Hey guys I recently just got my g2 back in November. I haven’t booked my g yet as I was out of a job and I naturally forgot to book my g asap. But it finally came to mind, anyways. My g2 expires this July, im gonna get it extended this weekend, but as I’m looking at the website, stuff is booked up way beyond 2030, scary shit. And if I renew my license it would go up to 2028. So do I have to renew it again in 2028, or do I have to be really lucky and hope someone opens up a slot for me before then? I just wanna understand my chances as they seem slim.
P.s saw people selling early booking slots on Facebook, looks fishy and if it is a scam it’s disgusting.

Some Background: My mother abandoned me when I was 3 years old after my father had an affair with her best friend. My father married her best friend and moved away leaving me and my mother behind. He took his cat though. my mother didn't really want to be a mother, and she sent me to go live with my father. My father and stepmother were horribly physically, emotionally, and psychologically abusive.
During my childhood, my mother almost never contacted me in any way. I saw her five times from Age 3 until 18. Once, I stayed with her for 6 months when I was 11. she told me she was going to file for custody of me because from the stories I had told her about my life, she knew that I was being abused by my father and stepmother.
That was a lie however. She sent me back to live with my father and stepmother who continued to abuse me until my 18th birthday.
When I turned 18, my mother wanted to have a really close friendly relationship with me. I was really angry about her abandoning me twice. I didn't trust her and I didn't really feel that we had the foundation for a relationship, but I desperately wanted her love and approval.
Even though she hadn't raised me and she sent me to live with people who she knew were actively abusing me, she wanted me to treat her like she was the best mother ever. she would constantly tell stories about when I was under 3 years old. It made me really uncomfortable. I would ask her to stop telling the stories but she wouldn't.
When I got engaged, I invited her to my wedding which was a Orthodox wedding. for those of you who don't know, there is a very strict dress code for women that involves necklines that cover the collarbones, shirts that have sleeves which cover the elbows and skirts that go below the knee. I asked my mother to follow this dress code and she agreed to, but she showed up at the wedding with a blouse that was a deep v-neck. she wasn't showing cleavage or anything, but it was horribly inappropriate. she was also wearing open toed shoes which I had asked her specifically not to wear. When I confronted her on this, she basically dismissed my boundary and said that because she wasn't showing cleavage and because her shoes were very cute sandals that it was fine for her not to respect the dress code.
when I was pregnant, I told her, and she announced my pregnancy publicly before I had the opportunity to do so. It really hurt me that she told my grandmother and other family members before I had the opportunity to. when I tried to talk to her about this gently, telling her how much it had hurt me and how I would appreciate her not sharing my news with people especially after I had specifically asked her not to, she got very angry with me and told me I had no right to tell her what she can talk with her family members about.
These are some of the big events, however there have been a million other boundary violations and disrespectful actions towards me. over the years I went from wanting to have frequent contact with her to very low contact. especially When I became a mother, I realized I would never understand her or the choices that she made regarding me.
I have been living abroad, in Mexico, for the last 11 years. I live in a good area and I have a great job here. I invited my mother to come to visit us several years ago, before the pandemic and she gave me a lot of excuses why she couldn't come. She said that the flight would be too expensive. She said that she didn't have a way to get from the airport to our home. When my husband and I offered to pick her up from the airport and even to pay for her flight, she finally told us that it's because we live in Mexico. She doesn't feel it's a very nice place and she has never had a desire to come to this country.
This hurt very much because she lives several hours from the border in a city in America that is way more violent than where I live. The statistics for violent crime show that there is a higher rate of crime in her city than mine. I tried to tell her that she would be safe and that I really wanted to visit her to visit us in our home because I'm very proud of the life that my husband and I have built for ourselves. I told her she could stay in our guest room and that we would take her to the park we go to and the children science museum we frequent and our favorite restaurants, etc. she insulted Mexico and refused.
it left such a bad taste in my mouth that I didn't speak to her for the greater part of a year.
Then, she emailed me out of the blue about 9 months later and it was a one-line email. she said, I like where you live.
I obviously thought that she could be in my city so I emailed her back asking her directly if she were. no answer. I called her cell phone. no answer. I texted her and received no answer.
about a week later, she emailed me again telling me that she was no longer in my city but had spent two weeks there and she really thought it was a very fine place. she never tried to call me or see me at all but she traveled internationally to the city that I live in and she contacted me just so that I would know that she had been there and had Made no effort to contact me at all. It really hurt my feelings.
I wrote to her telling her that it hurt my feelings and letting her know that I felt she owed me an apology and an explanation for doing that. She has done a lot of hurtful things to me over the years, but that was so over the top and ridiculous - - even for her - - so I felt that it was a fair request.
Instead, she told me that she had already apologized to me. she insisted that she had apologized and I was refusing to accept her apology. she had never apologized to me. I'm certain of it. However, this made me doubt myself and I installed an automatic call recorder in an attempt to Discover if I was remembering things incorrectly or if she does lie constantly and then try to rewrite the truth.
she never apologized for the Mexico fiasco. However, I felt guilty after not speaking to her for a while and I initiated contact and we had low contact for a while that seemed to be going well. what I mean is she wasn't outright rude or disrespectful or passive aggressive. I was calling her every week and she would answer most times and we would make small talk for a few minutes.
Then, on one of our weekly calls in October of last year (2022), she told me in October of last year (2022) that she would be moving to another part of the country, very far away from the international border. Since we had had a few months of decent text exchanges, I decided to call her. During that call, in November 2022, I invited her again to come to visit us before she moves because I don't know when I will ever see her again because of how far away she's moving and how bad our relationship has always been.
I was hoping that she would see this as an opportunity to bury the hatchet and reconnect. instead she told me no. She flat out refused. she answered so quickly it was obvious that she didn't even consider it at all. It was like a reflex refusal. I know people can't always travel when they want to, I'm not so unreasonable, but she has over a year before she moves so it would have felt better if she at least pretended to consider it.
We spoke a week later and she asked me if after she moved my family and I would be willing to travel to see her at her new house. I told her no. I reminded her that we had invited her to visit us twice and she refused both times. I went on to say that I am not willing to travel so far to visit someone who has refused to visit me.
She told me that she never refused to visit me. I told her that she had. I'm certain that she did refuse, because I recorded that phone call and I had listened to it several times. there is a clear refusal. She told me that I had not recorded it. That I was lying. I emailed her the audio from the call. I tried to call her the next week but she didn’t answer. Same thing the week after that. Same thing every week since I gave up trying to speak to her over the phone in early February 2023. The last time I called her, I left her a pretty curt voicemail. I told her that if she wanted to speak to me that she should answer the phone or return my calls. A few weeks later she sent me a message at just after 7am, as I was getting ready to go to an important work meeting. In her message, she complained to me about the voicemail. She told me that it is not appropriate to contact someone and not ask them how they are doing and give them a polite greeting. She told me that she did not like my voicemail and asked me not to leave her voicemails like that. I messaged her back and told her that I will not be leaving any more voicemails, as she has not answered or returned my calls in over 4 months and I have given up. I also told her that she was messaging me at 7am to complain about a voicemail I left weeks ago and to please not message me just to complain, until after 6pm, when I get off of work.
She messaged me back and said, ‘' No worries, won't be bothering anymore. Enough take care don't text or call you won't get a response. You have made yourself clean when it comes to me.' So I blocked her. On my phone. On social media. On everything I could think of. However, I didn’t think of blocking her on my old email address. A few weeks later I was looking for an old document in that old email account and I saw that she had emailed me. Here is the exchange:
MOM: Sat, Mar 4, 8:25 PM
Dear daughter, if someone isn't able to do something but could and wants to do that thing at another time it is not refusing that thing. I truly hope we can get past all this time disagreeing with each other and go forward . When I told you not to text me it isn't that I don't want a relationship with you. A relationship can't be based on the actions that have been going on between us. Love you always mom
ME: Thu, Mar 9 12:17PM
Mom, You said to me in a text message from Feb 22nd, 2023 at 7:28 AM, and I am quoting you directly: ' No worries, won't be bothering anymore. Enough take care don't text or call you won't get a response. You have made yourself clean when it comes to me.'
By refusing to answer or return my calls for months while I consistently reached out to you and by sending me that text message above, you have made yourself very clear that you do not want a relationship with me.
Even in this email that you sent, the one I am responding to, You began it immediately by arguing with me. Hardly a way to mend a relationship. Just stop.
MOM Thu, Mar 9 12:19PM
Daughter I am sorry you feel the way you do. I only wish we both could, never mind i will be sending things i was going to send for a while to you soon love you mom.
ME: 1:04 PM
Mom, Saying "I'm sorry you feel the way you do" is not an authentic apology because it doesn't take responsibility for your actions or behavior. It is a common example of a non-apology apology, which is a statement that appears to express regret or remorse but does not truly acknowledge wrongdoing.
An authentic apology should include an admission of responsibility for your actions, an expression of regret or remorse, and a commitment to making amends or taking steps to prevent the same behavior from happening again in the future. It should focus on the impact of your actions on the other person, rather than their reaction or feelings about the situation.
Just STOP. Please do not force me to block you here as well
MOM: I have apologized so many times. you don't need to block me .
ME: When did you apologize for sending me that message?
MOM:You told me to stop so I am going to. I don't want you to block me or anything of that nature.
ME: Please answer my question.
When did you apologize to me for sending me the following message?
Feb 22nd, 2023 at 7:28 AM ' No worries, won't be bothering anymore. Enough take care don't text or call you won't get a response. You have made yourself clean when it comes to me.'
MOM:Am going to stop as you ask me to. I hope we can find our way to one another. Love you mom
ME: On Thu, Mar 9, 2023
When I asked you to stop, you refused to by continuing to message me.
Now, I am asking you to answer the question. You are refusing to answer it because we both know that you never apologized for sending me that message. Your emails to me today are the only contact we have had since you sent it.
Do not contact me again until you are ready to properly apologize for that message. If you contact me for any other reason, I will block you immediately without responding.
I deserve to be treated with respect.
Thanks a bunch,
Daughter
Thu, Mar 9, 2023 at 6:37 PM
MOM:If your answer to everything with me is blocking me, do what you have to do. I am standing up for myself and your stand to block me? Then just do what you feel is right and if blocking me is then do it. I am here when we can talk without the, ‘I am going to block you’ attitude. Love mom
BLOCKED
ME: Fri, Mar 10, 2023, 8:36 AM
Dear Mom,
It breaks my heart to have to write this letter to you, but I feel that you have given me no other choice. For as long as I can remember, our relationship has been strained and difficult, but it has been particularly bad in the past few months.
It hurts me deeply that we haven't had a single pleasant interaction since November 2022. It hurts me that you refused to speak to me over Christmas and New Year's, and that you have ignored and not returned my calls for months on end. It hurts me that every time we do interact, it is filled with hostility, anger, and resentment.
I know that I am not blameless in our relationship, but I have tried so hard to make things work between us. I have tried to clearly communicate my needs and boundaries to you, but you have not respected them. I have tried to reach out to you and make amends, but you have not taken those opportunities. Even yesterday, I clearly asked you not to contact me unless it was to apologize for the message you sent me on 'Feb 22nd, 2023 at 7:28 AM, when you said, and I am quoting you directly: ' No worries, won't be bothering anymore. Enough take care don't text or call you won't get a response. You have made yourself clean when it comes to me.' Instead of apologizing to me as I clearly asked you to, you continued to email me only to argue with me and blame me for the state of things between us.
Your consistent behavior towards me over time has been hurtful and disrespectful, and it has taken a toll on my mental health and well-being. I had been recording our phone conversations because I needed to protect myself and my mental health because of your dishonesty and gaslighting. I never intended to hurt you or betray your trust, but I needed to do what was best for me.
I am devastated that our relationship has come to this. I am devastated that we cannot find a way to have a healthy and positive relationship. I am devastated that I have to write this letter to tell you that I cannot have you in my life anymore.
I want you to know that I love you and that I will always cherish the good memories we have shared. I will try to remember you at your best. But I cannot continue to subject myself to the pain and hurt that our interactions bring me. I need to put myself first and surround myself with people who love and support me. Unfortunately you have not treated me lovingly nor supportively for years.
I don't believe at this point that you will change but I still hope that this estrangement will give you the chance to reflect on your behavior and take steps towards becoming a better version of yourself. If you do that work on yourself, maybe someday we can reconcile and heal the wounds that have been inflicted on our relationship. But for now, I need to say goodbye. I wish you all the best, and I hope that you can find happiness and peace.
With a heavy heart, Daughter Messages received in spam folder after blocking:
Fri, Mar 10, 7:35 AM
Good morning Daughter I am sorry for my message sent on 2/28. I was reacting basically on someone else's action to me which was wrong of me. Am sorry for that. I love you mom
Fri, Mar 10, 8:59 AM
Am at work and received your email. You can blame all that has gone wrong with our relationship on me . It hurts more than I can say to know my daughter doesn't want me in her life. Am praying for my mom being very ill at this time and now I lose you. Take care and I love you so much . Mom
—---
Fri, Mar 10, 6:09 PM
Am giving your words back to you. I did apologize and you still made the choice to let me not be in your life, I am hurt but will honor your choice. I will love you always. I did the right thing and apologized to you. In time I will make peace with what is to be in time. Mom
So, if anyone has read this whole thing, what do you think? Should I stay no contact? Do you think this could be salvaged? I feel really guilty, like I should reach out to her again. What do you think I should do?

Sailesh sat listlessly watching the rain drops just lazily slapping the window pane he was next to. He'd just arrived from a flight not long ago. Not only could he still feel the strain the long flight had on his knees, he was yearning to perhaps, stretch them out. But an Asar in Kathmandu doesn't relent. The downpour was vicious, often making it difficult to have any fun time. Forget hiking, he'd be lucky to even get past the hotel without getting soaking wet. As he took another long swig of his cigarette, he contemplated the life choice that led him to the place he was currently. Surely, it'd mark a closure, perhaps seal the old wound. He'd relish this.
As his breath clashed with the pane, and fog slightly formed, he was interrupted by the host,"So brother, what will you be having today?". He impatiently waved him off, angry that the waiter had interrupted his train of thoughts. The waiter, rather meekly said,"So will you have anything else, sir? This is your 6th peg, Mother was wondering if you'd like anything else". Sailesh softly chuckled before replying "I'm waiting". As the waiter gave him a knowing nod, and gently faded away, he took another swig of the whiskey he was drinking. Cheap shit will always be cheap, in this shithole, he thought to himself. Still, anything to get that familiar burn down your throat, with the slight buzzy sensation in your temple. For the money he was tossing at it, he couldn't possibly complain. It would be that he dearly missed his scotch - his favorite poison. He rapped at the table impatiently, she hasn't changed a bit, had she? Always taking her sweet time. As he could make out the silhouette of a woman with a child through the foggy glass, he grew excited: "She came, she finally did!". Not only that realization made him jerk back from him day dreaming, he proceeded to straighten up, and pull his hair back. After taking a few moments to compose himself, he hailed the waiter silently to take away the glass and empty his ash tray. As the entrance door slowly opened, he could make out his once love of his life, slowly approaching him with a kid, his, presumably. Aakanshya was a woman of sophistication, and absolute grace. The moment she walked towards you, you'd feel a gentle breeze on your forehead, whilst the back of your throat dried out, and you just wanted to steal a gaze from her, as long as time allowed. Her full lips often made you aware that even despite not smiling, she had a soft, gentle curve that made her face anything but hard. Suffice to say, Sailesh felt a cocktail of emotions within him growling, as he looked at a woman he once loved over anything else.
As she sat down with the kid, Sailesh gently motioned towards her. After a brief eye contact, he felt as if they were pulled down, away from it. Perhaps he still had feelings for her. Perhaps he was here to find out why things happened, the way they did. Still, he could feel the pangs of that same constricting pain in his heart, as if someone, or something, held it. It took an effort breathing in. And thus, he started, "So Aaku...". Aaku gently smiled back, that same smile he now knew he yearned for more than 5 years. As she waved, the kid chimed in, "Is he the uncle you were talking about, mummy?". Aakanshya slowly nodded, then proceeded to speak, "Yes, Sailesh uncle here is my best childhood friend. We practically grew up together, just like you and Saakshi". "Eww, Momma grew up with a boy? That's so funny hahaha". "No Arya, uncle here was very good at tying my ribbons! Firstly, say hi to uncle, will you, dear?" Arya suddenly shouted, "Namastey Sailesh uncle!" in a manner that could only be described as being contagious. It was impossible not to have your heart melt right there and there, this some five odd years old brat, speaking in the cutest manner possible. Sailesh extended his hand "I'm Sailesh, how old are you?". Arya looked puzzled at the hand offered to her, promptly looking towards her mother for clues on what to do. As Aakanshya motioned Arya to shake his hand, Arya followed suit. Sailesh hasn't shook a hand that was more tender, warm in a while. As he dismissed her hand, he directed his gaze towards Aakanshya. "How long has it been, again?" he said, words slightly slurred. Perhaps the whiskey finally hit. As Aakanshya drew a long breath, Sailesh leaned back, reaching for his zippo. That's when he noticed her hard gazed, the same stone cold, disappointed pair of the most beautiful doe eyes one could imagine, staring through him. As he followed her gaze to Arya, it hit him that perhaps lighting a cigarette in front of a child, wasn't the best of decisions. Arya chortled,"Look momma, uncle smokes too, just like Daddy!". As Aakanshya frowned,"Momma are you about to shout at uncle?", with the most innocent of eyes. Sailesh bit his lips in a mixture of embarrassment, and restlessless. Yeah, fucking A man, fucking A, light a cig right in front of the kid.
"So how have you been?" Sailesh said, huffing after his own silliness. Aakanshya answered,"I'm doing great, Sailu, how are you doing?". "Doing fine. Company offered me a vacation plan, I rejected, caught the very first plane from Cali straight here so I could perhaps go visit old friends. But with this weather...", Sailesh chuckled. Aaku sighed, "Well, that's a nice change I suppose. You always were the overworker". As Sailesh motioned the waiter yet again, he asked Arya, bored, "So what will you have, Arya?" Arya took the menu, and immediately pointed at what she wanted : An icecream. Well, she was certainly her mother's child, this girl. Once the orders were placed, Sailesh spoke "So what are you doing these days?" Aakanshya slowly turned her head towards Arya, and said "Well, mostly taking care of Arya. Housework was much more difficult than I imagined", she smiled softly. "How long are you staying?" Sailesh sighed,"Hard to tell. I can return anytime, but I was looking to meet old faces here. Suffice to say that's nigh impossible at this weather. So I'm probably going to get holed up in a hotel till I get back home". "And how are your parents, how's Aunty doing?" "You know they're dead, Aaku. Why must you ask?" Aakashya's eyes widened,"When?". Sailesh bitterly replied,"It's been what, 2-3 years?" "I'm sorry, Sailesh, I didn't know that". Sailesh's lips curved ironically, as he smiled and retorted,"Well, it's none of your business anyway, so there". Before those words were barely out, he regretted saying it. "But I do care. And I'm sorry." Sailesh could see hints of tear well up in her eyes. "Sorry I wasn't there for Aunty and Uncle". Sailesh whipped back, "Well they'd not count on it, after all, you abandoned me". Aakanshya look at Sailesh, with a look of surprise, speechless. Arya, startled, looked at Aakanshya, "Mommy, are you crying? Are you about to have a fight with uncle, just like daddy?" Sailesh asked, opportunistically, "Do mommy and daddy get in fights often?" "Yes, daddy shouts at mommy, and mommy shuts the door and cries. It's really sad, you know -" Aakanshya interrupted Arya's monologue, and quietly motioned her to hush. So Sailesh went into brooding, before letting out his next question, "You're happy with him, aren't you?" He could feel Aakanshya visibly disturbed, silent. Perhaps blaming her from the get go wasn't the best of ideas. At the same moment, the orders were served, and that was the end of that. As mere small talked, veiled in pain were exchanged on both sides, Sailendra couldn't help but walk down back the memory lane.
It was that night, that had been their last. They had sneaked out of their friend's wedding together, got to his apartment, then started making love. Intimacy with her was a special time, he'd only been vulnerable with so many women. As they rolled over the bed, he had gotten up to look at the moon-lit fields across the window. He had sat down in the arm chair, contemplating the difficulties ahead in life. He was but merely deep in thought, when she had rolled over, glistening in sweat beads, whilst gently being caressed by the moonlight. That's when she'd said, "Sailu, we should get married, na?" He had but merely scoffed, looking at her saying, "Babe, I'm hitting the states next week, I won't be back for at least 4 years, you seriously think I'd be able to take care of myself, let alone you?!" Whilst running his fingers on her playfully, he'd find her smiling slightly, then turning over, pulling the blankets. And that was the exchange they had, before she abruptly called Sailesh a week after he landed on states, stating she was getting married soon. And him, in a foreign land, feeling utterly dejected, and betrayed. Why did she choose this banker, over him? What possibly could that bald jerk give her, that he couldn't?
As Sailesh was wading through the free fall of his thoughts, reality struck when Arya tugged at his jacket. "Uncle, will you come home? I'll show you my doll". Sailesh, frowning, shook his head. Suppose it was time to part ways. The visit had been extempore, after all. He had called her on messenger right as he landed, perhaps to make peace with himself. Though how exactly this meeting ended up making him any less disturbed than he already was: He wouldn't know. All he knew was the ship had sailed, and he was left out in the rain. As the bills were paid, and they stood in front of the restaurant under umbrellas, Sailesh said "Well, guess this is it then. Take care, alright?" As Aakanshya turned after nodding, he could have sworn he saw her back shake.
As he stood there, questioning himself, all the while lighting his cigarette, he couldn't help but kick himself for being an ass. Perhaps he went too hard on her. After all, she did come, didn't she? And yet, he was right there, in the same spot she left her, 6 years back. As the gentle pitter patters of droplets onto the puddle singed but meekly, he looked at the mother-daughter slowly walking away from her. He was but just there, looking at her, then her daughter, a spitting image of her, going away, engrossed in conversation. As he scratched his nape, he couldn't help but spot a familiar birthmark on little Arya. Something he had grown accustomed to, often bemoaned about for being unsightly. Then it dawned him, that perhaps, this would be the last time he'd see her, as he couldn't possibly face himself after today's charades.
Not after what just happened, not after what he said to her.

After years of being unhappy together, my daughter's mother recently moved out.
We had been together 10 years, engaged for 5, but never married. When we met, she had a 4 year old daughter. After a year of dating, they both moved in with me. At the time, I was a bartender and she was a bank teller. Wanting to provide a stable family environment, I began looking for more traditional jobs.
After struggling to find a career as opposed to a job, I decided to go back to school and obtain a masters degree. At the same time, my fiancee went back to school as well (had dropped out after less than 1 semester the first time). I worked a full time day job, waited tables at night and on the weekends and helped her with her school work. She graduated four years ago. She is now waiting tables (only part time).
We had a child together in 2016. It was my hope that this would be her incentive to work harder to provide the nuclear family I wanted so badly for my child. Instead, I took on a ton of debt, provided probably 90% of the financial support for a child who is not mine biologically, and found myself constantly asking for more of a contribution either financially or from a day to day parenting perspective.
Problems really began to arise when my daughter (her 2nd) was born. The day she was born I overheard grandma telling fiancee's bio daughter that "he will never love you as much as he is going to love your sister." 1st daughter's bio dad was a bit of a deadbeat, so it wasn't so much of a red flag when she would talk crap on him openly, but using a different name (being young, I didn't recognize the attempts at parental alienation). She now does the same thing to me. My fiancee is so traumatized from being abused by this woman (fiancee's dad was never around), that she is, at the age of 37, unable to even confront her about abusing daughter 1 emotionally. It became my mission to protect daughter number 2 from the same abuse.
From the time we've been together, it's basically been what's mine is ours and what's hers is hers. She promised so many times to start being accountable. In an act of desperation, I enlisted her aunt's help to explain fiancee's behavioral issues. Privately, aunt told me I should leave her and take daughter 2 far away from the generational abuse.
Aunt's sons have been a part of my life for most of the 10 years we've been together. They are aspiring "rappers", both without a father figure in their life. It was not uncommon for them to come to my house after a dispute at home and stay for a few days until things calmed down. Both are adults who still live with mom. Recently, one came to the house again. When I asked what had happened, he responded that he and his brother had robbed someone for marijuana directly in front of their mothers house. Knowing that his "friends" had accompanied him to my house for family events on more than on occasion, I explained (in maybe a less than friendly manner) that he was not welcome to hide out at my house after committing crimes and that I did not want that type of behavior around my kids.
I had reached out to a therapist for couples counseling and fiancee and I were on the waiting list (the demand is sad). For years, I've been asking her to find work that would allow her to be available to the kids after school on a regular basis. For most of our relationship, I have spent at least 2-3 nights a week alone while she worked until 10 or 11 pm. She claimed that she was staying on top of things and for some reason I believed her. She was supposed to pay our rent for the first time in ten years on April 1 (I've avoided buying a home where we live because I didn't want my daughter to grow up here).
Last weekend, her car got repossessed (I had no idea payments weren't being made). I lost my shit (as I have often done out of frustration, desperation, etc.). She is now staying with her aunt in a house where drug crimes are being committed, one of the residents is fresh out of rehab on a fentanyl overdose, and there's an aggressive pitbull.
She's always been good at pretending to be a sweet, caring person to those who aren't close enough to see through it (something she learned from her mother). Daughter 1 doesn't want to be there and daughter 2 has expressed fear of the aunt and her dog. Fiancee is regularly hanging out with two women who cheat on their husbands (one with a cocaine dealer). When I ask if she thought she would like me to behave this way, she says "you obviously don't know who I am". I don't know if she is doing drugs but I have my suspicions.
I work 60 hour weeks, she works 20. I gave her daughter a better life than she could have, while she refused to improve her circumstances. Daughter 1's bio dad is dead, so I've been her primary caretakeprovider for ten years. She doesn't like me very much because of the conflicts I've had with mom and grandma, but she knows I am there for her.
This week I also found out that daughter 2 had been referred to family court for truancy issues. Wife wasn't reporting absences properly, took kids on 5 day vacation on a whim (when bills were presumably going unpaid), and is habitually late to everything. Daughter 2, who is now six says "I'm always the last one to school" and is late regularly. Fiancee did not inform me that school had even expressed concern.
I feel like I've been used and abused, but I'm not without fault. My frustration and concern for my daughters safety has led me to lash out verbally on many occasions. However, I think fiancee blaming this for her shortcomings is a cop out. It's just that no one sees or hears about her neglect towards her family.
Daughter 1 is 14 now. Her mom is more of a sister to her than a mother. I practically had to beg fiancee to get her into therapy. When she needs something, she knows she can't count on her mom. She regularly says things like "mom only cares about herself." I don't say negative things to her about her, but I also don't disagree with these things.
Daughter 2 begged me last week to beat mom to school pickup so she could be with me. She and I are more connected than she and mom.
I live in a state where 50/50 custody is assumed. CPS has been notified of my daughters fear of her aunt and her dog (she expressed it at school). I'm talking with a lawyer and it seems I'm going to spend a ton of money just trying to force mom to be accountable and on time.
What's really fucked up is that somewhere in my head, I still want it to work. I do love her, but she's not a good partner and she's not been a good mother to the girls. I think she has a victim mentality and is not able to be honest with herself about her behavior.
I feel fiancee is delusional (I'm told she's a victim of enmeshment, emotional incest, etc.) in regard to her view of herself. She talks of a future that isn't attainable given her current circumstances and behavior. She talks of travelling when she is older, but made 21K last year. There's almost zero chance she will ever even be able to retire. She's going to need someone to support her financially forever. When I point out that she's not behaving in a way that aligns with what she says she wants, she says "you're just negative".
I'm scared for both girls well being because I know mom doesn't pay much attention to them. She's either smoking weed, texting her friends, or playing with her hair.
I know that I'm supposed to try and be my best self and try to smile while eating the shit sandwich I've been served. But I've felt like I had three children for a number of years now.
I can't tell if I still want a future with her or if its even remotely plausible. I feel like she hangs around people who are worse off than she is to boost her ego and I've had to put a number of them in their place as it relates to their interactions with my kids. At this point, I've got quite a few middle aged waitresses who hate my guts. I watched one scam daughter 1 out of her birthday money with counterfeit goods (at the birthday party, minutes after she received her gifts, and mom did nothing). Grandma and aunt now hate my guts too. Fiancee no longer spends time with old friends who are actually thriving. I'm guessing this is, in part, due to shame over how she is behaving.
I feel like I just want my kids to be safe and be around people who are doing positive things with their time. Apparently, my not wanting my kids around drug activity and emotional abuse, makes me someone who "thinks he's better than everyone else". Depending on the situation, I'm either a negative person who doesn't believe in himself or I'm an arrogant jerk. Fiancee also says I have abandonment issues, though she's been told by others that she has abandoned me in our relationship (I feel she just never showed up).
For the better part of the last 3 years, I've been struggling to make ends meet while she tries to "find herself". She says she has to put herself first to be the best she can be for our girls. While I don't disagree with this, I don't think that it means what she thinks it means.
I feel like I'm the only one who has to see who fiancee really is.
My emotions desperately want things to be fixed, but I'm fantasizing about a person who has never existed.
I don't feel like I've done anything to deserve not being with my daughter every day. I may be a lot of things, but I've been a great dad to her. She loves me like crazy and we have a fantastic bond. I'm so scared to lose it.
I truly feel traumatized by this relationship. Does anyone have a similar experience? Any advice on either one last ditch attempt to save what is probably an irreparable relationship? Any idea how to expedite the grieving process and come out on the other side?
I feel like she is gaslighting me and I'm scared it's working.
I realize that I'm rambling and that this is reflecting on me poorly. CPS, truancy court, and the pitfalls of restaurant industry relationships are things that I just couldn't have fathomed being part of my life at this age.
I think my ultimate fantasy is that she would show up and say "Hey, I'm going to go do my thing. I'll leave both the kids with you and I won't be back."
I'm not even sure why I wrote this.

Chef Gordon Ramsay welcomed his final 10 for another day of Hells Kitchen and said that while he was happy with the final 10 he had expected more from them so far and wanted his best challenge and service yet. He excitedly announced that the next challenge would be on Japanese cuisine which worried some of the chefs who were not familiar with Japanese food. He said that 1 chef of each team would make a chicken dish, a tuna dish, a wagyu beef dish, a salmon dish and a pork dish. The red team was keen to continue the momentum from the last 2 services and challenge while there was alot more tension in the blue team. First up was the battle of the chicken and Tennile’s dish earned 7 points out of 10 while Rochelle got 6 out of 10. The blue team continued their lead when Barbie scored 7 on tuna while Jennifer only got 4 but the red team fought back to tie as Brynn only got 5 out of 10 for her wagyu beef and Cyndi scored 9 with the best dish so far. The red team took the lead as Milly only scored 4 with his salmon and Cody scored 7, giving the red team a 3 point lead. Motto was worried about his experience with Japanese cuisine but scored an impressive 9 with his pork dish meaning Sommer needed 7 to win but she only scored 4 for her confused dish.
To add insult to injury the blue team got to spend the night in Vegas and celebrated their victory while the red team bemoaned their loss with Jennifer and Sommer devastated at their fails but Cyndi said they had to up their game for dinner service. The blue team were united again and with Barbie and Motto on appetisers they looked for a big start but Motto sent up a crunch risotto due to cooking in mid air too often however he quickly bounced back only for Barbie to send up undercooked pasta on the next ticket. The problems continued early on as Brynn sent up burnt scallops and Chef Ramsay told her she should know how to cook “fucking scallops by now” Barbie then sent up 1 beef tartare rather than 2 as the service continued to be painful before Ramsay demanded it’s time for appetisers and entrees at the same time like a normal kitchen.
Milly on meat started out with perfect wellingtons and chicken but Tennile got confused on a further order and called out the next ticket before sending up spinach with too much garlic and Chef Ramsay said the service was painful at this point. Brynn on fish then struggled to communicate with Tennile and Milly as Tennile called for 2 seabass on the next ticket when it was actually 1 seabass and 1 halibut which sent the kitchen further back. This led to an argument between the whole blue team which caused Ramsay to call the whole team into the pantry to tell them that he cannot take anymore obstacles during service which saw them get it together for the next few tickets. However, Barbie got confused on orders again and after being informed it was 2 carbonara she got behind on the rest of the team and with the rest of the food dying in the window it was sent up undercooked. Chef Ramsay had had enough at this point and kicked Barbie out of the kitchen asking who’s next? After getting behind on an order of wellingtons, Tennile sent up lumpy mash potato and was also kicked out of the kitchen by Ramsay who said he didn’t care if the whole team left tonight. Motto took over the garnish while Milly continued to have a great service on meat sending up perfect veal and pork but Brynn sent up raw seabass and tearfully blamed Motto for not giving proper times but Ramsay told her to get out as well. Milly and Motto combined to finish the last few tickets but Chef Ramsay said that was 1 of the most painful services of all time.
The red team had a better start with Sommer and Rochelle on appetisers but after the 1st few tickets were sent out with no problems, Jennifer managed to undercook scallops. On a further ticket Sommer gave Chef Ramsay a bland risotto but they did bounce back again. Onto entrees and there was instantly problems as Cyndi failed to communicate properly with Cody on garnish and served 1 veal 1 wellington when there was 2 veal on order and she sent up a further order of veal that was undercooked. Ramsay told Cyndi to wake up but after an initial bounce back, Jennifer served raw halibut for the next table which was “still fucking swimming” according to Chef Ramsay. After telling Jennifer to get her shit together, Jennifer sent up halibut that was “STILL FUCKING RAWWWW!!!” and they had to restart the table again. They did manage to get it together for the next few tickets but after Cyndi got overwhelmed on the high meat orders this caused a ripple effect which sent Cody behind as well as he had to redo all his garnish. On a further ticket Cyndi sent up raw NY strip and after asking for help from Sommer, on the next order and dragging on the ticket the meat came up but Cody sent up burnt spinach which he blamed on all the other shit happening in the kitchen. Chef Ramsay called the red team “a bunch of fucking losers” and said they were on the verge of being kicked out. Sommer and Cyndi did seem to have worked together but they sent up overcooked NY strip which Cyndi said was Sommer’s fault, leading to an argument in the kitchen until they were told to “shut the fuck up” by Ramsay. After Cyndi and Jennifer stopped talking, Cyndi sent up raw veal which caused Chef Ramsay to kick Cyndi, Jennifer and Sommer out the kitchen, saying this was the worst service he had ever seen. Cody. Rochelle and Chef Christina finished the tickets but Ramsay said he needed 10 minutes after those awful services and demanded that both teams nominate 2 "fucking idiots" for elimination.
The blue team were divided on who to nominate as Barbie, Tennile and Brynn all had awful services but Milly and Motto agreed that Barbie had been lucky to not be nominated so far so said she was the 1st nominee. Barbie was furious and said this was a tactical vote and that Brynn can't cook fish while Tennile can't lead for shit. Motto said he wanted Brynn as the 2nd nominee and he said he hoped 1 of the blue team left as he'd had enough of shit services. Cody and Rochelle decided that Cyndi was the 1st nominee for her atrocious service but when Cody said Jennifer was the 2nd nominee this caused Jennifer to go mad, telling Cody he had skated by service and that Sommer proved tonight she couldn't cook or lead and that there was no way she was going up. When Rochelle said she agreed, Jennifer said "FUCK YOU" and again claimed she wasn't going up and that Sommer should go up instead of her as she was an average cook. Sommer and Jennifer had a huge argument which ended with Jennifer storming off and booting a chair over.
After all that drama Barbie, Brynn, Cyndi and Jennifer were all called forward and after passionate pleas from all 4 of them, Chef Ramsay told Jennifer and Barbie to get back in line and eliminated Cyndi for sinking the red team with her performance on meat. However, Chef Ramsay wasn't done and said "Brynn...I told you that you had 1 more chance and i'm a man of my word. Take your jacket off and leave hells kitchen" stunning the chefs with the double elimination. The rest of the chefs realised the games were over and it was 8 left.
https://strawpoll.com/polls/3RnYlVQ3Wye

With 91 boostable bosses and a cooldown of 60 days, it means that after 60 days, the boss that you want to be boosted has 1/31 = 3% of chance of getting boosted.
Actually, I've been waiting for many many months for the Source of Corruption* to be boosted (so it will be easier to find a team to complete the quest) and lucky is not on my side. I'm also waiting for King Zelos*, but I know that this one got a boost at least a couple of times.
It would be great to have a tracking info so we could check if there is a chance or not for our desired boss to be boosted.
* btw, I was ~10 days off on vacations and didn't check if those bosses were boosted recently. I appreciate if anyone could confirm it for me.

So the place that I work at has a three table section rule, which isn’t so bad. Occasionally, when the wait demanded, we were allowed more. They’ve been getting stricter about it recently and hired soooo many new servers. So now there’s never even an extra table to take.
The problem is when it’s slow, ur lucky to have even one, when it’s busy there’s still a chance ur section won’t fill up. There’s so many people you can’t even walk in the kitchen. I feel it being over-stimulating while still having nothing to do.
We do get large parties and it’s always the same people who get the “large party section” and those are the only sections that actually make money. I do get that section every now and then and the difference in my tips at the end of the night is astounding. (I’ll also add that one of the people who is always in that section recently became pregnant and can’t run her food, I know it’s petty to be annoyed by this but with everything else I just don’t feel it’s fair. Idc if she OCCASIONALLY has that section but if ur not even able to do all the work let some others also have a chance.)
I also bartend there. They have a bartender who everyone agrees can’t keep up and has an attitude problem. And tho our managers agree the owner doesn’t want to fix the issues (she has seniority and he’s not around much to actually know how bad she can get). Besides her being awful at her job, they now have two bartenders on some nights to help with “sales”. So now both bartenders are working the same long shift and making a third of their normal tips (if anything). (They are doing this because the awful bartender can’t keep on her own and when they assign her a bar back [another server who helps] she abuses the shit out of them. Idk why they’re willing to pay 2x the amount of people for a job that another QUALIFIED person can do alone. Especially since management is always complaining about labor). She also has the most shifts.
The restaurant has picked up in sales but I’m making so much less money. I love the staff but I don’t think I can stay any longer.

So I recently discovered that when we as employees are forced to take servsafe, the money that we pay goes to helping the national restaurant association (the other NRA) goes to lobbying against our own best interests. They lobby against raising minimum wage for tipped employees, they lobby against benefits, they lobby against holiday pay.
I spoke in front of senators the other day for a bill that is trying to go through in California that would make the employers the ones to pay for our food handlers cards, and not the employees. It passed, so it’s onto the next step to hopefully eventually being a law!
https://youtu.be/eeM6YZBYhLo
Here is the news article about the discovery about where the servsafe money is going.
Here in California we make minimum wage in addition to tips, and I know how lucky we are (I used to serve in Michigan making 2.65 an hour, so I know how my other servers plight!) and in solidarity we’re trying to fight the fight and get everybody paid a fair wage.

Hi there! I have been told I am the poster child for the INTP personality. I'm a huge nerd and I'm filled with social awkwardness. I'm looking for another person with similar interests to hopefully get to know and spend time with! Bear with me because I am awful at intros like these.
Overall I'm very carefree and you can usually find me playing games on pc after work. I play a lot of different games, and I'm always looking for new things too! I have been wanting to play an MMO but have someone to play with!
I like watching shows curled up on the couch too. Bojack Horseman, Arrested Development, Community are some of my favorite shows. I also watch anime too! Some of my favorites are Jujutsu Kaisen, Hunter x Hunter, and Stein's;Gate.
I'm working a 9 - 5 Monday to Friday in a software / IT related job currently. I'm also a big foodie and love to cook and try new restaurants. I'm currently living with family while I am saving up to buy a house at some point. I would love to have 2 dogs one day. I love animals in general but I love the companionship of a dog.
Physically I am white with brown hair, eyes, and a beard. Also I am short (5"4') so sorry if that is a dealbreaker! I didn't really stand a chance with my genetics on that one. Currently working on losing weight as well!
Hopefully that wasn't too bad of a read. If any part of this post catches your eye send a message with an intro about yourself! I also ask that you put at least a little bit of effort into engaging in the conversation. I'm way too awkward to keep it going one sided! I'd love to talk and get to know someone before working up to talking on a call and playing or watching something together!

Hi there! I have been told I am the poster child for the INTP personality. I'm a huge nerd and I'm filled with social awkwardness. I'm looking for another person with similar interests to hopefully get to know and spend time with! Bear with me because I am awful at intros like these.
Overall I'm very carefree and you can usually find me playing games on pc after work. I play a lot of different games, and I'm always looking for new things too! I have been wanting to play an MMO but have someone to play with!
I like watching shows curled up on the couch too. Bojack Horseman, Arrested Development, Community are some of my favorite shows. I also watch anime too! Some of my favorites are Jujutsu Kaisen, Hunter x Hunter, and Stein's;Gate.
I'm working a 9 - 5 Monday to Friday in a software / IT related job currently. I'm also a big foodie and love to cook and try new restaurants. I'm currently living with family while I am saving up to buy a house at some point. I would love to have 2 dogs one day. I love animals in general but I love the companionship of a dog.
Physically I am white with brown hair, eyes, and a beard. Also I am short (5"4') so sorry if that is a dealbreaker! I didn't really stand a chance with my genetics on that one. Currently working on losing weight as well!
Hopefully that wasn't too bad of a read. If any part of this post catches your eye send a message with an intro about yourself! I also ask that you put at least a little bit of effort into engaging in the conversation. I'm way too awkward to keep it going one sided! I'd love to talk and get to know someone before working up to talking on a call and playing or watching something together!

Hi there! I have been told I am the poster child for the INTP personality. I'm a huge nerd and I'm filled with social awkwardness. I'm looking for another person with similar interests to hopefully get to know and spend time with! Bear with me because I am awful at intros like these.
Overall I'm very carefree and you can usually find me playing games on pc after work. I play a lot of different games, and I'm always looking for new things too! I have been wanting to play an MMO but have someone to play with!
I like watching shows curled up on the couch too. Bojack Horseman, Arrested Development, Community are some of my favorite shows. I also watch anime too! Some of my favorites are Jujutsu Kaisen, Hunter x Hunter, and Stein's;Gate.
I'm working a 9 - 5 Monday to Friday in a software / IT related job currently. I'm also a big foodie and love to cook and try new restaurants. I'm currently living with family while I am saving up to buy a house at some point. I would love to have 2 dogs one day. I love animals in general but I love the companionship of a dog.
Physically I am white with brown hair, eyes, and a beard. Also I am short (5"4') so sorry if that is a dealbreaker! I didn't really stand a chance with my genetics on that one. Currently working on losing weight as well!
Hopefully that wasn't too bad of a read. If any part of this post catches your eye send a message with an intro about yourself! I also ask that you put at least a little bit of effort into engaging in the conversation. I'm way too awkward to keep it going one sided! I'd love to talk and get to know someone before working up to talking on a call and playing or watching something together!

Do you ever find yourself searching for someone to share your evenings with? Someone to banish the ghosts and keep you company during the night? You cherish your solitude but sometimes, you can't help but feel like you're missing out on something special?
Perhaps we're in similar boat then, I feel like searching in void but maybe this time it'll be different
I'm not looking for perfection, but for something even more valuable: a genuine, kind-hearted partner who will stand by my side through life's ups and downs.
I believe that when you share your life with someone, the joys are multiplied and the sorrows are lessened. With a sincere and supportive partner, life's challenges become more manageable, and the triumphs are even sweeter.
I know this might seem like a long shot - finding my soulmate on Reddit - but hey, the very existence of the universe was once thought to be impossible, and yet here we are, right? :p
A little about myself
• Appearance wise: Black hair, Dark brown eyes, 5'11, slim-built and a complexion that is fairly fair :D - a testimony to my mixed heritage and diverse cultural background.
• While I'm currently studying at university, I'm already dreaming of what comes next. One of my biggest goals is to backpack across Europe – the idea of exploring new cultures and experiencing everything the continent has to offer is incredibly exciting to me. And who knows – maybe I'll even meet some amazing people along the way!
• I'm all about living in the moment and seizing opportunities when they arise. That's why I'm totally down for spontaneous road trips – there's nothing quite like hitting the open road and seeing where the journey takes you. Of course, I'll need to be stable enough to make it happen, but I'm willing to work hard to make it a reality.
• As a person, I'm deeply passionate and love with my whole heart - to the point where it might make you feel like you're swimming in a sea of rainbows! I believe in creating heaven on earth for myself and those around me.
• Family is incredibly important to me, and I can't wait to start my own someday. Whether it's through adoption or having biological children, I'm open to both ideas – what matters most is finding the right person to share my life with. I can't wait to build a home filled with love, laughter, and lots of memories.
Interest wise:
• I love to stay active and enjoy participating in engaging activities such as hiking, bicycling, skating , volleyball, and video games. Whether it's a competitive match or a casual game.
• On the weekends, I have two moods: adventure or relaxation. Sometimes, I'll pack a bag and hit the trails for a hike or explore a new restaurant/city. Other times, I'll settle in for a cozy binge-watch of a new Netflix series or indulge in a self-care day to recharge my batteries.
• I'm a passionate reader, and I love immersing myself in books that challenge my thinking. I have a particular interest in art, psychology, philosophy, and poetry – these subjects have always fascinated me and inspired me to see the world in new ways.
• I'm always down for a good laugh and love to find joy in the simple things in life. Memes and funny reels always make me smile, and I enjoy exchanging them with friends as a way to brighten up our day and reminisce about shared experiences. Whether it's a hilarious cat video or a relatable meme that reminds us of something we've been through.
• While I don't have any niche hobbies, I'm always up for trying new things. Whether it's skydiving, trying exotic cuisine, or attending a paint-and-sip class, I'm always game for a new adventure.
What I value in a potential partnership
• I value vulnerability and raw emotions, they are at the heart of what it means to be human. I understand that opening up can be difficult, especially when it comes to matters of the heart but I can assure you that I would never judge or shame you for doing so. In fact, it only makes me respect and admire you more for being your authentic self, even when it's hard.
• If you're somone who's on the cold side and have a hard time showing affection and care, chances are we'll not get along as I'm more of an emotional person.
• Communication is absolutely everything to me, if you're the kind of person who isn't willing and able to communicate openly and honestly about your thoughts, feelings, and needs with me than chances are we won't get along, without this foundation of trust and transparency, it's difficult to build a healthy, lasting relationship.
• Respect for each other's individuality: While it's important to share common interests and values with our partners, it's also important to respect each other's individuality and unique perspectives. This means recognizing that we don't have to agree on everything to have a strong and loving relationship.
• Mutual support and encouragement: A partnership where we both feel supported and encouraged by each other. This means celebrating each other's successes, providing emotional support during difficult times, and being there for each other through thick and thin.
• Healthy conflict resolution: conflict is inevitable in any relationship, but it's important to approach disagreements in a healthy and respectful way. This means actively listening to each other's perspectives, seeking to understand each other's needs and feelings, and working together to find a mutually agreeable solution.
If you came this far, please write to me about who you are and what you are looking for, what made you reach out and anything else you'd like to include :)

There's a lot going on this weekend and even better the weather forecast looks great with 60s and 70s and only a little rain on Saturday morning.
Here's 35 local events you can enjoy at Virginia Tech, in Blacksburg and throughout the New River Valley:
1. Pink Moon Peach Milkshake IPA Release Moon Hollow Brewing, Blacksburg Friday, March 24, 2023, 3:00 - 10:00 PM Admission is free. Beer and food are regular price. Moon Hollow Brewing presents the Pink Moon Peach Milkshake IPA Release in support of the local Pink Boots Society. This year’s blend contains Loral, Eukanot and HBC 586. A heaping dose of lactose, peach purée and vanilla bean also help create a rich and delicious brew. $1.00 from each pint is donated the Pink Boots Society Blue Ridge Virginia Chapter. This helps the chapter continue to put on educational, community enriching events. The Pink Boots Society aims to assist, inspire and encourage women and non-binary individuals in the fermented/alcoholic beverage industry to advance their careers through education. Food will be available for purchase from Countryman Jamaican Grill. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685855
2. Root Down in Concert Rising Silo Farm Brewery, Blacksburg Friday, March 24, 2023, 6:00 - 9:00 PM Admission: Free Root Down is a jazz trio based in the New River Valley. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=684803
3. College Softball: Chattanooga vs. Virginia Tech Tech Softball Park, Virginia Tech Friday, March 24, 2023, 6:00 - 8:00 PM, Saturday, March 25, 2023, 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM (Doubleheader) Admission: Free Watch the Virginia Tech Softball team compete against non-conference opponent the University of Tennessee Chattanooga in a three game series. No tickets are required for Hokie Softball games. Parking is available behind the outfield at Tech Softball Park and enter along the right field side of the stadium. Stands open one hour prior to the start of the game. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685859
4. Music Theatre: "Book of Mountains and Seas" Moss Arts Center at Virginia Tech, Blacksburg Friday, March 24, 2023, 7:30 - 9:00 PM Adult Tickets (based on seat location): $25.00 - $55.00 Virginia Tech Students with ID and Youth 18 & Under: $10.00 A daring new music theatre work by composer Huang Ruo and puppeteer, designer, and director Basil Twist, "Book of Mountains and Seas" is a modern take on ancient Chinese creation myths that are relevant to our current climate change struggle, featuring the chorus of Ars Nova Copenhagen alongside massive puppets and striking lanterns. The work is sung in Mandarin with English supertitles. Book of Mountains and Seas is inspired by the ancient Chinese compilation of early myths of the same title, which was first transcribed in 4th-century B.C. Book of Mountains and Seas is a 21st-century adaptation and expansion of four of these tales. The work contains timeless codes about the universe, creation, planet, nature, life, human ambition and fate, the relationship and interaction between mankind and the planet. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=678174
5. Will Easter & The Nomads in Concert Dogtown Roadhouse, Floyd Friday, March 24, 2023, 8:00 - 11:00 PM Admission: $8.00 Will Easter has one of those voices that is like a home-cooked meal for the soul. Will has the cool throwback rock edge of Tom Petty with the modern folk-Americana appeal of the Avett Brothers, but with something hard to put your finger on that could only be born out of the shadows and peaks of the North Carolina mountains. One iteration through a chorus and you’ll find yourself humming along, by the second time around you’ll be singing out loud, ready to hit the repeat button. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=684795
6. Juxtaposition A Cappella Spring 2023 Concert: Time For A Hoedown Haymarket Theater (Squires Student Center), Virginia Tech Friday, March 24, 2023, 8:00 - 9:30 PM Virginia Tech Students: At the Door: $7.00 Non-Students: $10.00 Juxtaposition A Cappella presents their Spring 2023 Concert titled "Time For A Hoedown". Juxtaposition will be performing seven new songs including their entire ICCA set. Juxtaposition is an all-male Virginia Tech A Capella group that was established in 1994 and has since produced seven albums and been awarded numerous awards and honors. They enjoy performing their wide repertoire of 70's, 80's, 90's and current hits. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685879
7. 2023 Ramp N Roads Eastern Elementary/Middle School, Pembroke Saturday, March 25, 2023, 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM Admission: Free Renew the New presents the 2023 Ramp N Roads where volunteers will be cleaning up litter from highways and byways, boat ramps, and river & stream access points. Be prepared to pick up litter off road in ditches and over the banks. Each volunteer will be assigned a team who will be led by captain when they arrive at Eastern Elementary/Middle School. These captains will lead the on-site clean up and will provide any needed safety instructions. There will be no buses running this year. Each volunteer will take their own car or carpool and convoy to one of the planned cleanup areas. There you will be given gloves and bags to use. Each volunteer is asked to return to Eastern Elementary at noon where they will receive pizza for a to-go lunch and a t-shirt. Volunteers need to sign up in advance. This is a rain or shine event however pick up along roadways will be suspended during active rain if it happens. ReNew The New is a volunteer organization committed to stewardship of the of the New River flowing through Southwest Virginia. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685871
8. Yoga On Tap with Blacksburg Yoga Collective Rising Silo Farm Brewery, Blacksburg Saturday, March 25, 2023, 9:30 - 10:45 AM Suggested donation of $15.00-$20.00. The Blacksburg Yoga Collective presents Yoga On Tap with an energizing and uplifting flow. Flow with Blacksburg Yoga Collective in the beautiful settings of the Rising Silo Saturdays. These Kundalini-inspired, donation-based Yoga and meditation sessions focus on therapeutic movements and various breathing techniques aimed toward collective wellness. Meditate, chant, and move together to ease stress, manifest positivity, and improve our awareness and focus. Admission includes the class and a post-yoga non-alcoholic beverage from the brewery. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685840
9. 2023 Warm Hearth Village Arts & Crafts Fair Warm Hearth Village Center, Blacksburg Saturday, March 25, 2023, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Admission: Free If you love unique, beautiful, locally handcrafted gifts and art, then attend the 2nd Annual Warm Hearth Village Arts & Crafts Fair. The show will feature high-quality artisanal goods from both artists on our campus and throughout the New River Valley. Handmade items for sale will include pottery, woodworking, home goods, accessories, soaps, candles & more. The Huckleberry Cafe will be open for grab-n-go refreshments. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=683666
10. Free Wine Tasting Vintage Cellar, Blacksburg Saturday, March 25, 2023, 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Admission: Free Vintage Cellar presents Free Wine Tasting every Saturday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Join them for a decadent wine tasting at our free wine tasting. They will teach you all about the regions and grapes from the wines as you taste. After the tasing, grab a bottle or glass and enjoy it with some food from their kitchen. Must be 21 or older to participate. IDs required. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685724
11. Open Virginia Tech Football Practice Lane Stadium, Blacksburg Saturday, March 25, 2023, 11:45 AM - 1:00 PM Admission: Free Fans are invited to attend the open practice to get an early look at how the Hokie's 2023 football squad is shaping up. Gate 6 will open up at 11:45 AM for fans to enter. Note: It is prohibited for fans to take photos and videos when the Hokies are on the field. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685711
12. 2023 Beliveau Bridal Expo Beliveau Farm Winery, Blacksburg Saturday, March 25, 2023, 12:00 - 4:00 PM Admission: Free Bring your friends and family and visit with the area's leading wedding professionals on display to plan your perfect wedding in an elegant venue. Wedding vendors such as florists, musicians, photographers, bakeries and more will set up in our Great Hall to talk to you about their services. This is a great opportunity to meet many of the vendors in one afternoon. Food and wine will be available to purchase throughout the entire event. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=684117
13. Women's Lacrosse: Boston College vs. Virginia Tech Thompson Field, Virginia Tech Saturday, March 25, 2023, 12:00 - 2:00 PM Admission: Free Watch the Virginia Tech Women's Lacrosse compete against ACC conference opponent and #7 ranked Boston College. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=684297
14. Program: Vegetable Gardening Meadowbrook Public Library, Shawsville Saturday, March 25, 2023, 1:00 - 2:00 PM Admission: Free Want to grow your own vegetables, but aren’t sure where to start? Join Dr. Emma Patterson, VCE Volunteer Master Gardener, to find out more about planning a vegetable garden, caring for it, and keeping it going through year’s end. Free seeds and soil testing kits will be provided. For ages 12 and up. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685348
15. 2023 Oyster Dinner Drive-Thru Riner Volunteer Fire Department, Riner Saturday, March 25, 2023, 2:00 - 6:00 PM Admission: $15.00 The Riner Volunteer Fire Department presents their Annual Oyster Dinner Drive-Thru featuring fried oysters, baked beans, slaw and dessert. Tickets can be purchased in advanced at Eagle Express, Riner Food Center and Village Barber Shop. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685387
16. Delta Chi's Into the Wild Benefit Concert featuring Audio Fever and The Red Ferns The Milk Parlor, Blacksburg Saturday, March 25, 2023, 2:00 - 5:00 PM Ages 21 & Over: $9.00, Ages 20 & Under: $12.00 The Delta Chi Fraternity at Virginia Tech presents their Into the Wild Benefit Concert featuring music from Audio Fever and The Red Ferns. Proceeds from ticket sales will go towards the V Foundation for Cancer Research. The Red Ferns is a groovy guitar band based in Blacksburg and Audio Fever is a Blacksburg based band as well. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685882
17. March Flashlight Tour St. Albans, Radford Saturday, March 25, 2023, 5:30 - 7:30 PM Admission: $15.00 Join St. Abans for their March 2023 Flashlight Tour which includes a little history and paranormal in one. This is a guided tour. Take a walk through the dark halls of St. Albans Sanatorium and join them for a flashlight tour of the building. Hear all the chilling tales of what paranormal investigators, and the public, have encountered within these 120 year old walls. A little bit of history, a little bit of paranormal. Tickets are available online in advance and will be sold at the door provided tickets are still available. Comfortable shoes and a flashlight are recommended as there will be lots of walking and many dark areas. Dress accordingly as the building is not climate controlled. You must be 18 years of age (16 if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian). Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685883
18. March's Beans and Banjos (Final Event) Meadowbrook Public Library, Shawsville Saturday, March 25, 2023, 6:00 - 8:00 PM Admission: $5.00 requested donation The Shawsville Ruritans and The LINC Letter presents March's Beans and Banjos and the final event of this series. Nothing lasts forever, not even Beans and Banjos. March's Beans and Banjos will be the last. Instead of having a couple of bands the organizers are inviting everyone who's ever played or sung at Beans and Banjos to come out and jam to play Beans and Banjos out in style. Beans and Banjos has been going for at least 14 years. Enjoy a dinner of beans, cornbread and desserts. Organizers ask for a donation of at least $5.00 to help keep the LINC Letter publishing. The LINC Letter is the non-profit community newsletter for Eastern Montgomery and is distributed to residents of Alleghany, Elliston, Ironto, Lafayette and Shawsville, Virginia. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685325
19. Amelia Empson in Concert Rising Silo Farm Brewery, Blacksburg Saturday, March 25, 2023, 6:00 - 9:00 PM Admission: Free Amelia Empson plays a variety of Indie-Folk and Americana covers and originals from the Appalachian Mountains with talent far beyond her years. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=684804
20. Salsa Night 2023 Beliveau Farm Winery, Blacksburg Saturday, March 25, 2023, 7:00 - 11:00 PM Advance Tickets: $12.00, At the Door: $15.00 Join Beliveau Farm Winery for a dancing experience with your loved one, group of friends, or come single; you are bound to have a good time no matter what. Lessons begin at 7:00 PM and the event lasts until 11:00 PM. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685126
21. 2023 March of Ales Mardi Gras Celebration German Club Manor, Virginia Tech Saturday, March 25, 2023, 7:00 PM - 12:00 AM Admission: $50.00 The Blacksburg Junior Women's Club (BJWC) presents the 2023 March of Ales Mardi Gras Celebration featuring unique beers for tasting, along with wine and a signature cocktail. Coffee, water, lemonade, hors d’oeuvres and desserts will also be available. Guests will enjoy entertainment by a DJ, dancing, and a live and silent auction. The auctions feature an extraordinary variety of items donated by local businesses and individuals. At the end of the evening, discounted Uber service will be available to guests. Tickets will be available for purchase at the door if the event is not sold out in advance. All money raised at March of Ales is used to fund service projects and donations throughout the year. The funds have benefitted groups and causes such as Special Olympics, Salvation Army, Ronald McDonald House, Montgomery County Christmas Store and many others. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685695
22. WUVT's Jazz Night with Copy Cat Syndrome and Yung LZRD Odd Fellows Building Lodge #20 (Wilson Avenue), Blacksburg Saturday, March 25, 2023, 7:00 - 10:00 PM Admission: $6.00 Join WUVT for a night filled with the sweetest jazz melodies provided by Copy Cat Syndrome and Yung LZRD. Copy Cat Syndrome is a fusion trio performing jazz based in Blacksburg, VA. LZRD is a jazz band from Blacksburg, VA. Entrance to this event is ticket only (sold online) with a maximum of 50 being sold. Doors open at 6:00 PM and the music starts at 7:00 PM. WUVT-FM 90.7 Blacksburg is the New River Valley's only source for independent, alternative programming. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685887
23. TechNotes Spring 2023 Concert: TechNotes Lightnin’: Feeling the 50s Haymarket Theater (Squires Student Center), Virginia Tech Saturday, March 25, 2023, 7:00 - 8:30 PM Advance Tickets: $5.00, At the Door: $7.00 TechNotes presents their Spring 2023 Concert titled "TechNotes Lightnin’: Feeling the 50s". Enjoy a night full of new songs and old TechNotes favorites and chances to win epic raffle prizes. TechNotes is a co-ed A Cappella group at Virginia Tech that performs at various events throughout the year. TechNotes was founded in 2010. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685878
24. Caroline Owens & Company in Concert Floyd Country Store, Floyd Saturday, March 25, 2023, 7:00 - 10:00 PM General Admission: $15.00, Reserved Seating: $20.00 Caroline Owens is a 2X IBMA nominated Bluegrass and Gospel artist. She has performed alongside many of her heroes such as Alison Krauss, Suzanne Cox, The Isaacs, Larry Gatlin, Darin & Brooke Aldridge, Lorraine Jordan and many others. And, has made quite a name for herself in the North Carolina bluegrass community. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685713
25. Hoppie Vaughan & The Ministers of Soul in Concert The Floyd Center for the Arts, Floyd Saturday, March 25, 2023, 7:30 - 9:30 PM General Public: $15.00, Students: $10.00 Don't miss your chance to see the long awaited return of Hoppie Vaughan & The Ministers of Soul. It will be a fun, funky night of soul. The diversely talented Hoppie Vaughan is all about the soul! He is a blue eyed soul singer, song writer, guitar and bass player. Besides performing solo, he is the front man for Hoppie Vaughan and the Ministers of Soul based out of Roanoke, VA performing classic soul, R&B, blues and funk. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685712
26. Three Band Concert with Kenny Vaughan, Sullivan Smith & Stray Lions and Friend of the Three Southpaw Cafe & Community Space, Blacksburg Saturday, March 25, 2023, 7:30 - 10:00 PM Admission: $5.00 Southpaw Cafe & Community Space presents a Three Band Concert with Kenny Vaughan, Sullivan Smith & Stray Lions and Friend of the Three. Friend of the Three is a band based in Virginia that performs adult alternative, pop and rock. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685881
27. Stand-Up Comedy Show Lost In Taste, Christiansburg Saturday, March 25, 2023, 10:00 PM - TBD Admission: $7.00 The Cosmic Comedy Club returns with performances by comedians Sage Delong, Derek Budd, Julia Goyer, Tony Rodriguez, Jermaine Callando and hosted by Andrew Gustafson. Recommended for ages 18 & up. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685853
28. 2023 Hot Diggity Dog Day (Fun for Your Dog) Beliveau Farm Winery, Blacksburg Sunday, March 26, 2023, 12:00 - 6:00 PM Admission: Free Bring your pup and come have a day at Beliveau Farm Winery annual canine event. There's 165 acres of dog fun for your furrr-ever friend to explore and relax. Fresh air, dog parade, lots of outdoor space. Beliveau will have food and drinks for purchase throughout the day. With every hot-dog sold, they are donating 20% of our proceeds to the Montgomery County Humane Society. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685322
29. Community Quilting Bee: Rotary Cutting Fabric Blacksburg Library, Blacksburg Sunday, March 26, 2023, 1:00 - 3:00 PM Admission: Free Blacksburg Library presents their monthly Community Quilting Bee with the the topic "Rotary Cutting Fabric". This month atteneeds will learn how to use a rotary cutter and ruler to make accurate fabric pieces. Everyone is welcome including beginners. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685349
30. Book Club: The Winemaker Blacksburg Wine Lab, Blacksburg Sunday, March 26, 2023, 1:00 - 3:00 PM Admission: $40.00 Join the Blacksburg Wine Lab for the Wine Lab Book Club tasting & discussing featuring "The Winemaker" by Noah Gordon. About The Winemaker: Josep Alvarez is a young man in the tiny grape-growing village of Santa Eulália, in northern Spain, where his father grows black grapes that are turned into cheap vinegar. Joseph loves the agricultural life, but he is the second son, and his father’s vineyard will be inherited by his brother Donat, the firstborn. He yearns for a job growing grapes and for an opportunity to marry Teresa Gallego. In Madrid, an assassination plot, conceived against the political leader of Spain by men of wealth and power, creates a storm of intrigue that sucks into its vortex a group of innocent young farm workers in Santa Eulália. How Josep’s life is changed drastically by these events, and how, ironically, they gradually turn him into an inspired vintner with an evolving vision of life, is the fascinating story of "The Winemaker". During the Book Club, enjoy four fantastic Spanish wines to taste. Chef Bryan will create a pairing board of house–made Spanish tapas, cheese and charcuterie to accompany the tasting. Reservations required. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685385
31. Willard Gayheart and Ricky Cox performing "Old Favorite Songs of the Blue Ridge" Floyd United Methodist Church, Floyd Sunday, March 26, 2023, 2:30 - 3:30 PM Admission: Free The Floyd County Historical Society presents an encore performance of Willard Gayheart and Ricky Cox performing "Old Favorite Songs of the Blue Ridge. Ricky Cox’s friendship with Willard Gayheart also goes back 35 years. This shows in the programs they present together, harmonizing and appreciating one another’s contributions as they delight their audiences. Willard is a pencil artist from Southwest Virginia. He is originally from Eastern Kentucky, working mostly from the theme "Nostalgic Glimpses of the Appalachians". His works are positive images of Appalachian Culture, presenting the region as a place alive with interesting personalities. Besides his artistic talent with the pencil, Willard is also an accomplished bluegrass musician having played as a member of the bluegrass band The Highlanders. Ricky Cox has been entertaining and educating many of us for decades. Throughout his teaching career at Radford University he shared the history and culture of our region through his music and writing, earning a number of special recognitions along the way. Ricky contributed his photographic talents to the second of two books featuring Willard Gayheart’s drawings. Note: The event was originally scheduled for Sunday, March 12th, but had to be postponed due to inclement weather. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685328
32. Blacksburg Community Band Spring Concert Blacksburg High School Auditorium, Blacksburg Sunday, March 26, 2023, 3:00 - 4:00 PM Admission: Free The Blacksburg Community Band presents their Spring Concert conducted by David McKee and Associate Conductor, Dean Chiapetto. Christiansburg High School's band director, David Miller, will be guest conducting. Jefferson Ritchie will solo on trombone. The Blacksburg Community Band, Inc. is an all-volunteer community organization formed in 1989 under the auspices of the Department of Parks and Recreation in the Town of Blacksburg. The ensemble is open to individuals of all ages and ability levels from the New River Valley and surrounding areas. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685314
33. Helping Hands Fundraiser with Spaghetti Dinner and Live Music Belview United Methodist Church, Radford Sunday, March 26, 2023, 4:30 - 7:30 PM Donations Appreciated Join Belview United Methodist Church for some fun and great fellowship all while helping support a wonderful mission. Help them fund their Helping Hands Pantry by enjoying a spaghetti dinner starting at 4:30 PM, silent auction, raffle and live music from Eddie & Sherry Richards and Spoken For beginning at 6 PM. Belview's Helping Hands Pantry supplies clothes, personal care items, cleaning items and household items to those in need in Montgomery County, Radford, Dublin, Giles County and Pulaski and other surrounding areas. The Silent Auction starts at 1:30 PM and ends at 7:30 PM with over 40 items to bid on. There are over $2,000 in prizes for the raffle. Raffle tickets are $5.00 each, $10.00 for three or $20.00 for seven. Donate a pack of diapers, pull-ups or Depends and get three free raffle tickets on the day of the event. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685880
34. Indian Run Stringband in Concert Palisades Restaurant, Eggleston Sunday, March 26, 2023, 5:00 - 7:30 PM Admission: Free The Indian Run Stringband from Blacksburg, VA plays fiddle and banjo foot stomping dance tunes and sings traditional songs with old time harmonies perfect for dancing the two step. From dance tunes to the blues, the Indian Run Stringband plays with love and abandon. They make old-time music fresh and new. Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685310
35. Virginia Tech Percussion Ensemble in Concert with Guest Artist Michael Burritt Moss Arts Center at Virginia Tech, Blacksburg Sunday, March 26, 2023, 6:00 - 7:30 PM General Public: $15.00, Seniors: $12.00, Students & Youth: $10.00 The Virginia Tech Percussion Ensemble, under the direction of Annie Stevens, performs a concert with guest artist Michael Burritt who is one of his generation’s leading percussionists. He is in frequent demand, performing concert tours and master classes throughout the United States, Europe, Asia, Australia and Canada. He has been soloist with the United States Air Force Band, Dallas Wind Symphony, Omaha Symphony, Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra, Richmond Symphony Orchestra, Ju Percussion Group (Taiwan), Percussion Art Quartet (Germany) and the Amores Percussion Group (Spain). Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=685872
Have a great weekend and thanks for reading!

EDIT: I apologize if this sub is for Dashers only. I tried to see if it was for customers as well but the Customers FAQ is a broken link. I'll redirect to another sub if this is not allowed. Thanks.
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I had a $60 order from Wendy's Wednesday that was a mess. DoorDash Chat rep was great... gave me only $45 of it back but it was fine - wasn't gonna haggle.
Last night I used $30 of my $45 credit to reorder this time from Denny's. (Do not EVER order from Denny's....JESUS... that's another rant). Well - they completely F'ed my order too. Forgot half of it, and delivered me a breakfast sandwich with no sides and missing half the toppings.
Chat reps (an OBVIOUS unspoken company policy... this has happened before) after miles of copy / paste apologies... tell me to wait 24 hours for my "case to be reviewed". They ask if there's anything else they can help with (because they have to) but they disconnect the chat before I have a chance to answer. This is obviously playbook DD chat policy.
I've been told in the past I've been refunded "too much" regardless of the different restaurants' constant screw ups.
TL/DR - HOW do I get through to a person on the phone to get some satisfaction. DD's attitude in this scenario always seems to be... "What'r you gonna do - not order from us anymore?!"
DD clearly has no intention of resolving this, and obviously has a note on my account to chat reps to walk through the mandatory parts on the convo... then disconnect me. Who if anyone can I call when things like this happen? And I hate saying it - but STATESIDE WOULD BE PREFERRED.

Assets and Debt

Retirement Balance: $36,428 in a Roth IRA, $4,571 in an individual brokerage account, and $19,960 in a 401k. Right now I contribute 6% because my company’s match policy maxes out at 3%. I’ve always contributed this much regardless of my salary progression to max out my company’s policy. I’ve been at the same company for the entirety of my salaried career so this is all of it too!
I go to my Dad for pretty much everything money-related. I’m very lucky to have a father who opened up a Roth IRA for me at 22 and practically forced me to open up my own brokerage account a little before I turned 26. Right now I contribute $250 a month to my Roth and $250 to the S&P 500 at the end of every month. This is an automatic payment out of my bank account so I always leave enough in my checking account for this to avoid a late fee. My dad is huge on maxing out a Roth IRA so my parents match the other $3,000 each year. I would have significantly less in my Roth IRA without this and I’m extremely grateful. Apart from this and my phone bill I’m financially independent and would love to make a little more money soon so I can max out my Roth IRA on my own. (It’d really be ideal if I stayed on my parents' family plan for my phone though haha.)
As mentioned before, I really didn’t want to open up a brokerage account at first because I was (and still am) extremely intimidated by the whole process. Eventually I gave in and we settled on an automatic payment to the S&P 500 so I really don’t have to think about things. As usual, my dad was right and I’m really proud of that $4,571 since opening it up. I contribute the same amount regardless of how well the market is doing too to make it easier. I also do not touch this money ever because my spending habits can be all over the place (I’m working on it!)
Savings Account Balance: $1,580 in emergency savings
At the height of the pandemic this was up to $10k. I paid NYC rent while living with my parents until my lease ended and then kept living between my house or my BF’s to save as much as possible. Living at home really messed with my relationship with my parents (and my independence honestly) so I scrambled back to NYC in June of 2021 and furnished this apartment with the majority of my emergency savings. My boyfriend lives with me now but he didn’t then, so this felt AWESOME knowing I did it by myself. I’d ideally love for this number to be much higher so I’m working on it. It’s admittedly been hard because of my spending habits.
Checking Account Balance: $551.63
As mentioned above, I contribute $500 at the end of every month so I like to keep that amount in my checking account. I put all expenses on my credit cards and only pay rent and utilities directly from this account at the end of the month when I get paid.
Credit Card Debt: $0

Income

Income Progression: I started as a “mommy’s helper” when I was 12 years old for some families on my street and quickly became the resident babysitter on the block as I got older. This was great money in high school in addition to my jobs! Through high school and college I worked as a cashier at a bakery, a receptionist at a hair salon, a day-camp counselor, an associate at Skechers (this was easily my favorite because 3 of my best friends worked there at the same time), a wedding videographer, and the front desk of a camera equipment facility at my college.
I’ve been working in social media (with a focus on video production/editing) for 6 years, two years of which were internships. I’ve been at my current job for just shy of 4 years now at an advertising agency in NYC. I graduated college in 2018 with a 6-month fellowship at a pretty big news website as a video producer making $22/hour. I was one of about 50 interns (15 of which were also part of my graduating class). The job description was identical to that of an Associate Video Producer and the only difference was the pay. I remember being devastated when I wasn’t offered a salary of $50,000 like some of the people in my intern class.
For the next 6 months I was living the unemployed life. This was a super dark time in my life and I remember feeling so worthless. The amount of unanswered applications really got to me and I really wanted someone to just give me a chance. During this time I made due by walking and watching more dogs than I can count (S.O. Rover and Wag!) and wrote a ton of freelance articles. Fun fact, I only heard back from companies during my employment that I had connections at. (I was ghosted or immediately rejected from every other company I applied to. Connections. Are. Everything.)
Finally, I was hired as a Video Editor working on a TV network account. My starting salary was $60,000 which I was super happy about at the time so I didn’t even bother negotiating (huge mistake!) I only made this salary for about 9 months before the pandemic hit and I was partially furloughed. My salary was cut by 20% for the next 6 months. Making $48,000 obviously wasn’t fun but I was living at home at the time and my only real expense was the rent I was still paying in NYC so I was still able to save a good amount at this time. I also got Fridays off because of this and it was a DREAM!!! I’ve never been more productive honestly so I’m a hugeeee fan of the four-day work week trend going around right now. Right around my 2-year anniversary I got Wa 15% raise to $69,000. 11 months after that I was promoted to Social Media Producer and my current salary of $80,040.
Monthly Take Home: $4,413.40

Expenses

Rent: $1100 (my boyfriend and I currently share a lofted studio for $2200/month)
I’ve been in my current apartment for just shy of 2 years now which is a big deal considering I left every apartment prior to this after my 1 year lease ended! Our current lease is up in September and we’re DYING for more space.. I’m really nervous considering the housing market in New York so TBD on how that’s gonna go.
Electric: $35ish in the winter (my share). My share of the bill can go up to $115 or so over the summer which is brutal.
Subscriptions:
Gym: $92
Apple Music: $10.99
Pet insurance (my share): $24.40
Wifi: $54.99 (I cover Wifi in full and my boyfriend covers Youtube TV for us)
Debt Payments: I’m very lucky that I have $0 debt after school.
Parental Help: Phone plan, Streaming services (Amazon Prime, Netflix, HBOMax, etc. and their Roth IRA match for me every year).

Diary

Day 1:
9:15am: I roll out of bed (I’ve been working on going to bed and waking up earlier and am failing). Since it’s Friday I order pick up from the Starbucks down the street and pick up H and my usual orders. I’ve been known to get into funks where I order Starbucks every day for H and I. Right now I only allow myself Friday Starbucks to combat this. I pre-load my card in $25 increments so technically this order was free.
9:30am: I’m back and ready to start my work day. I anticipate a pretty quiet work day today and since it’s my birthday this weekend I really want a haircut. I found an amazing place in Chinatown months ago that I want to go back to because I’m not trying to spend a ton of money. I call and make an appointment for 5pm
4:30pm: I leave my apartment and get ready to catch the Subway to Chinatown. $2.75
5:40pm: I chopped a few inches off and my hair hasn’t been this short since I graduated college. I’m especially obsessed with my hair because of the price. $51.60 with tip!
5:45pm: I make it to the subway and get ready to go home. $2.75
6:15pm: I make it home and greet my dog and get him dinner. As I’m going through my closet and trying to figure out what to wear for my birthday celebration tomorrow, I get a FaceTime from one of my friends from home. She made it to the city (she’s staying at a mutual friend's place) and is wondering if I want to grab dinner and drinks with them. I accept and start to get ready.
H has been out all day watching March Madness games with his friends so I make sure to give our puppy some extra treats and love while I’m home. After a long shower I throw on my coat and get ready to meet my friends for dinner.
7:15pm: I make it down to the Q with 1 minute to spare before the next downtown train. Always a win! $2.75
7:45pm: I greet my two friends L and P and we immediately start discussing what we’re craving for dinner. We eventually settled on a Mexican place just a short walk away. We get large specialty margaritas, an order of guac and chips, and three orders of enchiladas. It honestly was not the best dinner considering we didn’t get our drink orders until we were halfway through our entrees. Upon getting the bill, we noticed that the restaurant charged a 20% tip with our orders so we split the bill evenly three ways! $76
After dinner we make our way back to P’s apartment. After a couple more hours of catching up I decided to call an Uber home. $22.91
Daily total: $135.85
Day 2:
9:30am: I wake up and am already so excited for the night ahead. (That’s my excuse because I decided to break my Starbucks rule right after I wake up). This time I do have to reload my card. $25.00
9:45am: I make a quick trip to the grocery store for some breakfast supplies for H and I. I’m cooking today! $15.78
Our dinner reservation isn’t until 8pm and I have no plans before then so I lounged for most of the day. At one point H and I decided to take our dog to the dog park for an hour before starting to get ready for the night ahead.
H picks up the car to the restaurant. We went to a pizza place that makes pizzas up to 10 feet long and it was such a fun night. One of my best girlfriends and I share a birthday three days apart so we decided to celebrate together this year. The final bill is $1402.20 and I am happy to put my Amex down for the 4x credit card points. (Fun fact: I have not paid for a flight out of pocket in two years since having this card. I love it!) People will be paying me back though, so my share is only $78.
We spent the rest of the night bar hopping and ringing in my birthday at midnight. It was honestly such a great night. When we were finally done dancing and ready to turn in, H and I caught a cab with one of my best friends and her boyfriend since we live close. H picked up the tab as well as my drinks throughout the course of the night so it was technically free!
2:20am: We arrive home and start getting ready for bed. I start chugging water hoping I’m not hungover on my birthday. (I swear my hangovers get worse every year).
Daily total: $118.78
Day 3:
10:30am: My steady water intake from the night before definitely helped because I woke up not hungover! I spent the morning cuddling up to H and my puppy on the couch while I answered several “Happy Birthday” phone calls from my family members. I seriously have the best family in the world and I’m so grateful for my parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins that still take the time to this day to make the day feel special!
12:00pm: Five of my friends from home show up at my apartment because we’re planning to all go to a birthday brunch together before they catch their trains home. We settle on a fun diner and H joins us! Since it’s my birthday, my friends and H all split my meal for me so it was free.
2:00pm: My friends grab their bags from my apartment and we start to say our goodbyes. I’m so happy they were all able to come in for the weekend to celebrate!
4:00pm: Since I’m not as full from lunch anymore I decide it’s time for my birthday Starbucks. I always try to order something expensive since it’s free!
7:00pm: After a nap and some lounging on the couch, H asks me what I want for dinner. I settle on sushi and H ordered UberEats for us.
The rest of my birthday consisted of watching Netflix, taking a 30 minute shower and doing a face mask before crawling into bed. It was truly such a nice and relaxing birthday after the night before. 10/10.
Daily Total: $0
Day 4:
8:30am: It’s Monday and it feels very much like it because it’s pouring outside. I spent much of the day working from my couch instead of my desk because it felt right.
12:30pm: H stays home on Mondays too and neither of us feel like making lunch. I venture out and buy us some Sweetgreen for lunch. $28.69
2:00pm: Today is an extremely slow day at work so I decided to subway to my friend's apartment to pick up some of the leftover pizza from Saturday night earlier than planned to avoid rush hour. I want this pizza to be our dinner tonight so I can avoid cooking again. $2.75
3:00pm: After some catching up with my friend I returned to the subway with pizza in tow! $2.75
3:30pm: On my way home I stop by the local smoke shop and see my friend Mary Jane. Since she’s legal now in New York I’m seeing her more often. $135.20
4:30pm: I’m going to a friend’s Bachelorette next month and one of her bridesmaids just sent the itinerary for the weekend ahead. She asked us to Venmo her for a couple of the activities ahead of time. This is going to be my first Bachelorette I’m attending so I don’t have much to compare to, but this entire process has been so organized in my opinion and the bridesmaids have done a great job at keeping it as affordable as possible. $70.62
7:30pm: I finish out the rest of my workday and heat up some of the leftover pizza from Saturday in the airfryer for H and I. I love enjoying my Monday nights watching the Bachelor with a glass of wine in hand, so I pick up a bottle of wine from a shop right off the subway. $16.32
After a couple glasses of wine and “the most dramatic episode ever of the Bachelor” H and I start getting ready for bed.
Daily total: $256.33
Day 5:
8:30am: I roll out of bed and start getting ready for my workday. I had to shoot a couple pieces of content this day so I didn’t spend much of the day sitting down which was really nice. I currently work on a couple food brands’ social media content doing anything from food styling, food photography, video content, etc. It’s a lot of fun and definitely allows me to tap into my creative side.
12:30pm: Since I worked through my lunch while eating more leftover pizza, I decided to get a gel manicure during my lunch break. This is a habit I picked up after my last promotion and I don’t regret it. I’m really trying to prioritize self care the more I get older. $46.59 with tip
5:30pm: I finish out the rest of my work day and start to get ready for some dinner plans with a friend who couldn’t make it Saturday night.
7:00pm: I say goodbye to H and my puppy and catch the train downtown to dinner. $2.75
10:30pm: My friend and I spent hours at this restaurant gossiping and ended up being the last two people there! Oops! It was a cute little Indian restaurant and reasonably priced considering the amount of food we ordered. We split the bill down the middle. $69.44
11:00pm: I arrive home after getting myself a cab home instead of taking the subway. I had a bad experience not too long ago and I like to avoid going late at night if possible. I know it’s not the best financial habit but tonight I feel anxious. $22.20
Daily total: $140.98
Day 6:
9:30am: I totally stayed up way too late scrolling on TikTok last night after dinner so I sleep in super late this morning. Thankfully today is just a meeting day for me so I settle in at my desk and try to imagine my Keurig coffee is Starbucks instead.
12:30pm: H had to stay home today from work because of an arrest warrant that went wrong on the street of his office building (scary!) I have a buy-one get one free deal at Chipotle that’s going to expire soon so I offer to buy us lunch. $17.42
Tonight H and I have dinner plans with one of his best friends and his girlfriend P. P and I also have birthdays just a couple days apart so the four of us decided to celebrate together.
5:30pm: I stop working and start getting ready for our 8pm reservation. We’re going to Il Mulino which is one of our favorites but definitely more of a special occasion restaurant due to the prices.
7:30pm: H wants to take a taxi to dinner so he offers to pay. We get to Il Mulino just in time for our reservation and had such a great night. After a few hours we notice that we’re the last table at the restaurant and H makes a joke that I did this the night before too. (I promise this is not a typical thing for me haha). H splits the tab with P’s boyfriend.
10:45pm: I order H and I an Uber home and we call it a night pretty much immediately. $17.16
Daily total: $34.58
Day 7:
8:30am: Another day of meetings for me. I have a couple of client meetings where I have to present some of the content I’ve made in the last couple of weeks that all went well.
12:30pm: H stayed home again today because we’re planning to visit his family this weekend and we need to pack. I’m really jealous because H has leftovers from our dinner but I don’t so I have to go out and buy lunch. I buy myself some chili and a piece of bread from a place near our apartment. $10.89
6:00pm: I polish off the rest of the day by brainstorming a couple more concepts for the month ahead with my Social Media Manager. Around 6:30pm H’s dad picks us up (he drives to Manhattan every day) and we start driving home to H’s family’s house. Although we always run into traffic, H and I like doing this because it’s easy with our puppy and we avoid paying for a train.
8:00pm: H’s dad picked up a pizza on the way home for all of us to enjoy and we’re starving by the time we get back to the house. After dinner we caught up with H’s brother and watched some Netflix before going to bed.
Daily Total: $10.89
Weekly Total: $697.41
Reflections: This was definitely an expensive week for me but I do identify as a messy spender for a reason. I don’t typically go out to eat as much as I did this week but it was my birthday and I definitely celebrated! (If this were my weekly total every week I wouldn’t be able to keep my credit card debt at $0 so do keep that in mind). I’ve been working on saying no more to things if I don’t think they’re worth the money and my friends and I tend to cook in our apartments together more than going out anyways but it certainly is interesting seeing how much money I can waste by cutting corners like subways and cooking lunch/dinner. As I mentioned in the Assets and Debt section I don’t touch any of my investments for a reason because the amount of money I spend month to month can be drastically different. Here’s to a much more frugal next week of spending!

So im still a teenager and so is my friend, we are both getting along well and shit but sometimes i just cant listen to her anymore, she’s funny and caring ig, but sometimes when i brag about my insecurities or something she’s mostly gonna ignore and just send a tik tok later like nothing happened, every time i wanna go out with someone else and idk if i should i ask because im not sure but she will always say no and be like “I would never” and stuff like that, i cant do s lot of fun shit because she’s kinda cheap, like she barely wanna get food from restaurants because it’s a waste of money even tho it’s like once a few weeks when i ask and nothing more than 10$, she always brags about how expensive stuff is after i tell her when she asks but then proceeds to compliment it after saying “ I would never pay for that like waste of money” but at the same time saying she wants nice things, i also grew up partially poor because u grew up with a single mom without child support but i still dont make a fuss about the price of everything. I understand some people dont have the money but im sick of paying her shit and never getting my money back, like i just can’t anymore, i feel like sometimes she’s jealous or something, she complains about me talking to some people she finds toxic even tho they arent to me and my friends dont need to be hers too, she complains about the money i spend even though she doesn’t get it that Its not my fault she’s just mostly mean to people especially she fucked up some of my chances on getting friends because she just said stuff to them and made me feel guilty when i was nice to people. She also complains about my gym membership saying it’s too expensive when it isn’t judging by what the gym has, and she knows im insecure abt my body but she just says that I shouldn’t thinking it would change something, im trying to get healthier and she just trynna ruin that too, i need more friends and that’s what im gonna do tbh but idk cuz she’s gonna fuck that up too. I just needed to say what i think right here because im just mad and stressed