#computer programming summer camp

[wosostories]

Heath Sisters PT 8 (USWNT x Teen!Reader)

Masterlist Heath Sisters Master List

USWNT X Teen!Reader

Y/N was asleep by the time they made it back to the hotel. Instead of waking her Tobin just lifted her on to her back before grabbing their bags. 

"Do you need any help with that?" Christen asks the older girl. 

"Uh no I've got it."

"Are you sure? It's no problem." 

Tobin nods slowly, "That would be great then. Thanks." Tobin hands off one of their bags and they make their way off of the bus. 

Most of the girls head straight to the meeting room where they would eat while going over some film. Tobin grabbed a plate for Y/N before bringing it up to their room. She left Y/N to sleep on the bed with the plate of food sitting on the night stand with a note reminding her to do her school work when she woke. 

After Tobin made her way back downstairs. 

"Is the superstar not joining us?" A Rod asks as Tobin grabs her own food. 

"No she's still asleep. Then she's got some school work to take care of."

"She's on vacation and you're still making her do work? That's just cruel man." Cheney says. 

"I might agree if she was actually on vacation. She's home schooled through an online program so she can work at her own pace. She's slated to be done with high school by this time next year, but she'll probably be done before summer is over if she has her way."

"What do you mean done with high school. Isn't she just started middle school?" 

"Life would be like a million times easier if that were the case. But no my sister stole all the smarts and is a genius both on and off the pitch."

"So what's she going to do about college?" 

"Well we haven't talked too much about specifics yet. We're waiting to see where I'll get drafted. And it's a lot of work to set up for a minor to be in college, no matter how smart they are."

"Aren't you being slated to go first over all? So you'll end up in Atlanta right?"

"That's the most likely case, but…" Tobin shrugs her shoulder, "you guys know the league. Players are getting traded left and right with no say. I can't leave Y/N in a city with out me."

Before either of the others could respond their attention was brought to the front screen. 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Y/N bolts up in bed. Sweat shining on her face and her breathing heavy. She frantically looks around the room for her sister hoping that Tobin will be there to help calm her down. 

After realizing that she is not there Y/N lies back down and curls herself into a ball trying to sooth herself. 

"Its ok. You're ok Y/N. You're ok. Everything is ok. Toby's just in a meeting she'll be back soon. It's ok." 

When Y/N finally controlled her breathing she started to smell the food coming from the side table. She peeked up at it and noticed the sandwich and the note. 

"Hey kid, hope you got some rest. I'm downstairs in the meeting room if you need me, but try to eat something and get some work done. Be up later. Love ya!"

- Toby

Y/N sighs and pulls the plate into her lap. She takes a few bites before getting up to grab her school stuff. She opens one of her note books and her computer. She finishes the rest of her sand which while she waits for it to decide whether or not it wants to boot up. 

The laptop was one that Tobin had picked up second hand at a garage sale and was about 12 years old. This meant that it was hard sometimes for Y/N to get her work done if the computer decided that it did not want to work. 

When Y/N finally got logged into her course she made a plan of everything that she wanted to get done during the two weeks that she was with her sister at camp. 

Once she is done with her plan she jumps in to her math work. She isn't a fan of the complicated statistics that she has to do despite being very good at it. 

Once she finishes the two lessons she wanted to get done for the week she pulls out her battered copy of The Great Gatsby. She started on the third chapter hoping to be over halfway done by the time Tobin came back to their room. 

About an hour and a half later Y/N closes the book at the half way point. Tobin wasn't back yet, but Y/N was done doing her work for the day. 

She goes over to her backpack and pulls out another note book. This one is a little smaller and more resembles a journal. 

She flips it open to the next blank page and makes a list of every player at camp. She then writes down notes and observations about each one of them based on what she saw at the first training session. 

Tobin Heath- Needs to come in for crosses to Wambach. She is a taller player so it needs to be higher when headed. Stay wider for passes to Press, need to connect right in front of goal. 

Abby Wambach- Most goals are scored by headers. 5'11, hangs out in front/to side of goal waiting for crosses in. Big goal scorer and always has some one on her. Need to see more. 

Most of the players have a 'need to see more' note ending Y/N's observations of them. She gets through five players before the door opens and Tobin walks in. A few very loud teammates following behind her. 

"Hey kid. Get some work done?" Tobin asks ignoring the girls following her. 

"Ya." Y/N nods. "Got a few stats lessons done and got about half way through my book for english." 

"Awesome. You working on your notes now?"

"Ya there was a lot that happened at practice today and I wanted to get it down before I forgot." Y/N looks up, "What's the loud one's name again?" She points to Kelley who is standing behind Tobin.

"Kelley?"

"Ya her. I was just about to start her page. I know coach has her playing in the midfield, and she's great at it and all, but I think if we at least moved her a little bit higher on the field it would be better. I also think having her on the wing is good. She's fast and has a lot of energy so if her positioning is tweaked and we get her to have a better read of the field she can literally just appear where she is needed before the defense can catch up."

.

.

.

"Who the fuck even are you kid? Where did you come from?"

Y/N flinches a little at her tone. "I came with Toby."

"That's not what I meant."

Y/N shrugs and goes to write everything she just said down in her note book. Before she can though it is snatched out of her hands. 

"H-hey…"

"Holy shit kid! Do you have notes on every person you have ever seen play soccer?"

Tobin takes the book out of her hands and gives it back to her sister. "Kelley if you are going to hang around my sister you have to be nice and respect her stuff. If you can't I'm going to have to ask you to leave."

"Yeah Kelley be nice." A Rod says sarcastically. 

"I just wanted to see. And what if I don't want her taking notes on me?"

"Trust me Kelley you want her taking notes on you. It might seem like she takes notes on everyone, but that's not the case." Tobin explains. 

"Ok then who does she take notes on?" Chaney asks.

Tobin looks at Y/N but she simply shrugs. 

"Is there some type of criteria that needs to be met or something?" 

Y/N shakes her head. "No… well kinda I guess. It's just a feeling I get. When something or someone might be important. So I write it down. It's kind of different right now though. I'm taking notes on all of you cause you're my sisters teammates, so I guess that automatically makes you important. No feeling needed."

Kelley wraps her arm around the kids neck, "So you think I'm important. Hear that guys? Wonder kid said I'm important."

"She thinks we're all important." A Rod says. 

They continue to bicker between the three of them. They are so caught up that none of them notice that Y/N stopped breathing the moment Kelley put her arm on her. 

She squeezed her eyes shut and tried to keep herself as still as possible. 

"Kelley! Kelley can you not?" Tobin tried, but her teammate was not listening. Once realizing that the other girl was not going to listen Tobin resorted to pulling her arm off of Y/N. She then pushed all three of the girls out of the room angrily before slamming the door in their faces.

[deposedefenddeny]

A former co-worker of Luigi Mangione at the Stanford pre-collegiate studies program and a former student remembered Mangione as caring and outgoing when they met him, then a head counselor of the program, in 2019. A University spokesperson previously confirmed to The Daily that Mangione was employed as a head counselor for Stanford’s Pre-Collegiate Studies Program between May and September of 2019. The Daily also reviewed a Stanford Pre-College Studies spreadsheet that listed Mangione as living in the Kappa Alpha (KA) house that year. The program offers academic courses to high school students from around the world, both on Stanford’s campus and online. Mangione’s LinkedIn profile states that he “designed lesson plans and taught artificial intelligence to gifted high school students” and “led a 7-member residential staff” as an employee. A former student of the program who lived in KA with Mangione told The Daily they had a positive relationship. “[Mangione] was just a very good summer camp counselor,” he said. “He was very easygoing. Everyone, as far as I could tell, got along with him. He was funny, a very chill guy.” The former student, who requested anonymity due to concerns about online harassment, estimated that around 50 people lived in KA that summer, including students and staff. The former student said that during a hike for the program, he had a two hour conversation with him about computer science and early career advice. “He took the time to do that, to really talk to me as I was starting to think about what I wanted to study in college,” the former student said. “The way that I felt was, this is a guy who just inherently cares about others.” Summarizing his relationship with Mangione, the former student said he was “our cool counselor who was in a frat that we would have conversations with.” A former program staff member who worked in the Enchanted Broccoli Forest (EBF) house that summer shared a similar impression of Mangione with The Daily. “He was very friendly, very outgoing. The other staff members liked him. The high school kids liked him.” The former staff member requested anonymity because of concerns about online harassment. After rereading old staff group chats from 2019, the former staff member observed that Mangione was “always the one organizing staff volleyball games.” He added that Mangione organized a trip to Big Sur among the counselors and was “one of the community builders within the group.” For both the former staff member and student, the announcement that Mangione was a person of interest in the shooting came as a shock. “Of all the people I’ve known in my life, he would not have been in my top 10,000 guesses,” the former staff member said. “It feels like a fever dream,” the former student said.

Stanford Daily on Jan 7, 4:02 a.m. ET

[zoesblogsposts]

o 625 words to know in your target language o

There is a really interesting blog called "Fluent Forever" that aids foreign language learners in tricks, tips and techniques to guide them to achieving fluency "quickly" and efficiently. One of the tricks is to learn these 625 vocab words in your target language, that way you have a basis to start delving into grammar with ease as you can understand a lot of vocab right off the bat. Plus this list of words are common across the world and will aid you in whatever language you are learning. Here is the list in thematic order

• Animal: dog, cat, fish, bird, cow, pig, mouse, horse, wing, animal

• Transportation: train, plane, car, truck, bicycle, bus, boat, ship, tire, gasoline, engine, (train) ticket, transportation

• Location: city, house, apartment, street/road, airport, train station, bridge hotel, restaurant, farm, court, school, office, room, town, university, club, bar, park, camp, store/shop, theater, library, hospital, church, market, country (USA,

France, etc.), building, ground, space (outer space), bank, location

• Clothing: hat, dress, suit, skirt, shirt, T-shirt, pants, shoes, pocket, coat, stain, clothing

• Color: red, green, blue (light/dark), yellow, brown, pink, orange, black, white, gray, color

• People: son, daughter, mother, father, parent (= mother/father), baby, man, woman, brother, sister, family, grandfather, grandmother, husband, wife, king, queen, president, neighbor, boy, girl, child (= boy/girl), adult (= man/woman), human (# animal), friend (Add a friend's name), victim, player, fan, crowd, person

• Job: Teacher, student, lawyer, doctor, patient, waiter, secretary, priest, police, army, soldier, artist, author, manager, reporter, actor, job

• Society: religion, heaven, hell, death, medicine, money, dollar, bill, marriage, wedding, team, race (ethnicity), sex (the act), sex (gender), murder, prison, technology, energy, war, peace, attack, election, magazine, newspaper, poison, gun, sport, race (sport), exercise, ball, game, price, contract, drug, sign, science, God

• Art. band, song, instrument (musical), music, movie, art

• Beverages: coffee, tea, wine, beer, juice, water, milk, beverage

• Food: egg, cheese, bread, soup, cake, chicken, pork, beef, apple, banana orange, lemon, corn, rice, oil, seed, knife, spoon, fork, plate, cup, breakfast, lunch, dinner, sugar, salt, bottle, food

• Home: table, chair, bed, dream, window, door, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, pencil, pen, photograph, soap, book, page, key, paint, letter, note, wall, paper, floor, ceiling, roof, pool, lock, telephone, garden, yard, needle, bag, box, gift, card, ring, tool

• Electronics: clock, lamp, fan, cell phone, network, computer, program (computer), laptop, screen, camera, television, radio

• Body: head, neck, face, beard, hair, eye, mouth, lip, nose, tooth, ear, tear (drop), tongue, back, toe, finger, foot, hand, leg, arm, shoulder, heart, blood, brain, knee, sweat, disease, bone, voice, skin, body

• Nature: sea, ocean, river, mountain, rain, snow, tree, sun, moon, world, Earth, forest, sky, plant, wind, soil/earth, flower, valley, root, lake, star, grass, leaf, air, sand, beach, wave, fire, ice, island, hill, heat, nature

• Materials: glass, metal, plastic, wood, stone, diamond, clay, dust, gold, copper, silver, material

• Math/Measurements: meter, centimeter, kilogram, inch, foot, pound, half, circle, square, temperature, date, weight, edge, corner

• Misc Nouns: map, dot, consonant, vowel, light, sound, yes, no, piece, pain, injury, hole, image, pattern, noun, verb, adjective

• Directions: top, bottom, side, front, back, outside, inside, up, down, left, right, straight, north, south, east, west, direction

• Seasons: Summer, Spring, Winter, Fall, season

• Numbers: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 21, 22, 30, 31, 32, 40, 41, 42, 50, 51, 52, 60, 61, 62, 70, 71, 72, 80, 81, 82, 90, 91, 92, 100, 101, 102, 110, 111, 1000, 1001, 10000, 100000, million, billion, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, number

• Months: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December

• Days of the week: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday

• Time: year, month, week, day, hour, minute, second, morning, afternoon, evening, night, time

• Verbs: work, play, walk, run, drive, fly, swim, go, stop, follow, think, speak/say, eat, drink, kill, die, smile, laugh, cry, buy, pay, sell, shoot(a gun), learn, jump, smell, hear (a sound), listen (music), taste, touch, see (a bird), watch (TV), kiss, burn, melt, dig, explode, sit, stand, love, pass by, cut, fight, lie down, dance, sleep, wake up, sing, count, marry, pray, win, lose, mix/stir, bend, wash, cook, open, close, write, call, turn, build, teach, grow, draw, feed, catch, throw, clean, find, fall, push, pull, carry, break, wear, hang, shake, sign, beat, lift

• Adjectives: long, short (long), tall, short (vs tall), wide, narrow, big/large, small/little, slow, fast, hot, cold, warm, cool, new, old (new), young, old (young), weak, dead, alive, heavy, light (heavy), dark, light (dark), nuclear, famous

[communistkenobi]

also like this is not a defence of parents but I think “and these are kids whose parents thought they were tech literate enough to sign them up for a programming class” is very silly because I think it’s pretty easy to forget how much of using a computer is a skill you need to learn. I remember when I was a camp counselor for a summer I had to teach kids how to use scissors and it was a wild experience because I forgot using scissors was a skill you needed to learn. and in the same way when teaching I was not aware I needed to teach students what file pathways were because it was an invisible assumed skill I wasn’t aware other people didn’t have, but I wasn’t like oh christ kids these days and their freaking ipads…. I just like taught them what a file pathway was lol. and then after getting used to windows file explorer after a couple weeks they knew what it was. ta da

[crowyaoi]

god i’m trying to have a conversation with my dad where i’m trying to respond positively to what he’s saying and he makes it REALLY hard

so for context: i am 21, autistic, a gamer, a computer science student, and have adhd. i have some amount of social anxiety (not terrible) but it does make going out and talking to people uncomfortable.

my dad is a boomer. he works as a government contractor and works as either software engineer (explain things to the customer) or architect. when he has spare time, he does plays the piano, fixes things around the house, and goes camping. i personally don’t find joy in those activities and don’t comment on them.

it is summer, and my parents have been pushing me for the last month to find a job. i don’t really get why, but i see a reason i could use one — not having something to do every day other than recreation can put me into a depressive mood swing.

now that college is out for the summer, i am being ridden even harder than before to find a job. my dad wants me to spend 8 hours a day finding a job or working at a job. i’m trying to understand why he wants that, since as long as it’s a reason i see some logic behind i’m willing to consider it, but even asking him directly why i need one leaves no response other than a circular argument or “you not having one causes me distress”

our most recent interaction went sideways as well. he came into my room asking me while i was gaming and started asking me about a job while i was in voice. i put the game aside since i wasn’t actively doing anything in it at the moment and was at a good point to get off anyways, and left the voice chat shortly thereafter as i could tell things were getting a little tense.

he asks me if i have looked for a job today. no, i respond, i haven’t, but i can check my email for suggested positions, since indeed had recently promoted positions i would actually like to work in. he then asks me to spend the rest of the day getting a job, going out and such.

backtracking a little. i had, over the weekend prior, sent him a document of “common, healthy behaviors of people with autism” that i had found on here. he responded with something that sounded as if he had read it. great! i thought, this might lead to us being able to better understand each other!

we now return to our regularly scheduled programming of a number of uncomfortable expectations, including:

a sudden change in how i spend half of my day to an activity that i find to be mentally taxing and socially draining

compliance with an expectation for which the basis remains inadequately explained

respect for a particularly narrow scope of what said activities i can spend my day on

returning to the end of our first conversation. this went well, as far as i could tell, and i decided to spend some time preparing things for an interview for a job i am strongly hoping i can get. i am working on something adjacent to this when he returns and starts looking for me.

he asks what i’m doing. i tell him i’m preparing for an interview tomorrow. he asks when said job would start should i get hired, and i tell him i’d expect it to formally start after about 2 weeks, where i would get training in the position. he looks… disappointed.

i tell him i’m uncomfortable with going out and talking to people to look for a job and propose some other activities i could do. i could do volunteering, i could do coding exercises, i could teach myself math.

he tells me to get a job, but opens the option of going to the gym.

i’m confused, but i do see something there. i ask for assistance in developing an exercise routine, since i wouldn’t really know what to do at the gym, as i don’t regularly work out. he then closes the option for going to the gym.

what the hell am i supposed to do? i have a fantastic job lined up with an interview TOMORROW and he shows no sign that he understands i might actually have a position. how am i supposed to meet his standard while also not putting myself in a situation where i feel i’m at risk?

food service is off the table — i’ve worked in food service before, but had a bad experience at my last job there. my therapist helped me silo it from affecting jobs as a whole into just food service, so i don’t want to open that can of worms.

i’m also opting out of retail, since a lot of retail environments have a number of high stress scenarios id be likely to get into. i do not have the best stress response and end up basing a significant amount of my self worth on personal goals and have high standards for myself, so it spells a recipe for a bad time.

that leaves entertainment, for which i have applied to a number of positions for. the one which got back to me was for custodial duties — the exact thing i had a bad time with back at my old job. ended up passing on it once i realized that was what the position was.

and then there’s the position of camp counselor. i’ve applied to what feels like every camp in my area, and gotten results from the one i was really hoping for, and that interview is tomorrow. but what do i do if things don’t work out, or they do, but not for a week or two? do i just avoid him?

[simpanda27]

Sims 4 Business and Hobbies Legacy Challenge

Hey everyone! I've whipped up something truly special—a legacy challenge that mixes business flair with colorful, creative hobbies, forming a dazzling tapestry of ambition and fun. Welcome to my Sims 4 Business and Hobbies 10 Generation Challenge! Picture an adventure where each generation sprinkles a bit of magic on everyday hobbies, turning them into booming business ventures. Every chapter builds on past wins and quirky lessons, opening a fresh canvas where you can paint your boldest dreams and set sparkling new goals. I even threw in a handy checklist to keep you shining on track!

Join me as we dive into the ever-evolving world of digital entrepreneurship and heart-fueled passion projects, crafting a vibrant saga of growth, reinvention, and pure joy that spans generations. Let’s make this journey as colorful and unforgettable as a burst of confetti on a summer day!

If you jump in on the fun, please tag me @Simpanda_27—I'd love to see your stories, photos, or even just a glimpse of your Sims in action! #BH10G

Here’s your ultimate Sims 4 Business & Hobbies 10 Generation Challenge Checklist—a roadmap to legacy greatness! Tick off each goal as your Sims climb their way to success and leave behind an unforgettable empire.

🧵 Generation 1: The Homemade Hustler

⬜ Sell 20+ handmade items (Plopsy or retail) ⬜ Create a cozy craft room filled with creative energy ⬜ Earn §25k through hobbies only (no traditional jobs!) ⬜ Max Handiness, Knitting, or Painting skills ⬜ Complete Master Maker or Painter Extraordinaire aspiration

🧁 Generation 2: Baked to Perfection

⬜ Own a bakery or sell baked goods at a market ⬜ Earn §30k through food sales—make those treats irresistible! ⬜ Reach Gold status in 5 social events (think cake tastings & brunch parties) ⬜ Max Baking and Cooking skills ⬜ Complete Master Chef aspiration

🎸 Generation 3: Music Mogul

⬜ Write & license 3+ songs—make your Sims a hitmaker! ⬜ Perform live in public 10+ times ⬜ Marry another creative Sim (music + art = power couple!) ⬜ Max Guitar or Violin & Charisma skills ⬜ Complete Musical Genius aspiration

💅 Generation 4: Beauty Boss

⬜ Gain 3+ high-reputation clients—become the go-to stylist! ⬜ Host 5 makeover or fashion events ⬜ Build a stylish home studio for glam transformations ⬜ Max Photography and Charisma skills ⬜ Complete World-Famous Celebrity or similar aspiration

🔮 Generation 5: Curious Creator

⬜ Invent & sell potions or gadgets—genius at work! ⬜ Visit Sixam or Magic Realm (because science & magic DO mix) ⬜ Earn §15k from inventions or potions ⬜ Max Logic and Handiness or Alchemy skills ⬜ Complete Nerd Brain or Purveyor of Potions aspiration

📚 Generation 6: Bookish Boss

⬜ Publish 10+ books—leave behind a literary legacy! ⬜ Earn royalties from 5+ books ⬜ Write a children’s book for the next heir ⬜ Max Writing and Research & Debate skills ⬜ Complete Bestselling Author aspiration

🎮 Generation 7: Digital Dreamer

⬜ Create a mobile app or game—future tech genius! ⬜ Stream regularly or reach Tech Guru career top ⬜ Build a high-end gaming room with the best gear ⬜ Max Programming and Video Gaming skills ⬜ Complete Computer Whiz aspiration

🌻 Generation 8: Green Thumb Tycoon

⬜ Grow perfect-quality produce—farm-to-table excellence! ⬜ Win a Finchwick Fair (if applicable) ⬜ Earn §20k from farming/gardening ⬜ Max Gardening and Flower Arranging skills ⬜ Complete Freelance Botanist aspiration

🏋️ Generation 9: Fitpreneur

⬜ Train 5 Sims—be the ultimate fitness guru! ⬜ Host 3 fitness or wellness events ⬜ Build a gym worth §10k+—time for boot camp! ⬜ Max Fitness and Wellness skills ⬜ Complete Bodybuilder or Zen Guru aspiration

🏛️ Generation 10: Legacy CEO

⬜ Reach §500,000 net worth—build that empire! ⬜ Own & manage 2 businesses ⬜ Complete a family legacy photo wall/book to document success ⬜ Max Charisma, Logic + 1 other skill ⬜ Complete Fabulously Wealthy or Mansion Baron aspiration

🏆 Will your Sims rise to the challenge or crumble under the pressure? Keep track, have fun, and let the legacy unfold! 💫

If you play, tag @Simpanda_27—I’d LOVE to see your Sims in action! #BH10G #Sims4Legacy #BusinessBoss #HobbyHeroes

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1agIMLDRqKz1ZJOxuSSbwbgdvKYnee7y8muOtPjYgRp8/edit?usp=sharing

[ratsoh-writes]

https://www.tumblr.com/ratsoh-writes/756930290734301184/httpswwwtumblrcomratsoh-writes75693017531537

The school had many things such as:

-Drama

-Art

-Band & Choir

-Sports (track, basketball, soccer, cheerleading, gymnastics, etc)

-They also had a travel club, where you could go to places like Puerto Rico

-Their own summer camp (very fun, possibly haunted (When I was there, some girls were screaming about seeing skin walkers there)

-They also had a swim team and a computer coding one

-There was a program where you could take college classes in Highschool, so you’d already have two years of your bachelor’s degree done by the time you went to college

And more! Perks of wealth!

Ooo the travel club is different for sure. We have all the other stuff at the public school I went to though. Although all our sports except football sucked. No budget

[archiveofkloss]

Wellness is important to Karlie Kloss: as a spokeswoman for Adidas and an investor in the tech company Therabody, the supermodel has been a longtime advocate of self-care. Now, she’s hopping on the supplement craze as the face of Thorne’s new Find Your Way campaign.

Kloss appears in stills and video spots promoting the brand’s line of science-driven products. Here, she speaks with WWD about the campaign and how supplements are a key component of her wellness routine.

WWD: Where did your interest in wellness originate both as an investor and as a consumer?

Karlie Kloss: As an investor, I look at it through the lens of ‘How can I invest in something that’s better for you or for the planet?’ That has certainly been a framework that I think about. My dad is a doctor, so I think I’ve always loved the science lens on wellness. That’s a huge part of why I have so much respect and admiration for the Thorne brand, because it’s really the highest integrity ingredients. I’m also a super curious person. I love learning about new products, especially things that are trying to help people live healthier, better lives.

WWD: How did supplements become part of your wellness routine?

K.K.: I was first introduced to Thorne through a nutritionist I worked with years ago because I was feeling super depleted. That really set me on a path of learning about nutrition as a whole. It’s not about how I look at all, it’s really about how I feel and how I can bring energy to all that I’m doing, whether it’s the people in my life that I’m taking care of or just having energy to exercise so that I can push myself to keep getting stronger. It’s really a practice of self-care.

WWD: Which Thorne supplements do you use?

K.K.: Thorne has two products that are really special called Memoractiv and PharmaGABA. Those are in my rotation and at night I always take magnesium. They have a really great Magnesium Bisglycinate, which is really great to calm down before bed.

WWD: How do you feel these supplements benefit you?

K.K.: The Memoractiv is really special because improves your brain function and eye health and has a bunch of wonderful ingredients in it, including ashwagandha. That one I feel is a great energy pick me up, it has a little caffeine in it too, so I’m careful not to take it too late in the day. I also always have Thorne’s Prebiotic disks in my bag or whenever I’m traveling. It’s a tiny little pouch that you just pour into a glass of water. It’s delicious and it’s a super easy health hack. All of us have so much that we’re juggling every single day, so the more seamless and high impact your products can be, the better, and that’s certainly what I look for as a consumer, as an investor and as a mom as well.

WWD: Your Kode With Klossy camp is briefly featured in the Thorne campaign. How does it feel knowing that the program celebrates its ninth anniversary in 2024?

K.K.: It’s surreal. We’ve had more than 10,000 young women and gender expansive teens in our programs over the past nine years. We have 3,000 young people in our in our classrooms this summer. We have camps across the country and around the world and we have students from more than 90 countries in our classrooms. 78% of our alumni who are in college go on to major or minor in computer science. [Kode With Klossy] reaches them at a formative moment in life where they’re making decisions that influence their careers and they’re seeing the opportunities that could be possible for them. It makes me so proud to see our community continue to grow in so many ways.

[spacefinch]

Okay, how would a camping trip for the MSB kids go like (include Mikey in there)?

First: We are assuming this is after A) the Marshmallow Incident referenced in "Getting Energized", B) the Ferris Wheel Incident (AKA the entire episode of "Getting Energized), and C), the Computer Incident* (AKA the events of "Gets Programmed.")

*Caveat: This "computer incident" is actually one of many.

Second: Since Mikey is joining the MSB gang for a camping trip, we are also assuming that the campsite is wheelchair-accessible.

Third: We are also to assume that this camping trip takes place during the summer. Therefore, this is not a Field Trip (TM). However, the chances of seeing Ms. Frizzle or any of her friends are not zero.

Without further ado, here are my headcanons:

Getting to the campground:

Mr. Ramon drives Carlos, Mikey, D.A., Tim, and Wanda to the campground in the family station wagon. (The station wagon would normally be big enough to fit nine kids and a driver, but it is not big enough to fit nine kids (one of whom uses a wheelchair), a driver, AND everyone's camping supplies, and still leave enough room for the driver to see out the back windshield.)

Dr. Tennelli drives the other kids (Phoebe, Ralphie, Keesha, and Arnold) to the same campground in her van.

The two different car parties keep in touch with each other via text and walkie-talkie. They also play such car games as Twenty Questions, Punch Buggy, and Rubberneckers. (If you haven't already, look up the Rubberneckers card game. My family has it and it's really fun.)

Setting up the tents:

Phoebe and Ralphie are expert tent-pitchers, since they go on a camping trip every summer.

Carlos and Mikey are pretty good at pitching their family's tent, but they still have a lot to learn. (Note: their mom and sister are having a girls' weekend at home).

Wanda would like everyone to believe she is good at setting up a tent. This is not true in the slightest.

Activities:

Everyone does some birdwatching, but Phoebe and D.A. enjoy it the most. There are blue jays, ravens, woodpeckers, eastern phoebes, wrens, hermit thrushes, and all kinds of other birds. At night, the kids even hear a few different kinds of owls!

Ralphie brings his Frisbee and his baseball stuff. The Frisbee lands in a poison ivy bush and is thus declared gone for good.

Since the crew is camping near a lake or river, I imagine they would go canoeing or fishing. Mikey is actually pretty good at catching fish. He also does use the built-in raft on his wheelchair to go out on the lake to get a closer look at a kingfisher.

Hiking. In which everyone goes for a different reason. Arnold goes to collect rocks, Phoebe goes to watch birds, Ralphie takes his camera along to document every second of it, Tim brings his sketchbook to do some field journaling, etc...

The kids also play hide and seek. Wanda's small size gives her the upper hand when hiding.

Night:

The kids eat the fish that Mikey and Ralphie caught, along with roast hot dogs and fresh blackberries. (Phoebe, Keesha, and Carlos picked the blackberries and they have the scratches to show it.)

After the Marshmallow Incident, Mr. Ramon has forbidden his sons from bringing the "Sear-Em-and-Sizzle-Em Marshmallow Smoker" on any more camping trips. This means Carlos and Mikey have to roast marshmallows the old-fashioned way. They are terrible at it.

Will eat a burnt-to-a-crisp marshmallow: Mr. Ramon

Will not eat a burnt-to-a-crisp marshmallow: Everyone else

Since this is the eastern half of the US during the summer, there are fireflies. Keesha tells the whole gang some fun firefly facts (she's the resident bug expert).

I am not sure how many tents there are, or how exactly it's divided. But there is definitely more than one.

Stargazing.

Notable incidents:

The Raccoon Incident. Someone forgot to properly seal away the food on the first night.

Tim got separated from the hiking party. As soon as they realized he was lost, Carlos, Mikey, and Phoebe searched all over for him... only to find Tim just chilling in a pine tree.

Blue jays were also frequent camp thieves.

Other notes:

Mikey brings several of his new inventions for field testing. Carlos is the (usually) willing test subject.

Stone-skipping is a popular lakeside activity.

Wanda brings her scuba gear. The scuba gear does not see much use, but she does use the wetsuit for swimming.

The kids take turns telling ghost stories around the campfire. Most of them actually tell scary stories, but then there's Carlos. (See below)

Carlos's story: Once upon a time, there were three hunters, each of whom thought they were the best. So they decided to have a contest to settle it. On the day of the contest, the judge told the hunters, "Each of you must go in a different direction and catch something. Whoever brings back the biggest animal wins the contest." And so off they went. A few hours later, the first hunter brought back a deer. "Whoa, how did you get that?" asked the judge. "Easy," said the first hunter. "I saw tracks, I followed tracks, I caught the deer." The second hunter came back with a bear. "That's a huge bear!" exclaimed the judge. "How did you catch it?" "I saw tracks, I followed tracks, I caught the bear," the second hunter said. The third hunter didn't come back for a very, very long time. When he did arrive, he arrived bruised and bloody and with multiple broken bones. "Goodness! What happened to you?!" the judge asked, shocked. To this question, the third hunter answered, "I saw tracks, I followed tracks..... I got hit by a train."

The entire class after hearing the above story: CARLOS!!!!!!

[pbandjesse]

It was wildly windy today. Scary at times! But it wasn't a terrible day. I was just very tired.

I fell asleep easier last night but waking up was very tough. I let myself sleep in until 730. And I left late but it was okay. I was moving really slowly. James was getting ready to go for a bike ride and I gave them a big hug but I really didn't want to leave so I didn't let myself wait for them to leave with me and left as soon as I was ready.

My lip is much more swollen but doesn't hurt as bad. Keeping it covered is helping and I found cutting a fabric bandaid seems to be the best way to cover it right now. Eating with a bandaid on my lip is impossible but I didn't have to change it as many times so I'm happy about that.

The ride in was fine but the wind was very strong. I didn't notice but Alexi had texted us that schools were opening two hours late so she would be in later. So that meant everyone came in later. Except me because I didn't notice it. Ah well.

I got to camp and had my bagel and read for a while. Jess asked me to make a ride wish list for Disney. So I did some research and figured out what rides I would like to try for. I'm not a big rides person but there are a few boat based ones I think I will enjoy. And it was fun looking into everything and the possibilities.

We are changing the order of the parks because the travel agent has been kind of useless and didn't tell us that Magic Kingdom is closing early the day were planning on going so now we are probably ending the week with Magic Kingdom instead of starting it. That's okay. I'm just excited to go with Jess.

Eventually people started coming in. And I was given a few small tasks. But I also just spent time reading and doing little things in the computer.

Heather trained me and Sarah on the camp registration website and how to see the wait-list and so because we could do that we could start helping to answer emails from parents. It turns out registering can be a little confusing so I made a reference sheet for parents with a step by step guide and hopefully it will help.

Celia came in to talk to Alexi. And it was nice to see her. I would have my lunch and went for a little walk. I was surprised that there were more downed trees from the storm but the ground was very very soft. It was nice walking around even if it was still to windy.

Nurse Joan came in today and I was able to give her the Christmas gift I had for her. She was very excited about the tiny "Nurse Quaktitioner" I had for her. Made her laugh really big. Love Nurse Joan.

I also have her and Nurse Becky some vintage maps of camp for them to decorate the infirmary once it's fixed up. I was happy to help.

We would have a big meeting about the counselor in training program this afternoon. Where we are trying to sort things out for when the contractor John comes next week. I was glad I had made all the different documents that I printed last week because I swear no one else really has anything ready. Like there were ideas and catching up and getting on the same page but I had actual programs and documents. I felt very ready. Which was nice. It's hard though when I say well I do this... Talking about specialty stuff for the summer and Alexi goes but you are so on top of things and preplan and prep! And I'm like yes. But everyone should be living up to my standards!!! Plus I've done a lot of the planning for the other specialties.

I would have some new ideas for our counciler in training program though. Including making a quiz to figure out what you would best be suited for. Which was fun to make and then I made everyone in the office take it to see if they got placed in different things and it worked really well honestly. Not perfect and I'm sure I'll change the questions a bit but I think creating a personality test for the job is a fun way to help figure out where each kid can go.

I had a few more things to make today. Including a staff survey about your favorite things. I tried to make it more interesting then just what's your favorite color. And it lead to a really nice conversation about what snacks would make our day better. I said a cinnamon soft pretzel. Heather said sushi! I was very surprised and that's why I thought it was a good question! I learned something about her. And we got to talk about the best pretzels we've ever had and that lead to more stories and that is the whole point. To learn more about each other on a deeper level.

I got ready to go right around 4. And I was so stupid tired. It hit me all of a sudden and driving home sucked. It didn't help that people were driving stupid. But despite others best efforts I made it home in one piece.

When I parked a nice man was walking on the sidewalks and we had a nice conversation about the weather. And it put me in a really nice mood.

But this did not last long. I got up here and immediately got overstimulated because there is just stuff everywhere. I tried to start moving stuff but I was just very very overwhelmed and didn't know what to do and then I found my cup in the dishwasher that I have asked a few times not to be put in there and I just absolutely melted down. I felt so tired and so upset. I texted James a million times explaining why I am upset. But I just felt very low.

I have basically been in bed since then. I am exhausted. I did go have some cereal but I may go eat something more substantial. James had the extended hours at the museum tonight so they should be home in another hour or so. And hopefully I can sleep faster and feel better tomorrow.

I hope the wind dies down. And I hope tomorrow is beautiful. Sleep well everyone. Until next time.

[quickdeaths]

🌸 If you get this, answer with 3 random facts about yourself and send it to the last 7 blogs in your notifications, anonymously or not! Let's get to know the person behind the blog. 🌸

I don't do chain asks, but thank you! I had to think up more facts, oh dear.

In the past, I've been an English teacher, a computer skills instructor, the director of a small summer camp program, a movie theater worker, and a freelance writer doing listicle/top 10 style content, and somewhat more substantive media analysis/essay style content. I got my Master's Degree last year but I don't really know what my future looks like, career-wise. Dream job, though, I'd really like to be a full-time writer, whether that's doing essays, or writing novels, or being a journalist.

I don't have any pets at my apartment because $$$, but I'm a cat person for sure. My parents have a beautiful little orange lad named Theo and I miss him very much. I'm housesitting for my parents this fall so they don't have to board him, and I'm always happy to see his cute little face.

I was in a band in high school. I had a friend who was a great singer looking for more musical outlets outside of performing in musicals, and I was a really shitty guitar player who was just happy to be there hahaha. In addition to talent shows, our school did an Unplugged show twice a year in our school library for a very chill, intimate-type vibe for student musicians doing piano or singing or acoustic guitar music or whatever. We performed at both shows one year as a duo, with him singing and me playing guitar. I know we did Space Oddity by David Bowie at our first performance, and I thiiiiink we did The Passenger by Iggy Pop at the second one. We had a couple other songs we knew how to do, too (I remember learning the acoustic version of Everlong by Foo Fighters and it taking me forever to get it down) but never ended up performing. We broke up because we both got busy and because I really was a pretty bad guitarist who took forever to learn new songs.

[ofteasandinks]

Go to the Library!

Friendly reminder that libraries offer a ton besides books, especially in the summer.

Library Cards (with a rare exception) are free. There are no membership fees.

With a library card, you can get FREE access to things like:

Books (obviously)

Ebooks (apps like Libby and Hoopla)

Magazines (both online and the shiny shiny flip through ones)

Streaming Services (my library has 3 for example)

Hotspots aka portable Wifi (great for camping or if you missed an internet payment and need to stay online)

Tickets to the zoo

Tickets to children's museums

Tickets to ball games, etc.

Without a library card (or with), at most libraries anyway, you can also get access to:

Computers

A Free Space to Exist Without Expectation of Your Spending Money (Transit people are welcome)

Kid Storytimes

Craft and Skill Classes

Cooking Programs

Movie Nights

Book Clubs

Game Nights

"Rental" Rooms you to gather with friends and watch movies/play board games/ study together

Tech help

(If you happen to be dealing with food insecurity, a lot of libraries, especially low income/rural area libraries, try to include food in their programs when they can.)

Some libraries also offer (at low fees or limited free amounts)

Printing/Scanning/Faxing services

3D printer access

Use of Cricuts or other fun crafting tech

[alphastaracademy]

Summer camp - Crafted to nurture curiosity and foster a lifelong love for learning

In today's rapidly evolving digital age, understanding the foundations of mathematics, computer science (CS), and artificial intelligence (AI) has become more important than ever. As technology continues to transform our world, it is crucial to equip the next generation with the tools and knowledge to thrive in this new landscape. That’s where an interactive Math CS and AI camp for kids enter - exciting, engaging, and educational environments where young learners dive deep into the core concepts of modern science and technology, all while having fun. These camps are carefully crafted to nurture curiosity and foster a lifelong love for learning. 

Bringing Mathematics to Life

Math can often feel abstract or dull when taught in a traditional classroom setting. But at a Math, CS, and AI camp, math becomes interactive and applicable. Instead of simply memorizing formulas or working through textbooks, children engage in real-world problem-solving scenarios. From building geometric structures to calculating probabilities in game theory, students see the practical use of mathematical principles in action.

These experiences not only reinforce academic skills but also boost confidence and critical thinking. Kids begin to understand that math isn’t just about numbers; it’s a universal language that can help solve everyday problems and create innovative solutions.

Exploring Computer Science Through Creativity

Computer science is another key focus of these camps. Learning to code is akin to learning a new language - one that empowers students to build websites, develop games, and create digital art. Camps typically introduce programming through child-friendly languages like Scratch or Python, which balance complexity with accessibility.

By starting early, children gain a strong foundation in logic, structure, and problem-solving. They learn how to break down complex tasks into manageable steps, collaborate on coding projects, and debug programs when things go wrong. These are essential skills not just for future tech careers, but for life.

Moreover, the creative freedom that comes with coding encourages innovation. Kids can see their ideas come to life, which fosters both pride and perseverance. Whether designing an animation or a simple mobile app, the possibilities are endless - and so is the excitement.

Demystifying Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence may sound intimidating, but when introduced in a simplified, age-appropriate manner, it becomes an intriguing area of discovery. Camps focused on AI help students understand the basics behind this transformative technology. They explore how machines can learn, make decisions, and even recognize patterns.

Using fun tools and platforms, students might train a basic chatbot, explore image recognition, or simulate decision-making scenarios. These activities lay the groundwork for understanding more advanced concepts later on, like machine learning and data science.

More importantly, kids learn not just how AI works, but also how to think ethically about its use. They discuss questions like, “Should robots make decisions for humans?” or “How can AI help people?” Such discussions encourage responsible thinking and digital citizenship from a young age.

Fostering Social Skills and Teamwork

One often overlooked benefit of these camps is the development of social skills. Campers work in teams, share ideas, and present their projects to others. They learn to listen, collaborate, and communicate effectively - all vital skills for academic and professional success.

In a supportive environment filled with peers who share similar interests, children build friendships and confidence. The camp atmosphere fosters a sense of community, where learning is both individual and collective.

Final ThoughtsAn Interactive Math CS and AI camp for kids is more than just an educational program but also a transformative experience. Through engaging activities, real-world applications, and creative exploration, these camps help children see themselves not just as students, but as future innovators and problem-solvers.

[ahhvernin]

I use to have to help people navigate a summer camp registration page for this youth program every summer. My desk was next to IT and one of the guys said "damn youre so patient with the parents and grandparents. How are you able to do it?"

I just smiled and said, "I just have to remember that someone like you came to my house and had to teach me the 8 year old how to work the computer from scratch because i was the only one who knew how to speak English....besides....I've had to translate and explain things to older people since kindy. Its second nature to me. If i had more computer knowledge I think I'd do well in IT help. That and I just remind myself i don't know my way around Apple computers....imagine how lost I'll be in 20 years."

Me: “How can I help you today, ma'am?” Client: “Is e-mail internet”? Me: “I beg your pardon?” Client: “Is e-mail on the internet? I have no internet, can I still read my e-mail?” Me: “Well yes, you must be able to get online to view your e-mail.” Client: “Oh, dear. I can’t see my e-mail.” Me: “Well, let’s see. Can you open up Internet Explorer for me and tell me what you see?” Client: “Open what?” Me: “Your browser, can you open up your browser?” Client: “My…my…?” Me: “What you click on when you want to browse the internet?” Client: “I don’t use anything, I just turn my computer on, and it’s there.” Me: “Okay. Do you see the little blue ‘e’ icon on your desktop?” Client: “You mean I have to start writing letters again?” Me: “I’m…what, I’m sorry?” Client: “I don’t have any pens at my desk. I just want my e-mail again.” Me: “No, ma'am, your desktop, on your computer screen. Can you click on the little blue ‘e’ on your computer screen for me?” Client: “Oh, this is too much work. I’m too upset. Just send me my e-mail. Can’t you send me my e-mail?” Me: “We…okay, ma'am. Can you tell me what color the lights are on your router right now?” Client: “My what?” Me: “The little box with green or possibly a couple of red lights on it right now - it’s most likely near your computer?”

Client: “Lights and boxes, boxes and lights, just get my e-mail for me.

Me: “My test is showing that you should be able to get online right now. Can you tell me what you’re seeing on your computer screen?” Client: “It’s been the same thing for the last two hours.” Me: “An error message?” Client: “No, just stars. It’s black and moving stars.” Me: “…Do you see your mouse next to your keyboard?” Client: “Yes.”

Me: “Move it for me.” Client: “Move it?” Me: “Yes. Move it.” Client: “My e-mail!”