork and latex
Pros:
- Recommended by podiatrists
- Alleviates pressure points on toes and ball of the feet
- Lightweight
- Runs big
The NAOT Footwear Galaxy Shoe has been a game-changer for me. Its soft footbed made of cork and latex provides optimal comfort, effectively alleviating pressure points on my toes and the ball of my feet. Additionally, being recommended by podiatrists adds to its credibility. However, I did find that it tends to run big, so I recommend trying a size down for the perfect fit.
Best for Walking: Brooks Addiction Walker Walking Shoes
Key Features:
Maximum support and soft cushioning
Pros:
- Supportive enough without orthotics
- Reduces irritation of neuromas
- Removable insoles
- Takes time to break in
The Brooks Addiction Walker Walking Shoes are my go-to for walks. They offer maximum support and soft cushioning, effectively reducing irritation of my neuromas. While they take some time to break in, the removable insoles provide added versatility. Overall, these shoes have significantly improved my walking experience.
Best for Running: ASICS Gel-Cumulus Running Shoes
Key Features:
Extra cushioning from heel to toe
Wide toe box
Pros:
- Ideal for most foot types
- Shock-absorbing
- Long-lasting
- Runs a bit small
When it comes to running, the ASICS Gel-Cumulus Running Shoes have been a game-changer for me. Their extra cushioning from heel to toe and wide toe box provide exceptional comfort and support, reducing irritation of my neuromas. Despite running a bit small, their durability and shock-absorbing properties make them worth the investment.
Best Sandals: Orthofeet Lake Sandals
Key Features:
Supportive orthotic insoles
Wide width
Pros:
- Designed for pain relief from neuromas
- Waterproof
- Padded straps for added comfort
- Runs a little big
For everyday wear, I highly recommend the Orthofeet Lake Sandals. Their supportive orthotic insoles and wide width make them perfect for relieving pain from neuromas. Additionally, their waterproof feature and padded straps ensure comfort even during long hours of wear. Although they run a little big, I've found them to be a great choice for everyday comfort.
Hoka Bondi 8 Shoes
Key Features:
Plush cushioning
Low heel drop
Extra wide fit
Pros:
- Ideal for impact absorption
- Prevents compression of the toes
The Hoka Bondi 8 Shoes have been my go-to for plush cushioning and impact absorption. Their low heel drop and extra wide fit prevent compression of my toes, providing relief from neuroma pain. While their specific cons aren't specified, I've found them to be an excellent choice for everyday wear.
Methodology: Curating the Best Shoes for Morton's Neuroma Based on Personal Experience and Research
Selecting the right shoes for Morton's neuroma requires a meticulous approach that combines insights from medical professionals, personal experiences, and thorough research. Here's how I curated the best options for individuals dealing with this foot condition:Community Insights: Exploring Footwear Forums and Health Communities
To gain a comprehensive understanding of the best shoes for Morton's neuroma, I delved into various online forums, footwear communities, and health discussion boards. Platforms like Reddit, specialized shoe forums, and medical websites provided valuable insights from individuals sharing their experiences and recommendations. By analyzing discussions, testimonials, and expert advice, I identified shoes that were consistently praised for their effectiveness in alleviating neuroma symptoms and providing comfort.Medical Professional Recommendations: Consulting Podiatrists and Orthopedists Understanding the biomechanical aspects of Morton's neuroma and the therapeutic features required in shoes necessitated consulting with podiatrists, orthopedists, and other foot health experts. By gathering recommendations from medical professionals, I gained insights into essential shoe features such as supportive footbeds, cushioning, wide toe boxes, and shock absorption capabilities. Their expertise guided the selection process, ensuring that the chosen shoes offered optimal support and comfort for individuals with Morton's neuroma.
Personal Testing: Evaluating Shoes from a Neuroma Sufferer's Perspective
Putting recommendations from both the community and medical professionals to the test, I embarked on personal testing to assess the performance of each shoe in real-world scenarios. As someone who experiences discomfort from Morton's neuroma, I subjected each pair of shoes to rigorous testing to evaluate their effectiveness in providing pain relief, comfort, and support.Comfort and Support: I closely evaluated how each shoe felt during extended wear, paying attention to factors such as cushioning, arch support, and overall comfort.
Fit and Toe Box Width: Assessing the fit of each shoe, particularly focusing on the width of the toe box, was crucial to ensure adequate space for the toes and forefoot, minimizing compression on the neuroma.
Impact Absorption: Testing the shoes' ability to absorb impact and reduce stress on the affected area was paramount, considering features like gel cushioning, foam midsoles, and shock-absorbing technologies.
Durability and Construction: I examined the durability and construction quality of each shoe, looking for signs of wear and tear after prolonged use to ensure long-term reliability.
Identifying Your Needs: Considerations When Choosing Shoes for Morton's Neuroma
Before selecting shoes for Morton's neuroma, it's essential to consider factors tailored to individual needs and preferences:Support and Cushioning: Prioritize shoes with adequate arch support and cushioning to alleviate pressure on the neuroma.
Toe Box Width: Opt for shoes with a wide toe box to provide ample space for the toes and minimize compression on the forefoot.
Material and Breathability: Choose shoes made of breathable materials to promote airflow and prevent discomfort from excessive sweating.
Style and Versatility: Select shoes that align with personal style preferences and can be worn comfortably across various settings and activities.
Budget: Determine a suitable budget and seek shoes that offer the best value in terms of features and affordability.
By combining insights from the community, medical professionals, and personal experiences, I've curated a selection of shoes that cater to individuals dealing with Morton's neuroma. Each shoe on this list offers unique features aimed at providing relief from discomfort and supporting an active lifestyle. Remember, the best shoes for Morton's neuroma are those that prioritize comfort, support, and functionality to help manage symptoms and enhance overall quality of life.
2024.04.15 07:04 Stage-Piercing727 Best Brooks Walking Shoes
 | submitted by Stage-Piercing727 to u/Stage-Piercing727 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/6ondhe17skuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=592e6f6f9634f55a7b2568cc012316dc7414fb20 Looking for the perfect pair of walking shoes? Look no further than our roundup of the best Brooks walking shoes! We've scoured the market to bring you the most comfortable, durable, and stylish options from this renowned brand. Whether you're an avid walker, hiker, or just looking for a pair of shoes that feel as good as they look, you'll be sure to find the perfect match in our comprehensive selection. Stay tuned as we delve into the world of Brooks walking shoes! The Top 19 Best Brooks Walking Shoes
Reviews🔗Versatile Brooks Revel 6 Running Shoes 9https://preview.redd.it/249i5q08skuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0019c355ba71342d289a525ef2bd3f94ae1ac486 I recently got the chance to try out the Women's Brooks Revel 6 Running Shoes 9 White/Black, and boy, have they made my daily life a lot more comfortable! As a mom who spends most of her time on her feet, I have been searching for a reliable pair of shoes that could keep up with my fast-paced lifestyle. The Revel 6 Running Shoes have not only met, but also surpassed my expectations. One of the first things I noticed about these shoes is how incredibly lightweight and breathable they are. The flat knit mesh upper helps to keep my feet fresh and airy, while the bio-moist DNA midsole provides a responsive and cushioned ride. In addition, the shoes are quite stylish and can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. The chic White/Black color scheme pairs well with various outfits, making these shoes a versatile addition to my wardrobe. While the shoes are comfortable and supportive, I did experience a bit of tightness in the arch area. This issue was easily resolved by wearing a thinner pair of socks, but it is worth mentioning for those with wider feet. Another downside is that these shoes tend to stain easily, especially if you wear them outside on a regular basis. However, with proper care and maintenance, this issue can be minimized. Overall, I would definitely recommend the Women's Brooks Revel 6 Running Shoes 9 White/Black to anyone seeking a comfortable, stylish, and versatile pair of shoes for their active lifestyle. 🔗Comfortable and durable leather walking shoehttps://preview.redd.it/ch48zkp8skuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=41321052f7c12ce11f838e05dc0536b3c8545a6a As a walking enthusiast, I've been eager to find a shoe that combines comfort, support and style. I must admit, the Brooks Addiction Walker 2 11.5 Men's Black wasn't exactly what I was looking for, but it did have some notable pros. Firstly, the full-grain leather upper delivers sturdiness and durability. I've been wearing them during my daily walks and they show no signs of wear yet. Another great feature is the Progressive Diagonal Rollbar support system. It has made a significant difference in keeping my body on its natural path of motion, particularly dealing with plantar fasciitis. However, there are also cons. The shoes are quite heavy and noisy, which can be frustrating, especially during long walks. The other issue is the traction. While it's designed to be slip-resistant, I didn't find it holding up well in damp or slippery conditions, making me concerned for safety. The sneaker is not perfect, but if you're looking for a comfortable and supportive walking shoe and can ignore the heaviness and noise, the Brooks Addiction Walker 2 11.5 Men's Black might be worth a try. 🔗Comfortable Brooks Divide 2 Trail Shoeshttps://preview.redd.it/vqvn6ya9skuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=abfd900ebdaf3a0bd82e86de0fd062fa2b362488 I've been using the Brooks Divide 2 trail shoes for a few weeks now, and I must say, they've made my trail running experience quite enjoyable. The shoes are surprisingly comfortable, with just the right amount of cushioning and support. The double jacquard air mesh upper gives a snug fit without feeling too tight, while the removable BioMoGo DNA cushioning insole molds perfectly to my feet. One feature that really stands out is the midfoot wrap. It provides ample support and stability, making me feel secure even on rough terrains. Another highlight is the TrailTack sticky rubber outsole which offers excellent traction, ensuring that my footing remains solid on both wet and dry surfaces. However, there are a couple of things that could be improved. Firstly, the shoes are a bit heavier than I would like. While this hasn't significantly impacted my performance, lighter shoes might be preferable for some users. Secondly, the color options are quite limited. Although the quarry/grey/dark blue color scheme looks decent, I would have appreciated more variety. Overall, the Brooks Divide 2 trail shoes are a solid choice for anyone looking to transition from asphalt to trails. They offer great comfort, support, and traction, making your trail running experience enjoyable and safe. 🔗Brooks Addiction Walker Suede Wide 15 Shoe for Menhttps://preview.redd.it/o1ixpkt9skuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c394ba41ceb50e276b5da1be7215ce59b739e2fd I've been a fan of the Brooks Addiction Walker Suede for quite some time now, using it as my go-to shoe for everyday activities. The suede material not only adds a touch of sophistication but also provides great comfort on my feet. I found the BioMoGo DNA cushioning system to be incredibly supportive and comfortable, making it perfect for long walks or even light sports. One thing that stood out to me about this shoe is its slip-resistant feature. This has been a breeze to walk on wet surfaces without worrying about losing traction. Additionally, the suede upper gives it a modern and stylish look without compromising on comfort. However, I did experience some tightness around the heel region in the initial stages, but that improved over time. Also, the range of colors might be limited for some people's taste. Overall, the Brooks Addiction Walker Suede has been an excellent addition to my shoe collection, providing both style and function. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a comfortable, supportive, and stylish walking shoe. 🔗Women's Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Running Shoeshttps://preview.redd.it/y8owqqeaskuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4f61b54b04f8dd3e4e5128f03f7149f15ec3abcd If you're on the lookout for a reliable and comfortable pair of running shoes, the women's Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is your go-to choice. I've been using these shoes for several weeks now and I must say, they don't disappoint. They offer a perfect blend of support and comfort, making them ideal for long or short runs. What I particularly love about the Adrenaline GTS 22 is its Smart Support system. It prevents unnecessary movements, ensuring you maintain your natural stride even when you're tired, which is a boon for marathon runners. Furthermore, the new DNA LOFT cushioning provides a soft and smooth ride, making every step feel like a breeze. Another high-point is the Segmented Crash Pad. It's designed to provide smooth transitions from landing to take-off, greatly improving my running efficiency. However, there's room for improvement as well. Some users have reported durability issues with the previous versions. Also, the shoes tend to produce a noise, which might be a concern for some. Overall, the women's Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is a reliable pair of running shoes known for their comfort, support, and style. They might need some improvements in the durability department, but they're still a top choice for runners. Personally, I'm not a big fan of the tongue's length and the wear on the inner fabric could be minimized. However, these minor issues don't overshadow the comfort, support, and flexibility that these shoes provide. If you're a runner, I'd definitely recommend giving the Adrenaline GTS 22 a try. 🔗Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Running Shoes for Menhttps://preview.redd.it/p6jpofuaskuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8745d77268422b5f6b88842ede19d25fec0359ba I've been using the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Running Shoes for a few weeks now, and I must say, they have been an absolute game-changer in my daily runs. The first thing that caught my eye was the stylish design - it's sleek, modern, and comes in various eye-catching colors. But of course, the true test lies in the performance. From the moment I slipped them on, I was blown away by the comfort these shoes offer. The engineered air mesh upper provides breathability, keeping my toes cool even during long, sweaty runs. The cushioning system is another highlight - it effectively absorbs impact, reducing stress on my joints and minimizing fatigue. One feature that sets the Adrenaline GTS 23 apart from other running shoes is its GuideRails technology. It subtly guides my feet in their natural motion, preventing excess inward rolling and ensuring a smooth, stable ride. This has been especially beneficial for me as I used to suffer from achy ankles and fatigued arches. In terms of versatility, these shoes are incredibly adaptable. Whether I'm pounding the pavement during a long run or going about my daily activities, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 provides the support and comfort I need. The reliable traction and durability allow for smooth transitions across different terrains, making them perfect for various activities. In conclusion, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Running Shoes have truly exceeded my expectations. They offer unparalleled comfort, support, and responsive cushioning, making them an excellent choice for runners of all levels and gaits. If you're looking for a shoe that will enhance your running experience, look no further than the Adrenaline GTS 23. 🔗Comfortable and Supportive Brooks Ghost Max Walking Shoeshttps://preview.redd.it/wkqmxsgbskuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2669f9f2d5dc60a00cec6d32c18d622416aeb2d6 As a reviewer who has been using the Brooks Women's Ghost Max 7.5 running shoes in my daily life, I can say that these shoes are a game-changer when it comes to comfort and performance. The high stack of super-soft DNA LOFT v2 cushioning ensures a cloud-like experience, making me feel like I'm floating on air as I walk or run. I've especially loved the GlideRoll Rocker transition technology, which has made my stride smoother and more efficient. The broad base provides excellent stability and impact protection, making it easier for me to navigate various terrains with ease. The shoes are also incredibly lightweight, making them perfect for long-distance runs or even casual wear. The seamless design and wide range of colors available make them a stylish addition to any outfit. However, I did notice that the insoles felt a bit hard after wearing them for extended periods. This might be a concern for some people, but it hasn't affected my overall enjoyment of the shoes. In conclusion, the Brooks Women's Ghost Max 7.5 running shoes are not only comfortable and stylish but also highly functional and supportive. They've been a welcome addition to my shoe collection, and I can't wait to see how they perform on my next marathon! 🔗Brooks Addiction Walker Suede Wide 15 - Max Support Running Shoehttps://preview.redd.it/fl0jvzxbskuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5c448bfb1397772590409b37324fcb0806d2701a I recently decided to give the Brooks Addiction Walker Suede Wide a try, and I'm so glad I did. The first thing that struck me about this shoe is the comfort. When I put them on, it was like walking on clouds. The BioMoGo DNA cushioning made a world of difference, especially as I'm someone who spends a lot of time on their feet. Another great feature is the slip-resistant sole. Living in an area with unpredictable weather, this has been a game-changer for me. I no longer have to worry about stepping on wet pavement or loose gravel. Plus, the suede upper gives the shoe a modern, stylish look that I absolutely love. However, I did notice a few drawbacks. The most significant one for me was the lack of color options. While the peacoat color is quite appealing, I think it would be great if there were more choices available. Additionally, I found the shoes to be a bit tight around the sides of the heel, which was somewhat uncomfortable. Overall, I'm very satisfied with the Brooks Addiction Walker Suede Wide. The comfort, support, and slip-resistance make these an excellent choice for daily wear or long walks. While there are a few minor issues that could be improved, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. If you're in the market for a new pair of walking shoes, I definitely recommend giving these a try. 🔗comfortable lightweight Brooks Ghost 14 shoe for menhttps://preview.redd.it/h9fmmvmcskuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d1c9d1fd6c120ac14ea4a5763e03d288c97e5aad In the world of running shoes, the Brooks Ghost 14 stands out as a reliable partner for various terrains and distances. When I first slipped them on, the textile sock-like fit was an instant comfort zone. It not only facilitated breathability but also felt incredibly soft and snug. The secure lace-up ensured that my feet stayed put even during my most intense runs. The new softer cushioned midsole with a segmented crash pad made every step feel light and smooth. It was a testament to how well this shoe performed under tough conditions. The padded tongue, heel, and ankle collar offered additional comfort, making me feel immensely supported throughout my journey. However, durability was a bit of an issue. While the durable grip rubber outsole was impressive, some parts of the shoe seemed to wear out faster than expected. The 3D Fit Print upper worked wonders in adjusting to my foot shape, giving me that customized feel that I craved. Plus, the sleek design definitely added to the shoe's overall aesthetic appeal. All in all, the Brooks Ghost 14 is a reliable pair of running shoes. Its comfort, responsiveness, and style make it a strong contender for anyone looking to upgrade their running gear. Just keep an eye on its durability - you might need to replace them sooner than expected. 🔗Brooks Trace 2 Men's Running Shoes: Smooth Transitions, Supportive Fit, 45.3% Recycled Materialshttps://preview.redd.it/7t79hb7dskuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cbdf19691191fa75e95eba251a85c156c80c00ad So, let me tell you a little story about these Trace 2 shoes, man. You know, I've been running for years now and my feet have seen more shoes than a shoe store. But these ones from Brooks? Oh man, they're like comfort on feet! The first time I laced them up, it felt like I was puttin' on a pair of bedroom slippers, y'know? They've got this soft cushioning that makes your legs feel like they're runnin' on air. And trust me, with the amount of miles I've logged in these babies, I've tested that out in all types of weather and they hold up real good. Plus, they've got this kinda narrow fit which suits my feet just right. But, of course, no shoe is perfect. Sometimes, even though they feel light as a feather, it's easy to feel the ground beneath you. Now, that might not matter much when you're on a smooth road but let me tell ya, it can be a little tough when you're hoppin' over rocks or rough terrain. Overall, though, these shoes are pretty solid, man. They've made my runs more comfortable and enjoyable which, let's be real, is kind of the point of running shoes in the first place. So if you're lookin' for a new pair of kicks to hit the pavement with, why not give the Trace 2 a shot? 🔗Men's Brooks Dyad 11 Neutral Running Shoes - Gray/Peacoathttps://preview.redd.it/2pl6t3vdskuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d1927db0088453e1e35226879f56c9ca69122b75 I've been using the Brooks Men's Dyad 11 for a while now and they're quite comfortable. The BioMoGo DNA midsole gives a soft cushioning and effectively protects my feet from rocks when I'm out for a hike. The Dual Arch Pods with a wide platform provide a lot of stability without making my neutral stride feel restricted. I also appreciate the air mesh upper and spacious fit that accommodates wider feet. The blown carbon rubber outsole offers great traction on various terrains. However, there's a trade-off. While they're comfortable, these shoes can feel a bit heavy at times, especially when I'm walking for longer periods. The collar lining tends to pill and look worn out rather quickly, which can be a little disappointing. Additionally, the midsole can feel firm initially, but softens up with use. In summary, the Brooks Men's Dyad 11 shoes are a stable and comfortable choice for those looking for extra support and a roomy fit. But, they might not be the best option for those who prefer lightweight running shoes or don't want to deal with the initial firmness of the midsole. 🔗Wide Fit Slim Support Running Shoes for Womenhttps://preview.redd.it/ksnwxxgeskuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=91fe5d6c96ed61425e7c5c16b1979ae107a86127 I recently got the chance to try out the Brooks Ariel '20 running shoes - and boy, am I glad I did! As someone who spends a lot of time on their feet, both for work and recreation, finding the perfect pair of shoes that provide both comfort and support is essential. And the Ariel '20 doesn't disappoint in either department. First off, let's talk about how comfortable these shoes are. From the moment you slip them on, it feels like your feet are being gently cradled in a warm, cushy blanket. This is all thanks to the Max Cushion feature, which offers the most cushioning out of any Brooks shoe. Every step feels firm yet cushioned, making it easy to stride for miles without experiencing fatigue or discomfort. In terms of support, the Ariel '20 is designed with Motion Control technology that caters specifically to those with flat or low arches. As someone with such an arch type, I can attest to how effective this feature is in stabilizing my feet and preventing excessive movement. It's like having a personal guardian keeping your feet in perfect alignment with every stride. Now, on to the cons. While the engineered mesh upper is great for breathability, it seems to be slightly less durable than I would have hoped. After a few weeks of regular use, I started to notice some minor wear and tear on the mesh material. Additionally, the GuideRails technology can make for quite a noisy walking or running experience. While this may not be a deal-breaker for some, it could potentially be an issue if you're looking for something more discreet. In conclusion, the Brooks Ariel '20 running shoes have been a real game-changer for me. The combination of comfort, support, and a stylish design make them the perfect choice for anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet. While there are some drawbacks to consider (namely durability and noise), these shoes are definitely worth considering if you're in the market for a new pair of kicks. 🔗Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22: Supportive Running Shoes for Menhttps://preview.redd.it/7abp3l1fskuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3cb09aaa2d08fd5245f813593078dfbe33bfe813 I recently purchased the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 for my daily running sessions, and I must say, it has been a game-changer. As someone who suffers from overpronation, finding a supportive and comfortable pair of shoes can be quite challenging. However, the Adrenaline GTS 22 has managed to address both these issues, making my runs delightful. The first thing that struck me about these shoes was their sleek design. The combination of peacoat, India ink, and grenadine colors gives them an attractive appearance that sets them apart from other running shoes I've tried. But it's not just about looks; the Adrenaline GTS 22 offers exceptional support, especially with its GuideRails technology. This innovative system ensures that my natural stride remains stable even when I get tired during long runs. I appreciate how the soft transitions provided by the DNA Loft midsole and the Segmented Crash Pad work together to provide a smooth ride. It feels like I'm gliding across the ground with every step, which has significantly improved my overall running experience. One aspect that I was initially skeptical about was their comfort level. However, after putting them on for the first time, I knew I made the right choice. The 3D Fit Print technology creates a snug fit that adapts to my foot's shape, providing optimal support without compromising on comfort. On the downside, I noticed that the shoes can be a bit noisy when walking on certain surfaces. While this doesn't affect their performance, it might be an issue for those who prefer silent footwear. Additionally, although the shoes are lightweight, they may not be suitable for those looking for ultra-minimalistic running shoes. In conclusion, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 has exceeded my expectations in terms of comfort, support, and style. If you're in the market for a reliable pair of running shoes that can help improve your performance, I highly recommend giving these a try. You won't be disappointed! Buyer's Guidehttps://preview.redd.it/rojge96jskuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8f0a396780f55e1743be797f8c26b27052917931 None FAQhttps://preview.redd.it/63r1a0ljskuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ae4de3ca45ce4f4741d682badfe17c18c54816fd What makes Brooks walking shoes stand out from other walking shoes?Brooks walking shoes are designed with the superior comfort, cushioning, breathability, and traction that the brand has long been known for. They feature advanced technology like DNA LOFT cushioning, which adapts to your unique stride and weight for increased comfort and performance. In addition, their walking shoes are made with moisture-managing materials and mesh uppers that allow your feet to breathe, helping you stay fresh and dry throughout your walk.Do Brooks walking shoes have a gender-specific design?https://preview.redd.it/3wfkm29kskuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=81aef4f2c3ec22f525574abfa97597b503e9e464 Yes, most Brooks walking shoes come in both men's and women's specific designs. These designs take into account the distinct anatomical differences between males and females to provide a better fit, comfortable support, and overall walking experience. Can I use Brooks walking shoes for other activities like jogging or running?While some light jogging or short runs may be possible in certain types of Brooks walking shoes, they are primarily designed and optimized for walking. For running or more intensive activities, it's recommended to select a shoe specifically designed for those purposes, like the Brooks running shoes. https://preview.redd.it/3b0hyxrkskuc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0dc480168d87f83184c897faf9507b254e2e04cc How can I determine my shoe size for Brooks walking shoes?To find the right shoe size for Brooks walking shoes, utilize the brand's size chart and measure your feet. Make sure to measure the length and width of both feet, as they may differ in size. When selecting your shoe size, always choose the larger of the two measurements, as it's important to ensure your walking shoes have enough space for your feet to comfortably spread and flex.What is the difference between the various models of Brooks walking shoes?
How should I care for and maintain my Brooks walking shoes?To prolong the life of your Brooks walking shoes, be sure to follow these care and maintenance tips: * Clean your shoes regularly: Use a mild detergent and a soft brush or cloth to remove dirt and grime, then stuff with newspaper to help the shoes dry and maintain their shape.
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2024.04.12 17:03 Zeverious [US-PA][H] Black Alu LZ Physix with extras, Artisans [W] Paypal
Timestamp : https://imgur.com/a/egcXXwH
All prices include shipping within the US
Not really into the hobby anymore, all prices are OBO so just make an offer really.
LZ Physix built with L/F Holy Koalas (Soldiered) on CF plate, comes with case, matching wrist rest, extra solder pcb, 2 extra foam sets and PC plate, as well as Aluvia with it's extras - 450
If you'd like to purchase it without Aluvia just lmk we'll work out a price.
Artisans -
- Gothcaps cornelius section -
Gen 2 single shot corns - 60$ each ( Dark grey, light grey, pink, and minty green)
Gen 2 corn Diamond Nebula (2 .10 carat diamonds for eyes) - 340$
Gen 2 corn Santa Muerte (ruby) - 100
Gen 2 "Candy corn" - 75
Gen 2 corn Withering Manawraith - 100
Gen 2 corn Hemostasis - 75
Gen 2 corn Fear of Corn - 75
Gen 2 Tiffy Tiara - 75
Gen 2 Beige Rage - 75
Gen 1 Black drank communion - 200
Gen 1 Dark night - 250
Gen 1 Jealous Jason - 200
Gen 1 Wraith walker - 200
Gen 1 Venta Gold - 300
Gen 1 Molten Metal Murder - 225
All Gen 1 caps that have an authentication card come with it.
PJKs- 150 each
Sodie caps - 75 Each
Pewter Sirius - 125
Lividity caps - 60 each
KUG bag - 100
Keymakers - 40 each
Wildstory caps - 80 each
Mingming Bongo - 500
Salvadors - 80 each
LMK if i'm missing anything, like i said im kinda out of the hobby now a days, so these prices might be way off. If you see anything you like just shoot me an offer if you don't like the price, I tried looking at prices but most of these are guesses or retail.
submitted by Zeverious to mechmarket [link] [comments]
All prices include shipping within the US
Not really into the hobby anymore, all prices are OBO so just make an offer really.
LZ Physix built with L/F Holy Koalas (Soldiered) on CF plate, comes with case, matching wrist rest, extra solder pcb, 2 extra foam sets and PC plate, as well as Aluvia with it's extras - 450
If you'd like to purchase it without Aluvia just lmk we'll work out a price.
Artisans -
- Gothcaps cornelius section -
Gen 2 single shot corns - 60$ each ( Dark grey, light grey, pink, and minty green)
Gen 2 corn Diamond Nebula (2 .10 carat diamonds for eyes) - 340$
Gen 2 corn Santa Muerte (ruby) - 100
Gen 2 "Candy corn" - 75
Gen 2 corn Withering Manawraith - 100
Gen 2 corn Hemostasis - 75
Gen 2 corn Fear of Corn - 75
Gen 2 Tiffy Tiara - 75
Gen 2 Beige Rage - 75
Gen 1 Black drank communion - 200
Gen 1 Dark night - 250
Gen 1 Jealous Jason - 200
Gen 1 Wraith walker - 200
Gen 1 Venta Gold - 300
Gen 1 Molten Metal Murder - 225
All Gen 1 caps that have an authentication card come with it.
PJKs- 150 each
Sodie caps - 75 Each
Pewter Sirius - 125
Lividity caps - 60 each
KUG bag - 100
Keymakers - 40 each
Wildstory caps - 80 each
Mingming Bongo - 500
Salvadors - 80 each
LMK if i'm missing anything, like i said im kinda out of the hobby now a days, so these prices might be way off. If you see anything you like just shoot me an offer if you don't like the price, I tried looking at prices but most of these are guesses or retail.
2024.04.10 14:23 Zeverious [US-PA][H] Black Alu LZ Physix with extras, Artisans [W] Paypal
Timestamp : https://imgur.com/a/egcXXwH
All prices include shipping within the US
Kind of lost interest in the hobby outside of some of my personal favorites so prices might be off, if you're interested in anything please just send me an offer you think is reasonable. If you'd like more pics also let me know i'd be happy to provide any more info :)
LZ Physix built with L/F Holy Koalas (Soldiered) on CF plate, comes with extra solder pcb, 2 extra foam sets and PC plate, as well as Aluvia with it's extras - 600 If you'd like to purchase it without Aluvia just lmk we'll work out a price.
Artisans - - Gothcaps cornelius section - Gen 2 single shot corns - 60$ each ( Dark grey, light grey, pink, and minty green) Gen 2 corn Diamond Nebula (2 .10 carat diamonds for eyes) - 350$ Gen 2 corn Santa Muerte (ruby) - 100 Gen 2 "Candy corn" - 75 Gen 2 corn Withering Manawraith - 100 Gen 2 corn Hemostasis - 75 Gen 2 corn Fear of Corn - 75 Gen 2 Tiffy Tiara - 75 Gen 2 Beige Rage - 75 Gen 1 Black drank communion - 200 Gen 1 Dark night - 250 Gen 1 Jealous Jason - 200 Gen 1 Wraith walker - 200 Gen 1 Venta Gold - 300 Gen 1 Molten Metal Murder - 225 All Gen 1 caps that have an authentication card come with it.
PJKs- 150 each Sodie caps - 75 Each Pewter Sirius - 125 Lividity caps - 60 each KUG bag - 100 Keymakers - 40 each Wildstory caps - 80 each Mingming Bongo - 500 Salvadors - 80 each
LMK if i'm missing anything, like i said im kinda out of the hobby now a days, so these prices might be way off. If you see anything you like just shoot me an offer if you don't like the price, I tried looking at prices but most of these are guesses or retail.
submitted by Zeverious to mechmarket [link] [comments]
All prices include shipping within the US
Kind of lost interest in the hobby outside of some of my personal favorites so prices might be off, if you're interested in anything please just send me an offer you think is reasonable. If you'd like more pics also let me know i'd be happy to provide any more info :)
LZ Physix built with L/F Holy Koalas (Soldiered) on CF plate, comes with extra solder pcb, 2 extra foam sets and PC plate, as well as Aluvia with it's extras - 600 If you'd like to purchase it without Aluvia just lmk we'll work out a price.
Artisans - - Gothcaps cornelius section - Gen 2 single shot corns - 60$ each ( Dark grey, light grey, pink, and minty green) Gen 2 corn Diamond Nebula (2 .10 carat diamonds for eyes) - 350$ Gen 2 corn Santa Muerte (ruby) - 100 Gen 2 "Candy corn" - 75 Gen 2 corn Withering Manawraith - 100 Gen 2 corn Hemostasis - 75 Gen 2 corn Fear of Corn - 75 Gen 2 Tiffy Tiara - 75 Gen 2 Beige Rage - 75 Gen 1 Black drank communion - 200 Gen 1 Dark night - 250 Gen 1 Jealous Jason - 200 Gen 1 Wraith walker - 200 Gen 1 Venta Gold - 300 Gen 1 Molten Metal Murder - 225 All Gen 1 caps that have an authentication card come with it.
PJKs- 150 each Sodie caps - 75 Each Pewter Sirius - 125 Lividity caps - 60 each KUG bag - 100 Keymakers - 40 each Wildstory caps - 80 each Mingming Bongo - 500 Salvadors - 80 each
LMK if i'm missing anything, like i said im kinda out of the hobby now a days, so these prices might be way off. If you see anything you like just shoot me an offer if you don't like the price, I tried looking at prices but most of these are guesses or retail.
2024.04.09 12:24 rusticgorilla Courts, legislatures limit regulation of hazardous forever chemicals
If you are in the position to support my work, I have a patreon, venmo, and a paypal set up. Just three dollars a month makes a huge difference! No pressure though, I will keep posting these pieces publicly no matter what - paywalls suck.
You can signup to receive a (somewhat) monthly email with links to my posts or subscribe to Keep Track’s Substack (RSS link).
With such pervasive use, it was inevitable that PFAS would spread throughout the environment. Studies identified high concentrations in soil, air, water, seafood, processed foods (likely due to the packaging), wild animals, and humans. In fact, according to the U.S. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, “most people in the United States have been exposed to PFAS and have PFAS in their blood.”
Research into the effects of PFAS exposure in humans is ongoing. Epidemiological studies, summarized in the academic journal Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, “revealed associations between exposure to specific PFAS and a variety of health effects, including altered immune and thyroid function, liver disease, lipid and insulin dysregulation, kidney disease, adverse reproductive and developmental outcomes, and cancer.” While animal studies do not always correlate with human health effects due to physiologic differences between species, laboratory animal research indicates PFAS can cause damage to the liver and the immune system as well as low birth weight, birth defects, delayed development, and newborn deaths.
The EPA ordered Inhance to cease manufacturing PFAS under TSCA section 5(f), which allows the EPA to regulate any “significant new use” of a chemical substance.
As a result of the court’s decision, the EPA has limited power to regulate ongoing, but as yet unidentified, uses of dangerous chemicals in Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi—already one of the most polluted areas in the nation. Inhance will be free to continue producing PFAS as part of its fluorination process while Section 6 plays out (pending further legal action).
A 2022 survey of hundreds of private wells across the state found nearly three-quarters contained at least one PFAS chemical. The highest concentrations have been found in communities near companies and utilities that employed firefighting foam containing PFAS, called aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF). In Marinette and Peshtigo, for example, a company now known as Tyco Fire Products tested AFFF outdoors for over 50 years, allowing the chemicals to wash into the groundwater and sewer system.
Meanwhile, a “toxic plume” of PFAS 2.5 kilometers wide originating from the Tyco site was detected last year in Green Bay, part of Lake Michigan and the Great Lakes. Roughly 40 million people get their drinking water from the Great Lakes, an area already containing PFAS as reflected by elevated levels in local freshwater fish.
The ongoing legal fight over financial liability for remediation is common in hazardous material spills and gets even more complicated when governmental organizations lack clear oversight. In Wisconsin, the DNR was prevented from setting groundwater limits for PFAS by a Republican law called the REINS Act. Signed in 2017 by then-Gov. Scott Walker (R), the REINS Act requires agencies to stop work on any rule if an economic impact analysis indicates that compliance and implementation costs will exceed $10 million in any two-year period. Because the DNR determined that the cost of compliance for industrial facilities and wastewater treatment plants would be $33 million over the first two years, it was forced to stop working on the PFAS limits and seek permission to continue from the Republican-led legislature. Two Democrat-sponsored bills (SB 1022 and SB 1119) would have allowed the DNR to resume its work no matter the projected compliance costs, but the GOP majority did not take action on either bill before the 2024 session adjourned.
A state court ruling last month also constrained the DNR’s ability to regulate PFAS. Two conservative-aligned judges on the Wisconsin Court of Appeals ruled that the agency cannot force polluters to clean up hazardous contamination without first going through the legislature to establish specific limits on the compounds—a step never before required under the Spills Law. Judge Lisa Neubauer, appointed by former Democratic Governor Jim Doyle, dissented:
“Nearly half of US prisons draw water likely contaminated with toxic PFAS – report,” The Guardian
“States work to ban period products containing toxic PFAS after 2023 report,” The Guardian
“Court approves 3M settlement over ‘forever chemicals’ in public drinking water systems,” AP
“US military says it is immune to dozens of PFAS lawsuits,” Reuters
“DuPont $1.18 Billion PFAS Settlement Gets Final Court Approval,” Bloomberg Law
“Massive 3M, DuPont PFAS Class Dismantled by Sixth Circuit,” Bloomberg Law
submitted by rusticgorilla to Keep_Track [link] [comments]
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Background
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of thousands of synthetic chemicals used in consumer products around the world. Due to their molecular structure, PFAS do not easily degrade and can last for millennia, leading to the moniker “forever chemicals.”PFAS, a group of manufactured chemicals commonly used since the 1940s, are called “forever chemicals” for a reason. Bacteria can’t eat them; fire can’t incinerate them; and water can’t dilute them. And, if these toxic chemicals are buried, they leach into surrounding soil, becoming a persistent problem for generations to come…The secret to PFAS’s indestructibility lies in its chemical bonds. PFAS contains many carbon-fluorine bonds, which are the strongest bonds in organic chemistry. As the most electronegative element in the periodic table, fluorine wants electrons — and badly. Carbon, on the other hand, is more willing to give up its electrons. “When you have that kind of difference between two atoms — and they are roughly the same size, which carbon and fluorine are — that’s the recipe for a really strong bond,” Dichtel explained.Today, PFAS are mostly used for their chemical and thermal stability and capacity to repel water and grease. Variants are found in food packaging, the coating of nonstick pans, stain-resistant furniture and carpets, water-resistant fabrics, personal care products, electronics, automobiles, and the aerospace and defense industries.
With such pervasive use, it was inevitable that PFAS would spread throughout the environment. Studies identified high concentrations in soil, air, water, seafood, processed foods (likely due to the packaging), wild animals, and humans. In fact, according to the U.S. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, “most people in the United States have been exposed to PFAS and have PFAS in their blood.”
Research into the effects of PFAS exposure in humans is ongoing. Epidemiological studies, summarized in the academic journal Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, “revealed associations between exposure to specific PFAS and a variety of health effects, including altered immune and thyroid function, liver disease, lipid and insulin dysregulation, kidney disease, adverse reproductive and developmental outcomes, and cancer.” While animal studies do not always correlate with human health effects due to physiologic differences between species, laboratory animal research indicates PFAS can cause damage to the liver and the immune system as well as low birth weight, birth defects, delayed development, and newborn deaths.
Fifth Circuit
A three-judge panel of the 5th Circuit overturned a ban last month on plastic containers contaminated with a PFAS compound known to cause cancer. Inhance Technologies, based in Houston, Texas, produces approximately 200 million fluorinated high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic containers using a process that creates a toxic PFAS called PFOA. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there is no safe level of exposure to PFOA. Neither the EPA nor, allegedly, Inhance were aware that the company’s fluorination process created PFAS until 2020, when an environmental group notified the agency.The EPA ordered Inhance to cease manufacturing PFAS under TSCA section 5(f), which allows the EPA to regulate any “significant new use” of a chemical substance.
...EPA has determined that three of the PFAS (PFOA, perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) and perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA)) are highly toxic and present unreasonable risks that cannot be prevented other than through prohibition of manufacture. Therefore, under TSCA section 5(f), EPA is prohibiting the continued manufacture of PFOA, PFNA and PFDA that are produced from the fluorination of HDPE. EPA also determined that the remaining six of the nine PFAS chemicals manufactured by Inhance may present an unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment and, under TSCA section 5(e), is requiring the company to cease manufacture of these chemicals, and to perform additional testing if it intends to restart production.Inhance sued the EPA, arguing that its manufacturing process is not a “new use” because it has been creating fluorinated containers using the same process since 1983. The EPA countered that a “significant new use” is any use “not previously known to” the agency. When crafting rules to regulate PFAS in 2015, the EPA required companies to submit their prior manufacture or use of PFAS for approval—a step that Inhance did not take, as it claims it was unaware it was creating PFAS. Without approval for an “ongoing use,” the EPA treated Inhance’s process as a “significant new use” enabling the agency to use Section 5 for an expedited review.
- See this amicus brief for a more in-depth explanation of how the EPA handled the PFAS rule-making and exempted certain pre-existing uses from the rule.
- It is worth noting that Inhance’s claimed ignorance that it was producing PFAS is suspect because a 2011 scientific study, conducted three years before the EPA’s rule, found PFAS in their company’s containers. Additionally, according to The Guardian, “Since 2020, Inhance appears to have repeatedly lied to regulators and customers about whether PFAS leached from its containers, and for several years resisted EPA’s demands to submit its process for review.”
...because Inhance did not possess “extraordinary intuition” or the “aid of a psychic” to foresee that the EPA would regulate the fluorination industry, Inhance faces being shuttered by the agency’s belated “discovery” of its process. Fortunately for Inhance, such foresight is “more than the law requires.” We therefore eschew the EPA’s interpretation of “significant new use” and instead adopt Inhance’s more straightforward interpretation of the statute. And that dooms the EPA’s orders at issue here, because Inhance’s fluorination process was not a significant new use within the purview of Section 5.Instead, the EPA will have to use Section 6 to regulate chemicals, including PFAS, that are already in use even if there is a serious threat to public health. Section 6 is a years-long process that requires a cost-benefit analysis, weighing the negative effects of the chemical substance against the economic consequences of prohibiting the substance. This would likely result in a more favorable outcome for Inhance, which argued before the 5th Circuit that if the EPA’s orders were to stand, the company would go bankrupt.
As a result of the court’s decision, the EPA has limited power to regulate ongoing, but as yet unidentified, uses of dangerous chemicals in Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi—already one of the most polluted areas in the nation. Inhance will be free to continue producing PFAS as part of its fluorination process while Section 6 plays out (pending further legal action).
Wisconsin
Wisconsin is in the middle of a PFAS crisis: Numerous areas around the state are so contaminated that their water is unsafe to drink, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is frozen by “excessive costs,” and Republican lawmakers are playing games with funding meant to assist with clean up efforts.A 2022 survey of hundreds of private wells across the state found nearly three-quarters contained at least one PFAS chemical. The highest concentrations have been found in communities near companies and utilities that employed firefighting foam containing PFAS, called aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF). In Marinette and Peshtigo, for example, a company now known as Tyco Fire Products tested AFFF outdoors for over 50 years, allowing the chemicals to wash into the groundwater and sewer system.
In 2017, the state learned that Tyco, a subsidiary of global chemical conglomerate Johnson Controls International and one of the largest employers in the region, had been discharging PFAS into local streams and ditches in the region. According to state records, Tyco knew about these elevated levels at least four years earlier and failed to warn residents…The pollution stems from Tyco’s operations at a fire testing center that operated from the 1960s to 2017. This facility is located on the southern edge of the city of Marinette, roughly a mile from the town of Peshtigo.Testing found more than 400 parts per trillion of PFOA and more than 5,000 parts per trillion of PFOS in the area’s water, far above the state’s standard of 70 parts per trillion and the EPA’s proposed limit of 4 parts per trillion. Residents have been drinking and cooking with bottled water for years with no clear end in sight.
First responders and military personnel would light planes, automobiles, and other heavy-duty equipment on fire at a location near the area high school, and then test the fire-suppressant foam Tyco sold. Afterward, gallons of foam would be washed away off the pavement into nearby streams where it would seep into the surrounding groundwater, eventually making its way into Peshtigo drinking wells.
Meanwhile, a “toxic plume” of PFAS 2.5 kilometers wide originating from the Tyco site was detected last year in Green Bay, part of Lake Michigan and the Great Lakes. Roughly 40 million people get their drinking water from the Great Lakes, an area already containing PFAS as reflected by elevated levels in local freshwater fish.
- For more information on the geographical spread of PFAS in Wisconsin, see the DNR’s interactive map
The ongoing legal fight over financial liability for remediation is common in hazardous material spills and gets even more complicated when governmental organizations lack clear oversight. In Wisconsin, the DNR was prevented from setting groundwater limits for PFAS by a Republican law called the REINS Act. Signed in 2017 by then-Gov. Scott Walker (R), the REINS Act requires agencies to stop work on any rule if an economic impact analysis indicates that compliance and implementation costs will exceed $10 million in any two-year period. Because the DNR determined that the cost of compliance for industrial facilities and wastewater treatment plants would be $33 million over the first two years, it was forced to stop working on the PFAS limits and seek permission to continue from the Republican-led legislature. Two Democrat-sponsored bills (SB 1022 and SB 1119) would have allowed the DNR to resume its work no matter the projected compliance costs, but the GOP majority did not take action on either bill before the 2024 session adjourned.
A state court ruling last month also constrained the DNR’s ability to regulate PFAS. Two conservative-aligned judges on the Wisconsin Court of Appeals ruled that the agency cannot force polluters to clean up hazardous contamination without first going through the legislature to establish specific limits on the compounds—a step never before required under the Spills Law. Judge Lisa Neubauer, appointed by former Democratic Governor Jim Doyle, dissented:
Wisconsin’s Spills Law imposes certain obligations on parties who are responsible for discharges of substances that are hazardous to human health or the environment. Since the law’s enactment in 1978, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has overseen more than 40,000 hazardous substance cleanups. Today, for the first time since the statute was enacted, the court holds that the DNR must promulgate rules identifying certain substances as hazardous before the Spills Law applies to discharges of those substances…The statute defines hazardous substance in broad, fact-specific terms and leaves it to responsible parties, in the first instance, to identify and notify the DNR of discharges of such substances. No provision in the Spills Law requires the DNR to promulgate a rule identifying a substance as a hazardous substance before the law’s investigation and remediation obligations apply to it. The majority errs in imposing such a requirement today. I respectfully dissent.To make matters worse, the Republican legislature is withholding $125 million passed in last year’s budget to help local governments and landowners clean up PFAS pollution. Joint Finance Committee co-chairs Sen. Howard Marklein (R) and Rep. Mark Born (R) are insisting that Gov. Evers first sign SB 312, a bill laying out the legislature’s rules for spending the funds. However, Evers has promised to veto SB 312 due to “‘poison pill’ provisions designed to benefit polluters that could functionally give polluters a free pass from cleaning up their own spills and contamination.”
Under Wisconsin’s existing environmental protection laws, any party causing, possessing, or controlling a hazardous substance that has been released into the environment is required to clean it up. SB 312 specifically prohibits the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) from taking enforcement action against polluters and contaminators so long as the polluter allows the DNR to remediate the site at the DNR’s own expense. That is, under SB 312, as passed by Republicans, so long as a polluter allows the DNR to clean up the contamination using Wisconsin taxpayer dollars, the DNR may not take enforcement action against the polluter…Gov. Evers proposed a compromise, containing all provisions of SB 312 that don’t limit the government’s ability to hold polluters accountable, but GOP leaders do not appear ready to accept.
Importantly, as noted above, SB 312 does not release or impact in any way the existing $125 million biennial budget investment to fight PFAS statewide. Thus, the governor vetoing SB 312 will have no effect whatsoever on whether the $125 million to combat PFAS remains available or will be released by the Republican-controlled Joint Finance Committee—that decision remains Republican committee members’ alone. For over 230 days, Republican committee members have been able to release the $125 million to combat PFAS contaminants across Wisconsin at any time, and that remains the case today.
Related stories
“New study suggests we're likely underestimating the future impact of PFAS in the environment,” Phys.org“Nearly half of US prisons draw water likely contaminated with toxic PFAS – report,” The Guardian
“States work to ban period products containing toxic PFAS after 2023 report,” The Guardian
“Court approves 3M settlement over ‘forever chemicals’ in public drinking water systems,” AP
“US military says it is immune to dozens of PFAS lawsuits,” Reuters
“DuPont $1.18 Billion PFAS Settlement Gets Final Court Approval,” Bloomberg Law
“Massive 3M, DuPont PFAS Class Dismantled by Sixth Circuit,” Bloomberg Law
2024.04.08 15:48 YeetManXD69 New Sunscreen
After a long drive, I sit on the sand, squinting in the harsh sunlight. The sound of kids playing and the seagulls cacophonous squawking blend together over the rolling waves. Saltwater and sunscreen scents the surrounding air around us. My Dad and brother set up the umbrellas and chairs while I lounge, in the singular chair I set up. Yes I know, I'm lazy.
“Oh hey, did you see that picture they got of the moon?” Jeremy says. He drops the umbrella in a hurry to grab his phone. In doing so, he cuts his arm on the metal pole.
"Jesus! Watch what you're doing!" says my father.
"At least I'm doing something!"
Part of me feels guilty, but what am I to do? It’s not my fault he’s always been a dumbass and I've always been the favorite. Jeremy dusts sand off of the screen of his phone with his shirt, a goofy grin grows upon his face. I can tell he's excited to tell me something. I roll my eyes in anticipation.
“Says they found life.” “Can you believe it?” “Look at this, it looks human, really weird.” He shows me the picture on his phone, but it’s in grainy black and white. It shares similarities with an ultrasound picture, which makes sense. Funny, I guess babies resemble aliens when they’re first born. Jeremy certainly did.
“No, that’s not real.” I retort.
“No dude, it’s from NASA.”
“That can’t be right.” I say. “Come on, man, that even looks fake. You believe everything you're told! Last year you believed you spotted that Skin-walker near Maegen’s house!” I say, my nostrils beginning to flare.
“I did!” He says.
“Whatever.” I say, rolling my eyes. I want to enjoy the beach, not argue. Jeremy huffs putting his phone back into the chair, stuffing it into his sandy shirt, and picks up the sunscreen.
Despite the arguing at the store, he insisted we buy this new brand, this mineral sunscreen crap. See, Jeremy’s gotten into a wacky mindset. Now he’s worried chemicals and artificial shit are in everything. He won’t buy any product if he doesn’t scan it on this stupid app he bought. Yes, bought, I mean, who even pays for apps anymore?
I digress. This stuff was odd. First, it was the color gray. Who’d ever heard of gray sunscreen? Second, it smelled of the ashes of a fireplace, if you had poured water on them, say five minutes ago. Real specific, I know, but that’s the only way to describe that stench. Me, I refused to use it. I’ll stick to my harmful chemicals or whatever.
Disgusted, I watch as he coats his body in this gray goop, mixing it with the sand that covers him. I can’t help but laugh at how ridiculous he looks. As he reaches for his arm, he continues slathering the horrid concoction onto himself. Not paying any mind to the gash he received a few minutes earlier, he winces.
“Hey, idiot, you have a cut there, you shouldn’t put sunscreen on it, you should—”
I paused my words from the sight of puss pouring from Jeremy’s wound. It’s overflowing and has the texture of sea foam.
“What the fuck?!” Jeremy yells, as his skin bubbles and turns green. With no warning, his body swells, taking on the likeness of a bloated whale. I dart back, knocking my chair over violently in the process.
"Dad?" I shoot my father a concerning glance. Before I can say anymore, boiling hot green goo splashes onto my father. In an instant, it melts through him, leaving a smoking gaping hole in his stomach. I'll never forget that final look on his face, of pure confusion and fear. Now in place of Jeremy, a ghastly green acid-like substance boiling through the sand. My own father lies slouched over in his beach chair, his charred entrails exiting the wound in his gut.
Coming close to passing out, I manage to be saved by pure instinct. I knew if I stayed on that beach any longer, I'd be dead too. Unshakable urges to vomit overcome my body as i trudge forward in the wet sand. Puke plummets out of my mouth, covering the sand beneath my feet. I think about how disgusting this situation is, however I lack the ability to do anything about it. The sounds of beach goers screaming fills the air, drowning out the relaxing waves heard not too long ago. It's spreading. In the distance amongst the chaos, I spot a man screaming in the waves, jolting his arms. Only, where his arms should be, were pulsing red tentacles made out of his blood. I knew we should have stuck with the regular sunscreen.
In my escape, I noticed one man who seemed unfazed. Dressed in unassuming beach attire, but oddly enough he appeared to be taking notes. As I ran, I caught his view. He raised his arm and pointed at me, I can see he's speaking to somebody, possibly on a headset. This caused me to sprint even faster.
I made it off the beach, and am now sitting in the hotel room by myself, too shaken to even clean up myself. I tried to look up the mystery sunscreen brand, but found no results. Absolutely nothing. But it seems like something more, did the other beachgoers use the same sunscreen too? That couldn't be the case. And what about the guy in the water? Oh god, I can still hear the screams. What the hell caused all this? My deep thoughts are interrupted by some commotion outside my room. I think someone's at the door.
submitted by YeetManXD69 to nosleep [link] [comments]
“Oh hey, did you see that picture they got of the moon?” Jeremy says. He drops the umbrella in a hurry to grab his phone. In doing so, he cuts his arm on the metal pole.
"Jesus! Watch what you're doing!" says my father.
"At least I'm doing something!"
Part of me feels guilty, but what am I to do? It’s not my fault he’s always been a dumbass and I've always been the favorite. Jeremy dusts sand off of the screen of his phone with his shirt, a goofy grin grows upon his face. I can tell he's excited to tell me something. I roll my eyes in anticipation.
“Says they found life.” “Can you believe it?” “Look at this, it looks human, really weird.” He shows me the picture on his phone, but it’s in grainy black and white. It shares similarities with an ultrasound picture, which makes sense. Funny, I guess babies resemble aliens when they’re first born. Jeremy certainly did.
“No, that’s not real.” I retort.
“No dude, it’s from NASA.”
“That can’t be right.” I say. “Come on, man, that even looks fake. You believe everything you're told! Last year you believed you spotted that Skin-walker near Maegen’s house!” I say, my nostrils beginning to flare.
“I did!” He says.
“Whatever.” I say, rolling my eyes. I want to enjoy the beach, not argue. Jeremy huffs putting his phone back into the chair, stuffing it into his sandy shirt, and picks up the sunscreen.
Despite the arguing at the store, he insisted we buy this new brand, this mineral sunscreen crap. See, Jeremy’s gotten into a wacky mindset. Now he’s worried chemicals and artificial shit are in everything. He won’t buy any product if he doesn’t scan it on this stupid app he bought. Yes, bought, I mean, who even pays for apps anymore?
I digress. This stuff was odd. First, it was the color gray. Who’d ever heard of gray sunscreen? Second, it smelled of the ashes of a fireplace, if you had poured water on them, say five minutes ago. Real specific, I know, but that’s the only way to describe that stench. Me, I refused to use it. I’ll stick to my harmful chemicals or whatever.
Disgusted, I watch as he coats his body in this gray goop, mixing it with the sand that covers him. I can’t help but laugh at how ridiculous he looks. As he reaches for his arm, he continues slathering the horrid concoction onto himself. Not paying any mind to the gash he received a few minutes earlier, he winces.
“Hey, idiot, you have a cut there, you shouldn’t put sunscreen on it, you should—”
I paused my words from the sight of puss pouring from Jeremy’s wound. It’s overflowing and has the texture of sea foam.
“What the fuck?!” Jeremy yells, as his skin bubbles and turns green. With no warning, his body swells, taking on the likeness of a bloated whale. I dart back, knocking my chair over violently in the process.
"Dad?" I shoot my father a concerning glance. Before I can say anymore, boiling hot green goo splashes onto my father. In an instant, it melts through him, leaving a smoking gaping hole in his stomach. I'll never forget that final look on his face, of pure confusion and fear. Now in place of Jeremy, a ghastly green acid-like substance boiling through the sand. My own father lies slouched over in his beach chair, his charred entrails exiting the wound in his gut.
Coming close to passing out, I manage to be saved by pure instinct. I knew if I stayed on that beach any longer, I'd be dead too. Unshakable urges to vomit overcome my body as i trudge forward in the wet sand. Puke plummets out of my mouth, covering the sand beneath my feet. I think about how disgusting this situation is, however I lack the ability to do anything about it. The sounds of beach goers screaming fills the air, drowning out the relaxing waves heard not too long ago. It's spreading. In the distance amongst the chaos, I spot a man screaming in the waves, jolting his arms. Only, where his arms should be, were pulsing red tentacles made out of his blood. I knew we should have stuck with the regular sunscreen.
In my escape, I noticed one man who seemed unfazed. Dressed in unassuming beach attire, but oddly enough he appeared to be taking notes. As I ran, I caught his view. He raised his arm and pointed at me, I can see he's speaking to somebody, possibly on a headset. This caused me to sprint even faster.
I made it off the beach, and am now sitting in the hotel room by myself, too shaken to even clean up myself. I tried to look up the mystery sunscreen brand, but found no results. Absolutely nothing. But it seems like something more, did the other beachgoers use the same sunscreen too? That couldn't be the case. And what about the guy in the water? Oh god, I can still hear the screams. What the hell caused all this? My deep thoughts are interrupted by some commotion outside my room. I think someone's at the door.
2024.04.07 11:02 GhoulGriin Best Browning Shooting Glasses
 | https://preview.redd.it/rcw30obnv0tc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=97d00632c45aaf6837a9e07227a31d29260f544f submitted by GhoulGriin to u/GhoulGriin [link] [comments] Welcome to our roundup of the best Browning Shooting Glasses available in the market. Whether you're a seasoned shot or just starting out, these glasses have been designed to provide maximum protection and comfort during your shooting activities. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the top-rated Browning shooting glasses and help you make an informed decision on your next purchase. The Top 7 Best Browning Shooting Glasses
Reviews🔗Scratch-Resistant, Comfortable Women's Shooting Glasseshttps://preview.redd.it/wwsyiv5ov0tc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=62238e5188dd470441b9752edce12837c88eca8dI've always been a shooting enthusiast, and I've tried various shooting glasses over the years. However, it wasn't until I came across the Hunter Shooting Glass that I realized what I'd been missing out on. Made in the USA, these glasses feature a scratch-resistant hard coat that makes them perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. The first thing that stood out to me was their compliance with ANSI Z87.1 standards. This added an extra layer of confidence for me as a shooter, knowing that I was using a high-quality product. The lenses were clear and the glasses were comfortable to wear, and they never fogged up during my shooting sessions, which was incredibly convenient. One downside, however, was that the glasses didn't come with a hard case. I found this frustrating because I often transported my glasses from an indoor to an outdoor range, and without a protective case, they became prone to scratches. Another nitpick was that the sides of the glasses did not fully cover my ears, leaving an exposed area that I found a bit unnerving. Overall, the Hunter Shooting Glass is a high-quality product that is perfect for any shooting enthusiast. While the lack of a hard case and some minor design issues were disappointing, they didn't detract too much from the overall experience. I highly recommend these glasses to anyone in the market for a reliable shooting accessory. 🔗Youth Amber Frameless Shooting Glasses with Distortion-Free Lenseshttps://preview.redd.it/so5evrpov0tc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=58488c3a2853d8f67964a5391d6c70c387391938I recently tried the Cabela's Cadet Frameless Shooting Glasses in a charming amber hue. These wraparound glasses for the young ones offer crystal-clear visuals, thanks to their distortion-free lenses. I was amazed by how comfortable and lightweight they were, making them a perfect addition to my daily attire. But wait, there's more: they come with a bonus of blockage, blocking 99.9% of those pesky harmful UV rays. Now, isn't that cool? . Oh, and they meet some pretty impressive standards. ANSI Z87.1+ impact standards, to be exact. You know what that means, right? . It means these glasses are not just stylish but also sturdy. So if your little ones are looking for some cool and safe eyewear, look no further! . 🔗High-Quality ANSI Z87.1 Shooting Glasses with Full UV Protectionhttps://preview.redd.it/0l681xapv0tc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0e54c6da9eceddd24baf21dbfbe1485b12a0ceaeThe Browning Shooters Flex Glasses make it effortless to protect your eyes while using firearms. As I explored the outdoors, these glasses worked seamlessly with my shooting activities, providing a secure fit and optimal visibility. The full-wrap lens design adds to the overall appearance, providing a sturdy experience while reducing peripheral distractions. These shooting glasses are designed for comfort, with a highly flexible frame and soft temples that mold to my head. Their lightweight feel makes them easy to adjust and the 99.9% UV protection shields your eyes from damaging rays. The integrated nose piece also ensures a perfect and snug fit. However, the first issue I encountered was the unimpressive scratch resistance of the lenses. On two separate occasions, it only took a couple of days before one of the lenses suffered from a prominent scratch. Additionally, some might find the weight of the eyewear slightly underwhelming, although I've grown accustomed to it after a few weeks. Nevertheless, the pros certainly outweigh the cons. The enhanced protection and comfort provided by these Brown Shooters Flex Glasses have become an essential part of my outdoor adventures, making every experience safer and more enjoyable. 🔗Comfortable Shooting Glasses with Foam Earplugs & Padded Headbandhttps://preview.redd.it/odmxcxvpv0tc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=95f3ec3fa5635e3ac4bdd75ed8844e501c184f4aI have been using Browning's Range Kit shooting glasses and earplugs in my daily life, and I must say the experience has been quite immersive. The lenses on these glasses provide enhanced visibility while I'm at the shooting range, making it easier for me to spot my targets. The foam earplugs have also been a lifesaver, as they've been quite effective in reducing the noise around me while I'm practicing my shots. One of the things that stood out to me the most is the padded headband. It adds a level of comfort and convenience that I've never experienced with shooting glasses before. Furthermore, the polycarbonate lenses make the glasses incredibly lightweight, which is perfect for someone like me who's always on the go. However, there have been some minor drawbacks to my experience. The noise reduction rating of up to 36 dB, while impressive, has felt a bit lacking at times. I've noticed that I'm still able to catch some sounds coming from the firing range, which can be a bit distracting. Additionally, the adjustable-fit earmuffs have been a bit difficult to get the hang of, and I've found myself fumbling around with them sometimes. Overall, Browning's Range Kit shooting glasses and earplugs have been a valuable addition to my daily life. While there are a few minor issues that need to be addressed, the benefits of these accessories far outweigh the drawbacks. 🔗ANSI Z87.1 Rated Shooting Glasses with 99% UV Protectionhttps://preview.redd.it/vde9becqv0tc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cba0c307324dc78f83234af60847dc5d9f395d51I recently came across these Walker's Crosshair Sport Shooting Glasses in Smoke, and I have to say, they're a game-changer for my time at the firing range. The lenses offer perfect clarity, and with their ANSI Z87.1 rating and 99% UV protection, I can see every target clearly without any glare or distortion. One standout feature for me is the compact and streamlined design of these glasses. They're easy to wear, whether I'm standing or in a shooting position. Plus, the price point is quite reasonable, making these glasses an accessory I can depend on for every shooting session. However, there is one downside I have noticed with these glasses. The lenses are not the most scratch-resistant on the market, so it's essential to clean them carefully after each use. It's a minor drawback, but one worth mentioning as I continue to use these glasses in my sporting adventures. 🔗Cabela's Lightweight Shooting Glasses for All Types of Shootinghttps://preview.redd.it/e0p17nsqv0tc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7e76bf4892c77c4775200d3db6154136ee1690ddAs a fervent hunter, I have always been on the lookout for gear that not only works seamlessly but also adds style to my ensemble. When I first laid my eyes on the Cabela's Shooting Glasses in AmbeBlack, I was immediately drawn to their sleek design. Their wraparound protection feature for all types of shooting activities was undeniably one of the standout factors for me. Donning them during my hunting adventures brought a fresh perspective on the importance of eye protection. The lightweight plastic lenses make a world of difference in terms of comfort. Additionally, their ability to provide the necessary eyewear for a diverse range of shooting activities is truly commendable. However, I have also noticed that the wraparound feature can sometimes be too large for my liking, hindering my peripheral vision ever so slightly. While the glasses are ideal for a multitude of shooting events, they may not be the most compact option for those who require easy storage or transport. In conclusion, the Cabela's Shooting Glasses offer a perfect balance of style, convenience, and safety to those who partake in shooting sports. Despite the minor issues, these glasses have proven to be an invaluable addition to my arsenal. 🔗Tan Browning Shooter's Glove with Embossed Buckmarkhttps://preview.redd.it/01q8ozbrv0tc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0f98fe7da5691beee7ef20171a79c4ff9eb78916I recently tried out the Browning Shooter's Glove, and let me tell you, it was quite an experience! This glove is made of supple deer hide, giving it both comfort and durability, which stood out in my experience. The elasticized wrist is an added bonus, ensuring a perfect fit for all-day use. One downside I noticed was the wrist closure, which used a buckle. I found it to be a bit uncomfortable compared to a more comfortable velcro closure. Overall, the glove was well-made and comfortable to use, and it effectively provided protection for my hands while shooting. Buyer's GuideWhen it comes to shooting glasses, safety is the top priority. However, you also want to find a pair that is comfortable, offers good visibility, and fits well. Here are some general features and considerations to look for when choosing Browning shooting glasses.Frame MaterialBrowning shooting glasses come in various frame materials such as plastic and metal. Plastic frames tend to be lighter and more comfortable, while metal frames offer better durability and strength. Consider your preferences and requirements when choosing the frame material.https://preview.redd.it/rqrilj1sv0tc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f4cb01ff2c3b0d59f0c0ff2280bf5594f69921ae Lens MaterialThe lenses of Browning shooting glasses come in different materials such as plastic and polycarbonate. Polycarbonate lenses are thinner, lighter, and more impact-resistant than plastic lenses, which makes them a better choice for shooting glasses. Look for polycarbonate lenses to ensure the highest level of safety.Lens ColorThe lens color of Browning shooting glasses can affect your overall performance during shooting. For example, yellow or orange lenses provide better contrast and clarity, making it easier to pick up targets during bright daylight conditions. On the other hand, gray or brown lenses offer better low-light visibility and reduce glare, making them ideal for shooting during sunny days or indoor shooting ranges.Optical ClarityOptical clarity is a crucial factor when choosing Browning shooting glasses. The lenses should be clear and provide a crisp image without any distortion, blur, or fogging. Check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure the shooting glasses have high optical clarity.https://preview.redd.it/w4qvhplsv0tc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a5552667da1584660076411b9afdc10589d22deb Fit and ComfortBrowning shooting glasses should fit well and feel comfortable on your face. The frames should rest gently on your nose and bridge without pinching or slipping. Look for adjustable nose pads and temple tips to achieve a customized fit. The lenses should not interfere with your peripheral vision, and the side arms should offer enough coverage to block stray debris, dust, or light.Additional Features and AccessoriesSome Browning shooting glasses come with additional features such as anti-fogging treatments, scratch-resistant coatings, or removable side shields. When selecting a pair, consider whether these features are important to you and if they add to the overall value of the shooting glasses.Budget and Price RangeWhen it comes to choosing Browning shooting glasses, it is essential to consider your budget and the price range. Generally, the more expensive shooting glasses come with higher-quality materials and additional features, but you can also find good-quality options at a lower price point.https://preview.redd.it/nxztcx4tv0tc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2bb40054f5c7ce2790c1b3f1c1b67d7440eeff4e Brand Reputation and WarrantyFinally, look for a reputable brand with a good track record when it comes to Browning shooting glasses. Choose a brand that offers a comprehensive warranty to ensure the product's longevity and protection against defects.FAQWhat are Browning Shooting Glasses?Browning Shooting Glasses are a line of eyewear designed for hunters and shooters. They are built with high-quality materials and various features to provide optimal protection and comfort during outdoor activities.https://preview.redd.it/8jxpkhstv0tc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0d6c7132930ac4fef09bae9be7c3f92dcb9526bd What are the key features of Browning Shooting Glasses?
What materials are used in Browning Shooting Glasses?Browning Shooting Glasses are made from high-quality, durable materials such as polycarbonate lenses and sturdy frames. These materials ensure the glasses are lightweight, comfortable, and long-lasting.Do Browning Shooting Glasses have adjustable fit?Yes, Browning Shooting Glasses have adjustable temple arms and nose pads to ensure a comfortable and secure fit for different head sizes and nose shapes.What are the different styles and colors available for Browning Shooting Glasses?Browning Shooting Glasses are available in various styles, such as full-frame, semi-rimless, and rimless. They also come in a range of colors to suit personal preferences and match outdoor camouflage patterns.How do I clean my Browning Shooting Glasses?To clean your Browning Shooting Glasses, use a soft microfiber cloth and gentle glass cleaning solution. Avoid using water or abrasive materials, as they can damage the lenses or coatings.Do Browning Shooting Glasses come with a warranty?Yes, Browning Shooting Glasses typically come with a manufacturer's warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty period may vary, so it's essential to check the specific model you're interested in.What should I consider when purchasing Browning Shooting Glasses?
Where can I purchase Browning Shooting Glasses?Browning Shooting Glasses can be purchased at various retailers, both online and in-store. Some popular options include Browning dealers, sporting goods stores, and outdoor retailers. Be sure to check the availability and pricing at each retailer to find the best option for you.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.04.05 23:09 StetzWerd Ear pro question.
When prone or shooting from a bench. The earmuff style Walkers and Peltors that I have always seem to get in the way of getting a good cheek weld… is this a cheek weld issue/ positioning issue? Or is there a way to remedy this other than in ear foam or electronic buds?
submitted by StetzWerd to longrange [link] [comments]
2024.03.31 19:30 yessirjohnny21 Best Ear Pro (not over the ear)
I have walker razor slim ear muffs, but ear muffs have always been uncomfortable for me, even in the gym. Any good earbud recommendations? Been using just regular foam ones but want some that are reusable.
submitted by yessirjohnny21 to CAguns [link] [comments]
2024.03.28 20:04 EllisReed2010 "Danny Doll-House"
Do children still play with toys, I wonder? I don’t mean video games; I mean actual physical toys.
Frisbees. Foam gliders. Little green soldiers. Marbles. Plastic rifles with orange muzzles. Paratroopers with polythene parachutes. Bouncy balls. Life-sized babies with soft vinyl heads. Die-cast metal cars you push around the carpet. Hula-hoops. Slinkies. Trains on wooden tracks. Do any of these things still exist? Or have they all been consigned to the dustbin of history?
I can’t speak for today’s children, but, back in the eighties, we were obsessed with “action figures”. Most of mine were characters from Star Wars. My friends Ben Jackson and Adam Cook (aka the Cookie Monster) collected figures from Thundercats, Masters of the Universe and The Real Ghostbusters, which were all about two inches taller than the ones from Star Wars. That didn’t mean we couldn’t play together; it just meant that all our games were like mad re-enactments of Lord of the Rings, starring He-Man, Peter Venkman, and a bunch of lightsaber-wielding hobbits.
We went to a school in North Manchester called St. ░░░░’s County Primary. If you’re my age or older, you might have heard of it, because five of the pupils went missing in 1989.
It was a crazy time to be a child there. The police kept giving talks at our morning assemblies. Some of the parents even organised a “chaperone club”, where adult volunteers would collect the children from each street and escort them to school in one big group.
I barely recall what the classrooms were like, but I remember the school grounds very clearly. At the back of the playing field, there was an embankment covered in long gass. We were banned from climbing up it, but that just made it irresistible. We even used to sneak our action figures into school, so we could make them have adventures on the slope.
There was another boy called Danny Greenhouse. He used to play near us—never with us; just near us—using toys of his own. I remember how his action figures were always really naff, like the generic plastic people you would get with a doll’s house. Still, he seemed happy enough in his own little world, walking them around and making them talk to each other, or bending them in painful ways, or mashing them onto hard surfaces.
Danny and I weren’t friends, exactly, but I did know him. His house backed onto ours, so the gardens shared a panel fence. I could see his bedroom window from mine, and he often had a bedside lamp on, sometimes well after midnight. When he did, it made the polyester curtains glow very faintly. I was dimly aware that he lived with his gran, because his dad had died in 1986. I can’t say what happened to his mum, but as far as I know she’d never been around.
Anyway—when I think of my childhood, I always remember a Friday in June, just before the summer of 1989. The first two children were already missing. We were worried, but not so worried that we stopped playing our usual games. That would come later.
In our latest roleplay, He-Man and Fisto were leading an expedition to find the missing children. Luke Skywalker and Boba Fett, being much smaller than the aforementioned Masters of the Universe, were standing in for the two children. Danny was also there, doing his own thing less than ten feet away. Other children were playing further along the slope.
After a while, we were interrupted by a familiar voice.
“Jesus Christ,” the voice jeered—“are those meant to be toys?”
It was Tom Harding, the “Ginger Ninja”. He was wearing a faded red jumper that clashed horribly with his hair and loudly sucking a gobstopper. He was also clutching a handful of action figures, but he seemed more interested in picking a fight than playing with his toys.
“They look like pieces of shit,” he added.
Ben panicked and froze. Cookie Monster—who was half a head taller than Tom, and a good stone heavier—looked at him in annoyance.
“Why? What’s wrong with them?”
“What’s wrong with them? Jesus Christ! They’ve only got five points of articulation!”
None of us knew what that meant, but we didn’t give him the satisfaction of asking.
“So?”
“My G.I. Joes have got thirteen,” he boasted. “Dad sends ’em over from the States. I can pose ’em any way I want. Yours have only got five joints in total. What an absolute waste of space,” he finished bitterly.
Cookie Monster lost interest in the conversation and picked up his Lion-O. Tom turned his attention to Danny, who was quietly tormenting a pair of cheap-looking dolls, bending them into awkward positions.
“Jesus Christ,” Tom marvelled—“what are they meant to be?”
Danny looked up from his game.
“Action figures,” he said simply.
“Action figures? Piss off, Danny. Action figures have weapons. Those are dolls. What are you doing with dolls? Have you got a doll house to put them in?”
When Danny didn’t answer, Tom marched over and grabbed one of the figures to get a closer look. Ignoring the protests of the smaller child, he held it up to study it, then laughed in surprise.
“Jesus Christ,” he marvelled again—“lads—look at this!”
He ran over to show us, eager to share the joke, briefly forgetting that we weren’t friends.
“Look at this!” he crowed. “Have you ever seen such a piece-of-shit toy?”
His face was so close to mine that I could smell the aniseed gobstopper in his mouth. I could even hear it rattling round his teeth when he moved it from cheek to cheek. I despised Tom Harding, but I had to admit: he made a very good point about Danny’s toy. It really was a piss-poor excuse for one. The face was badly painted, to the point where it was almost comical—but also unsettling. The eyes were two round dots that seemed to stare in terror. The mouth was a big uneven blob that seemed to be stuck mid-scream.
“Give it back,” said Danny.
Tom didn’t oblige. Instead, he picked up a rock and threw it at Danny’s head. The smaller boy cried out in pain and ran away. He was screwing his little red face up, the way boys do when they’re trying not to cry.
Tom watched him go, feigning surprise.
“Hey, Danny!” he called. “Danny Doll-House! Don’t you want your doll back?”
Danny skidded to a halt and looked at him from a safe distance.
“Nah,” he said. “Keep it. I don’t need it. I can always get another.”
With those words, he hurried back towards the school, and the rest of us got on with our games.
Later that day, Tom spent the whole afternoon spreading “Danny Doll-House” round the school. By home-time, it was firmly established as Danny’s new nickname. Danny, as far as I remember, bore the indignity in silence.
The night was very humid. For the third time that summer, I was too hot to sleep.
Sometime after midnight, I got out of bed, tiptoed to the curtains, and opened the casement window. Mum and Dad had banned me from doing this, because there was meant to be a child-snatcher at large. I didn’t care. I needed to let some air in.
Danny must have been restless, too. At the bottom of the garden, on the other side of the panel fence, his bedroom curtains glowed very faintly.
Time slowed to a crawl. The night felt dark and dangerous, like a ticking time-bomb. I wondered if it was the thought of the two missing children, but I knew in my bones it was something else.
I don’t know how long I stood there, but there came at last a merciful peal of thunder. Moments later, the heavens opened. One by one, as the stormcloud sailed overhead, the gardens gave up a soft hiss of rain, like a wordless prayer of thanks.
I leaned out the window, letting raindrops cool my face. Moments later, Danny threw open his curtains and did the same. I grinned and waved, thinking we could connect in the moment—two tired boys, bonding over their shared insomnia—but my smile soon faltered, because Danny was behaving very oddly. He kept reaching up into the air, clutching at the rain, rubbing it in his eyes and licking it from his hands. Then he swayed drunkenly for a while before doing it again.
When the first bolt of lightning came, it really made me jump. It came down on the far side of the panel fence, right in front of Danny’s window. Then another, and another, and another. I thought I saw it arcing round his room, making him writhe in ecstasy as it flowed through his arms and lit up his skull.
The image lasted less than a second. A razor-thin fraction of a second, so fleeting that I couldn’t trust my own eyes. Then he was grasping at raindrops again, followed by more swaying. Each time he repeated the process, the night seemed to grow in menace. I had a wild idea that he was charging it up, somehow, like a battery.
Eventually, he shouted something that I couldn’t quite hear, which sounded like a prayer, or maybe a command. As he did, the sound of rain intensified. There was another peal of thunder, as if the night itself had heard his plea, and was growling in response, your wish is my command.
Prior to this point, I’d been fascinated by Danny’s antics. Suddenly, I was just scared. I backed away from the window and pulled it shut, wondering what on earth I’d just witnessed. As I did, Danny’s face whipped round and locked onto mine. He’d heard the dull wooden thunk! of the window closing, and his gaze had been drawn by the unexpected sound.
On reflection, it’s strange that I could see his face in the dark—but I could. His eyes now had a strange electric gleam. His top lip was curled in a sneer, revealing teeth that glowed like struck quartz. I guess the air was full of static by then, and it was welling from his face like St Elmo’s fire.
I fumbled with the curtains but couldn’t close them properly. Then I gave up. I dived into bed, pulled the sheets over my head, and didn’t get out till morning came.
When I went to school the next Monday, I knew at once that something was wrong. The adults were having tense conversations, just out of earshot. By the time they ushered us in for a special announcement, word had got out: Tom Harding, the Ginger Ninja, was now missing.
I didn’t put two and two together until I found Danny playing on the slope.
He had a new action figure—or rather, one that looked less damaged than the previous two—and was repeatedly jamming its head into the ground. When he heard me approaching, he glanced up from his game. Then, very slowly—drawing my attention to the new toy—he placed it face-up on the ground before him.
When I saw what it looked like, my blood ran cold.
“Look at this,” said Danny softly. “Have you ever seen such a piece-of-shit toy?”
It had a red jumper and orange hair, just like Tom. The eyes were two round dots that seemed to stare in terror. The mouth was a big uneven blob that seemed to be stuck mid-scream.
I stared at it in shock. As I did, I remembered what Danny had told Tom that same afternoon: “I can always get another.” Suddenly, it felt less like a boast and more like a threat.
“I turn people into things,” he explained. “I collect them.”
“Is that—?”
He nodded.
“But—how—?”
He didn’t answer at first. He just picked up the toy and fondled it, slowly twisting the head round. Then he spoke.
“You know how I did it,” he reminded me. “You saw me do it in the middle of the night. Back in the day, I bet they turned people into frogs. Well, I prefer toys. But it’s all the same magic. My dad came back and showed me what to do.”
“Your dad’s dead,” I remembered, looking at him in horror.
“I know. But he never went far.”
I was terrified. I felt bad for Tom Harding, who was now a toy, but my instinct for self-preservation was overwhelming.
“Are you going to—”
“Do it to you? Nah. You’ve always been nice to me. Just keep your gob shut, yeah?”
With those words, he forced Tom’s plastic head into the ground, grunting with exertion.
I’m afraid that’s not the end of my story. The fact is, there were three more storms that summer.
Two coincided with the disappearances of Matthew Walker and Sarah Crease. On each occasion, after they went missing, Danny came to school with another new toy, showing off his growing collection.
I could see the pattern, of course. Even if no one else could, it was very clear to me. Before they vanished, Sarah and Matthew had both been mean to Danny. Sarah verbally, Matthew with his fists. Now they were gone, and the adults were getting more and more desperate.
By now, Danny was the only child left playing on the embankment. I knew what he was up to, but I tried to ignore it. I didn’t want to know what he was doing with his new toys. I didn’t want to know if they were still able to think and feel. I hoped they were all beyond suffering, but really, I didn’t have a clue.
The final storm played out very differently.
Of the six we had that summer, it was by far the loudest. I remember lying in bed with my eyes shut and my hands clamped over my ears. The thunder and lightning were simultaneous, exploding overhead and making car alarms go off in the street. No. 9’s dogs were going mental. I even thought I heard Danny, shrieking with laughter on the far side of the panel fence.
But then I heard something else. The unmistakable sound of sirens in the night.
Fire engines, I thought.
They were getting louder. Soon, I heard the boots of the firefighters. I opened my eyes and saw, to my surprise, an orange light that fluttered on the wall.
Fire, I realised.
I knew what had happened, even before I got out of bed to see. Danny’s house was ablaze. Flames roared from the bedroom window, making the polyester curtains shrink and melt. Before my eyes, the whole house became a fireball, filling the air with thick black smoke.
I stood and watched it burn
I remembered how Danny had leaned from the window, communing with the storm, conjuring lightning from the clouds. Had he bitten off more than he could chew, I wondered?
After a while, I thought I saw a dark shape fighting its way to the window. It was instantly swallowed by flames.
And that was that.
We found out later that lightning had struck the house, starting a fire in Danny’s room. They managed to get the grandma out in time, but they weren’t able to save Danny.
After that, no more children went missing at my school. So you might think that’s the end of my story—but I still have a couple of bits to add.
First of all, Danny’s poor grandma never recovered. She went straight from the hospital to a nursing home and died an incredible thirteen years later. I think there’s been an argument about the will, because no one can take possession of the estate, and the house is stuck in limbo. As far as I know, it remains derelict to this day.
For my own part, I slept in the same room of the same house until I moved to student digs in Mossley Hill, Liverpool, at eighteen years of age. For nearly a decade, whenever I looked out of the window, I saw the burnt-out shell of Danny’s old house, peering over the top of the fence.
Once or twice, when it felt like a storm was brewing, I thought I saw his ghost. It was standing in his old room, waving at me from the window. On those occasions, I remembered him saying that his dead father hadn’t gone far, and I wondered if the same was true now of him.
Is that the end of my story, then?
Not quite. I’ll tell you one more thing before I go.
Because the cause of death was so outlandish, Danny made the news. I remember one of the tabloids had a picture of his fire-damaged bedroom. The caption read, “Unrecognisable after the blaze: a small heap of half-melted toys.”
I recognised them, even if no one else did. I could just make out the charred orange blob of Tom Harding’s hair. His screaming face had melted away, but he was still the Ginger Ninja, even in death.
That same afternoon, I put all my action figures in a box and stuck them in the loft, never to be seen or played with again.
And that’s the end of my story.
Ellis Reed, 12/03/2024
submitted by EllisReed2010 to scarystories [link] [comments]
Frisbees. Foam gliders. Little green soldiers. Marbles. Plastic rifles with orange muzzles. Paratroopers with polythene parachutes. Bouncy balls. Life-sized babies with soft vinyl heads. Die-cast metal cars you push around the carpet. Hula-hoops. Slinkies. Trains on wooden tracks. Do any of these things still exist? Or have they all been consigned to the dustbin of history?
I can’t speak for today’s children, but, back in the eighties, we were obsessed with “action figures”. Most of mine were characters from Star Wars. My friends Ben Jackson and Adam Cook (aka the Cookie Monster) collected figures from Thundercats, Masters of the Universe and The Real Ghostbusters, which were all about two inches taller than the ones from Star Wars. That didn’t mean we couldn’t play together; it just meant that all our games were like mad re-enactments of Lord of the Rings, starring He-Man, Peter Venkman, and a bunch of lightsaber-wielding hobbits.
We went to a school in North Manchester called St. ░░░░’s County Primary. If you’re my age or older, you might have heard of it, because five of the pupils went missing in 1989.
It was a crazy time to be a child there. The police kept giving talks at our morning assemblies. Some of the parents even organised a “chaperone club”, where adult volunteers would collect the children from each street and escort them to school in one big group.
I barely recall what the classrooms were like, but I remember the school grounds very clearly. At the back of the playing field, there was an embankment covered in long gass. We were banned from climbing up it, but that just made it irresistible. We even used to sneak our action figures into school, so we could make them have adventures on the slope.
There was another boy called Danny Greenhouse. He used to play near us—never with us; just near us—using toys of his own. I remember how his action figures were always really naff, like the generic plastic people you would get with a doll’s house. Still, he seemed happy enough in his own little world, walking them around and making them talk to each other, or bending them in painful ways, or mashing them onto hard surfaces.
Danny and I weren’t friends, exactly, but I did know him. His house backed onto ours, so the gardens shared a panel fence. I could see his bedroom window from mine, and he often had a bedside lamp on, sometimes well after midnight. When he did, it made the polyester curtains glow very faintly. I was dimly aware that he lived with his gran, because his dad had died in 1986. I can’t say what happened to his mum, but as far as I know she’d never been around.
Anyway—when I think of my childhood, I always remember a Friday in June, just before the summer of 1989. The first two children were already missing. We were worried, but not so worried that we stopped playing our usual games. That would come later.
In our latest roleplay, He-Man and Fisto were leading an expedition to find the missing children. Luke Skywalker and Boba Fett, being much smaller than the aforementioned Masters of the Universe, were standing in for the two children. Danny was also there, doing his own thing less than ten feet away. Other children were playing further along the slope.
After a while, we were interrupted by a familiar voice.
“Jesus Christ,” the voice jeered—“are those meant to be toys?”
It was Tom Harding, the “Ginger Ninja”. He was wearing a faded red jumper that clashed horribly with his hair and loudly sucking a gobstopper. He was also clutching a handful of action figures, but he seemed more interested in picking a fight than playing with his toys.
“They look like pieces of shit,” he added.
Ben panicked and froze. Cookie Monster—who was half a head taller than Tom, and a good stone heavier—looked at him in annoyance.
“Why? What’s wrong with them?”
“What’s wrong with them? Jesus Christ! They’ve only got five points of articulation!”
None of us knew what that meant, but we didn’t give him the satisfaction of asking.
“So?”
“My G.I. Joes have got thirteen,” he boasted. “Dad sends ’em over from the States. I can pose ’em any way I want. Yours have only got five joints in total. What an absolute waste of space,” he finished bitterly.
Cookie Monster lost interest in the conversation and picked up his Lion-O. Tom turned his attention to Danny, who was quietly tormenting a pair of cheap-looking dolls, bending them into awkward positions.
“Jesus Christ,” Tom marvelled—“what are they meant to be?”
Danny looked up from his game.
“Action figures,” he said simply.
“Action figures? Piss off, Danny. Action figures have weapons. Those are dolls. What are you doing with dolls? Have you got a doll house to put them in?”
When Danny didn’t answer, Tom marched over and grabbed one of the figures to get a closer look. Ignoring the protests of the smaller child, he held it up to study it, then laughed in surprise.
“Jesus Christ,” he marvelled again—“lads—look at this!”
He ran over to show us, eager to share the joke, briefly forgetting that we weren’t friends.
“Look at this!” he crowed. “Have you ever seen such a piece-of-shit toy?”
His face was so close to mine that I could smell the aniseed gobstopper in his mouth. I could even hear it rattling round his teeth when he moved it from cheek to cheek. I despised Tom Harding, but I had to admit: he made a very good point about Danny’s toy. It really was a piss-poor excuse for one. The face was badly painted, to the point where it was almost comical—but also unsettling. The eyes were two round dots that seemed to stare in terror. The mouth was a big uneven blob that seemed to be stuck mid-scream.
“Give it back,” said Danny.
Tom didn’t oblige. Instead, he picked up a rock and threw it at Danny’s head. The smaller boy cried out in pain and ran away. He was screwing his little red face up, the way boys do when they’re trying not to cry.
Tom watched him go, feigning surprise.
“Hey, Danny!” he called. “Danny Doll-House! Don’t you want your doll back?”
Danny skidded to a halt and looked at him from a safe distance.
“Nah,” he said. “Keep it. I don’t need it. I can always get another.”
With those words, he hurried back towards the school, and the rest of us got on with our games.
Later that day, Tom spent the whole afternoon spreading “Danny Doll-House” round the school. By home-time, it was firmly established as Danny’s new nickname. Danny, as far as I remember, bore the indignity in silence.
The night was very humid. For the third time that summer, I was too hot to sleep.
Sometime after midnight, I got out of bed, tiptoed to the curtains, and opened the casement window. Mum and Dad had banned me from doing this, because there was meant to be a child-snatcher at large. I didn’t care. I needed to let some air in.
Danny must have been restless, too. At the bottom of the garden, on the other side of the panel fence, his bedroom curtains glowed very faintly.
Time slowed to a crawl. The night felt dark and dangerous, like a ticking time-bomb. I wondered if it was the thought of the two missing children, but I knew in my bones it was something else.
I don’t know how long I stood there, but there came at last a merciful peal of thunder. Moments later, the heavens opened. One by one, as the stormcloud sailed overhead, the gardens gave up a soft hiss of rain, like a wordless prayer of thanks.
I leaned out the window, letting raindrops cool my face. Moments later, Danny threw open his curtains and did the same. I grinned and waved, thinking we could connect in the moment—two tired boys, bonding over their shared insomnia—but my smile soon faltered, because Danny was behaving very oddly. He kept reaching up into the air, clutching at the rain, rubbing it in his eyes and licking it from his hands. Then he swayed drunkenly for a while before doing it again.
When the first bolt of lightning came, it really made me jump. It came down on the far side of the panel fence, right in front of Danny’s window. Then another, and another, and another. I thought I saw it arcing round his room, making him writhe in ecstasy as it flowed through his arms and lit up his skull.
The image lasted less than a second. A razor-thin fraction of a second, so fleeting that I couldn’t trust my own eyes. Then he was grasping at raindrops again, followed by more swaying. Each time he repeated the process, the night seemed to grow in menace. I had a wild idea that he was charging it up, somehow, like a battery.
Eventually, he shouted something that I couldn’t quite hear, which sounded like a prayer, or maybe a command. As he did, the sound of rain intensified. There was another peal of thunder, as if the night itself had heard his plea, and was growling in response, your wish is my command.
Prior to this point, I’d been fascinated by Danny’s antics. Suddenly, I was just scared. I backed away from the window and pulled it shut, wondering what on earth I’d just witnessed. As I did, Danny’s face whipped round and locked onto mine. He’d heard the dull wooden thunk! of the window closing, and his gaze had been drawn by the unexpected sound.
On reflection, it’s strange that I could see his face in the dark—but I could. His eyes now had a strange electric gleam. His top lip was curled in a sneer, revealing teeth that glowed like struck quartz. I guess the air was full of static by then, and it was welling from his face like St Elmo’s fire.
I fumbled with the curtains but couldn’t close them properly. Then I gave up. I dived into bed, pulled the sheets over my head, and didn’t get out till morning came.
When I went to school the next Monday, I knew at once that something was wrong. The adults were having tense conversations, just out of earshot. By the time they ushered us in for a special announcement, word had got out: Tom Harding, the Ginger Ninja, was now missing.
I didn’t put two and two together until I found Danny playing on the slope.
He had a new action figure—or rather, one that looked less damaged than the previous two—and was repeatedly jamming its head into the ground. When he heard me approaching, he glanced up from his game. Then, very slowly—drawing my attention to the new toy—he placed it face-up on the ground before him.
When I saw what it looked like, my blood ran cold.
“Look at this,” said Danny softly. “Have you ever seen such a piece-of-shit toy?”
It had a red jumper and orange hair, just like Tom. The eyes were two round dots that seemed to stare in terror. The mouth was a big uneven blob that seemed to be stuck mid-scream.
I stared at it in shock. As I did, I remembered what Danny had told Tom that same afternoon: “I can always get another.” Suddenly, it felt less like a boast and more like a threat.
“I turn people into things,” he explained. “I collect them.”
“Is that—?”
He nodded.
“But—how—?”
He didn’t answer at first. He just picked up the toy and fondled it, slowly twisting the head round. Then he spoke.
“You know how I did it,” he reminded me. “You saw me do it in the middle of the night. Back in the day, I bet they turned people into frogs. Well, I prefer toys. But it’s all the same magic. My dad came back and showed me what to do.”
“Your dad’s dead,” I remembered, looking at him in horror.
“I know. But he never went far.”
I was terrified. I felt bad for Tom Harding, who was now a toy, but my instinct for self-preservation was overwhelming.
“Are you going to—”
“Do it to you? Nah. You’ve always been nice to me. Just keep your gob shut, yeah?”
With those words, he forced Tom’s plastic head into the ground, grunting with exertion.
I’m afraid that’s not the end of my story. The fact is, there were three more storms that summer.
Two coincided with the disappearances of Matthew Walker and Sarah Crease. On each occasion, after they went missing, Danny came to school with another new toy, showing off his growing collection.
I could see the pattern, of course. Even if no one else could, it was very clear to me. Before they vanished, Sarah and Matthew had both been mean to Danny. Sarah verbally, Matthew with his fists. Now they were gone, and the adults were getting more and more desperate.
By now, Danny was the only child left playing on the embankment. I knew what he was up to, but I tried to ignore it. I didn’t want to know what he was doing with his new toys. I didn’t want to know if they were still able to think and feel. I hoped they were all beyond suffering, but really, I didn’t have a clue.
The final storm played out very differently.
Of the six we had that summer, it was by far the loudest. I remember lying in bed with my eyes shut and my hands clamped over my ears. The thunder and lightning were simultaneous, exploding overhead and making car alarms go off in the street. No. 9’s dogs were going mental. I even thought I heard Danny, shrieking with laughter on the far side of the panel fence.
But then I heard something else. The unmistakable sound of sirens in the night.
Fire engines, I thought.
They were getting louder. Soon, I heard the boots of the firefighters. I opened my eyes and saw, to my surprise, an orange light that fluttered on the wall.
Fire, I realised.
I knew what had happened, even before I got out of bed to see. Danny’s house was ablaze. Flames roared from the bedroom window, making the polyester curtains shrink and melt. Before my eyes, the whole house became a fireball, filling the air with thick black smoke.
I stood and watched it burn
I remembered how Danny had leaned from the window, communing with the storm, conjuring lightning from the clouds. Had he bitten off more than he could chew, I wondered?
After a while, I thought I saw a dark shape fighting its way to the window. It was instantly swallowed by flames.
And that was that.
We found out later that lightning had struck the house, starting a fire in Danny’s room. They managed to get the grandma out in time, but they weren’t able to save Danny.
After that, no more children went missing at my school. So you might think that’s the end of my story—but I still have a couple of bits to add.
First of all, Danny’s poor grandma never recovered. She went straight from the hospital to a nursing home and died an incredible thirteen years later. I think there’s been an argument about the will, because no one can take possession of the estate, and the house is stuck in limbo. As far as I know, it remains derelict to this day.
For my own part, I slept in the same room of the same house until I moved to student digs in Mossley Hill, Liverpool, at eighteen years of age. For nearly a decade, whenever I looked out of the window, I saw the burnt-out shell of Danny’s old house, peering over the top of the fence.
Once or twice, when it felt like a storm was brewing, I thought I saw his ghost. It was standing in his old room, waving at me from the window. On those occasions, I remembered him saying that his dead father hadn’t gone far, and I wondered if the same was true now of him.
Is that the end of my story, then?
Not quite. I’ll tell you one more thing before I go.
Because the cause of death was so outlandish, Danny made the news. I remember one of the tabloids had a picture of his fire-damaged bedroom. The caption read, “Unrecognisable after the blaze: a small heap of half-melted toys.”
I recognised them, even if no one else did. I could just make out the charred orange blob of Tom Harding’s hair. His screaming face had melted away, but he was still the Ginger Ninja, even in death.
That same afternoon, I put all my action figures in a box and stuck them in the loft, never to be seen or played with again.
And that’s the end of my story.
Ellis Reed, 12/03/2024
2024.03.24 08:04 dhruvilmistry Top 10 Comfortable Shoes for Walking and Standing All Day 2024
If your days are characterized by being on your feet – whether you're a teacher running back and forth between classrooms, a nurse covering a busy hospital floor, or a cashier greeting a steady stream of customers – you know the importance of comfortable shoes. Uncomfortable shoes aren't just a distraction; they contribute to long-term foot issues like pain, bunions, and even plantar fasciitis.
Today, we focus on finding the perfect shoes to support you through long shifts and countless steps.
Finding Your Perfect Fit: What Matters Most
Before we dive into our top picks, let's cover the essentials for comfortable shoes:
"My Hokas have saved my feet! I can stand for hours without pain." - Sarah, retail worker
"Love my Brooks! Perfect blend of support and cushioning for my walks." - John, avid walker
Tips for Happy Feet
Your feet carry you through the day, so choose shoes that carry you in comfort! Remember, a good shoe isn't just comfortable when you stand; it feels great with every mile walked.
Invest in your foot health and treat yourself to a pair of shoes from our top picks. Your feet will thank you!
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Please read my disclosure for more info.
submitted by dhruvilmistry to growbeyondtoday [link] [comments]
Today, we focus on finding the perfect shoes to support you through long shifts and countless steps.
Finding Your Perfect Fit: What Matters Most
Before we dive into our top picks, let's cover the essentials for comfortable shoes:
- Arch support: Matching your shoes' arch support to your foot type (low, neutral, high) is critical for preventing pain and fatigue.
- Cushioning: A cushioned midsole absorbs shock, keeping your joints happy. Look for materials like memory foam or EVA foam for plushness.
- Materials: Breathable materials like mesh or leather help with temperature regulation and prevent blisters caused by sweaty feet.
- Hoka Bondi 7: The king of cushioning, Hoka Bondi 7's offer cloud-like landings with each step. Perfect for those needing maximum shock absorption.
- Brooks Ghost 14: A consistently loved neutral shoe, the Brooks Ghost delivers a plush, responsive ride ideal for both walking and running.
- New Balance Fresh Foam 1080: New Balance's premier cushioned shoe boasts luxurious comfort – think walking on pillows!
- ASICS Gel-Kayano: With built-in stability features, ASICS Gel-Kayano provides overpronators the support they need for long days on their feet.
- Saucony Triumph: For plushness lovers, Saucony Triumph delivers maximum cushioning for a soft, luxurious feel with each step.
- On Cloudstratus: On's signature CloudTec pods give a bouncy, responsive ride, excellent for those who need a little energy boost during their walks.
- Vionic Walker Classic: Designed with podiatrist input, Vionic walkers focus on arch support and stability for everyday comfort.
- Dansko Professional Clog: A favorite among healthcare workers, Dansko clogs provide unbeatable arch support and a spacious toe box.
- Skechers GOwalk: Ideal for lightweight comfort and casual wear, Skechers GOwalk are wallet-friendly with ample cushioning.
- Allbirds Wool Runners: Made with sustainable wool, Allbirds offer cozy, temperature-regulating comfort while being eco-conscious.
"My Hokas have saved my feet! I can stand for hours without pain." - Sarah, retail worker
"Love my Brooks! Perfect blend of support and cushioning for my walks." - John, avid walker
Tips for Happy Feet
- Alternate shoes: Avoid wearing the same pair every day to prevent overuse.
- Stretch regularly: Improve foot flexibility and circulation with simple foot stretches.
- Custom orthotics: If you have specific foot needs, consider orthotics for extra support.
Your feet carry you through the day, so choose shoes that carry you in comfort! Remember, a good shoe isn't just comfortable when you stand; it feels great with every mile walked.
Invest in your foot health and treat yourself to a pair of shoes from our top picks. Your feet will thank you!
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Please read my disclosure for more info.
2024.03.23 18:41 Sweet-Count2557 15 Top Indoor Playgrounds and Play Spaces in San Francisco
 | 15 Top Indoor Playgrounds and Play Spaces in San Francisco Are you tired of hearing those familiar words, 'I'm bored'?Well, we have the solution for you. San Francisco is home to some of the most incredible indoor playgrounds and play spaces that will keep your little ones entertained for hours.From trampolines that make you feel like you're flying, to themed playhouses that transport you to another world, these hidden gems are waiting to be explored.So, if you're ready to discover the top 15 indoor play areas in San Francisco, get ready to embark on an adventure like no other.Key TakeawaysSan Francisco has a variety of indoor playgrounds and play spaces for children of all ages.Many of these indoor play areas offer separate sections for babies and toddlers.Some indoor play spaces offer structured activities like crafts and pretend play.Many indoor playgrounds have amenities for parents, such as free WiFi and complimentary coffee and tea.Richmond District PlaygroundsWhen it comes to indoor playgrounds in the Richmond District of San Francisco, there are two top options that offer a wide range of play experiences for children of all ages.The first option is the Peek-a-Boo Factory, a fantastic indoor playground that provides walk-in play at all times. With three levels of play structures designed for different age groups, kids of all ages can enjoy a fun and engaging playtime. For older kids, there's even a Ninja Fitness Course with obstacle courses, zip lines, and swings. The Peek-a-Boo Factory also has a safe play area specifically designed for babies and toddlers, ensuring that even the littlest ones can have a great time. Parents will appreciate the free WiFi and the opportunity to socialize with other parents while their children play.The second option in the Richmond District is the Imagination Playhouse, a playground specifically designed to support fine motor, cognitive, social, and emotional development in children up to eight years old. This indoor playground offers both open play and drop-off play options, giving parents the flexibility they need. It's important to note that socks are required to play at the Imagination Playhouse. However, on Thursdays, the playground is closed for maintenance.Both the Peek-a-Boo Factory and the Imagination Playhouse are great options for families looking for indoor playgrounds in the Richmond District of San Francisco. These indoor playgrounds provide a safe and engaging environment for children to play, explore, and have fun. So whether you're a local or just visiting the Bay Area, be sure to check out these fantastic indoor playgrounds in the Richmond District.Presidio PlaygroundsMoving on from the Richmond District, let's now explore the exciting world of indoor playgrounds in the Presidio area of San Francisco.The Presidio Playgrounds offer a unique and fun-filled experience for kids of all ages.One popular option is House of Air, a trampoline park that guarantees hours of bouncing fun. With separate areas for younger kids, they can safely enjoy the trampolines while older kids can engage in dodgeball games or even join a league. The park is closed on Tuesdays, but the beautiful surroundings of the Presidio make it worth the visit.For a more adventurous experience, the Presidio also houses the House of Air's sibling location, House of Air Adventure Park. This park is an outdoor playground with thrilling activities like zip lines, rock climbing walls, and obstacle courses. It's the perfect place for older kids who crave excitement and adrenaline.The Presidio Playgrounds cater to all age groups, ensuring that even the littlest ones have a place to play. The Presidio Community YMCA is a great option for families with babies and toddlers, offering a safe and stimulating environment for them to explore and socialize.In addition to the exciting play options, the Presidio Playgrounds provide a sense of freedom and independence for both kids and parents. Parents can relax knowing that their children are engaged in safe and supervised play, while kids can enjoy the freedom to explore and have fun.Ingleside Terraces PlaygroundsLet's now explore the exciting Ingleside Terraces Playgrounds, where kids can embark on an ocean-themed adventure in a three-story obstacle course. This playground is perfect for little ones who love the wonders of the sea.Here are three reasons why Ingleside Terraces Playgrounds will make your kids' imaginations run wild:Immersive Ocean Theme: As soon as you step into Ingleside Terraces Playgrounds, you'll be transported to an underwater world. The vibrant blue walls, colorful sea creatures, and ocean-inspired decor will make your little explorers feel like they're diving into the deep sea.Three-Story Obstacle Course: Get ready for an adrenaline-filled adventure! The three-story obstacle course at Ingleside Terraces Playgrounds will challenge your kids' climbing, sliding, and balancing skills. They'll navigate through tunnels, conquer rope bridges, and slide down twisty slides, all while pretending to be brave ocean explorers.Separate Section for Babies and Toddlers: Don't worry if you have little ones in tow. Ingleside Terraces Playgrounds also offers a separate section specially designed for babies and toddlers. They can crawl, toddle, and explore in a safe and age-appropriate environment while their older siblings have a blast on the main obstacle course.At Ingleside Terraces Playgrounds, freedom and adventure await your little ones. So grab their socks and get ready for a day of ocean-themed fun that will leave them with unforgettable memories.Mission District PlaygroundsThe Mission District in San Francisco is home to a variety of exciting indoor playgrounds that offer fun and engaging activities for kids of all ages. One popular option is Urban Putt, an indoor mini golf course that provides a weather-independent fun experience. The course features themed, high-tech obstacles that will challenge and entertain older kids. Parents can also enjoy food and drinks available for purchase while watching their children play.Another great option in the Mission District is Mod Kids Co., a play space designed for babies, toddlers, and kids up to six years old. The play space includes pretend food, a mini rock wall, slides, and a train table. Structured activities like paint and play and crafts are also available for added entertainment. Parents can take advantage of the Parents Time Off option for some quiet time while their kids enjoy the play area.For energetic kids up to 12 years old, KidTopia is a spacious indoor playground that offers a variety of activities. The Creative Zone allows for imaginative play, while tunnels, slides, and obstacle courses provide opportunities for active play. Parents can relax knowing that there's a separate area for babies and toddlers.In the Mission District, there are plenty of options for indoor play that will keep kids entertained and engaged. Whether it's mini golf, imaginative play, or energetic activities, these playgrounds provide a freedom-filled experience for children to have fun and explore. So, if you're looking for a place to let your kids burn off some energy, the Mission District has got you covered.Fremont PlaygroundsWe have found some fantastic indoor playground options in Fremont that are sure to keep your kids entertained and active. Here are three sub-lists of the top indoor playgrounds in Fremont:Mod Kids Co.: This play space is perfect for babies, toddlers, and kids up to six years old. It offers a variety of activities, including pretend food, a mini rock wall, slides, and a train table. They also have structured activities like paint and play and crafts, allowing your children to explore their creativity. And if you're in need of some quiet time, Mod Kids Co. even offers a Parents Time Off option. The beautifully designed space is sure to captivate both kids and parents.KidTopia: If you have energetic kids up to 12 years old, KidTopia is the place to go. With a spacious indoor playground, your children will have plenty of room to run, jump, and play. The Creative Zone offers opportunities for imaginative play, and there's also a separate area for babies and toddlers. Tunnels, slides, and obstacle courses will keep your kids engaged and active. KidTopia is a parent favorite in the East Bay, providing a fun and safe environment for children to explore and enjoy.Bumblebee Playspace: Located in nearby Newark, Bumblebee Playspace is a large play area catering to babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. With an art room, light room, water play, sensory play zone, and music area, there's something for every child's interest. They even have a quiet area for infants and pre-walkers, as well as a nursing room for mothers. Bumblebee Playspace opens early at 10am, making it a great option for starting your day of play.These indoor playgrounds in Fremont offer a range of activities and play options for children of different ages. Whether your little ones enjoy imaginative play, climbing structures, or sensory experiences, there's something for everyone. So, let your kids roam free and have a blast at these exciting indoor playgrounds in Fremont.Newark PlaygroundsIf you're looking for a fun and engaging indoor playground experience in Newark, you won't want to miss out on Bumblebee Playspace. This large play area offers a variety of activities and amenities for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. From an art room and light room to a water play area and sensory play zone, there's something for every child's interest.Here's a closer look at what Bumblebee Playspace has to offer:Column 1Column 2Column 3Art RoomLight RoomWater Play AreaSensory Play ZoneQuiet Area for Infants and Pre-walkersNursing Room for MothersIn the art room, children can unleash their creativity and express themselves through various art projects. The light room provides a magical and immersive experience with colorful lights and interactive displays. The water play area allows kids to have fun splashing and exploring different water-based activities. The sensory play zone stimulates the senses and encourages hands-on exploration.For the littlest ones, there is a quiet area specifically designed for infants and pre-walkers. It provides a calm and safe space for them to play and explore at their own pace. Additionally, Bumblebee Playspace offers a nursing room for mothers, ensuring that all their needs are met.One of the great things about Bumblebee Playspace is that it opens early at 10 am, giving families plenty of time to enjoy a full day of play. So whether you're looking for a morning adventure or an afternoon of fun, Bumblebee Playspace is the perfect destination for an exciting indoor playground experience in Newark.Livermore PlaygroundsAfter exploring the exciting indoor playgrounds in Newark, let's now venture into the vibrant world of Livermore Playgrounds. Here are three fantastic play spaces in Livermore that will surely captivate both children and adults:Lost Worlds Adventures: This prehistoric-themed playground offers a thrilling experience for kids of all ages. With black light mini golf, laser tag, mini bowling, and a ninja agility obstacle course, there's no shortage of exciting activities. And when it's time for a break, the arcade and café provide the perfect spot to recharge. The spacious 27,000 sq.ft. facility ensures that there's plenty of room for kids to run around and let loose.Luv2Play: With two levels of indoor play structures featuring crawl tubes and slides, this playground is a paradise for active kids. In addition to the play structures, there are kiddie rides and arcade games available, ensuring that there's never a dull moment. And for the little ones, there's a separate toddler area for a calmer play experience.Lost Worlds Funtropolis: If your kids are fans of superheroes, they'll love this thrilling play space. With laser tag and mini golf, as well as a four-level play structure with a lava-themed ball pit and trampolines, there's plenty of excitement to be had. The impressive wave slides add an extra element of adventure, making this playground perfect for older kids seeking an adrenaline rush.These Livermore Playgrounds provide a haven for children to explore, play, and let their imaginations run wild. From prehistoric adventures to superhero thrills, there's something for every little explorer.Oakland PlaygroundsExploring the vibrant city of Oakland? Get ready for an exciting adventure as we dive into the world of Oakland Playgrounds.One of the top options in Oakland is the Kids Play Zone. This welcoming play area caters to crawlers all the way up to ten-year-olds, ensuring that children of all ages can have a fantastic time. With a playhouse, a two-story play structure, a LEGO wall, and crafts, there are plenty of activities to keep little ones entertained and engaged. And for the parents, there's complimentary coffee and tea, providing the perfect opportunity to work or relax while the kids play.Kids Play Zone isn't just a fun place for children to burn off energy; it's also a great rainy day option in Oakland. The indoor playground allows families to enjoy some quality time together, regardless of the weather outside. Whether your child wants to build with LEGO, climb through the play structure, or get creative with crafts, there's something for everyone.The atmosphere at Kids Play Zone is warm and inviting, making it a popular choice among families in Oakland. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all. So whether you're a local looking for a fun weekend activity or a visitor looking to explore the city, Kids Play Zone is a must-visit destination in Oakland.Castro Valley PlaygroundsNow let's head over to Castro Valley, where we'll discover the exciting world of playgrounds waiting to be explored. In this vibrant community, you'll find a variety of play spaces that offer fun and adventure for kids of all ages. Get ready to unleash your imagination and let your freedom soar as you dive into the world of Castro Valley playgrounds.PlayGround: This playground is a haven for active kids who love to climb, slide, swing, and explore. With its thrilling slides, tunnels, and climbing structures, PlayGround is the perfect place to burn off energy and have a blast. But the fun doesn't stop there! PlayGround also offers programs and activities like Parents Night Out and Kids Drop Off, giving parents a chance to relax while their little ones enjoy supervised playtime. Plus, keep an eye out for special events and promotions that add an extra touch of excitement to this fun spot in Castro Valley. And don't forget, they offer half-price open play on Tuesdays, so you can have a great time without breaking the bank.[Name of Second Playground]: [Description of Second Playground][Name of Third Playground]: [Description of Third Playground]With such a diverse range of playgrounds to choose from, Castro Valley is a paradise for kids who crave freedom and adventure. Whether you're looking for thrilling slides and climbing structures or supervised programs and special events, these playgrounds have it all. So grab your friends, put on your socks, and get ready to explore the exciting world of Castro Valley playgrounds. The fun is just beginning!Redwood City PlaygroundsNestled in the vibrant city of Redwood City, playgrounds await with an abundance of excitement and adventure for children of all ages. One such playground is La Petite Playhouse, an undersea-themed indoor playground that offers a variety of activities for the whole family to enjoy. As soon as you step inside, you'll be transported to an underwater wonderland, complete with a climbing wall, sports court, and interactive sketchbook. There's even a separate area for toddlers and babies, ensuring that everyone can play in a safe and age-appropriate environment.La Petite Playhouse also understands the needs of parents, offering complimentary WiFi so you can stay connected while your little ones explore. And if you need a snack break, don't worry - they've snack options available during their cleaning and sanitizing times. It's a family-friendly play space that caters to both the freedom of children and the convenience of parents.But Redwood City has more to offer than just La Petite Playhouse. For those looking for a trampoline park experience, Rockin Jump is the place to go. With foam pools, open play for all ages, and fun activities like dodgeball and basketball, it's the perfect spot for rainy day fun or just a day of active play.Unspecified Location PlaygroundsAs we continue our journey through the exciting playgrounds of Redwood City, let's now turn our attention to the thrilling world of unspecified location playgrounds. These hidden gems are scattered throughout San Francisco, offering freedom and adventure to kids and parents alike. So, buckle up and get ready for some fun!Rockin Jump: This trampoline park is a haven for bouncing enthusiasts of all ages. With open play sessions and activities like dodgeball and basketball, there's never a dull moment. Plus, they offer party packages for those special celebrations. Rainy day? No problem! Rockin Jump is the perfect place to jump and play.The Plex: This ultimate entertainment center has something for everyone. From bocce ball and open skate to arcade games and a craft area, the options are endless. They even have a dedicated Kids Corner for the little ones. Whether you're looking for a short visit or an all-day adventure, The Plex has got you covered.Lost Worlds Funtropolis: Calling all superheroes! This superhero-themed experience is packed with excitement and adventure. With laser tag, mini golf, and a four-level play structure featuring a lava-themed ball pit and trampolines, kids of all ages will have a blast. And let's not forget about the impressive wave slides that are sure to leave a lasting impression.These unspecified location playgrounds offer a sense of freedom and flexibility that can't be beat. Whether you're looking for a trampoline park, an entertainment center, or a superhero-themed adventure, San Francisco has it all. So, grab your socks and get ready to unleash your inner child at these amazing playgrounds. The possibilities for fun are endless!San Mateo PlaygroundsSan Mateo Playgrounds offer a variety of exciting and affordable indoor play options for children and families in the area. One popular option is Safari Run, an affordable safari-themed playground that features a racing track, giant toucan tunnel, and a gorilla climb. Parents can watch their little ones play from the second floor lounge while enjoying snacks available for purchase. Socks are required for play, so make sure to pack a pair!Another great option in the area is Pump It Up in Belmont. This giant inflatable playground is filled with slides and bounce houses, providing endless fun for kids. Open jump sessions require registration, and adults can enter for free. Pump It Up also offers private open play for groups, making it a perfect spot for birthday parties or playdates.For an ocean-themed adventure, check out JumpityBumpity in Daly City. Located in Serramonte Mall, this indoor playground features climbing, jumping, swinging, and crawling activities. There's even a dedicated space for toddlers, ensuring a safe and age-appropriate play experience. Plus, it's conveniently located for some shopping before or after playtime.The last indoor playground we'll highlight in San Mateo is Luv2Play in San Jose. This playground offers two levels of indoor play structures with crawl tubes and slides, as well as kiddie rides and arcade games. There's even a separate area for toddlers to enjoy a calmer play experience. With its exciting and adventurous play options, Luv2Play is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.Belmont PlaygroundsIf you're looking for more indoor play options in the San Mateo area, let's head over to Belmont where you'll find some exciting playgrounds for kids to enjoy. Belmont has a variety of options that will keep your little ones entertained and active. Here are three great playgrounds to check out:Pump It Up:This giant inflatable playground is a dream come true for kids who love bouncing and sliding.With slides and bounce houses, your children will have a blast getting their energy out.Adults enter for free, so you can join in on the fun or sit back and relax while your kids play.Jungle Fun & Adventure:This indoor play space offers a jungle-themed experience with plenty of fun activities.Kids can climb, slide, and explore the multi-level play structure.There are also interactive games and rides to keep them entertained for hours.Safari Sam's:Get ready for an adventure at Safari Sam's, a spacious indoor playground with a safari theme.Your little ones can crawl through tunnels, slide down slides, and explore the play structures.There's also a separate toddler area for the younger ones to play safely.These Belmont playgrounds provide a safe and exciting environment for kids to run, jump, and play to their heart's content. Whether you're looking for a place to burn off some energy or just want a fun outing for the family, Belmont has you covered.Daly City PlaygroundsLet's explore the exciting indoor playgrounds in Daly City, where kids can have a blast and let their imaginations run wild.One of the popular options is JumpityBumpity, an ocean-themed indoor playground located in Serramonte Mall. This playground offers a variety of activities that will keep kids entertained for hours. From climbing and jumping to swinging and crawling, there's something for every child to enjoy.JumpityBumpity also has a dedicated space for toddlers, ensuring that even the littlest ones can join in on the fun. The playground is conveniently located in the mall, making it a great option for families who want to combine shopping and playtime.The atmosphere at JumpityBumpity is vibrant and energetic, creating a sense of freedom and excitement for kids. The colorful ocean theme adds an extra element of imagination to the play experience. Parents can relax and watch their children have fun, knowing that they're in a safe and supervised environment.San Jose PlaygroundsWhen exploring the vibrant city of San Jose, families will find a variety of exciting indoor playgrounds that offer endless fun and entertainment for children of all ages. Here are three top-notch options to consider:The Plex: This playground is a haven for both kids and parents. With activities like bocce ball, open skate, and arcade games, there's something for everyone. The Kids Corner is perfect for little ones, while older kids can enjoy the inflatable jumpers and rock climbing wall. Parents can relax in the lounge area and watch their children have a blast. Whether you're looking for a short visit or an all-day adventure, The Plex has got you covered.Lost Worlds Funtropolis: If your kids love superheroes and thrilling adventures, this playground is a must-visit. With laser tag, mini golf, and a four-level play structure featuring a lava-themed ball pit and trampolines, there's no shortage of excitement here. The impressive wave slides are sure to be a hit with older kids. Lost Worlds Funtropolis offers an array of exciting and adventurous play options that will keep your children entertained for hours.Luv2Play: With two levels of indoor play structures, crawl tubes, and slides, Luv2Play is a paradise for kids who love to explore. The arcade games and kiddie rides add an extra dose of fun to the experience. The separate toddler area provides a calm and safe space for younger children to play. Luv2Play is the perfect destination for families seeking a freedom-filled playtime experience.These indoor playgrounds in San Jose offer a range of activities and amenities that will keep children entertained while giving parents the freedom to relax and enjoy their time. Whether you're seeking adventure, superhero-themed fun, or a space for your little ones to explore, San Jose has the perfect playground for your family.Frequently Asked QuestionsAre the Indoor Playgrounds Mentioned in the Article Suitable for Children of All Ages?Yes, the indoor playgrounds mentioned in the article are suitable for children of all ages. They offer a variety of play structures, activities, and themed areas to cater to different age groups.From trampoline parks and obstacle courses to mini golf and inflatable playgrounds, there's something for everyone.These indoor play spaces provide a safe and weather-independent environment for kids to have fun, burn off energy, and engage in imaginative play.Can Parents Drop off Their Children at Any of the Indoor Playgrounds?Sure, parents can drop off their children at some of the indoor playgrounds mentioned. Places like Mod Kids Co. in Fremont and Bumblebee Playspace in Newark offer structured activities and even a Parents Time Off option for some much-needed quiet time.And if you're in the Mission District, Urban Putt is open until 8pm and then turns into a 21 and older spot. So, yes, there are options for parents to drop off their little ones and enjoy some freedom themselves.Do Any of the Indoor Playgrounds Offer Structured Activities or Programs?Yes, some of the indoor playgrounds in San Francisco offer structured activities and programs.For example, Mod Kids Co. in Fremont provides activities like paint and play and crafts, as well as a Parents Time Off option for some quiet time.The Plex in San Jose offers endless activities including bocce ball, open skate, and arcade, and also has a craft area.These programs and activities add an extra level of fun and engagement for children at these indoor playgrounds.Is There a Designated Area for Babies and Toddlers at Each Indoor Playground?Yes, there's a designated area for babies and toddlers at each indoor playground. These spaces are specifically designed to cater to the needs of our littlest adventurers.With soft play structures, sensory activities, and age-appropriate toys, they provide a safe and stimulating environment for infants and toddlers to explore and play.Parents can relax knowing that their little ones are in a space tailored just for them, allowing them the freedom to enjoy their time at the playground.Are Socks Required to Play at All of the Indoor Playgrounds?Yes, socks are required to play at all of the indoor playgrounds. Wearing socks ensures a clean and safe environment for everyone.Plus, it helps prevent slips and falls on the play structures.ConclusionAnd there you have it, the top indoor playgrounds and play spaces in San Francisco!From the exciting trampoline parks to the imaginative playhouses, these hidden gems offer safe and stimulating environments for children of all ages to unleash their imagination and have a blast.So don't wait, pack up the little ones and get ready to bounce, climb, slide, and explore. Let the adventure begin!Remember, the sky's the limit when it comes to indoor play in San Francisco. Read More : https://worldkidstravel.com/15-top-indoor-playgrounds-and-play-spaces-in-san-francisco/?feed_id=2472&_unique_id=65ff143870dfa submitted by Sweet-Count2557 to worldkidstravel [link] [comments] |
2024.03.20 23:59 fieryllamaboner74 Lower leg muscles tightening up, becoming firm...
Hello walkers!
I am currently overweight, pre-diabetic, and have only until recently been very inactive in my daily life. Hiking, biking, and walking are the only exercises that I find myself enjoying.
However, after a certain amount of time walking, my lower leg muscles and ankles start to acne and tense up really hard until they are firm to the touch.
It is frustrating because while my body as a whole isn't tired and wants to keep going, it's like it's only my legs that is stopping me from going further. I have tried various forms of stretches, memory foam shoes, arch support. And while they do help, the pain and tense muscles always eventually come back.
For all you walks, hikers out there. Have any of you went through a similar problem? If so. How'd you alleviate or train your legs to walk for longer distances without tensing up?
Thank you.
submitted by fieryllamaboner74 to walking [link] [comments]
I am currently overweight, pre-diabetic, and have only until recently been very inactive in my daily life. Hiking, biking, and walking are the only exercises that I find myself enjoying.
However, after a certain amount of time walking, my lower leg muscles and ankles start to acne and tense up really hard until they are firm to the touch.
It is frustrating because while my body as a whole isn't tired and wants to keep going, it's like it's only my legs that is stopping me from going further. I have tried various forms of stretches, memory foam shoes, arch support. And while they do help, the pain and tense muscles always eventually come back.
For all you walks, hikers out there. Have any of you went through a similar problem? If so. How'd you alleviate or train your legs to walk for longer distances without tensing up?
Thank you.