So for a month straight, I read nothing but Iain M. Banks. I've now finished (in the following order):

• The Player of Games
• Use of Weapons
• Consider Phlebas
• The State of the Art
• Excession

I'm still undecided how I feel about the Culture series. I don't think I love it (not yet, at least), but it's certainly a strong like and admiration, which is also growing in time. Banks' writing style is not 100 percent my cup of tea, and I'm not enjoying the reading process as much as I might. But then I finish, and I can't stop thinking about it, running it over and over in my mind. This, for me, is a sure sign of a good book.
One of the things I like most about Banks is the way he experiments with different story structures and narrative techniques. None of the books I've read was similar to any of the others. I tend to get series fatigue when I read more than 2-3 books by the same author at a time, but these were different enough to mitigate it. I also really appreciate an author who manages to surprise me, who subverts my expectations and fucks with my mind a bit. Boy, does the Culture have this in spades.
I went by recommendation to skip Consider Phlebas and start the series with The Player of Games, but it was the wrong choice for me. Player was probably my least favorite of the books I've read so far. A lot of it has to do with Gurgeh, who I just didn't find a captivating character. I don't need my characters to be likeable (does Banks even do those?), but I certainly want them to be interesting. For the first part of the book, the main Gurgeh's character trait was bored. The book only picked up when he finally got to Azad and started playing. I felt the ending was the strongest part of the book; but then, Banks is generally really good at mind-blowing endings.
Use of Weapons might have been my favorite. I didn't think so after my first read, but I caved in to the urge to reread it a week later, and it hit a lot harder the second time. It's crazy that the book with a massive twist in the end benefits so much from a reread. Knowing who "Zalakwe" is and what he's done, his entire journey becomes very different; it's also really satisfying to notice the little hints scattered here and there that went over my head the first time.
Contrary to the popular opinion, I quite enjoyed Consider Phlebas. It was much more action packed than the kind of things I usually read, and I found that refreshing, especially after the heavy hitter that was Use of Weapons. Yeah, the middle of the book was a bit pointless, and I really wish I skipped the whole Eaters chapter instead of only the grossest bits. But everything after finally getting to Schar's World was perfection. The gradual build-up of tension in the train sequence was so masterfully done, I was squirming in my seat. And Horza, so sure of his righteousness and the importance of his mission, but proven to be so inconsequential in the end. I felt quite sorry for him, even though he was a massive asshole.
The State of the Art was an enjoyable little "what-if" thought experiment, but I found the short stories, with the exception of Descendant and the darkly funny Odd Attachment, rather lackluster and forgettable.
Excession... I only finished it a couple days earlier and I still can't wrap my mind around it. People say Use of Weapons is hard to follow? It was a walk in the park compared to this. For the life of me, I couldn't keep all the ships straight in my head. I started taking notes about 150 pages in (haven't felt the need for that since my first read of the Silmarillion), and I was still lost as to who's conspiring with whom. It really warrants a reread, maybe even several, to put everything into place.
This book was equal amounts great and frustrating. It had as many characters and plotlines as several installments of The Expanse crammed into one novel, some of them episodic and not going anywhere, others given more space than they deserve. By the end I was so done with every single egotistical, whiny, overdramatic human being in the book and their petty dramas (with the possible exception of the poor hermit guy, who just wanted to be left alone), I wished the ships would just jettison them all into space. The Minds, however, were everything I've ever wanted. Brilliant, witty, scheming, and eventually fucking up despite their massively superior intelects. The part where Sleeper Service shakes off its tail, with the other ship left absolutely befuddled, was probably my favorite moment in all 5 books, and I still get the chills remembering "Let's talk, shall we?"
Despite some of my gripes, this has been a very fulfilling month. I'll now take a much deserved break and catch up on the rest of my TBR, but I'll happily return to The Culture sometime later in the year, when I'm again in the mood for something mind-bending and thought-provoking.

Hello everyone, I'm Ylenia and I've been reading the tarot cards for more than 3 years. Recently I've been working on further developing my psychic abilities and learning to channel, and I would love to practice by giving some psychic (no tools) readings in exchange for detailed feedback.
My readings are meant to provide insight and guidance, therefore they won't have any predictive qualities. Please refrain from asking for outcomes or any kinds of future related questions.
Keep your question specific, open-ended, and about yourself; inquiries regarding self-development and self-discovery are highly encouraged and will be prioritised.
The only relationship related questions I am open to doing are: - What is the purpose of a well-established relationships either from your past or present & what it is meant to teach you; - How can you heal from a past relationship and move forward with your life. Keep in mind that I will not be looking into the other person's thoughts and feelings, and the reading will still end up focusing mainly on you.
In addition to that, I will not answer questions related to health, pregnancy, death (including deceased loved ones), past lives, curses, entities, soulmates, twinflames, sexual matters, lottery, legal and financial matters.
RULES
If you're interested in getting a reading, leave a comment down below and send me a DM with the first names of the people involved and your question. No initials, be straightforward but polite, kind, and respectful please. I kindly ask you to not trauma-dump in my DMs.
You must write a detailed review of your reading within 48 hours of receiving it, otherwise you will be reported to the moderators.
I will not read for you if: - You have low karma; - You're constantly asking for readings; - You haven't left at least 5 detailed reviews for other readers; - You do not respect the rules above.
All of the readings will be sent as written reports. Please be patient, as it might take me a while to get to those who have been chosen.
DISCLAIMERS - My readings are for entertainment purposes only, and they are not a substitute for professional and legal help; - I am not responsible for any of your decisions, your choices are personal and your responsibility.

Part of me tells me that I'm faking it, but then when I do come out of the closet, it's something that is actually incredibly emotional for me to do. I have cried and felt absolutely nervous when coming out.
For context, I'm biologically female. In terms of how my brain thinks, it has gotten to the point where when my mom told me not to get pregnant, I was confused as to how pregnancy would be humanly possible until I remembered I'm female.
I have straight-up looked in the mirror and recognised myself as a guy until I snapped out of it a couple of times.
When I was a younger teen, I used to watch Blaire White videos and think, "See? I'm just a tomboy, I'm not trans," even though I didn't think I was trans at all back then.

Introducing the Labs API Playground, a powerful tool designed to provide users quick access to data and an Early-Access/Beta API experience. Whether you’re a seasoned GreyNoise user (welcome back!) or just starting your journey (welcome aboard!), this playground will enable you to explore and interact with our data in new ways.

Accessing the Playground

To enter the Labs API Playground, visit https://api.labs.greynoise.io. It’s that easy! Who can access this playground? Anyone with a GreyNoise Account! And if you’re already a proud member of our GreyNoise community, you’re just a few clicks away from unlocking this API experience. Don't have a GreyNoise account yet? Create your free account here.

Rules of Engagement on Labs API

Before you dive straight into the Labs API, let’s familiarize ourselves with a few essential guidelines:

1. Intended Use: The Labs API is a data source derived from the GreyNoise sensors and platform specifically designed to uncover insights our users may find intriguing and to facilitate exciting data explorations related to emerging threats; however, the Labs API is not for production use in user environments.
2. Partial Data: The data sets available through the Labs API represent only a fraction (1%-10%) of the complete data. Users may be interested in accessing the entire set, but bulk data delivery is unavailable during the beta phase. If you have use cases that require access to the complete data set, we encourage you to contact us to schedule a discussion with our sales and product team.
3. Support: If you encounter connectivity issues beyond verifying your GreyNoise account and accessing the Labs API Playground, please email [email protected].
4. Uptime and Downtime: We strive to maintain optimal uptime for the Labs API service; however, GreyNoise will only address downtime incidents during regular business hours.

Explore the Power of Labs API Queries

Now that you’re familiar with the playground’s rules and feedback process, it’s time to get hyped about the exciting world of Labs API queries! Here are a few notable ones to get you started:

topC2s

• Access the top 1% of possible Command and Control (C2) IP addresses, ranked by their pervasiveness, observed by GreyNoise over the previous 24 hours.
• Use this query to identify second-stage IP addresses that might be involved in malicious activities following the reconnaissance and initial access stages.
• Please note that the data may be up to 4.5 hours old.

topHTTPRequests

• Access the top 1% of HTTP requests, ranked by their pervasiveness, observed by GreyNoise over the last seven days. Gain insights into the background radiation of the internet, exploring the patterns and trends of HTTP requests.
• Please note that the data may be up to 4.5 hours old.

topPopularIPs

• Access the top 1% of IPs searched in GreyNoise, ordered by the number of users observed searching over the last 7 days. Understand commonalities in how users search within GreyNoise, gaining insights into popular IPs and their associated activities.
• This query uses a minimum number of IP submissions and users to build consensus before an IP can be considered available in this dataset.
• The data provided may be up to 4.5 hours old, and the “/” path has been removed as it is generally less valuable in most contexts.

noiseRank

• Access the top 1% of IPs by their noise score for the last 7 days. This score is determined by comparing the pervasiveness of the number of sensors and countries that observed packets from the IP, the request rate, and the diversity of payloads and ports for which the packets were observed.
• This query is intended to help rank the top noise makers compared to the quiet single-hit scanners.
• Please note that the data may be up to 4.5 hours old.

Share Your Discoveries

The Labs API Playground is intended to drive exploration and data-driven insights. Let curiosity guide you as you uncover hidden patterns, emerging threats, and connections within the vast landscape of internet noise.
Want to learn more about the Labs API Playground? Join our Open Forum on June 8th.

(This is a follow up to the linked post) I have since installed, reinstalled, and straight up deleted the drivers for my mouse (Y Precision Gaming) to almost no avail. For about 3 seconds my scroll wheel works in the games I mentioned before then stops. If i reinstall the drivers with the games open it works breifly then stops. What is going on? Should I just buy a new mouse entirely so I don't have to deal with this? (I'd rather not buy a new mouse I love the Precision mouse)

Hello everyone,
I'm currently working on a book store web application as part of my portfolio. I have a question regarding the use of book images from another online book store. I want to clarify that my website is purely a frontend project and not an actual store, and I will not be selling any of the books.
My concern is whether using these images could potentially lead to any legal issues or copyright infringement. I understand the importance of respecting intellectual property rights and want to ensure that I'm in compliance.
I would greatly appreciate any insights or advice regarding the use of these book images for demonstration purposes in my portfolio project. If anyone has experience or knowledge in this area, your guidance would be invaluable.
Thank you in advance for your help!

Just another observation living without children..
My husband and I are full-time RVers and travel around Canada, America, and Mexico. The past couple months we have been making our way back up through the US home to Canada for the summer.
Anyways, we have been travelling through some of the great national parks from New Mexico, Utah, and now we are in Yellowstone. I’m an avid hiker and there is NOTHING that reinforces not having kids like walking past parents with kids on hiking trails.
These are some of the most spectacular places in North America, and they are spending their precious time here being controlled by the whims of toddlers.
From a dad literally having to drag two toddlers down a path, to a mom hiking 1400ft up Zion with a crying baby on her shoulders, to parents using straight up coercion to get their 6 year old to get up off the ground and keep walking. I just cannot ever understand how there is anything enjoyable about hiking and experiencing the natural wonders of our planet with children.
Even the teenagers are whining and complaining about not having cell service, that it is boring, destroying all sorts of nature for ‘enjoyment’ and ruining the peace of other people on the trail.
I just don’t understand the logic and decision making that leads to taking 4 ungrateful children on a hike where everyone will be miserable.
Now, some kids are great and love that shit, take those kids, but why are parents trying to force their children into these activities!

Interesting interview between Spira and Jaap Sluijter. They invited him back for a part 2 after this to try and get the record straight. I find these topics super interesting.
S: What do you call that which knows the content of experience?
JS: I think that will be content correct.
S: No what do you call that which knows the content?
JS: I understand I understand and I would say that is the content. Thought itself looking at itself the thought separating itself you have which Krishnamurti points at that the observer is the observed thought splitting itself into an experiencer and an experienced, observer and the observed, the thinker and the thought so the question is that what's actually happening? You know we would like to have something sacred in this in the essence of us but is that what is actually happening? As in the movement of thought as just separation happening a dualism is happening. A duality.
​
https://youtu.be/uDsq5eb-zJA?t=2893
Is that what is happening in your opinion, when we say we are the one aware we are aware?

The world has become increasingly reliant on cell phones for communication, work, and entertainment. With this increased reliance comes the need for monitoring and surveillance. Whether you're a parent concerned about your child's online activity or an employer looking to ensure that company phones are used appropriately, the question of how to spy on a cell phone may have crossed your mind.
If you want to contact a reliable profesionals to hire any service you wish, you should contact:
Website: PEXA[.]ME
Telegram: (@pexame)
Many people believe that hiring a hacker is the only way to spy on a cell phone, but this is not necessarily the case. There are many legitimate services and tools available that can help you monitor a cell phone without resorting to illegal activities.
Terms most used by Hackers:
Before we delve deeper into the topic, let's familiarize ourselves with some of the most commonly used terms by hackers:
Phishing - The practice of sending fraudulent emails or messages that appear to be from reputable companies or individuals in order to gain access to personal information. Malware - A type of software that is designed to harm or compromise computer systems or mobile devices. Backdoor - A hidden entrance to a computer system or network that is used to gain unauthorized access. Social engineering - The use of psychological manipulation to trick people into divulging sensitive information or performing certain actions. Exploit - A vulnerability or weakness in a computer system or software that can be used to gain unauthorized access or execute malicious code.
Who hires a hacker ?
While there are many legitimate reasons for monitoring a cell phone, hiring a hacker is generally not the best approach. In fact, it's illegal to hire a hacker to spy on someone's cell phone without their consent. The use of spyware or other monitoring tools may be legal under certain circumstances, such as for parents monitoring their underage children's activities or employers monitoring company-owned devices, but it's always important to check local laws and regulations before attempting to monitor a cell phone.
In most cases, it's best to use legitimate services and tools for cell phone monitoring. There are many reputable companies that offer software and services that can help you monitor a cell phone's calls, texts, and internet activity without resorting to illegal or unethical methods.
In conclusion, it is possible to spy on a cell phone without hiring a hacker. By using legitimate services and tools, you can monitor a cell phone's activity legally and without running afoul of the law. However, it's important to always check local laws and regulations before attempting to monitor a cell phone, and to use such methods only in appropriate and legal circumstances. Thank you for rejoiceing terrific attention! It was a pleasure working with you.

Origin: Soldier:
Surprisingly, you’re actually a ‘legitimate’ soldier. That is, you’re a part of Gjallarhorn, with all the potential baggage that entails. A trained pilot, unless you’re actually assigned to a Mobile Suit, you’re more than likely to actually be crewing a ship or piloting a Mobile Worker.
1) Among Rats:
Having lived across this solar system long enough, you are familiar with the patterns and behaviors of the rats who infest it’s every nook and cranny. You have a basic familiarity with combat tactics and the ‘brawling’ style of combat that mercenaries and child soldiers use, so at least you won’t be caught off guard like the rest of Gjallarhorn when they pull them on you.
2) The Wingman x 2:
Capable pilots in their own right, these two pilots are both former child soldiers and have been implanted with the Alaya-Vijnana System to bolster their spacial awareness and information transfer rate. They get 300cp to spend and receive the discounts of either the Human Debris or Willing Combatant origins to spend on anything but companions.
3) Portable Bunker: Oh fucking hell who gave you access to this thing? What you’ve got is a man-portable version of a pile bunker stapled to the end of a rocket launcher. It’s big, and cumbersome, but it’s ordnance capable of breaching Nanolaminate Armor. Comes with only a few shots, but you can easily make more out of glue, rockets and prayers.
4) Man-At-Arms (100 CP):
It’s a tiny bit weird how Mobile Suits are shaped like men and yet fight entirely different to them… yet, they somehow paradoxically retain many mannerisms that make them the same. If the Mobile Suit was truly built to replicate the human body, then you’re going to put that to full use. Any skills that you have outside of the cockpit you find fully applicable inside it. Apply your sword skills perfectly, or judo flip your opponents with a well-timed thruster kick, although I’m not sure if there’s any benefit to doing open-heart surgery from in there.
5) Mobile Armor x 3 (1800 CP).
1) Ish Perhaps one of the most insidious Mobile Armors, the Ish appear to simply be very large Mobile Suits at first glance, although beyond the humanoid form, the armor doesn’t bear much resemblance to modern Mobile Suit armor at all, instead looking like it was lifted straight out of a medieval history textbook. In fact, Ish is almost entirely hollow, with it’s weapons all being mounted externally to the armor, and it’s entire internal structure being taken up by Pluma storage space, allowing it to transport a small army directly into a populated zone without alerting an enemy to it’s true threat.Perk: Unsurprisingly, the Ish tends to always be vastly underestimated by it’s opponents, who will frequently ignore the potential danger it poses in favor of other, more flashy threats.
2) Cherub
It’s thought that the Cherub once supported other Mobile Armors in the field, as in addition to it’s admittedly small force of Plumas, a multitude of tools and arms sprout from it’s main body, which is suspended upon four, skycrane-like legs. With these tools, it is capable of repairing itself and very quickly repairing other Mobile Suits and Armors that date from the Calamity War, with Plumas fetching resources that it can forge into replacement armor, ammunition and weaponry. Perk: In addition to recognizing the systems of most units that date from the Calamity War, the Cherub can recognize technology that is similar, and with time can expand it’s capabilities along those routes, going from Calamity War-era technology to modern technology and cutting edge technology and beyond with time.
3) Erelim
Instead of having legs designed for walking on land, Erelim’s small main body is built into a massive flying wing lifted by dozens of hybrid electrical engines, allowing it to fly indefinitely under reactor power, and exit the atmosphere under it’s own power. The entire body is studded with docks for the Erelim’s specialized Plumas, which are fast, miniaturized version of the Erelim capable of landing in order to harvest resources and bring them back to the Erelim and additionally bearing a double pair of upgraded railguns. Perk: The Erelim is incredibly resilient, and even after suffering heavy damage is able to keep operating and staying in the air until it is forced to make an emergency landing.
Drawbacks:
1) Children Are Useless [+100CP]
You seem to have forgotten that you live in a world with child soldiers and child slavery. In your mind, anyone below the age of twenty five is an inept and useless person, unfit for any sort of difficult or stressful job. Considering that many of these children are inhumanly enhanced and many are skilled pilots, then you can see how this can often work against you, whether they are your allies or your enemies.
2) Adults Are Useless [+100CP]
Looks like the moral guardians are taking over. It seems like all of the adults in your life are convinced that no matter what sort of aptitude you’ve shown that you’re a stupid child who they need to ‘save’ from themselves, often to everyone’s detriment. Expect this sort of thing to not go away easily, especially with the sort of people who think highly of themselves. If you’re an adult, you’ll find it difficult to take any children seriously here, which happens to include many ace pilots as well as most of, if not all Alaya- Vijnana pilots and Gundam pilots.
3) Stunted Growth [+100CP]
It’s not surprise that with the extreme lack of food outside of Earth, a lot of people would experience stunted growth. You’re considerably shorter than you would normally be for your age and gender, and your development will take a significant hit. Expect your physical ability to be significantly reduced due to this.
4) Man, we’re always getting shit on. [+200CP]:
It seems like no matter what you do, the media will always find a way to twist whatever happened against you, with your opponents always getting the good PR. You could defend a colony against a pirate attack and still manage to be the subject of a smear story about child soldiers. Better be careful, as with that level of justification, your opponents could get away with some shady and illegal tactics against you.
5) Enemy Ace [+200CP]:
Somehow you’ve attracted the attention of a persistent mercenary pilot, who’s decently skilled and frequently finds themselves on the opposite side of conflicts. While they may not exactly hate you per say, they definitely aren’t going easy on you, so expect battle to become a living hell every time they show up.
6) Cycle of Revenge [+200CP]:
In your past, someone close to you was murdered. Perhaps with the right counseling, you could have recovered from the trauma in time, but instead, you’ve become nigh-obsessed with getting revenge for your fallen friend. You’re not completely crazy (yet), but expect it to become unhealthy and interfere with combat when you see one of your ‘targets’. Worse, if you somehow avenge your friend, you’ll simply flip the coin over to the other side, and send someone against your side.

My gf (Cambodian & US citizen) told me (American citizen) that she will not marry me so I can have access to a work visa for when I visit Cambodia. This would be useful if I had a remote job and wanted to work legally there.
Through my work, I have the opportunity to get a work pass in Singapore. I have no immediate plans to live in Singapore, it would open a door if I wanted to move there in the future. This work pass allows you to bring a spouse to also get a work pass.
Since my gf refuses to marry me for visa reasons, it feels like a waste for me to apply alone, since for many people having access to the singapore job market would be life changing for them and their families.
My Thai exgf [f26] (who is still single) is interested in marrying me and working in Singapore. My Thai exgf is now a life-long friend and not marriage partner (I don't think she is good to raise kids with in the usa for other reasons).
Key facts:

• not interested in long term marriage with Thai exgf due to our past.
• current gf wants us to be exclusive, so I wouldn't be sleeping with Thai exgf. I would literally just show up for the wedding and to hand her the work pass papers. I am not charging her money. This is not a fake marriage.
• I've known Thai exgf for 4 years. I've known current gf on and off for 12 years.

Should I:

1. not tell my gf and get married to the thai girl. when my gf and I are ready for marriage, divorce thai girl, marry gf.
2. tell my gf and risk her appearing entitled and selfish (making me less attracted to her).

Has anyone else gone through this process and how did it turn out?

https://www.reddit.com/zen/wiki/famous_cases#wiki_xingyan.27s_tile_in_the_bamboo

Ultimately he couldn’t find [an answer], and lamented to himself, “A picture of a cake cannot satisfy hunger.” He respectfully went up to the hall and begged Guishan to explain for him. *Guishan said, “If I explained it to you, later on you’d revile me. What I say is mine, and has nothing to do with you.” *
Xiangyan finally took all the writings he’d collected and burned them. Then he said, “I won’t study Zen in this lifetime; for now I’ll work as a perpetual server monk, and avoid belaboring mind and spirit.” Then he tearfully took leave of Guishan and went straight to Nanyang; seeing the ruins of National Teacher Zhong’s abode, he stayed there and built a hut. One day as he was clearing away weeds and brush, when rubble hit some bamboo and made a sound, he was suddenly awakened. He went right back, bathed, and lit incense; bowing to Guishan from afar, he said in praise, “The master’s great kindness surpasses that of parents; if you had explained for me back then, how could this have happened today?”

.

^Yo͞ok Welcome! ^{Meet me} My comment: This Case has a vibe to it that speaks to the frustration and helplessness and pointlessness of spiritual quests, and people with mental health challenges (clinical or situational) can often sympathize with Xiangyan's frustration and sense of defeat that led him to quit studying Zen and go off to live the life of a janitorial worker.
Zen gets lots of visits from people who are experiencing this same frustration and sense of defeat... but when these people are coming from unaffiliated new age buddhist backgrounds of 8FP or Zazen faiths, there is often a lot of rage that goes with the frustration and sense of defeat... rage because 8FP and Zazen were offered as solutions and then never worked for anyone, ever.
These people often blame Zen, Zen, or whoever is posting, rather than examine themselves. Sometimes these people engage in religious "self harm", where they don't just quit like Xiangyan, they actually actively engage in conduct their religion or professed religion outright condemns. This becomes a cycle where they come to Zen, become enraged at their own failures, blame the Zen tradition, the forum, or the community, lash out in a way that violates their faith and increases their sense of shame, rinse and repeat.
Who is responsible? Is it the church they probably stopped going to? Is it the practice they stopped engaging in because it didn't work?
I reject the notion that it's the fault of the 1,000 years of Zen records, reject the notion that it's Guishan's fault, reject the notion that Zen is to blame, or that it's the community.
But that doesn't mean the community is obligated to provide a platform for this self destructive rage.
Xiangyan was sincere in his quitting of the tradition. In quitting he saw something in himself that he might not have otherwise.
Xiangyan didn't go online and hate anybody for not conforming to his failed beleifs and practices.

lately i have noticed as im driving that cars surrounding me disappear. even if it is a road you can only go straight, i will see a car behind me, and the next moment it’s gone. nowhere to turn, except maybe getting in the lane beside me. but no, the car is completely gone.
this happens day or night but usually i only notice if there aren’t many cars in the road. i usually work early mornings, like 4am. and i will notice headlights directly behind me, or beside me, but then they’re gone. i never see taillights fading away at night or turning down side streets.
i even once noticed a semi truck (with some lights on) parked on the side of a highway at night. and it was there as i drove past. but when i looked in my mirror as i passed it, the truck and the reflective cones were just gone.
today i was driving (about 11am) and noticed a bright orange car behind me. i made a turn and watched behind me, and the orange car did not pass thru the intersection nor did it turn behind me.

So, I recently started thinking about opening a very small skatepark in a small local industrial workshop here in the uk, the location isn’t ideal but it is all I would be able to afford with the funding. We don’t have any indoor skateparks locally so I thought it’d be a nice thing for the local skaters. I have absolutely no experience running a business so the whole idea is super scary. Can you guys give me some feedback on the ramps/ rails I am planning on putting in.
I would have a half pipe 6 Quarter pipes lining one section on the area, two that are 2ft tall and 4 that are 3ft tall. I also want a 6ft grind rail and a similarly sized grind box.
Do you think this would interest you if it opened near you ? How much would you pay for a day pass, a monthly pass, or even a yearly pass ?

Just venting here:
On January 26, 2023 I was fired for the first time in my nearly 15 year career. To say it came as a shock would be an understatement. I recognized the workplace was toxic. Management was toxic, and the place generally sucked… but I did my job and never had any disciplinary issues. I had been with this very large shoe and apparel company based in the Pacific Northwest for nearly 3 years. I was hired right as COVID started and was based in the NYC office. The first two years were amazing and I truly enjoyed my job. When my manager decided to leave for another role with a different company was the point where things started getting shitty. My manager was amazing and I didn’t understand how much he shielded me and others from the craziness coming out of the corporate HQ.
The first red flag was the time it took to find his replacement. The job market was still hot at the time and I was shocked that they were unable to fill this vacancy. After nearly a year I get introduced to my new boss. She was an interesting character to say the least. It didn’t take me, and my team, long to realize how this new manager operated. Her goal seemed to be to pit the team against each other. She made it a point to tell my team that I was holding them back from meeting their full potential. She told them that I was actively working to ensure they didn’t get promotions. Normally, this would have been concerning, but I had a great relationship with my team. We were always incredibly open and there were no surprises. Naturally they would come to me when she would have those conversations with them. We continued to navigate this new situation in hopes that she would find something to keep her busy aside from creating drama.
So for two months we continued our work and the new boss set the priorities for the whole team. This whole time, I was preparing to go on FMLA in September as my wife and I were expecting our 3rd child. This shoe company was all about “family.” It was the typical corporate family bullshit line, but 12 weeks is 12 weeks. So I got my team prepped and informed them they could reach out to me with any issues as I’m always around to support them. Initially everything was fine. Team was doing well and I was enjoying my time at home. Once issues started popping up at work, my phone started ringing. Not my manager, but other managers across the organization who I typically worked with. They were expressing that this new lady apparently didn’t know what she was doing. So, I tried to reach out to her and help out a bit, and was immediately reprimanded for reaching out while on leave. Okay, I get it… technically she was correct, so I let things be.
When I finally return in November, I have a meeting set up with my manager the morning of my first day back at work. A week earlier, one of my highest performers on the team walked in and quit without any notice. This person reached out to me prior to doing so and expressed that they couldn’t take it anymore. They said that our boss was toxic and, as an Asian American female, a number of things had been said that she felt was inappropriate. For that reason she was resigning without notice.
In this meeting with my manager, I learned that I was apparently to blame for my teammate’s departure. Furthermore, I was told that I had failed to set my boss up for success before I left. That’s correct, I didn’t set my boss up for success before I went out on FMLA.
Per policy, I was required to take my former teammate’s grievances to HR. I did so later in the week and was informed that it would be investigated, and I would be protected from retaliation (lol.) 2 months later I was fired for cause with 3 days left in the month. I received no severance, I lost my employer provider healthcare at the end of the month, and being the only income with 3 small children meant this was a massive hit to the family. The reason for the termination was that I “failed to live up to the expectations of the role.” Apparently there was an incident on Christmas Day that I didn’t respond to. Typically our internal security team would alert me to issues around the country and my team and I would respond accordingly. With it being Christmas Day, they naturally had the day off and I never received a phone call.
I tried to express this to HR and my manager, yet was told this decision is final. I had apparently been a shitty employee the whole time I had worked here. This too came as a shock as I had received more than one spot bonus specifically for my performance.
At the end of the day, I’ve learned that everyone else who had experienced similar situations (shockingly there were quite a few) were given packages on their way out the door and I was not as I was not a protected class of individual.
My attorney is working with their legal dept, but it seems the SOP here is to run out the clock. It’s incredibly frustrating that there’s next to no recourse for employees here in the US. I will say that my old boss did get fired less than a year from when she started because she pulled some of the same shit with employees outside of the US. They literally reported the same issues I had months earlier, but they were actually protected I suppose.
Not sure what other options exist at this point other than continuing to apply for jobs. I landed a better position with a better org about 2 months ago, but the offer was rescinded due to “discrepancies from your former employer.” So they likely torpedoed me there as well. I can confidently say that this organization is the worst company I’ve ever worked for and I hope no one here ever makes the mistake of working for them.

Hi all, Im not sure where to start but I am really struggling.
So pertinent back info, my ss (9) is diagnosed with ADHD, ODD and OCD and is on Concerta plus therapy 2x/week which has shown a bit of improvement but not much. A lot for a little kid right? He has always been a handful, and tbh I never looked forward to him coming to our (my house actually) for his scheduled visits. Dont get me wrong, I actually loved this child (and I think I still do), but he has caused so much chaos that Im honestly feeling traumatized by him. Like I am repulsed when I see a picture of him at this point because the feeling of anxiety in my stomach just overwhelms me. I know it sounds bad, I love him but I dont like him. From epic meltdowns, aggressive violence towards other children (especially his brother), lying, stealing, his crazy energy that he can't seem to satiate. There is literally always a disaster with him lurking around the corner because he CAN NOT control any impulse he gets. He has gotten suspended multiple times, gotten kicked off the bus etc.
Anyways the most recent thing that happened was that in the middle of the night while everyone was sleeping (around 4-5 am), he woke up searching for candy as we have put a ban on it since he literally will not eat anything but candy, and he is visibly affected by all the sugar. So he went nuts looking for it- I mean every crevice of the house. He went into the basement (where he is not allowed), went into my partners cabinet that had a child safety device on it that is IN THE CEILING (we have barstools that he dragged) and went through his things. Now please try not to judge me, I didnt even know we had these but he had some gummy edibles (legal in my state) in this cabinet and SS stole them. And he ate them with his brother. So obviously chaos ensued and we had to get them to the hospital. CPS was called, they did a surprise check at the house and deemed it safe and stable. That it was an accident, it wasnt wreckless as SS stole it from a cabinet that had a safety device on it. At the hospital, the stepkids mom was there and basically told us that SS is just out of control- that she has fingerprint locks on her bedroom because he is such a cleptomaniac, and he was still able to find the backup key for it that was in the most conspicuous place and she cant trust him. He found a lighter and tried to light the shower curtain on fire in her house. I found a SAW IN HIS BED that he took from the basement workshop. We (especially his dad) keep an eye on him every second of every day but he finds ways (middle of the night, figures out how to get through safety devices, etc.). (Also fyi I now have a fingerprint doorknob on the basement door so that he literally CANT get down there, the backup key is in my office at work so he has absolutely no access).
One of the problems besides this whole mess is that I really don't like this kid anymore (I love him and want whats best for him but if I never had to see him again not one tear would be shed by me and Id be relieved). I know not everything is his fault due to his neurodivergence and age, but I just am at my wits end with him. I am so afraid that he is such a liability at my house, and I have so much anxiety whenever he is around (so every other of my precious weekends) trying to keep him out of trouble or thinking of whats coming next. Also, some people in my family dont want him at their house anymore because they are afraid of him stealing dangerous things (he finds those the most interesting) and being responsible or held accountable for it. It doesnt help that SKs mom is very high conflict and wouldnt hesitate to ruin my life if she had the chance. I have plans to take these kids with my family and bf for an extremely expensive disney trip for my parents 50th, and I am so worried they are going to ruin it. On the other side of the coin, I feel so damn guilty because these kids and their dad ADORE me. I never let on to them how I am feeling, and I never will. I just dont know what to do. I want to stay with their father because I love him and he treats me like gold- he is very aware of how upsetting the situation is and he himself is grieving in a way the life he thought he would have had with his children. I have brought up to my SO that the next time there is a big issue with his kid, they cant be at my house anymore. And the thing is, I know that will most likely end our relationship or at the very least traumatize his children as they will think I dont love them anymore when they are very attached to me. help

Tldr; my boyfriend is great but he makes critical comments that upset me and idk what to do.
My bf is sweet, kind and intelligent. We have been together 3 years but he has a habit of constantly making critical comments when it comes to my cooking method, how I wash clothes ect. I am constantly watched with comments like 'do it like this' 'cut straight'. It's really killing my happiness in the relationship. Its got to the point that I will just walk away when he makes a comments, causing an argument.
Any ideas what can be done to prevent this? I have spoke to him and he has said he is trying- its difficult because his family are the same way

MODS: Please remove if not appropriate. NOTE: This is not a request for a pill mill doctor recommendation.
Hi Austin Reddit! I am curious if anyone has any recommendations for psychiatrists they have used? I have been seeing the same psychiatrist for several years now, but unfortunately he is switching to a medical director role of their practice and now have PA's seeing patients. I have not felt super great about the progress made/relationship I've developed with the PA I've been seeing.
Without diving into too many details, I have not felt listened to regarding feedback I've been giving on various treatment methods/medication regimens. I feel like this PA is hearing me, but not 'listening,' and just kinda throwing medication at me willy-nilly. The final straw for me was the PA wanting me to try a specific medication that I had previously tried, resulting in some major adverse side effects. I had to insist that they re-check my chart for proof that I had recently tried that medication, and I was too scared to try it again due to the side effects it had (extremely low blood pressure, loss of consciousness, vomiting, etc). I felt like they were insinuating that I was either being untruthful, or that I was exaggerating my side effects. Either way, I didn't feel comfortable and it put a really bad taste in my mouth.
After discussing it at length with my therapist, I am going to explore other options for psychiatric care/medication management. I wouldn't say they're MUSTS, but I would love it if the provider:- Is LGBTQIA+ or specializes in LGBTQIA+ issues/treatment- Works with patients with PTSD/PTSD-related insomnia/night terrors- Is not anti-controlled drug for treatment-> And to clarify on this, I say this last point because I have come across healthcare providers that are extremely anti-amphetamine for ADHD medication. I was looking for a new GP when I moved to ATX, and they straight up said "I'm glad you're seeing a psychiatrist for your Vyvanse because I would put an end to that treatment the minute you stepped into my practice. I don't like that stuff."- Would be open to virtual appointments once we've established a good relationship (I say this because I know there are requirements around controlled drugs and what can be prescribed via telehealth vs in-person)If this violates any of the posting rules, I apologize and feel free to delete, it was not intentional! Thanks so much in advance!

So, today at work I was helping a customer pick out cannabis seeds to grow(it's legal in my state to grow and consume cannabis). The customer was not really listening to what I was saying about the seeds and kinda being rude about it. Just over all denying my knowledge on the specifics of the seed genetics and the effects based on the end results when it's time to harvest. As I am trying my best to be patient and as kind as possible, the customer asks me if I consume or have consumed cannabis. I am currently 28 weeks pregnant and DEFINITELY showing lol. I tell him that I am not since I am pregnant. Then he ask "Are you married?" Internally, I'm a bit annoyed because why is that even relevant to anything??? Lol so I responded "Why? Who's asking?" And he kinda goes red in the face and I tell him that my partner and I own a condo and we'll move onto the next financial life change when it's time. I probably should have just said nothing after because I was already kinda weirded out and annoyed with being asked if I was married.
Lol I think it's so weird and silly when people ask personal questions in regards to your marital status or lack of, when you are expecting...