Hi everyone,
Seeking some assistance/opinions on the best way to move forward.
Background info *Moved to Japan 3 years ago, have been employed the whole time *Currently working in a foreign company and since I couldn't move prefectures to continue working, I will be exiting the company as 'agreed resignation' based on company circumstances 会社都合 late July, HR saying I should be able to receive hello work quickly *Also working freelance, avg around 8-12万 a month (possibility of taking on more projects due to losing full time job) *Second child due end of november (1st is 2.5yrs old and goes to day-care) *Spouse (Japanese) self-employed running business in the house (english teaching to kids) and does some freelancing to round out the income to an average salary *We also paying house mortgage
Problem With the 2nd child due in November and my wife self-employed and unable to take too much time off, the initial plan was that I would take paternity leave until the 2nd child can go to child care (likely from April 2026) and then return to work as normal. With less than 6 months until birth, if I was successful in finding a new job, I feel like it's unlikely I can take paternity leave or extended time off as I will still be in the probationary period.
So I'm stuck feeling like is it better to; A) Survive on freelance and try to pick up other gyoumu itaku work until the baby is born and then reduce the projects and try to balance it around daddy duties. Alternatively, not sure if there is any financial support or if i can claim unemployment benefits from hellowork at this time *is it possible to delay the application at hello work since the benefit period is only 90 days? *usually city hall pays some financial aid for having kids, but is there anything else that can be accessed as I won't be able to start a new job B) Try to find any kind of job and continue freelancing outside of work to maximize savings until the baby is born and leave the company if they can't permit the time off or guarantee a job on return C) Try to find any kind of job that has more flexible shift times so that it doesn't clash with wife's work in the afternoons/evenings (like factory work) and not take paternity leave or try to around at least a month or two of unpaid leave at the start D) Claim unemployment benefits and delay freelancing work as not allowed to do any kind of work whilst receiving hellowork - i've seen posters say previously that if you are freelancing or planning to open a business hellowork wont pay anything, no matter how small the income E) Something else
My priorities are definitely to help my wife sustain her business and can't pressure her to take time off. We also have minimal support from family for caring during the times we need (most of her family works afternoons/evenings too).
Thank you for any advice or suggestions in advance.

On the 14th of April, I signed up for a Spocket free trial. I have screenshots of the sign up pages that clearly state 'Try it for free' for all the plans, monthly or yearly. So I proceeded to sign up, with each page still clearly stating that I am signing up for a 14-day trial. Throughout the sign up, I enter my Amex gold card details on the payment page and just continue through until I have an account fully set up - I didn't think much of it at the time.
A couple of days past, after I've signed up, and I was just generally checking in on my Amex banking app. This is where I saw a charge for £250 from Spocket that is dated on the 14th. It appears they have charged since the very first day of sign up for a full year. Maybe a day or so later, another charge for £320 comes through also.
On the 18th I wrote Spocket an email telling them that they've charged me twice for a full year membership when I only signed up for a 14 day trial. They didn't seem to care, only replying that their manager would be in touch.
I tried raising a dispute with Amex for both charges, providing them with all the screenshots and emails to Spocket support as evidence, but they were not helpful - informing me that the card I used is only a charge card, not a credit card, so it doesn't offer the same Section 75 protections. Amex also said that because Spocket sent their Ts&Cs saying that they do not refund yearly memberships, they have to abide by that. Amex seem to be ignoring the fact that I signed up to a free trial.
Since reporting Spocket to Amex for the dispute I wasn't able to log into my Spocket account for a few days after the dispute outcome. When I was able to sign into Spocket yesterday, my account shows as a free plan with hardly any benefits, but I've been charged a full year of premium membership, and I'm now stuck.
What else can I do to try to get this money back? I think Spocket is a Canadian company, but I'm in England.

hi all! i currently work an 8-5 job monday through friday making $16 an hour, in oregon so it’s really not much. i’m a 20F about to move out with a few people and get a car so my expenses will be greatly higher.
i’ve been job searching and found a job starting at 18 and another starting at 50,000 salary. i tried to schedule interviews for evening/weekends but, of course, like most things, times to do interviews are between 9-5 monday to friday lol
i have an interview at 12, another at 4, and going to the dmv as well to take care of something (because, of course, the dmv is only open monday-friday as well).
it’s a bit late notice as the interviews are on thursday, so not enough time to ask for the day off. i work at a daycare so my attendance is kinda important.
im planning on giving my boss as much notice as possible without being guilted into going in. my plan is to say tomorrow evening that i’m not going in.
my parents advised me to take a half day (but with my job that’s kinda impossible, especially with only a days notice) so i’m asking you, internet parents, what do i say to my boss without too much detail but also not too vague? don’t want to lie about a death in the family or something because that’s bad karma

Hey, guys! Can’t believe we’re almost halfway through 2024. I was wondering, are there any major sustainability goals/priorities that you had at the start of this year or may be a few years ago? How are those goals holding up?
Like for you it might be something else like trying to reduce plastic use or supporting ethical brands who take care of animals and labors. My goal for the year was to swap my entire grooming and shower routine products. with sustainable products and locally-sourced brands. I was doing really well until April, when I got really busy and couldn’t plan my purchases carefully.
how you’re all doing or dealing? Could you please share your experiences with sustainable priorities you've set and have been following for years without any problems? If there are any issues, do share them too.

As the title explains– where should I get tested for herpes? I don’t have a PCP or a gynecologist at the moment (I just got a new job with new insurance). Where can I get tested asap? I tried Planned Parenhood but they weren’t in my network and were trying to charge me $300+ for the test. There aren’t many STD clinics in my area…. The website for United Health is down… I’m so upset and frustrated. I don’t know where to go and I need to get this swabbed asap. :( I’m nervous about going to an urgent care, but would they do it there?

Hey, guys! Can’t believe we’re almost halfway through 2024. I was wondering, are there any major sustainability goals/priorities that you had at the start of this year or may be a few years ago? How are those goals holding up?
Like for you it might be something else like trying to reduce plastic use or supporting ethical brands. My goal for the year was to swap my entire grooming and shower routine products. with sustainable products and locally-sourced brands. I was doing really well until April, when I got really busy and couldn’t plan my purchases carefully.
how you’re all doing or dealing? Could you please share your experiences with sustainable priorities you've set and have been following for years without any problems? If there are any issues, do share them too.

We have a 6 week old and a 20 month old toddler. Our toddler got way off schedule with his sleep during my entire postpartum healing phase while his dad and family were taking care of him for me (I’m a SAHM). His naps were getting later and later, until he’d be up too late at night, or sometimes he wouldn’t get a nap at all.
I made the mistake of not sleep training the toddler (I did TRY several times since the toddler was born, but didn’t keep it up for various reasons), so he learned to fall asleep either in the stroller and I would transfer him to the crib, or fall asleep in bed while we cuddled and we would nap together or I would transfer him to the bed. This always worked fine for me, before baby #2!
He sleeps great through the night, about 12 hours every time! Especially if he skips his nap, he falls asleep right away. I tried not letting him skip naps though for his health.
But now he is NOT going down for his naps, no matter what trick I try that used to work— unfortunately the newborn is fussy and always interrupts my attempts (I have to keep him in a carrier and bounce him to calm him).
Toddler is showing signs he still could use a nap, BUT I’m getting so stressed out wasting hours out of the day and so much energy trying to get him to take his nap!
Can I just drop his afternoon nap, do an earlier bedtime, and see if he can handle it? Would I be a bad mom??

*Spoiler tag bc of mention of suicide just in case When I get new blades I'm temporarily not gonna use IamSober just so I can get worst. I hate myself, I hate my body.. I'm the reason my house is a fucking nightmare. I should die, maybe I should attempt to kms when I get them. I'm a nobody, I don't think I matter to anyone or made an impact to anyone's life at all.
I'm gonna be the problem to anyone who wants to be close to me, I'm a horrible sister and child, I should definitely kill myself. I only cause problems and stress to everyone around me.
All I have most of the time is the internet where I post artworks, vent art and abt my thoughts and what I do and plan to do on my social platforms. It's pathetic and waste of time bc I'm almost 18 and graduating. I don't even want to go to college bc of my mental state.
I'm scared that what if the stress takes hold on me and I actually kill myself in the near future. I don't even know why I'm scared of this happening when I actually want to do it!! I don't actually mind if I stay in a psych ward for the rest of my life.
Who care about love, relationships, being with someone who loves you for the rest of your life, I don't think I can have that bc of me. I give up! I don't care anymore!! I hate falling in love, I hate the false hope that it gives me.
I'm a pathetic waste of life who spends most of their time on the internet to talk to ppl with the same problem as me and maybe became worst bc of it. A child who is a fucking nightmare in their house and a horrible sibling and a nobody to the people they talk to. I should just kill myself at this point, it's all going downhill and I don't see a spike of ever going up.

Hey, guys! Can’t believe we’re almost halfway through 2024. I was wondering, are there any major sustainability goals/priorities that you had at the start of this year or may be a few years ago? How are those goals holding up?
Like for you it might be something else like trying to reduce plastic use or supporting ethical brands. My goal for the year was to swap my entire grooming and shower routine products. with sustainable products and locally-sourced brands. I was doing really well until April, when I got really busy and couldn’t plan my purchases carefully.
how you’re all doing or dealing? Could you please share your experiences with sustainable priorities you've set and have been following for years without any problems? If there are any issues, do share them too.

Hey, guys! Can’t believe we’re almost halfway through 2024. I was wondering, are there any major sustainability goals/priorities that you had at the start of this year or may be a few years ago? How are those goals holding up?
Like for you it might be something else like trying to reduce plastic use or supporting ethical brands. My goal for the year was to swap my entire grooming and shower routine products. with sustainable products and locally-sourced brands. I was doing really well until April, when I got really busy and couldn’t plan my purchases carefully.
how you’re all doing or dealing? Could you please share your experiences with sustainable priorities you've set and have been following for years without any problems? If there are any issues, do share them too.

• Starting off, get rid of your legendary shards. They wont carry over to final shape. Use them in any way you see fit and worthwhile (e.g. Phantasmal Fragments, raid banners, etc)
  
• Get Superblack, it wont be here after final shape.
  
• Brave weapons, while not leaving, wont be as easily focusable. And the shinies (>! Even if i personally dont care for them !<) wont be obtainable at all
  
• Season Red Borders: Many people complained about missing out before lightfall launched, you have 1 week to get as many red borders as you can. These weapons may not be as easily obtainable after FS release
  
• Material Grinding: Asc Shards, Asc Alloys, so on and so forth are just as important now.
  
• Inv cleanse: especially if you plan to do legend campaign, there will be alot of drops to pick up (even if just infusion fodder)
  
• Read up on changes: theres lots changing, make sure you know what wont be as viable and what will be better. Change builds accordingly
  
• Exotic Missions: Avalon (Vexcalibur), the Wicked Implement mission, and Starcrossed (Wish Keeper) wont be available immediately when final shape launches.
  
• Pantheon: i dont class this as super important, because while yes, it does give great loot, and an amazing title. Its not always must haves
  
• Bounties: Zavala, Shaxx and Drifter bounties wont be around in final shape, cash them out now.
  
• Fashion: Last but not least, if we are going into the end of a saga, gotta look good.
  

If i miss anything, just let me know.

Hey, guys! Can’t believe we’re almost halfway through 2024. I was wondering, are there any major sustainability goals/priorities that you had at the start of this year or may be a few years ago? How are those goals holding up?
Like for you it might be something else like trying to reduce plastic use or supporting ethical brands. My goal for the year was to swap my entire grooming and shower routine products. with sustainable products and locally-sourced brands. I was doing really well until April, when I got really busy and couldn’t plan my purchases carefully.
how you’re all doing or dealing? Could you please share your experiences with sustainable priorities you've set and have been following for years without any problems? If there are any issues, do share them too.

I just got offered a job in Jacksonville & it seems like I’m going to be moving. However I have never been to Jacksonville so Reddit please help me.
Preferences:

Safe & Secure At least 30 minutes from 32209 (Mid-westside) Close to water but I do need to be careful with my budget Some walkablity is a plus but not a requirement

Any tips on where I should start to look for where to live?
(I am planning on a trip within the next week to look at some of these places in person as well)
Edit - I’m hoping to spend max $1300/month

Obligatory “not a social worker” - I’m a jail support case manager. Most I’ve got is a BA in criminal justice, I’m 25, and this is my first job in the social work field (been here 7 months).
I came into this knowing that it’s impossibly hard for people to access resources, especially housing. But I (maybe naively) thought that my privilege/position in the field would allow me to have access to more knowledge and resources, so I would be better equipped to help my clients. Definitely not the case, and my org has no connections to housing or support to offer me, so I’m kinda figuring this out on my own here.
I just met with a client who asked for my help in setting up housing. He’s in a recovery program, and I could not reach him or anyone there for weeks. I didn’t know his discharge date until a few days ago, and he was supposed to be discharged this week. Because of this, I wasn’t able to find a place for my client in that short of a timeline. Of course, the other options are shelters (to be placed in programs), or a halfway house. So my client opted to extend the stay in recovery to give us more time to find a stable living arrangement.
My client was understandably frustrated and upset that this situation happened the way it did, and he seemed to blame me. He said that he was disappointed that I wasn’t able to find housing for him, insinuated that I didn’t care about him and that he’s just paperwork to me, that I didn’t try enough to get in contact, and that this all sucked more because he believed in me.
I know I truly did try to help him to the absolute best of my ability. I know I still plan to. But this was really hard to hear and I’m having trouble not beating myself up about it. Has anyone dealt with this? How do you dust yourself off and keep going? How do you prepare your clients for the ridiculous barriers of bureaucracy without deflecting accountability from yourself?
Thank you❤️

I’m going to bleach and dye my black, low porosity, curly hair for the first time! I’m doing like a brown balayage and the salon uses goldwell as their bond builder which is unfortunate as I heard olaplex and k18 are the way to go, but it’s my best option.
My current routine is just shampoo & deep conditioner & few drops of argan oil as a leave-in (all protein free), then air dry.
So I’m wondering how should I change my routine / what to introduce to care for it? I’m planning on switching to a protein-containing conditioner and using olaplex n3 weekly. Any better suggestions? Should I still go for an in-salon k18 treatment afterwards?

Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Las Vegas is a three-day music festival that features a variety of electronic dance music (EDM) artists. It’s a great chance to dance the night away and see some of your favorite DJs. But it’s important to remember that EDC is also a crowded and intense environment. To help you stay safe and have a great time, the Las Vegas personal injury lawyers Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Las Vegas is a three-day music festival that features a variety of electronic dance music (EDM) artists. It’s a great chance to dance the night away and see some of your favorite DJs. But it’s important to remember that EDC is also a crowded and intense environment. To help you stay safe and have a great time, the Las Vegas personal injury lawyers here at ER Injury Attorneys have put together five important EDC safety tips:

1. Plan Ahead

Get your tickets ASAP. EDC tickets tend to sell out quickly, so be sure to get yours early. This will help you avoid the stress of trying to find last-minute tickets.
Book your accommodations early. EDC is a major event in Las Vegas, so hotels tend to fill up quickly and rates can go up. Book your accommodations early to ensure you have a place to stay and get the best possible rate.
Research the festival grounds. The EDC venue is massive, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the layout before you go. This will help you save time finding the stages, restrooms, and other amenities.
Create a meeting spot. With so many people at EDC, it’s easy to get separated from your friends. Create a meeting spot in case you get lost and are without cell service.

2. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water. It’s important to stay hydrated at EDC, especially in the hot Las Vegas sun. Bring a refillable water bottle and fill it up often. There are also water stations located throughout the festival grounds.
Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol. Sugary drinks and alcohol can dehydrate you. Stick to water, drinks with electrolytes, or use your own hydration additives. If you do choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation and be sure to eat food as well and stay hydrated.

3. Pace Yourself

Don’t try to do too much. There’s a lot to see and do at EDC, but it’s important to pace yourself. Don’t try to see every single set or dance all night long. Take breaks throughout the day to rest and cool off.
Find a shady spot. If you start to feel overwhelmed, find a shady spot to relax and cool off. This will help you avoid heat illness which can be fatal. There are usually tents and hydration stations set up throughout the festival grounds that you can use for shade.

4. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Keep an eye on your belongings. EDC is a crowded environment, so it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings. Don’t bring anything you can’t afford to lose.
Be aware of your surroundings. Be aware of the people around you and be careful of pickpockets. If you see something suspicious, report it to security.
Use the buddy system. Go to EDC with a group of friends and look out for each other.

5. Dress for the Weather

Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking and dancing at EDC, so be sure to wear comfortable, safe shoes.
Wear sunscreen. Even if it’s cloudy, the sun’s rays can still be strong. Be sure to wear sunscreen to protect yourself from sunburn.
Bring layers. The weather in Las Vegas can change quickly, so it’s a good idea to bring layers of clothing. The current forecast calls for temperatures in the 90s during the day, but may dip into the 60s at night.

Injured During EDC? ER Injury Attorneys Is Here for You

If you’ve been injured at EDC, the team here at ER Injury Attorneys is available to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your free case evaluation today by calling us at [702-878-7878](tel:7028787878) or by using LiveChat. You can also fill out a contact form to get started. ER Injury Attorneys represents accident victims throughout Southern Nevada, including Henderson, Summerlin, Pahrump, Boulder City, Laughlin, and beyond. Book your free case evaluation and consultation today and get the peace of mind you need.

The information on this blog is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to serve as legal advice for an individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create an attorney-client relationship nor does viewing this material constitute an attorney-client relationship.

BOOKMARK THE PERMALINK.here at ER Injury Attorneys have put together five important EDC safety tips:

1. Plan Ahead

Get your tickets ASAP. EDC tickets tend to sell out quickly, so be sure to get yours early. This will help you avoid the stress of trying to find last-minute tickets.
Book your accommodations early. EDC is a major event in Las Vegas, so hotels tend to fill up quickly and rates can go up. Book your accommodations early to ensure you have a place to stay and get the best possible rate.
Research the festival grounds. The EDC venue is massive, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the layout before you go. This will help you save time finding the stages, restrooms, and other amenities.
Create a meeting spot. With so many people at EDC, it’s easy to get separated from your friends. Create a meeting spot in case you get lost and are without cell service.

2. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water. It’s important to stay hydrated at EDC, especially in the hot Las Vegas sun. Bring a refillable water bottle and fill it up often. There are also water stations located throughout the festival grounds.
Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol. Sugary drinks and alcohol can dehydrate you. Stick to water, drinks with electrolytes, or use your own hydration additives. If you do choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation and be sure to eat food as well and stay hydrated.

3. Pace Yourself

Don’t try to do too much. There’s a lot to see and do at EDC, but it’s important to pace yourself. Don’t try to see every single set or dance all night long. Take breaks throughout the day to rest and cool off.
Find a shady spot. If you start to feel overwhelmed, find a shady spot to relax and cool off. This will help you avoid heat illness which can be fatal. There are usually tents and hydration stations set up throughout the festival grounds that you can use for shade.

4. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Keep an eye on your belongings. EDC is a crowded environment, so it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings. Don’t bring anything you can’t afford to lose.
Be aware of your surroundings. Be aware of the people around you and be careful of pickpockets. If you see something suspicious, report it to security.
Use the buddy system. Go to EDC with a group of friends and look out for each other.

5. Dress for the Weather

Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking and dancing at EDC, so be sure to wear comfortable, safe shoes.
Wear sunscreen. Even if it’s cloudy, the sun’s rays can still be strong. Be sure to wear sunscreen to protect yourself from sunburn.
Bring layers. The weather in Las Vegas can change quickly, so it’s a good idea to bring layers of clothing. The current forecast calls for temperatures in the 90s during the day, but may dip into the 60s at night.

Injured During EDC? ER Injury Attorneys Is Here for You

If you’ve been injured at EDC, the team here at ER Injury Attorneys is available to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your free case evaluation today by calling us at [702-878-7878](tel:7028787878) or by using LiveChat. You can also fill out a contact form to get started. ER Injury Attorneys represents accident victims throughout Southern Nevada, including Henderson, Summerlin, Pahrump, Boulder City, Laughlin, and beyond. Book your free case evaluation and consultation today and get the peace of mind you need.

The information on this blog is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to serve as legal advice for an individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create an attorney-client relationship nor does viewing this material constitute an attorney-client relationship.

What a wild ride it’s been! After years of infertility and a successful FET, then lots of bleeding from a SCH in the first trimester, things were finally going so well, until they weren’t.
12 days ago I went for a night away with my husband, and when I laid down to go to bed something didn’t feel right. Fluid and mucus had soaked my pants so we went straight to the maternity ward of the hospital we were closest to, and altered my local hospital of what had happened.
Turns out my waters ruptured, which out of all the things I imagined could go wrong in this pregnancy, was not one of them! I’d never heard of PPROM before.
An ultrasound showed that baby is in breech, but still has plenty of amniotic fluid, so the doctors confirmed I would need to stay for at least 48 hours. Did the steroid shots, IV antibiotics and tablet antibiotics straight away.
After the first night they moved me to a private room and told me I would be here for at least 2-3 weeks. A few days after that they confirmed I will be here until 32 weeks. My local hospital doesn’t have the special care unit for babies if they arrive before 32 weeks so the one I am at is holding me to get me to that point. I cannot fault the care, it is probably the only thing keeping me calm each day because of how quickly they acted to make sure things would be ok.
Today we made it to 28 weeks. Still no signs of labour, infection, etc, so I hope we make it to 32 weeks, or later! They’ve told me if we remain stable we might make it to 37, but won’t go past that.
12 days down, 4 weeks to go!
This experience has reminded me to listen when my body tells me to slow down, and to learn to pivot plans. Baby shower - cancelled, maternity shoot - probably will be cancelled. But we can do both of those things after the baby is born instead, just in a slightly different way. Nursery - non existent but we can sort that in the future.
If you’re also in the trenches with a high risk pregnancy of some capacity, sending nothing but positive vibes ❤️

I don't do any PvP, and don't plan on learning anything notable in the near future.
But I enjoy leagues, casual pvp minigames (couldn't win lms for my life, i mean soul wars, castle wars, old fist guthix, etc), and wilderness activities, and the Deadman portals seem pretty fun.
Lots of people seem to be uninterested in deadman, and I've seen a few posts where the attitude and advice from pvmers is "Don't bother", or "you can't do anything against the players pumping 8+ hrs a day. There was a question asking what would players need to take part in deadman, and the vibe was that it's completely irrelevant to them. My clan also seems completely uninterested, and only pking youtubers seem to be excited about it. But surely the event is fun enough to just join in on the chaos and not care? What do i realistically lose? And can i reliably earn a good chunk of cosmetics just doing pvm? And the relics seem close enough to leagues that it's going to be a similar experience just with less skilling tasks?
It seems if I just treat it as a pvm event but with wildy pkers, and a few luck-reliant anti-pking attempts, this is still a lot more enjoyable and worthwhile than spending two weeks doing a 30 hr skilling grind? Maybe I'll even make 20+mil on cosmetics?

hey guys! i know theres a huge amount of moody teenage posts on here but im looking for someone who's been in a similar situation and could give some advice! my friends had been planning a tanning day girl-only hangout for about two weeks which i told my boyfriend about as soon as i was told. i moved to my current highschool late so he understands how important getting invited to things like this are to me. the only things he gets upset over are me talking to other guys in group situations and not being able to control my alcohol at parties. the last time this happened was new years and be both made a deal that i would never drink that much again and put myself in a situation where guys could even think they had a chance of getting with me. besides that everything about our relationship has been perfect. he's caring, funny, my parents love him, and we have similar personalities. he was my first everything and became my genuine best friend over the last year. for the past week we had been fighting a bit, he was stressed over things going on in his life and i was stressing over finals and SAT, which we both ended up taking out on each other. anyways, yesterday at my friends tanning thing, the girls brought out two bottles of vodka and two cases of trulys and white claws. i texted him about this and he didn't care, but i definitely ended up drinking more than i should have. i spent an hour upstairs trying to not throw up but could barely talk or stand. when i came back down, guys from my friend group had shown up, since a lot of them are dating girls i'm friends with. my boyfriend is not part of their friend group because of the grade difference. i didn't tell my boyfriend this (obviously a mistake) but he ended up texting me asking if guys had shown up, which i responded yes but not anyone I knew ( a lie and also a mistake) to avoid him flipping out.i had no way of getting home and honestly didn’t want to leave these girls because i felt like i would missing out and still wanted to be invited. i didn't talk to any of the guys and went back upstairs because i felt sick and wanted to lay down. i don't remember the following but this is what my boyfriend says happened: he texted me and asked if we could hang that night, to which i said yes if he could pick me up because i couldn't drive. while texting he asks me if a specific guy (not someone i've talked to or flirted with, just someone he's had problems with before and believes wants to get with me) was at the house. i apparently lied to him and told him no. he then asked for the address so he could pick me up and i sent it to him, all of this still going on while i was in bed. my friend came up and told me i should eat something before i left so i went down and had a hamburger with my friends, sitting across from one of the guys. for the genuine first time that night i started talking to the guy in front of me showing him something funny on my friends phone. just as im doing this my boyfriend walks into the back yard and tells me we need to go. we get in the car and he's obviously upset. he tells me he got lied to and that i promised him i would stop acting like this, and that im now single. we drove around a little bit in silence since i couldn't go home the way i was and he didn't want to take me back to my friends because he was afraid i'd drive home. i eventually get home, he texts me and makes sure i got home safe, then blocks me on snapchat. the next morning i start texting him on imessage and he's stubborn on his decision to end things. I've begged him for hours to please not leave, and even brought him his chipotle order and a letter. he's still saying i love you but will not let up on ending things. do yall think there's a chance he comes back if i keep asking? or is something else i can do to stay with him? i understand needing space i just dont want our relationship to end over something like this. thank you for reading all the way through! he still hasn't told him mom we ended things and has been mostly responding to me, but now he's just asking me to stop texting him and just let it be. i want to stay with him more then i care about parties or drinking, but i already broke our promise so he won't believe me when i say that. any advice is welcome!

Hi! I'm looking for honest feedback on a book I'm (slowly) working on. This is a rough draft of Chapter 1. Is this something you would be drawn to read? It's already been submitted but would like more feedback pls
Coming of age creative non-fiction focusing on mental health, resilience, and restructuring family dynamics:
Chapter 1
Kelly entered the world during a bitter February winter in 1990, born to Alan and Geri McIntyre, both 27-years-old, residing in a quaint fishing town near the harbor in St. John's, Newfoundland. Alan, a member of the Canadian military reserves, had prompted their relocation from Halifax, seeking new opportunities for his growing family. Geri, a dedicated neonatal nurse, tirelessly juggled night shifts at the local hospital while caring for their two young daughters during the day. Despite their modest beginnings, Alan and Geri were determined to give their children a better life, teaching them the values of resilience and perseverance.
Geri was raised in a close-knit, humble family called the Perrys. Her father, a hardworking coal miner, balanced his sternness with sweetness as he spent his free time fishing or hunting with his sons. Her mother, vibrant and outspoken, managed the household while caring for their four children, often intervening in the daily tiffs between Geri and her younger sister, Charlene. Their parents spent their weekends going to local dances, where they danced the Irish jig and played the fiddle and spoons until their fingers bled. Her father, trained in classical guitar, would sometimes join in on the music when he had enough moonshine in him. Their modest country home, perched by the river, boasted just one bathroom, but despite their financial limitations, they found contentment in their simple life.
Upon reaching 18, Geri ventured to the bustling city of Sydney for nursing school, drawn by the promise of education and opportunity. Despite the distance, she remained deeply connected to her family, frequently returning home to end her homesickness. However, as she embraced the newfound independence of her senior year, her visits became shorter and less frequent, signaling the beginning of her journey into adulthood.
Alan's upbringing was marked by pain and turbulence. His father, an unemployed alcoholic, viciously abused Alan, his eldest son, while directing his anger and hatred towards women at his wife and young daughter. The McIntyre family was known for their unsavory reputation in Halifax, which carried on through Alan's father and his brothers.
Locked in his bedroom for weeks on end, Alan found solace only in his sketches, which served as outlets for his sadness and frustration. Despite being the family's breadwinner, and Alan's main source of comfort, his mother remained stoic, seemingly blind to the suffering inflicted upon her son. Seeking refuge from the chaos at home, Alan often fled to a friend's house, where he could find peace and a warm meal. However, as rumors spread about Alan stealing from local stores to survive, even his friends began to distance themselves, influenced by the stigma surrounding his troubled family background.
Wanting to break from the reputation that followed him, Alan focused on his goals and the future he envisioned for himself. Fueled by unshakeable purpose, he set his sights on a brighter path, determined to break free from the shadows of his family. He pursued admission to the prestigious engineering program at Dalhousie University, despite his lackluster grades and absence of any references. Undeterred by setbacks, Alan lobbied the dean of admissions, his daily visits to the dean's office a testament to his tireless pursuit of his dreams. And in a triumph of willpower over adversity, he secured his place in the engineering program. From then on, Alan would be known as a businessman, breaking free from the stereotype of the neighborhood black sheep.
It wasn't until Geri graduated from nursing school and moved to Halifax that Alan and she met. As it was told to their daughters, they met while dancing to disco at the downtown liquor dome on Halloween night. Amidst the beat and swirling lights, their eyes locked, igniting a connection. For Alan, Geri exuded a calming presence, a stark difference from the constant tension that had defined much of his life. In her, he found a beacon of optimism, a sanctuary from the shadows that had long haunted him.
As the night ended, Alan walked Geri back to her downtown apartment, the promise of a future encounter hanging in the air. Plans for a formal date were made, sealing their newfound connection with a tender kiss on Geri's cheek. Yet, true to his nature, Alan attempted to play the role of a suave charmer, feigning indifference with an attempt to reschedule their date later in the week. Geri's unwavering resolve quickly broke down this facade, insisting on the integrity of their initial plan or none at all. Faced with her steadfast determination, Alan folded, realizing that in Geri, he had met his match in both spirit and heart. They were married on Halloween day a year later.
The eldest daughter, Kelsey, spent almost two years as the McIntyre's only child. It is said by Geri that when Kelsey was born in mid-January of 1988, she looked almost unearthly, like a cherub brought down to earth. Her golden hair, round face, and big rosy cheeks brought them to tears when they were first allowed to hold her in their arms. With dark brown almond-shaped eyes glowing up at her parents' faces with recognition. She was perfect to them. Yet, as they soon discovered upon bringing her home, their newfound bliss was met with restless nights that stretched into teary dawns. Kelsey could not make it through the night without incident and was severely lacking sleep herself. In the wake of these exhausting nights and whispered frustrations, Geri and Alan's seemingly unshakable foundation began to show signs of strain.
Once the idea of Kelly entered the picture, Kelsey was excited for her new built-in best friend, but wary about how this new addition would change things for her. She had been the apple of her parents' eye, the subject of all of their attention and affection. Even at such a young age, Kelsey worried about her new baby sister coming home and taking over, leaving her trailing behind.
When Kelly finally made her grand entrance home from the hospital, Kelsey watched from behind the wooden railings of the staircase, half expecting a tiny intruder to burst out of the bassinet. But when their eyes finally met, something shifted in her. Kelsey saw in Kelly not a rival, but a partner in crime, and she vowed right then and there to be the best big sister she could be.
Their family only lived in Newfoundland for two years, so Kelly had to rely on her sister's later retellings of their short time in the arctic tundra – or so Geri liked to call it. Kelsey was good at storytelling, and whether the stories were true or make-believe, Kelly enjoyed believing them. Kelsey would explain that most days they spent with their mother at home, preparing dinner for their father and baking treats from their family cookbook to hand out to their chatty neighbors. When Geri was working, and Alan was indisposed, they were cared for by a neighborhood sitter. She became Geri's confidant. Geri did not have many friends in St. John's, and during the free time she did have, she spent it with the girls. It was becoming a mundane, monotonous existence she had not imagined for herself. Geri was never even sure if she wanted children, and in the absence of Alan's support, she felt lost in motherhood. She longed for simpler times. Kelsey and Kelly seemed to grow like weeds, becoming fuller of sass and fearlessness as the days moved on to months. Geri was afraid of what the future had in store for them.
END...for now

Hey yall. Long story short, in September of 2023, I bought a 2024 Honda Civic SI. Have 8k miles on it, don’t like it as much as I thought I would. Rev hang blows chunks. Seats aren’t comfortable. Want more space for hauling wood, dirt bike, snowboards, etc.
Some quick info that may be relevant, I paid MSRP (32k after tax), and I owe just 5k left on it. Im 24, I live at home and my car payment is my only bill and debt, graduated from uni making 60k a year, almost have enough for a house down payment (20%) but not in a rush to move out.
I’m looking at possibly a 2024 Nissan Frontier. King cab 4x4. Seeing em around 36-38k locally. I’ve contacted two dealerships, both today, one offered 27k for my SI, the other offered 27.5k.
I honestly just made a mistake with the SI I think. I don’t love it, and I can’t make myself love it. But I’m also a cheap ass and the depreciation hit would keep me up for a bit. Also I’d be taking on an addition 8k or so debt. My state does take off the tax of the trade in value though.
My plan would be to buy the truck, take care of it meticulously like I have my SI, and run it into the ground over the next 10-15 years (although I said this about the SI).
Am I total jackass? Am I fucked and just going to have to bite the bullet and tolerate this civic a bit longer? Need some adult advice.

I am looking to see if anyone has any experience with this as it’s an odd situation.. My husbands mother passed away when he was 7, she was not married to his father so her social security benefit went to him. This was 2009. At the time he would have been receiving said benefits, he was under the care of his legal guardian and she was the one in charge of things. (He never received any of the money and is now curious.. but I digress) Is there anyway to obtain a copy of the statement of benefits he received until he was 18? He’s planning on contacting Social Security himself, but we were just curious if anyone had any experience with getting these records and what you needed in order to get said records if you were able to. Thank you for any insight!