danielpfund

[creativeboxesblog]

Enhance Your Brand with Custom Reed Diffuser Boxes

Custom Reed Diffuser Boxes provide a platform to showcase your brand’s personality and values. Whether you opt for sleek minimalism or vibrant designs, each box becomes a canvas for your creativity.

For more details visit us: https://www.wattpad.com/1449855875-uk-best-custom-boxes-supplier-enhance-your-brand

[domesticatedangel]

had such a shitty customer today that im about to go back to being a barista

[custompackaginghub]

Avoid doing this when designing Custom Reed Diffuser Boxes

Want to showcase your fragrance-emitting items prominently? Then, you would never stop buying reed diffuser boxes that keep products in the limelight. It is a fact that customers always buy such fragranced items that induce their minds.

 No matter how aromatic your reed diffuser boxes are if it’s not packed in high-quality containers the consumers’ will never make a second look at them. For this, the brands should add marketing details and product information on the custom boxes that envision consumers about the brand.

[a-thousand-eyes-and-one]

asoiaf characters who could hack it as a starbucks barista:

— jon. runs that shit like the navy. schedules five minute scream-cry sessions for himself in the supply closet but everyone pretends not to notice bc it kinda seems like its working for him. keeps accidentally charming the regulars

— arya. only ever works closing shift bc if you put her on morning/lunch rush she yells at customers. cleans like a crazy person and leaves the place spotless. WILL put a nick in your car’s tire valve with a box opener if you make her count the till

— loras. makes GREAT coffee and can smooth things over with irate middle aged women very easily. however if ur gay avoid his location bc he cannot stop himself from being catty its in his BLOOD. also:

— dany. hits her (painstakingly decorated) dab pen in her car before work so she’s very zen. however she Is the coworker you sic on asshole customers bc she’s very good at making them feel stupid and also never caves and gives out free drinks

asoiaf characters who could NOT hack it as a starbucks barista:

— sansa. is the aforementioned caver. always turning up the heat because she’s cold even though literally everyone else is sweating like pigs. stayed on a couple months because it turns out mean customers calm down when she starts to cry #prettygirlhack but eventually quits because she hates cleaning the bathroom

— theon. uniquely bad at his job. writes his number on every other cup he hands out even to people wearing wedding bands or ACTIVELY WITH THEIR PARTNER IN THE STORE (has been beaten up like four times doing this). never ties off the garbage correctly. uses too much water when he mops and has slipped in it and twisted his ankle multiple times. is a soundcloud rapper and is always trying to get the manager to play his music in the store

— robb. nobody wants to fire him because hes genuinely a great guy but he takes eighty million years to make one drink and he’s always comping shit for his girlfriend who comes in all the time

— jojen reed. okay at the job but is always saying ominous shit to customers and is passive aggressive to whoever closed the previous night no matter how good of a job they did. quit because someone else got fired for showing up to work high and he didnt want to be next

[billielolly]

Sims 3 Build - Relaxation Retreat

A vibrant family home full of opportunities for fun and relaxation, with plenty of space for a budding gardener. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, on a 30x40 lot.

Watch the speed build: https://youtu.be/-7bnRL8bAsA

Download here:

Patreon (free): https://www.patreon.com/posts/111265768/

Exchange:

Expansion packs:

Ambitions

Late Night ?

Generations

Pets

Supernatural

Seasons

University Life

Stuff packs:

None

Store content:

Stones Throw Greenhouse - Greenhouse Window, Greenhouse Roof Center

Custom content:

heaven - Neutral Slate Roof with White Trim

missyzim - Neoclassic Build Set (Tall Wide 2x1, Tall Wide 1 Tile, Counter High 1 Tile, Tall 1 Tile)

Cakenoodles - 13pumpkin Rustic Wood Floor

Angela - Aiden Buildset 3x1 Arch

Martassimsbook - MyCupOfCC Hot Tub

Onyxium - Jena Bathroom Accessories (Reed Diffuser, Soap Dispenser, Toilet Brush, Tooth Brushes)

Mutske - Toiletroom Aria Toilet Paperholder

Gosik - Kobe Bathroom Towels 2

Martassimsbook - cmdesigns Anemone Bathroom Set Candle

Martassimsbook - Ars-botanica Cup of Pansies

Martassimsbook - Cowbuild Dahlia and Delpinium Vases

Mutske - Plant Palm Large

sim_man123 - Emerson Ficus Tree

Martassimsbook - novvvas Planties pt3 (Ficus Lyrata V1, Ficus Elastica, Monstera Deliciosa)

Martassimsbook - Cowbuild My Home Set (Hanging Pothos Plant)

ATS3 - Kitchen Herbs (Basil)

ArtVitalex - Mayorka Ceiling Spot Lamp

johziii - Irene Lamp

NynaeveDesign - Lyne Curtains (Curtains 1x1 Left, Curtains 1x1 Right, Curtains 2x1, Curtains 3x1, Rod)

ArtVitalex - Kalkgrund Mirror

Onyxium - Gibsonton Bed

Martassimsbook - Lorelea Floral Paintings

ArtVitalex - April Kitchen

ArtVitalex - Glen Mirror

Angela - Michelle Bedroom Mirror

ArtVitalex - Hampton Dining Chair

sweetdevil - More Planters (Prickly Planter)

sweetdevil - More Planters Part 3 (Fancy Box Planter)

Wandering Sims - Wildflower Mix Pattern 4

missyzim - French Country Paintings (Country Floral Painting, French Country Paintings 3, Provencial Painting)

Mutske - Liatorp Palm in Basket

Angela - Simspiration Issue 01 Watering Can

ArtVitalex - Upland Bathroom Accessories (Toilet Brush, Soap Dispenser, Toothbrush and Paste)

Twinsimming - Single Serve Hammock

Crowkeeper - The Cryptic Triptych Paintings (Enchanted)

ArtVitalex - Rowlett Hallway Extra (Key Bowl, Umbrella Holder)

Julietsimscc - Dark Landscapes Artwork

ArtVitalex - Doyle Pen Holder

Lulu265 - Bedford Bedroom Wall Art

deeiutza - Cottage Reading Corner Books

Martassimsbook - Pinkboxdesign Kitchen Clutter Set Dishsoap

Martassimsbook - Syboulette Millennial Kitchen Fruit Basket

ATS3 - Ceramic Canisters

Dhalsims - EA Ceiling Smoke Alarm

ATS3 - Wall Rack IKEA Fintorp-like

ATS3 - Washing-up Wooden Dish Rack

Martassimsbook - Cowbuild 500 Patrons Gifts Notebooks

Kerrigan House Designs - Belle Epoque Vanity

Martassimsbook - novvvas Mid Century Modern Living Room Books 2

QoAct - Lina Cushion II

sim_man123 - Celea Lily Vase

ATS3 - School Notebooks

ATS3 - Parisian Bistro Chair 4

bioniczombie - Tom Berry Knife Block

Martassimsbook - Chicklet Modern Lenai Patio (Chair, Box Deco)

Martassimsbook - Marvell Breeze Collection Plant

PralineSims - Contemporary Carpet 22

PralineSims - Big Flokati III

PralineSims - Classic Carpet 3

(Optional) zoe22 - Flower Arranging Mod (Table Used)

[bouncinghedgehog]

BREAKING: Donald Trump gets infuriating news as titans of business like Mark Cuban, Reed Hastings, and Aaron Levine band together to launch a new initiative to elect Kamala Harris.

Business for Leaders for Harris has launched a series of slickly produced video testimonials from small business owners as well as the aforementioned prominent industry leaders to argue for a Harris presidency.

At the top of the list are Shark Tank billionaire Mark Cuban, LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings, Box CEO Aaron Levine, former American Express CEO Ken Chenault, and former Merck CEO Ken Frazier. They all recorded short videos in support of Harris.

"Kamala Harris brings order and innovation. Donald Trump brings chaos and fear and hopelessness. We need someone who will bring us hope in a very tangible way and that is Kamala Harris," Chenault said in his testimonial.

"In many ways, I think it will be an improvement from the current administration. And one of her differences is the level of interest that she has," said Hastings.

Business Leaders for Harris comes from the progressive Republican Accountability PAC. The super PAC received $6 million from Hoffman and $7 million from Hastings alone.

On top of that, Hoffman will be hosting the new Business Leaders for Harris podcast, the first episode of which will feature him talking to Cuban and then Hastings.

Hoffman said he has heard from "a whole bunch of CEOs, who actually feel very strongly that Harris is better for business, but who don’t feel like they can speak up as much because they’re currently in ‘the seat.'"

"They’re kind of like, ’Hey, I got a bunch of employees. I got shareholders. I got customers," he added.

[anon-sect]

PART ONE

Jake had noticed he had a stalker. He kept seeing a strange guy just about wherever he was when he wasn't home. And to be honest, it was getting quite creepy.

One day in the mall, Jake saw the stranger once more. He decided he would elud him in one of the busiest department stores. His plan was to quickly exit before the stalker even noticed he left. He entered and watched as his stalker followed him in. He saw the guy was persistent.

He knew of only one plan to elud his stalker, but it was risky. Seeing that it was his best option, he proceeded with his operation. He made sure the guy had followed him toward the show department. Once in the area, he found a cleared section with no customers. He quickly used his transformation power.

Jake instantly was a size fourteen pair of AND1 sneakers on the floor. Just at that moment, the stalker arrived but only saw the sneakers on the floor and left the section. He was relieved to see him disappear at last. It was time to revert back to normal and exit before the stalker got wind of his plan.

Just as Jake was about to transform back, another guy showed up. He seemed to be looking for a particular pair of shoes. He didn't want to transform back now because his secret would be revealed. So he waited to see if the guy would eventually leave the area. The guy looked to be about 6'4" tall with an athletic built body. Jake actually found him attractive looking. He could also tell that his shoe size was rather large. It was then he saw his situation could be bad for him. He only hoped the guy would not be interested in him and move on.

Reed couldn't find the exact pair he needed in his size. He was looking for a pair of AND1's, but found none in his size. It was then he noticed a pair on the floor, but it didn't have a price tag on it. It looked like someone just left them there, totally brand new look. He tried on the left sneaker, and found it to fit perfectly and comfortably on his foot.

Jake looked on with horror as he saw the stranger approach him. This was bad, yet he didn't want anyone knowing about his secret power. He felt the guy pick him up off the floor and examine the sneaker tongue of the left shoe. He saw the guy smiling as he began to walk off with him in his hands. The fact of him being temporarily worn on his left foot brought on the gravity of his situation. This stranger wanted to take him home and use him as his pair of shoes. The worst was that the stranger was unaware of the true nature of the sneakers in his hands.

Reed found just what he was looking for and in the right size. The only issue was how to pay for them. There was no price tag on either sneaker. He went to find a store manager to see how much the sneakers cost.

"I found these perfectly new pair of sneakers on the floor, no price tag. I was wondering how much for them." Reed paused. "They were the only pair I found in my size." He handed them over to the store manager to examine.

The store manager saw that they were brand new, but curious as to why the price tag wasn't there. "Follow me," he told Reed. He went to one of the computer stations, and found that particular pair in that size wasn't even on the inventory list. Yet, they were brand new sneakers. He couldn't just let these leave without the store making some money on the issue. "I can sell them to you for $15.00. They were originally $32.99. Discounted due to the price tag removed and not boxed." The store manager lied since the customer wasn't looking at the computer screen.

Reed couldn't believe his luck. It was a bargain to get them almost half price. "I'll take them." He replied. He followed the store manager as he went to get a box to place them in. It was hard to find a box that they would fit in, but he eventually found one.

Jake saw his situation go from bad to worse. Once he was placed in the box, there was no getting of being sold to the stranger. If he is confined in a small space, he would not be able to transform back unless in open space. He was literally stuck as the guy's sneakers until an opportunity presented itself.

Reed followed him to the cash register where the store manager put in his code that allowed him to mark down items in special cases. Once paid for, Reed left the store with his new shoes in the bag.

Reed really was anxious to test out his new sneakers. He went to the closes mall restroom. There he took off his old sneakers and put on his new pair of AND1s. He felt like he was walking on clouds. They were really comfortable.

Jake wanted to cry. He went into that store to elud his stalker to end up being sold away as footwear for a total stranger. The nightmare got even worse because now the stranger was completely wearing him. If the box situation was bad, being on feet was worse. He really couldn't transform back now. He could smell a slightly bad foot odor coming from the slightly dingy white socks. The fact that it was pressed on his face made him have no escape from it. His face would compress and decompress with each step. It felt never-ending. With no end insight to how bad his predicament would get, he was forced to endure a never ending torment at the feet of a stranger who was completely oblivious of what he was doing to another human being.

Reed went to place the old shoes in his car and to meet up with friends in the restaurant section of the mall. He could not wait to show off his new shoes. They were the best pair he had ever bought. He had plans to spend the rest of the afternoon with his friends in the mall.

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Erin Reed at Erin In The Morning:

Over the last week, conservative influencer accounts have ignited a firestorm over cisgender boxer Imane Khelif, alleging that she is actually a “man” and suggesting she might be transgender. This is despite officials confirming that Khelif was assigned female at birth and has competed as a woman her entire life. The controversy has led to statements from Donald Trump, J.D. Vance, and anti-transgender influencers, who are using the boxer’s participation to target transgender athletes. Now, the Boston Globe, a major American paper, has published and circulated into print the false claim that Khelif is transgender. The title reads, “Transgender Boxer Advances.” The headline was placed on an AP article written by sports journalist Greg Beachem, who asserts, “That's not my headline. That word isn't in my story. My stories are syndicated worldwide, and customers are allowed to write their own headlines.” The use of alternate headlines is a common practice for wire services. The word “transgender” does not appear once in the story, which was printed on August 2, 2024.

There is no evidence that Khelif is a transgender woman. Although transgender women are allowed to compete in the Olympics, there are no openly transgender women competing this year. Meanwhile, International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach has confirmed that Khelif is a cisgender boxer, calling disinformation about her gender “totally unacceptable.” Khelif’s family shared pictures of her as a child, as well as identity documents showing her assigned sex at birth. Notably, gender transition is criminalized in Algeria, making it extremely unlikely that transgender people would be allowed to transition in the country.

The original claim about Khelif’s sex eligibility arose when the scandal-plagued International Boxing Association (IBA) ruled her out of competition, alleging she failed an unspecified gender test after defeating an undefeated Russian boxer. Notably, the IBA is presided over by Umar Kremlev of Russia, an associate of President Putin. In 2023, the International Olympic Committee voted to derecognize the IBA due to concerns about corruption, governance, and judging controversies.

[...] Update: The paper has issued a correction and apologized. “A significant error was made in a headline on a story in Friday’s print sports section about Algerian boxer Imane Khelif incorrectly describing her as transgender. She is not. Additionally, our initial correction of this error neglected to note that she was born female. We recognize the magnitude of this mistake and have corrected it in the epaper, the electronic version of the printed Globe. This editing lapse is regretful and unacceptable and we apologize to Khelif, to Associated Press writer Greg Beacham, and to you, our readers.”

The Boston Globe should be ashamed of themselves for inaccurately describing Imane Khelif as “transgender”. The paper did later, apologize for the insensitively bigoted headline but not the trans community as a whole.

[titleleaf]

more on BG Sister Matilda and the Dune Encyclopedia

The Dune Encyclopedia is put together like a collection of different in-universe articles and commentaries, and the result is really interesting if sometimes very frustrating. This kind of meta storytelling approach allowed the contributors to address some of the inadvertent inconsistencies and unexplored elements of the novels' worldbuilding but also to get a little silly with it. The entry on the mandatory SFF fuck-planet Gamont is so freaking weird that I have to share it with my fellow Duneposters -- we're given a passage from the diary of a humble Bene Gesserit laundress as she records the curious customs and peculiar folk songs she encounters there and we get the flavor of the place through her stubbornly innocent POV. This interlude was written by J.R.M. aka Julia Reed; the text that follows is Reed's, while all transcription errors are mine.

[content note: the cultural insensitivity in this is a little different than usual for Dune -- some of the themed areas on Gamont relate to Orientalist and racist fantasies around sexual enslavement drawn from our own Earth history, handled with all the flippancy of a horny Disney theme park. Also the canonicity of this is... dubious.]

****

Sabhaasdii, nAudrim 28:

Cold and windy again today, but the laundry-room is always warm. Lots of sisters complain about Wallach's weather, but not me. My job is a blessing.

Shannisdii, nAudrim 29:

Entertainment tonight. A very special dinner in honor of His Grace, Duke Philippos from Gallatin and his wife — a great lady, you could tell. After supper in the Great Hall, his musicians played and our choir sang. And that was very nice, but then I almost died! His Grace introduced his mentat — a fine-looking man, but tunic not well pressed — and asked him to very kindly favor us with a demonstration. Well, the mentat looked right at me and asked me what I did, so I told him I was the head laundress. Then he wrote something down on a piece of paper, and asked me to ask him any question that I wanted. Well, I don't know why, but the first thing popped into my head, and I said, "How many stars are in the Lyre Nebula?" Then he passed the note to Reverend Mother and asked her to read it out, and she did — it said "The number of stars in the Lyre Nebula is" — and then some big number. Well, that didn't go over too well. I mean, there was some polite applause, but mentats, after all!

Jehansdii, nAudrim 30:

I think I figured it out, what the mentat did. When I went to work this morning, I picked up the soap box and right on the back there's this big ad for a contest "Name the Stars". And it said, how many stars in the Lyre Nebula, and if you fill it out, you win a prize if you're right. And then I remembered that the mentat asked me what I did first, before anything, I still have his paper for a souvenir. I ought to send it in. Serve him right.

Phyllisdii, neSheustim 15:

I won!!! I can't believe it!!! The mentat was right and I won a Two-Week, All- Expense Paid Trip to Gamont, Planet of Pleasure, wherever that is.

Mothersdii. neSheustim 16:

Well I went to 'see Mother Caius today and it was very strange — very strange indeed. Said no. Said Sister Matilda, the trip would be too strenuous for a woman of your years. My years! I said I'm only fifty-seven add I've been doing laundry for forty years, and the the last eight and you can't be all that weak if you can do that. Then I told her just how much wash there was to be toted around. I promised to take Sister Bertha with me, so Mother said we could keep an eye on one another. Then she said something about innocence being the best protection and sent me off.

Glensdii, neSheustim 25:

I've been so busy I've really neglected my diary. A lot to catch up on. First, I'm writing this from Gamont, which is a very odd place. When we got off the ship, there was a wire fence between us and a line marked "Departures," and over on the other side were some Sardaukars of Salvation playing music and handing out pamphlets and passing the tambour. I was going to give them a donation and get some religious reading for the quiet times, but apparently the law allows them only to talk to a person going home, not one coming in. Then we went outside, and people were singing and natives were putting strings of beads around everyone's neck. These beads are to pay for things on Gamont, you just pop one off and use it like money. A very pretty little boy came running over to me and Bertha and said are you from Wallach, Sisters Matilda and Bertha? We said yes and he winked and handed us two brown envelopes. We looked inside and, goodness, the necklaces must have had two hundred beads on them. Later a man said, "Hey, you're Bene Gesserit." And we said that's right, how did you know? He said the B.G.'s always get their beads in plain envelopes. I don't think I'll ever spend all my beads — I mean, how much can one person eat and drink? Maybe souvenirs for the sisters in the laundry.

Twosday, neSheustim 26:

I'm exhausted. I woke up when it was still dark because I could hear someone breathing in bed with me, and I thought "Poor Bertha, she must be homesick," and I said "Now, now, Bertha," and I turned the light on. But no, it wasn't Bertha but a very handsome young man with a mustache. And I said "Young man, get out of my bed immediately!" and I thought, some hotel to make a mistake like that! Well, I guess I woke up Bertha, too, and she screamed because there was a man in her bed, and my young man said, "But I am your guide to the pleasures of Gamont," and I said it was too dark to see anything on Gamont. Then I called the manager and things got straightened out. He said Ahmed and Pol (the boys) would be available in the morning to take us sightseeing. I think this vacation is going to be more of a strain than the spring cleaning wash.

I certainly learned things about Gamont when it got light. I thought it was for vacations, like the seaside on Kestrel where my parents used to take me, and people would build sandcastles and swim and eat ices in the evening.

Gamont is not like that.

The whole place is divided into what they call little worlds. You go inside one and you can pretend you are someone in the past or future and they do all sorts of unusual things. We got in a carriage drawn by a thorse and Ahmed and Pol started to show us the sights.

First we went to Eden. There was a woman dressed up like a snake at the entrance who wanted us to check our clothing and pick a costume from the rack. On the rack marked "Adams'' were all these leaves of all different sizes (but fake ones — cotton), but they were all marked "Extra-Large." There were different brands, too, Fig, Conan, Stud, though what kind of a tree a stud is, I can't say. Well, I certainly wasn't going to get undressed, so we didn't go in Eden.

I asked Ahmed if there wasn't a seashore we could go to, and he said sure, and we drove off again. We came to a world called Nantucket, and decided to have lunch before going to the beech. There was a restaurant called The Flipping Frog. Food all right. There was entertainment, too — a man and a woman sang a very funny (but sometimes puzzling) song. Here's what I remember about the beginning:

First the girl sang,

"Who's that knocking on my door?" "Who's that knocking on my door?" "Who's that knocking on my door?" Said the fair young maiden.

The boy answered,

"D' ye ken me still, I'm Barnacle Bill, O' the 'Rakis Royal Navy. And here I stand, come from 'neath the sand, With the 'Rakis Royal Navy."

So the girl told him to wipe his feet upon the mat, but there must have been a hundred verses, and our food came, and I don't remember the rest. Afterwards we went to the beach. Bertha and I had a good time wading and enjoying the sun. Ahmed and Pol played cards.

Oh, I almost forgot: Gamont has seven days in its week. They're called Funday, Manday, Twosday, Womanday, Threesday, Tryitday, and Satyrday. When the couple was singing, Bertha almost choked, she was laughing so hard and her face got so red. I asked her what was wrong, and she said, "When in Gamont, do as the Gamontians do." So I'm dating my diary differently while we're here. It'll be a nice memento.

Womanday, neSheustim 27:

I had a scare today. Went to Harem World and lost Bertha. We put costumes on — pretty things, but sheer, my goodness, you can see right through them. Little sheer pink top. Full, gathered pantaloon thing. Pretty gold belt. Hand wash, I guess, in cold water. But anyway, I think Bertha's getting upset by the excitement or something. I kept my underwear on when I put the costume on, but Bertha didn't. And I started to scold her, but she just gave me that "When on Gamont" business again.

Well, we went into the palace, and it was beautiful, I must say that for it, but a little gaudy — soft music and water splashing in fountains and men and women lolling around in little dark alcoves. Two huge men in turbans took us to reclining harem-chairs, and I guess I went to sleep. When I woke up Bertha was gone. I yelled for Ahmed and Pol and they came running from somewhere pulling their clothes on. I guess they were napping too. So we looked for Bertha through long dark hallways with men in turbans in front of the doors. They wouldn't let me in, so I just called out at each door we came to. Then we came to a door that said "Sultan's Chamber," and it was open, and inside there was Bertha, stark naked, sitting on a big red velvet pouffy cushion thing. I told the boys to shut their eyes and went in. Bertha just kept grinning, and saying, "The Sultan chose me, the Sultan chose me." I got her dressed and the boys helped me take her back to the hotel. I told Pol to stay in the room with her all day tomorrow and make sure she stayed quiet and rested.

Threesday, Jehannesdii, neSheustim 28:

After yesterday's scare and today's shock, I know I'll live forever, because if they didn't kill me, nothing will. There is a Bene Gesserit House on Gamont! Why didn't Mother Caius tell me? I think I know.

Ahmed was driving me in the carriage through the streets, and I was looking at the places — Ol' Plantation, Gay Paree — when I saw a little shop called "Ve Haf Vays" and I told Ahmed to stop. I'd been wanting to get some souvenirs for the sisters at home, and this was a leather-goods store with beautiful belts and boots in the window. Not much of a selection though — everything was black, besides there were too many buckles and straps and things. They even had whips, though why anyone would want to whip a sweet gentle creature like a thorse I don't know. Anyway, there I was in front of the store when I saw the B.G. emblem on the house on the comer. I couldn't believe my eyes. But I was so happy. I went right up to the door and knocked.

A little old sister opened the door, but she seemed surprised to see me — she said "They usually send younger ones." Then she shook her head and said "No accounting for taste" and led me into the parlor. And all over the walls of the parlor were these pictures of women. Well, I won't try to describe them, but let me tell you I recognized some. There was that nice young (and smart) Helen Mohiam, and it's beyond me why she would let them take a picture of her sun-bathing.

The head of the house (I will not call her Mother) came in, her face all painted and her eyelashes all long and black with some stuff on them. She says, "You're not one of my girls. Who are you?"

"No," I said, "I'm Sister Matilda, the head laundress from Wallach come to see your house. Who are you?”

And she said, "I'm the Procuratrix. Are you a lay sister?"

"Certainly not. I am a regularly professed sister and have been for forty years. And what, I'd like to know, is a lay sister?"

She said, "Oh, think of it as a little joke." And then she began the most garbled and incredible story I've ever heard. It seems there are three kinds of sisters — the regular ones that live in the chapter houses, and some that go into the world and marry and have families — well, I knew that — but then there are others, the lay sisters (some joke!), whose job is to infiltrate the Great Houses and let the sisterhood know what's going on.

"Aren't the women sent to the courts regular sisters?" I asked.

"Well, they are," she said, "in a manner of speaking. You know."

"No, I don't," I said.

"Well, put it this way," she said, "they serve as concubines and sometimes even wives. They come here to Gamont to learn the best ways of pleasing themselves and their royal lovers."

Maxine (that was her name) wanted to give me some brandy, but I'd never drink anything in that place. I went back to the carriage and straight to the hotel. Bertha was gone again, but I thought, she's on her own this time. I packed my things. And Bertha came back with Pol, and I said "I'm leaving." But she said, "We have so many beads left." "Do as you please," I said, "but tomorrow I'm going."

Tryitday Phyllisdii Matilda's Day, neSheustim 29:

When I checked out this morning, I just sat in the lobby. I didn't know where to go — I don't care about Eden or The Ol' Plantation or Harem World, but I don't want to go back to Wallach either. I'm not young, I know, but I'm not stupid, and I'm not sneaky, either. There are things I can do, and do well, and that ought to be enough for anybody. I won't use other people because I wouldn't want them to use me, and I won’t be a part of anything that does. I know what my duty is — I need to tell the Emperor just what's going on here — then it's his problem and I wash my hands of the matter. Pol and Ahmed are here — they flipped a coin (they said it's a local custom) and Ahmed is my guide today. So this diary goes in an envelope for the Imperial Mail. I'll have Ahmed take it there, then I'm going to take my bags and go ask for a job at one of the other places I saw. With my experience I know there’ll be something for me to do at "Suds and Bubbles."

*

[cosyefficient]

SEKTION: Your Kitchen, Your Way with IKEA

In Canada, IKEA has a few different kitchen lines, with the most popular and versatile one being called SEKTION.

SEKTION has become a staple in IKEA's kitchen offerings, known for its easy setup, flexibility, and sleek modern aesthetics. SEKTION is a modular line where the cabinet dimensions are pre-set, but the layout and functionality can be entirely tailored to your needs.

Flat-Pack to Fabulous

Hey there, design enthusiasts! Let's talk kitchen magic, shall we? IKEA's SEKTION kitchen line is where style meets flexibility. SEKTION's versatile range includes base, wall, high, and specialty cabinets, allowing homeowners to customize their kitchen layout. It offers practically endless combinations of drawers, pull-out shelves, and doors - you name it, SEKTION lets you create a combination that fits you perfectly. Cabinets come in various heights and depths, ensuring both visual appeal and ergonomic functionality.

This accent door is called HASSLARP, and it is offered in a few dimensions. It’s giving mid-century modern.

While bold colors like red or yellow aren't available, SEKTION offers timeless options such as white, navy blue, black, and various wood grains. Homeowners can choose from traditional, modern, or minimalist designs to match their overall kitchen aesthetic. This variety ensures that the kitchen reflects a unique style, and in 2023, the selection range is vast. Trust me; your dream kitchen aesthetic? It's waiting for you in SEKTION.

Here is a link to the door color selection: https://www.ikea.com/ca/en/rooms/kitchen/kitchen-door-and-drawer-front-styles-pubddda6331#all

AXSTAD in blue and white. A matte shaker door/drawer. This is more of a farm house look.

STENSUND beige. I love a neutral, nude kitchen.

Now, here's the real beauty - modularity. The units are modular, which means you can choose different-sized cabinets ranging from 12 inches wide to 36 inches wide. The modular nature of SEKTION allows for easy expansion or modification of the kitchen in the future. This modularity means your kitchen can evolve with you. You can add new interior fixtures, change doors for drawers, and update components without a major overhaul. Need more storage? More lighting? Dreaming of a different layout? Go ahead, change it up! It's a practical choice for an ever-evolving kitchen.

It's like adult LEGO for your kitchen

VOXTORP white doors with integrated handles

SEKTION offers the following widths of cabinets: 12 inches, 15 inches, 18 inches, 21 inches, 24 inches, 30 inches, and 36 inches. The base cabinets are 24 inches deep, and the wall cabinets are 15 inches deep. Wall cabinets can be in heights of 15 inches, 20 inches, 30 inches, or 40 inches. You can use these boxes anywhere, as they are attached to the wall with a railing.

VEDDINGE white door and FRÖJERED drawer front

IKEA provides all sorts of clever interior fittings that are adjustable to suit the user's needs best. This adaptability ensures efficient use of space and easy organization. IKEA's extensive collection of jars, containers, and storage solutions ensures that every inch of your kitchen is utilized effectively.

IKEA's interior organizational fittings are a game-changer in the world of kitchen design. Among their innovations, the hidden drawer in the SEKTION line stands out, providing a discreet yet highly functional storage option.

BODBYN Gray door

There is the option to add lighting under the cabinets, inside them, or inside drawers that turn on when you open them.

HEJSTA reeded glass doors, like are you kidding me???

SEKTION cabinets are designed to seamlessly integrate with appliances such as ovens, microwaves, refrigerators, and dishwashers. Some appliances can even be covered with a door that is the same as the rest of the kitchen cabinets.

Which one is the fridge?

IKEA isn’t just about fantastic designs; they've got your back when it comes to installation too. That means you can trust the same people who designed your kitchen to install it seamlessly. It can be done yourself as the process is straight forward, but I wouldn’t recommend it unless you have carpentry experience and the right tools.

VEDDINGE doors

Now, let’s talk about price. IKEA’s offering top-notch quality and style at a price point that won’t break the bank. I’ve searched high and low, and trust me, nowhere else offers this level of elegance and smart design at such competitive rates. A kitchen like the one above might cost maybe 8K with the appliances included (based on the hundreds of IKEA kitchens I have personally designed).

In a world that's all about evolving trends and modern sensibilities, SEKTION stands tall as the modern and smart choice. Whether you’re a minimalist, a maximalist, or someone in between, SEKTION is the kitchen makeover you’ve been dreaming of. IKEA is a one-stop-shop for kitchen cabinets, the dishes, the table, the furniture and installation.

Ready to transform your culinary space into a personalized haven? Explore the endless possibilities of IKEA's SEKTION kitchen with cosyefficient’s exclusive design service! Use the specialized computer software for SEKTION kitchens [IKEA SEKTION PLANNER], where you can either dive into designing yourself or opt for a hands-on experience. Schedule a one-on-one appointment with me, a qualified IKEA kitchen design professional, and let's bring your dream kitchen to life together. We'll craft a design tailored to your taste and needs, ensuring your kitchen becomes a true reflection of your style. Don't miss out on the chance to cook, dine, and entertain in a kitchen that's uniquely yours.

Contact me at cosyeficient@gmail.com or send me a message here on my website.

Render I made on the IKEA planner

Cabinets open

Elevations

Detailed item list

Floor plan

I posted a series on TikTok about how to use the planner, you can find it here: https://www.tiktok.com/@claracosyefficient

Here is the digital catalogue for 2023 SEKTION: https://www.ikea.com/ca/en/files/pdf/16/e1/16e13990/kitchen-english.pdf

ENKOPING white and brown cabinet fronts

So, there you have it, folks! Stylish, flexible, competitively priced, modern, and smart - that’s IKEA’s SEKTION for you.

All pictures taken from IKEA Canada website, ikea.ca

[angelandgypsy]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: 💥SOLD💥Jacques Marie Mage RARE 1/200 Velvet Underground Emerald “Squeeze”.

[musicinsurancecompany]

5 Tips for Shipping Woodwinds Instruments

The Woodwind family covers a wide range of devices. These include clarinets, flutes, saxophones, oboes, and bassoons. Most importantly, these are delicate works of art. Their intricate mechanisms and sensitive materials require careful handling, especially during shipping. Whether you are selling an instrument online or sending it for repairs, ensuring its safe arrival is paramount. Isn't it? Here are 5 essential tips to navigate the world of woodwind instrument shipping with confidence. Read on!

1. Prepare Your Instrument for the Journey

Disassemble (if applicable): Some woodwinds, like clarinets and bassoons, can be disassembled into smaller sections. It allows for better packaging and reduces stress on the joints. Go through your instrument manual or ask a qualified repair technician for disassembly instructions.

Swab and Clean: Remove any moisture from the instrument using a clean swab. It helps prevent mold growth and protects pads from deterioration during transit. Don't apply any lubricants; shipping companies may have restrictions on liquids.

Loosen the Reed and Ligature (clarinets and saxophones): This prevents warping and damage to these delicate components.

2. Choose the Right Packaging

Original Case: Whenever possible, use the original hard case that came with the instrument. It is designed to provide a proper fit and protection.

Packing Materials: Invest in high-quality packing materials like bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or air pillows. Use generous amounts to create a cushion around the instrument within the case. Fill any empty spaces to prevent the instrument from shifting during transport.

Double Boxing: For extra protection, consider placing the instrument case inside a larger, sturdy cardboard box. Fill the space between the boxes with more packing materials for additional shock absorption.

3. Select a Reputable Shipping Carrier

Carrier Options: Popular choices include national carriers like FedEx UPS, or the United States Postal Service (USPS) for smaller instruments. Research each carrier's specific policies for handling fragile items.

Insurance: Don't skimp on your Woodwinds insurance policy. Declare the full value of the instrument for proper coverage in case of loss or damage. Your insurance document can help you in the long term.

Tracking: Opt for a service with reliable tracking information. This allows you and the recipient to monitor the instrument's progress throughout the journey.

4. Label Clearly and Securely

Identification: Mark the package as "Fragile" and "This Side Up" on multiple sides. Include the recipient's address and your return address in a prominent location.

Insurance Documentation: Enclose a copy of the Woodwinds insurance receipt inside a waterproof pouch and tape it securely to the inside of the box, not directly on the exterior. Securing your insurance copy is crucial.

5. Consider Additional Safeguards

Climate Control (Optional): Consider climate-controlled shipping options for valuable instruments or those being shipped during extreme temperatures. This helps maintain a consistent environment and reduces the risk of cracking or warping.

Signature Confirmation: Opt for signature confirmation upon delivery. This ensures someone is present to receive the package and minimizes the risk of theft from a porch or mailbox.

Other Considerations to Keep in Mind

Inform the recipient: Let the recipient know the estimated arrival date and any specific instructions regarding unpacking or handling upon receipt.

Document the Process: Before packing, take clear pictures of the instrument from multiple angles. These can be helpful for insurance purposes if any damage occurs during shipping.

International Shipping: For international shipments, additional regulations and customs procedures may apply. Research the specific requirements of the destination country and factor them into your planning.

Restricted Materials: Be aware of any restrictions on packing materials for your chosen carrier. For example, some carriers may not allow peanuts due to allergy concerns.

Fragile Parts: If your instrument has delicate parts, like a detachable bell (saxophone) or head joint (flute), consider wrapping these components individually with extra padding.

With a little planning and these essential tips in hand, you can ship your cherished woodwind instrument with confidence, allowing it to continue its musical journey with peace of mind.

[lizseyi]

5 Christmas-Ready Selections From Our Scented Candles And Diffusers Range - Zawzor Ltd

When it comes to great festive gifts for men and women alike, you really can’t do better than scented candles and diffusers, which help to enhance almost anyone’s home experience. 

So, if you’re reading this as someone who is shopping for gifts for Christmas 2023, you might well be pleased to know about some of the excellent selections we have available through our online shopping channel right now.  

Here are just a few examples of those items, which include individual candles, as well as full-on gift sets. 

Deluxe Christmas Gift Set Lemongrass and Lime 

The Peppermint Grove brand is one that many past Zawzor shoppers will be highly familiar with, and probably greatly appreciative of. 

This deluxe set is typical of some of the brand’s gift-oriented offerings; it comes in a gorgeous gold Christmas box and contains a 50ml tube of hand and body wash, a 50ml tube of hand and body cream, a 100ml mini fragrance diffuser, and a 60mg mini soy candle. 

Jasmine Scented Candle 

For a candle that is not only gorgeously presented – in a hammered gold metal container that can be easily used for other purposes once the wax has been used up – but that is also evocative of the mysteries of the East, you really can’t better this jasmine-centred number. 

Measuring 8cm x 12cm and incorporating a lid and a tassel, the container offers up some 350ml of candle. If burned correctly, it should give your recipient around 20 hours of burn time. 

Christmas Mini Scented Candle and Diffuser Gift Set 

Again, we’re talking about Christmas gift sets, although the format is a bit different for this offering from the Moss St. brand; your recipient will get a beautiful green box with stars, containing an 80g scented candle along with a 100 ml mini room diffuser. 

This sandalwood and sea salt set will certainly infuse the home of whoever is lucky enough to be given it, with some utterly delightful smells. This is made easier to achieve by the fact that the diffuser reeds are also included in the box. 

Scented Candle Blush Peonies 

Even the gorgeous packaging of this 100g candle from Mews Collective is something of a head-turner. Much the same can be said about the ceramic pot that can be given an extended life in the recipient’s home for other purposes after they have used up the candle. 

But of course, the “star of the show” is still the candle itself, which is made from natural soy wax and lead-free cotton wicks to help achieve the utmost environmental friendliness. It can also offer as much as 25 hours of burning time, during which, the top note of bergamot will be released first, and then peony rose and cyclamen notes, and the base notes of cedar, clove, and musk. 

Scented Candle Black Orchid and Ginger 

Hand-poured in a custom-designed glass container, this candle from Peppermint Grove produces lovely top notes of ginger and cardamon from the moment it starts burning. Those are complemented by the middle notes of orchid, jasmine, and rose, while the base notes are patchouli, sandalwood, and black amber. 

All in all, it is another offering that lives up to the Peppermint Grove brand’s association with luxury and sophistication, with the burning time of up to 60 hours also likely to be very much appreciated by your eventual recipient. 

There you have it – just a sampling of our latest available scented candles and diffusers that make highly attractive gifts for men and women alike this festive season. And with delivery being free to UK customers, it is a case when you are browsing our online shopping channel of the price you see, being the price that you pay. Merry Christmas from all of us here at Zawzor! 

[creativeboxesblog]

Grab Attention with Custom Reed Diffuser Boxes in the UK

Brits are known for their appreciation of quality and aesthetics. High-quality packaging is essential for attracting customers in the UK. A well-designed Custom Reed Diffuser Boxes.

For more details on candle boxes visit us: https://bresdel.com/blogs/517230/Grab-Attention-with-Custom-Reed-Diffuser-Boxes-in-the-UK

[sethshead]

Harlan’s brief for the colorblind Constitution rested, within the text, on a belief in the inherent superiority of white Americans and the basic inferiority of their Black counterparts. “Blacks and whites could be ‘equals before the law,’” notes Hutchison, “but that did not mean they were equals in any other respect — in the social realm, racial inequality would rule ‘for all time’ if the nation remained blind to race ‘in view of the Constitution.’ ” There’s another passage in Harlan’s dissent that seems to suggest an egalitarian worldview. “In respect of civil rights, all citizens are equal before the law,” wrote Harlan. “The humblest is the peer of the most powerful. The law regards man as man and takes no account of his surroundings or of his color when his civil rights as guaranteed by the supreme law of the land are involved.” But, as Hutchison points out, this is just another statement of Harlan’s indifference to social realities as it relates to the law. “The same implication applies,” Hutchison writes, “just as people could be ‘equal before the law’ while stunningly unequal in every other respect, the law could still ‘regard man as man’ whether that man resided in a mansion or a cardboard box.” Douglas S. Reed, a professor of government at Georgetown, writes that Harlan’s dissent “rests in part on a legal formalism that forces public actors to hold reality at bay, to ignore the lived realities of inequality within the American experience, and to grasp onto a strict separation between public, legal categories and private, social standing.” It’s as if Harlan is restating, with no apparent irony, Anatole France’s quip that “the law, in its majestic equality, forbids rich and poor alike to sleep under bridges, to beg in the streets, and to steal their bread.” The law may not recognize social distinctions and material inequalities, but social distinctions and material inequalities still exist and shape the way the law is felt by both groups and individuals.

This is where the old liberal faith that equality before the law would inevitably result in equality of outcomes is proved naïve. The end of legal disabilities does not automatically level the playing field, and can leave private discrimination outside all redress. Oppressive power structures remain in place and opportunity for advancement and improvement remains out of reach to marginalized groups. Something more powerful than mere legal equality is necessary to make true equality of opportunity a reality.

This is why we have anti-discrimination laws. It's why affirmative action was so successful, and why it is still a national duty to provide for the economically disadvantaged, so that they can overcome the bars to entry constructed by law and custom to prevent their ascent through the ranks of American society.

[nylasdreams]

Hello sunshine ☀️, we have wind but also glorious sunshine for a change 😊 Yesterday I spent the day surrounded by the scent of one of my favourite perfumes. I’m very lucky that I’m able to do this but I amazed myself at just how relaxed it made me and just how much more productive I was. I was finally able to take all my jumbled notes for an upcoming new release and piece them together to create a finished piece. It still needs some fine tweaking but it’s almost there now. Coming out in the next few weeks will be: • new style boxes with 3 selection of wax melts in little jars • Reed diffuser refill bottles • 2 different styles of Reed diffuser bottles • new style of diffuser reed (flower) • 30cl candles in some amazing new scents As always, we’d like to thank our loyal customers for keeping us busy and offer a huge welcome to our new customers and followers. Onwards and upwards 🥰 www.nylas-dreams.com Etsy: nylasdreamsaromas #homefragrances #luxuriousaromas #homescents #beautifulfragrances #roomscents #shoplocalletham #love #specialboxes #smallbusinessangus #nylasdreams #handpoured #handmade #soothing #waxmelts #giftboxes #giftsets #giftvouchers #familybusiness #madewithlove #cutenessoverload #neereleases #floralreeds #newscents #newdesigns https://www.instagram.com/p/CqFhFTWKQ6G/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=