Orthopeadic medical assistant job in new olreans
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2012.02.10 07:33 Topics in Physical Therapy
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2009.02.13 17:45 Neues Aus Berlin
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2024.05.19 12:10 SharkEva AITAH for wanting to leave my volunteer position because they gave the paid job to their best friends child
I am not the OOP. The OOP is u/Illustrious_Young430 posting in AITAH
Concluded as per OOP
1 update - Short
Original - 13th May 2024
Update - 17th May 2024
AITAH for wanting to leave my volunteer position because they gave the paid job to their best friends child
I’ve been volunteering in a charity shop since about August last year, I initially started to get myself back into a routine and work ready for being out of work for so long. I really enjoyed it and it’s given me so much confidence. Unfortunately the manager had to take sick leave because she needs an operation, the assistant manager handed in her keys and quit because no one from the other stores would come in and help or cover a day for her, so she was basically doing everything.
The shop had to close for awhile till they found someone else. When they did I came straight back because I had started to fall backwards in myself and needed the routine again. The new (floating manager) let’s call Mary, is 19 and had no idea how to run the shop, her mum is the companies customs manager for this area, she is also best friends with another lady who runs one of the other shops (she has two daughters) one is running another shop. This is not a family run business.
At first it was very unwelcoming and they changed how we worked, I gave it time because obviously she’s new to this and doesn’t really talk to anyone, eventually over time we became friendly, work well together and have a laugh. A new assistant manager had been hired who is absolutely amazing and we get on very well, he has recently gone to another one of the stores to run it as manager.
His job became available so I asked about applying, Mary got really excited and wanted me to apply, she helped me with interview questions, gave me the opportunity to run the shop for a few days completely on my own, which went very well. At first she wasn’t doing the interviews, it was her mum and someone else.
When it came closer I got informed that her and her mum was interviewing me, I got excited because I thought I was a shoo in as Mary had expressed if she could pick then it would be me. A day before, I found out that the ladies other daughter was applying too, I knew from then on it didn’t matter what I said or did I wouldn’t be getting it because they are all very close.
Mary’s mum rang me to say I didn’t get it the other girl did, making out it was some random women, even though I know it’s the daughter, but that I did very well and they wanted to make me lead volunteer, I have been there for months, run it on my own, cashed up, opened up, everything, I know how to run it better than mary does.
I want to leave because I feel like I’ve been screwed over, I’m going to complain to the higher up because i feel it’s unfair to basically say I have the job, but then give it to your best friends daughter.
Comments
Rare-Selection2348
Don't bother complaining. Don't bother going in again. NTA
Old_Web8071
Complaining probably won't do any good. Best bet is to walk away & find a job that pays. Or some other charity until you do.
And don't give a notice. At the end of a day, just say, "I'm not coming back to work here" & leave. Preferably when you know they will be short-handed because other people are already taking off.
It's up to you if you want to give them a notice or reason you're leaving. Me? I'd just say I'm not coming back.
Foolish-Pleasure99
Yes, don't complain, leave. Any notice up to you. They will quickly learn nepotism is not a management strategy, will suffer, and will cover that all up or chalk it up to "learning on the job".
I do not see anyone reaching out to admit they made a mistake and if you stay you're just a doormat and will have to run the place without pay or recognition.
**Judgement - NTA*\*
Update - 4 days later
Thank you for all your messages I didn’t expect anyone to reply. I left, I went in and it was really awkward, so when I finished for the day I told Mary this is my last day, she was shocked and didn’t really know what to say. I walked out knowing that most of the other volunteers will probably leave soon too.
Either for paying jobs or because they are getting annoyed with how it’s run. I’m also going to tell the higher ups about it because I don’t want them to get away with it, it’s not the first time and someone in the comments pointed out that corporate might not know what is going on and it’s not fair to anyone.
Comments
kobresia9
Mary must be really dense if she's shocked
ankle-biter-42
You’d be surprised at how stupid people like this can be. Either that or she thinks she’s manipulating OP
Stephenallen1977
Honesty this was the best course of action for you.
If you are in the UK it does not sound like there was a fair recruitment process given that there was favouritism to someone who did not have experience.
UtahCyan
Nepo hires. Happens everywhere. They usually end up in disaster, but you have to wait for the disaster for anything you change.
I am not the OOP. Please do not harass the OOP.
Please remember the No Brigading Rule and to be civil in the comments
submitted by SharkEva to BORUpdates [link] [comments]
Concluded as per OOP
1 update - Short
Original - 13th May 2024
Update - 17th May 2024
AITAH for wanting to leave my volunteer position because they gave the paid job to their best friends child
I’ve been volunteering in a charity shop since about August last year, I initially started to get myself back into a routine and work ready for being out of work for so long. I really enjoyed it and it’s given me so much confidence. Unfortunately the manager had to take sick leave because she needs an operation, the assistant manager handed in her keys and quit because no one from the other stores would come in and help or cover a day for her, so she was basically doing everything.
The shop had to close for awhile till they found someone else. When they did I came straight back because I had started to fall backwards in myself and needed the routine again. The new (floating manager) let’s call Mary, is 19 and had no idea how to run the shop, her mum is the companies customs manager for this area, she is also best friends with another lady who runs one of the other shops (she has two daughters) one is running another shop. This is not a family run business.
At first it was very unwelcoming and they changed how we worked, I gave it time because obviously she’s new to this and doesn’t really talk to anyone, eventually over time we became friendly, work well together and have a laugh. A new assistant manager had been hired who is absolutely amazing and we get on very well, he has recently gone to another one of the stores to run it as manager.
His job became available so I asked about applying, Mary got really excited and wanted me to apply, she helped me with interview questions, gave me the opportunity to run the shop for a few days completely on my own, which went very well. At first she wasn’t doing the interviews, it was her mum and someone else.
When it came closer I got informed that her and her mum was interviewing me, I got excited because I thought I was a shoo in as Mary had expressed if she could pick then it would be me. A day before, I found out that the ladies other daughter was applying too, I knew from then on it didn’t matter what I said or did I wouldn’t be getting it because they are all very close.
Mary’s mum rang me to say I didn’t get it the other girl did, making out it was some random women, even though I know it’s the daughter, but that I did very well and they wanted to make me lead volunteer, I have been there for months, run it on my own, cashed up, opened up, everything, I know how to run it better than mary does.
I want to leave because I feel like I’ve been screwed over, I’m going to complain to the higher up because i feel it’s unfair to basically say I have the job, but then give it to your best friends daughter.
Comments
Rare-Selection2348
Don't bother complaining. Don't bother going in again. NTA
Old_Web8071
Complaining probably won't do any good. Best bet is to walk away & find a job that pays. Or some other charity until you do.
And don't give a notice. At the end of a day, just say, "I'm not coming back to work here" & leave. Preferably when you know they will be short-handed because other people are already taking off.
It's up to you if you want to give them a notice or reason you're leaving. Me? I'd just say I'm not coming back.
Foolish-Pleasure99
Yes, don't complain, leave. Any notice up to you. They will quickly learn nepotism is not a management strategy, will suffer, and will cover that all up or chalk it up to "learning on the job".
I do not see anyone reaching out to admit they made a mistake and if you stay you're just a doormat and will have to run the place without pay or recognition.
**Judgement - NTA*\*
Update - 4 days later
Thank you for all your messages I didn’t expect anyone to reply. I left, I went in and it was really awkward, so when I finished for the day I told Mary this is my last day, she was shocked and didn’t really know what to say. I walked out knowing that most of the other volunteers will probably leave soon too.
Either for paying jobs or because they are getting annoyed with how it’s run. I’m also going to tell the higher ups about it because I don’t want them to get away with it, it’s not the first time and someone in the comments pointed out that corporate might not know what is going on and it’s not fair to anyone.
Comments
kobresia9
Mary must be really dense if she's shocked
ankle-biter-42
You’d be surprised at how stupid people like this can be. Either that or she thinks she’s manipulating OP
Stephenallen1977
Honesty this was the best course of action for you.
If you are in the UK it does not sound like there was a fair recruitment process given that there was favouritism to someone who did not have experience.
UtahCyan
Nepo hires. Happens everywhere. They usually end up in disaster, but you have to wait for the disaster for anything you change.
I am not the OOP. Please do not harass the OOP.
Please remember the No Brigading Rule and to be civil in the comments
2024.05.19 11:56 Stage-Piercing727 Best Carhartt Hunting Jackets
 | submitted by Stage-Piercing727 to u/Stage-Piercing727 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/g0ervckfvc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=332a465217c6840edca4608ea5a3c76258383f8e Welcome to our Carhartt Hunting Jacket roundup. Whether you're an avid hunter or just starting out, finding the perfect jacket to keep you warm and comfortable during your hunting trips is crucial. Today, we bring to you a selection of top-quality Carhartt Hunting Jackets that are not only stylish but also designed for durability and peak performance. Read on to find the perfect jacket that suits your hunting preferences and style. In this article, we'll explore the key features, performance benefits, and customer reviews of the best Carhartt Hunting Jackets available in the market today. As you delve deeper into our review, you'll discover the perfect jacket that not only complements your hunting outfits but also enhances your overall hunting experience. Stay tuned to uncover the best Carhartt Hunting Jackets and make the most of your hunting adventures! The Top 19 Best Carhartt Hunting Jackets
Reviews🔗Camo Insulated Rugged Flex Men's Jacket: Comfort, Durability & Mossy Oak Patternhttps://preview.redd.it/lqwwde0gvc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3bf382b76ec9dd3560e9e10a00dcf6289ff1a360 My Carhartt Men's Rugged Flex Duck Camo Active Jacket has been a game-changer in my hunting adventures. I've been using it for the past three hunting seasons, and it's been nothing short of amazing. The first thing that caught my attention was its durability; it's held up against some harsh weather conditions. The Rugged Flex stretch technology and elbow pleats allow for easy movement, which is crucial when I'm tracking down my prey. One of the most impressive features is the DWR finish that provides excellent water resistance. It's kept me dry even during unexpected downpours. The Mossy Oak Bottomland camo pattern truly helps me blend in with my surroundings, making it easier to stay hidden from my quarry. However, there are few things that could use some improvement. The loose fit means I sometimes experience a bit of wind coming up, but it's not too much of an issue. Additionally, while the zipper quality is solid, it could be slightly longer, as suggested by other reviewers. Overall, the Carhartt Men's Rugged Flex Duck Camo Active Jacket has been a reliable companion on my hunts, protecting me from the elements and enabling me to focus on the task at hand. If you're in the market for a well-constructed and comfortable hunting jacket, this one should definitely be on your radar. 🔗Carhartt Classic Brown Duck Coat with Corduroy Collarhttps://preview.redd.it/gjelnnkgvc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=73b08da0c3ef44f85c77311800d674aab16f961a A couple of years ago, I purchased the Carhartt Men's Firm Duck Chore Coat for myself when I was gearing up for a cold and windy construction project. The first thing that stood out to me about this coat was its heritage-inspired design, reminiscent of the pocket watch era. As time went on, I had the opportunity to test its claims of being water-repellent and wind-resistant, and I can confirm that it lived up to my expectations, even in harsh conditions. One significant highlight of the Carhartt Chore Coat is its corduroy collar, which has been in use since the late 1930s and has that classic, timeless look. Additionally, the rugged firm-hand duck fabric not only gives it a sturdy feel but also becomes more comfortable with time, making it a reliable piece of outerwear. As much as I love this coat, it does have a couple of drawbacks. Firstly, the length of the sleeves can be a bit too long for some users, with some having to size down to ensure a comfortable fit. Secondly, the coat's collar could be slightly wider to provide better protection against the wind. In conclusion, the Carhartt Firm Duck Chore Coat is the perfect choice for those who prioritize comfort, warmth, and durability in their outerwear. Its timeless design and high-quality materials make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking for a reliable coat that will stand the test of time. 🔗Carhartt Rain Defender Fleece Shirt Jackethttps://preview.redd.it/y8kkylqgvc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0f0b4bb1c92157046e5a7e0cab246597aaed6a50 I recently got my hands on the Carhartt Rain Defender Relaxed Fit Hooded Shirt Jacket in Black Heather and let me tell you, it's been a game-changer in my daily life. As an avid outdoorsman, I appreciate the flexibility of this jacket - it's suitable for various weather conditions. One thing that really stood out for me was the adjustable hood, which ensures good visibility even during a downpour. The high collar also provides additional protection against the elements. Another highlight is its durability. The Windfighter fleece, combined with the Rain Defender finish, makes it wind and water-resistant, while its triple-stitched main seams add extra strength. Notably, there are ample pockets for all my essentials. However, there's one issue I encountered with the hood design. It can feel awkward if worn with a cap, though a beanie or hard hat doesn't pose the same problem. In terms of sizing, I found that the medium size fits perfectly, providing enough room for layering without compromising on comfort. The length of this jacket is another praiseworthy feature - it's just right, even without the 'tall' version. Lastly, while it's not technically a winter jacket, I believe that with some insulation, it could be the perfect companion in winter. Overall, the Carhartt Rain Defender is a reliable go-to for various weather conditions, offering comfort, durability, and functionality. 🔗Carhartt Men's Lightweight Hooded Jackethttps://preview.redd.it/kbt1283hvc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=df1a27058b1649184cd8236dbe7fe5f04200a9ed I recently got my hands on the Carhartt Super Dux Relaxed Fit Lightweight Mock-Neck Jacket and I must say, I'm quite impressed. The jacket provides excellent protection against wind and light rain, making it perfect for those chilly days when you're outdoors. It's a great piece to layer up with during mild winters. One of the standout features of this jacket is its flexibility. Thanks to the Rugged Flex stretch technology, I can move freely without any hindrance - whether I'm running errands or engaging in some physical activity. The wind-resistant fabric ensures that my body stays warm even when there's a chill in the air. However, there's one drawback that I've noticed - the collar. It feels a bit too large and tends to get in the way while turning my head. It would be great if Carhartt could address this issue in future models. In terms of pocket storage, this jacket delivers as well. There are several secure zipper pockets both inside and outside, allowing me to safely stow away my essentials like tools or supplies. Overall, the Carhartt Super Dux Relaxed Fit Lightweight Mock-Neck Jacket has become a staple in my daily outdoor wear. Its lightweight design, coupled with its wind and water resistance, make it a practical choice for anyone who spends time outdoors. Despite the minor issue with the collar, I'm highly satisfied with this jacket. 🔗Carhartt Realtreed Xtra Camo Sherpa Lined Active Jackethttps://preview.redd.it/qo0me0ohvc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=119c6715543338880779bc3fcf9bb6e35bebc6c9 Carhartt's Men's Super Dux Relaxed Fit Sherpa-Lined Camo Active Jacket is a warm and durable piece of outerwear that's perfect for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts alike. I recently purchased one in Mossy Oak Bottomland Camo, and I must say, it has quickly become my go-to jacket for all my outdoor adventures. The first thing that struck me was the quality of this jacket. The 18.1-ounce, 97% nylon/3% elastane fabric feels sturdy and well-made, offering excellent wind resistance and a sprinkle of light rain protection. The Sherpa lining inside is incredibly soft and cozy, keeping me warm even on the chilliest days. One aspect I particularly love about this jacket is its spacious interior pocket. It comfortably holds my essentials without weighing me down or restricting my movement. The secure zipper left chest pocket is another useful feature, providing an easy-to-access spot for my phone and keys while I'm out and about. However, there are a few minor drawbacks to the Carhartt Men's Super Dux Jacket that I think are worth mentioning. Firstly, the adjustable hood with a hidden drawcord and cord lock is a nice touch for safety, but I've found that it can be a bit difficult to adjust while wearing gloves. Secondly, the lack of elbow or armpit gussets means that the jacket doesn't always move with me as smoothly as I'd like, especially when reaching or lifting objects. Despite these small issues, I'm overall very satisfied with my Carhartt Men's Super Dux Relaxed Fit Sherpa-Lined Camo Active Jacket. Its comfort, durability, and practical features make it a standout choice for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors. 🔗Carhartt Washed Duck Insulated Active Jackethttps://preview.redd.it/4bdckzxhvc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=36a6bbe7e0c8d9b493a04c4249b5b155cca4c5fb As someone who spends a lot of time outdoors, I have to say that the Carhartt Men's Washed Duck Insulated Active Jacket has been a game-changer for me. I've had this jacket for several months now and it has held up incredibly well. What stands out the most to me about this jacket is the heavyweight cotton duck fabric. It's not only warm and durable, but it also has a nice, broken-in feel to it that makes it super comfortable to wear. The 3M Thinsulate insulation adds an extra layer of warmth without making the jacket too bulky or heavy. One feature I really appreciate is the attached hood with low profile adjustment. On windy days, this hood helps keep me protected and warm. Plus, the cord locks make it easy to adjust the fit without having to deal with annoying drawstrings. Another positive aspect of this jacket is the updated lower front pockets. They're now lined with brushed tricot, which makes them feel much softer and more comfortable against my skin. And when I'm out working in the cold, I love how the pen stall in the right, lower front pocket lets me keep all my essentials close at hand. However, there is one aspect of this jacket that could use some improvement - the side pockets. They could definitely be deeper, as they don't provide enough room for storing larger items like smartphones or wallets when you're on the move. Overall, the Carhartt Men's Washed Duck Insulated Active Jacket is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a reliable, comfortable, and stylish cold weather jacket. The durability and thoughtful design features make it well worth the investment, and I can't recommend it highly enough. 🔗Carhartt Super Dux Insulated Jacket for Menhttps://preview.redd.it/a8870zgivc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e730e82932cb7e639a5ab1bf179935b5175c57ce The Carhartt Men's Super Dux Relaxed Fit Insulated Jacket was my go-to for those chilly days. On my latest project in the backyard, the wind was relentless and the rain was coming down hard, but this jacket held its own. The 100-gram Thinsulate insulation kept me toasty and the Rain Defender technology ensured I stayed dry. One of my favorite features was the Rugged Flex technology that allowed for unrestricted movement. The bi-swing shoulders and flexible elbows made reaching up high or bending over a much easier task. I never felt trapped in the jacket, even when I was getting really active. The hood was also a game-changer, able to protect my head not only from the rain but also from the wind. Plus, the detachable feature was super convenient - I could remove it on warmer days or when I needed to interact with someone face-to-face. However, I noticed that the interior storm cuffs were loose and didn't keep out the draft as well as I'd like. And while the length was perfect for my needs, it might not suit everyone. Despite these issues, the jacket's high-quality construction, impressive warmth, and rugged design made it a reliable addition to my wardrobe for those harsh conditions. 🔗Carhartt Men's Yukon Extremes Insulated Active Jacket - Blackhttps://preview.redd.it/dgjxdyqivc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=38aea4fb9e9855187f660b64af25d37d392586f3 Recently, I purchased the Carhartt Men's Yukon Extremes Insulated Active Jacket, and I'm quite satisfied with its performance. As someone who spends a lot of time outdoors, it's important for me to have a jacket that's not only durable but also well-insulated and wind-resistant. This active jacket did not disappoint. The first thing that caught my attention when I received the jacket was the 3M Thinsulate insulation, which provides excellent warmth without feeling too bulky. I'm particularly fond of the hood design, featuring a drawcord and reflective Carhartt patch. The hood not only keeps me protected from rain and snow but also ensures visibility during nighttime activities. However, one area where the jacket could be improved is its zipper quality. While the plastic zipper works fine, I'm more accustomed to metal zippers, which are generally more reliable and durable. In addition, the jacket can be somewhat noisy when walking due to the swishy fabric sound - not ideal for hunting purposes. Despite these minor drawbacks, I believe the Carhartt Men's Yukon Extremes Insulated Active Jacket is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a reliable and well-insulated winter coat. Its attractive design, variety of pockets, and comfortable fit make it a versatile option for both recreational activities and daily life. Overall, I'm pleased with my purchase and believe many others will be too. 🔗Carhartt Youth Canvas Insulated Hooded Jacket - Mossy Oak Country DNAhttps://preview.redd.it/h1pq5j6jvc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a97cea9c48e41af642305cb09c6436c6033c7afd I don't know about you, but I'm a big fan of Carhartt - especially their Camo line. That's why I decided to get this Canvas Insulated Hooded Jacket for my son. Let me tell you, it has been a game changer this hunting season! First off, the quality is top-notch. This jacket is made with heavy-duty canvas and features triple-stitched seams. Even after several washes, it still looks brand new. The quilted flannel lining on the inside also ensures that my boy stays warm and comfortable no matter how cold it is outside. One of my favorite features of this jacket is the hidden rib-knit cuffs. They keep his wrists toasty and make sure no wind or sleet sneaks in. Plus, the insulated front pockets are perfect for storing his hands or keeping small gear close at hand while he's out in the field. Now, let's talk about the hood. It's full zip, so it provides ample protection against rain, snow, or even those pesky mosquitoes during summer months. And speaking of zipping, the main zipper is high quality and doesn't get stuck or catch on the fabric. While the jacket isn't water-resistant, it does dry relatively quickly when hung up, making it easy to clean and maintain. The only downside I've noticed is that the sleeve length could be a bit longer, especially if your child is taller than average. Overall, I'm extremely satisfied with this Camo Canvas Insulated Hooded Jacket from Carhartt. It has everything a young hunter could want - durability, comfort, and style. If you're looking for a reliable and well-made jacket for your little outdoorsman (or outdoorswoman), look no further than this one. 🔗Carhartt Gilliam Insulated Jackethttps://preview.redd.it/nkwzggnjvc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8ac560b72162b731e103f7cc19c56e940946dfda I recently got my hands on the Carhartt Men's Black Gilliam Jacket and oh boy, it's been a game-changer for my daily life! This insulated jacket is not just about keeping you warm during winter, but also about providing you with some real protection from unwanted dampness. The DWR finish ensures that you stay dry and comfortable even when the weather takes a turn. One thing I truly appreciate is the zipper closure feature. It's a small detail, yet it does an excellent job of keeping out the cold winds. Speaking of features, it comes with heaps of pockets - some even have protective closures. This means you can carry all your small work essentials without worrying about losing them. Now, let's talk about the cons. Though I'm not usually bothered by minor issues, I must say the length of the sleeves could be a bit longer. It may not be a problem for everyone, but it did catch my eye. All in all, the Gilliam Jacket has definitely earned a place in my wardrobe. Its water-repellent capabilities, the myriad of pockets, and the overall comfort it provides make it the perfect companion for these colder days. So if you're looking for a reliable work jacket that doesn't compromise on style or functionality, this one's a solid choice! 🔗Carhartt Men's Full Swing Steel Jacket in Blackhttps://preview.redd.it/ed4oog2kvc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c64e5eca091121737bcf3d52378aee0819058f35 I've been using this Carhartt Men's Full Swing Steel Jacket for a while now, and I must say, it's been a reliable companion through the colder months. Its 3M Thinsulate insulation keeps me warm and cozy even during the harshest winters, and the DWR finish makes sure I stay dry even when caught in a rainstorm. One of my favorite features is the detachable hood. It gives me personalized styling options depending on my mood or weather conditions. The jacket's rugged construction is also worth highlighting, as it's made of stretch ripstop for extra flexibility and freedom of movement. However, I've experienced some issues with the zipper quality. It can sometimes get stuck or hang at every little wrinkle, which can be quite frustrating. Another minor issue is the sizing, as the jacket tends to run on the smaller side, but that's easily fixed by choosing a size larger than usual. All in all, I'm quite satisfied with the Carhartt Men's Full Swing Steel Jacket. Its combination of style, comfort, and functionality makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile and reliable winter jacket. 🔗Carhartt Men's Super Dux Traditional Insulated Coat (Black) - Relaxed Fit, Machine Washhttps://preview.redd.it/or65m7dkvc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=223f52063a4f689bc57b66eea80b81090db51c79 I recently purchased the Carhartt Super Dux Relaxed Fit Insulated Traditional Coat to stay warm during those chilly winter days. The coat's 7.75-ounce nylon fabric is treated with Rain Defender durable water-repellent finish, ensuring that I stay dry even in heavy rain. Additionally, the Wind Fighter technology effectively blocks the wind, keeping me cozy and comfortable. One of my favorite features of this coat is the quilt-lined insulation with 100g of 3M Thinsulate, providing excellent warmth. The secure hook-and-loop right chest pocket and zipper left chest pocket are perfect for storing my essentials, while the two snap front lower pockets with side entry hand warmers keep my hands toasty. The interior hook-and-look pocket on the wearer's left side offers additional storage space. I also appreciate the drop-tail hem, which provides extra coverage, and the adjustable hood with chin guard and hidden drawstrings, which protect me from harsh weather conditions. The rib-knit storm cuffs effectively seal out the cold, and the center-front zipper with kissing welt makes it easy for me to put on and take off the coat. However, there are a few downsides to this coat. The side seam zippers, while providing added movement, can be a bit challenging to use at times. Additionally, the double-stitched main seam, although durable, can feel a bit stiff and may require some breaking in. In conclusion, the Carhartt Super Dux Relaxed Fit Insulated Traditional Coat is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and warm coat for winter. Its unique combination of features, such as the 7.75-ounce nylon fabric with Rain Defender technology, Wind Fighter technology, and 100g of 3M Thinsulate insulation, ensures that you stay dry and warm in even the harshest weather conditions. Although there are a few minor drawbacks, such as the stiffness of the double-stitched main seam and the occasional difficulty in using the side seam zippers, these issues do not significantly detract from the overall quality and performance of the coat. Overall, I am highly satisfied with my purchase and would recommend this coat to anyone looking for a high-quality winter garment. 🔗Black Men's Rough Cut Jacket by Carhartthttps://preview.redd.it/czaf3k2lvc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bcc3b43f556beb9649b5c230cd8000bbf290a97c Carhartt's men's Rough Cut Jacket, in black, is perfect for those chilly autumn days. This heavyweight flannel piece, with a sherpa fleece lining in its body and a quilted lining on the sleeves, offers both warmth and style. The original-fit shirt-jac features handwarmer pockets and zippered ones ideal for storing your wallet or keys. If you're an outdoor enthusiast, this jacket can withstand the elements, and after years of use, you'd be hard pressed to find any significant wear and tear on it. Although it's designed primarily for breathability and not as a standalone layer for keeping warm, it pairs beautifully with fleece or down mid-layers. However, despite its high rating, the jacket does have a few minor drawbacks. The first is that the zipper tends to get stuck, particularly near the neck area, often requiring fiddling for a few minutes. Some users also mentioned they found the arms to be slightly short, as well as the jacket being slightly stiff when new. But these issues seem to be more common with the first batch, with newer models appearing to have resolved these concerns. In conclusion, the Carhartt men's Rough Cut Jacket is a high-quality, stylish option that provides warmth and comfort while maintaining a sleek appearance. Its wind resistance and pairing ability with other layers make it an ideal choice for fall and winter outings. And although the stiffness and the issue with the zipper might be present initially, they seem to resolve with time and use. Therefore, I would recommend this jacket to anyone seeking a reliable, durable option for their outdoor activities. Buyer's GuideCarhartt Hunting Jackets are designed to provide durability, comfort, and functionality during hunting trips. In this guide, we'll cover important features, considerations, and advice for choosing the right Carhartt Hunting Jacket to suit your specific needs.Important Featureshttps://preview.redd.it/5o6ft62ovc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6dc9ed3b6ae9d42a3da3ad1ea62358b68c8ddccf
Considerations
General Advice
https://preview.redd.it/7asmrrjovc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f8b7ca5d673766bbd0235a9ad0ff65f44df71cae FAQWhich Carhartt hunting jacket is the most popular?The Carhartt Quilted Flannel Lined Jacket is one of the most popular and highly-rated hunting jackets due to its comfort, durability, and warmth.How do I choose the right size for a Carhartt hunting jacket?https://preview.redd.it/75vbmv0pvc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0296c971fcb78c44618c1a3ad12bf645e3163691 To find the perfect fit, consult Carhartt's sizing chart on their website. Measure your chest, waist, and hips, and choose a jacket that matches your measurements. It's also advisable to read customer reviews for specific size recommendations. What features make Carhartt hunting jackets stand out?
Can I wash my Carhartt hunting jacket in a washing machine?Yes, most Carhartt hunting jackets are designed for machine washing. Use cold water and mild detergent, then hang to dry or tumble dry low. Be sure to check the care instructions included with your specific jacket for more detailed guidance. https://preview.redd.it/yt55kqdpvc1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8cc4223c087bd9454cb24145a683241b8ad131be How waterproof are Carhartt hunting jackets?Many Carhartt hunting jackets are water-resistant, which means they can withstand light rain or snow. If you need a more waterproof option, look for jackets with waterproof membranes or coatings, such as the Carhartt Rain Defender Jacket.Do Carhartt hunting jackets come with a warranty?Carhartt offers a one-year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for most of their products, including hunting jackets. To make a claim, contact their customer service team with the details of your issue and the product's model/Serial Number.How can I tell if a Carhartt hunting jacket is genuine?Look for the Carhartt label and logo on the jacket, as well as the product tag with the style number indicating the specific model and color. Be cautious when purchasing second-hand, as counterfeit jackets may be sold online. If in doubt, contact Carhartt's customer service for assistance.How do I care for my Carhartt hunting jacket to extend its longevity?
Are there specific models of Carhartt hunting jackets suitable for women?Yes, Carhartt offers hunting jackets designed specifically for women, like the Carhartt Women's Big & Tall Quilted Flannel Lined Jacket. These jackets feature a tailored fit and adjustability options to ensure a comfortable and flattering fit for women wearing these jackets while hunting.How can I find discounted Carhartt hunting jackets?Keep an eye on Carhartt's official website and authorized retailers for seasonal sales and promotions. Additionally, you may find discounted hunting jackets on sites like eBay or Amazon, but make sure to verify the authenticity of the product before purchasing.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.05.19 11:50 DelayMobile2633 Is the Keto diet good to treat diabetes?
The ketogenic diet, or keto diet for short, is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that has gained popularity as a weight loss and health improvement technique in recent years. The keto diet aims to induce a metabolic state known as ketosis, in which the body burns fat for energy rather than carbs.
Diabetes is a long-term disease that affects how the body processes blood sugar (glucose). Diabetes is classified into two types: type 1 and type 2. The body does not manufacture insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels, in type 1 diabetes. The body either does not produce enough insulin or does not utilise insulin efficiently in type 2 diabetes. High blood sugar levels can result from either kind of diabetes, increasing the risk of major health problems such as heart disease, nerve damage, and blindness.
The keto diet has gained popularity as a viable treatment option for diabetics, particularly those with type 2 diabetes. However, those with diabetes should consult with their healthcare provider before beginning any new diet or fitness program, as the keto diet may not be appropriate for everyone and may have risks and downsides. In this post, we will look at the benefits and hazards of the keto diet for diabetics.
How Does the Ketogenic Diet Work?
The keto diet is intended to produce ketosis in the body. The body begins to use fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates when in ketosis. When the body does not have enough carbs to consume for energy, such as when fasting or following a low-carbohydrate diet like the keto diet, this mechanism is initiated.
On the keto diet, a person typically has to consume fewer than 50 grams of carbohydrates per day to enter ketosis. This low carbohydrate consumption forces the body to rely on fat for energy instead. The diet is heavy in fat, accounting for around 75% of daily calories, and moderate in protein, accounting for approximately 20% of daily calories.
Carbohydrates play a limited part in the keto diet, as the diet focuses on eating healthy fats and proteins instead. The concept is that by substantially limiting carbohydrate consumption, the body would enter ketosis and begin burning fat for energy. However, not all fats and proteins are created equal, and it is critical to select nutrient-dense sources to guarantee an adequate intake of crucial vitamins and minerals.
It's also worth noting that the keto diet isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, and your carbohydrate requirements may differ. Working with a healthcare practitioner to identify the optimal level of carbohydrate intake for an individual's specific needs and goals is critical.
Diabetes patients may benefit from the keto diet.
The keto diet has gained popularity as a viable treatment option for diabetics, particularly those with type 2 diabetes. According to some research, the diet may have various potential benefits for people with diabetes, including:
Improved blood sugar control: According to one small trial, the keto diet improved blood sugar control and reduced the need for diabetes medications in persons with type 2 diabetes. It is crucial to remember, however, that the keto diet is not for everyone, and blood sugar control should be closely maintained while on the diet.
Weight reduction: Because of its low carbohydrate content and the resultant shift to burning fat for energy, the keto diet may result in weight loss. Losing weight can assist improve blood sugar control and lower the risk of diabetes complications.
Reduced insulin resistance: Insulin resistance, a prevalent feature of type 2 diabetes, refers to the body's inability to utilise insulin efficiently to manage blood sugar levels. According to several studies, the keto diet may enhance insulin sensitivity and decrease insulin resistance in persons with type 2 diabetes.
More research is required to properly understand the potential benefits of the keto diet for patients with diabetes. Before beginning any new diet or fitness program, individuals with diabetes should always consult with their healthcare provider.
The risks and disadvantages of the keto diet for diabetics.
While the keto diet may have some potential benefits for diabetics, it is critical to be aware of the dangers and cons. Some potential hazards and disadvantages of the keto diet for diabetics include:
Careful monitoring and medical supervision are required: The keto diet may not be suitable for everyone, and those with diabetes should consult with a healthcare team before beginning the diet. While on the diet, blood sugar levels should be constantly checked, and medications may need to be modified.
Nutrient shortages: Because the keto diet is low in certain nutrients, like as fiber, fruits, and vegetables, it may raise the risk of nutrient deficiencies. To guarantee a proper intake of key vitamins and minerals, pick nutrient-dense sources of fat and protein, as well as a variety of non-starchy vegetables.
Difficulty sticking to the diet long-term: Due to its tight carbohydrate limitations, the keto diet can be difficult to follow to long-term. This might make it difficult to stick to the diet and can lead to feelings of deprivation or boredom due to the limited food options.
Before beginning the keto diet, it is critical to thoroughly assess the potential dangers and drawbacks for those with diabetes. It may not be appropriate for everyone, and working with a healthcare team to find the optimal treatment method for an individual's specific requirements and goals is always recommended.
Finally, the keto diet has gained popularity as a possible therapeutic option for persons with diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes. According to some research, the diet may offer various potential benefits for diabetics, including improved blood sugar control, weight loss, and lower insulin resistance. However, it is critical to be aware of the possible risks and drawbacks of the keto diet for persons with diabetes, such as the necessity for constant monitoring and medical supervision, the possibility of nutrient deficiencies, and the difficulty of adhering to the diet over time.
Before beginning any new diet or fitness program, individuals with diabetes should always consult with their healthcare provider. The keto diet may not be appropriate for everyone, and it is critical to establish whether it is a safe and appropriate treatment choice based on an individual's specific needs and goals. It is also crucial to highlight that, unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare expert, the keto diet should not be used as a substitute for proven diabetes therapies such as medicines and insulin therapy.
submitted by DelayMobile2633 to weightlossplus [link] [comments]
Diabetes is a long-term disease that affects how the body processes blood sugar (glucose). Diabetes is classified into two types: type 1 and type 2. The body does not manufacture insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels, in type 1 diabetes. The body either does not produce enough insulin or does not utilise insulin efficiently in type 2 diabetes. High blood sugar levels can result from either kind of diabetes, increasing the risk of major health problems such as heart disease, nerve damage, and blindness.
The keto diet has gained popularity as a viable treatment option for diabetics, particularly those with type 2 diabetes. However, those with diabetes should consult with their healthcare provider before beginning any new diet or fitness program, as the keto diet may not be appropriate for everyone and may have risks and downsides. In this post, we will look at the benefits and hazards of the keto diet for diabetics.
How Does the Ketogenic Diet Work?
The keto diet is intended to produce ketosis in the body. The body begins to use fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates when in ketosis. When the body does not have enough carbs to consume for energy, such as when fasting or following a low-carbohydrate diet like the keto diet, this mechanism is initiated.
On the keto diet, a person typically has to consume fewer than 50 grams of carbohydrates per day to enter ketosis. This low carbohydrate consumption forces the body to rely on fat for energy instead. The diet is heavy in fat, accounting for around 75% of daily calories, and moderate in protein, accounting for approximately 20% of daily calories.
Carbohydrates play a limited part in the keto diet, as the diet focuses on eating healthy fats and proteins instead. The concept is that by substantially limiting carbohydrate consumption, the body would enter ketosis and begin burning fat for energy. However, not all fats and proteins are created equal, and it is critical to select nutrient-dense sources to guarantee an adequate intake of crucial vitamins and minerals.
It's also worth noting that the keto diet isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, and your carbohydrate requirements may differ. Working with a healthcare practitioner to identify the optimal level of carbohydrate intake for an individual's specific needs and goals is critical.
Diabetes patients may benefit from the keto diet.
The keto diet has gained popularity as a viable treatment option for diabetics, particularly those with type 2 diabetes. According to some research, the diet may have various potential benefits for people with diabetes, including:
Improved blood sugar control: According to one small trial, the keto diet improved blood sugar control and reduced the need for diabetes medications in persons with type 2 diabetes. It is crucial to remember, however, that the keto diet is not for everyone, and blood sugar control should be closely maintained while on the diet.
Weight reduction: Because of its low carbohydrate content and the resultant shift to burning fat for energy, the keto diet may result in weight loss. Losing weight can assist improve blood sugar control and lower the risk of diabetes complications.
Reduced insulin resistance: Insulin resistance, a prevalent feature of type 2 diabetes, refers to the body's inability to utilise insulin efficiently to manage blood sugar levels. According to several studies, the keto diet may enhance insulin sensitivity and decrease insulin resistance in persons with type 2 diabetes.
More research is required to properly understand the potential benefits of the keto diet for patients with diabetes. Before beginning any new diet or fitness program, individuals with diabetes should always consult with their healthcare provider.
The risks and disadvantages of the keto diet for diabetics.
While the keto diet may have some potential benefits for diabetics, it is critical to be aware of the dangers and cons. Some potential hazards and disadvantages of the keto diet for diabetics include:
Careful monitoring and medical supervision are required: The keto diet may not be suitable for everyone, and those with diabetes should consult with a healthcare team before beginning the diet. While on the diet, blood sugar levels should be constantly checked, and medications may need to be modified.
Nutrient shortages: Because the keto diet is low in certain nutrients, like as fiber, fruits, and vegetables, it may raise the risk of nutrient deficiencies. To guarantee a proper intake of key vitamins and minerals, pick nutrient-dense sources of fat and protein, as well as a variety of non-starchy vegetables.
Difficulty sticking to the diet long-term: Due to its tight carbohydrate limitations, the keto diet can be difficult to follow to long-term. This might make it difficult to stick to the diet and can lead to feelings of deprivation or boredom due to the limited food options.
Before beginning the keto diet, it is critical to thoroughly assess the potential dangers and drawbacks for those with diabetes. It may not be appropriate for everyone, and working with a healthcare team to find the optimal treatment method for an individual's specific requirements and goals is always recommended.
Finally, the keto diet has gained popularity as a possible therapeutic option for persons with diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes. According to some research, the diet may offer various potential benefits for diabetics, including improved blood sugar control, weight loss, and lower insulin resistance. However, it is critical to be aware of the possible risks and drawbacks of the keto diet for persons with diabetes, such as the necessity for constant monitoring and medical supervision, the possibility of nutrient deficiencies, and the difficulty of adhering to the diet over time.
Before beginning any new diet or fitness program, individuals with diabetes should always consult with their healthcare provider. The keto diet may not be appropriate for everyone, and it is critical to establish whether it is a safe and appropriate treatment choice based on an individual's specific needs and goals. It is also crucial to highlight that, unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare expert, the keto diet should not be used as a substitute for proven diabetes therapies such as medicines and insulin therapy.
2024.05.19 10:36 krazysrfr Turn 30 in a month and need help resetting life
I am 29 and am at my lowest financial point in my life, always considered myself good with money and fairly privileged to have a decent pay at all my jobs, but this past year has completely drained me financially.
A little back story I worked retail for 11 years got into management making 60k at 23 and after 3 years I was burnt out and left to go work in the IT field at a small AV manufacturer doing product acquisition this switch in jobs doubled my pay in the process to 120k not counting bonuses, at this point I was living on my own in a studio apartment had a nice car and was preparing to buy a house but in August of 2023 the company owners decided to retire and close it's doors forever leaving it's 12 employees jobless.
When this happened I had roughly $90k in savings and $110k in stocks/retirement, I decided to take a few months for myself and enjoy life and go back on the hunt for a job in the new year, but in November I had some serious medical issues and without insurance it basically drained me in one shot leaving me with only $3k in my savings so I broke my lease and moved back in with my pops and sold the car I was was making payments on.
Since then I've been working retail again while doing detailing on the side but I'm struggling with how expensive everything is here in Florida, and the job market is rough but I'm looking for any advice on starting over after losing it all, I already have cut down on all my expenses and don't have any debts but I just can't seem to save anything like I used to.
submitted by krazysrfr to Money [link] [comments]
A little back story I worked retail for 11 years got into management making 60k at 23 and after 3 years I was burnt out and left to go work in the IT field at a small AV manufacturer doing product acquisition this switch in jobs doubled my pay in the process to 120k not counting bonuses, at this point I was living on my own in a studio apartment had a nice car and was preparing to buy a house but in August of 2023 the company owners decided to retire and close it's doors forever leaving it's 12 employees jobless.
When this happened I had roughly $90k in savings and $110k in stocks/retirement, I decided to take a few months for myself and enjoy life and go back on the hunt for a job in the new year, but in November I had some serious medical issues and without insurance it basically drained me in one shot leaving me with only $3k in my savings so I broke my lease and moved back in with my pops and sold the car I was was making payments on.
Since then I've been working retail again while doing detailing on the side but I'm struggling with how expensive everything is here in Florida, and the job market is rough but I'm looking for any advice on starting over after losing it all, I already have cut down on all my expenses and don't have any debts but I just can't seem to save anything like I used to.
2024.05.19 10:18 hailheda Need Help for Career Switch
Hi everyone! I've been going for job interviews in the past few weeks and have been thinking of switching jobs for awhile. My current company is a SME, with nice colleagues, but sub-par welfare benefits. I have 12-days of AL and medical claim of less than $150 per calendar year. We have a yearly performance bonus (does not amount to 1 month) and AWS. This company is a family-run business and progression here is almost non-existent. I work in a very small team of 3 (including myself), usually always going the extra mile because my 1 out of 2 of my colleagues are not as competent and cannot be relied on during crunch time. To add, within a year, there are maybe about 4 times I was required to work for a roadshow and often times without off-in-lieu or overtime pay. It has been awhile since I felt like I haven't learnt anything from my job and my passion is slowing dying off. Besides, sometimes the company's decisions/goals are very much questionable and I feel like I no longer align with it.
On the other hand, I received offer from another SME, who is an MNC subsidiary. This company has substantial budget for marketing activities, but possibly a very small team as well. On top of a marketing manager, they have several other interns, including the position they were hiring me for. They have 14-days of AL, medical claim of $200 per calendar year. Possibly no performance bonus and AWS (still clarifying with the hiring manager). However, hearing the job scope really excited me because it was a new industry + more learning opportunities. Downside is that my superior may not have the relevant job experience, hence it may be a one-man show. During the interview, she did assured me that plans would be more structured and they do have external support from agencies, whenever needed. Similar to my current job, I would be required to work during my off-days, but the hiring manager said that it would be once a year, and the contract also indicated that the company, at it's discretion, may provide off-in-lieu (but no OT pay).
I am quite new to the job market so I wanted to ask if there are any inputs you guys might have pertaining to this. Would really appreciate any advice/tips that can help me to make a more informed decision. Thank you in advance!
submitted by hailheda to askSingapore [link] [comments]
On the other hand, I received offer from another SME, who is an MNC subsidiary. This company has substantial budget for marketing activities, but possibly a very small team as well. On top of a marketing manager, they have several other interns, including the position they were hiring me for. They have 14-days of AL, medical claim of $200 per calendar year. Possibly no performance bonus and AWS (still clarifying with the hiring manager). However, hearing the job scope really excited me because it was a new industry + more learning opportunities. Downside is that my superior may not have the relevant job experience, hence it may be a one-man show. During the interview, she did assured me that plans would be more structured and they do have external support from agencies, whenever needed. Similar to my current job, I would be required to work during my off-days, but the hiring manager said that it would be once a year, and the contract also indicated that the company, at it's discretion, may provide off-in-lieu (but no OT pay).
I am quite new to the job market so I wanted to ask if there are any inputs you guys might have pertaining to this. Would really appreciate any advice/tips that can help me to make a more informed decision. Thank you in advance!
2024.05.19 10:18 Specific-Volume5652 My experience with a PTSD spouse
I (M42) and my spouse (F40)
I just had the shock of my life, and possibly the most dramatic upheaval imaginable. I'm scared, concerned and i wonder if anyone else has a similar experience. This is concerning my soon to be ex-wife. Not an easy read or even to type, but strap yourselves in. We were married for 13 years, had known each other for 23. She was a child that grew up in a war in her home country, and was effected by it more than she let on. During the last 4 years of our relationship, she started developing incredible anxiety and depression. She would become like an exposed nerve, and every perceived slight became something she would ruminate on for days at a time. We had some events in our marriage that were incredibly stressful. Our son was born prematurely, our daughter when she was born was also traumatic. She was always highly strung when i knew her. i was very much the calming influence to her and it was a role that developed in our dynamic. i would be her rock and safe place. Things started to change, and dramatically so. I travel with work and she would look after the kids. i would be home large parts of the year, but i would have to go away sometimes for 4 weeks at a time. When covid hit, we were both home for a better part of 18 months, and i started to notice things that concerned me. She began to become incredibly paranoid about neighbours. She was certain they were spyi ng on us somehow (even though they were 80, and not at all interested in us). This spiraled from the neighbours commenting on the length of our grass. It effected her, and she became fixated. Any new neighbours she instantly distrusted, and she believed they all spoke badly of her.none of it was true, but in her state of hypervigilance, she was misinterpreting signs. A strange look, or half glance was enough to make her feel unsafe and scared. This slowly devolved into her being fearful of being spied on in the shower, people who walked dogs the same time each morning past our house were doing it to spy on us, etc. I could see it was draining her, and making her very ill with stress so we discussed maybe going to therapy, which she did. During the years we were together, she had been on various anti-depressants to cope with depression. I always chalked it down to post natal depression and the stress being a mother brought to her, especially when i went away. She attended therapy, but would stop when it became uncomfortable. She then opened up to me one day regarding it. It turns out that she was molested as a child by a family friend, and had buried it. that coupled with seeing her childhood friend die from an explosion (which i knew about) had effected her more than we knew. The therapy seemed to make it worse, and since that point things took a massive nose dive. She was an incredibly bubbly, happy and cheerful person to everyone. or so i thought. She would sometimes drop the mask at home, and i could see the turmoil developing. I hate to admit it, but i was blind to it for many years. she had masked it from the very beginning. Her paranoia got worse and worse. she came off of her antidepressants and started using weed vape pens to be able to cope with the incredible anxiety. I watched her drift apart from me over the last two years, her kindness towards me vanishing and almost a resentment towards me. She would complain about the new house we had bought and that she hated it because of the neighbours. We discussed moving, but she realised in her more lucid times that the issue would follow her whereever she went. The last year together she would speak about moving to another country. I said i would, but after my parents, who are old, passed. i didn't want them to not see our children in their final years. We had grown apart, she had this strange push-pull dynamic with me. One day she'd love me and be this caring person, the next cold and distant. I tried incredibly hard to pull us back together whilst dealing with her delusions of paranoia that were still ongoing, but the more i tried (and at some points i was quite combative and forceful) to get her to communicate, the more she pulled away. There was hardly any intimacy, which i yearned for and would comment on. She would initiate it sometimes, but for me, i'm ashamed to say, i complained about it a lot. She would have sex with me on occasion, and then if we argued later say "i didn't really want sex, it was like rape". This hurt me to my core, and made me bitter about how we were. The arguments became worse and worse. She started resenting me for trapping her. That was her reality. i had trapped her in the relationship. It wasn't true, but she was upset i travelled with work and could escape when she couldn't. It was never escape for me, i travelled because i had to. Her and the kids were all i wanted to be with. Travel to me was a chore.
Slowly she withdrew more. The more i tried to help and talk, the more she withdrew. All the time she was still paranoid, and now believed the neighbours were spying on her with cameras in the garden. the "cameras" were garden lights.
After three years of constant paranoia and her anxiety, it was starting to effect me. We couldn't go out in the area as she hated the neighbours. Yet to their faces she was bubbly and happy, smiley and almost overly kind. Yet when we were alone, the mask would slip and all her thoughts about them would spill out. Our social life started to be affected,
Anything i said was misunderstood or taken in such a way that i was insulting her. If i said she was silly for thinking in a certain way, i was calling her stupid. Anytime i tried to logic something out with her regarding the neighbours (for example she believed they were watching her shower) it was dismissed. I actually showered and told her to ask if she could see me from the garden. She was confused when she saw she couldn't.
The delusions became worse, and she became more and more paranoid. The textured glass in the bathroom was the wrong way around in her eyes, so people could see in. The motion activated light at the bottom of the garden was a camera, for sure. things like this.She withdrew more and more. I had to go away on a work trip, and the day before i left she asked for a divorce. I was hurt, but said "we can talk about it when i get home" when i arrived at the destination i was working across the world, i messaged her. No response. I tried multiple times until eventually i got a text "The kids will be taken away from me, and i will be sent back to my home country" I rang my father who lived very close to us to find out what was happening.
She had asked him to take her to the police station. She said to report the neighbours for spying, which she did try to do. they obviously didn't listen. She was taken to hospital by my father as she was having a mental breakdown and behaving strangely. I told my boss i had to fly home as something was happening. he booked me the earliest flight and i flew back. I was arrested from the plane. She had accused me of Rape, Control and coercion and ABH. Things i would never do. I was arrested, questioned and told not to go back to my home or to contact her. In one day i lost everything. I was in shock and was an emotional wreck. Worst of all i was concerned and scared for my wife and kids. She blamed me for her emotional state. said i had caused everything and had abused her constantly for years. After a week of staying at my friends house, social services got involved as the kids were missing school. It turns out she was taking the kids to hotels because she was terrified of staying at home. The kids told me later that "mummy thinks men are after her" instead of telling any authorities this, she said it was because she was scared of me. Social services believed everything she said. I was under investigation for the allegations, although not charged. The investigations were ongoing for three months, and in that time i wasn't allowed to contact her at all. Unfortunately in my fear i contacted her repeatedly. She had me arrested for harassment, and i was charged and convicted. I wasn't ever abusive in the texts, but i did contact her a lot.
I secured access to my children through a rushed family court order. I also placed a block on her leaving the country without seeking my permission with the children, as she had taken my passport details to apply for the kids passports without my knowledge. I did this due to her erratic behaviour and i knew she wasn't stable. My father thought i'd over-reacted, but my ex was so good at masking she hid how she really felt even to him. Oscar level masking.
Looking back i realise how bad it was. She ran from her home country at 18 and always ran. she always wanted to move jobs if something went wrong. She would cut off long term friends in an instant if she felt any pressure form them. Her first instinct would always be to flee anything. Any littlle insignificant thing or slight would become something she'd chew over for weeks, often applying the worst case scenario that would then become her reality. The truth was she was constantly afraid. I think at the end i became something she was afraid of too. My determination to keep us together and keep her from falling apart became too much for her. I wasn't always kind and was exasperated a lot. I was too demanding on someone that was exhausted, anxious and clearly unwell. Unfortunately i didn't realise this until too late. I still see the children, but have zero contact with her. She filed a restraining order due to the harassment conviction which i will adhere to. I'm currently going through family court again to secure further rights. She applied for full custody and has said some very terrible untruthful things at court to almost destroy me and remove me from her life. I'm a broken man because of it all, but staying strong for the kids.
I hope there will be some sort of resolution in the future, but i realise that she's scared of me now as she is scared of everything. She told me near the end that she trusts nobody. This broke my heart. The court on the last visit realised that something wasn't right. they have ordered a investigation into our family, and it will hopefully be reported in June when we go back to court. Her medical documents have been re-visited and statements taken. My father witnessed some very strange behaviour and has reported it. We just have to see what happens. She has requested to sell the property we lived in, and i'm slowly watching the life we built implode. She also has asked for the order that stipulates the need for permission to leave the country lifted. June will be the crunch time.
submitted by Specific-Volume5652 to CPTSD [link] [comments]
I just had the shock of my life, and possibly the most dramatic upheaval imaginable. I'm scared, concerned and i wonder if anyone else has a similar experience. This is concerning my soon to be ex-wife. Not an easy read or even to type, but strap yourselves in. We were married for 13 years, had known each other for 23. She was a child that grew up in a war in her home country, and was effected by it more than she let on. During the last 4 years of our relationship, she started developing incredible anxiety and depression. She would become like an exposed nerve, and every perceived slight became something she would ruminate on for days at a time. We had some events in our marriage that were incredibly stressful. Our son was born prematurely, our daughter when she was born was also traumatic. She was always highly strung when i knew her. i was very much the calming influence to her and it was a role that developed in our dynamic. i would be her rock and safe place. Things started to change, and dramatically so. I travel with work and she would look after the kids. i would be home large parts of the year, but i would have to go away sometimes for 4 weeks at a time. When covid hit, we were both home for a better part of 18 months, and i started to notice things that concerned me. She began to become incredibly paranoid about neighbours. She was certain they were spyi ng on us somehow (even though they were 80, and not at all interested in us). This spiraled from the neighbours commenting on the length of our grass. It effected her, and she became fixated. Any new neighbours she instantly distrusted, and she believed they all spoke badly of her.none of it was true, but in her state of hypervigilance, she was misinterpreting signs. A strange look, or half glance was enough to make her feel unsafe and scared. This slowly devolved into her being fearful of being spied on in the shower, people who walked dogs the same time each morning past our house were doing it to spy on us, etc. I could see it was draining her, and making her very ill with stress so we discussed maybe going to therapy, which she did. During the years we were together, she had been on various anti-depressants to cope with depression. I always chalked it down to post natal depression and the stress being a mother brought to her, especially when i went away. She attended therapy, but would stop when it became uncomfortable. She then opened up to me one day regarding it. It turns out that she was molested as a child by a family friend, and had buried it. that coupled with seeing her childhood friend die from an explosion (which i knew about) had effected her more than we knew. The therapy seemed to make it worse, and since that point things took a massive nose dive. She was an incredibly bubbly, happy and cheerful person to everyone. or so i thought. She would sometimes drop the mask at home, and i could see the turmoil developing. I hate to admit it, but i was blind to it for many years. she had masked it from the very beginning. Her paranoia got worse and worse. she came off of her antidepressants and started using weed vape pens to be able to cope with the incredible anxiety. I watched her drift apart from me over the last two years, her kindness towards me vanishing and almost a resentment towards me. She would complain about the new house we had bought and that she hated it because of the neighbours. We discussed moving, but she realised in her more lucid times that the issue would follow her whereever she went. The last year together she would speak about moving to another country. I said i would, but after my parents, who are old, passed. i didn't want them to not see our children in their final years. We had grown apart, she had this strange push-pull dynamic with me. One day she'd love me and be this caring person, the next cold and distant. I tried incredibly hard to pull us back together whilst dealing with her delusions of paranoia that were still ongoing, but the more i tried (and at some points i was quite combative and forceful) to get her to communicate, the more she pulled away. There was hardly any intimacy, which i yearned for and would comment on. She would initiate it sometimes, but for me, i'm ashamed to say, i complained about it a lot. She would have sex with me on occasion, and then if we argued later say "i didn't really want sex, it was like rape". This hurt me to my core, and made me bitter about how we were. The arguments became worse and worse. She started resenting me for trapping her. That was her reality. i had trapped her in the relationship. It wasn't true, but she was upset i travelled with work and could escape when she couldn't. It was never escape for me, i travelled because i had to. Her and the kids were all i wanted to be with. Travel to me was a chore.
Slowly she withdrew more. The more i tried to help and talk, the more she withdrew. All the time she was still paranoid, and now believed the neighbours were spying on her with cameras in the garden. the "cameras" were garden lights.
After three years of constant paranoia and her anxiety, it was starting to effect me. We couldn't go out in the area as she hated the neighbours. Yet to their faces she was bubbly and happy, smiley and almost overly kind. Yet when we were alone, the mask would slip and all her thoughts about them would spill out. Our social life started to be affected,
Anything i said was misunderstood or taken in such a way that i was insulting her. If i said she was silly for thinking in a certain way, i was calling her stupid. Anytime i tried to logic something out with her regarding the neighbours (for example she believed they were watching her shower) it was dismissed. I actually showered and told her to ask if she could see me from the garden. She was confused when she saw she couldn't.
The delusions became worse, and she became more and more paranoid. The textured glass in the bathroom was the wrong way around in her eyes, so people could see in. The motion activated light at the bottom of the garden was a camera, for sure. things like this.She withdrew more and more. I had to go away on a work trip, and the day before i left she asked for a divorce. I was hurt, but said "we can talk about it when i get home" when i arrived at the destination i was working across the world, i messaged her. No response. I tried multiple times until eventually i got a text "The kids will be taken away from me, and i will be sent back to my home country" I rang my father who lived very close to us to find out what was happening.
She had asked him to take her to the police station. She said to report the neighbours for spying, which she did try to do. they obviously didn't listen. She was taken to hospital by my father as she was having a mental breakdown and behaving strangely. I told my boss i had to fly home as something was happening. he booked me the earliest flight and i flew back. I was arrested from the plane. She had accused me of Rape, Control and coercion and ABH. Things i would never do. I was arrested, questioned and told not to go back to my home or to contact her. In one day i lost everything. I was in shock and was an emotional wreck. Worst of all i was concerned and scared for my wife and kids. She blamed me for her emotional state. said i had caused everything and had abused her constantly for years. After a week of staying at my friends house, social services got involved as the kids were missing school. It turns out she was taking the kids to hotels because she was terrified of staying at home. The kids told me later that "mummy thinks men are after her" instead of telling any authorities this, she said it was because she was scared of me. Social services believed everything she said. I was under investigation for the allegations, although not charged. The investigations were ongoing for three months, and in that time i wasn't allowed to contact her at all. Unfortunately in my fear i contacted her repeatedly. She had me arrested for harassment, and i was charged and convicted. I wasn't ever abusive in the texts, but i did contact her a lot.
I secured access to my children through a rushed family court order. I also placed a block on her leaving the country without seeking my permission with the children, as she had taken my passport details to apply for the kids passports without my knowledge. I did this due to her erratic behaviour and i knew she wasn't stable. My father thought i'd over-reacted, but my ex was so good at masking she hid how she really felt even to him. Oscar level masking.
Looking back i realise how bad it was. She ran from her home country at 18 and always ran. she always wanted to move jobs if something went wrong. She would cut off long term friends in an instant if she felt any pressure form them. Her first instinct would always be to flee anything. Any littlle insignificant thing or slight would become something she'd chew over for weeks, often applying the worst case scenario that would then become her reality. The truth was she was constantly afraid. I think at the end i became something she was afraid of too. My determination to keep us together and keep her from falling apart became too much for her. I wasn't always kind and was exasperated a lot. I was too demanding on someone that was exhausted, anxious and clearly unwell. Unfortunately i didn't realise this until too late. I still see the children, but have zero contact with her. She filed a restraining order due to the harassment conviction which i will adhere to. I'm currently going through family court again to secure further rights. She applied for full custody and has said some very terrible untruthful things at court to almost destroy me and remove me from her life. I'm a broken man because of it all, but staying strong for the kids.
I hope there will be some sort of resolution in the future, but i realise that she's scared of me now as she is scared of everything. She told me near the end that she trusts nobody. This broke my heart. The court on the last visit realised that something wasn't right. they have ordered a investigation into our family, and it will hopefully be reported in June when we go back to court. Her medical documents have been re-visited and statements taken. My father witnessed some very strange behaviour and has reported it. We just have to see what happens. She has requested to sell the property we lived in, and i'm slowly watching the life we built implode. She also has asked for the order that stipulates the need for permission to leave the country lifted. June will be the crunch time.
2024.05.19 10:14 rnbwdemon Candida infection
34 AFAB 183lbs 5'4"
For the past 6-7 weeks, I've been dealing with what my PCP diagnosed as Candida Albicans infection. It started around the anal area. It has now moved to the entire genital area (vaginal and anal), under both arms, inside and outside my right ear, my stomach, neck, and face [also, both forearms, top of the right hand, , and moving down both upper thighs]. I've taken 4 doses of Fluconazole and treat with Nystatin cream twice a day. I'm taking daily showers or a 15-20 minute bath with Domeboro soak. Nothing is working, I'm in extreme pain, and I would appreciate some guidance.
Other relevant information:
Pregnancy w/ vaginal birth 12 years ago.
PCOS w/ metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance 7 years ago. Taking 1500 MG Metformin daily.
GSHV2 9 years ago. Taking 500 MG Valtrex daily.
Depression/Anxiety. Taking Lexapro.
ADHD-Inattentive. Taking 40 MG Vyvanse.
Other supplements: Magnesium glyconate (sleep), prenatal multivitamin (low Vitamin D and Iron in the past).
Former cigarette smoker. Current vape user.
No new sexual partners in the last 5 years. No new soaps, detergents, etc.
The amount of pain I'm in is just miserable. I've been trying to follow my PCP's instructions to the letter, but nothing is working. I can barely walk around my house at this point and it's interfering with my job and being able to take care of my kid who was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes this past year and may have celiac's disease. I may just be impatient to have this clear up and I know my PCP has given what's considered the gold standard for Candida skin infections. I'll be talking to her on Monday about seeing a dermatologist.
My questions:
Has anyone seen this situation in their practice before?
What are the next steps usually taken?
How can I stop it from spreading further?
Is there any possibility the infection could have gotten into my bloodstream (I started having headaches, chills, fatigue, abnormal amount of gas, and dizziness w/in the last 3 days)?
Is there some way to get some relief or speed up the healing process?
Are there any best practices for this type of infection besides keeping it clean, dry, and medicated?
Would anything described warrant a trip to the ER (asking bc my partner has been very worried about me and has mentioned it several times)?
Thank you for any feedback.
Edit: Formatting since I'm on mobile and additional observations from tonight's bathing and applying medicated cream included in [ ].
submitted by rnbwdemon to AskDocs [link] [comments]
For the past 6-7 weeks, I've been dealing with what my PCP diagnosed as Candida Albicans infection. It started around the anal area. It has now moved to the entire genital area (vaginal and anal), under both arms, inside and outside my right ear, my stomach, neck, and face [also, both forearms, top of the right hand, , and moving down both upper thighs]. I've taken 4 doses of Fluconazole and treat with Nystatin cream twice a day. I'm taking daily showers or a 15-20 minute bath with Domeboro soak. Nothing is working, I'm in extreme pain, and I would appreciate some guidance.
Other relevant information:
Pregnancy w/ vaginal birth 12 years ago.
PCOS w/ metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance 7 years ago. Taking 1500 MG Metformin daily.
GSHV2 9 years ago. Taking 500 MG Valtrex daily.
Depression/Anxiety. Taking Lexapro.
ADHD-Inattentive. Taking 40 MG Vyvanse.
Other supplements: Magnesium glyconate (sleep), prenatal multivitamin (low Vitamin D and Iron in the past).
Former cigarette smoker. Current vape user.
No new sexual partners in the last 5 years. No new soaps, detergents, etc.
The amount of pain I'm in is just miserable. I've been trying to follow my PCP's instructions to the letter, but nothing is working. I can barely walk around my house at this point and it's interfering with my job and being able to take care of my kid who was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes this past year and may have celiac's disease. I may just be impatient to have this clear up and I know my PCP has given what's considered the gold standard for Candida skin infections. I'll be talking to her on Monday about seeing a dermatologist.
My questions:
Has anyone seen this situation in their practice before?
What are the next steps usually taken?
How can I stop it from spreading further?
Is there any possibility the infection could have gotten into my bloodstream (I started having headaches, chills, fatigue, abnormal amount of gas, and dizziness w/in the last 3 days)?
Is there some way to get some relief or speed up the healing process?
Are there any best practices for this type of infection besides keeping it clean, dry, and medicated?
Would anything described warrant a trip to the ER (asking bc my partner has been very worried about me and has mentioned it several times)?
Thank you for any feedback.
Edit: Formatting since I'm on mobile and additional observations from tonight's bathing and applying medicated cream included in [ ].
2024.05.19 10:01 JustaCatChick My roommate is my aunt and she’s becoming difficult and starting to slowly charge me more.
My aunt F(40) and I F(25) agreed to both get an apartment with both of our names on the lease. She was in a rush to get an apartment as she had just had a divorce, and I wanted my own place after moving out of my boyfriend’s parent’s house.
She was in a rush to sign the papers and move in because she had nowhere else to go. Her sister (my other aunt) allowed her to live in her house rent free for a couple months before she needed to look for a place. So once she found out, I was breaking up she took it as an opportunity to get a roommate.
I feel like me being naïve and new to the lease signing process was seen as an opportunity to take advantage. The day of signing the lease they told us that we couldn’t view the unit because it wasn’t ready and I told her that I didn’t sign it because I don’t know what the condition is but she insisted that we do and that we can fix it later, so I did trusting her.
Once we move in, it’s a very old department and we are paying roughly 1,500 in rent. It’s a two bed two bath. It comes with the garage for a single car, which she has claimed since she pays more. She has the master bedroom with a standup shower and a bathtub as well as “his and her sink”. I have the guest restroom, which is just a simple small bathroom with a tub shower, toilet and sink.
Initially, the agreement was the I pay a portion of the rent, electricity and Internet. Her mother, which is my grandmother was trying to help us get us into our own place so sent her $5000 which was supposed to be divided by two which would give $2500 to her and $2500 to me. I didn’t know about this until recently as she hid it and was acting like it was given to her for months, and even made it seem like she was being nice by helping me out since I couldn’t afford some stuff during she furniture shopping. So when we went shopping for the apartment, I tried to help pay for half of groceries and little furnishings that I could afford out of my pocket. When it came to picking out couches, she made it seem like a very carefree experience (not paying attending to price) and was looking for a very big couch that was lavish and when I told her I couldn’t afford it, she said don’t worry Grandmother is helping us out. (but we’re just spending my portion of the money on the couch she wanted) If I had known that MY money was going towards that couch, I would’ve definitely chose a cheaper one and put more thought into selecting it.
I had a gut feeling about the spending and asked my grandmother about the “help she gave us”, she told me the truth: that $2500 should have gone to me, and she’s sorry that she didn’t clarify it soon as she sent it. She thought my aunt would’ve done the right thing and give it to me to help me purchase my furniture for my room. Later she went shopping for a brand new mattress and began shopping for more furniture and decor. Meanwhile, my room is full of free furniture that is used and that I’ve gotten from family members storage and IKEA furniture that I bought out of my own pocket.
I am a full-time student, receiving assistance from the gov receiving 1400/month as a Veterans dependent. And I also do commissions on the side to make extra money. So I live very frugally naturally and am a minimalist tbh and yes I CAN afford bills and own groceries. I’ll also watch all her animals while she’s out of town for free (2 cats and 1 dog). I only have one cat and often clean the whole apartment, including helping her with her laundry that sits in the washedryer. Since i see it as a contribution and helping her out.
The agreement has changed in the past four months that I’ve lived with her. We are 4 months into a 14 month lease. She pays $1200 a month for rent, I am responsible for everything else. That being: whatever is left of rent, water, electricity, Internet, and I have to pay for my own parking every month at the apartment we stay (she gets garage so she doesn’t have to pay parking)
Lately she’s been asking me if I’m going to get a job and to start contributing more towards the rent, which caught me off guard as I thought we had already come to an agreement on the rent/bills situation before signing the lease and revisiting about a month ago. Right now I’m roughly paying $600-$700 in utilities and rent combined. If it gets more expensive and bills go up I am responsible for the overages and she seems to like to leave the AC low and lights on. She’ll leave her clothes in the washer and forget to throw them in the dryer and end up washing them again. The same thing with the dryer. Even if it’s dry she’ll, have to redry it to “freshen it up”.
I’m also probably undiagnosed OCD, my only complaint to her is to be clean and at least keep common areas tidy. She likes to leave things in the sink overnight, dump her weeks worth of coffee cups that she brings from work in the sink and leave them for hours. Her dog will pee around the apartment and I find it after it dries up and becomes sticky after I step in it. I’ve mentioned these issues before, but she seems to shrug them off and give me excuses.
I’ll leave for days at a time and give her a notice on when I leave and come back because I know I am leaving my cat with her, but I make sure he always has food and I come by and check on him, clean litter box and tidy up around the place if I’m staying at my boyfriends, which is only 20 minutes away. She complain the fact that I’m gone too long. And when I’m at the apartment, it seems to bother her that I do school from home and can work from home doing commissions. I’m an introvert.
She is a shopping addict and is in debt and also runs a business that is in the red, she has no children and she seems to be living above what she can afford. Her ex husband is needing help financially and I think it’s affecting her financially. In the end she’s asking for me to help her as she is struggling with her lifestyle, relationship, and business.
Some people might say that my situation isn’t that bad or that I’m overthinking, but since this is a family member, it’s hard to set boundaries as well as stand up for myself when I respect her as an aunt.
She’s came to me offering to help me in the beginning when I was looking for a place and now it seems like a trap. My parents asked me to move back in so that I could save money and avoid rent but she said if I move out I’m fully responsible for breaking the lease or paying for her to downsize into a single bed room unit, which would be $1300 in fees or more. I want to stand my ground since my name is on that lease and we made an agreement. I’m frustrated and really need advice. Am I wrong, should I help more or is she just taking advantage.
submitted by JustaCatChick to badroommates [link] [comments]
She was in a rush to sign the papers and move in because she had nowhere else to go. Her sister (my other aunt) allowed her to live in her house rent free for a couple months before she needed to look for a place. So once she found out, I was breaking up she took it as an opportunity to get a roommate.
I feel like me being naïve and new to the lease signing process was seen as an opportunity to take advantage. The day of signing the lease they told us that we couldn’t view the unit because it wasn’t ready and I told her that I didn’t sign it because I don’t know what the condition is but she insisted that we do and that we can fix it later, so I did trusting her.
Once we move in, it’s a very old department and we are paying roughly 1,500 in rent. It’s a two bed two bath. It comes with the garage for a single car, which she has claimed since she pays more. She has the master bedroom with a standup shower and a bathtub as well as “his and her sink”. I have the guest restroom, which is just a simple small bathroom with a tub shower, toilet and sink.
Initially, the agreement was the I pay a portion of the rent, electricity and Internet. Her mother, which is my grandmother was trying to help us get us into our own place so sent her $5000 which was supposed to be divided by two which would give $2500 to her and $2500 to me. I didn’t know about this until recently as she hid it and was acting like it was given to her for months, and even made it seem like she was being nice by helping me out since I couldn’t afford some stuff during she furniture shopping. So when we went shopping for the apartment, I tried to help pay for half of groceries and little furnishings that I could afford out of my pocket. When it came to picking out couches, she made it seem like a very carefree experience (not paying attending to price) and was looking for a very big couch that was lavish and when I told her I couldn’t afford it, she said don’t worry Grandmother is helping us out. (but we’re just spending my portion of the money on the couch she wanted) If I had known that MY money was going towards that couch, I would’ve definitely chose a cheaper one and put more thought into selecting it.
I had a gut feeling about the spending and asked my grandmother about the “help she gave us”, she told me the truth: that $2500 should have gone to me, and she’s sorry that she didn’t clarify it soon as she sent it. She thought my aunt would’ve done the right thing and give it to me to help me purchase my furniture for my room. Later she went shopping for a brand new mattress and began shopping for more furniture and decor. Meanwhile, my room is full of free furniture that is used and that I’ve gotten from family members storage and IKEA furniture that I bought out of my own pocket.
I am a full-time student, receiving assistance from the gov receiving 1400/month as a Veterans dependent. And I also do commissions on the side to make extra money. So I live very frugally naturally and am a minimalist tbh and yes I CAN afford bills and own groceries. I’ll also watch all her animals while she’s out of town for free (2 cats and 1 dog). I only have one cat and often clean the whole apartment, including helping her with her laundry that sits in the washedryer. Since i see it as a contribution and helping her out.
The agreement has changed in the past four months that I’ve lived with her. We are 4 months into a 14 month lease. She pays $1200 a month for rent, I am responsible for everything else. That being: whatever is left of rent, water, electricity, Internet, and I have to pay for my own parking every month at the apartment we stay (she gets garage so she doesn’t have to pay parking)
Lately she’s been asking me if I’m going to get a job and to start contributing more towards the rent, which caught me off guard as I thought we had already come to an agreement on the rent/bills situation before signing the lease and revisiting about a month ago. Right now I’m roughly paying $600-$700 in utilities and rent combined. If it gets more expensive and bills go up I am responsible for the overages and she seems to like to leave the AC low and lights on. She’ll leave her clothes in the washer and forget to throw them in the dryer and end up washing them again. The same thing with the dryer. Even if it’s dry she’ll, have to redry it to “freshen it up”.
I’m also probably undiagnosed OCD, my only complaint to her is to be clean and at least keep common areas tidy. She likes to leave things in the sink overnight, dump her weeks worth of coffee cups that she brings from work in the sink and leave them for hours. Her dog will pee around the apartment and I find it after it dries up and becomes sticky after I step in it. I’ve mentioned these issues before, but she seems to shrug them off and give me excuses.
I’ll leave for days at a time and give her a notice on when I leave and come back because I know I am leaving my cat with her, but I make sure he always has food and I come by and check on him, clean litter box and tidy up around the place if I’m staying at my boyfriends, which is only 20 minutes away. She complain the fact that I’m gone too long. And when I’m at the apartment, it seems to bother her that I do school from home and can work from home doing commissions. I’m an introvert.
She is a shopping addict and is in debt and also runs a business that is in the red, she has no children and she seems to be living above what she can afford. Her ex husband is needing help financially and I think it’s affecting her financially. In the end she’s asking for me to help her as she is struggling with her lifestyle, relationship, and business.
Some people might say that my situation isn’t that bad or that I’m overthinking, but since this is a family member, it’s hard to set boundaries as well as stand up for myself when I respect her as an aunt.
She’s came to me offering to help me in the beginning when I was looking for a place and now it seems like a trap. My parents asked me to move back in so that I could save money and avoid rent but she said if I move out I’m fully responsible for breaking the lease or paying for her to downsize into a single bed room unit, which would be $1300 in fees or more. I want to stand my ground since my name is on that lease and we made an agreement. I’m frustrated and really need advice. Am I wrong, should I help more or is she just taking advantage.
2024.05.19 10:00 AutoModerator Weekly Results Discussion 05/19 to 05/25
When you had positive results - you don’t need to leave the sub completely. We encourage members to stay – but in a supportive role!
You may be interested in posting at /whatworkedforme.
You are always encouraged to share your non-pregnancy-related infertility experiences with people asking questions on the sub and continue to support other community members here on infertility
submitted by AutoModerator to infertility [link] [comments]
WHAT THIS THREAD IS FOR:
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HELPFUL INFO
Click 'view table' on mobile:| For a comprehensive Beta database, check out http://www.betabase.info/ for more information on beta based on DPO (DPO = days post transfer + 3, or 5 day embryo; DPO = Days post Insemination for IUI). |
|---|
| Further info: Human chorionic gonadotropin as a predictor of outcome in assisted reproductive technology pregnancies00512-9/fulltext) |
| Radiopaedia on Fetal bradycardia |
| Normal Ranges of Embryonic Length, Embryonic Heart Rate PDF! |
You are always encouraged to share your non-pregnancy-related infertility experiences with people asking questions on the sub and continue to support other community members here on infertility
2024.05.19 09:51 Ok-Cow1646 What does this chest xray result mean?
26M Filipino/74kg/5’10.
I had PTB last 2014 and it was treated for 9 months and cleared. Everytime we had a annual medical exam, i’ll just tell the doctor that i had PTB then the result will be cleared.
I am now applying for a new job and told the doctor i had PTB last 2014 but the results are here:
1st xray - Apicolordotic view is suggested to further evaluate the left lung apex.
2nd xray (apicolordotic view) - There are opacities in the left upper lobe compatible with PTB
Is it possible that my PTB came back?
Thanks!
submitted by Ok-Cow1646 to AskDocs [link] [comments]
I had PTB last 2014 and it was treated for 9 months and cleared. Everytime we had a annual medical exam, i’ll just tell the doctor that i had PTB then the result will be cleared.
I am now applying for a new job and told the doctor i had PTB last 2014 but the results are here:
1st xray - Apicolordotic view is suggested to further evaluate the left lung apex.
2nd xray (apicolordotic view) - There are opacities in the left upper lobe compatible with PTB
Is it possible that my PTB came back?
Thanks!
2024.05.19 09:40 LiteratureOk3393 No training but getting into "trouble" for making mistakes?
I've just started a job in a new industry, I have experience in a role with some overlapping duties, however this is a completely different kettle of fish. It's an entry level position with growth into another role, however still comes with certain expectations and a specific way they want things done. It's come to my attention that I've misinterpreted my curent job roles expectations to a degree, and I believe it's due to lack of training and trying to interpret messages from a few different people. It's a small workplace with only a few employees.
I have been there less than a month and have gotten into "trouble" for mistakes or doing things incorrectly, or not in line with their way of doing things, on the daily... like not yelled at, but looked at and talked to as if I've stuffed up, however I have received basically no formal training, and barely any information or resources to assist in doing what they want me to do - or even not to do. I had someone sit next to me for a couple of hours once, yet I'm getting multiple visits to my desk each day to tell me I did something wrong or should go about something a different way. I'm all for constructive criticism and have taken it all so far (and there's been alot), but it's all seeming a little bit ridiculous to me at this point?
I'm on the verge of tears nearly every day at work and constantly thinking about it at home because I can't seem to do anything right - yet everyone is so busy (they are understaffed atm) they can't train me or provide me with a resource... although, I've noted they have time to talk to each other about my mistakes. I've had many other jobs over the last decade and I've never been in tears from them, so I don't feel I'm just overreacting anymore. These people are making me feel stupid AF. I dread going to work already.
I guess I was expecting a job shadow for a week or to be seated in a common area so I could ask questions and have them give me direct feedback rather than leaving me to my own devices then eavesdropping from another room and walking over to tell me things I've done wrong multiple times a day.
I was hired with the knowledge that I was new to the industry, I don't appreciate being thrown to the wolves if they're also going to b*tch about how I handle it.
submitted by LiteratureOk3393 to jobs [link] [comments]
I have been there less than a month and have gotten into "trouble" for mistakes or doing things incorrectly, or not in line with their way of doing things, on the daily... like not yelled at, but looked at and talked to as if I've stuffed up, however I have received basically no formal training, and barely any information or resources to assist in doing what they want me to do - or even not to do. I had someone sit next to me for a couple of hours once, yet I'm getting multiple visits to my desk each day to tell me I did something wrong or should go about something a different way. I'm all for constructive criticism and have taken it all so far (and there's been alot), but it's all seeming a little bit ridiculous to me at this point?
I'm on the verge of tears nearly every day at work and constantly thinking about it at home because I can't seem to do anything right - yet everyone is so busy (they are understaffed atm) they can't train me or provide me with a resource... although, I've noted they have time to talk to each other about my mistakes. I've had many other jobs over the last decade and I've never been in tears from them, so I don't feel I'm just overreacting anymore. These people are making me feel stupid AF. I dread going to work already.
I guess I was expecting a job shadow for a week or to be seated in a common area so I could ask questions and have them give me direct feedback rather than leaving me to my own devices then eavesdropping from another room and walking over to tell me things I've done wrong multiple times a day.
I was hired with the knowledge that I was new to the industry, I don't appreciate being thrown to the wolves if they're also going to b*tch about how I handle it.
2024.05.19 09:31 Thezoomerdoomer69 Making up for lost time
I will try to make this short so that maybe more people will read. I am 25m about to turn 26 currently living with my mom, and working as a line cook at a corporate diner (in a shift lead position) I have wasted all my years since graduating high school because of mental health issues, stupidity, and laziness. However, in that time I have been able to save 135,000 dollars. I also served in the army for two years but was medically discharged. Becasue of this I have access to GI bill benefits (VA will pay for school), so I am thinking of going to college, because I want a career that can provide me enough money and stability to live on my own comfortably. I can't rely on my poor mother forever.
I am obviously feeling VERY behind in life. I know I am still in my twenties, but it seems like employers will start to look down on people who are 30 and just barely graduated college and are looking for a career. It seems like they would ask "wtf have you been doing for the past 10 years?" So, I am trying to find a path that would be the most efficient and effective for my goals. I don't want to waste anymore time. I have been debating a degree in either information systems or enviromental engineering. I think I would be more interested in enviromental engineering, but information systems seems to be better paying and more growth projected in the next 10 years as far as new jobs. But I am terrified of graduating and not being able to find a good job. Then I will be 30 ( or older), my savings will be eaten into as a result of having to live on my own and getting through school, and I will feel even worse than I do now. I have been suicidal three times in my life and it is a terrible feeling I'm working hard to avoid feeling again.
In short, if you were trying to find a good career efficiently as possible, is college the best option? Or something else? If you have access to free college should you just do it anyways?
Thank you in advance anyone who responds.
submitted by Thezoomerdoomer69 to findapath [link] [comments]
I am obviously feeling VERY behind in life. I know I am still in my twenties, but it seems like employers will start to look down on people who are 30 and just barely graduated college and are looking for a career. It seems like they would ask "wtf have you been doing for the past 10 years?" So, I am trying to find a path that would be the most efficient and effective for my goals. I don't want to waste anymore time. I have been debating a degree in either information systems or enviromental engineering. I think I would be more interested in enviromental engineering, but information systems seems to be better paying and more growth projected in the next 10 years as far as new jobs. But I am terrified of graduating and not being able to find a good job. Then I will be 30 ( or older), my savings will be eaten into as a result of having to live on my own and getting through school, and I will feel even worse than I do now. I have been suicidal three times in my life and it is a terrible feeling I'm working hard to avoid feeling again.
In short, if you were trying to find a good career efficiently as possible, is college the best option? Or something else? If you have access to free college should you just do it anyways?
Thank you in advance anyone who responds.
2024.05.19 09:30 beeby8 I need help if anyone is willing to listen.
Hi everyone.
My name is Isaac. I am 26 years old and I live in Frankston, Victoria.
For almost the past decade (ever since leaving high school), I have gone back and forth between being employed in work and job hunting both in person and online and I am honestly so sick of it. It has severely impacted my mental health when 95% or more of the jobs that you apply for you either never hear back from or if you do, you are just told that you were unsuccessful with no reason given as to why. It really makes you feel like you are worthless and they don;t even give you any constructive criticism as to what you can do to improve for the next job that you go for. And somehow, doing it is even worse in person when you physically hand someone a resume, then turn around as you're leaving the store to watch them literally throw it in the garbage.
As far as the jobs I HAVE had in the last 10 years, I have done everything from call center work to delivery driving to factory work to a little bit of retail and tons of other stuff that I can't even think of right now.
Those were just the jobs that I had though. As far as what I specialize in, my last two jobs were working for Telstra selling phones and mobile/internet plans in an actual store and Aussie Broadband in their Residential Customer Service department. I was let go from Telstra after 6 months because I wasn't meeting their incredibly unrealistic KPI's for such a tiny store and I voluntarily left Aussie because several of my supervisors and managers there were not treating me very well. I did actually enjoy doing both jobs however as it was in a field and an area that I actually have an interest in, that being the internet and technology in general.
As for what I want to do next, I recently applied for a job as a field service technician for the NBN doing Fibre to the Premises upgrades in peoples homes which I already know alot about as I dealt with the NBN pretty much on a daily basis both at Telstra and Aussie Broadband.
Just a little bit about me personally though, I do happen to have Asperger's Syndrome and ADHD. I was diagnosed with both in my early primary school years and even though the conditions affected me far more and worse in my primary and high school years, it doesn't as much anymore, although it still does occasionally. I still do suffer from anxiety and depression every now and then and have the odd panic attack here and there too. I am not medicated for it the way I used to be when I was in school because I feel like I can fight it on my own with regular therapy sessions. I also did not like who I was when I was heavily dosed on so much medication. It turned me into a zombie like robot and took away everything that made me who I am as a person.
Because of this, I also have to be linked with a disability employment agency and I have been through so many of them in the last 10 years as well and the majority of them are garbage who don't care about you at all and just see you as a number, not a person. All they care about is getting you into any random job as quickly as they can without worrying about if its actually suitable for you or if you'll just be gone from there in a month or two.
I also have a physical medical condition where I had to have an operation to repair a serious hernia that I had. The operation was just over a year ago and while I am pretty much fully recovered from it now, it has started to come back, meaning that I will have to have another surgery in a few years, depending on how long it takes for it to fully return. It's only had a partial resurgence so far. This means that I can't do any physically demanding job (like a trade for example) that would only increase the rate at which the hernia comes back fully.
So why am I writing this? Basically, I have honestly tried everything that I can to try and find long term employment in a job and an area where I can grow my skills, meet new people and have financial security and independence. So I am appealing to my community to see if anyone can help me. If anyone is hiring or knows someone who is hiring who is looking for someone like me in an area that would suit me. If you do, please get in touch with me by messaging me directly on Reddit through the DM feature and if you have something for me, we can exchange more private contact details and go from there.
Thank you for taking the time to read all of this if you made it this far. I really appreciate it.
submitted by beeby8 to melbourne [link] [comments]
My name is Isaac. I am 26 years old and I live in Frankston, Victoria.
For almost the past decade (ever since leaving high school), I have gone back and forth between being employed in work and job hunting both in person and online and I am honestly so sick of it. It has severely impacted my mental health when 95% or more of the jobs that you apply for you either never hear back from or if you do, you are just told that you were unsuccessful with no reason given as to why. It really makes you feel like you are worthless and they don;t even give you any constructive criticism as to what you can do to improve for the next job that you go for. And somehow, doing it is even worse in person when you physically hand someone a resume, then turn around as you're leaving the store to watch them literally throw it in the garbage.
As far as the jobs I HAVE had in the last 10 years, I have done everything from call center work to delivery driving to factory work to a little bit of retail and tons of other stuff that I can't even think of right now.
Those were just the jobs that I had though. As far as what I specialize in, my last two jobs were working for Telstra selling phones and mobile/internet plans in an actual store and Aussie Broadband in their Residential Customer Service department. I was let go from Telstra after 6 months because I wasn't meeting their incredibly unrealistic KPI's for such a tiny store and I voluntarily left Aussie because several of my supervisors and managers there were not treating me very well. I did actually enjoy doing both jobs however as it was in a field and an area that I actually have an interest in, that being the internet and technology in general.
As for what I want to do next, I recently applied for a job as a field service technician for the NBN doing Fibre to the Premises upgrades in peoples homes which I already know alot about as I dealt with the NBN pretty much on a daily basis both at Telstra and Aussie Broadband.
Just a little bit about me personally though, I do happen to have Asperger's Syndrome and ADHD. I was diagnosed with both in my early primary school years and even though the conditions affected me far more and worse in my primary and high school years, it doesn't as much anymore, although it still does occasionally. I still do suffer from anxiety and depression every now and then and have the odd panic attack here and there too. I am not medicated for it the way I used to be when I was in school because I feel like I can fight it on my own with regular therapy sessions. I also did not like who I was when I was heavily dosed on so much medication. It turned me into a zombie like robot and took away everything that made me who I am as a person.
Because of this, I also have to be linked with a disability employment agency and I have been through so many of them in the last 10 years as well and the majority of them are garbage who don't care about you at all and just see you as a number, not a person. All they care about is getting you into any random job as quickly as they can without worrying about if its actually suitable for you or if you'll just be gone from there in a month or two.
I also have a physical medical condition where I had to have an operation to repair a serious hernia that I had. The operation was just over a year ago and while I am pretty much fully recovered from it now, it has started to come back, meaning that I will have to have another surgery in a few years, depending on how long it takes for it to fully return. It's only had a partial resurgence so far. This means that I can't do any physically demanding job (like a trade for example) that would only increase the rate at which the hernia comes back fully.
So why am I writing this? Basically, I have honestly tried everything that I can to try and find long term employment in a job and an area where I can grow my skills, meet new people and have financial security and independence. So I am appealing to my community to see if anyone can help me. If anyone is hiring or knows someone who is hiring who is looking for someone like me in an area that would suit me. If you do, please get in touch with me by messaging me directly on Reddit through the DM feature and if you have something for me, we can exchange more private contact details and go from there.
Thank you for taking the time to read all of this if you made it this far. I really appreciate it.
2024.05.19 09:20 zlaxy On this day 116 years ago, Nikolay Pilchikov, a scientist-physicist, developer of radio-controlled devices, died in Kharkov from a shot in the heart
 | On this day 116 years ago in Kharkov Nikolay Dmitrievich Pilchikov – scientist-physicist, inventor in the field of radio engineering, author of works on optics, terrestrial magnetism, electrical and radio engineering, radioactivity, X-rays, electrochemistry, geophysics, meteorology – was shot in the heart. submitted by zlaxy to ThisDayInHistory [link] [comments] At about seven o’clock in the morning of 6 May 1908, a shot rang out in a ward of an expensive Kharkov hospital. Breaking open the door locked from the inside, the doctors saw its only patient – it seemed that his life had been cut short in his sleep. The man was lying in his bunk, as if he hadn’t woken up yet. And if not for the bloodstain on his chest, no one would have realised the tragedy. A revolver lay on the tea-table beside the bed. It was from this revolver that the bullet that had pierced the scientist’s heart had been fired. Could a man who was undergoing medical treatment have carefully placed the gun beside his tea glass and folded his arms across his chest after shooting himself at point-blank range? Nevertheless, the “cadaver book” records ruled the death a suicide. For some reason forensic experts did not do dactyloscopy – the investigation was not puzzled by fingerprints on the black “bulldog”, which became the murder weapon. And the authoritative professor Nikolai Bokarius, whose name now bears the local Institute of Forensic Medicine, even described Pilchikova’s case in a textbook for lawyers and doctors as an example of temporary purposeful capacity of suicides with fatal gunshot wounds in the heart area. At that, the luminary recommended to take into account not only anatomical features of the injury, but also the functional state of the central nervous system. The picture was completed by the conclusion of pathologists, who found in the killed after the autopsy of the corpse modifications in the structure of the brain. A purely “police” justification for not considering the murder version was the fact that the incident took place in a locked room on the first floor (as if this could be an obstacle to unauthorised entry). And a week after the scientist’s death, on 13 May 1908, the head of the police department received a report from the head of the Kharkov security service about the unreliability of the “extreme leftist” Professor Pilchikov, who was known for his active participation in “criminal agitation activities of engineering students”. This was confirmed by a search of the scientist’s house, during which propaganda literature from the period of the first Russian revolution of 1905 was found. What was Professor Pilchikov doing before he was “worked out” by the police? The scientific fate of Nikolai Dmitrievich was as unusual as his death was mysterious and the fate of outstanding discoveries inexplicable. The scientist, whose life was cut short at the age of 51, was not only a physicist, but also a lyricist: he was no less talented in composing poetry, painting pictures and playing the violin. But he considered his life’s work to be his scientific career, which was unusually successful. The son of a public and cultural figure, who was a friend of Taras Shevchenko, was born on 9 May 1857 in Poltava, and already during his studies in gymnasium showed remarkable abilities in exact sciences. Entering the Faculty of Physics and Mathematics of Kharkiv University, he experimented in new at that time experiments in the field of sound recording, while still a student invented an electric phonograph. After graduation, the graduate was left to work at the Department of Physics. His first scientific monograph was devoted to optical analysis. Later the scientist made a number of discoveries on the topics of scattered light polarisation and atmospheric ionisation, atmospheric electricity and geomagnetism, radioactivity and X-rays. Pilchikov was awarded the Silver Medal from the Russian Geographical Society for a series of studies of the Kursk Magnetic Anomaly, during which iron ore deposits near Prokhorovka were predicted. After defending his thesis at the University of St. Petersburg, the master of physics was appointed privat-docent of the Kharkov University, and two years later he went to practice at a magnetic observatory in Paris, where he discovered flaws in the design of the seismograph and offered his mentors a way to correct them. Soon the young professor of Kharkov University becomes famous outside Russia, becoming a regular at international scientific conferences and a member of the Toulouse Academy of Sciences. Nikolay Pilchikov returned to Kharkov as a university professor, where he created a meteorological station that still exists today. To study the upper atmosphere, the professor developed a stratostat and then a high-altitude spacesuit to equip the pilot. The atmospheric optics researcher created his own seismograph and designed equipment to determine magnetic pressure. Having moved for some time to Odessa (to work at the Imperial Novorossiysk University), in 1894 the scientist invented an original lamp for the study of X-rays, called “Pilchikov’s focus tube”. The optical and galvanic version of the study of electrolysis developed by him made it possible to obtain images on metal plates – so the inventor became the author of electrophotography or photogalvanography. And on 25 March 1898, Nikolai Pilchikov demonstrated for the first time a device working with radio waves of a certain length and rejecting interference. During his experiments in Odessa he lit a lighthouse with the help of radio waves and moved a railway semaphore, blew up a yacht and made a cannon fire. The scientist characterised his contribution to radio physics as follows: while Popov and Marconi were looking for a way to transmit a signal over the greatest possible distance, he was solving the problem of cutting off wireless power transmission from extraneous electrical waves. Thus appeared the first device with a protector – a security filter, allowing only the waves addressed to it to reach the mechanism and protecting the equipment from atmospheric and radio interference. The scientist not only designed and manufactured different types of the first protectors, but also tested them in practice. With the help of his revolutionary device, Professor Pilchikov made it possible to create radio-controlled mine boats that could sink enemy ships without a crew and fire on enemy targets. In proposing the idea to the Russian military, the inventor characterised it as a way of detonating objects at a considerable distance without cables or other visible communication. Applying for financial assistance from the military department, Pilchikov planned to spend 15,000 roubles on laboratory equipment, manufacture of devices and their testing with the support of the Sevastopol naval forces. For his part, the scientist undertook to keep the know-how in strict secrecy and not to publish any information about the development in scientific literature. As a result, this circumstance may have contributed to the fact that the scientist’s works disappeared and he himself may have been eliminated. Military engineers discussed the professor’s petition for research funds with reference to foreign experience. Specialists compared Pilchikov’s achievements with the developments of foreign scientists experimenting with wireless telegraph, to whom the authorities did not refuse anything. For example, Preece was authorised for experiments by the postal department of England, Marconi obtained in 1897 large sums of money from the naval department of Italy, and the Berlin scientist Slaby received aeronautical parks, watercraft and troops of the Potsdam garrison from the Emperor of Germany. Pilchikov, on the other hand, had a much more extensive programme and was naturally expected to produce the most ambitious results. On his return to Kharkov in 1902, the professor continued his research in the best-equipped physical laboratory of those times, the local University of Technology. He was also allocated a ship “Dnestr” and funds for marine experiments. On the ship in 1903 the scientist equipped a receiving radio station, and on the Chersonese lighthouse – transmitting. Alas, neither the scheme of those protectors, nor the content of the experiments, nor their further fate are known today. In the archives we found only information about a letter of gratitude to Professor Pilchikov from the Commander of the Pacific Fleet. It was dated the beginning of September 1904. It is clear that in the midst of the war with Japan secret military developments could be of interest to both belligerents. Moreover, other external enemies were also interested in preventing Russia’s military advantage. Professor Pilchikov’s research competed with American experiments in the Maritime Ministry under Tesla, who was also working on the task of wireless control of a minelayer from the shore. This is a case in science when “an idea is in the air” and the same discovery is independently made by scientists at different ends of the world. It is believed that the first radio-controlled telemechanical system in the world was developed by Nikola Tesla – he patented and presented an unprecedented ship model in the summer of 1898, but came to the discovery the day before, in spring. And “Russian Tesla” Nikolai Pilchikov tested a similar invention in March of the same year, which was reported in a note in the “Odessa Review”, which for some reason remained unnoticed by the scientific community. The “two Nicholas” had a lot in common, despite the fact that they lived and created on different continents. Scientists were almost the same age. Both had no family – neither wives nor close relatives. Both were undividedly attracted to physical science – the mysteries of radioactivity, X-rays and lightning. But to Pilchikov did not appear one day George Westinghouse with a million dollars for four dozen patents. And an understanding friend, as Tesla had in the person of Katharine Johnson, next to Nikolay Dmitrievich was not there either… Being left without further state support, Pilchikov could not complete the work on his wireless protector. In 1905 he left to observe the solar eclipse in Algeria, from where he returned with failing health. Ill-health was aggravated by an acute feeling of loneliness. 1908 was a fateful year in the fate of the scientist. It was the best time of the year, the beginning of May, a time of intoxication with life and romantic dreams. But for Pilchikov, the “delight of nature” had no inspiring meaning: five days before his own birthday, he went to a psychoneurological clinic. And it happened under very mysterious circumstances. According to police reports, the owner of a private hospital and a well-known doctor I. Y. Platonov received a call from an unknown man on 3 May with a request to hospitalise Nikolai Dmitrievich Pilchikov. It was asked to prepare a separate room where the patient would be alone. When the professor appeared in the clinic, the doctors saw nothing critical in his condition. He was elegantly dressed, and in his hands held a suitcase with papers. Two days later, a shot rang out in the ward, and the papers were gone. Not a single piece of his war work was found among his household belongings. The blueprints of inventions of world importance, which the scientist had not even had time to patent, disappeared. Wasn’t the murder then the final fat point in the planned operation? And didn’t the inventor-physicist take with him to the ward what the special services hunting for his military developments were tracking down? Perhaps it was in the hospital that Nikolai Pilchikov, who had a premonition of trouble, tried to hide from his threatening pursuers? Or maybe they put him there so that it would be easier to realise what they had planned? And who were these mysterious killers?.. We will probably never get answers to these questions. But it is known how the brilliant ideas of the tragically departed scientist were put into practice. In 1913, the first radio-controlled aeroplane took to the skies. Four years later, a German boat controlled from a plane blew up the quay in the English harbour of Newport. In the same year, 1917, a German ship was damaged by a British minelayer guided from a radio-controlled aeroplane. In 1925 the first mine without wires appeared. And in 1943 the Soviet troops destroyed the Nazi headquarters with General von Braun in Kharkov occupied by the enemy by controlled explosion from Voronezh. Radio warfare has long been supplemented by radio defence, where the first role is played by devices like Pilchikov’s protectors. Thanks to radio defence, in 1944 the British were invulnerable to German fighters in the Libyan desert. Radio locks of increased complexity are used in satellite navigation and launching systems for space and military rockets. And all responsible radio electronic equipment is protected from interference by modern devices working on the principle of Professor Pilchikov’s protector – the “Russian Tesla”, who became a hindrance to someone himself… Source: Vyacheslav Kapreljants |
2024.05.19 09:09 SuspiciousSquash9151 Extreme tech illiteracy, no willingness to learn, and having the personality of an ass isn't going to make you popular here.
I work out of a branch with too much everything (the downtown site of a city with a lot of homeless, mental health, and drug abuse issues) a summary is here: https://www.reddit.com/Libraries/comments/1bho810/tales_from_a_downtown_library/
A new regular however has been the source of the topic recently.
an older man who is probably around 80 has been in at least twice a week for the last month, he's actually kind of hard to write out due to most of the interactions I know are short, frustrating, and mostly nonsense, but my first experience with him dose a decent job:
He comes to my basement-level reference area where I mostly am alone, requesting tech assistance and the use of a public computer, immediately there are some pretty interesting quirks some age-related like blatantly ignoring instructions, typing o's instead of #0, seemingly forgetting very common applications, swiping at the screen like it's an iPad and the other issue:
He's trying to get information from his bank account, the library has a strict policy that I agree with that once we are on the main page of the bank's website we do not go any further with them, I have nothing to do with login going through the site whatever is needed because it's a huge liability and none of our business.
He has no idea how online banking works and I think doesn't understand online accounts at all (despite having an email and Facebook that's been shown in later interactions) and thinks if you type name and card number into separate boxes it will magically give you all banking information including air miles what he wanted again I should not know this he announced to me and anyone in the room, so good forbid someone with malicious intent help him in a public branch well know to have issues.
another patron comes for my assistance and she's kind of intense as well, this is now already burning me out between the two, and when he's up here again hovering at the front nose practically pressed to the glass the only thing separating us in an obvious attempt to get the most attention and quickly (like I'm dealing with a toddler that doesn't want to wait until you finish a phone call) I am shorter than before stating there are other patron's I need to serve as well he is not first in line now, the response is very childish and rudder muttering under his breath for while I'm still working with her that her question isn't important and not worth the time., she's more patient after that defending your right to service will do that for some.
the same bs continues and we get nowhere because he literally can't get anywhere without another pretty much taking the mouse and doing it, to the shock of no one hes been scammed badly before, and get this won't call the bank to get information because they ask too Meany questions for personal information and cannot understand they are the one place that should.
I am over it and get my coworker so I dont scream, he's the one who runs Makerspace and is very techy and tries in vain to explain sometimes a different person with a slightly different way helps it dose not worse. I have had 2 tech issues experiences I've called someone else to handle or lose it on a patron the first took nearly 50 minutes this guy took 15.
hes has since been in several times and is worse in a way something is wrong mainly suspected dementia due to age and not making a lot of sense won't acknowledge people's suggestions and common interactions include "Why won't you help me" *what do you need* "the government is _________, school is _____ nonsensical mutter, social security ___________ nonsensical mutter, the 1960s are _______ nonsensical mutter"
until 4 days ago we did not even know he was bilingual until a page of paper to the glass (upstairs thankfully with 2 staff and more witnesses) and started demanding things in French had been band for the weekend for tone, building a case for a longer ban that has to be approved.
submitted by SuspiciousSquash9151 to Libraries [link] [comments]
A new regular however has been the source of the topic recently.
an older man who is probably around 80 has been in at least twice a week for the last month, he's actually kind of hard to write out due to most of the interactions I know are short, frustrating, and mostly nonsense, but my first experience with him dose a decent job:
He comes to my basement-level reference area where I mostly am alone, requesting tech assistance and the use of a public computer, immediately there are some pretty interesting quirks some age-related like blatantly ignoring instructions, typing o's instead of #0, seemingly forgetting very common applications, swiping at the screen like it's an iPad and the other issue:
He's trying to get information from his bank account, the library has a strict policy that I agree with that once we are on the main page of the bank's website we do not go any further with them, I have nothing to do with login going through the site whatever is needed because it's a huge liability and none of our business.
He has no idea how online banking works and I think doesn't understand online accounts at all (despite having an email and Facebook that's been shown in later interactions) and thinks if you type name and card number into separate boxes it will magically give you all banking information including air miles what he wanted again I should not know this he announced to me and anyone in the room, so good forbid someone with malicious intent help him in a public branch well know to have issues.
another patron comes for my assistance and she's kind of intense as well, this is now already burning me out between the two, and when he's up here again hovering at the front nose practically pressed to the glass the only thing separating us in an obvious attempt to get the most attention and quickly (like I'm dealing with a toddler that doesn't want to wait until you finish a phone call) I am shorter than before stating there are other patron's I need to serve as well he is not first in line now, the response is very childish and rudder muttering under his breath for while I'm still working with her that her question isn't important and not worth the time., she's more patient after that defending your right to service will do that for some.
the same bs continues and we get nowhere because he literally can't get anywhere without another pretty much taking the mouse and doing it, to the shock of no one hes been scammed badly before, and get this won't call the bank to get information because they ask too Meany questions for personal information and cannot understand they are the one place that should.
I am over it and get my coworker so I dont scream, he's the one who runs Makerspace and is very techy and tries in vain to explain sometimes a different person with a slightly different way helps it dose not worse. I have had 2 tech issues experiences I've called someone else to handle or lose it on a patron the first took nearly 50 minutes this guy took 15.
hes has since been in several times and is worse in a way something is wrong mainly suspected dementia due to age and not making a lot of sense won't acknowledge people's suggestions and common interactions include "Why won't you help me" *what do you need* "the government is _________, school is _____ nonsensical mutter, social security ___________ nonsensical mutter, the 1960s are _______ nonsensical mutter"
until 4 days ago we did not even know he was bilingual until a page of paper to the glass (upstairs thankfully with 2 staff and more witnesses) and started demanding things in French had been band for the weekend for tone, building a case for a longer ban that has to be approved.
2024.05.19 08:51 ConsequenceSure3063 Best Carabiner Knife
 | submitted by ConsequenceSure3063 to u/ConsequenceSure3063 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/fdkgupcmyb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ef3947eb1912429220207278e961594a0642880f Welcome to our Carabiner Knife roundup! Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a survivalist, or simply someone who appreciates a well-crafted tool, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll be taking a closer look at some of the top carabiner knives on the market. From versatile multi-tools to sleek, lightweight designs, we've curated a selection of products that are perfect for any adventure. So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover the best carabiner knives out there! The Top 13 Best Carabiner Knife
Reviews🔗Essential Outdoor Gerber Armbar Scout Pocket Clip Knifehttps://preview.redd.it/kqw4jfnmyb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ac1f19e0cf496f6a1283d2100ffef7d74235d89a As an outdoor enthusiast, I've been on the lookout for a reliable and compact tool to carry on my adventures. I chose the Gerber Armbar Scout multi-tool for its promise of versatility and compactness. I was pleasantly surprised by the tool's sleek design, which conveniently fit into the pocket of my backpack. One of the first features I noticed was the stainless steel construction, giving the tool a sturdy feel while keeping it lightweight. One of my favorite aspects of the Gerber Armbar Scout was its ability to open various packages with minimal effort. The can/package opener was a lifesaver during a camping trip when I needed a quick snack. The 2 1/2'' plain edge blade proved to be sturdy, allowing me to make precise cuts with ease. However, I did encounter some difficulties with the locking mechanism of the blade, which required a certain level of force to engage. While this wasn't a dealbreaker, it did cause a little bit of frustration during use. In conclusion, the Gerber Armbar Scout multi-tool serves its purpose as an essential companion for outdoor enthusiasts. Its small size and versatility were impressive, but I did encounter minor annoyances with the locking mechanism. Overall, I would recommend this tool to anyone looking for a compact and reliable multi-tool to take on their next adventure. 🔗Ultimate Emergency Slim Pocket Knifehttps://preview.redd.it/gpkbke1nyb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e199e58ae71262c188260a8a345f7c02982fce07 As an emergency situation arises, every moment counts. That's when the CRKT Exitool comes in handy, offering a fast and reliable solution for cutting seat belts and breaking windows. The slim profile makes it easy to conceal, while the textured grip ensures a firm hold. In my own experience, the Exitool has been a lifesaver, with the glass-reinforced handle providing durability and the safety cone tip cover protecting the window breaker while stowed. The only downside? . The compactness might make it a bit challenging for those with larger hands to use. Overall, the Exitool is a reliable and versatile emergency tool that helps you stay prepared for any unexpected situation. 🔗Gerber Pledge Knife: High-Quality Emergency Cutting Toolhttps://preview.redd.it/hif5giinyb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=74bf93d396fca0e79ec922f48a65446e4a9a7498 I recently had the opportunity to try out the Gerber Crisis Hook Knife, and I must say, it's a lifesaver in emergency situations. This sleek and durable tool is designed specifically for quickly and safely cutting through seat belts, clothes, and even heavy straps or cords. Its lightweight design and smooth operation make it a game-changer when time is of the essence. One of the most notable features of this knife is its integrated oxygen tank wrench, which adds extra versatility and functionality in life-saving situations. The glass breaker pommel included in the package also comes in handy when encountering obstacles that may hinder your ability to assist someone in need. While the Crisis Hook Knife has several impressive features, it's not without its drawbacks. The friction lock sheath can be tricky to attach to certain surfaces, and the clip may not be as convenient as advertised. Additionally, the knife's handle, while comfortable and easy to grip, could benefit from a more secure attachment to a tactical belt. In conclusion, the Gerber Crisis Hook Knife is an invaluable tool for first responders and anyone who needs to quickly and safely cut through various materials in emergency situations. Its lightweight design, versatility, and straightforward operation make it a must-have in your arsenal. Just be prepared to address some minor issues, such as the friction lock sheath and the clip's functionality. 🔗Al Mar Stinger Keychain Knife for Self-Defensehttps://preview.redd.it/nahmifunyb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=86acc36d0c88d927f0399439b7e160c9bb8d4172 I recently tried out the Al Mar K1001BKG Stinger Keyring Knife in Green. The first thing that caught my attention was the compactness of the knife. With it being such a small size, it's incredibly easy to discreetly attach it to my keychain while still remaining convenient to access whenever it's needed. The TPR overmolded grip proves to be an excellent feature, providing a non-slip hold, even while my hands are sweaty or in wet conditions. The dual-injected PP sheath adds an extra layer of protection, making it suitable for everyday use without worrying about damaging the blade. The blade itself has an impressively sharp edge, allowing me to open letters and boxes with ease, yet also offers a sturdy protection for instances of self-defense. Being an advocate for quality tools, I found the Stinger to deliver that expected performance from the reputed AL MAR brand. However, I noticed that for harder tasks, the blade feels somewhat delicate. One would have to handle it carefully or opt for a more robust knife for such situations, potentially compromising the ultralight key ring knife design. Despite this, overall this knife performs well, and its convenient size and efficient design make it a must-have for those who value versatility and efficiency in a concealed blade on their keychain. 🔗8-in-1 Multi-Functional Carabiner Knife for Outdoor Activitieshttps://preview.redd.it/olocg5aoyb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3a65054b883be0c86543d02809eafc56eab63c03 Using an HMMS Stainless Climbing Carabiner in my daily life has been quite an experience. This multi-functional tool has proven to be extremely versatile, from its use as a knife to its handy LED light. The knife is sharp and easy to flip out, making it an essential part of my survival gear. The LED light is a lifesaver when the power goes out, and the Phillips and regular screwdriver heads are a great addition for those quick fixes on the go. The glass breaker is also convenient, though I haven't had to use it yet. One thing that stood out is the carabiner's simple and lightweight design, making it the perfect keychain or hanging tool for my camping trips and other outdoor adventures. Despite its compact size, the carabiner is surprisingly strong and easy to use, with the locking mechanism providing a secure fit. Overall, the HMMS Stainless Climbing Carabiner is an excellent addition to any survival kit, and I highly recommend giving it a try. 🔗Multi-Purpose Carabiner Knife Toolhttps://preview.redd.it/nuu683koyb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=41480f81113890fc79d8cf5a91df38a752e0c7a2 I recently had the pleasure of trying out Brouk & Co's Multi-function Carabiner Tool, and let me tell you, it's the ultimate handyman's companion! . This tiny titan is super portable, fitting perfectly in my backpack for those unexpected situations on the go. With an impressive array of features, I found myself reaching for this bad boy more times than I ever thought possible. Its sturdy design has held up beautifully through various camping trips and household projects. While its size is convenient, it's not always the easiest to maneuver with larger hands, but overall, this carabiner tool offers exceptional utility and convenience. Whether you're an avid outdoor enthusiast or just someone in need of a versatile tool for daily life, the Brouk & Co Multi-function Carabiner Tool is the perfect fit. 🔗Durable Multi-Purpose Carabiner Knife for Everyday Survival and Outdoor Adventureshttps://preview.redd.it/h30ubgtoyb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f935ac96b73bdae1601c8b9b779db2c2347e0b89 As someone who loves being prepared for any situation, I was thrilled to try out the Sheffield Wilco 4-in-1 Carabiner Multi-Tool. The anodized black aluminum carabiner is both lightweight and versatile, making it perfect for everyday carry. The convenience of foldable flat-head and Phillips screwdrivers, along with a sturdy 3-inch serrated blade, ensures that I can tackle tough jobs with ease. While I appreciate the strength provided by the 420 stainless steel attachments, I did notice that the carabiner isn't suitable for weight support, and it is best to use it more for its attachments. However, considering the multiple functionalities it offers, this small drawback seems like a fair trade. Overall, the Sheffield Wilco 4-in-1 Carabiner Multi-Tool is a reliable and efficient tool that has become an essential part of my daily life. 🔗Versatile Carabiner Knife with Stainless Steel Bladeshttps://preview.redd.it/shmwro6pyb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=24b2f235811faab265e25c7fb6e1521235d6d985 As a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, I recently got my hands on the Dakine Hook Knife and let me tell you, it exceeded my expectations! This hook knife is designed for easy accessibility and it certainly lives up to its promise. It can be attached to your harness at any point for a quick and convenient deployment, making it a must-have tool for those seeking adventure and the great outdoors. One of the main features that stood out to me was its dual stainless steel cutting blades that effortlessly sliced through even the toughest cut lines. The anodized aluminum handle not only adds a sleek touch, but it also provides a comfortable grip that makes it a breeze to use. Additionally, the included sheath for easy harness attachment is an added bonus, guaranteeing the safe carrying of this versatile tool. While I was impressed by the performance and convenience of the Dakine Hook Knife, I did notice a downside: oxidation. After just six months of use, the aluminum handle started to display signs of oxidation. Of course, this won't affect the functionality, but it does make me wonder whether a more durable material like titanium or carbon fiber might be a better long-term choice. Despite this minor issue, the Dakine Hook Knife has become a trusted companion on my various outdoor excursions. Its user-friendly design and powerful functionality have really made a difference in my adventures, whether I'm camping or trekking. For anyone in need of an easy-to-carry hook knife that gets the job done, I would highly recommend giving the Dakine Hook Knife a try. 🔗Carabiner Knife Multi-Tool with Locking Blade and Glass Breakerhttps://preview.redd.it/pryyo7ipyb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a4730a2b8a093aa6ad0d6a241a041367976f047c I recently got my hands on the Dark Energy Carabiner Pro 5-in-1 Multi Tool, and let me tell you, it's been a game-changer for my outdoor adventures. With its all-metal design, it's sturdy enough to hold up to some serious wear and tear. The quick-snap blade is both smart and safe, and it feels really nice in your hands. I love having the convenience of two screwdrivers, a bottle opener, a knife, and even a window breaker all in one little package. Plus, the integrated carabiner makes it effortless to attach to my backpack or belt. Overall, the Dark Energy Carabiner Pro has been my go-to tool for every camping and hiking excursion. Highly recommend! . 🔗Rugged Slim Cut Multi-Tool with Easy-Access Bladehttps://preview.redd.it/n96ugxxpyb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ba1741d05b433d300f405d90e3e5e01d7e0c2556 When I received the Armbar Slim Cut Multi-Tool, I was excited to try out its features. Its sturdy design caught my attention, and the burnt orange color added a pop to its sleek appearance. This is a multi-tool designed for the adventurous, and it didn't disappoint. Let's talk about the scissors, one of the prominent features of this tool. It worked effortlessly for cutting various materials, from fabric to paper. The plain edge blade was also impressive, easily piercing through tough materials. Despite its size, it's surprisingly powerful and perfect for cutting tasks on the go. The tool's design, with large tool tabs and access points, was user-friendly. It allowed me to switch between the scissors and the blade without any fumbling. The bottle opener was a convenient addition, adding versatility to the tool. However, it wasn't all smooth sailing. The scissor's spring mechanism felt a bit flimsy, and I had to be careful while using it to avoid any accidents. Also, the blade's deployment could be smoother for a more natural and comfortable use. Overall, the Armbar Slim Cut Multi-Tool is a robust and versatile everyday carry tool. It's perfect for those who need a reliable, lightweight, and multifunctional item for various tasks. Despite a few drawbacks, I'm confident that this will be a valuable addition to many people's toolboxes. 🔗8-in-1 Carabiner Multitool with Stainless Steel Blade and EDC Featureshttps://preview.redd.it/14mhb8hqyb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=15c3daa01b69fe09b64c9bc0fe7d8003b042526a The Carabiner Keychain Multitool is an 8-in-1 lifesaver that's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Its sleek design makes it easy to carry around, and its durability ensures it will withstand even the toughest conditions. The sharp stainless steel blade is perfect for a variety of tasks, while the aluminum hand holder provides a sturdy grip. The multi-functional design includes a hanging carabiner, Phillips screwdriver, slotted screwdriver, bottle opener, and more, making it a versatile addition to any EDC (Everyday Carry) setup. Despite its robust build, the Carabiner Keychain Multitool is surprisingly lightweight, making it a great choice for everyday carry. However, it's essential to remind others to exercise caution while using the sharp blade. Overall, this compact, versatile tool is a must-have for anyone seeking survival gear or everyday convenience. 🔗Polymorph Carabiner Multifunction Knife with Titanium Finishhttps://preview.redd.it/hcunm9rqyb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e5917d0f3445ce17fe753e7ee55d8787c9d9716b The Civivi Polymorph carabiner multitool has become a handy companion in my outdoor adventures. The anodized titanium body is quite durable and serves as a perfect casing for its versatile features. The carabiner clip is a fantastic addition, allowing me to attach the tool to my backpack or gear, keeping it close at hand when needed. One of the most useful aspects is the 9Cr18MoV scalpel blade, which makes this multitool an excellent option for opening bottles or cutting through some rope. However, the hex bit driver lacked enough leverage for me to fully appreciate it during my camping trips. The choice between the plain titanium and bronzed titanium finish adds a personal touch to the overall design, making it a stylish and practical accessory for any outdoor enthusiast. While the Civivi Polymorph has its pros and cons, I find it a valuable addition to my outdoor gear lineup. 🔗Portable 8-in-1 Multi-Tool with Key Ringhttps://preview.redd.it/nuijt92ryb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=10b0d2ee30d342e1beadfc2edfa19192fd654b49 The Cabela's Silver Pocket Tool was an unexpected pocket companion in my daily life. It was a great multitasker that never failed to provide convenience on-the-go, and its anodized aluminum handle always gave me a sense of sturdy stability. I found myself using it more than I expected, especially the knife, file, and flat-head screwdriver. While the larger tools were great to have, the smaller ones sometimes felt a little lacking. The screwdriver and corkscrew had considerable wiggle room, which made me hesitant to use them on heavy-duty tasks. But in all honesty, for a tool of this versatility and portability, it wasn't too surprising to come across these slight disadvantages. The Cabela's Silver Pocket Tool, in all its multi-tasking glory, did become a handy accessory to keep in my bag or backpack. I never regretted having it by my side during unexpected camping trips or when I needed to open a stubborn lid. But it's a device that's best suited for those who appreciate its versatility over precision. Honestly, it's great to have such a multi-tasker with you, but it's not without its drawbacks. It's a case of compromises, as it seems. With the Cabela's Silver Pocket Tool, you're sacrificing a bit of precision for that all-important portability factor. Is it worth it? That depends on your own priorities. But for those who need a tool that can do a little bit of everything in a pinch, this is indeed the handy gadget you've been hunting for. So, all in all, the Cabela's 8-In-1 Pocket Tool might just be a perfect fit for your next adventure. But remember, it's not without its imperfections. It all comes down to balancing your needs and understanding its limitations. Buyer's GuideA carabiner knife is a versatile tool designed for outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists. This type of knife combines the functionality of a carabiner and a knife, making it an essential addition to anyone's gear arsenal. In this buyer's guide, we will discuss the essential features, considerations, and general advice to help you choose the best carabiner knife for your needs.Important FeaturesConstructionhttps://preview.redd.it/zf7hgdpryb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=34e37a817f68e984799716378e2f09a2fd1fbd04 One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a carabiner knife is its construction. Look for one made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or titanium, which are durable and resistant to corrosion. DesignThe design of the carabiner knife plays a crucial role in its functionality. A well-designed knife should be lightweight yet sturdy. It should have a secure and comfortable grip, and the blade should be easy to deploy and securely lock into place. Consider the size of the carabiner, as well, to ensure it can accommodate your needs.Blade TypeCarabiner knives typically come with a variety of blade types, such as a hunting or skinning blade, a utility or general-purpose blade, or a multipurpose blade. Choose the type that best suits your intended usage of the knife.FeaturesOther features to consider include a lanyard attachment for easy storage and portability. Some carabiner knives also come with additional tools, such as bottle openers or screwdrivers, which can come in handy during outdoor adventures. https://preview.redd.it/ayrxi14syb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=87178a5f5a84e5b80f6a37114dd5bb452741b964 MaintenanceChoose a carabiner knife that is easy to clean and maintain. Stainless steel and titanium are great choices due to their resistance to rust and corrosion. Regular maintenance helps ensure the knife stays in good condition for longer usage.ConsiderationsUsageDetermine the specific usage of the carabiner knife, and choose one that is designed to meet those needs. Consider the blade type, size, and features, and choose a knife that suits your intended purpose.Budgethttps://preview.redd.it/udxdi5nsyb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4d5d0ea66f61e9a8ce274eb511aac43beca50701 Consider your budget when purchasing a carabiner knife. High-quality knives made from durable materials tend to be more expensive. Determine what you can afford, but also consider the potential long-term savings by choosing a high-quality knife that will last for years. Customer ReviewsBefore making a purchase, read customer reviews to gain insight into the performance and reliability of a carabiner knife. Look for feedback on factors such as blade sharpness, construction quality, and ease of use.General AdviceTest it OutBefore going on an outdoor trip, test your new carabiner knife to ensure it is functioning properly and is comfortable to use. This will give you peace of mind and confidence in your tool's performance. https://preview.redd.it/fjp0fztsyb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=62ba65256f9f1e2dd079dbf6d20eff97af3853c8 Store it ProperlyProperly storing your carabiner knife is important to ensure its longevity. Keep it in a clean and dry environment, and securely attached to your gear to prevent it from getting dirty or damaged.Practice MaintenanceTo maintain your carabiner knife in good working condition, practice regular maintenance, such as cleaning and oiling the blade. This not only helps maintain the knife's functionality but also prolongs its lifespan.A carabiner knife is a versatile and essential tool for outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists. By considering essential features, taking into account your personal usage and budget, and reading customer reviews, you can choose the best carabiner knife for your needs. Remember to test it out, store it properly, and practice regular maintenance to keep it in great condition for years to come. FAQWhat is a Carabiner Knife?A Carabiner Knife is a versatile tool that combines a carabiner and a knife in a single device. It is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and convenient way to carry a knife and a carabiner while engaging in activities such as hiking, camping, and rock climbing.What are the benefits of using a Carabiner Knife?
How do I clean and maintain a Carabiner Knife?Cleaning and maintaining your Carabiner Knife is essential to ensure its longevity and performance. After every use, wash the blade and handle with warm soapy water. Dry the knife thoroughly before storing. To prevent rust, periodically apply a thin layer of oil or wax to the blade.Is there a difference between Carabiner Knives made of stainless steel and those made of other materials?Yes, there are differences between Carabiner Knives made of stainless steel and those made of other materials. Stainless steel blades tend to be more durable and resistant to corrosion, which makes them ideal for use in humid and wet environments. However, stainless steel knives may be heavier than those made of other materials like titanium or aluminum.What are some popular Carabiner Knife models on the market?Some popular Carabiner Knife models include the Spyderco Carabiner Knife, the Morakniv Garv Knife, and the Benchmade Bugout Knife. These knives are known for their durability, functionality, and ease of use.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.05.19 08:50 Ok_Jelly_3340 Knoxville Needs Change: Higher Wages and Affordable Housing Now
Facts:
- 30 states have a higher minimum wage than Tennessee's $7.25.
- Tennessee last raised its minimum wage in 2009.
- Since then, inflation has risen by about 36.6%.
- A decent living wage for a single adult in Tennessee is about $13.25 per hour.
Rising Rents in Knoxville
- Rapid Rent Increases: In 2022, rent growth in Knoxville was 9.6%, significantly higher than the national average of 2.3%. This trend has continued, with apartment rents increasing by around 6.06% in 2023 compared to the previous year.
- Forecasted Increases: The trend of rising rents is expected to continue, with forecasts indicating an additional 5% increase over the next year.
- High Occupancy Rates: Despite these rent increases, Knoxville's rental market remains highly competitive with occupancy rates around 96.3%, which is higher than the national average of 94.7%.
Recent Home Price Increases in Knoxville
- Median Home Price: The median home sales price in Knoxville rose to $350,000 in July 2023, representing an increase of around 7.9% compared to the previous year.
- Affordability: As of November 2023, the median home sales price was $346,000, up by about 10.8% from the previous year.
- Income Requirements: The income required to qualify for a mortgage on a median-priced home has risen dramatically, from around $59,000 at the start of 2022 to over $110,000 by August 2023.
- Housing Inventory: Despite the rising prices, the total number of homes available in Knoxville is still around half of pre-pandemic levels, contributing to the increased competition and higher prices.
Steps to Raise the Minimum Wage
Step 1: Organize a Petition Drive- Form a Nonpartisan Group: Create or join a group focused solely on raising the minimum wage, without political affiliations. Use platforms like Zoom for virtual meetings, schedule regular meetings, and use social media and local forums to recruit members.
- Research Requirements: For statewide initiatives, the number of signatures required is typically a percentage of the votes cast in the last gubernatorial election. Confirm the exact number with the Tennessee Secretary of State's office. For local initiatives in Knoxville, a charter amendment can be proposed if at least one registered voter files the petition with the county election commission for pre-approval (TCA 2-5-151).
- Tennessee Secretary of State: (615) 741-2819
- Create the Petition: Draft a clear and concise petition for a minimum wage increase. Here is a sample:
Petition for Increasing the Minimum Wage in Tennessee
To the Tennessee General Assembly:
We, the undersigned residents of Tennessee, believe that the current minimum wage of $7.25 per hour is insufficient to meet the basic needs of individuals and families in our state. Given the significant rise in living costs and inflation since the last adjustment in 2009, we urgently call for an increase in the state minimum wage to a livable wage of $13.25 per hour. This adjustment will ensure that all working Tennesseans can afford necessities such as housing, food, healthcare, and transportation.
By signing this petition, we express our support for this necessary change and urge the Tennessee General Assembly to take immediate action.
Name Address Signature
Step 2: Collect Signatures
- Host Community Events: Organize events like town hall meetings, local fairs, or farmers' markets to gather signatures.
- Utilize Local Networks: Leverage small-town connections where everyone knows each other to spread the word and gather support.
- Set Up Booths: Place booths in high-traffic areas like grocery stores, libraries, and community centers to collect signatures.
- Door-to-Door Campaigning: Go door-to-door in your neighborhood to ask for signatures.
- Social Media Campaign: Use platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to inform the community and encourage them to sign the petition.
- Local Media: Reach out to local newspapers, radio stations, and TV channels to cover your campaign.
- Flyers and Posters: Distribute flyers and put up posters in local businesses and public spaces.
- Verify Signatures: Ensure all collected signatures meet the requirements.
- Submit to Authorities: Submit the petition to the appropriate state or local authority for validation.
Deadlines and Requirements
- Submission Deadline: Typically, signatures must be submitted several months before the general election to allow time for verification. For 2024, check with the Tennessee Secretary of State for specific deadlines and the number of required signatures.
How Petitions Work
In general, for a petition to be effective and get an issue on the ballot or to influence local government action, more signatures are usually needed to demonstrate widespread community support. Here’s a brief overview of the process:- Single Signature Submission: In some cases, a single well-documented request or petition signed by one person can be submitted to local officials to initiate a discussion. However, this method is less likely to compel action without demonstrating broader community support.
- Gathering Multiple Signatures: To increase the chances of the petition being taken seriously, gathering multiple signatures shows that the issue has significant support within the community. This can influence local officials to take action.
- Specific Requirements: The exact number of signatures required can vary based on local laws and regulations. For example, getting an initiative on the ballot often requires a specific percentage of registered voters' signatures.
- Submitting a Petition to the City Council: One person can submit a petition to the city council to raise an issue. However, gathering more signatures from residents increases the impact.
- Ballot Initiatives: For ballot initiatives, there are usually legal requirements regarding the number of signatures needed. This varies by jurisdiction.
Strategies to Address Rising Rents
While controlling rent increases directly can be challenging, there are several strategies that can help stabilize the rental market and provide more affordable options:- Rent Control and Stabilization:
- Implement policies that limit how much rents can be increased annually.
- Increased Tenant Protections:
- Strengthen tenant rights to provide more security and stability, such as "just cause" eviction protections.
- Affordable Housing Development:
- Increase the supply of affordable housing through new developments and mixed-income housing projects.
- Tax Incentives for Landlords:
- Offer tax breaks or incentives to landlords who keep rents affordable.
- Community Land Trusts:
- Establish community land trusts to manage and develop affordable housing.
- Rent Subsidy Programs:
- Expand rent subsidy programs to assist low-income tenants.
Petition Example for Rent Control and Tenant Protections
Petition for Rent Control and Tenant ProtectionsTo the Knoxville City Council:
We, the undersigned, request that the Knoxville City Council take immediate action to address the rising cost of rent and protect tenants by implementing rent control measures and strengthening tenant protections. Specifically, we propose the following initiatives:
- Rent Control: Implement rent control measures that limit annual rent increases to no more than a set percentage, tied to inflation.
- Just Cause Eviction Protections: Establish "just cause" eviction protections to prevent arbitrary evictions and provide stability for tenants.
- Tax Incentives for Affordable Rent: Offer tax breaks or incentives to landlords who commit to keeping rents affordable.
- Encourage Long-Term Leases: Promote the use of long-term leases with fixed rent increases to provide stability for both tenants and landlords.
By signing this petition, we express our support for these initiatives and urge the Knoxville City Council to take immediate action to protect tenants and address the rising cost of rent.
Signature: _______________
Print Name: _______________
Address: _______________
Email: _______________
Other Strategies to Help Afford Homes
Local Level:- Affordable Housing Programs: Support and expand local programs that provide affordable housing options.
- Down Payment Assistance: Advocate for city or county programs that help with down payments for first-time homebuyers.
- Community Land Trusts: Promote local models where the community owns the land and leases it to homeowners, reducing the cost of purchasing a home.
- Zoning Reforms: Push for zoning changes within Knoxville to allow for more diverse and affordable housing developments.
- Financial Education: Provide resources locally to help individuals better manage their finances and improve their credit scores.
- Rent-to-Own Programs: Implement or support local programs where tenants can rent properties with the option to buy after a certain period.
- Increased Housing Supply: Encourage the construction of more housing units in Knoxville to meet demand.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Foster collaborations between the city and private developers to create affordable housing projects.
- Inclusionary Zoning: Require a portion of new developments in Knoxville to include affordable housing units.
- Tax Incentives: Offer local tax credits or abatements to developers who build affordable housing or to homeowners for property improvements.
- Tiny Homes and ADUs: Promote the development of tiny homes and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Knoxville as affordable housing options.
- Housing Cooperatives: Support cooperative housing models locally where residents collectively own and manage their housing.
- Employer-Assisted Housing: Encourage local employers to provide housing assistance or benefits to their employees.
- Energy Efficiency Programs: Implement local programs to improve the energy efficiency of homes, reducing utility costs and overall housing expenses.
- Foreclosure Prevention Programs: Provide local assistance and counseling to homeowners at risk of foreclosure to help them retain their homes.
- Land Banks: Establish land banks at the city level to acquire, manage, and repurpose vacant and foreclosed properties for affordable housing development.
- Petition for Ballot Initiatives: Registered voters can start petitions to get these issues on local ballots. This involves gathering a required number of signatures from the community.
- Engage with Local Officials: Attend city council meetings, contact local representatives, and advocate for these programs and reforms.
- Form or Join Advocacy Groups: Collaborate with local organizations focused on housing and community development to amplify your efforts.
- Raise Public Awareness: Use social media, local news, and community events to inform and mobilize residents around these initiatives.
- Vote: Encourage community members to vote for local leaders and initiatives that support affordable housing and related programs.
Example Petitions:
Petition for Comprehensive Affordable Housing InitiativesTo the Knoxville City Council:
We, the undersigned, request that the Knoxville City Council take comprehensive action to promote affordable housing through a combination of tax incentives, public-private partnerships, inclusionary zoning, expanded affordable housing programs, and the establishment of land banks.
- Tax Incentives: Offer local tax credits or abatements to developers who build affordable housing or to homeowners for property improvements. These incentives will encourage the development and maintenance of affordable housing units, ensuring more options are available for low- and moderate-income families.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Foster collaborations between the city and private developers to create affordable housing projects. By working together, the public and private sectors can pool resources, expertise, and funding to develop housing that meets the community's needs.
- Inclusionary Zoning: Require a portion of new developments in Knoxville to include affordable housing units. Inclusionary zoning ensures that affordable housing is integrated into new developments, promoting economic diversity and increasing the availability of affordable homes.
- Affordable Housing Programs: Support and expand local affordable housing programs to provide quality, affordable housing options for low- and moderate-income residents. Currently, many residents are struggling to find affordable housing, which impacts their quality of life and financial stability. By expanding these programs, we can ensure that more residents have access to safe, decent, and affordable housing.
- Land Banks: Establish land banks at the city level to acquire, manage, and repurpose vacant and foreclosed properties for affordable housing development. Land banks can transform unused or abandoned properties into valuable assets for the community, providing opportunities for affordable housing development and revitalizing neighborhoods.
By signing this petition, we express our support for these initiatives and urge the Knoxville City Council to take immediate action to promote affordable housing through these measures.
Signature: _______________
Print Name: _______________
Address: _______________
Email: _______________
Down Payment Assistance
Petition for Down Payment Assistance Programs
To the Knoxville City Council:
We, the undersigned, urge the Knoxville City Council to advocate for and establish city or county programs that provide down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers. Many residents find it challenging to save enough for a down payment, which is a significant barrier to achieving homeownership. By providing down payment assistance, we can help more residents transition from renting to owning their homes, promoting long-term financial stability and investment in our community.
By signing this petition, we express our support for the creation and implementation of down payment assistance programs to help first-time homebuyers in Knoxville.
Signature: _______________
Print Name: _______________
Address: _______________
Email: _______________
State or Federal Level:
- Subsidized Housing Vouchers: Increase the availability and funding for housing vouchers that subsidize rent for low-income families.
- Mortgage Credit Certificates (MCC): Promote MCC programs that provide tax credits to first-time homebuyers at the state or federal level.
How New Jersey Did It:
- Legislative Action: Passed in 2019, the law set a schedule for gradual increases to reach $15 by 2024.
- Annual Adjustments: Provisions for annual increases based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
- Broad Support: Significant political backing from the governor and legislature.
- Sector-Specific Plans: Different timelines and rates for small businesses, seasonal workers, and agricultural employees.
- Economic Advocacy: Studies and advocacy highlighted the benefits, helping to build public and political support.
Tennessee's Business Environment and Minimum Wage:
- Business-Friendly State: It's true Tennessee is known for being business-friendly, which can make raising the minimum wage challenging.
- Jobs Over $12/Hour: While many jobs may pay over $12 an hour, not all workers have access to these opportunities, especially those with limited skills or education.
Steps to Take:
- Educate and Advocate: Inform the community about the benefits of a higher minimum wage for both workers and the economy.
- Highlight Success Stories: Share examples from other states like New Jersey that have successfully raised their minimum wages without harming businesses.
- Promote Nonpartisan Support: Work with groups that focus on worker rights without political affiliations to gather broader support.
2024.05.19 08:35 Heroman3003 Taking Care of Broken Birds [Part 3]
More misery bird? More misery bird. Really miserymaxxing with these fics I have going, but hey, this one is not that miserable actually! Krekos is back and ready to be dense and downcast, but maybe not quite miserable? Read and see!
Big thank you to NoP community for being great and supportive of my endeavors!
Also, obviously, big thanks to SpacePaladin15 for creating this universe and allowing fanfiction well to flow free!
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Memory transcription subject: Krekos, Krakotl Refugee
Date [standardized human time]: May 6th, 2137
I stare at the foul creature before me. Normally staring at something directly head on like that would be too predatory for me to do, but after nearly dying of bread yesterday, I didn’t feel patient enough to be gentle. The creature stared right back, though in a much more natural, prey-like way, tilting its head slightly as it looked back at me with one eye and let out a long bwok.
“Are you doing this now? Really?”, I ask, knowing full well it cannot respond.
Well, it can, if another bwok it made is any indication. Of course, translators aren’t yet advanced enough to translate non-sapient speech, but the intention behind sound is intuitively clear. It’s telling me to back off. Well, I tried the diplomatic approach at least.
Raising my wing I begin sliding the bird out of its nest, careful to keep any delicate joints out of its reach. It started clucking in upset indignation, struggling back and even trying to peck at me, but after realizing that I will not relent, it hopped out of the box and rushed out of the cattle house, revealing a single dead egg in the nesting box.
With relief, I finally pick up the last egg and head back to leave them at the house. Turns out that while Reginald didn’t forget to both lock them up yesterday and let them out today, he did neglect feeding them both times, as well as collecting the harvest. So when I was driven back here in early morning, the first thing I did was making sure they were taken care of. I can’t say the horrid birds looked in any way hungry, but the moment I poured the feeding grain for them, they attacked it with more viciousness than I’d expect of an actual predator. And yet only thirteen were present at the feeding, as the one that’s usually the target of flock’s ire remained in the cattle house yet again, Reginald leaving it to it, being unaware of its undesirable habit of trying to hatch dead eggs.
With eggs delivered, I flew my way to my usual spot atop the cattle house and could finally relax. The loner beast first made its way to feast on the scraps of the grain that other birds already all have had their fill of, so I wasn’t too concerned. Instead I tried to reflect on the morning I had so far.
Waking up at the hospital did make me momentarily panic before I remembered the precluding events. Not that I could properly panic, feeling the most starved I’ve been my whole life, and too weak to try flying out of the window. Thankfully, the breakfast they provided was actually well made with krakotl needs in mind, algae soup alongside a few slices of bread, this time without any horrid human ideas like putting eggs in there. Eggs! Turns out they put eggs in some kinds of bread! That’s how I got sick! Eggs! The thought of what I consumed even now made me queasy, and it definitely made breakfast a much less appetizing affair than it would have been without that knowledge, but back then the hunger won over the disgust.
Lena did keep her promise and came to pick me up extra early. Her being a staff member at the hospital gave her some extra privilege, I assume, hence why I was released without any forms needing to be filled out personally. She did have important business today too, which probably explained the earlyness and urgency of her driving me back to her house.
That did not mean I escaped her ire, however. While I couldn’t pinpoint anything to identify the man, as Bob was apparently a common name, that offered me bread, we did come to understanding that he was likely either unaware of the nutritional contents of it, or of extent to which the Cure-induced allergy would be affecting a krakotl. Yet, Lena seemed much angrier at me for failing to take any precautions. Turns out that was the purpose of medicinal injectors, epipens as humans call them, that were provided to me. I was supposed to have them on me in case I accidentally ingested contaminated food. Nobody told me that, I was just handed them back when I first received the necessities at the refugee camp and I had no clue what they were for. Then she also berated me for eating random food from strangers and ignoring bad flavors. Turns out that brioche bread isn’t actually bitter at all, and that was my body reacting to an allergen in it. Reaction that I unwisely elected to ignore, to further ire of my host. By the end, several new rules of my stay here were made, including not eating things I don’t know and always having at least one epipen on me. Thankfully, these rules would be ones I’d start following even without them being established, so I won’t have to concern myself with being kicked out over accidentally breaking them.
As if following the rules will be enough to make them like you.
Trying to distract myself from thoughts of yesterday’s incident, I focused my attention on the flock. All birds accounted for, so at least I knew that my absence did not result in the predator coming to snatch one of them. I do not wish to insult my hosts, but Reginald is far from most attentive people in matters unrelated to his job, and I am not sure the birds were watched at all while I was out. Speaking of, my scannings of surrounding treelines revealed no sign of the predator today. Perhaps it departed to hunt elsewhere, or maybe it ventured too close to a more populated area and exterminators dealt with it.
Actually, did human exterminators work similar to Federation ones? I knew for a fact they had them, although they seemed like a market of private organizations if advertisements are anything to judge by. Still, what methods do they use? I know humans oppose fire, and do not believe in predatory taint, but surely they have measures to protect themselves? They are, by self-admission, far from the best natural predator, and I doubt Earth’s non-sapient predators would just leave humans be. Maybe I should call one of those human exterminator agencies and call them in to deal with that predator? I haven’t told Lena or Reginald about it, as I didn’t want to bother them, but it could pose a serious threat to the cattle, but maybe that’s the way I could resolve it without involving them?
I have not done nearly as much research into human culture and lifestyle as I should have, considering that I’ve lived on Earth for over half a year now, but the sheer width of the topic always overwhelmed me the moment I opened internet search app to the point where I just closed it right away.
And you expect to start studying again with that attitude? You’ll flunk out even from this primitive predator education course.
Extra loud call from the flock made me refocus my attention on them, but it was nothing. Just the loner getting pecked extra hard and lashing out against assailants, causing a small aimless stampede as all the birds ran around in circles, puffing up at one another. The assailants now looked a lot more like victims. I could understand those birds more than I could humans at least. The loner bird is clearly an odd one out. It’s the only one repeatedly trying to hatch unfertilized eggs it lays, and it seems to always avoid the rest of the flock. Humans may deny the existence of Predator Disease, but they can’t deny that prey and predator both can and will sometimes behave in unnatural ways that may threaten the herd's safety. Or pack’s, in case of humans. Birds must know on instinctual level that the loner’s behavior is unnatural and are attempting to combat the Predator Disease on instinctual level. And since that is natural, I still will not interfere in this, unless the loner bird actually becomes a threat to others or will start getting too injured. The first time I attempted to pick one of the birds up was the only time for a good reason, as I have learned their viciousness all too well.
DING-DING
The sudden loud ring startled me enough that I nearly tumbled off the roof. Who would be coming over now? Lena and Reginald have left together and shouldn’t be back until afternoon, and they’d never use the bell. That means someone must be here for them. But wouldn’t they warn anyone to not come over? Especially with their plans for today.
With nobody to answer these questions, I had no choice but to go and discover the answer myself, flying up and over the house, towards the entrance gate. The moment I passed the house roof, I already saw a familiar silhouette. It was the human child from a few days ago.
Thankfully, Lena’s insistence on me carrying an epipen at all times meant I also carried my satchel at all times too, so I didn’t have to go grabbing my holopad, and took it out. But before I could even launch the translator TTS app to type out a greeting, the child was already hopping in place with excitement.
“Mr. Krekos! Hi! I came over to visit!”, she exclaimed, showing off her teeth in an unnerving expression of human joy. I simply tried to avoid that and focused on the pad, typing out my response.
“Hello, Rosie. Why are you here?”
The question was genuine, as the child was not carrying any more of that honey substance from last time.
“I just came over to visit you! Is that okay? Are Mr. and Ms. Vince okay with it?”
Visit... me? Why? While I was confused, I did instinctively type out a reply.
“They did tell me visitors are allowed as long as there’s no trouble when I first moved in.”
And before I could type a followup message asking her why she’s here, she already let out a joyous roar and ran past me.
“Can I see the chickens?”, she asked, and not waiting for an answer, rushed past the house and towards the cattle yard.
“Wait! You’ll scare them!”, I yell after her, but of course without a translator she can’t understand me as she runs like she already knows where to go.
And indeed she has, quickly rushing up to the open field where the birds were grazing. Thankfully she didn’t start chasing them, instead just approaching the flock from a distance and swaying in place, watching them with what I assume was some sort of predatory excitement at the sight of prey. Maybe that’s where the contained hunting instinct of human children showed themselves? In chasing small birds? I was still more subdued, considering she stopped shy of causing a small stampede, but still.
“Grandpa used to take me with him! He helped watch this farm until Mr. and Ms. Vince moved in. I like chickens! I think they’re cute.”, the child told me innocently as she kept swaying and watching as the beasts grazed upon insects of the pasture.
That revelation was... interesting. I suppose it makes sense that between the original owner of this land dying in the bombings and Lena and Reginald moving in, it would be unattended. With nobody to feed and watch over those things, they would be long dead for sure. And it was Rosie’s grandfather... Speaking of. I typed out my words.
“Does your grandfather know you’re here?”
She seemed to get a weird look as she stopped her excited swaying, fiddling with her hands instead. Looks like I asked the correct question.
“...he knows I am out visiting neighbors.”
That did not answer my question. I squinted at the human child, and she dipped her head as she continued.
“...he doesn’t know I’m here specifically. Or that an alien even lives here...”, she explained, her tone suddenly more sullen.
I couldn’t help but squint at that, and it appears that my expression was readable enough that even a human could see the suspicion, as she continued.
“I’m sorry... But if I told grandpa, he’d tell me I’m forbidden from talking to you, like he forbade me from talking to hedgehog people in town... But I want to talk to you! You’re nice and you’re a space bird!”
The child was actually working around the rules established by her guardian to come see me. I don’t know if I should be glad or concerned. Clearly, the man is anti-alien in his opinions, and I’d rather that kind of man not know about how close he lives to one. At the same time, I’d rather not encourage a child for lying to their guardian in order to meet a stranger they know they aren’t allowed to interact with... So I just took the middle path with my next message.
“I see. What did you want to talk to me about then?”, TTS speaks for me.
Her stiffened body language disappears, replaced again with earlier excitement.
“I wanna know more about space! And aliens! It’s all so cool but grandpa says it’s all dangerous because mom and dad died. But it’s not! The hedgehog people were nice, and you’re nice too!”
I wasn’t sure about that logic, but my self-preservation told me I shouldn’t try convincing her to go confessing. Instead I focused more on her chosen topic.
“I am not sure I am the best person to ask about space. I am not a scientist or traveler.”
“But you’re from there! You know way more than me. I don’t even know what you are called. And there’s gotta be cool things out in space!”
I let out a sigh. I suppose it’s childlike curiosity at its finest. So unfamiliar with mundane that it is a wonder. I remember being like that about becoming a doctor.
And then you let your teacher die.
I quickly tapped on the pad.
“Okay, I can answer questions, but I may not know everything.”
The noise that came out of the girl was like a squeal of a panicked dossur as she started hopping and spinning in place.
“Yes! Yes! Thank you, Mr. Krekos!” Sudden movement did cause me to recoil a bit, which in turn caused her to cease her happy flailing and adjust her little dress. “I dunno where to start though... Hm... What are you?”
...for all my trepidation about not knowing answers, I should have anticipated that the questions she asks will be rather age-appropriate and on the same level as we learn in our first school classes. At least I won’t disappoint her then.
“I am from a species called ‘krakotl’. We’re avians, as is obvious. Our home is...”dead, gone, reduced to glass and ash by our own hubris “...was Nishtal. A beautiful planet...”
Thankfully she did not question my hesitant pause. Instead she just nodded along.
“What about the hedgehog people? I already know venlil, but they’re the only ones I know name of.”
Hedgehog people in town she mentioned earlier. The only species I could think of that could be seen there would be the gojid. I have no clue what hedgehogs are, but probably some creature with visible similarity to them.
“They are called ‘gojid’, and they’re from gojid Cradle. Both of our species are... well, used to be known for our might and protecting other species of Federation.”
I am not sure if that’s something to brag about, considering... everything. But I didn’t want this child to get brought down with depressing regrets of our species. Let her know something nicer instead. She clearly lost a lot, but there’s still joy left in her. I wouldn’t want to be the one to ruin that.
“Cool! What about other people? I wanna know more!”
And so I went on, telling her about various species, although I mostly focused on ones in this new human-led union, only mentioning kolshians and farsul beyond that. It’s weird explaining to a child what a tilfish or a harchen looks like, but thankfully my holopad isn’t just a method of communicating with implant-less children. With access to interstellar web, I could easily pull up pictures of various alien species to show to her, even if she struggled to believe that some of them were even sapient purely based off of looks. With how varied species in Federation are, and how some of us admittedly aren’t too far physiologically from our more primal ancestors.
Among other topics, she asked me to tell her interesting things, which I didn’t know much of. I told her about Venlil Prime’s tidally locked status, a rarity among habitable planets, much less homeworlds for species. I told her about the unique architecture of Mileau, designed to accommodate both species of regular size and dossur themselves. I told her about Colia medical academies, some of the most beautiful medical facilities in the galaxy.
I wish I was more well-travelled, but I just wasn’t. My whole life, I never left Nishtal until the extermination fleet took me despite my protests. That may have been what saved my life...
Not that I, of all people, deserved it...
“Hey! Stop that!”
I flinched as I heard the child yell, but quickly realized that it wasn’t directed at me. Instead, Rosie was rushing down towards the chicken flock, breaking up the fight in which the loner was being pecked by a few larger chickens. As the human child approached, the birds stopped their infighting and scattered in different directions, crowing in loud panic and discontent. On instinct, I found myself rushing towards the child, forgetting about translation entirely.
“What are you doing?! Don’t touch them!”
I didn’t want her to hurt the cattle accidentally, and I didn’t want her to get hurt by the angry birds in return. But, it seems like the moment the birds scattered, she was satisfied with her actions and turned back to me, wearing another one of her happy smiles.
“Sorry, Mr. Krekos, I just saw chickens being mean. Bad chickens.” She explained.
I was baffled. Why would she interfere like that? When I tried that back when I was just starting, that got me pecked! But with her, the birds just scattered. What if they pecked her?
I took the pad out again and started typing quickly.
“That was dangerous. Why did you do that? What if they attacked you? Why are you even interfering in their natural dynamics?”, questions flowed out of my pad with an artificial human voice.
The girl simply giggled.
“They’re chickens! They aren’t dangerous. They don’t peck that painful and I’ve been scratched worse before. And I have to stop it because bullying is wrong.”
Then she actually noticed that the one that was being attacked wandered close. She casually approached it from behind, the blind spot and just reached down and grabbed it, picking the bird up. I was ready to rush to help the bird when...
“Mwah! There, all better.”
She did a human ‘kiss’ on the back of the cattle bird’s neck before releasing it, the surprise of it causing it to rush off. I knew what kisses were, I’ve seen enough of them between Lena and Reginald, but I believed they were gestures of intimate affection, not... what was even that?
It seems Rosie noticed my confusion as she explained.
“You gotta kiss it so it heals better! That’s what mom taught me.” The child displayed that smile of hers shamelessly. With how much I was being exposed to it, it almost wasn’t unnerving anymore. Still, it was interesting to learn that kisses are seen as something that helps wounds. I guess some species do have saliva with mild antiseptic properties, wouldn’t be too out there to assume humans are the same. And if that’s the case, maybe that’s how the kissing tradition started? Exchange of protective fluid between lovers?
“I see. I did not know that.” I responded before letting my puffed feathers relax. Okay, this whole ‘watching a human child’ thing is turning out to somehow be even more stressful than I expected at first.
“Wait, Mr. Krekos, what time is it?” She suddenly asked, looking up at the sky.
“It’s nearly twelve.” I respond, holopad having a convenient clock for local time.
“Oh no! I need to be home soon! Was nice seeing you Mr. Krekos gotta go bye!”
Before I had even a chance at typing out an answer or my own goodbye, the child sprinted away and back towards the entrance. I had to take flight just to keep up, and even then she just turned around, waved her arm at me and then kept sprinting down the road after leaving the gate. I simply offered a small wave of a wing back before locking the gate again. I suppose it is hard to keep track of time without a device or clock nearby...
Well, at least I had the usual peace and quiet now. And learned a bit more about the creatures I was in charge of. I should really try to deal with my aversion to looking things up on the human internet...
Just as I was about to head back out towards the yard, I heard a loud car horn, a familiar one, getting my attention. Lena’s car. There they were, signaling me, probably having spotted me at the gate from afar. Deciding to make use of my presence here, and hoping to avoid needing to explain that I had a surprise visitor earlier, I went ahead and opened the large gate, allowing the car to enter.
Once it was parked in the usual space, the doors opened and three people came out. Lena and Reginald were both looking a bit disheveled, but their faces carried these smiles that seemed wider than ever before. And third person... Was a stranger. A human I knew of, but never actually met. As he exited the car, a large bag in one hand, he just stared at me, standing in the front yard...
“...okay, I expected many things when I was told you guys housed a refugee, but not this.”
Oh no. Oh no, he was not one of the ones that was willing to overlook an invader that partook in bombing of his planet being allowed to walk free, of course, Lena and Reginald were the weird ones like that, doesn’t mean their son won’t be... I felt the panic rising as I realized I’d need to return to the camp. Why was I upset about that? This was supposed to just have been a way to make money, but now I have a free education program. Do I need to stay? No, but... Why?! Why do I not want to leave?
“Ken, you said it’s going to be alright no matter what it is, right? Wanted us to keep it a surprise to meet a new friend?” Lena’s voice. She should have told him, that’d give me time to prepare why didn’t they give me time why.
“No, no problems, just, really surprised, that’s all... uh... hey, buddy, you okay? You’re really... trembly.”
He was approaching me, and instinct took over as I recoiled, before stuttering out my answer.
“I-I’m fine...”
...thankfully translators don’t translate voice cracks. I hope, at least...
“Hey, relax... I have no problem with you being a krakotl, I just didn’t think...” He looks over at Lena and Reginald. “Calm down... I can wear my visor if you want?”
Right. Those things humans use to hide their scary faces from us.
“I... I’m good...”
Why would it last? It almost felt good after all.
There was some emotion I struggled to read on the young human’s face, as he sighed and shook his head.
“I screwed this up, I’m sorry. Let... Let me try again.” He straightened out, and adjusted his clothing, before slowly approaching me and giving me a small smile, no teeth showing. “Hello. My name is Kenneth Vince and I'm son of Lena and Reginald Vince. I was told you’re a refugee they took in to help out. It’s nice to meet you. What’s your name?”
That... snapped me out of it. Right... He was... not upset at my existence. He was just very surprised that Lena and Reginald weren’t. That’s a reasonable thing to be surprised about, considering I was surprised about it to this day. I tried to compose myself as I responded.
“My name is Krekos. I live here as... hired help with the cattle. It’s... nice to meet you?”
The smile on Kenneth’s face widens, though he still refrains from showing his teeth. Instead, he extends a hand towards me. A handshake is a human gesture that I found far from comfortable, but I didn’t want to give him a reason to change his mind on acceptability of my existence, so I took it with a wingclaw. He gently took it and held for a few seconds before letting go and sighing again, turning to his parents.
“You know, I always thought you guys would be empty nesters, but I never thought it’d be that literal.”
That got all three of them laughing, as I just tilted my head in confusion. I was fairly sure there were no empty nests in the house until after I adjusted the attic room for my own accommodations. Still, I took the laughter as a sign that the tense moment had fully passed and let my ruffled feathers slowly rest.
“Let’s head inside. Krekos, we’re having dinner, you’re welcome to join us.” Reginald said, picking up Kenneth’s bag. I tilted my head a little and he followed up with elaboration. “We will be having meat... But there’s still going to be stuff you can eat too. It’s a celebration, so I prepared a bit of everything.”
“Dad, you shouldn’t have!” Kenneth responded with embarrassment.
“None of that! Our son returned from the war, alive and a hero, and we can have a celebration. Krekos, I know you’re still... uncertain about meat so you don’t—”
“I’ll join.”
Wait, who said that? And why did they say that in my voice?
Wait, that was me. Why did I say that?
“That’s great to hear! I’ve got some nice steamed broccoli and some vegetarian fried rice as sides that you’ll enjoy!” Reginald smiled at me and I felt myself shrinking into my feathers. That the humans didn’t notice at least, proceeding into the house instead.
Well, looks like I signed my warrant. At least my bag and my epipen were on me in case something at the table triggers the allergy again. Would be rather unfortunate to have it happen two days in a row.
And that’s how, in just ten or so minutes, I found myself sitting at the dining perch, while humans took seats in chairs, all consuming chunks of roasted flesh and somehow managing to also stuff pieces of equally roasted plants in, and converse with one another. You wouldn’t be able to tell on first look, but despite their mouths being relatively small, especially for a predator, it seems they compensate for it by having those be near bottomless in both hunger and small talk.
I am not sure how I managed to shift my focus away from them consuming animal matter in front of me, however vat grown it might have been, and onto their conversation instead, but I succeeded. I suppose that was just part of me going native around predators. Soon, I’ll be the one feasting along with them before I know it, and snacking on those epipens to not die of it.
Like you could ever be on the same level as humans.
“So, Fahl? That’s where you were sent after the Battle of Earth?” Lena asked.
“Yeah. From what I heard, we got a light posting compared to guys at Sillis or Mileau. The most I had to deal with was some exterminator insurgents.”
That’s right. Since harchen participated in the Extermination Fleet, they were one of those who were occupied by humans during the war. It makes sense that there was at least some ground resistance.
“Honestly, the worst thing out there was the heat. Not the flamethrower kind, the climate. The place was so damn dry and hot. At least exterminators you could subdue or evade. Not so much with the scorching sun!”
I couldn’t resist a small chuckle at the idea of a predator being more afraid of hot weather than flamethrowers as I slowly pecked at the vegetables on my plate. Thankfully it was set far enough aside from any meat dishes that no contamination should occur, but I was still examining pieces before putting them in my mouth just in case.
Seems like reacting was a mistake though, as that brought Kenneth’s attention onto me. He finished chewing latest piece of flesh and pointed a fork at me.
“So, Krekos... Where are you from? Cradle was my guess, but I do know there were refugees from other places like Sillis too.”
That’s a weird question. Isn’t it kind of to be expected for a krakotl to be from our actual homeworld?”
“I’m from Nishtal.”
“No, no, that’s not what I meant,” Kenneth chuckled, tossing a piece of broccoli into his mouth and swallowing before continuing, “I meant, where did you live? I kind of assumed you were born there, but it’s not like Nishtal had a chance to send refugees out, and if they did, this is the last place they’d be.”
Oh... I caught concerned looks of Lena and Reginald, looking between me and Kenneth from both sides. Not only did they not make him aware that I was a krakotl, they also neglected to mention just how I came by my refugee status... Which was just a legal workaround to grant me asylum without unnecessary complications or establishing undesirable precedent. Legally, I may be a refugee, but practically... I am a defector. Lena and Reginald know that, I told them my story before. And while they were weirdly accepting, Kenneth... Fought extermination fleet here on Earth. Personally.
Still, I wasn’t about to lie. It took a few moments and gathering mental strength to steel myself, and averting my eyes, focusing on the plate of warm vegetables in front of me rather than the human’s anticipating stare before I answered.
“I did live on Nishtal. I... I came with the extermination fleet.” I responded, doing my best to avoid looking at him. I did not want to witness his reaction, for some reason the thought of seeing it weighed heavy on my mind.
“Oh.”
The response was simple, and had no followup. There was no more clinking of cutlery against plates, or chewing. The only thing hanging in the air of the kitchen was silence, weighing down on me. It dragged on and on... until it just got so unbearable I couldn’t take it.
“I-I’m full... Thank you for the meal.” I quickly said, hopping off the perch and stepping out of the kitchen, quickly making my way to the yard and taking flight.
Fresh air of the outside and rush of it as I flew up and gained speed... I missed that. I knew it’s not safe to just fly over other people’s territory, so I corrected my course into doing large sweeping circles over the cattle yard and simply let my wings carry me.
Flying away from any danger is the only thing I’m good for anyway. The only thing I ever do.
I closed my eyes. With them closed and not focusing on my angle it feels like I’m actually flying away from all the troubles. Away from humans who barely tolerate my existence, away from gojid who see me as worse than a predator, away from Earth and all its incorrigible customs, away from horrid cattle, away from constant memories...
Flying feels nice. It may be a bit harder than it was home, but it’s still possible. I heard that on Venlil Prime or Mileau it’s much harder. But here? Just an extra flap of wings for every few paces and you’re just fine, free to soar the skies...
Alone. With no one to ever share it with me again.
Slowly I let my eyes open back to the bleak reality. Greenery of surrounding pastures and woods, bright blue skies and farmhouses dotted about here and there greeted me. I lowered my gaze down, focusing on what’s below. There they were, fourteen brown and black dots spread around the enclosed portion of the farm territory. I am not sure how much time I’ve spent flying in circles and trying to forget things but my wings were feeling a tad sore. Then as I just began slow descent, in same circular motion, I noticed that one of the birds, a familiar one, was being chased by several others. Recounting the morning, I tried putting the knowledge to action, and shifted direction of descent, swooping down. To my surprise, that actually worked, as the moment I got close to the ground, the cattle birds all got much louder and scattered in all directions, including the loner. Who, at least this time, got off unharmed. I suppose such pathetic flightless creatures would fear a flying one much more than they would when I just run up to them...
Swooping at them from the sky like a predator to intimidate them into behaving... Like an arxur warden.
With the fight preemptively broken up, I flutter up to the roof of the cattle house, to my usual position and rested my wings. I didn’t see any movement from the direction of the house, so I suppose the family is still busy unpacking. Since Kenneth joined the military just before the Battle of Earth, and Lena and Reginald only moved here after their actual house in city of New York got destroyed, it’d be the first time the human is seeing what is basically his new home. There was a room set aside for him since before I even moved in, and while there is also a guest room... That one did not have a large enough window to fit through, which did not feel comfortable. So when I asked for a space with a bigger window they only had an attic to offer. They seemed uncomfortable letting me live in a tiny room with slanted roof, but I found such space more comforting than I would have a large room with a window not large enough to fit even one fully spread wing through.
I wonder if Kenneth will need as much renovation as I did? The house is built for humans, but he never lived there before. Will he need to buy a more comfortable bed? Getting a proper nesting setup in place of a bed took a bit of effort, but I figured something out. Human sheets were comfortable enough for such, and sitting perches were thankfully not that hard to get thanks to help from the refugee administration. Maybe that’s the things that Lena went to buy yesterday? Kenneth’s preferred room decor?
I looked up to the sky to see the sun beginning to dim. I am not sure if it was me flying that long, or me losing track of time in my thoughts again, but the sun was beginning to set. I began my usual chores, putting out an evening meal and water for the beasts, and while they feasted, ate some myself. I was a bit hungry, having not properly finished lunch and about to skip dinner, but after the earlier conversation, I’d really rather avoid giving them the opportunity to talk to me.
After the birds had their fill, and by that I mean they emptied the tray as they always do, I let out the call, and they started funneling into the cattle house. The lonely straggler being first to go and hop into its nesting box. I bet tomorrow I will have trouble with getting her out of there again...
I took the moment to gather some eggs the birds left over course of the day, and once that was over and all of them were accounted for, I closed it up. When I flew down over to the house, there wasn’t anyone by the back door thankfully, so I just left eggs there, returned the basket, and returned to my room through the window.
Well, at least I didn’t get nearly killed today... That’s nice I guess?
I was about to check my holopad when there was a knock on the door. I approached and opened it to see... Kenneth. Standing in the doorway.
“Uh, hi, Krekos. I just, uh... Wanted to apologize again. I really wish mom and dad told me everything ahead of time... I just want you to know, I have no problems with you whatsoever, yeah? It’s just. Surprising, I guess, to hear all that. I didn’t think there were any defectors from the fleet at all... Just. Uh, please don’t worry about me?” He offered me a small smile, showing his canines before quickly correcting himself and doing a closed-lip one. “I didn’t mean to bring up bad memories or make you feel unwelcome.”
I had to take a moment to contemplate his words. Was Lena and Reginald’s weirdness hereditary? He almost reminded me of how Reginald talked to me early on, with constant stumbling over the words, as well as constant reassurances that he is fine with me being here. Couple that with failing to avoid predatory mannerisms like eye contact and smiles like Lena tends to and you get this human. But most importantly and least understandably, there was the general fact of him and them just... welcoming me. I couldn’t understand why. I should be one sorry to them.
“N-No, it’s fine... I’m sorry for... intruding on you and your family.”
“No, no, dude, you’re fine! I mean, hell, I was considering entering one of those exchange programs before the bombings happened, and even after, well, I did my best at Fahl to be the perfect friendly soldier just there to make sure no more bombs drop on my home and not kill or conquer anyone. And then mom told me your story, and I can’t believe it... Just... If you have any issues, feel free to tell me. I’m not one of those racist pricks that are too pussy to even call themselves HF anymore because they know they’ll get their teeth knocked. I get that there aren't good or bad species, just people. And you seem like a decent guy if mom and dad’s judgment is to be trusted.” His smile widened, though it was clear from tension on his face that he had to take conscious effort to keep teeth hidden. “So, what I said earlier stands. Friends, right?”
He extends hand forward, for a second time today. I wasn’t sure if I knew this human long enough to call him a friend... Any human really. But it also seems like human definition of ‘friends’ is anyone they’re cordial and peaceful with. Which is weird. You’d think translators would properly use ‘acquaintance’ for that.
Still... We will be living in the same house now. I can’t just say no, and... I can’t come up with a reason to say no. Even him being a predator and a human is not something I could really say I object to, considering how... mundane that became to me over my time here.
So, with naught on my mind but acceptance of the situation, I extended my wing and grasped his hand with my claw. This time he actually gripped it tightly and moved it up and down, as I saw other humans do occasionally.
“Yeah... I guess that’d be for the best.” I responded, shrugging off the hesitation. Fresh start for a third time, I guess?
The human grinned, forgetting to hide his teeth entirely, but I was ready for it somehow and avoided outwardly reacting.
“Cool! Anyway, I’ll try to get some shuteye early, I couldn’t sleep on the overnight flight home. See ya!”
And with that he left. Well... That meeting went well I suppose?
I returned to my nest and picked up my holopad, returning to what I was doing. And there it was, something I awaited every day. A notification that I was messaged on mailing app. Opening the letter revealed the schedule for the study program. Which... only had one day marked on it. And a note that the rest of it will be figured out ‘as we go from there’. So it’s not a schedule, it’s just a mark for the day of the first meeting.
While a bit underwhelming, it was still exciting. It would be an all-alien class so I wouldn’t have to deal with humans’ incomprehensibility nearly as much, and it would allow me to finally return to pursuing what I actually dreamt of. Even if I wasn’t entirely sure that was precisely what I wanted after everything that happened, it was at least something for me to move towards.
...just two days until start. I wonder if there’s some required reading to prepare?
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Big thank you to NoP community for being great and supportive of my endeavors!
Also, obviously, big thanks to SpacePaladin15 for creating this universe and allowing fanfiction well to flow free!
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Date [standardized human time]: May 6th, 2137
I stare at the foul creature before me. Normally staring at something directly head on like that would be too predatory for me to do, but after nearly dying of bread yesterday, I didn’t feel patient enough to be gentle. The creature stared right back, though in a much more natural, prey-like way, tilting its head slightly as it looked back at me with one eye and let out a long bwok.
“Are you doing this now? Really?”, I ask, knowing full well it cannot respond.
Well, it can, if another bwok it made is any indication. Of course, translators aren’t yet advanced enough to translate non-sapient speech, but the intention behind sound is intuitively clear. It’s telling me to back off. Well, I tried the diplomatic approach at least.
Raising my wing I begin sliding the bird out of its nest, careful to keep any delicate joints out of its reach. It started clucking in upset indignation, struggling back and even trying to peck at me, but after realizing that I will not relent, it hopped out of the box and rushed out of the cattle house, revealing a single dead egg in the nesting box.
With relief, I finally pick up the last egg and head back to leave them at the house. Turns out that while Reginald didn’t forget to both lock them up yesterday and let them out today, he did neglect feeding them both times, as well as collecting the harvest. So when I was driven back here in early morning, the first thing I did was making sure they were taken care of. I can’t say the horrid birds looked in any way hungry, but the moment I poured the feeding grain for them, they attacked it with more viciousness than I’d expect of an actual predator. And yet only thirteen were present at the feeding, as the one that’s usually the target of flock’s ire remained in the cattle house yet again, Reginald leaving it to it, being unaware of its undesirable habit of trying to hatch dead eggs.
With eggs delivered, I flew my way to my usual spot atop the cattle house and could finally relax. The loner beast first made its way to feast on the scraps of the grain that other birds already all have had their fill of, so I wasn’t too concerned. Instead I tried to reflect on the morning I had so far.
Waking up at the hospital did make me momentarily panic before I remembered the precluding events. Not that I could properly panic, feeling the most starved I’ve been my whole life, and too weak to try flying out of the window. Thankfully, the breakfast they provided was actually well made with krakotl needs in mind, algae soup alongside a few slices of bread, this time without any horrid human ideas like putting eggs in there. Eggs! Turns out they put eggs in some kinds of bread! That’s how I got sick! Eggs! The thought of what I consumed even now made me queasy, and it definitely made breakfast a much less appetizing affair than it would have been without that knowledge, but back then the hunger won over the disgust.
Lena did keep her promise and came to pick me up extra early. Her being a staff member at the hospital gave her some extra privilege, I assume, hence why I was released without any forms needing to be filled out personally. She did have important business today too, which probably explained the earlyness and urgency of her driving me back to her house.
That did not mean I escaped her ire, however. While I couldn’t pinpoint anything to identify the man, as Bob was apparently a common name, that offered me bread, we did come to understanding that he was likely either unaware of the nutritional contents of it, or of extent to which the Cure-induced allergy would be affecting a krakotl. Yet, Lena seemed much angrier at me for failing to take any precautions. Turns out that was the purpose of medicinal injectors, epipens as humans call them, that were provided to me. I was supposed to have them on me in case I accidentally ingested contaminated food. Nobody told me that, I was just handed them back when I first received the necessities at the refugee camp and I had no clue what they were for. Then she also berated me for eating random food from strangers and ignoring bad flavors. Turns out that brioche bread isn’t actually bitter at all, and that was my body reacting to an allergen in it. Reaction that I unwisely elected to ignore, to further ire of my host. By the end, several new rules of my stay here were made, including not eating things I don’t know and always having at least one epipen on me. Thankfully, these rules would be ones I’d start following even without them being established, so I won’t have to concern myself with being kicked out over accidentally breaking them.
Trying to distract myself from thoughts of yesterday’s incident, I focused my attention on the flock. All birds accounted for, so at least I knew that my absence did not result in the predator coming to snatch one of them. I do not wish to insult my hosts, but Reginald is far from most attentive people in matters unrelated to his job, and I am not sure the birds were watched at all while I was out. Speaking of, my scannings of surrounding treelines revealed no sign of the predator today. Perhaps it departed to hunt elsewhere, or maybe it ventured too close to a more populated area and exterminators dealt with it.
Actually, did human exterminators work similar to Federation ones? I knew for a fact they had them, although they seemed like a market of private organizations if advertisements are anything to judge by. Still, what methods do they use? I know humans oppose fire, and do not believe in predatory taint, but surely they have measures to protect themselves? They are, by self-admission, far from the best natural predator, and I doubt Earth’s non-sapient predators would just leave humans be. Maybe I should call one of those human exterminator agencies and call them in to deal with that predator? I haven’t told Lena or Reginald about it, as I didn’t want to bother them, but it could pose a serious threat to the cattle, but maybe that’s the way I could resolve it without involving them?
I have not done nearly as much research into human culture and lifestyle as I should have, considering that I’ve lived on Earth for over half a year now, but the sheer width of the topic always overwhelmed me the moment I opened internet search app to the point where I just closed it right away.
Extra loud call from the flock made me refocus my attention on them, but it was nothing. Just the loner getting pecked extra hard and lashing out against assailants, causing a small aimless stampede as all the birds ran around in circles, puffing up at one another. The assailants now looked a lot more like victims. I could understand those birds more than I could humans at least. The loner bird is clearly an odd one out. It’s the only one repeatedly trying to hatch unfertilized eggs it lays, and it seems to always avoid the rest of the flock. Humans may deny the existence of Predator Disease, but they can’t deny that prey and predator both can and will sometimes behave in unnatural ways that may threaten the herd's safety. Or pack’s, in case of humans. Birds must know on instinctual level that the loner’s behavior is unnatural and are attempting to combat the Predator Disease on instinctual level. And since that is natural, I still will not interfere in this, unless the loner bird actually becomes a threat to others or will start getting too injured. The first time I attempted to pick one of the birds up was the only time for a good reason, as I have learned their viciousness all too well.
DING-DING
The sudden loud ring startled me enough that I nearly tumbled off the roof. Who would be coming over now? Lena and Reginald have left together and shouldn’t be back until afternoon, and they’d never use the bell. That means someone must be here for them. But wouldn’t they warn anyone to not come over? Especially with their plans for today.
With nobody to answer these questions, I had no choice but to go and discover the answer myself, flying up and over the house, towards the entrance gate. The moment I passed the house roof, I already saw a familiar silhouette. It was the human child from a few days ago.
Thankfully, Lena’s insistence on me carrying an epipen at all times meant I also carried my satchel at all times too, so I didn’t have to go grabbing my holopad, and took it out. But before I could even launch the translator TTS app to type out a greeting, the child was already hopping in place with excitement.
“Mr. Krekos! Hi! I came over to visit!”, she exclaimed, showing off her teeth in an unnerving expression of human joy. I simply tried to avoid that and focused on the pad, typing out my response.
“Hello, Rosie. Why are you here?”
The question was genuine, as the child was not carrying any more of that honey substance from last time.
“I just came over to visit you! Is that okay? Are Mr. and Ms. Vince okay with it?”
Visit... me? Why? While I was confused, I did instinctively type out a reply.
“They did tell me visitors are allowed as long as there’s no trouble when I first moved in.”
And before I could type a followup message asking her why she’s here, she already let out a joyous roar and ran past me.
“Can I see the chickens?”, she asked, and not waiting for an answer, rushed past the house and towards the cattle yard.
“Wait! You’ll scare them!”, I yell after her, but of course without a translator she can’t understand me as she runs like she already knows where to go.
And indeed she has, quickly rushing up to the open field where the birds were grazing. Thankfully she didn’t start chasing them, instead just approaching the flock from a distance and swaying in place, watching them with what I assume was some sort of predatory excitement at the sight of prey. Maybe that’s where the contained hunting instinct of human children showed themselves? In chasing small birds? I was still more subdued, considering she stopped shy of causing a small stampede, but still.
“Grandpa used to take me with him! He helped watch this farm until Mr. and Ms. Vince moved in. I like chickens! I think they’re cute.”, the child told me innocently as she kept swaying and watching as the beasts grazed upon insects of the pasture.
That revelation was... interesting. I suppose it makes sense that between the original owner of this land dying in the bombings and Lena and Reginald moving in, it would be unattended. With nobody to feed and watch over those things, they would be long dead for sure. And it was Rosie’s grandfather... Speaking of. I typed out my words.
“Does your grandfather know you’re here?”
She seemed to get a weird look as she stopped her excited swaying, fiddling with her hands instead. Looks like I asked the correct question.
“...he knows I am out visiting neighbors.”
That did not answer my question. I squinted at the human child, and she dipped her head as she continued.
“...he doesn’t know I’m here specifically. Or that an alien even lives here...”, she explained, her tone suddenly more sullen.
I couldn’t help but squint at that, and it appears that my expression was readable enough that even a human could see the suspicion, as she continued.
“I’m sorry... But if I told grandpa, he’d tell me I’m forbidden from talking to you, like he forbade me from talking to hedgehog people in town... But I want to talk to you! You’re nice and you’re a space bird!”
The child was actually working around the rules established by her guardian to come see me. I don’t know if I should be glad or concerned. Clearly, the man is anti-alien in his opinions, and I’d rather that kind of man not know about how close he lives to one. At the same time, I’d rather not encourage a child for lying to their guardian in order to meet a stranger they know they aren’t allowed to interact with... So I just took the middle path with my next message.
“I see. What did you want to talk to me about then?”, TTS speaks for me.
Her stiffened body language disappears, replaced again with earlier excitement.
“I wanna know more about space! And aliens! It’s all so cool but grandpa says it’s all dangerous because mom and dad died. But it’s not! The hedgehog people were nice, and you’re nice too!”
I wasn’t sure about that logic, but my self-preservation told me I shouldn’t try convincing her to go confessing. Instead I focused more on her chosen topic.
“I am not sure I am the best person to ask about space. I am not a scientist or traveler.”
“But you’re from there! You know way more than me. I don’t even know what you are called. And there’s gotta be cool things out in space!”
I let out a sigh. I suppose it’s childlike curiosity at its finest. So unfamiliar with mundane that it is a wonder. I remember being like that about becoming a doctor.
I quickly tapped on the pad.
“Okay, I can answer questions, but I may not know everything.”
The noise that came out of the girl was like a squeal of a panicked dossur as she started hopping and spinning in place.
“Yes! Yes! Thank you, Mr. Krekos!” Sudden movement did cause me to recoil a bit, which in turn caused her to cease her happy flailing and adjust her little dress. “I dunno where to start though... Hm... What are you?”
...for all my trepidation about not knowing answers, I should have anticipated that the questions she asks will be rather age-appropriate and on the same level as we learn in our first school classes. At least I won’t disappoint her then.
“I am from a species called ‘krakotl’. We’re avians, as is obvious. Our home is...”
Thankfully she did not question my hesitant pause. Instead she just nodded along.
“What about the hedgehog people? I already know venlil, but they’re the only ones I know name of.”
Hedgehog people in town she mentioned earlier. The only species I could think of that could be seen there would be the gojid. I have no clue what hedgehogs are, but probably some creature with visible similarity to them.
“They are called ‘gojid’, and they’re from gojid Cradle. Both of our species are... well, used to be known for our might and protecting other species of Federation.”
I am not sure if that’s something to brag about, considering... everything. But I didn’t want this child to get brought down with depressing regrets of our species. Let her know something nicer instead. She clearly lost a lot, but there’s still joy left in her. I wouldn’t want to be the one to ruin that.
“Cool! What about other people? I wanna know more!”
And so I went on, telling her about various species, although I mostly focused on ones in this new human-led union, only mentioning kolshians and farsul beyond that. It’s weird explaining to a child what a tilfish or a harchen looks like, but thankfully my holopad isn’t just a method of communicating with implant-less children. With access to interstellar web, I could easily pull up pictures of various alien species to show to her, even if she struggled to believe that some of them were even sapient purely based off of looks. With how varied species in Federation are, and how some of us admittedly aren’t too far physiologically from our more primal ancestors.
Among other topics, she asked me to tell her interesting things, which I didn’t know much of. I told her about Venlil Prime’s tidally locked status, a rarity among habitable planets, much less homeworlds for species. I told her about the unique architecture of Mileau, designed to accommodate both species of regular size and dossur themselves. I told her about Colia medical academies, some of the most beautiful medical facilities in the galaxy.
I wish I was more well-travelled, but I just wasn’t. My whole life, I never left Nishtal until the extermination fleet took me despite my protests. That may have been what saved my life...
“Hey! Stop that!”
I flinched as I heard the child yell, but quickly realized that it wasn’t directed at me. Instead, Rosie was rushing down towards the chicken flock, breaking up the fight in which the loner was being pecked by a few larger chickens. As the human child approached, the birds stopped their infighting and scattered in different directions, crowing in loud panic and discontent. On instinct, I found myself rushing towards the child, forgetting about translation entirely.
“What are you doing?! Don’t touch them!”
I didn’t want her to hurt the cattle accidentally, and I didn’t want her to get hurt by the angry birds in return. But, it seems like the moment the birds scattered, she was satisfied with her actions and turned back to me, wearing another one of her happy smiles.
“Sorry, Mr. Krekos, I just saw chickens being mean. Bad chickens.” She explained.
I was baffled. Why would she interfere like that? When I tried that back when I was just starting, that got me pecked! But with her, the birds just scattered. What if they pecked her?
I took the pad out again and started typing quickly.
“That was dangerous. Why did you do that? What if they attacked you? Why are you even interfering in their natural dynamics?”, questions flowed out of my pad with an artificial human voice.
The girl simply giggled.
“They’re chickens! They aren’t dangerous. They don’t peck that painful and I’ve been scratched worse before. And I have to stop it because bullying is wrong.”
Then she actually noticed that the one that was being attacked wandered close. She casually approached it from behind, the blind spot and just reached down and grabbed it, picking the bird up. I was ready to rush to help the bird when...
“Mwah! There, all better.”
She did a human ‘kiss’ on the back of the cattle bird’s neck before releasing it, the surprise of it causing it to rush off. I knew what kisses were, I’ve seen enough of them between Lena and Reginald, but I believed they were gestures of intimate affection, not... what was even that?
It seems Rosie noticed my confusion as she explained.
“You gotta kiss it so it heals better! That’s what mom taught me.” The child displayed that smile of hers shamelessly. With how much I was being exposed to it, it almost wasn’t unnerving anymore. Still, it was interesting to learn that kisses are seen as something that helps wounds. I guess some species do have saliva with mild antiseptic properties, wouldn’t be too out there to assume humans are the same. And if that’s the case, maybe that’s how the kissing tradition started? Exchange of protective fluid between lovers?
“I see. I did not know that.” I responded before letting my puffed feathers relax. Okay, this whole ‘watching a human child’ thing is turning out to somehow be even more stressful than I expected at first.
“Wait, Mr. Krekos, what time is it?” She suddenly asked, looking up at the sky.
“It’s nearly twelve.” I respond, holopad having a convenient clock for local time.
“Oh no! I need to be home soon! Was nice seeing you Mr. Krekos gotta go bye!”
Before I had even a chance at typing out an answer or my own goodbye, the child sprinted away and back towards the entrance. I had to take flight just to keep up, and even then she just turned around, waved her arm at me and then kept sprinting down the road after leaving the gate. I simply offered a small wave of a wing back before locking the gate again. I suppose it is hard to keep track of time without a device or clock nearby...
Well, at least I had the usual peace and quiet now. And learned a bit more about the creatures I was in charge of. I should really try to deal with my aversion to looking things up on the human internet...
Just as I was about to head back out towards the yard, I heard a loud car horn, a familiar one, getting my attention. Lena’s car. There they were, signaling me, probably having spotted me at the gate from afar. Deciding to make use of my presence here, and hoping to avoid needing to explain that I had a surprise visitor earlier, I went ahead and opened the large gate, allowing the car to enter.
Once it was parked in the usual space, the doors opened and three people came out. Lena and Reginald were both looking a bit disheveled, but their faces carried these smiles that seemed wider than ever before. And third person... Was a stranger. A human I knew of, but never actually met. As he exited the car, a large bag in one hand, he just stared at me, standing in the front yard...
“...okay, I expected many things when I was told you guys housed a refugee, but not this.”
Oh no. Oh no, he was not one of the ones that was willing to overlook an invader that partook in bombing of his planet being allowed to walk free, of course, Lena and Reginald were the weird ones like that, doesn’t mean their son won’t be... I felt the panic rising as I realized I’d need to return to the camp. Why was I upset about that? This was supposed to just have been a way to make money, but now I have a free education program. Do I need to stay? No, but... Why?! Why do I not want to leave?
“Ken, you said it’s going to be alright no matter what it is, right? Wanted us to keep it a surprise to meet a new friend?” Lena’s voice. She should have told him, that’d give me time to prepare why didn’t they give me time why.
“No, no problems, just, really surprised, that’s all... uh... hey, buddy, you okay? You’re really... trembly.”
He was approaching me, and instinct took over as I recoiled, before stuttering out my answer.
“I-I’m fine...”
...thankfully translators don’t translate voice cracks. I hope, at least...
“Hey, relax... I have no problem with you being a krakotl, I just didn’t think...” He looks over at Lena and Reginald. “Calm down... I can wear my visor if you want?”
Right. Those things humans use to hide their scary faces from us.
“I... I’m good...”
There was some emotion I struggled to read on the young human’s face, as he sighed and shook his head.
“I screwed this up, I’m sorry. Let... Let me try again.” He straightened out, and adjusted his clothing, before slowly approaching me and giving me a small smile, no teeth showing. “Hello. My name is Kenneth Vince and I'm son of Lena and Reginald Vince. I was told you’re a refugee they took in to help out. It’s nice to meet you. What’s your name?”
That... snapped me out of it. Right... He was... not upset at my existence. He was just very surprised that Lena and Reginald weren’t. That’s a reasonable thing to be surprised about, considering I was surprised about it to this day. I tried to compose myself as I responded.
“My name is Krekos. I live here as... hired help with the cattle. It’s... nice to meet you?”
The smile on Kenneth’s face widens, though he still refrains from showing his teeth. Instead, he extends a hand towards me. A handshake is a human gesture that I found far from comfortable, but I didn’t want to give him a reason to change his mind on acceptability of my existence, so I took it with a wingclaw. He gently took it and held for a few seconds before letting go and sighing again, turning to his parents.
“You know, I always thought you guys would be empty nesters, but I never thought it’d be that literal.”
That got all three of them laughing, as I just tilted my head in confusion. I was fairly sure there were no empty nests in the house until after I adjusted the attic room for my own accommodations. Still, I took the laughter as a sign that the tense moment had fully passed and let my ruffled feathers slowly rest.
“Let’s head inside. Krekos, we’re having dinner, you’re welcome to join us.” Reginald said, picking up Kenneth’s bag. I tilted my head a little and he followed up with elaboration. “We will be having meat... But there’s still going to be stuff you can eat too. It’s a celebration, so I prepared a bit of everything.”
“Dad, you shouldn’t have!” Kenneth responded with embarrassment.
“None of that! Our son returned from the war, alive and a hero, and we can have a celebration. Krekos, I know you’re still... uncertain about meat so you don’t—”
“I’ll join.”
Wait, who said that? And why did they say that in my voice?
Wait, that was me. Why did I say that?
“That’s great to hear! I’ve got some nice steamed broccoli and some vegetarian fried rice as sides that you’ll enjoy!” Reginald smiled at me and I felt myself shrinking into my feathers. That the humans didn’t notice at least, proceeding into the house instead.
Well, looks like I signed my warrant. At least my bag and my epipen were on me in case something at the table triggers the allergy again. Would be rather unfortunate to have it happen two days in a row.
And that’s how, in just ten or so minutes, I found myself sitting at the dining perch, while humans took seats in chairs, all consuming chunks of roasted flesh and somehow managing to also stuff pieces of equally roasted plants in, and converse with one another. You wouldn’t be able to tell on first look, but despite their mouths being relatively small, especially for a predator, it seems they compensate for it by having those be near bottomless in both hunger and small talk.
I am not sure how I managed to shift my focus away from them consuming animal matter in front of me, however vat grown it might have been, and onto their conversation instead, but I succeeded. I suppose that was just part of me going native around predators. Soon, I’ll be the one feasting along with them before I know it, and snacking on those epipens to not die of it.
“So, Fahl? That’s where you were sent after the Battle of Earth?” Lena asked.
“Yeah. From what I heard, we got a light posting compared to guys at Sillis or Mileau. The most I had to deal with was some exterminator insurgents.”
That’s right. Since harchen participated in the Extermination Fleet, they were one of those who were occupied by humans during the war. It makes sense that there was at least some ground resistance.
“Honestly, the worst thing out there was the heat. Not the flamethrower kind, the climate. The place was so damn dry and hot. At least exterminators you could subdue or evade. Not so much with the scorching sun!”
I couldn’t resist a small chuckle at the idea of a predator being more afraid of hot weather than flamethrowers as I slowly pecked at the vegetables on my plate. Thankfully it was set far enough aside from any meat dishes that no contamination should occur, but I was still examining pieces before putting them in my mouth just in case.
Seems like reacting was a mistake though, as that brought Kenneth’s attention onto me. He finished chewing latest piece of flesh and pointed a fork at me.
“So, Krekos... Where are you from? Cradle was my guess, but I do know there were refugees from other places like Sillis too.”
That’s a weird question. Isn’t it kind of to be expected for a krakotl to be from our actual homeworld?”
“I’m from Nishtal.”
“No, no, that’s not what I meant,” Kenneth chuckled, tossing a piece of broccoli into his mouth and swallowing before continuing, “I meant, where did you live? I kind of assumed you were born there, but it’s not like Nishtal had a chance to send refugees out, and if they did, this is the last place they’d be.”
Oh... I caught concerned looks of Lena and Reginald, looking between me and Kenneth from both sides. Not only did they not make him aware that I was a krakotl, they also neglected to mention just how I came by my refugee status... Which was just a legal workaround to grant me asylum without unnecessary complications or establishing undesirable precedent. Legally, I may be a refugee, but practically... I am a defector. Lena and Reginald know that, I told them my story before. And while they were weirdly accepting, Kenneth... Fought extermination fleet here on Earth. Personally.
Still, I wasn’t about to lie. It took a few moments and gathering mental strength to steel myself, and averting my eyes, focusing on the plate of warm vegetables in front of me rather than the human’s anticipating stare before I answered.
“I did live on Nishtal. I... I came with the extermination fleet.” I responded, doing my best to avoid looking at him. I did not want to witness his reaction, for some reason the thought of seeing it weighed heavy on my mind.
“Oh.”
The response was simple, and had no followup. There was no more clinking of cutlery against plates, or chewing. The only thing hanging in the air of the kitchen was silence, weighing down on me. It dragged on and on... until it just got so unbearable I couldn’t take it.
“I-I’m full... Thank you for the meal.” I quickly said, hopping off the perch and stepping out of the kitchen, quickly making my way to the yard and taking flight.
Fresh air of the outside and rush of it as I flew up and gained speed... I missed that. I knew it’s not safe to just fly over other people’s territory, so I corrected my course into doing large sweeping circles over the cattle yard and simply let my wings carry me.
I closed my eyes. With them closed and not focusing on my angle it feels like I’m actually flying away from all the troubles. Away from humans who barely tolerate my existence, away from gojid who see me as worse than a predator, away from Earth and all its incorrigible customs, away from horrid cattle, away from constant memories...
Flying feels nice. It may be a bit harder than it was home, but it’s still possible. I heard that on Venlil Prime or Mileau it’s much harder. But here? Just an extra flap of wings for every few paces and you’re just fine, free to soar the skies...
Slowly I let my eyes open back to the bleak reality. Greenery of surrounding pastures and woods, bright blue skies and farmhouses dotted about here and there greeted me. I lowered my gaze down, focusing on what’s below. There they were, fourteen brown and black dots spread around the enclosed portion of the farm territory. I am not sure how much time I’ve spent flying in circles and trying to forget things but my wings were feeling a tad sore. Then as I just began slow descent, in same circular motion, I noticed that one of the birds, a familiar one, was being chased by several others. Recounting the morning, I tried putting the knowledge to action, and shifted direction of descent, swooping down. To my surprise, that actually worked, as the moment I got close to the ground, the cattle birds all got much louder and scattered in all directions, including the loner. Who, at least this time, got off unharmed. I suppose such pathetic flightless creatures would fear a flying one much more than they would when I just run up to them...
With the fight preemptively broken up, I flutter up to the roof of the cattle house, to my usual position and rested my wings. I didn’t see any movement from the direction of the house, so I suppose the family is still busy unpacking. Since Kenneth joined the military just before the Battle of Earth, and Lena and Reginald only moved here after their actual house in city of New York got destroyed, it’d be the first time the human is seeing what is basically his new home. There was a room set aside for him since before I even moved in, and while there is also a guest room... That one did not have a large enough window to fit through, which did not feel comfortable. So when I asked for a space with a bigger window they only had an attic to offer. They seemed uncomfortable letting me live in a tiny room with slanted roof, but I found such space more comforting than I would have a large room with a window not large enough to fit even one fully spread wing through.
I wonder if Kenneth will need as much renovation as I did? The house is built for humans, but he never lived there before. Will he need to buy a more comfortable bed? Getting a proper nesting setup in place of a bed took a bit of effort, but I figured something out. Human sheets were comfortable enough for such, and sitting perches were thankfully not that hard to get thanks to help from the refugee administration. Maybe that’s the things that Lena went to buy yesterday? Kenneth’s preferred room decor?
I looked up to the sky to see the sun beginning to dim. I am not sure if it was me flying that long, or me losing track of time in my thoughts again, but the sun was beginning to set. I began my usual chores, putting out an evening meal and water for the beasts, and while they feasted, ate some myself. I was a bit hungry, having not properly finished lunch and about to skip dinner, but after the earlier conversation, I’d really rather avoid giving them the opportunity to talk to me.
After the birds had their fill, and by that I mean they emptied the tray as they always do, I let out the call, and they started funneling into the cattle house. The lonely straggler being first to go and hop into its nesting box. I bet tomorrow I will have trouble with getting her out of there again...
I took the moment to gather some eggs the birds left over course of the day, and once that was over and all of them were accounted for, I closed it up. When I flew down over to the house, there wasn’t anyone by the back door thankfully, so I just left eggs there, returned the basket, and returned to my room through the window.
Well, at least I didn’t get nearly killed today... That’s nice I guess?
I was about to check my holopad when there was a knock on the door. I approached and opened it to see... Kenneth. Standing in the doorway.
“Uh, hi, Krekos. I just, uh... Wanted to apologize again. I really wish mom and dad told me everything ahead of time... I just want you to know, I have no problems with you whatsoever, yeah? It’s just. Surprising, I guess, to hear all that. I didn’t think there were any defectors from the fleet at all... Just. Uh, please don’t worry about me?” He offered me a small smile, showing his canines before quickly correcting himself and doing a closed-lip one. “I didn’t mean to bring up bad memories or make you feel unwelcome.”
I had to take a moment to contemplate his words. Was Lena and Reginald’s weirdness hereditary? He almost reminded me of how Reginald talked to me early on, with constant stumbling over the words, as well as constant reassurances that he is fine with me being here. Couple that with failing to avoid predatory mannerisms like eye contact and smiles like Lena tends to and you get this human. But most importantly and least understandably, there was the general fact of him and them just... welcoming me. I couldn’t understand why. I should be one sorry to them.
“N-No, it’s fine... I’m sorry for... intruding on you and your family.”
“No, no, dude, you’re fine! I mean, hell, I was considering entering one of those exchange programs before the bombings happened, and even after, well, I did my best at Fahl to be the perfect friendly soldier just there to make sure no more bombs drop on my home and not kill or conquer anyone. And then mom told me your story, and I can’t believe it... Just... If you have any issues, feel free to tell me. I’m not one of those racist pricks that are too pussy to even call themselves HF anymore because they know they’ll get their teeth knocked. I get that there aren't good or bad species, just people. And you seem like a decent guy if mom and dad’s judgment is to be trusted.” His smile widened, though it was clear from tension on his face that he had to take conscious effort to keep teeth hidden. “So, what I said earlier stands. Friends, right?”
He extends hand forward, for a second time today. I wasn’t sure if I knew this human long enough to call him a friend... Any human really. But it also seems like human definition of ‘friends’ is anyone they’re cordial and peaceful with. Which is weird. You’d think translators would properly use ‘acquaintance’ for that.
Still... We will be living in the same house now. I can’t just say no, and... I can’t come up with a reason to say no. Even him being a predator and a human is not something I could really say I object to, considering how... mundane that became to me over my time here.
So, with naught on my mind but acceptance of the situation, I extended my wing and grasped his hand with my claw. This time he actually gripped it tightly and moved it up and down, as I saw other humans do occasionally.
“Yeah... I guess that’d be for the best.” I responded, shrugging off the hesitation. Fresh start for a third time, I guess?
The human grinned, forgetting to hide his teeth entirely, but I was ready for it somehow and avoided outwardly reacting.
“Cool! Anyway, I’ll try to get some shuteye early, I couldn’t sleep on the overnight flight home. See ya!”
And with that he left. Well... That meeting went well I suppose?
I returned to my nest and picked up my holopad, returning to what I was doing. And there it was, something I awaited every day. A notification that I was messaged on mailing app. Opening the letter revealed the schedule for the study program. Which... only had one day marked on it. And a note that the rest of it will be figured out ‘as we go from there’. So it’s not a schedule, it’s just a mark for the day of the first meeting.
While a bit underwhelming, it was still exciting. It would be an all-alien class so I wouldn’t have to deal with humans’ incomprehensibility nearly as much, and it would allow me to finally return to pursuing what I actually dreamt of. Even if I wasn’t entirely sure that was precisely what I wanted after everything that happened, it was at least something for me to move towards.
...just two days until start. I wonder if there’s some required reading to prepare?
2024.05.19 08:27 Important-Weird-883 Please read carefully - can you identify or relate?
I am very different from many people…ok, before I continue, full disclosure: what I am about to reveal are honest, true, and completely real. I do not sugarcoat anything, I never hold back the way I feel when I have something to say. However, I do not see any point in most casual conversation because the truth is, NO ONE LISTENS. People in general do not pay attention to anything but their own thoughts.
I just started a new job. The first day we had orientation where we learned about the history of the company, the benefits, how the payroll system works, etc. i listened to the whole thing. During our training a few things came up that were discussed in orientation but the people who were with me had no recollection of those things. The may as well not have been there.
One of the girls who started the same day I did has gone from nice and friendly towards me to snapping at me. She makes unsolicited comments during conversations that she’s a part of but not actively participating in. The other girl who just started and I were talking about unemployment and social security benefits, I asked “how do you get social security?” and suddenly, out of nowhere and not directed towards her, she snapped “None of your business!!!”
Umm. Wait, was that comment for me? First, I wasn’t asking you and second, that was not an inappropriate question. I wasn’t asking how much money she makes or how she qualifies for government assistance. A few days later I was looking at a ball cap hanging from the side of my neighbors cubicle. I touched the bill of the hat and suddenly heard “don’t touch Ms. Judith’s stuff!” Wow. That time I shot her a look that said you should probably stay over there because I do NOT do drama.
Clearly she’s dealing with issues at home, she said she’s getting married but never discusses it or the man she’s planning on marrying. I honestly feel for this girl. She’s trapped in a situation that she feels she can’t get out of. I’m letting her be, and that resulted in her leaning on me and spilling her guts out, but just a few hours later she snapped at me again. I would never treat her with anything but kindness and respect. Lashing out at me doesn’t have much to do with me, I know that.
So many people are just mean. I can’t treat people that way. They say you should treat everyone the way you wish to be treated. If that were the case I’d be treating everyone so much better than myself.
submitted by Important-Weird-883 to Life [link] [comments]
I just started a new job. The first day we had orientation where we learned about the history of the company, the benefits, how the payroll system works, etc. i listened to the whole thing. During our training a few things came up that were discussed in orientation but the people who were with me had no recollection of those things. The may as well not have been there.
One of the girls who started the same day I did has gone from nice and friendly towards me to snapping at me. She makes unsolicited comments during conversations that she’s a part of but not actively participating in. The other girl who just started and I were talking about unemployment and social security benefits, I asked “how do you get social security?” and suddenly, out of nowhere and not directed towards her, she snapped “None of your business!!!”
Umm. Wait, was that comment for me? First, I wasn’t asking you and second, that was not an inappropriate question. I wasn’t asking how much money she makes or how she qualifies for government assistance. A few days later I was looking at a ball cap hanging from the side of my neighbors cubicle. I touched the bill of the hat and suddenly heard “don’t touch Ms. Judith’s stuff!” Wow. That time I shot her a look that said you should probably stay over there because I do NOT do drama.
Clearly she’s dealing with issues at home, she said she’s getting married but never discusses it or the man she’s planning on marrying. I honestly feel for this girl. She’s trapped in a situation that she feels she can’t get out of. I’m letting her be, and that resulted in her leaning on me and spilling her guts out, but just a few hours later she snapped at me again. I would never treat her with anything but kindness and respect. Lashing out at me doesn’t have much to do with me, I know that.
So many people are just mean. I can’t treat people that way. They say you should treat everyone the way you wish to be treated. If that were the case I’d be treating everyone so much better than myself.
2024.05.19 08:24 TheLotStore How to Find Cheap Land in Arkansas: Tips and Tricks
 | How to Find Cheap Land in Arkansas: Tips and Tricks submitted by TheLotStore to u/TheLotStore [link] [comments] Arkansas, recognized as the Natural State, offers plentiful opportunities for individuals interested in investing in real estate. With its varied landscapes, cost-effective lifestyle, and thriving job sector, Arkansas presents a perfect environment to acquire economic property. Whether your aim is constructing your ideal residence, commencing a farm, or investing in real estate, numerous options are at your disposal to uncover budget-friendly property in Arkansas. In this piece, we will delve into the strategies and secrets to aid you in your quest for inexpensive property in this charming state. The initial step in locating economical property in Arkansas is setting your financial plan and defining your requirements for a piece of property. Are you searching for land for agricultural, hunting, or recreational purposes? Are you interested in a sizable plot of land or a smaller plot to construct a dwelling? Once you have a clear vision of your objectives, you can kick off your search with specific criteria in mind. Engaging with a local real estate agent specializing in land transactions is one of the optimal methods to pinpoint cost-effective property in Arkansas. They possess insight into the local market, access to listings, and proficiency in negotiating transactions. A local agent can assist you in identifying properties that align with your requirements and provide advice on the most favorable regions for investment. They can also guide you through the acquisition process to ensure you secure a fair deal. Aside from collaborating with a real estate agent, you can also scout online for property listings in Arkansas. Numerous real estate platforms focus on land sales, such as LandWatch, Land And Farm, and Zillow. These websites enable you to filter land options based on criteria like size, location, and price range. You can set up alerts to notify you when new properties meeting your specifications become available. During your online property search, target listings that have lingered on the market for an extended period. Sellers with long-standing listings may be more inclined to negotiate on pricing. Additionally, consider exploring properties up for auction. Auctions present a fruitful avenue for discovering affordable land, with properties frequently selling below market value. Prior to participating, ensure you grasp the auction process and comprehend the terms and conditions before making a bid. Another avenue for unearthing economical property in Arkansas is exploring distressed properties. Distressed properties, encompassing foreclosures or short sales, often come with discounted price tags. While these properties may necessitate some enhancements, they can prove to be a lucrative asset with judicious investment. You can scout for distressed properties on real estate websites and via local banking institutions and credit unions. After identifying potential properties, conducting comprehensive due diligence is crucial prior to extending an offer. Consider engaging a land surveyor to define property boundaries and flag any potential concerns like easements or zoning limitations. Additionally, research the locality where the land is situated, including insights into the local education system, crime statistics, and property valuations. When tendering an offer on a piece of land, be prepared to engage in negotiations with the seller. Initiate discussions with a modest offer and be willing to step away if the seller demonstrates reluctance to negotiate. Offering to make a swift cash payment or expedited closure can serve as potent incentives for the seller to accept your offer. Ensure all agreements are documented in writing and encompass contingencies like professional inspections and financing approval. In tandem with negotiations, explore financing options for securing land in Arkansas. You can apply for a conventional mortgage, a specialized land loan, or contemplate seller financing. Seller financing can be an advantageous route for acquiring budget-friendly land, enabling you to make monthly payments directly to the seller sans involving a bank. Scrutinize the financing agreement terms, encompassing interest rates, repayment structures, and penalties for early settlement. Post land acquisition, contemplate the long-term investment potential. If your land purchase is oriented towards development or investment, weigh the prospects for appreciation over time. For personal utilization like home construction or farming ventures, assess the costs associated with enhancements such as land clearing, infrastructure development, and permit procurement. Factor in these expenses, formulate a budget, and chart a clear plan for land utilization. In conclusion, procuring inexpensive property in Arkansas is feasible with diligent investigation, thorough preparation, and adept negotiation prowess. By collaborating with a local real estate specialist, scouring online listings, exploring distressed properties, and pondering financing alternatives, you can unearth economic land that meets your financial plan and aspirations. Undertake meticulous research, engage in seller negotiations, and chart a definitive plan for land utilization. Armed with the right approach, you are poised to acquire a slice of the enigmatic Natural State and relish all that Arkansas has to offer. View our amazing property deals at TheLotStore.Com. Additional Information: https://thelotstore.com/how-to-find-cheap-land-in-arkansas-tips-and-tricks/?feed_id=10905 |
2024.05.19 08:17 Dramatic-Sprinkles55 Please help my family - husband in hospital
Husband is in hospital - Need help.
My husband is in the hospital about to officially receive his fourth cancer diagnosis in nine years. I am his caretaker as his NHL is terminal and he can’t always handle things on his own. I had two work from home jobs I lost late last year and was starting a new one when the guy I was working for left the state for a family emergency last month. Haven’t found anything since. I had us on a strict budget but the extra medical stuff the past month is killing is. Three ER visits, a surgery, and now a hospitalization. We get disability but don’t get paid again until the third. I have $45 to care for my family of four between now and then. Our internet is about to be shut off, I need gas in my car, and we need groceries. Most of all I just need to have gas to get to him and would really like to be able to take my kids and let them eat at the hospital cafeteria tomorrow. It helps break up the monotony of the hospital for them but they haven’t seen their dad in a few days and my autistic son isn’t coping well.
My PayPal is kworsham33@gmail.com and I have Venmo and Cashapp as well. I just have a card tied to my PayPal so it’s easiest. Any help at all is appreciated.
submitted by Dramatic-Sprinkles55 to donationrequest [link] [comments]
My husband is in the hospital about to officially receive his fourth cancer diagnosis in nine years. I am his caretaker as his NHL is terminal and he can’t always handle things on his own. I had two work from home jobs I lost late last year and was starting a new one when the guy I was working for left the state for a family emergency last month. Haven’t found anything since. I had us on a strict budget but the extra medical stuff the past month is killing is. Three ER visits, a surgery, and now a hospitalization. We get disability but don’t get paid again until the third. I have $45 to care for my family of four between now and then. Our internet is about to be shut off, I need gas in my car, and we need groceries. Most of all I just need to have gas to get to him and would really like to be able to take my kids and let them eat at the hospital cafeteria tomorrow. It helps break up the monotony of the hospital for them but they haven’t seen their dad in a few days and my autistic son isn’t coping well.
My PayPal is kworsham33@gmail.com and I have Venmo and Cashapp as well. I just have a card tied to my PayPal so it’s easiest. Any help at all is appreciated.
2024.05.19 08:16 Dramatic-Sprinkles55 Husband is in hospital - Need help.
My husband is in the hospital about to officially receive his fourth cancer diagnosis in nine years. I am his caretaker as his NHL is terminal and he can’t always handle things on his own. I had two work from home jobs I lost late last year and was starting a new one when the guy I was working for left the state for a family emergency last month. Haven’t found anything since. I had us on a strict budget but the extra medical stuff the past month is killing is. Three ER visits, a surgery, and now a hospitalization. We get disability but don’t get paid again until the third. I have $45 to care for my family of four between now and then. Our internet is about to be shut off, I need gas in my car, and we need groceries. Most of all I just need to have gas to get to him and would really like to be able to take my kids and let them eat at the hospital cafeteria tomorrow. It helps break up the monotony of the hospital for them but they haven’t seen their dad in a few days and my autistic son isn’t coping well.
My PayPal is kworsham33@gmail.com and I have Venmo and Cashapp as well. I just have a card tied to my PayPal so it’s easiest. Any help at all is appreciated.
submitted by Dramatic-Sprinkles55 to Donation [link] [comments]
My PayPal is kworsham33@gmail.com and I have Venmo and Cashapp as well. I just have a card tied to my PayPal so it’s easiest. Any help at all is appreciated.