How car exhaust pipes manufactured
A Failed Kickstarter. What I’ve Learned and What’s Next?
2024.05.19 23:43 DirtyGoldGames A Failed Kickstarter. What I’ve Learned and What’s Next?
Some of you might know me here. I have posted about the creation of the tabletop game Goblin Auction. This post is meant to be an overview of what I did to create my game, market it and start a Kickstarter for it. Spoiler alert, the Kickstarter did not reach its funding goal and I will also go into what I learned, what I would do instead and what is next for my specific project. I hope you can glean something from my experience if you are also going to games yourself and thinking about self-publishing.
I worked on the creation and marketing of Goblin Auction from about August 2023 to April 2024. That is about 8 to 9 months of really putting in the hours and being serious about game creation. I started as anyone should. Some basic printed cards and components and just playing the games with friends on a regular basis. I honed the project to a point where I had the basic idea of what I was going for and I could move on to the art. (Note: I understood that the game would likely go through many changes before the end. This may require me to redo art or change some significant things, but for personal motivation, starting the art and getting some semblance of what the final game would look like was important to me. Also, starting art and putting out posts can start accruing more attention than just a text post about a game’s creation.)
I have the luxury (or maybe not haha) of being an artist and trained in creating illustration. I didn’t have to pay for someone to design my game for me so the majority of the time spent on the game was spent with me drawing. Art, in my opinion, is the best way to market your game. A good looking and polished product is always better than a good concept in text format, although preferably you’d want both. With drawings I was able to start posting about my game. I felt like this was the best course of marketing for the project initially that costs no money and I could record speed art timelapses and post progress in stages to get feedback from a growing community of people.
Throughout this process, I was posting on mainly Reddit and Instagram. I had a YouTube and posted sometimes to it but not often and everything was mainly art. Retrospectively, I think what would have been a better idea was creating a dev log of how the game is going, what part of the process I am at, showing off the game’s core mechanics and new abilities and combos I was working on. It would give people a better sense for the game’s mechanics beyond just the flashy art as I found that, towards the end, the main thing that I didn’t feel like I conveyed well was how the game was played.
I eventually tried to start branching to new platforms. The one I really liked and found the most value from was Discord. I set up a server, just a general chat and a voice channel and started getting people actually interested in the game interacting there. I think what I wish I would’ve done is started seeking out as many communities that already had my target audience, tabletop gamers, and mingled there more. I also tried to establish myself on BoardGameGeek, but I found it unnecessarily un-user friendly. I have heard from many people that it is the hub for many people when it comes to tabletop gamers, but it was unnecessarily complicated to create a game page and designer page and even understand what the best course was when it came to even using it, so I abandoned it altogether. Not sure if that was the right move and I do think that it may be something I need to really crack down on and understand when moving forwards.
Then came finding a quote and the Kickstarter. I found a quote from Panda Game Manufacturing for about $8000 for 2000 units with the idea that international shipping would cost $2000 and I personally added a buffer of $2000 to be safe for a total of $12,000. In hindsight, this was wayy too high. I saw big projects get funded and assumed if I had a good product and did my job, that it would be enough to fund. And I still think this was possible, but I had to do a lot more advertising wise to get over that hump (advertising is not my strong suit, so admittedly this was the hardest learning curve I had to overcome). Anyways, long story short, the Kickstarter didn’t get funded, reaching only about 29% of the final goal, which I will emphasize is a LOT and I am very grateful for everyone who did actually contribute and sorry that the full vision wasn’t realized into a product.
So, what have I learned?
- I learned that I need to stop thinking so big so early. Of course, the dream should be to go into bulk manufacturing and I’m not saying I never will do that, but for a first game with a growing community, runs of a smaller amount of units, therefore a cheaper funding goal would be better, and if I exceed that goal by a large margin then I can talk about quoting for a larger amount.
- Advertising should NOT only be done through free means. It can only get you so far to try and adhere to every subreddit’s guidelines on self promotion and showing off what you have before you’ve exhausted everyone that’s going to see your product. I think that if you’re serious about tabletop game creation, you should understand that it will cost some money. Of course a huge savings of mine was doing the art myself, but I should have had a plan for marketing and budgeting that out to begin with before I pressed the launch button. I started to go through Meta advertising and paying to boost posts on Instagram, but I think I should have done that before the campaign started and used that follower count on the pre-launch page to gauge the general interest for the product.
- In terms of paid advertisement as well as resources for better looking advertisements, I should have gotten a few prototypes made, done some photo shoots myself and also sent out copies to board game reviewers and streamers to try.
- I should have created specific video trailers and explanation videos. A “How to Play” video was definitely a MUST that I did not create. Beyond that, little posts about card interactions and different strategies in the game would’ve been a great idea to boost engagement, especially releasing that over a planned period of time to always have something new to post about.
And what’s next for Goblin Auction?
I have heard that a failed Kickstarter is the worst outcome for up and coming games due to image and perception of the game. I personally take it as a big lesson and don’t have any plans of giving up just because my first try didn’t go as I wanted.
For Goblin Auction, the game is not dead to me. It just needs more work. More tiers for Kickstarter than just “Base Game”. For the second launch I will be creating new expansions. An Orc expansion that allows for PvP combat, and a Gremlin expansion that allows for co-op gameplay and a variant Hut deck that allows for different decisions when getting victory points to win the game. I would create all this before re-releasing as well as seeing about trinkets and ad-ons to give backers better options and more to have a more well-rounded Kickstarter experience. This also includes those How to Play and explanation videos that I had been avoiding before.
For me personally, though, these new expansions won’t be immediate. I will take my time in creating something that truly is worth investing money into, like was my mindset with the original base game of Goblin Auction. I also will not solely focus on Goblin Auction and pursue some other game ideas that I have had for a while. This is all happening outside of my day job, so it definitely is going to be a long process, but I am truly excited to show off the ideas I have had, and to make more games!
Thank you for those who have followed my journey so far and stick around for the future of Dirty Gold Games!
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2024.05.19 23:43 Frosty_Bookkeeper682 Shorty headers noise
| Noise after shorty headers Good afternoon, Was wondering if my fellow Dodge owners could help me. I recently installed some AFE shorty headers on my 22 Durango Rt. I still have the stock CATS (mid pipes) with a full Borla exhaust system. When I did the headers I put all new hardware & remflex gaskets. Starting recently I started getting a weird chirping noise on acceleration and deceleration, the noise happens at about 1500-2500 rpms but varies sometimes. The driver side cat is really close to the heat shield under the cars firewall. I have banged on it to see if I can get it to repeat the noise but absolutely nothing….. I have checked the system for leaks and nothing. I also tried moving the headers to see if there is any play in them that would cause and exhaust leak and nothing. If anyone has had any experience in this please help me out lol. The noise is driving me crazy I’ll be posting a video. submitted by Frosty_Bookkeeper682 to Dodge [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 22:37 LazyReaperYT Hired someone for $50 bucks to build a resume for me, yet I still don’t get callbacks, did I get scammed?
For context, I’ve been mainly targeting customer service jobs (i.e, retail, shooting ranges, bass pro/cabela’s type stores, even places like WALMART or Ace’s hardware etc.). And I haven’t even gotten so much as an interview call.
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2024.05.19 22:36 No_Math6278 The cast's relationship with the survivors and the victims' families (based on what they have said in interviews and social media).
Played survivors:
- Matías Recalt (Roberto Canessa): He calls Dr. Canessa “Robert”. Although they don’t resemble each other physically (other than having big noses), they do have similar personalities. Matías could not cry on set, his emotions were kind of blocked (his father had passed away very recently), but Roberto says he was never able to cry in the mountains either. Matías is also headstrong and would sometimes do things his way instead of the way Bayona asked for him, which was very Canessa of him (1).
- Agustín Pardella (Fernando "Nando" Parrado): He calls Nando his favorite hero and feels that he has taught him a lot about resilience, and makes him want to become a better person (2). He considers Nando a friend, someone with a lot of emotions and warmth, which he had to block in the mountains. Rather that portraying the “superhero” that the media has often painted Nando as, he focused on getting to know him as a person and bring his humanity onscreen (3).
- Agustín Della Corte (Antonio "Tintín" Vizintín): He and Tintín had already met before, since Tintín used to be the president of the Uruguayan Rugby Union, and Della used to be part of the national rugby team (3). They hugged when they met for the movie for the first time (4). tThey met a lot of times, and he got very interested in what Tintín felt in each moment, the emotional details, which is exactly what the survivors wanted. Him being a rugby player helped a lot. Tintín feels that he was able to capture a lot of the essence of what he lived in the mountains. The first time Tintín watched the movie, he didn’t know how he felt about it, because it transported him to the mountains (2).
- Felipe "Pipe" G. Otaño (Carlos "Carlitos" Páez R.): His mother made him read The Society of the Snow when he was younger, so he was more familiar with the story that the average Argentinian. He guessed that he was playing Carlos Páez before the roles were revealed because of his age, physical traits, and what lines he they made him read. He not only Carlito’s book, but also the ones written by his parents. He also watched a lot of interviews with Carlitos (3). He went to Carlitos’ house and met his family. They texted a lot during the process of filming, and still text semi-regularly (2). He also relied on Pablo Vierci on set for details of his personality (3).
- Tomás Wolf (Gustavo Zerbino): He didn’t only get close to Gustavo, they had a barbecue together, and he always answered his questions (3). He also got close to Lupe Zerbino, a daughter. He played in a football (soccer) match, Zerbinos vs Canessas (Zerbinos won). Zerbino still shows him support in social media, even liking more political posts (5).
- Esteban "Kuku" Kukuriczka (Adolfo "Fito" Strauch): He read the book as soon as he got a clue of what the movie was about. At first, they talked at the hotel for around three hours, then he went to his home and met his family, they could empathize with each other (3). Fito and his wife recently went to watch one of Kuku’s theatre performances (2).
- Francisco Romero (Daniel Fernández): They talked a lot. The first time they met up alone, it was in a hotel. Daniel had a lot of love when talking to Fran. Fran feels like he would have played a similar role/made similar decisions in the mountains. According to Chori Segura, Daniel is physically a lot bigger than Fran irl (4). From Daniel, Fran takes away temperance, listening to others, being able to put the group first (3).
- Rafael Federman (Eduardo Strauch): When they met, Eduardo gave him his book as a gift. He would always answer Rafael’s questions (3). Eduardo always received him warmly (2). Rafael took the exit sign of the plane as a souvenir from set, same as Eduardo irl (5).
- Andy Pruss (Roy Harley): He got his information from the books and interviews. But also from talking to him, and how he sees himself in the mountains, 50 years later, what he did right and what he did wrong, specially about not being able to keep his emotions in check, which ended up affecting him a lot (3). Roy took him out in his car to see the places where he grew up, where he studied, his childhood house. Roy also went with Andy and his parents to the beach (2).
- Juan Ignacio "Juanicar" Carusso (Álvaro Mangino): Álvaro as a character had never existed in the other movies, so he felt a lot of responsibility playing him. Álvaro took him home and personally taught him how he used to crawl with a broken leg. He would always answer any question he had (3). Álvaro and Margarita also took some of their family to set, for the hospital scenes (2).
- Simón Hempe (José Luis "Coche" Inciarte): Once his participation got confirmed in the movie, he bought the Society of the Snow and another book about the event, on a whim. It ended up being Coche’s book (3). He feels like he bonded with Coche, since day 1, almost like a grandfather. He also got close to his family, specially his (now) widow, Soledad (2). His death was very hard on Simón (3). They talked a lot, at his house, by phone, on set. They got close enough that Simón could show up to the Inciarte household unannounced (2), and Coche called him his “favorite actor”(2). Coche personally coached him on set for the rescue scenes (told him to remember to smile) and in the hospital (him and Soledad still remembered very clearly how their reencounter was). Soledad says that the movie was something that gave Coche energy despite being ill, and that watching it made him proud. He once met some friends of Coche by chance, and they shared pictures and memories of him (3).
- Valentino Alonso (Alfredo "Pancho" Delgado): When they first met by themselves, they couldn’t look at each other in the eye. Pancho is still very affected by what happened, and Valentino wanted to transmit the emotions (including impotence for nor being able to convince Numa to eat enough to live) that he could still see in him, but also fears the movie broke him a bit too (2). According to ML Berch, his manners are similar to Pancho’s, also him being very good at talking while still being reserved (4). Pancho told him still considers Numa his life’s biggest friend (3).
- Esteban Bigliardi (Javier Methol): Javier had already passed away (2015) by the time the casting started (2021). He got his information from reading books, watching interviews. He got to know that Javier, despite having a hard life, had a very strong spirit, passion for life, compassion. He asked the survivors about him, and they would say that Javier was love (3).
- Rocco Posca (Ramón "Moncho" Sabella): For the last round of casting, they sent him a video of Moncho, and he says that he nurtured himself with it, he felt like Moncho (3). They became really close, and he talks to Moncho informally, as a friend, on Moncho’s insistence (2). They talk a lot on the phone (2). Rocco feels that they formed a kind of connection, that he got some of his energy. Their families stories are a bit similar (ie. Moncho helped his father in the fruit market stall, while Rocco’s uncles did the same on the other side of the river, in Argentina), and also he would get certain feelings or trains of thoughts while in character, that he would later discover were similar to Moncho’s own in the mountains (3).
- Luciano Chatton (Pedro Algorta): They met alone at least once in Punta del Este, in 2021. They walked together, and Pedro asked him if he had read his book. He had, but hadn’t finished. They ended up talking for about 4 hours. He doesn’t want to talk a lot about Pedro, because what he says may be different from reality. Pedro seems to still carry wonder and timidity from the mountains. (2)
- Agustín Berruti (Roberto "Bobby" Francois): He too is from Tacuarembó, part of the Uruguayan countryside. He went to Bobby’s house. Bobby said that he didn’t have any idea as to why they sent him there, because he wouldn’t be able to help him with anything. So they drank wine and talked about the countryside life instead (1)
Played Victims
- Enzo Vogrincic (Numa Turcatti): He didn’t get to meet Numa’s twin, Leonardo, as he passed away in 2009. But he did meet Daniel Turcatti, another brother, and his children. He was given a tour of the Turcatti’s childhood home, and Daniel would recall different anecdotes in each room. Numa would have absolutely hated being a protagonist. The survivors and Bayona say that he resembles Numa in the fact that he would constantly bring himself down for not being good enough (1)
- Fernando Contigiani (ArturoNogueira): After the dinner with the survivors, he was taken to the Nogueira’s house and had a big tea time with them (3). They also accompanied him during the whole process of the movie. Arturo’s siblings, Gabriel and Selina are very thankful towards him, say their family is open towards him, and think Arturo would have liked his work. Cristina, another sister, says he helped her close her mourning process. He was the first person Selina called after she watched the movie for the first time (2).
- Benjamín “Chori” Segura (Rafael "El Vasco” Echavarren): His biggest source of information were Rafael’s sisters, Daniel Fernández helped him a lot too, since he held a lot of love towards Vasco while in the mountains. He tried to see what all three sisters shared, because Rafael could have had those same things too (4). The first time he met the Echavarren sisters, they asked if he would be their brother, and he answered that he would try. They hugged and cried, they laughed and talked for hours. The sisters have both said that they love Chori and that having him is like having their brother back, somewhat (but that Rafael was more shameless) (2).
- Paula Baldini (Liliana Navarro): She was able to talk to a sister, a friend, and her daughters (3). The most emotional part of filming was meeting the Methols daughters in the airport, since she was dressed exactly as their last memory of her. They all cried, and thanked her a lot (5). Male Methol says that the movie helped her picture the mother she didn’t get to grow up with (1). The other children also say that the movie helped them close the cycle (3).
- Diego Vegezzi (Marcelo Pérez del Castillo): He says that he got a lot of who was Marcelo from the Society of the Snow book, and also from "Del Otro Lado de la Montaña", the book written by the families. He had the same role as an empathetic leader in his family, the team and in the mountains (3). When they first met him, the survivors gathered around him because he looked so alike Marcelo (6). Stella, sister, says that what she saw in the movie feels like the Marcelo she knew, that his death onscreen brought forward the feelings she had bottled up for 50 years, and that the movie remembered that the 16 that made it back did it so because of the 29 left behind (1).
- Blas Polidori (Gustavo "Coco" Nicolich): He relied a lot in Coco’s letters, since they have so much of his personality (3). He mostly talked with Álvaro, also nicknamed Coco, the younger brother. They met at his office, alongside an acting coach. They talked about what Gustavo’s essence was, their family, their parents, how them, as a family lived the tragedy. Álvaro tends to leave supportive comments on Blas Instagram from the Nicolich family business account, he says that Blas could bring Coco back in his last moments and was thankful for it, even if he saw him suffer (2). He also keeps contact with Álvaro´s daughter, Coco’s niece, Pauli (3).
- Emanuel Parga (Sgt. Carlos Roque): Roque’s family didn’t want to talk much with the production, because they were still angry and felt disrespected because of his portrayal in Alive (1993) (3). He got in contact with Alejandro, Roque’s son, and also people from the Air Force. The first time he met Alejandro, they couldn’t speak, but they cried and hugged, it felt like two friends meeting again after a long time. He promised that he would honour his father, bring his dignity back (2). Roque’s sister got in contact with Ema only after the release of the movie, and was both relieved and happy with it. She liked that they portrayed the love he had for his job (3).
- Felipe Ramusio (Diego Storm): He had played rugby as a kid. He got in contact with Diego’s brother, and also a family friend. The survivor that helped him the most was Carlitos (very close to Diego, even named one of his kids after him), who invited even him to his house. After the movie, the family contacted him again and congratulated him (3).
- Alfonsina Carrocio (Susana "Susy" Parrado): She mostly talked to Nando. He was very descriptive on how she was injured, what she could and could not do after the crash, how Liliana would take care of her (3).
- Santiago Vaca Narvaja (Daniel Maspons): He was welcomed to Daniel’s nephew’s house with tea and chocolate. He keeps contact with the Maspons sisters, specially with Rosario, the eldest. They showed him a lot of love. She thanked him for helping her understand what happened in the mountains. He does not resemble Maspons in personality, since Daniel was very shy and not very talkative, and had to learn to have a silent presence (3).
- Juandi Eirea (Juan Carlos Menéndez): He did play rugby for 15 years, which helped him with characterization. The Menéndez family didn’t take part in the movie production (3).
- Federico Aznárez (Enrique Platero): His father trained in the Old Christian’s gym as a kid, so he had always had a big connection to the story. He re-read the books after being cast. He got in contact with Roberto Canessa, before the casting even finished, and they talked for about 30 minutes in Dr. Canessa’s workplace (the hospital), mostly about how their life were before the crash. He phoned Roberto before the last round of casting, because the books had very little information about Enrique, and Canessa invited him home to practice his scenes, and also to talk a lot about Enrique and his family. Netflix wasn’t able to contact the Platero family, so Gustavo Zerbino did it instead. They had a barbecue with Enrique’s nephews and nieces, who knew very little about him, and Fede asked Zerbino a lot of questions, with some chime-ins from the Plateros (3). He later got in contact with Martín Zerbino (son), Juan Pablo Nicola (son of the Nicolas, who passed away in the crash) and, alongside Juani Eirea went to the Valley of Tears in February 2023, where they left letters for Enrique and Juan Carlos (2).
- Jerónimo Bosia (Franciso "Panchito" Abal): Netflix was not able to contact the Abal family, most of them had already passed away. After the movie release, a step sister sent Carlitos an audio message, which got to Jerónimo through Pipe Otaño, talking about how she could now understand that Pancho didn’t make it back so that some would be able to (3).
- Agustín Lain (Carlos Valeta): They told him that he resembles Valeta in his looks and his youth (3). It’s unclear who “they” are, if they were survivors, Vierci or Valeta relatives.
- Lautaro Bakir (Julio Martínez-Lamas): He got to meet the family while filming, which was something very impactful for him. He met a sister while filming at the airport, him in character with a beard. He got most of his information by what Pablo Vierci and Zerbino told him. He was not a rugby player, but was a big fan of the Old Christians and would always participate in the chants (3).
- Lucas Mascareña (Fernando “Flaco” Vázquez): He met Teresa Vázquez, a sister, and her family when they saw him characterized at the airport, and hugged him without saying anything. They recognized him, and could see both his eyes and facial expressions that he played Fernando. A friend of el Flaco says that Lucas’ acting brought him back (2). Fun fact, the actor is a commercial pilot.
- Federico Formento (Daniel Shaw): He was initially unable to contact the Shaw family, so he got bits and pieces from the books. He eventually met with Miguel Shaw, Daniel’s brother, after Pablo Vierci got him his contact, while they were filming the Uruguay scenes (3).
- Francisco Bereny (Felipe Maquirriaín): Sandra Maquirriaín (sister) was involved in the process of the movie (1). I could not find any interview with him.
- Toto Rovito (Alexis Hounié) and Julián Bedino (Guido Magri): Although they do have interviews, I could not find footage of him talking about whether he met the families of who they played, or if they talked with the survivors about them.
- Louta (Gastón Costemalle), Maximiliano de la Cruz (Lt. Col. Dante Lagurara): Although they have speaking roles, I could not find interviews with them talking about SOTS.
- Pablo ??? (Dr. Francisco Nicola): To Juan Pedro Nicola, son, seeing him acting at the airport was magic, like seeing them again (1).
Did not board the plane:
-
Fran Burghi (Alfredo Cibilis): He couldn’t meet Alfredo due to schedule conflicts (3).
Sources:
1) Netflix:
Who Were We on the Mountain?,
Tom Holland interview + many shorter interviews with families, survivors and cast.
2) Actors and survivors' personal Instagram accounts.
3) I
nterview by Moobys (YouTube) 4)
Interview by Fangirleando y Chismeando (YouTube) 5)
Juanicar's livestreams 6) Society of the Snow book (newest edition)
EDIT: Added more links
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2024.05.19 22:35 saturnotaku Gigabyte Aorus 16X review: Loud fans + poor software almost ruin otherwise decent laptop
| Disclosure Statement: The laptop reviewed here was sent to me free of charge through the Amazon Vine program. All opinions are my own. I was not otherwise compensated nor has anyone other than Amazon reviewed or approved this content before posting. Specs: Core i7-14650HX 32 GB RAM GeForce RTX 4070 1 TB SSD 2560x1600 165 Hz display Windows 11 Home TL;DR: It's the title, basically. The look and feel of this gaming laptop is good, but because of unoptimized software and fans that can get extremely loud when gaming, it's not one I can recommend unless available at a significant discount. Design/Build/Ports: The 2024 update to the Aorus line brings a nice, clean look with the deep blue finish a particular highlight. The metal and plastic chassis has a quality feel. The side air exhaust vents unfortunately push the ports toward the front of the laptop, which can be awkward. On the left from back to front are the power input (240W with a nice, compact adapter), Ethernet, HDMI 2.1, USB-A 3.2 10 Gbps, and a USB-C Thunderbolt 4 port that supports up to 100W of power delivery. The right has USB-A 3.2 10 Gbps, a second USB-C that's 3.2 10 Gbps with DisplayPort video out, microSD card reader, and headphone/microphone combo jack. Removing the bottom panel reveals two upgradable memory and M.2 storage slots, along with a Wi-Fi 7 card. One particularly unusual thing about this laptop is how the display outputs are wired. Both USB-C ports are wired to the integrated graphics so HDMI is the only way to bypass Optimus. The laptop has a MUX switch and if you set it to the dGPU, video out via Type-C is disabled. Screen/Keyboard/Touchpad/Speakers: At 2560x1600 resolution and a 165 Hz refresh rate with G-Sync and Advanced Optimus, the screen is sensible for the hardware. From what I’ve read, it’s pretty much the same panel that was in the 2021 Legion 7. I don’t have the tools to do an exact measurement, but those who do report 100% sRGB color gamut coverage and around 70-80% of AdobeRGB and DCI-P3. So it’s more than sufficient for gaming, but content creators who do color-critical work will want to look elsewhere. Keyboard feel is just OK – better than most Acer and Razer laptops but well below Alienware, Asus, or Lenovo. Key travel is sufficient, but the bottom out sensation is rather mushy. Backlighting is separated into zones rather than per-key, which is disappointing given the somewhat premium pricing. There’s also lighting on the back that projects the Aorus logo, which I find pretty tacky. There’s no numpad but a row of dedicated home, end, page up, and page down keys on the right side. I appreciate having them, but this means the trackpad is off-center. Speaking of the trackpad, the glass finish is very smooth. It’s easy to manipulate and accurate. Because it’s off-center from the keyboard, it needs to have excellent palm rejection, and for the most part it’s true. I’ve had a few instances where I could see the mouse cursor move while typing, but it wasn’t enough to be a bother. The speakers are just sort of there – reasonably loud but practically no bass. They’re fine in a pinch, but you’re going to want to use headphones whenever possible. Software/Performance/Battery Life: This is where the Aorus 16X ultimately falls apart. It starts with the Gigabyte Control Center (GCC), the main software hub for the laptop. I’ve owned gaming laptops from most every manufacturer and can say with confidence that GCC is far and away the worst. It’s confusing/hard to use and bloated with unnecessary junk like stable diffusion image generation. What’s worse is pretty much everything you’d want to do in terms of controlling things like the power profile, display refresh rate switching when running on battery power, and more are completely reliant on the software. Other gaming laptops like the Lenovo Legion offer simple keyboard shortcuts to do these things without needing to touch the software. That’s not the case with the Aorus. Changing power modes requires opening the software, navigating menus, and several mouse clicks. Even being able to right-click the system tray icon to do this would be welcome. As for what this laptop is like to game on, my feelings are mixed. While the hardware can deliver solid performance, the fan noise is what will likely be a deal-breaker for most. Of course, putting high-performance components into a cramped space will generate a lot of heat that has to go somewhere, but other laptops can manage this much better than the Aorus. I tested Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p ultra settings but with no ray tracing or upscaling. In the “normal” performance mode, I saw minimum and average frame rates of 60 and 75, respectively. I recorded the fans at 54 decibels sitting about 2 feet from the laptop, but their high-pitched nature made it seem like they were much louder than that. The maxed out “gaming” power profile increased frame rates to a 74 minimum and 89 maximum with the fans screaming at 58 dB. Dropping to the “power saving silence” option reduces the game to 49 fps minimum and 60 average, but fan noise is just 45 dB. So while it’s absolutely playable in the power saver mode, you’re leaving quite a bit of performance on the table, which kind of defeats the purpose. In the 3DMark stress test, the laptop got a passing grade of at least 99% across all performance profiles. For everyday use, as long as you keep it in the power saver mode, the laptop generally stays quiet, though the fans will spin up from time to time. Battery life is anywhere from 4-5 hours of web surfing, office, and video streaming with the display at 30 percent brightness and the refresh rate at 60 Hz. The left USB-C port allows for charging at up to 100W so for light use or for topping off the battery so you won’t need to bring the stock 240W adapter with you if you don’t need the laptop’s full power. Overall, the Aorus 16X is a laptop I wanted to like, but the excessive fan noise and terrible software make it difficult to recommend over comparably priced offerings from other manufacturers. Unless it’s available at a deep discount, you’ll be better off looking elsewhere. submitted by saturnotaku to GamingLaptops [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 22:26 healthmedicinet Health Daily News May 18 2024
DAY: May 18 2024
- 5-18-2024 HAVE SMARTPHONES KILLED THE ART OF CONVERSATION? Once upon a time, human relationships unfolded without smartphones. The reality may be hard to recall, so profoundly have these devices transformed the way we relate to the world and others in fifteen years or so. As an anthropologist interested in modernity, I am particularly preoccupied by the impact of these devices on our conversations. In my book, “The End of the Conversation? Words in a Spectral Society” (French original: “La fin de la conversation? La parole dans une société spectrale”), I investigate the pernicious effects of this technology
- 5-18-2024 HOW TO REWARD EMPLOYEES FAIRLY AND IMPROVE TEAM DYNAMICS A recent study has shed light on how to reward employees more fairly and improve team dynamics. The study found that when less skilled employees report their performance voluntarily, they often exaggerate their achievements and ask for higher bonuses. These employees also tend to put in less effort and are less concerned about fairness when sharing their contributions voluntarily. Interestingly, the researchers discovered that requiring employees to explain their contributions leads to fairer decisions about bonus allocation and improves
- 5-19-2024 BILLIONS ARE SPENT ON EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY, BUT WE DON’T KNOW IF IT WORKS During the COVID lockdowns, schools and universities worldwide relied on education technology—edtech—to keep students learning. They used online platforms to give lessons, mark work and send feedback, used apps to teach and introduced students to programs that let them work together on projects. In the aftermath of school closures, the market for edtech has kept on growing. The value of the sector is projected to rise to US$132.4 billion globally by 2032. The problem is that we don’t know very much about how effective many edtech apps or programs
- 5-19-2024 STUDY FINDS CONSUMERS WILLING TO PAY MORE FOR NATURALLY COLORED COTTON CLOTHING Research has looked at consumer attitudes toward naturally colored cotton clothing. The study found that amid increasing concerns over the environmental impact of conventional cotton processing, consumers are willing to pay more for a greener T-shirt.
- 5-18-2024 HOW AI IS SHAPING THE FUTURE OF SALES STRATEGIES In the fast-evolving business landscape, artificial intelligence, or AI, is taking center stage in transforming sales processes, making them more efficient and responsive to the dynamic market demands. A new University of Alabama at Birmingham study titled “AI in Sales: Laying the Foundations for Future Research” highlights the pivotal role AI is playing in reshaping the sales sector.
- 5-18-2024 WHEN CONSUMERS WOULD PREFER A CHATBOT OVER A PERSON Actually, sometimes consumers don’t want to talk to a real person when they’re shopping online, a new study suggests. In fact, what they really want is a chatbot that makes it clear that it is not human at all. In a new study, researchers found that people preferred interacting with chatbots when they felt embarrassed about what they were buying online—items like antidiarrheal medicine or, for some people, skin care products. “In general, research shows people would rather interact with a human customer service agent
- 5-18-2024 NEW STUDY REVEALS THE POTENTIAL OF COACHING EMPLOYEES TO DRIVE NEW STRATEGIC IDEAS In the landscape of modern business, inclusion isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a strategic imperative. Companies like IBM, Volkswagen and Starbucks are moving to more participative strategy development approaches that reflect a growing understanding of the importance of diversity in fostering innovative and creative strategic ideas. Yet the outcomes of inclusive strategy processes often fall short of expectations. A new study in the Strategic Management Journal sheds light on why that may be. In their study of an inclusive strategy process in a large insurance company, Violetta Splitter, along with co-authors
- 5-18-2024 RESEARCHERS SHOW WAYS TO PROPEL PRODUCT SUCCESS New research explores the key strategies that firms should adopt when launching a new product. The researchers say that these strategies depend on the current market view of the product and the firm. Employing the correct one, which might sometimes be collaborating with overtly demanding reviewers or instituting rather challenging pilot tests, ensures that the product launch will go as successfully as possible.
- 5-18-2024 RESEARCHERS DEVELOP ALGORITHMS TO UNDERSTAND HOW HUMANS FORM BODY PART VOCABULARIES An example of the study’s language sample and the words for arm/hand and leg/foot in English and Wolof. Human bodies have similar designs. However, languages differ in the way they divide the body into parts and name them. For example, English speakers have two words for foot and leg, whereas other languages express the concepts foot and leg in one word.
- 5-18-2024 STUDY FINDS AVOIDING SOCIAL MEDIA BEFORE AN ELECTION HAS LITTLE TO NO EFFECT ON PEOPLE’S POLITICAL VIEWS In the weeks before and after the 2020 presidential election, researchers ran a number of tests to try to understand how much Facebook and its corporate cousin, Instagram, may be contributing to the nation’s political divide. One of those experiments—led by Matthew Gentzkow and Hunt Allcott, economics professors at Stanford University—centered on more than 35,000 Facebook and Instagram users who were paid to stay off the platforms in the run-up to Election Day. There’s a lot that researchers could glean from the social media hiatus, including whether people’s political attitudes
- 5-18-2024 USING COMPUTER MODELS TO UNDERSTAND THE DEBATE ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE Different types of noise and how they act inside or outside the social interaction process. Cognitive biases are among the most important factors that prevent people from changing their minds. Climate change deniers and climate activists often tend to accept only information that confirms their respective opinions on the matter. However, opinion dynamics are also influenced by a factor that the researchers call “ambiguity noise.” Unlike biases, ambiguity noise is variable, depends on many random factors, and leads to inconsistent judgment.
- 5-18-2024 FOR SOME INDIGENOUS SOUTHERN PLAINS TRIBES, AN ORIGINAL FLUTE SONG IS THE FIRST STEP TOWARD MARRIAGE “Warrior with flute” by Timothy Tate Nevaquaya. Used with permission. Credit: Timothy Tate Nevaquaya Every love story is unique, and in traditional Indigenous Southern Plains culture, it begins with an original ballad performed on the flute. In order to win a lover’s affection, and respect among the tribe, each pursuer must compose one good flute serenade. Paula Conlon, a former music professor at the University of Oklahoma, has researched the history and cultural significance of the Indigenous flute since the 1980s. Conlon presents her work Tuesday, May 14, at 9:45
- 5-18-2024 WANT TO BE AN INFLUENCER? OUR RESEARCH SHOWS WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW FIRST You’re hard at work, lying in a hammock, composing the perfect selfie on the beach. The turquoise sea sets off the idyllic sunset, and just visible though the fronds of a palm tree is the logo of the hotel which is paying you to promote it to your millions of followers on Instagram. Click. The perfect shot. And another typically perfect day in the life of an influencer. Or is it? Certainly a career as an influencer can seem appealing. The work generally involves promoting products or services through sponsored
- 5-18-2024 WHY STUDENTS CHEAT IN ONLINE EXAMS Media psychologists at the University of Cologne have studied how students’ individual needs, conceptions and reasons relate to cheating behavior in online exams. Online exams have become a more common type of exam at universities, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. They are advantageous because they save time and offer flexibility. However, cheating attempts present a big challenge for lecturers. This is why universities have been working on ways to thwart cheating in online exams by putting organizational and technical measures into place.
- 5-18-2024 WHY STUDENTS CHEAT IN ONLINE EXAMS Trust and distrust in social media coexisted in the study participants. Credit: Emmaline Nelsen Are anti-misinformation interventions on social media working as intended? It depends, according to a new study surveyed over 1,700 participants in the United States, revealing that anti-misinformation features increased users’ awareness of misinformation in social media; but did not make them more likely to share information on social media
- 5-18-2024 MOST CRIME HAS FALLEN BY 90% IN 30 YEARS—SO WHY DOES THE PUBLIC THINK IT’S INCREASED? Seventy-eight percent of people in England and Wales think that crime has gone up in the last few years, according to the latest survey. But the data on actual crime shows the exact opposite. As of 2024, violence, burglary and car crime have been declining for 30 years and by close to 90%, according to the Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW)—our best indicator of true crime levels. Unlike police data, the CSEW is not subject to variations in reporting and recording. The drop in violence includes domestic violence
- 5-18-2024 MOST CRIME HAS FALLEN BY 90% IN 30 YEARS—SO WHY DOES THE PUBLIC THINK IT’S INCREASED? Can we truly assess whether someone finds us attractive? Cognitive psychologist Iliana Samara discovered that men, in particular, tend to overestimate the interest of their date. She explains why this may be. “Imagine you walk into a packed bar, looking for a date. Your eyes are naturally drawn to attractive faces. If you’re a man and find someone attractive, you’re more likely to assume they’re also interested in you. “Then, when you approach them, whether you’re a man or woman
- 5-18-2024 MOST CRIME HAS FALLEN BY 90% IN 30 YEARS—SO WHY DOES THE PUBLIC THINK IT’S INCREASED? Having more education has long been linked to better individual health. But those benefits are also contagious, say the co-authors of a new working paper. “It’s not just that the individuals who have more years of education are in better health,” said David M. Cutler, Otto Eckstein Professor of Applied Economics. “It’s that even people with fewer years of education—for example, people with just a high school degree—are in better health when they live around
- 5-18-2024 MOST CRIME HAS FALLEN BY 90% IN 30 YEARS—SO WHY DOES THE PUBLIC THINK IT’S INCREASED? Our research on children in early primary years, show they are better are writing with a pen or pencil than a keyboard. Children today are growing up surrounded by technology. So it’s easy to assume they will be able to write effectively using a keyboard. But our research suggests this is not necessarily true. We need to actively teach students to be able to type as well as write using paper and pen or pencil. Our research Our research team has published two recent
- 5-18-2024 MOST CRIME HAS FALLEN BY 90% IN 30 YEARS—SO WHY DOES THE PUBLIC THINK IT’S INCREASED? The provision of therapies for children and young people (CYP) with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) can be an affectively challenging, sometimes procedurally complex, process for the various stakeholders involved. However, the efficiency and effectiveness of this process, are crucial to various outcomes, in particular
- 5-18-2024 HOW DO MINDFULNESS, COMPASSION AND NEED FULFILLMENT AFFECT SATISFACTION IN MIDLIFE MARRIED COUPLES? Many people practice mindfulness or self-compassion techniques in their everyday life as part of their normal self-care routine. Although many studies support the individual benefits of mindfulness and self-compassion, few have focused on romantic relationship outcomes. A new study published in Personal Relationships has examined how mindfulness, self- and other-compassion, and need fulfillment relate to relationship and sexual satisfaction in midlife married couples. The study involved survey results from 640 adults aged 40–59 years who were residing in Canada and were married. Mindfulness is the nonjudgmental attention and awareness to
- 5-18-2024 HOW ENTERTAINMENT BRANDS ARE ADAPTING TO GENERATION ALPHA Growing up, did you play with hyper-sexualized Barbie dolls, boys-only Thomas the Tank Engine trains, or slim, white Disney princesses? If so, you’re not alone, but this is no longer the case for Generation Alpha. Brands like Mattel, once criticized for promoting unrealistic body standards and gender stereotypes, now portray themselves as feminist and progressive. The recent Barbie movie serves as a prime example of this shift. Millennial parents are actively seeking out toys, books and movies to educate their children about life and teach them values that align
- 5-18-2024 STUDENTS WITH DYSLEXIA FACE CHALLENGES TRANSITIONING TO THE WORKPLACE, BUT WITH SUPPORT THEY CAN THRIVE Transitioning from university to the workplace is a critical period in anyone’s life, but it can be especially challenging for students with dyslexia. While academic settings often offer accommodations for people with dyslexia, professional environments often fall short on such support systems. Fortunately, there are strategic interventions that can be established in workplaces to help individuals with dyslexia not only adapt, but excel in their careers. It is estimated that up to 20% of the population has dyslexia and 80% of people with a learning disability have dyslexia
- 5-18-2024 BUSINESSES UNINTENTIONALLY DISCOURAGE DIVERSE IDEAS, FINDS STUDY Businesses influence the ideas they receive from external contributors by unintentionally signaling which ideas they like, a research analyzed 1.44 million ideas to understand how organizations unknowingly shape the ideas they receive. Data came from organizations that asked visitors how they could improve their websites before choosing which ideas to use. Chosen ideas were communicated for all to see.
- 5-18-2024 WHAT’S IN A NAME? A LINGUISTICS EXPERT EXPLAINS WHY SOME BABY NAMES DOMINATE THE CHARTS YEAR AFTER YEAR What do names like Noah, James, Mateo, Mia, Evelyn and Luna all have in common? They’re not only some of the top baby names in the United States, but they also seem to flow off the tongue. And that’s exactly why parents love them. On May 10, the Social Security Administration released a list of the top baby names in the United States in 2023. Liam and Olivia maintained the number one spot in their respective categories for the fifth consecutive year while Noah and Emma also retained second place.
- 5-18-2024 ACCESS TO GARDENS AND CITIZEN SCIENCE HELPS ENCOURAGE CONSERVATION AMONG CHILDREN, STUDY SHOWS Access to gardens and citizen science projects at school can help promote pro-conservation behavior among pupils, a new study shows. Offering children the chance to take part in authentic scientific ecological work and gardening encourages an interest in plants. This can change behavior—to spend more time gardening or to pursue a botanical career—and fuels a positive attitude towards safeguarding the environment, experts found
- 5-18-2024 WHAT PROFESSIONALS EXPECT FROM FUTURE EMPLOYERS Employers who want to attract new talent should recognize diversity and enable inclusion. This is confirmed by a representative study by IU International University of Applied Sciences (IU), which surveyed more than 1,200 trainees and students across Germany. The results clearly show that 75.1% of prospective employees consider it very or somewhat important that companies implement measures to promote diversity and inclusion. This suggests that companies that communicate these measures openly and transparently
- 5-18-2024 RESEARCH LINKS VOTER BEHAVIOR IN PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS TO HOUSING MARKET PERFORMANCE If the 21st century has proven anything to the United States electorate, it is that presidential elections are notoriously unpredictable affairs. The seeming randomness by which the country’s electorate chooses its next president has only emboldened polling outlets, talking heads, and amateur psephologists to scrutinize every conceivable variable to give their respective electoral forecasting models a much-needed edge. However, Sherwood Clements, collegiate assistant professor of real estate in the Pamplin College of Business, had an electoral theory that, to the best of his knowledge, had never been explored with regards
- 5-18-2024 RESEARCH LINKS VOTER BEHAVIOR IN PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS TO HOUSING MARKET PERFORMANCE If the 21st century has proven anything to the United States electorate, it is that presidential elections are notoriously unpredictable affairs. The seeming randomness by which the country’s electorate chooses its next president has only emboldened polling outlets, talking heads, and amateur psephologists to scrutinize every conceivable variable to give their respective electoral forecasting models a much-needed edge. However, Sherwood Clements, collegiate assistant professor of real estate in the Pamplin College of Business, had an electoral theory that, to the best of his knowledge, had never been explored with regards
- 5-18-2024 MECHANISTIC MODEL SHOWS HOW MUCH GOSSIP IS NEEDED TO FOSTER SOCIAL COOPERATION Gossip often has a negative connotation, but imagine you are part of a group deciding on a job candidate to hire or a local political candidate to back. Candidates who get a good reputation by helping others may be more likely to receive help in the form of a job offer or endorsement, a feedback loop known as indirect reciprocity. Gossip can facilitate cooperation. Previous research has shown that people tend to cooperate more when they think their peers are gossiping about their behavior, gossip
- 5-18-2024 SINGING RESEARCHERS FIND CROSS-CULTURAL PATTERNS IN MUSIC AND LANGUAGE Are acoustic features of music and spoken language shared across cultures? Researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics in Nijmegen have contributed to a global study of music and speech, published in Science Advances. An international team of researchers recorded themselves performing traditional music and speaking in their native language. In all 50+ languages
- 5-18-2024 NEW RESEARCH REVEALS JUST HOW FEW LGBTQI+ PEOPLE PLAY SPORTS The topic of homophobia in sport has recently made headlines in Australia, with a series of homophobic incidents involving men’s AFL players. These homophobic incidents are usually well-reported in news media, but research has rarely explored the impact on participation for LGBTQI+ people. Fresh research into the problem Our new research is one of the first pieces of academic research in Australia to document how many LGBTQI+ people play and engage with sport. We also explored current levels of discrimination across sport in Australia, and the barriers and enablers
- 5-18-2024 SWIPE RIGHT OR LEFT? HOW DATING APPS ARE IMPACTING MODERN MASCULINITY What it means to be a man is changing. Critical men or masculinity studies is an emerging robust research field that explores how men and masculinity are being transformed by shifting socio-economic, sexual and political conditions in our post-industrial world. Fascinating new male-identifying sub-cultures and communities have emerged, like mushroomcore and dandies. Yet heteronormative masculinity is typically framed as threatening, toxic or maladaptive, as in the case of fragile masculinity. In my years of swiping on dating apps, I encountered different kinds of masculinities, as well as some very offensive
- 5-18-2024 RESEARCHERS SAY AUTOMATED NEWS VIDEO PRODUCTION IS BETTER WITH A HUMAN TOUCH AI-generated videos for short messages are only as well received as manually created ones if they are edited by humans. News organizations—including Bloomberg, Reuters, and The Economist—have been using AI powered video services to meet growing audience demand for audio-visual material. A study recently published in the journal Journalism now shows that the automated production of news videos is better with human supervision. Technology providers like Wochit and Moovly are allowing publishers to mass produce videos at scale. But what do audiences think of the results? Researchers led by LMU
- 5-18-2024 HOW ‘ETHICAL INFLUENCERS’ ENGAGE THEIR AUDIENCES ABOUT SAVING THE PLANET Have a quick think back to the last time you scrolled through social media. Maybe it was this morning, last night or a few minutes ago. What do you recall? One thing you’re bound to remember is the continuous stream of influencers showing off their latest content. These could be videos of influencers discussing the latest skin-care products, the trendiest places to eat, their latest shopping haul or the PR packages they received from various brands. Much of social media influencing is about getting consumers to buy more products.
- 5-18-2024 ALLYSHIP IS ESSENTIAL TO NEW MOTHERS RETURNING TO WORK, SAYS STUDY Returning to work after parental leave can be one of the most challenging experiences for any parents, especially mothers, to navigate. Fortunately, there are simple, kind and thoughtful ways in which organizational members—regardless of formal status, parental identity or gender identity—can help mothers feel supported as they return to work, which can also benefit job satisfaction and maternal well-being.
- 5-18-2024 STUDY FINDS SAYING ‘PLEASE’ MAY NOT BE SO POLITE IN EVERYDAY REQUESTS By kindergarten age, most children have been taught that “please” is a magic word. “Please” is an expression of politeness that shows courtesy and respect, turning a potential demand into a request that will—poof!—magically be granted. But a new study on the ways people make requests of one another suggests that “please” might not be an all-purpose marker of politeness, but rather a more focused, strategic tool to manage frictions or obstacles among family members, friends and even coworkers.
- 5-18-2024 MILITARY RANK AFFECTS MEDICAL CARE, OFFERING SOCIETAL INSIGHTS: STUDY Stock project from Pexels Human relationships are inherently shaped by power dynamics, yet quantifying their impact has remained a scientific challenge. Now, a large new study published Thursday in the journal Science reveals that military doctors give more attention to higher-ranked patients, providing concrete evidence about the privileges that come with elevated status, frequently at the expense of the less powerful. “One of the things we are trying to show is that this is not a military-specific analysis,”
- 5-18-2024 RESEARCHERS DISCUSS CURRENT STATE OF HOMOPHOBIA, TRANSPHOBIA AND BIPHOBIA Gender-neutral bathrooms, conversion therapy and Quebec’s advisory committee on gender identity have been in the news lately. These are polarizing, hot-button issues. While there have been legislative and social advances for LGBTQ+ rights, ignorance and discrimination persist and continue to negatively affect the lives of many. On May 17, the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, UdeMNouvelles asked two Université de Montréal professors and researchers who are experts in the field to share their views.
- 5-18-2024 PICKLEBALL COURTS IN A LEGAL PICKLE OVER THE ASSOCIATED NOISE Experts recommend HOAs and communities consider the “popping” noise associated with pickleball when deciding to build courts near homes. Credit: AIP Pickleball Legal Consultant is a job title that likely did not exist a decade ago, but as pickleball courts infiltrate neighborhoods to satiate an appetite for a sport whose namesake is a snack, communities take issue with the resulting influx of noise. Now homeowners’ associations and city councils face litigation by those whose lives are disrupted by pickleball’s din. Charles Leahy, an attorney, retired mechanical engineer, and former HOA
- 5-18-2024 TECHNOLOGY IS CHANGING HOW COMPANIES DO BUSINESS In the fast-paced world of modern business, technology plays a crucial role in shaping how companies operate. One area where this impact is particularly significant is in the organization of production chains—specifically the way goods are made and distributed. A new study from the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business advances understanding of the U.S. production chain evolution amidst technological progress in information technology (IT), shedding light on the complex connections between business IT investments and organizational design. Advances in IT have sparked significant changes in how companies design
- 5-18-2024 HOW DOES THE US KNOW THAT FORCED LABOR IS HAPPENING IN CHINA? A SUPPLY CHAIN EXPERT WEIGHS IN The Biden administration has added 26 more companies to the list of Chinese textile traders and manufacturers whose goods are blocked from entering the United States because of their alleged ties to forced labor. The banned imports, known as the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act Entity List, names businesses that are said to be involved in exploiting
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2024.05.19 22:19 Conscious-Dingo4463 1977. Pontiac Ventura
2024.05.19 22:15 BuyOptimal9187 New to CF manufacturing
Im currently a second year Mechanical Engineering student with no internship offer. I've recently been looking into CF composites for cars and I would be interested to get some experience on the entire manufacturing process of it this summer. Im in the LA area and wondering if anyone knows of any shops that may be willing to take an apprentice. Or if you guys have any tips on how I could get started on my own, I would greatly appreciate it. TIA.
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2024.05.19 22:14 rubydaberry_ Thoughts on dual exhaust on a 328?
| My car is a 328i and i’ve been recently thinking about looking into a dual exhaust tip conversion, but i’m not sure how i feel about that, not trying to make people think i’m a 335, but the dual exhaust objectively looks way better, especially with the msport rear bumper . What are your guys thoughts on this mod? submitted by rubydaberry_ to E90 [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 22:06 DutyTop8086 Starting an Amazon FBA Business: Essential Tips and Product Research Strategies
Are you planning to sell on Amazon FBA but unsure what to sell? The best products to sell are those that already have a demand. Whether you're selling your own products or reselling someone else's, I'll guide you on how to find good products to sell for yourself.
First, let me be blunt: this might not work for everyone. Everyone's success is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all plan. What works for one person might not work for another, so keep that in mind.
Don't choose a product just because you can source it cheaply, because you like it, or because you think it will sell well. The first product I tried to sell on Amazon was a complete failure because I didn't do any market research. I just saw one other product that seemed to be selling well and tried to sell the same thing. I thought, "If they are selling well, I can throw up my product, and it should sell well too, right?" Nope. I was wrong. Looking back, it's funny now, but at the time it wasn’t.
They had hundreds of reviews, a much better listing, and were already ranked. I had no idea how to set up my listing back then. I had three poor-quality iPhone pictures, horrible copywriting, and worst of all, I had no idea how to launch or rank my product. I just knew someone else was selling well.
Enough about my failed product. I say this to highlight how important it is to pick the right product, especially when you're first starting. So in general, you should approach your product research like this:
Learn From My Mistakes
Don’t choose a product just because you can source it cheaply, because you like it, or because you think it will sell well. The first product I tried to sell on Amazon was a complete failure because I didn't do any market research. I saw one product that seemed to be selling well and tried to sell the same thing. I thought, “If they are selling well, I can throw up my product and it should sell well too, right?” Nope. I was wrong.
They had hundreds of reviews, a much better listing, and were already ranked. I had no idea how to set up my listing back then. I had three poor-quality iPhone pictures, horrible copywriting, and worst of all, I had no idea how to launch or rank my product. I just knew someone else was selling well.
Enough about my failed product. I say this to highlight how important it is to pick the right product, especially when you're first starting. So here’s how you should approach your product research:
Find the Market
For your first product, look for ones that are easier to ship and manufacture so you can launch quicker. The main factors to consider are:
Small and lightweight
Non-seasonal
Non-fragile / non-electronic
Non-brand dominated
Price between $12 and $55
Already selling well (over 500 units per month)
Next, you want to find other potential, successful products that will lead you to the overall market. Here are two effective product research methods:
Free Method
Check out the New Release section of any sub-category. The idea is to find products that have just recently launched and are already selling well. Some good categories to start in are Home & Kitchen, Office Products, and Pet Supplies. Go into their sub-categories to find oddball products that are doing well. For example, Home & Kitchen > Kitchen & Dining > Tabletop > Tabletop Accessories > Kitchen & Table Linens > Tablecloths. You can use the free AMZ Scout Chrome extension to estimate how many units are being sold each month.
Paid Method
Use the Jungle Scout Web App ($40 a month). The product database lets you search through Amazon with the criteria we went over and only pulls back products that fit.
Analyze Market Trends
Research the current trends and popular products in your target market. Look for gaps and opportunities where there is a demand for new products. It's important to start doing this for just one market, ideally your country’s market.
Use Product/Keyword Research Tools
Use these tools to identify potential product ideas. They can help you identify popular search terms and phrases related to your target market. Use Amazon’s search engine autocomplete, which will show you the daily trends for that Marketplace. Start typing (for example, "car Christmas decoration") and get ideas.
Think Outside the Box
Don’t just rely on scraping Alibaba for the next big product. Millions of people are doing the same. Even Alibaba’s manufacturers are directly selling those products on Amazon. Think outside the box: attend trade shows and local markets related to your target market. This can be a great way to learn about new products and trends and to connect with potential suppliers and manufacturers. Plus, it’s not as easy for your competitors to attend a trade show.
Network and Connect with Other Sellers
This is an absolute must and a game-changer. Join Facebook groups, Discord servers, and follow relevant Twitter accounts. Meeting face-to-face and networking with other sellers on Amazon will give you new ideas, and you'll share the ups and downs of selling on Amazon. Don’t expect other sellers to show you their secret formula. They won’t give you an idea for their next great product, but exchanging ideas with someone in your same position is really helpful.
Avoid Amazon Gurus' Courses
Nobody who is going to make you a millionaire or make you drop your 9-to-5 life will give you the keys to it for $3,000 or $30,000.
Tools for Amazon Product Research
There are several tools that can help with the research process. Some popular options include:
Jungle Scout: A product research tool that helps you identify potential products to sell on Amazon based on data and analytics. The product database includes over 500 million products.
Helium 10: A suite of tools that includes a keyword research tool, product tracker, and other features that can help you research and find profitable products to sell on Amazon. The product database includes over 400 million products.
Viral Launch: A product research and launch platform that offers tools and services to help you find and launch successful products on Amazon. The product database includes over 250 million products.
AMZ Scout: A product research and tracking tool that provides data and insights to help you find the best products to sell on Amazon. The product database includes over 20 million products.
Now that you generally know how to find good product ideas, don't get overwhelmed with the entire process of selling on Amazon. No need to stress about ranking, launching, PPC, sourcing, or anything other than finding the right product to sell. Once you have a good product to sell, figuring out all that stuff becomes so much easier since you know specifically what to sell. You'll start to see how things work and what products sell well once you've been doing product research for a little bit.
Remember, success on Amazon varies for everyone, and there's no guarantee this will work for you. However, by following these guidelines, you'll have a much better chance of finding a product that can succeed in the marketplace.
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2024.05.19 21:53 DutyTop8086 Starting an Amazon FBA Business: Essential Tips and Product Research Strategies
Are you planning to sell on Amazon FBA but unsure what to sell? The best products to sell are those that already have a demand. Whether you're selling your own products or reselling someone else's, I'll guide you on how to find good products to sell for yourself.
First, let me be blunt: this might not work for everyone. Everyone's success is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all plan. What works for one person might not work for another, so keep that in mind.
Don't choose a product just because you can source it cheaply, because you like it, or because you think it will sell well. The first product I tried to sell on Amazon was a complete failure because I didn't do any market research. I just saw one other product that seemed to be selling well and tried to sell the same thing. I thought, "If they are selling well, I can throw up my product, and it should sell well too, right?" Nope. I was wrong. Looking back, it's funny now, but at the time it wasn’t.
They had hundreds of reviews, a much better listing, and were already ranked. I had no idea how to set up my listing back then. I had three poor-quality iPhone pictures, horrible copywriting, and worst of all, I had no idea how to launch or rank my product. I just knew someone else was selling well.
Enough about my failed product. I say this to highlight how important it is to pick the right product, especially when you're first starting. So in general, you should approach your product research like this:
Learn From My Mistakes
Don’t choose a product just because you can source it cheaply, because you like it, or because you think it will sell well. The first product I tried to sell on Amazon was a complete failure because I didn't do any market research. I saw one product that seemed to be selling well and tried to sell the same thing. I thought, “If they are selling well, I can throw up my product and it should sell well too, right?” Nope. I was wrong.
They had hundreds of reviews, a much better listing, and were already ranked. I had no idea how to set up my listing back then. I had three poor-quality iPhone pictures, horrible copywriting, and worst of all, I had no idea how to launch or rank my product. I just knew someone else was selling well.
Enough about my failed product. I say this to highlight how important it is to pick the right product, especially when you're first starting. So here’s how you should approach your product research:
Find the Market
For your first product, look for ones that are easier to ship and manufacture so you can launch quicker. The main factors to consider are:
Small and lightweight
Non-seasonal
Non-fragile / non-electronic
Non-brand dominated
Price between $12 and $55
Already selling well (over 500 units per month)
Next, you want to find other potential, successful products that will lead you to the overall market. Here are two effective product research methods:
Free Method
Check out the New Release section of any sub-category. The idea is to find products that have just recently launched and are already selling well. Some good categories to start in are Home & Kitchen, Office Products, and Pet Supplies. Go into their sub-categories to find oddball products that are doing well. For example, Home & Kitchen > Kitchen & Dining > Tabletop > Tabletop Accessories > Kitchen & Table Linens > Tablecloths. You can use the free AMZ Scout Chrome extension to estimate how many units are being sold each month.
Paid Method
Use the Jungle Scout Web App ($40 a month). The product database lets you search through Amazon with the criteria we went over and only pulls back products that fit.
Analyze Market Trends
Research the current trends and popular products in your target market. Look for gaps and opportunities where there is a demand for new products. It's important to start doing this for just one market, ideally your country’s market.
Use Product/Keyword Research Tools
Use these tools to identify potential product ideas. They can help you identify popular search terms and phrases related to your target market. Use Amazon’s search engine autocomplete, which will show you the daily trends for that Marketplace. Start typing (for example, "car Christmas decoration") and get ideas.
Think Outside the Box
Don’t just rely on scraping Alibaba for the next big product. Millions of people are doing the same. Even Alibaba’s manufacturers are directly selling those products on Amazon. Think outside the box: attend trade shows and local markets related to your target market. This can be a great way to learn about new products and trends and to connect with potential suppliers and manufacturers. Plus, it’s not as easy for your competitors to attend a trade show.
Network and Connect with Other Sellers
This is an absolute must and a game-changer. Join Facebook groups, Discord servers, and follow relevant Twitter accounts. Meeting face-to-face and networking with other sellers on Amazon will give you new ideas, and you'll share the ups and downs of selling on Amazon. Don’t expect other sellers to show you their secret formula. They won’t give you an idea for their next great product, but exchanging ideas with someone in your same position is really helpful.
Avoid Amazon Gurus' Courses
Nobody who is going to make you a millionaire or make you drop your 9-to-5 life will give you the keys to it for $3,000 or $30,000.
Tools for Amazon Product Research
There are several tools that can help with the research process. Some popular options include:
Jungle Scout: A product research tool that helps you identify potential products to sell on Amazon based on data and analytics. The product database includes over 500 million products.
Helium 10: A suite of tools that includes a keyword research tool, product tracker, and other features that can help you research and find profitable products to sell on Amazon. The product database includes over 400 million products.
Viral Launch: A product research and launch platform that offers tools and services to help you find and launch successful products on Amazon. The product database includes over 250 million products.
AMZ Scout: A product research and tracking tool that provides data and insights to help you find the best products to sell on Amazon. The product database includes over 20 million products.
Now that you generally know how to find good product ideas, don't get overwhelmed with the entire process of selling on Amazon. No need to stress about ranking, launching, PPC, sourcing, or anything other than finding the right product to sell. Once you have a good product to sell, figuring out all that stuff becomes so much easier since you know specifically what to sell. You'll start to see how things work and what products sell well once you've been doing product research for a little bit.
Remember, success on Amazon varies for everyone, and there's no guarantee this will work for you. However, by following these guidelines, you'll have a much better chance of finding a product that can succeed in the marketplace.
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2024.05.19 21:52 DutyTop8086 Starting an Amazon FBA Business: Essential Tips and Product Research Strategies
Are you planning to sell on Amazon FBA but unsure what to sell? The best products to sell are those that already have a demand. Whether you're selling your own products or reselling someone else's, I'll guide you on how to find good products to sell for yourself.
First, let me be blunt: this might not work for everyone. Everyone's success is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all plan. What works for one person might not work for another, so keep that in mind.
Don't choose a product just because you can source it cheaply, because you like it, or because you think it will sell well. The first product I tried to sell on Amazon was a complete failure because I didn't do any market research. I just saw one other product that seemed to be selling well and tried to sell the same thing. I thought, "If they are selling well, I can throw up my product, and it should sell well too, right?" Nope. I was wrong. Looking back, it's funny now, but at the time it wasn’t.
They had hundreds of reviews, a much better listing, and were already ranked. I had no idea how to set up my listing back then. I had three poor-quality iPhone pictures, horrible copywriting, and worst of all, I had no idea how to launch or rank my product. I just knew someone else was selling well.
Enough about my failed product. I say this to highlight how important it is to pick the right product, especially when you're first starting. So in general, you should approach your product research like this:
Learn From My Mistakes
Don’t choose a product just because you can source it cheaply, because you like it, or because you think it will sell well. The first product I tried to sell on Amazon was a complete failure because I didn't do any market research. I saw one product that seemed to be selling well and tried to sell the same thing. I thought, “If they are selling well, I can throw up my product and it should sell well too, right?” Nope. I was wrong.
They had hundreds of reviews, a much better listing, and were already ranked. I had no idea how to set up my listing back then. I had three poor-quality iPhone pictures, horrible copywriting, and worst of all, I had no idea how to launch or rank my product. I just knew someone else was selling well.
Enough about my failed product. I say this to highlight how important it is to pick the right product, especially when you're first starting. So here’s how you should approach your product research:
Find the Market
For your first product, look for ones that are easier to ship and manufacture so you can launch quicker. The main factors to consider are:
- Small and lightweight
- Non-seasonal
- Non-fragile / non-electronic
- Non-brand dominated
- Price between $12 and $55
- Already selling well (over 500 units per month)
Next, you want to find other potential, successful products that will lead you to the overall market. Here are two effective product research methods:
Free Method
Check out the New Release section of any sub-category. The idea is to find products that have just recently launched and are already selling well. Some good categories to start in are Home & Kitchen, Office Products, and Pet Supplies. Go into their sub-categories to find oddball products that are doing well. For example, Home & Kitchen > Kitchen & Dining > Tabletop > Tabletop Accessories > Kitchen & Table Linens > Tablecloths. You can use the free AMZ Scout Chrome extension to estimate how many units are being sold each month.
Paid Method
Use the Jungle Scout Web App ($40 a month). The product database lets you search through Amazon with the criteria we went over and only pulls back products that fit.
Analyze Market Trends
Research the current trends and popular products in your target market. Look for gaps and opportunities where there is a demand for new products. It's important to start doing this for just one market, ideally your country’s market.
Use Product/Keyword Research Tools
Use these tools to identify potential product ideas. They can help you identify popular search terms and phrases related to your target market. Use Amazon’s search engine autocomplete, which will show you the daily trends for that Marketplace. Start typing (for example, "car Christmas decoration") and get ideas.
Think Outside the Box
Don’t just rely on scraping Alibaba for the next big product. Millions of people are doing the same. Even Alibaba’s manufacturers are directly selling those products on Amazon. Think outside the box: attend trade shows and local markets related to your target market. This can be a great way to learn about new products and trends and to connect with potential suppliers and manufacturers. Plus, it’s not as easy for your competitors to attend a trade show.
Network and Connect with Other Sellers
This is an absolute must and a game-changer. Join Facebook groups, Discord servers, and follow relevant Twitter accounts. Meeting face-to-face and networking with other sellers on Amazon will give you new ideas, and you'll share the ups and downs of selling on Amazon. Don’t expect other sellers to show you their secret formula. They won’t give you an idea for their next great product, but exchanging ideas with someone in your same position is really helpful.
Avoid Amazon Gurus' Courses
Nobody who is going to make you a millionaire or make you drop your 9-to-5 life will give you the keys to it for $3,000 or $30,000.
Tools for Amazon Product Research
There are several tools that can help with the research process. Some popular options include:
- Jungle Scout: A product research tool that helps you identify potential products to sell on Amazon based on data and analytics. The product database includes over 500 million products.
- Helium 10: A suite of tools that includes a keyword research tool, product tracker, and other features that can help you research and find profitable products to sell on Amazon. The product database includes over 400 million products.
- Viral Launch: A product research and launch platform that offers tools and services to help you find and launch successful products on Amazon. The product database includes over 250 million products.
- AMZ Scout: A product research and tracking tool that provides data and insights to help you find the best products to sell on Amazon. The product database includes over 20 million products.
Now that you generally know how to find good product ideas, don't get overwhelmed with the entire process of selling on Amazon. No need to stress about ranking, launching, PPC, sourcing, or anything other than finding the right product to sell. Once you have a good product to sell, figuring out all that stuff becomes so much easier since you know specifically what to sell. You'll start to see how things work and what products sell well once you've been doing product research for a little bit.
Remember, success on Amazon varies for everyone, and there's no guarantee this will work for you. However, by following these guidelines, you'll have a much better chance of finding a product that can succeed in the marketplace.
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DutyTop8086 to
AmazonFBA [link] [comments]
2024.05.19 21:45 Strong_Hat7508 Saw my ex-friend w/ BPD after 1.5 years. So interesting...
You can see my post history for more info about the story of my friend/female coworker who split on me, reported me to HR, then refused to work with me (how she didn't get in trouble is beyond me). We work remotely so I haven't seen her in 1.5 years.
Over a year ago she got a promotion when she was clearly not ready for it. She's causing chaos, people are finding new roles without thanking her and jumping ship, etc. Finally, so many people have told me "she clearly has borderline personality disorder" that I can't believe I missed it. I have healed to a point that I'm not bothered by things anymore, thankfully. But I was nervous to think about crossing paths again.
A few weeks ago I attended a work conference. My attendance was last minute and she did not expect me to be there. We were taking seats for the first meeting and she literally jumped when she saw me then beelined for a different area of the room. I almost didn't recognize her--hair bleached blonde and gained weight. Mirroring her most recent boss to a degree.
After the meeting, we had a dinner and drinks/networking deal. About 100 people were there and she was bouncing around like crazy from person to person (not sure if this was due to my presence, or else). It looked exhausting. I also didn't recognize her personality from afar--drinking pretty quickly/heavily, acting like a super cool person, etc. different from what I remember (although I think she has possibly slipped into drinking, or more open about it). Again, any time she would get close to me, she beelined a different direction. Amusing. Many times though I had a sense that someone was staring at me--and when I looked up, it was her. I decided to keep an eye out a bit closer, only to respect her actions and make sure I was able to avoid her.
However, as she drank more that evening I noticed a change. Once, she went over to a mutual from a prior role that neither of us had cared for and we, in the past, joked was my "arch nemesis". At one point, he was by himself and she went over to talk to him--all while looking directly at me from across room the whole time. She was sending me a message. Later, I was off to the side next to a group of people, and she looked right at me, then waltzed over to the other side of the group, sending another message. (There is one person that knows we were close and aren't anymore, so knows there was some major falling out--but doesn't know the details. She picked up on what happened with that last move right away).
The next day our paths crossed ways very few times--one exception coming to mind is that I was walking down a long hall into an open area where people were. I was scanning the crowd and happened to see her. She saw me, dropped her head and looked away and immediately left the room. Later that evening at an off-site event, she continued to avoid. Yet I would walk into a room and she would immediately be making eye contact with me before I realized who I was looking at. A few more times I had that "sense" of someone looking at me--and I would look over and she would immediately drop her head and furiously text on her phone. Finally, due to a crowded space, I ended up next to someone who was next to her. I saw her slowly take two steps back and then shuffle away.
The final day, I only saw her when people were departing for the airport. She looked at me again and steered clear. I coincidentally passed her on the way to my car and she completely ignored me.
That was the last time I saw her. No words were exchanged. And yet, the non-verbal communication spoke volumes.
I am basically healed and my wife and I have developed some compassion for her. I thought about saying hello, etc. or otherwise just being a polite human being, mature, etc. But then I had to continue to remind myself that she has BPD, and would not receive it like someone who did not have it. I essentially continued to grey rock/stay NC. After the interactions, I realized it was absolutely the right call to continue to do so. Who knows what would have happened if I had tried to be cordial. She probably would have accused me of harassing her or something at this work event. My simple presence clearly triggered a lot of things within her.
I do wonder what she was thinking and feeling. Was she feeling shame/regret, then it turned into anger and impulsivity by trying to demonstrate that she was "doing ok"? Did she still see me as some terrible person as part of splitting? Did I bring back bad memories of a major professional/personal mistake in her life? Because I didn't try to approach or validate her, I may have completely restarted a cycle of a sense of abandonment/rejection. I hope that's not the case because I don't desire to hurt her, but I did start wondering about that.
Regardless, it was really an interesting experience and staying no contact in the situation was the right move, for sure.
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2024.05.19 21:41 Mani_07_ Possible Modifications..
| Hello all I'm from Hyderabad..This is the first and only pic of my bike which was taken a year ago and it still looks the same though.. Its been a year and driven only 6000kms and done with 3 services that comes from showroom..and recently I took a drive to test the milage and few things.it's giving milage of 37 kmpl and a top speed of 131kmph..cut to the chase I have few questions for making any modifications.. 1.Will i have to face any problem from rto if I change the colour to complete black, right from the rims to handle..as coming these days i might roam from state to state and in rc it is written as mettalic orange..and should I go for wrap or paint spray the sides..suggest a place as well if you are from hyderabad. 2.is ppf good and worth the price..As some may change the color to yellow and some may pop air bubbles and as they have types in them.dont know which is good.. 3.Should I have a exhaust or not..personally I like to have decent sound not too loud and not too low.. And what exhaust do you prefer and does having an exhaust really drops the mileage..? If yes how much..? 4.And what all modifications could I make and where can i get the parts.. 5.most importantly what all cautions and actions do i need to take for maintaining it well..? And from now on where should I service it..in a local shop or at the showroom only.? 6.what are those little changes that needs to changed or done..? Like making break pipes to steel etc. Hope I can get genuine Help... Any tips,suggestions Or tricks are considered.. Thank You.. submitted by Mani_07_ to indianbikes [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 21:36 Fantastic_Stuff_7917 Advice on mother-in-law conflict
My husband, my teenage son and I moved to my husband‘s hometown fairly recently. Prior to this we would visit once a year for 10 days by the end of our trip I was exhausted from the dynamic in my in-laws household. Now that we live here and has gotten even worse. Our electricity went out for an entire week during the spring, and my husband was off on a trip. My teenage son and I had to stay at my in law house. She treated me like I was five years old, telling me what I needed to do, exactly how I needed to go about doing it, and what I wasn’t doing right. she is a clean freak and everything has to be done just right. every dish put away on the spot, every towel folded just right ect… you get the picture. she even told me that if I lost weight, I would get rid of most of my health problems. I had just had back surgery and I total knee replacement six months prior and waiting on another new replacement. I may have been 30 to 40 pounds overweight at the time. It’s hard to lose weight when you’re in so much pain! I also was diagnosed with an immune disorder about three years ago . When we first moved, they wanted us to meet them out for dinner 3 to 4 times a week at eighty to $100 each time. I told my husband that we had to put the brakes on going out to dinner so much unfortunately that was the only thing that brought us together. They hardly ever come over to our place and when they do they want to leave within half an hour unless it’s for a holiday dinner. They don’t have us to their house very much unless it’s to watch hockey, which I don’t like. My husband and son usually go. She waited till we were alone in the kitchen a few months ago and scolded me for not working full-time while I was raising my son. I couldn’t take it any longer, and I firmly told her that I wanted to be there for my son when he was growing up. He wouldn’t be the kid he is if I wasn’t there for him. I got married late in life and have my son when I was 40. after college I worked a corporate career all the way up until I had my son. Almost 2O years! I Had a 401(k) saved up. 2008 my husband poorly managed our finances and we lost our house and our cars and our credit and all of MY money and then had his parents help us out. It was a horrible time. My husband became very verbally abusive with me and started acting and treating me just like his mom. When his mom started in on me, I realized that my husband learned all of his mean tactics from her!!!!! the lightbulb went off, the mean and cruel and constant judging I endured from my husband throughout our marriage, was exactly how his mother was to him. This made me resent her that much more. She told me that SHE herself worked, why couldn’t I? she didn’t go to college, she didn’t work while the kids were small. after the kids were grown she worked as a receptionist at an old folks home for a couple of years. she’s never had to earn her own money and they live in a beautiful home because of my father-in-law and she spends money like it’s going out of style. when I’m around her, I feel like I’m being judged sometime. She’ll even look me up and down, and I can feel her judging eyes thinking I look fat or my outfit is not what she would wear. She’s very quick to tell me what I need to do. I’ve lost a lot of weight since my surgeries and got a real estate license. We are selling our home and I am doing the majority of the work. She told me a couple of days ago that it’s very important that the house is spotless, clean and that make sure the beds are made and the dishes and the sink are put away. Really really!!!
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family [link] [comments]
2024.05.19 21:25 Frosty_Bookkeeper682 Noise after shorty headers
| Good afternoon, Was wondering if my fellow Durango owners could help me. I recently installed some AFE shorty headers on my 22 Durango Rt. I still have the stock CATS (mid pipes) with a full Borla exhaust system. When I did the headers I put all new hardware & remflex gaskets. Starting recently I started getting a weird chirping noise on acceleration and deceleration, the noise happens at about 1500-2500 rpms but varies sometimes. The driver side cat is really close to the heat shield under the cars firewall. I have banged on it to see if I can get it to repeat the noise but absolutely nothing….. I have checked the system for leaks and nothing. I also tried moving the headers to see if there is any play in them that would cause and exhaust leak and nothing. If anyone has had any experience in this please help me out lol. The noise is driving me crazy I’ll be posting a video. submitted by Frosty_Bookkeeper682 to DodgeDurango [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 21:18 Ready-Candidate-6371 Short Story Critiques wanted
I am basically brand new to creative writing, having not written anything since I was a teenager. I've recently felt a spark to start writing again. I'm hoping for some honest critiques so I can know what I have to improve on. What do you think? Are you interested to read the rest or is it awful? Thank you!!
This is an excerpt from a short story. For some context, the MC is living in modern times, gets lost while driving home, her car dies and she ends up walking to look for help. She winds up here...
"Words escape me as I take in the woman in front of me. She is dressed in a floor length navy blue gown reminiscent of sometime in the 17th century. My eyes shift behind her… a fire is lit in a hearth. Next to a window on the far side are a table with two chairs. And seated in one of them is a man, who by this point is beginning to stand up and make his way to the door as well. The way their faces looked when they saw at me was similar to how I imagine my own must have been. Pure, undiluted confusion. I shake my head and tried to find words. “Who are you?” Demanded the man as he approached. “I… I’m lost.. I.. my car broke down a couple of miles down the road.. I just need a phone so I can call for help..I..” I spluttered. “Are you okay, miss?” The woman asked with concern in her face. “I’m not sure, to be honest.” Their gazes shift from confusion to concern to suspicion as they take in the sight of me. While they are dressed for a renaissance faire, I’m sporting a thigh length floral print dress with a denim jacket. “Who are you?” The man demands again. “My name is Millie… I work just down the road at the James River Elementary School… I’m just trying to get home. Do you have a phone I could use, please? I need to call for help.” “Phone?" He glances at his wife, motioning for her to move away from the doorway, "Miss, I haven’t a clue what you speak of…” Who on earth doesn’t know what a phone is? I can’t be so far out of town that I’m talking to people who are that out of touch. I begin to explain but think better of it. “Miss, please come with me..” He dons a long brown jacket over his off-white cotton shirt and steps out the door past me, motioning for me to follow. Something about following a strange man, wearing historical clothing, down a dark path through the woods feels very wrong at this moment, but I don’t see a way out of it. So I follow for several quiet minutes until we come upon another building, slightly larger than the house we just came from. This one also has a thatched roof, with smoke billowing out of a chimney. The man opens the door and holds it for me, motioning me forward. I go. “Good evening, constable…” He says to a man seated at a wooden table. He has a piece of old looking paper and a feather quill in front of him, along with an ancient looking mug. This is all beginning to feel like a fever dream. I’m almost too confused to feel the fear that continues to build inside me. “Who is this here, Thomas?” He says to the man, eyeing me with suspicion. “She just showed up at our doorstep. She’s been mutterin’ on about needin’ help… talkin’ all kinds of nonsense about something called a…” He turns to me and says “What did you say, miss…?” “My car broke down a few miles down the road… I walked here, I can’t find my phone, I just need some help getting home…” I say with urgency. “All I need is to make a phone call and I’ll be out of your way…” “That was it.. phone? See, speakin’ nonsense, sir. I figured it best to bring her here.” The man, Thomas, says. “I see.. I see.” The constable rubs his temples as if exasperated and stands up, the chair scraping against the wooden floor as he pushes it back. “I’ll take it from here, Thomas. I thank ya. You’ll best be on your way.” At that, Thomas turns on a heel and walks back out the door the way we came. The constable takes a firm hold of my upper arm and leads me to a barred cell. “What is this?” I demand, beginning to panic. “Miss, I will not take the chance of witchery here. It’s my job as constable to keep the citizens of Jamestown safe, and I intend to do so. You’ll stay here til the morning, when Justice Stoughton will see ya.” He had a thick accent, English I think. It was like a light bulb in my mind suddenly flashed bright. The lack of traffic, the buildings, the historical clothing and weird speech… the confusion when I told them I needed my phone. Either at some point from the time I left work until now, I traveled back in time to early Virginia… or I’m dreaming. I resolve that the only thing that makes sense is that I’m dreaming. And I’d like to wake up now. At some point in the night, I fall asleep. As I sit leaning against the cold wall of the cell, the adrenaline from the evening wears off a bit. I can’t help but feel utter exhaustion, which eventually gives way to sleep. Several hours later, I wake with a start, confused about where I am. My body aches from sleeping sitting up. I glance over to the window and notice that the dark is giving way to dawn and the birds are beginning to sing. I rub my eyes, hardly able to believe that this nightmare hasn’t ended yet. I hear footsteps approaching. The constable fumbles with a set of large keys as he searches for the one to my cell. Once he manages to unlock it, he sets a piece of bread and a metal mug on the floor near the door with a clunk. I didn’t realize until this moment that I am absolutely ravenous. A crusty piece of bread off the floor doesn’t sound appetizing but at this very moment I will take what I can get. I reach over to retrieve my fare. I quickly eat the bread and take a gulp from the mug."
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2024.05.19 21:13 Legitimate-Factor-53 I Feel Empty Because I Have to Restart From Nothing
So I’m an 18 year old male. I used to have a 2008 Subaru WRX and I loved it so much named it Sylphy would drive around in it when I was stressed or lonely I would never do anything stupid I only ever just kinda cruised around. The power the car had made it easy to accelerate and the turbo blowoff sound was euphoric.
I had been taking college classes and didn’t have much money at the time since I bought the car at the start of the school year. Then on the day of my final exam I get done with the test and on my way to my friends house to give him his calculator I got T-Boned.
I was at a stop sign in an area I’d never been in and someone to the right who had the right of way stopped and let the person ahead of me go then they went. So my brain went there are four stop signs here. Which there were just not facing all four directions.
So then I started crossing and saw someone barrel towards and they hit the back of my car sending me spinning off the road. So the accident was my fault. But in my head even after I had been hit. I thought why the hell did they run that stop sign. I don’t know if it was my ADD (Now know as inactive-ADHD) or what because I really did see the intersection as a four way stop. But I’m not going to use my disability as an excuse though.
Anyways the insurance didn’t cover it because the insurance is in my parents names. Mine wasn’t on there. The car took me three years to save up for working tirelessly day after day after day. Now Sylphy is gone. I also have like $1000 so it is going to take me all summer if I get full time at work to buy another WRX.
But I really am just tired and exhausted. Calculus and other college classes just drained everything out of me. My car was probably the only thing that kept me going because of how enjoyable it was and I had so many plans to mod it for reliability and maybe get a nice exhaust. Now all that is down the drain.
I feel really distraught. I’ve cried five times in the past two weeks since it happened. Sylphy meant so much to me and now that she has just been ripped away from me. Not only that I failed the class because of the final as well so maybe I just shouldn’t have gone to college that day I don’t know. I also have one highschool class that I just stopped doing work for after the accident because I’m just sick of always working.
But everything I do now just doesn’t feel like it’s really worth it anymore. Like I wake up and just want to lay in bed all day. I don’t work out anymore. And I’m not happy about my job anymore. I just feel like shutting down and letting everything play out. There is nothing I wouldn’t do just to have my car back. Because after I lost it I realized that it was the only thing making me get up every day.
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mentalhealth [link] [comments]
2024.05.19 21:09 TrackingSystemDirect GPS Tracker For Wife's Car
| GPS Tracker For Wife's Car - Discover Where She Is Going In 4 Easy Steps Do you believe your wife might be cheating, and the unknown is killing you? Listen, relationships inevitably face challenges, with partners sometimes choosing compromise, patience, or, regrettably, infidelity. Cheating, a leading cause for breakups, leaves many husbands grappling for the truth. This is where a GPS tracker for wife's car can provide answers. But how do you know if this is the right step? In this article, you will discover how GPS tracking devices can offer concrete evidence of infidelity. You'll learn not just the hows, but also the whys, providing a clearer path through relationship troubles. Disclaimer: Before you consider placing a GPS tracker on any vehicle, it's essential to understand the legal and ethical boundaries. Consent is paramount. Without explicit permission from the owner of the vehicle, you could be infringing upon privacy rights and potentially violating federal, state, or local laws. Educate yourself on the legalities in your jurisdiction; unauthorized tracking is not only a breach of trust but may also lead to legal consequences. Remember, transparency in intent and action is not just a courtesy—it's a legal requirement. Finally, this content is for educational purposes only. Tracking System Direct provides information about GPS car trackers to inform your decisions, not to encourage or condone misuse. We do not accept responsibility for any privacy invasions or legal infractions that occur as a result of using a GPS tracking device. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any actions you take with GPS technology comply with applicable laws and respect individual privacy. How to Track Your Wife's Car In 4 Easy Steps: Choose A Reliable GPS Tracker For Cars https://preview.redd.it/xu5uuaxmjf1d1.jpg?width=500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=30ae7b73808688cb67dec9e7511b2fb1999a3fee https://i.redd.it/hj6r2v5ojf1d1.gif Visit Website: https://spacehawkgps.com When selecting a GPS tracker for cheating spouse, prioritize long battery life; it ensures consistent monitoring without frequent recharges. Opt for real-time tracking to monitor your wife's location instantly. Look for a compact design, making the tracker less noticeable and less likely to be tampered with. Our suggestion? SpaceHawk GPS. However, you could consider the SpyTec GL300 or Tracki if you want something cheaper that has more expensive monthly subscription fees. Avoid bulky models that are hard to install discreetly. Ensure the interface is intuitive; it should allow you to navigate features quickly and easily. Steer clear of trackers without durable builds; they may not withstand the rigors of daily vehicle use. We recommend a product that is both waterproof and designed with a magnet mount. Finally, avoid GPS products without customer or technical support; you'll need reliable help if issues arise. Install The GPS Tracker Discreetly In Your Wife's Car https://i.redd.it/wq486azsjf1d1.gif Install the GPS tracker in a concealed location so it remains undetected. Look for spots where it won't draw attention, like underneath seats or inside a glove compartment. Also, choose a spot that's away from routine cleaning areas to avoid accidental discovery such as the center console. Also, consider places that are rarely accessed for maintenance, like beneath the dashboard or in the lining of the trunk. If the tracker is visible, it's likely to be found. That is another reason to invest in a GPS tracker with magnet - it can be hidden under the car. Resource*: You can learn more about the best spot where to hide a GPS tracker* here. Set Up The Tracking System https://i.redd.it/xp11gfixjf1d1.gif To set up your GPS car tracker, start by registering it with the corresponding tracking app on your smartphone. This process typically involves downloading the app specified by the tracker's manufacturer. Once installed, open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to create an account. After signing up, you'll likely need to enter a serial number or scan a QR code provided with the GPS tracker. This step is crucial to pair the device with your app, ensuring you can monitor the car's location through your phone. The app may then guide you through a setup wizard to customize settings like notification preferences and update intervals. Monitor Your Wife's Car Location https://i.redd.it/iz4f0qr0kf1d1.gif To monitor your wife's car location and movements, open the tracking app linked to the GPS device you've installed in her vehicle. This app will display real-time location data, allowing you to see where the car is at any given moment. Ensure the app is set to provide live updates so you can track the car's movements as they happen. Keep an eye on the app's map interface, which should show the car's current location and possibly its direction and speed. Some apps also offer the feature to view the car's route history, which can be helpful for understanding travel patterns or identifying frequently visited places. Remember to use such tracking responsibly and ethically, respecting privacy and considering the implications of monitoring someone's movements. It's generally best to have open communication about the use of such devices and to ensure that there is mutual consent and understanding regarding their purpose and use. Best GPS Tracker For Cheating Wife https://preview.redd.it/qsiij7t1kf1d1.jpg?width=2560&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ae68c6b3b6f5c4d6f6547a71b5c8e527df1f094a CHECK PRICE! - Legally Find Out If She Is Cheating
- One Of The Top Spy Devices For 2023
- Discover Everywhere She Is Going When You Are Not Around
- User-Friendly Cheating Spouse Spy Equipment
- Magnet Mount For Secret Placement On Her Vehicle
Have you ever found yourself questioning your wife's activities, wondering if she is truly where she claims to be? In relationships, trust and fidelity are vital for a solid foundation. Yet, at times, doubts can arise, leading men to question the strength of their marital bond. The growing trend of relationship verification has become a means for husbands to seek validation and uncover the truth in their committed unions. One powerful tool that aids in this quest is the SpaceHawk vehicle tracking system. By utilizing the SpaceHawk GPS vehicle tracking device, you can find out the truth. In fact, this GPS tracker for wife's car is the same device used by private investigators conducting infidelity investigations. However, while the SpaceHawk mini GPS offers evidence-gathering capabilities, approaching relationship verification cautiously is crucial. Trust and open communication should always form the foundation of any relationship. Reflecting on the potential consequences, positive and negative, is vital when employing such technology. https://preview.redd.it/uzv2hakbkf1d1.png?width=990&format=png&auto=webp&s=c1fd4f56446bf1460dfccb8811bc8b83aa8e6c1f Another Top Choice For GPS Car Tracker: https://konnectgps.com Is It OK To Spy On Your Spouse - Pros vs Cons The topic of surveillance within a marriage is a highly sensitive one, fraught with ethical dilemmas and personal conflict. On one hand, the use of a GPS tracker for wife's car can offer undeniable proof of your partner's whereabouts, potentially bringing hidden truths to light. This could either pave the way for much-needed transparency or be the first step towards healing a fractured relationship. On the other hand, the act of tracking itself can be seen as a breach of trust, with the potential to inflict deep emotional wounds. Yes, and even bring about the dissolution of the marriage. In this section, we will explore the nuanced debate of, " Is It OK To Spy On Your Spouse" by weighing the pros and cons. Pros: - The truth will be revealed, providing clarity and closure.
- Validating fidelity can help rebuild trust and restore the relationship.
- Ending an affair with tracking system evidence can protect emotional well-being.
Cons: - The truth can be painful and deeply hurtful, causing emotional distress.
- Your partner may feel betrayed and hurt by the lack of trust.
- The tracking system evidence may lead to the end of the marriage.
https://preview.redd.it/gk50a1l5kf1d1.jpg?width=1792&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=661a72e4adf3712ffa77194b8fd4a4dd0e47fa87 Image Generated By AI 5 Warning Signs Your Wife Is Having An Affair - Every Husband Needs To Know! - Noticeable Changes in Scent. If your wife frequently comes home smelling of unfamiliar cologne or cigarettes, it could be a sign of an affair.
- Increased Secrecy with Communication. If your wife starts turning off her cellular phone or communication devices when she is around you, it may indicate she is trying to hide something.
- Heightened Focus on Appearance. If your wife suddenly becomes more concerned with looking good and dressing provocatively when going out alone, it could be a sign of infidelity.
- Guarded Behavior and Lack of Transparency. If your wife becomes defensive or secretive about her whereabouts, not providing details about her daily schedule or routine, it could be a red flag.
- Emotional and Physical Distance. If sex is no longer a priority and your wife shows disinterest in your daily events, making excuses to avoid intimacy, it may indicate an emotional disconnection caused by an affair.
Remember, these signs are not definitive proof of infidelity, but they could warrant further investigation and open communication. It's important to approach any concerns with sensitivity and seek professional advice if needed. Strengthening Connections, Communication, and Marriage Counseling Open dialogue with your partner is the bedrock of a healthy relationship. It invites trust and understanding, allowing you both to share concerns and aspirations. More importantly, engage in regular, heartfelt discussions to reinforce your connection. By doing so, you create a safe space for honesty, which can alleviate doubts and fears. Marriage counseling offers a structured approach to improving your relationship. Statistics reveal its effectiveness; for instance, research published by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy indicates that over 90% of clients report improved emotional health. Experts like Dr. John Gottman advocate for the power of communication in resolving conflicts and building lasting partnerships. In therapy, you learn to listen actively and speak constructively, transforming potential rifts into pillars of mutual support. Counseling isn't just about fixing problems—it's about enriching your relationship, deepening your bond, and growing together. Embrace it as a proactive step towards a fulfilling union. Frequently Asked Questions Can I Put A Tracking Device On My Wife's Car? Yes, you can put a tracking device on your wife's car, but there are important factors to consider. - Legality. Before proceeding, it's crucial to understand the legal implications. Laws regarding tracking devices vary by jurisdiction, so it's essential to research and comply with local laws. Check with a legal professional or consult local statutes for accurate information on the use of realtime GPS trackers.
- Relationship Dynamics. Consider the potential impact on your relationship. Introducing a tracking device may create a sense of distrust and invasion of privacy. It is important to evaluate whether the use of a cheating spouse GPS aligns with the principles of mutual respect and open communication in your relationship.
- Alternatives. Instead of resorting to tracking devices, consider fostering open dialogue and addressing any underlying issues that may be causing doubt or suspicion. Relationship counseling or seeking professional advice can be more productive in rebuilding trust and resolving conflicts.
Remember, maintaining a healthy and trusting relationship is essential. Using a tracker for car should only be considered after careful consideration of the legal, ethical, and emotional aspects involved. Where Is My Wife Going? The truth is, you don't really know unless you find out. Discover the truth with SpaceHawk spouse tracker, the most successful GPS car tracking system on the market. With over 127,000 units sold since 2023, SpaceHawk outperforms other live GPS trackers like Spy Tec STI GL300 Mini and Vyncs GPS Tracker. In fact, it is the top choice among men who needed a GPS car tracker to catch a cheating wife. Don't live in uncertainty. Invest in a GPS vehicle tracker like SpaceHawk to track your wife's activities. Obtain undeniable evidence to start the healing process and rebuild your lives and family. Will My Wife Know If I Put A GPS Tracker On Her Car? Covert GPS trackers are designed to be hidden, ensuring that your wife remains unaware of its presence during tracking. This is why they are a better choice when compared to bluetooth trackers such as Tile Mate or Apple AirTag. Can A Car GPS Tracker Help Me Catch My Cheating Wife? Yes, a mini GPS tracker can provide valuable information about your wife's whereabouts and activities. Can I Use A GPS Spouse Tracker To Monitor My Wife's Phone Calls Or Text Messages? No, GPS spouse trackers are specifically designed for location tracking and do not provide access to phone calls or messages. Can I Track My Wife's Location In Real-Time With A GPS Tracker? Yes, real-time GPS tracking allows you to monitor your wife's precise location at any given moment. submitted by TrackingSystemDirect to GPStracking [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 20:54 RSHTekTeach Exhaust Fan in Greenhouse Wiring Help
tl;dr - Wiring an exhaust fan with complications.
Hey Folks, new to Reddit and such. I'll save the formalities; I'm looking for some assistance with understanding the operation of a 42-in exhaust fan in a greenhouse.
Admittedly, the greenhouse existed long before my time, and it is apparent things weren't upkept properly. At the end of the day, I will probably need a professional electrician's assistance, but wanted to consult you all as well for a learning opportunity. Apologies for the "improper" names of components; while I understand some basic electronics, this project is somewhat beyond my knowledge.
left terminal box
gray-black button, reset pictured in bottom section
side of left-terminal
details found inside exhaust fan box
details found inside left-terminal box
details found in left-terminal box
two terminal boxes, one on right is from breaker panel and goes into left one. left one goes to fan. Here's a rundown of what I have gathered, tested, and where things currently stand.
In the greenhouse is a dedicated breaker panel. One double-breaker controls the exhaust fan. A few months ago, I jerry-rigged the wiring in the left terminal box so that when the breaker was on, the fan operated. Now, a wire has likely come loose, and I cannot figure out how to repair. The fan still works, but some "auxiliary components" do not.
From the breaker, the wires go into a three-position switch, then into the first of two terminal boxes (above the red lawnmower above). Each terminal box has some sort of "thermostat" on its side, with one being marked 90* and the other 85* in sharpie. Turning the dials on both of these does nothing. I anticipate the thermostats do not work, likely corroded connections.
The switch has hand-written text stating "Caution, override." When the switch is in the middle (off) or up (on), the terminal box below it does nothing. When down (on), the system is trying to do...something, explained next. More sharpie text has an arrow "forward" for summer and "back" for winter; as it is written above the first terminal box.
In the right box, there is a terminal with a gray "push button." When the switch is down, this gray button is "automatically" pressed into the terminal block and a buzz sound occurs. Nothing else happens. It's a rather loud buzzing.
Wires come out of this first terminal box, into a second, then into the exhaust fan. In this second terminal box is a ton of wires (like the first box too). Their state is rather unkempt. On the front face of the terminal box is some manufacturer data, a pushable blue "reset" button, and another pushable "button." If I push in this second gray-black button and hold it, the fan powers on at full speed. There is a mix of wire nuts and colored wires. Red, blue, black, green, white, and brown. There are some wires which are loose, and I assume fell out of a wire nut.
I've provided some pictures to hopefully help explain the circuitry, and appreciate any help you all may be able to provide. Being at a school, the nature of "getting repairs" for something like this is far down the bureaucratic totem pole of repairs, so I do not anticipate getting an electrician's help soon. Thank you for your knowledge and the teachable moment for me!
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2024.05.19 20:43 duhastasas Failed smog CO test on 2003 Honda accord 2.0 liter 7th gen K20A6
Hello, my car recently failed the technical inspection test there were various problems that I already fixed but one of them is still giving me a headache. One of the failed points was 8.2.1.2.b - Carbon monoxide amount in exhaust is over the allowed limit
And another one which seems to be connected to the first is 8.2.1.2.c - lambda value doesn't fit within specified interval or doesn't meet manufacturer specifications I asked around and It seems like my engine is running rich, and my friends who I asked seem to think its most likely because of a hole in my exhaust somewhere, I haven't been able to check for holes yet but I am planning on it .
My question is whether there are any other things that could be causing these readings The results of the emission test were 1.08 λ while the limit is 0.97 to 1,03
Just had my oxygen sensor changed (the one that sits inside the cat)
Thanks for any help
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2024.05.19 20:36 willybtrash [FN] Fallen
“I want to be human. I want to be human.” I repeat to myself, as I stare into the dusty bathroom mirror.
Doesn’t look like anyone’s been in this bathroom since nineteen-o-dirt. I’m surprised I even found anything way out here. Ran into a couple people on the drive over, but none too friendly.
If I were a betting man, there’s gotta be some place nearby I can get some gas. Car ran out about a mile back, I’ve been hoofing it ever since. Now I’m exhausted, real glad I can’t overheat.
What the hell is with this place anyway? One mile is barren, the next is overgrown. Pockets of leafy green, stitched into this khaki pant leg of earth. It’s confusing to say the least.
“I want to be human.” One last time for good measure, then I throw my bag over my shoulder and step out of the bathroom. Peeking down both ways of the hall, to make sure no one heard me talking to myself.
“Who am I kidding, this place hasn’t seen a soul since my dad got here.” I mumble to the seemingly empty building.
“And it still ain’t seen one yet.” a voice calls from down the stretch of room doors.
I freeze in place, something about that voice seemed familiar. I can’t recall where I had heard it, but l definitely have.
“I’m not here to hurt anyone, just looking for some place safe to stay.” I call down to the disembodied voice.
“A refugee, huh?” A man dressed in a ranchers hat, and a poncho steps from around a door frame. it’s about twenty feet to my right.
“Aren’t we all.” his face is covered by the hats wide brim, but his voice is menacing. “You know, you’re one tough son of a bitch to track down.”
I knew it was stupid to stop in a motel, broad daylight and all. I just wanted to wash up a bit, then I’d be on my way.
“If you’re going to kill me, you better do it quick. Cause hell’s comin’ right behind me.“ I shout, seeing if he’ll call my bluff.
“Sly little devil, but no one is comin’ for ya. Not yet anyhow.” he kicks the base-board of the hall with his spurred boots. “Now, you can either come to me or…” he pauses, letting out a long sigh. “You’re gonna have to do your running on crutches.” He’s serious, hand already on his hip.
“Out of all the hunters, it had to be you.” I wasn’t going to run, there was no point. But how did he know? I stepped into the hall.
“My scouts watched you leave y’all’s little empire of bones. Gave me where you were headed.” He said smugly, I could hear the grin behind his words. He was swaying on his hips. (Could he read my mind?) “Never thought you’d fly the nest, but whaddya know? Looks like fallen angels, regrow wings.”
“Yeah, yeah, whatever. Spare me the monologue, Jesus! Is this all the time with you?” I put both hands together, and slowly approach so he doesn’t get too antsy. The last thing I want is to catch a bullet from a professional cosplayer.
As I approach, I can see the long hair poking out from under his hat. It’s greasy, probably been on the road for awhile. I know I have. His beard is immaculate though, full, and medium length. I almost ask him where he finds a barber out here. My guessing is he cuts it himself, unless it just always looks that way. The thought annoys me.
Stripping me of my backpack, and searching for more goods, which he finds… (my knife, and a half eaten raw scrap of meat I’d been snacking on.) He wraps my hands in a rope binding. After he’s satisfied the knot is secured, he pats my head.
“There, there, kid. I ain’t gonna hurt ya, but your pa? Yeah, ole’ Baphy might. Once we tell him where you are that is.” That word, kid. It always stung, but this time was especially potent in its venom. His hand grips my shoulder, and pushes me toward the exit.
This place is in ruin, dust on the walls. The floors are starting to decay. Everything in here has either been broken, or scavenged. It’s picked clean. I can’t help but wonder what it was like before, what kind of people stayed here? As we enter the light outside, he steps in front of me. Strapping my pack onto his horse.
A beautiful creature, all white. Shiny, and well fed. No gas required. Dammit, why didn’t I think of that?
“You know he’ll kill us both. My dad doesn’t forgive, like you.” I call out, hoping he’ll show some semblance of mercy.
He finishes fixing my gear to his nag, and turns to me. “Oh, I don’t do the forgiving thing no more.” He steps to me, I can feel his breath on my face. “I fucking hate my neighbors.”
He points to the horse, and steps aside. I guess he wants me to climb on? I step forward and put one foot in a stirrup, while he helps me climb up and over. I laugh to myself. “Look ma, no hands.”
“If I find out who she is, she’ll be buried right beside you and pa.” The laughing stopped, he was serious.
“So, where are you taking me?” I managed to choke out.
“Don’t you worry about that kid, you just make sure you don’t fall off. Can’t make a deal with the devil, if all I have to offer is damaged goods.” He kicked the horse twice, clicked his tongue, and we were off
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