#getting started with spring boot and spring tool suite 4

[sruthypm]

Unlock Your Programming Potential with the Best Java Courses in Ernakulam – Techmindz

Java remains one of the most popular and powerful programming languages, known for its reliability, versatility, and extensive use in web applications, mobile apps, and enterprise systems. If you’re looking to kick-start your career in software development, Techmindz offers the best Java courses in Ernakulam, designed to give you the skills you need to excel in the tech industry.

Whether you're a student, recent graduate, or someone looking to upskill, Techmindz provides comprehensive Java training that makes you industry-ready.

Why Choose Java?

Java is not just a programming language—it’s the foundation of many of the world's most successful technologies. Here’s why Java continues to be a top choice for developers:

Platform Independence: Java's "Write once, run anywhere" philosophy means it can run on any platform with a JVM (Java Virtual Machine).

Wide Range of Applications: From mobile apps (especially Android) to large-scale enterprise solutions, Java powers a vast range of technologies.

Strong Job Demand: Java remains one of the most in-demand skills in the tech industry, with high-paying job opportunities across the globe.

Rich Ecosystem: With frameworks like Spring, Hibernate, and tools like Maven and Jenkins, Java developers are equipped to handle complex systems with ease.

Why Techmindz Offers the Best Java Courses in Ernakulam

Techmindz is a leading IT training institute in Ernakulam, known for delivering high-quality, practical-oriented courses. Our Java Courses are designed to give you a deep understanding of Java programming, while also making you job-ready.

Here’s why Techmindz stands out as the best Java training provider in Ernakulam:

1. Comprehensive, Industry-Relevant Curriculum

Our Java course covers everything from the basics to advanced concepts, ensuring that you not only learn syntax but also master the key programming principles that will shape your career.

The course includes:

Core Java: Data types, operators, loops, conditionals, OOPs concepts (Classes, Objects, Inheritance, Polymorphism)

Exception Handling & Collections Framework

Java I/O and File Handling

Java Database Connectivity (JDBC)

Multithreading & Concurrency

Spring Framework & Hibernate

Web Development with Servlets & JSP

Introduction to Java-based frameworks like Spring Boot

This thorough approach ensures that you gain a strong foundation and are ready to tackle real-world development challenges.

2. Hands-On Experience with Real Projects

At Techmindz, we believe in learning by doing. Throughout the Java course, you’ll get hands-on experience by working on live projects. From creating simple Java applications to building complex systems, the projects you work on will help you understand how to write clean, scalable, and maintainable code.

3. Experienced Trainers with Industry Expertise

Techmindz boasts a team of highly qualified instructors who are not just teachers—they are experienced developers who bring real-world insights to the classroom. Our instructors guide you through every concept, making sure you understand both theory and practical applications.

4. Job Placement Support

We don’t just stop at teaching. At Techmindz, we go the extra mile by providing comprehensive job placement assistance. From resume building to interview preparation, we ensure that our students are fully equipped to enter the job market. Our extensive industry network provides direct placement opportunities with top IT companies.

5. Flexible Learning Options

Whether you're a student or a working professional, we offer flexible learning options to suit your schedule. Choose from weekday or weekend batches, with both online and offline classes available. Techmindz makes it easy for you to learn Java at your own pace and convenience.

Who Should Join the Best Java Courses in Ernakulam?

Our Java courses are ideal for:

Students pursuing degrees like BTech, BCA, or MCA

Recent Graduates looking to launch a career in software development

Working Professionals who wish to upskill or switch to a development role

Tech Enthusiasts with no prior programming experience who want to start learning Java

Whether you're starting from scratch or have some experience, our course is designed to take you through the learning journey step by step.

Career Opportunities After Completing the Java Course

Upon completing Techmindz’s Java training, you’ll be ready to take on a variety of roles in the software development world, such as:

Java Developer

Backend Developer

Software Engineer

Android Developer

Full Stack Developer (with additional frontend training)

Ernakulam, with its growing IT industry, offers ample job opportunities for skilled Java developers. Techmindz’s strong industry connections ensure that you have access to placement opportunities with leading companies in Kochi and across Kerala.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for the best Java course in Ernakulam, Techmindz is your ideal destination. With expert instructors, a comprehensive curriculum, real-world projects, and job placement assistance, we provide everything you need to succeed in the tech world.

Ready to unlock your programming potential? Enroll in Techmindz's Java course today and start your journey toward becoming a skilled Java developer!

https://www.techmindz.com/java-programming-course-kochi-infopark/

[bladefistx2]

Let’s face it, performing such a major software upgrade is hardly ever a smooth process.

 

Whether you are working in a large corporation, or in a small startup, your software will be built on top of existing 3rd party software. 

Why? Since it is virtually impossible to develop everything yourself. That is the reason software developers bootstrap existing software packages, which may work exactly as expected, right? 

Not so fast.. 

Maybe one day someone discovers the package you are using has a vulnerability

If your code is vulnerable, it's just a matter of time and luck until a hacker discovers it and abuses it. You might not know about a breach until it is too late and your data is stolen or your customers lose their trust in you. 

Maybe the package or dependency is reaching end of life and will no longer be supported, forcing you to make the upgrade. 

So you have been assigned the task of overseeing the upgrade. Let's dive right in! Not so fast… 

How about making a detailed plan before starting? 

#1 Create an adequate test plan.

It is recommended to have a solid test suite, before even starting the upgrade process to avoid causing regression after shipping upgraded code. 

If there is a flow that may fail due to incompatibility, you will want to know about it ahead of time.

This is why it is important to plan out your tests before you even begin with the upgrade process. 

Sanity and unit tests are not enough. They are important, but integration or end to end tests (E2E) that should cover not just the basic flows but the crucial user interactions in your system. 

You may ask yourself how can I be confident my tests are enough?

Well, one method widely used in large companies is test coverage.

Tools such as Jacoco (Java code coverage) or built-in coverage tools in IDEs (like Intellij IDEA, Eclipse, Visual Studio etc…) can boost your confidence in your tests, by showing the percentage of lines & branches covered.

Generally the higher the percentage, the better your confidence is. But if you insist on a number - check out this forum post.

I must note here that code coverage for tests as a metric should be taken as a grain of salt, since tests that are merely added for sake of coverage also incur in terms of cost of maintenance since they will need to be changed when the code changes. 

A common mistake is to skip performance tests. 

Wouldn't you like to find out if the system started to become slow before the customer started to complain?

If all went well, you could just add a nice line to your resume such as: “improved performance of the system by 25%”.

#2 Navigate with a map! 

Make a map of all dependencies that need to be upgraded. 

Update the list as you go.

Sometimes we’re lucky and all of the dependencies can be updated in one go, but usually there are issues and we will need to do some trial and error to see which changes are causing the issues.

This is a good opportunity to head over to the 3rd repository and check for the latest version of those dependencies.

Wait, did you just read “latest”? Which leads me to the next point

#3 Take consideration into choosing the version of the dependency you are going to take. 

I get it. You're an early adopter. Me too. But I appreciate stability, and so do my customers. 

When I'm taking the version of a dependency that just came out last week, I am risking exposing my clients to uknown bugs. 

It's a constant balance between getting a stable version (old enough) that has the least amount of vulnerabilities (young enough).

#4 Overlooking the deployment process 

Whether you are upgrading for performance reasons, for compliance or compatibility - many make the mistake of neglecting to update the container image they use to deploy their software. 

If you are using java and docker, you might want to check the image of the jdk you are pulling to ship your software. Many times there are vulnerabilities in the image that have been fixed in a later version.

Pay attention that sometimes these images bring dependencies that are incompatible with your own 3rd party dependencies. In that case get ready for some more updates or at least an exclusion of dependencies.

#5 Not having a rollback plan

The problem usually lies with what we don't know. 

Let's assume you tested everything you could think of, and notified all your clients of your service about the upgrade, as well as testing your interaction with them. 

But what about that one use case or one service that you didn't know about? 

Having a rollback plan in place - aka disaster recovery, or DR, will allow you to have a backup plan and revert the changes for any unforeseen event.

Conclusion:

If you take one thing from this short article, let it be planning. The more time you put into carefully planning will minimize risk and make your customers and managers happy. 

Good luck with your upgrade, and don't lag behind! 

[nealflitherland]

For some reason the whole first paragraph shows up in the preview... but anyway, you get the idea! If you like my take on Nightwing, go check him out!

[codecraftshop]

STS4 - Getting Started with Spring Tools Suite 4https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnIp4tLcBJ0XbtKbE2ITrwA?sub_confirmation=1&app=desktop #spring #springtools #sts4 #sts #springtoolsuite #introduction #springboot #eclipseplugin About: 00:00 STS4 - Introduction | Getting Started with Spring Tools Suite 4 In this course we will learn about Spring Tool Suite. STS4 in short is an IDE (Integrated Development Environment) to create Spring framework and Spring Boot application quickly and efficently. In this video we will learn about few features of STS 4 and how can we launch STS 4. Diffences between packaging of STS 3 and STS 4. In the next videos we will explore STS 4 in detail. https://www.facebook.com/codecraftshop/ https://t.me/codecraftshop/ Please do like and subscribe to my you tube channel "CODECRAFTSHOP" Follow us on facebook | instagram | twitter at @CODECRAFTSHOP . -~-~~-~~~-~~-~- Please watch: "Install hyperv on windows 10 - how to install, setup & enable hyper v on windows hyper-v" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KooTCqf07wk -~-~~-~~~-~~-~-

[teresamary]

6 Points to Take Note of Before Hiring an Angular Developer

Angular is a platform for implementing web and mobile applications which is open-sourced and built on TypeScript. With the specular features that Angular provides, people started adopting Angular for their web apps. For developing a dynamic web app, here’s the best way to hire angular developers to help you with the app development process.

You need to get angular developers proficient with this robust framework if you want to create a dynamic site. An angular programmer may produce Single Page Applications (SPAs) with user-friendly interfaces and various features.

It is essential to hire a highly qualified angular developer that can increase the productivity of web apps, deliver excellent outcomes, and create unique solutions that are somewhat original.

Therefore, it is essential to know their duties before moving on with the hiring process of the angular developers. 

What is Angular?

Since it is open-source, developers have well-liked the mobile app development framework Angular. Thanks to the Angular framework, developers have all the resources they require to build single-page applications.

Both client-side and browser-side are considered to be components of the Angular framework. This platform is self-contained, thanks to a number of built-in tools. The most helpful factors are those that affect routing, admin judgments, and form validation. 

What’s the Role of an Angular Developer?

These are the duties of an Angular Developer:

Implement Angular best practices to provide a top-notch code and a simplified user experience.

Design and provide consumers with value-adding functionalities utilizing Angular best practices.

Make sure of the transparent dependency chain between the model, file system, and logic.

Creating self-contained, tested, reusable components.

Making technical and design choices for the Angular project that are best suited to the corporate objectives

Angular Developer Skills: Factors to Consider before Hiring

The hardest part of choosing to create a front-end app using Angular is selecting the right team of engineers. Among Angular developers, skills and experience are the most desired qualities.

How well a project can integrate Angular with other technologies is crucial to project success. The developer's aptitude for writing code effectively while sparing resources is equally essential to take into account. 

Here are the 6 important factors that should be kept in mind before hiring angular developers:

1# Should be skilled in testing and debugging

The ability to test and debug code is crucial for Angular developers. Developers may have to cope with code written by others along with their own. Programmers need to be able to spot and fix problems as a result.

2# Must be proficient with Typescript

A new object-oriented programming language called TypeScript makes large-scale online applications easier to manage. TypeScript is used by numerous sizable open-source applications and platforms, including Angular.

3# Must be familiar with Javascript and CLI 

The Angular Command Line Interface or CLI should be the first Angular component installed via NPM (Node Package Manager). NPM is a utility that assists in installing critical packages for web development and is essential for installing Angular.

4# Capable of using the appropriate stack

Front-end programmers must be knowledgeable in a variety of frameworks. For instance, Angular developers need to be aware of various back-end platforms like Node.js and Spring Boot that interact with Angular.

Identical to Angular CLI, the Express for Node.js online app framework offers full TypeScript support and npm (Node Package Manager), enabling it to provide superior scaffolding.

5# Be familiar with RESTful API usage and Git

RESTful APIs make use of HTTP requests. Therefore, it's crucial to employ engineers who are knowledgeable about this kind of API. The POST, PUT, GET, and DELETE operations can be used to access a RESTful API. Thus your Angular developers should be aware of them. Additionally, they should successfully read and apply instructions and comprehend how to configure routing paths. 

Git is a configuration management solution that keeps track of every change made to a project. It can come back if you remove it, change the code, or do anything else. Git is helpful for Angular web developers since it enables them to test new ideas and experiment with code.

6# Version control expertise is a must.

Systems for version control offer a number of advantages. The development process is streamlined, which is one of the key advantages. Additionally, managing code is much simpler, assuring that all are on the same page. The most remarkable fact is that new members might review older code to prevent mistakes.

Though the requirements of the skills in an angular developer may be slightly different as per the requirement of the applications, these 6 are the main factors.

Technologies that Angular Developers should know

Here are the skills depending on the years of experience an Angular Developer should have.

Basic Level (1-2 years of experience) Angular Developer

JavaScript

HTML5 and CSS

Modules and Components

Angular Best Practices

Web services used in the app

SPAs (Single Page Apps)

Middle-Level (3-5 years of experience) Angular Developers

XHRs creation

Observables of RxJS

User Validations

CIE Script Creation

Front-end app infrastructure

Testing

Senior Level (5+ years of experience) Angular Developers

TypeScript features

APIs for search engines

Architecture of REST

Rendering server-side functions

DRY, SOLID, KISS

Socket handling

Final Verdict

In conclusion, picking up the ideal Angular developer is an excellent complement to your project. An effective Angular Developer will be a must asset to your web development work. Nevertheless, it is not easy to recruit them. Also, it isn't that difficult too. Based on the guidance offered in the article, you can find a skilled and suitable angular development firm or Angular developer.

EnProwess Technologies develops mobile apps and software from overseas.

We have a group of knowledgeable and talented angular developers. After working on numerous large-scale projects for our prestigious clientele worldwide, they have proven their intelligence.

[livingcorner]

A Beginner’s Guide to Fruit and Vegetable Gardening

People take an interest in gardening for a variety of reasons—higher quality produce, exercise in the great outdoors or saving money. Whether you hope to discover your green thumb or save a little green, growing your own fruits and vegetables can be an advantageous pastime. When you’re just getting started, gardening can be intimidating. How do you even know where to start? These gardening resources will help you learn the basics, starting with the five-step process outlined in this article.  

Step #1: Gather Your Gear

You should gather several gardening tools before getting your nails dirty. It is worth the investment to buy high-quality items, as broken or insufficient tools are not only frustrating, but cost you more money and time in the long run. Proper tools provide more comfort and efficiency, which means less work for you. You can find most of these items in home improvement stores, gardening supply stores (or nurseries) and online retailers. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Trowel: Used for weeding and digging small holes

Gardening gloves: As much as we like getting our hands dirty, we don’t like getting them that dirty. A good pair of gloves can also protect your hands from bugs (if you’re squeamish) and prickly plants and weeds.

Sun hat: For UV protection, make sure this is wide-brimmed and cinches.

Watering can and/or hose: What you need will vary depending on your garden’s water needs and proximity to your water source.

Wheelbarrow: For larger gardens, you’ll need one to transport mulch, dirt and compost.

Roundhead shovel: This is for digging larger holes.

Rake: Ideal for spreading mulch, and gathering or transporting debris that has collected around your garden and between plants.

Shears: Used to prune away browning leaves or snipping herbs.

Pitchfork: This is an essential tool if you are creating a compost heap or pile.

Step #2: Choose Where Your Garden Will Grow

There are three common types of gardens, all of which have their own pros and cons: traditional (in-ground), container and raised beds. Once you’ve picked out the sunny spot where your garden will reside, it’s time to decide on one (or a combination) of these three garden types, depending on your needs.

Traditional Garden: An in-ground garden often provides limitless options for what you can grow, while utilizing the natural ecosystem of nutrients, bacteria and insects already present to help your plants grow. Ideally, choose a site that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight and faces south.  

Container Garden: For those who can’t plant a traditional in-ground garden, whether because of poor soil or no soil at all (apartment or city dwellers), container gardening is a fantastic alternative. There are many different types of containers available at nurseries and home improvement stores. Containers can vary in shape, size and material to suit your gardening needs (and personality). Beyond terra cotta and clay pots, almost anything can work as a gardening container: plastic bins, untreated wood barrels, galvanized metal buckets, a hanging planter, a planter box on a windowsill—even a recycled yogurt container or an old boot! Every container is different; some lose moisture quickly and others retain heat, so research before you buy. Make sure the container has adequate drainage and the appropriate depth to sustain the roots of your plants. A container garden is ideal for using store-bought organic potting soil, which is aerated, nutrient-rich and weed-free. It is best to place plants with similar moisture and sun needs in the same container. Not every plant is suitable for container gardening, and not every container matches up well with every plant. Remember that deep-rooted plants (carrots, for example) require a deep pot (at least 10-12 inches). Ideal candidates for container gardens are leaf and head lettuces, spinach, green beans, peppers (require staking) onions, radishes, tomatoes (require staking), squash, carrots, garlic and herbs.  

Raised-Bed Garden: Raised beds are a happy medium between a traditional garden and a container garden. The benefits of this garden include better control over the soil, more manageable weed control and easier access for gardeners who experience pain from bending over too far or have limited mobility. Materials used to create raised beds include cinder blocks, bricks, untreated wood and even rocks. A raised bed can be anywhere from six inches off the ground to the height of a standard table, and generally, these beds are about three or four feet wide with a depth of at least 16 inches. (Make sure your beds are not so wide or so deep that you can’t reach the plants in the center.) Fill in these beds as you would a standard garden, using good soil enriched with compost. Carrots, cabbage and other deep-rooted vegetables do especially well in raised beds because you avoid compacted dirt that could be full of obstructions to their deep roots.

Step #3: Prepare Your Soil

Next, check your soil. Poor-quality soil can seriously hurt a gardener’s best efforts. What characterizes good soil? A high-quality soil for gardening will be:

Well-aerated, which means air circulates through it well. Dense soil, like clay, is often too thick for roots to grow properly and doesn’t drain well.

Free of stones and other obstructions. Soil shouldn’t be too sandy, either.

Rich in organic matter, such as compost or aged manure. Organic matter provides nutrients to plants. When a garden is rich in these resources, the soil itself will provide nutrients for the plants to grow, which means artificial fertilizers are often unnecessary.

Simple tests are available from any garden center to check the quality of your soil, including its pH. Generally, most plants thrive in soil with a pH that is slightly acidic. (There are exceptions to this, however, such as blueberries, which love an acidic soil, and beets, which enjoy alkaline conditions.) If your soil is too acidic, try adding bone meal, dolomitic limestone or wood ashes. To amend alkaline soil, try materials such as peat moss, sawdust or pine needles.

Beyond that, the entire permaculture of insects, bacteria and microbes do better in well-drained soil. If your soil is too thick and does not drain well or does not hold moisture well, the answer is compost, compost, compost. Thick soil also does well with the addition of some sand.

You're reading: A Beginner’s Guide to Fruit and Vegetable Gardening

If you are digging a garden on fallow land (or your garden needs a serious makeover), then you should prepare your plot in autumn by digging six to eight inches into the soil, removing visible rocks, and working in as much organic matter as you can before you start to plant the next spring.  

Step #4: Decide Which Plants to Grow

Deciding which fruits and vegetables to grow will depend on what appeals to your diet, which plants will fit within the size of your garden and which plants are appropriate for your hardiness zone. Could you grow something exotic that is hard to find at your local farmers market? Is your favorite produce too expensive to buy from the grocery? Are you unsatisfied with the quality or taste of your favorite vegetables?

For the cost of a packet of seeds (usually a few dollars), your garden will more than pay for itself with the amount of edibles it will produce—not to mention be superior in nutrient content, freshness and taste. Fresh fruits and vegetables—especially organic ones—are expensive to buy, but you could save a lot of money in just one season by growing some in your own backyard.

Read more: What To Do With Too Much Fresh Mint From the Garden

You can grow all plants from seeds, but many “starts” or seedlings are available from your local nursery—tiny tomato, pepper, onion, broccoli and melon plants, started in a nursery greenhouse, are usually ready to plant directly into the soil. Buying seedlings is more expensive than buying a packet of seeds, but it’s a great option if you’re a fledgling gardener or want to save time as many seeds need to grow indoors for weeks before they’re ready for the outdoors. If you’re starting from seeds, read the label on every packet. If a label reads “direct sow,” you can sow the seeds directly into the soil, while others need to be started indoors. Either way, the packet of seeds or starter plant will include directions about the spacing, watering, and thinning practices that are most suitable for that particular fruit or vegetable.  

Step #5: Ready, Set, Grow! 

You’ve got your gear, prepared your plot and soil and bought your plants. Next comes planting them to ensure they’ll get adequate sunshine and water as they grow.

Different plants have different needs for sunlight. Sun worshippers include tomatoes, squash, beans, eggplant, corn and peppers, while those less dependent on the sun are leafy vegetables, potatoes, carrots and turnips. You can sow plants that need less sun in early spring or late summer when the sun is less vibrant, too. When choosing what to put where, remember to place taller plants on the north side of your plot to prevent shadows from forming and inhibiting the growth of shorter plants.

After your seeds or seedlings are in the soil, you can use additional compost as mulch to improve water retention, help control weeds and keep the roots cool in hot weather. Other mulch options include straw, grass clippings, untreated wood chips, gravel or stone.

Unfortunately, Mother Nature isn’t always reliable enough to provide sufficient rainfall for a garden. Moreover, depending on your region, you might need to supplement it by watering your plants a little or a lot. If you notice a plant’s leaves, fruit or buds start to brown or droop, increase the water supply. Oddly enough, if a plant is waterlogged, oxygen is unable to circulate to its roots, and the plant will show signs of stress similar to dehydration. Green leaves and stems that turn yellow or lighten in color could also be a sign of overwatering. Waterlogged plants do not respond positively to more water. Some water-rich fruits and vegetables, such as melons and cucumber thrive when they receive more water, while others, such as tomatoes, hate getting their feet wet too long. Always water plants at soil level in the morning, as evening watering can make them more susceptible to disease and mildew. Sporadic deep watering is more effective than frequent shallow watering. Be diligent about watering and weeding your precious new garden and chances are, it will flourish before your eyes!

Finally, start small and begin with plants that are easy to grow. This way, you’ll avoid situations where the joy of your new hobby is replaced by frustration. Most importantly, relax! There will be successes and failures, but half the fun of gardening is learning as you grow!

Read more: How to Use Perlite to Improve Soil and Boost Plant Growth

Source: https://livingcorner.com.au Category: Garden

source https://livingcorner.com.au/a-beginners-guide-to-fruit-and-vegetable-gardening/

[jeremiahbaquero]

Headcanons that turned in to a whole fuckin story.

·         Raul Eduardo Baquero Vela is the world’s biggest bisexual, born around 19 March 1802 or 1805 (he’s lied about his age so much his real date of birth is unknown) in the settlement now named Aldama, Mexico. His father was Manolo Baquero Garcia, a butcher, his mother Paloma Vela Alcantar. He had 4 older brothers.

·         Raul was his father’s favorite and would be found often in the shop, learning how to cut meat at an early age, when his father died when Raul was 10, he was given his knives and the shop was kept open for four more years before his oldest brother decided that he did not want to carry on his father’s business.

·         Went to America with his brothers under his mother’s advice, as she did not want Raul to be the only Baquero son left to carry on the town’s butcher’s shop.

·         His first real love was a rich Frenchman named Nicolas, a man he met after seducing his sister

·         Raul has bad taste in lovers, always seems to get fucked over, first with Nicolas, a relationship that turned violent, then with various others, including Antonio who he falls in love with quickly, until he met Ana, whom he married.

·         Raul left New Orleans in the middle of the night, escaping Nicolas, with only his knife roll, clothes he was wearing and money he stole from him. He stole a horse and headed north, following the Mississippi River. He settled for a few months in Arkansas when his boots fell apart. When he was ready to set out again, he headed north east, making his way towards the Atlantic Ocean.

·         In early 1823, he meets a fellow traveler, a Spaniard named Antonio. Antonio is three years his senior and they spend four months together in West Virginia. In the October, Antonio leaves, promising Raul that they will meet again at some point.

·         Ana was the only woman that Raul could say that he truly loved. She was the love of his life, but he struggled to stay faithful, occasionally ending up drunk and in bed with Antonio when he returned to the settlement after one of his travels.

·         He meets Ana in Pennsylvania, in the early spring of 1824. Ana had arrived from Egypt a year previous and is part of a secret military force. Raul falls head first in love with Ana, with Ana merely tolerating his company until she falls pregnant and reluctantly leaves her military position. The pair leave Pennsylvania silently, after a small wedding ceremony, as Ana wants to get as far away from the conflict that her organization brought, to protect her family and they make it to Kentucky just as their first son, Tomas is born in March 1825.

·         Raul enjoys being a father, whereas Ana develops some postpartum depression at the sudden 180 that her life has taken. 4 years older than Raul, she had a career she loved, she believed truly in protecting people and felt she had found her calling, something that had been abruptly halted, due to her meeting Raul. She snaps out of her funk when Tomas crawls out of the house, and tumbles down the porch steps, cutting his forehead in the process. From then on, she is protective and dotes on Tomas, growing to love Raul.

·         Ana is plagued by paranoia, however, and is not content to stay in one place too long, fearing that she will be recognized and lead to Tom being put in danger. The pair find themselves in Port Huron, Michigan in 1816. Raul does not enjoy the cold winters, but decides that this place is a good place to settle as the population of the town is so small. They move in to a house in the outskirts of the town, by the lake. They are both faced with prejudice, due to them not being of European descent. Despite this, Raul is resilient and decides to befriend the butcher in the town, looking forward to being able to settle down with his family and provide for them in the same way that his father provided for his family.

·         Ana befriends local woman, Mary Whitlocke. The pair bond over their children who are around the same age, but their husbands work for rival businesses; Raul at the butchery, Jed Whitlocke runs the fishery business.

·         Mr Whittaker, the butcher, retires in 1827, and without children, he gives Raul the butcher’s. The butcher’s was simply named “Port Huron Butcher’s,” so after seeking permission, Raul renames it to Baquero’s, reminiscent of the business his father owned.

·         The Baquero and Whitlocke rivalry grows as Raul attracts new customers as his shop is always busy with him and a local boy prepare meat that they purchase from the local farmers. Raul is friendly and chatty, exuberant and finds peace when he is around people.

·         Antonio and Raul are reunited when Raul is in Detroit, in the same year, on a trip to the city to purchase new tools. His stay is only supposed to be one night, but after purchasing his goods, he finds Antonio in a saloon and the pair end up going to the bedroom that Raul had paid for and he extends his stay in the city for two more days. Raul returns to a very frosty reception, especially when he returns with Antonio in tow.

·         Raul offers their spare bedroom to rent out to Antonio when he passes through, something that Ana is opposed to as she doesn’t like how close the pair seem, as Raul had never explicitly stated that he had past romantic relationships with men.

·         Ana and Mary continue to spend time together, more often than not at the Baquero household due to Jed’s dislike of the Baqueros. Tom and Clay became friends and spent their time playing at the edge of the forest by the lake while their mothers watched from Ana’s backyard. When Raul had closed the shop, he would go to the forest with the boys and take them in a little ways and teach them how to make shelters and which berries were safe to eat.

·         Ana announced that she was pregnant again in the winter of 1829, while Antonio was staying in Port Huron. Raul was ecstatic, but Ana began to become distant, worried that her life would only be defined by her ability to raise children, especially as she felt like she had nothing else outside of the family; no job, one friend. Raul celebrated the news with Antonio and others at the local saloon and did not come home in the morning until nearly noon.

·         Tom loved his father dearly, but did not enjoy sitting in the shop with him, so he was often playing with Clarence and Barry, or helping his mother with the household chores. Tom’s favorite part of the day was when Raul returned and would lavish attention on the boy. Ana struggled with Tom’s obvious preference of Raul over her

·         Ana gave birth to twins in May 1830, two boys, Gene and Jeremiah. Ana was secretly upset that there was no baby girl, as she found Tom exhausting to look after. Tom loved being big brother and would try to help Ana as much as he could so he could spend time with his baby brothers after school.

·         Ana’s mood deteriorated again and although she loved her children, she felt suffocated much of the time. She turned her unhappiness towards Raul, feeling like he had trapped her in this new life. Raul was still hopelessly in love with her and although he was not oblivious to her distance, he tried to push past it and gave her more affection; the opposite of what she wanted.

·         Raul suggested having more children, just after the twins turned two and Ana told him that if he wanted to retain use of his penis, he would be wise not to touch her that way again.

·         Raul’s method of coping to his wife refusing to sleep with him was to drown himself in whisky and Antonio.

·         Their marriage ended when Ana disappeared, in 1833, after leaving a note saying that she was leaving to rejoin her force, Raul told their sons that she had died from a fever. Ana left in the note that she contemplated taking the children away with her but concluded that as much as she blamed Raul for the life they had begun to lead, she knew he was a good father and would be more suited to bringing up their sons.

·         Overwhelmed with grief, Raul couldn’t stand to be living in the same town that he and his wife had spent years together, had brought in two more sons together, so he told his apprentice, Samuel, that he would be leaving for a year and that he was now promoted to running the business in his absence. Before leaving, he promised Clarence that he would come back and, on his return, he would be his delivery boy.

·         Raul took his sons down to the first place in America that he called home, and the small family lived in New Orleans for the winter; leading Jeremiah and Gene’s first memories being that of Louisiana.

·         Raul and the boys return to Port Huron in the late fall of 1834, before the first snowfall, just over a year after leaving and their return coincides with Antonio passing through. As promised, he takes control of the butchery again and hires Clay as a delivery boy.

·         Raul holds regular storytelling evenings in the backyard of his house, the children of the settlement love to attend, sat around a campfire as Raul tells them stories of adventures that he had led before he became a father, and stories that Antonio had told him about his own adventures.

·         In 1836, Antonio stays in Port Huron for a full year, living with Raul and his children. The town start to speculate their relationship and although the pair are aware of the whisperings, they ensure that the boys do not hear anything. Raul is quick to fall in love again with The Wanderer, as he affectionately calls Antonio.

·         Tom regularly takes himself and his brothers to school in the mornings as usual as Raul was usually out early in the mornings to collect deliveries. Tom loves overseeing the twins and proudly helps them with their schoolwork. Wherever Tom goes, he drags his little brothers.

·         Clay catches Antonio and Raul in bed together one morning after Raul is late to open the shop and Clay had been waiting outside, ready to collect his morning deliveries before school.  This is Clay’s first glimpse at the possibility of two men living together and loving each other.

·         During Antonio’s year long stay, he joins Raul in the fireside stories, his charismatic nature and colorful vocabulary igniting a taste of adventure in Clarence. Clay spends more time at the Baquero household, just to listen to Antonio. Clay first starts writing his own stories at this point, based on the tales that Antonio and Raul have told him.

·         Raul and Jed get into a public fist fight in the spring of 1837, outside the town hall, after Raul finds bruises on Clay’s torso after he offers to take Clay’s shirt for washing, after an accident in the shop causes Clay to spill the container of cow’s blood that is in the back of the shop. Raul wins the altercation, much to Jed’s disgust and the rivalry between the two becomes more intense, Jed refusing to let Clay deliver for Raul anymore. Jed has Raul arrested for the assault, and detained for three days and nights, but charges are dropped as Jed is unable to prove that Raul started the fight, as he himself had started it.

·         Clay confides in Raul more than he has ever anyone in his life, telling him fully about his struggles with living with Jed and his oppression. He talks about how at 12 he lost his virginity to a woman in the saloon.

·         Instead of keeping away from the Whitlocke boy, Raul pledges to keep him safe, and when Antonio passes through from a trip to the East, Raul suggests that he take Clay, to show him that there’s a life beyond the lake and his father. In the time before Antonio takes Clay, Raul often takes Clay to Detroit on weekend business trips, with Lottie covering for Clay.

·         In March 1838, Antonio agrees to take Clay with him, heading west. Raul thanks Antonio and Antonio promises to bring him back. Tom says goodbye to Clay, hugging him tight and making him promise to come back and take him and Barry with him next time.

·         Raul deals with a new wave of racism as Jed is elected mayor of Port Huron, shortly after Clay leaves town. His business dwindles, and he struggles to stay afloat. He stops holding the fireside story evenings, he works longer hours and Tom has to leave school to get a job at one of the farms in town.

·         Raul is arrested for fraud after Jed accuses him of not paying his taxes in full. He is released without charge as he had sought Lottie’s advice on his paperwork.

·         When Clay returns to the settlement, he is alone, Antonio leaving him one town over, promising to collect him in the summertime. Clay has been taught how to live on the trail in the 9 months he was away, most of the time spent in present day Montana and Wyoming areas. Clay rushes to Raul’s house to tell them about the wonderful time he has spent and to thank Raul for suggesting that he go with him. When he finds his father is mayor, he feels a sense of sinking in his stomach and is afraid to return home. Raul takes the teen in and lets him stay for a month before Jed finds out that Clay has returned and again, fights with Raul, this time, leaving Raul badly injured, his cheekbone and his right arm broken.

·         Following Jed’s “victory” instead of it making Clay want to keep his distance, he instead feels obligated to spend time with Raul, feeling guilty for putting him in the position. He continues to help the butchery in secret, making deals with the farms and going to nearby towns to obtain deals. Jeremiah is working in the butchery at this point, helping his father who now has limited use of his arm until it heals.

·         Clay leaves with Antonio in the summer of 1839, upset with Tom as he finds out that Tom had secretly been courting his sister behind everyone’s back until Lottie dumps Tom and takes a full time job in the settlement’s general store. Feeling brave, and overwhelmed with gratitude and affection for Raul, Clay kisses the older man before leaving, leaving Raul stunned.

·         Raul teaches Jem the tricks of his trade, hoping that one of his sons will carry on the shop when he retires, Jem the only one who seems interested. Gene is more interested in music lessons and Tom leaves the town upon appointment at a large farm just south of the Michigan border. Tom sends home money each month, Raul’s business still suffering from Jed’s imposed higher taxation on red meat and for houses in Raul’s part of town.

·         October of 1840, Clay returns just in time for his birthday. Again, he returns alone, telling stories of Antonio heading south for the winter and that Clay is to meet him in Kentucky in November. Clay sneaks in to Raul’s house one evening and Raul scolds him, telling him that he must keep himself safe, and that includes not letting Jed find him close to him. The two argue and Raul’s anger rises, going to push Clay out of the house, but Clay doesn’t let him, the two standing the doorway and Clay dives back in and kisses Raul again. Raul is unable to give in and feeling lonely now that Jed has all but ostracized him and his oldest son leaving town, he allows Clay into his bed.

·         Clay tells Raul that he won’t leave to go seek Antonio and that he can wait until Antonio returns to the settlement, but Raul tells him that he must go, that his life isn’t meant to be for him stuck to the shore of the lake forever. Clay is stubborn, however and the pair argue again, before Raul relenting and agreeing that he can stay in his house until November, but after that, he must go and find Antonio as he had promised. He asks Clay to give Antonio a letter, which Clay promises he will.

·         Rumors start up again, people saying that they have seen the Whitlocke boy in town, leading Raul to become increasingly paranoid. He starts to pack up the family’s belongings in preparation in case they have to quickly escape. As the winter draws in, he is hoping that he does not need to. Clay goes to his parents’ house to soothe his mother’s worries and promises to stay the last week with her before he leaves again. Mary is glad that her son is able to leave the settlement and keep away from Jed.

·         The day before Clay leaves, the pair become clumsy and Jed spots the two in an embrace on Raul’s porch. Knowing that Clay is due to leave tomorrow, Jed bides his time, knowing that if he wants to try Raul for homosexual behavior while Clay is in town, it will implicate him and tarnish Jed’s own political career. His rage builds however, when he sees the pair kissing just before Clay mounts his horse and leaves town.

·         A week after Clay leaves, Jed orders the trial of Raul Baquero, accused of homosexual acts. He has Raul arrested again and thrown in to the town’s cells. Jem and Gene are taken in by the church while the trial takes place.

·         The trial is unfair but Jed pumps money into the town’s justice system and the verdict comes back as guilty. The sentencing is hanging.

[t-baba]

Angular 10, data grids, randomness, and checking some boxes

#494 — June 26, 2020

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JavaScript Weekly

Lessons Learned Refactoring Optional Chaining Into a Large Codebase — Lea Verou, creator of Mavo, decided to refactor Mavo to use optional chaining (?.) and here’s some of what she discovered along the way. (As an aside, Lea was the subject of a neat 10 minute programming documentary recently – worth a watch!)

Lea Verou

A Little Bit of Plain JavaScript Can Do A Lot — For anyone more than happy to dive in and write JavaScript without dragging in an entire framework and tooling to manage it, there will be no surprises here, but this is a nice reminder otherwise. Do you always need a 'framework'? No.

Julia Evans

Creating a Voting App with Firestore and Wijmo — Learn how to build a realtime voting app quickly and easily with the Firestore database and Wijmo components. The app uses OAuth for authentication and allows users to submit and vote for ideas.

Wijmo by GrapeCity sponsor

Angular 10 Released — A major release for the popular Google-led framework, though smaller in scope than usual as Angular 9 only came out in February ;-) 10 gains a new date range picker, optional stricter settings, and an upgrade to TypeScript 3.9.

Stephen Fluin (Google)

What's Coming in TypeScript 4? — The first beta of TypeScript 4 is due any moment with a final release due in August. New bits and pieces include variadic tuple types, labelled tuples, short-cut assignment operators (e.g. ||=) and more.

Tim Perry

⚡️ Quick bytes:

Chrome 85's DevTools have gained better support for working with styles created by CSSOM APIs (such as by CSS-in-JS frameworks). There's also syntax autocompletion for optional chaining and highlighting for private fields.

There's nothing to see just yet, but NativeScript is coming to Ionic.

The creator of AlpineJS has written about how he's passed $100K/yr in income using GitHub Sponsors.

Did you know there's a Slack theme for VS Code? 😆

▶️ The JS Party podcast crew discusses how their use of JavaScript syntax evolves (or not) over time.

engineeringblogs.xyz is a new aggregator site (by us!) that brings together what 507 (so far) product and software engineering blogs are talking about. Worth a skim.

💻 Jobs

JavaScript Developer at X-Team (Remote) — Join X-Team and work on projects for companies like Riot Games, FOX, Coinbase, and more. Work from anywhere.

X-Team

Find a Job Through Vettery — Vettery specializes in tech roles and is completely free for job seekers. Create a profile to get started.

Vettery

📚 Tutorials, Opinions and Stories

ECMAScript Proposal: Private Static Methods and Accessors in Classes — Dr. Axel takes a look at another forthcoming language feature (in this case being at stage 3 and already supported by Babel and elsewhere).

Dr. Axel Rauschmayer

npm v7 Series: Why Keep package-lock.json? — If npm v7 is going to support yarn.lock files, then why keep package-lock.json around as well? Isaac goes into some depth as to how yarn.lock works and why it doesn’t quite suit every npm use case.

Isaac Z. Schlueter

How to Dynamically Get All CSS Custom Properties on a Page — Some fun DOM and stylesheet wrangling on display here.

Tyler Gaw

Stream Chat API & JavaScript SDK for Custom Chat Apps — Build real-time chat in less time. Rapidly ship in-app messaging with our highly reliable chat infrastructure.

Stream sponsor

Getting Started with Oak for Building HTTP Services in Deno — A comprehensive Oak with Deno tutorial for beginners (which, I guess, we all are when it comes to Deno). Oak is essentially the most popular option for building HTTP-based apps in Deno right now.

Robin Wieruch

Understanding Generators in JavaScript — Generator functions can be paused and resumed and yield multiple values over time and were introduced in ES6/ES2015.

Tania Rascia

Build a CRUD App with Vue.js, Spring Boot, and Kotlin — It’s a fact of life that not everyone is building apps with JavaScript at every level of the stack. Sometimes.. people use Java too 🤫

Andrew Hughes

▶  Creating a Basic Implemention of 'Subway Surfers' — No modules, webpack or such-like here.. just exploring the joy of throwing a game mechanic together quickly using rough and ready JavaScript. Love it.

Shawn Beaton

Rubber Duck Debugging for JavaScript Developers — When you’re stuck with something, why not talk to a rubber duck?

Valeri Karpov

🔧 Code & Tools

Tabulator 4.7: An Interactive Table and Data Grid Library — Supports all major browsers and can be used with Angular, Vue, and React if you wish. 4.7 is a substantial release. Among other things is a new layout mode that resizes the table container to fit the data (example).

Oli Folkerd

Tragopan: A Minimal Dependency-Free Pan/Zoom Library — Try it out here. Claims to work faster due to use of native browser scrolling for panning (left/right/up/down) and transform/scale for zooming.

team.video

Builds Run Faster on Buildkite 🏃‍♀️ — Build times <5 mins at any scale. Self-hosted agents work with all languages, source control tools & platforms.

Buildkite sponsor

React Query 2: Hooks for Fetching, Caching and Updating Async Data — React Query is well worth checking out and has extensive documentation and even its own devtools. Main repo.

Tanner Linsley

Rando.js: A Helper for Making Randomness Easier — The rando function lets you get random integers in a range, floats in a range, pick between multiple items, return a random element from an array, and more. There’s also randosequence for a more shuffle-like experience.

nastyox

jinabox.js: A Customizable Omnibox for AI Powered Searching — Designed to be used with a Jina back-end. It’s all open source, but will take some digging around to understand fully.

Jina AI

MongoDB Is Easy. Now Make It Powerful. Free Download for 30 Days.

Studio 3T sponsor

IntersectionObserver Visualizer — If you’re new to using the IntersectionObserver API, this useful interactive demo might help you comprehend it a little better.

michelle barker

Polly.js 5.0: Record, Replay, and Stub HTTP Interactions

Netflix

Vest: Effortless Validations Inspired by Testing Frameworks — If you’re used to unit testing, the syntax used here will be familiar.

Evyatar

👻 Scary Item of the Week

Checkboxland: Render 'Anything' as HTML Checkboxes — This frivolous experiment is equal parts terrifying and impressive. It’s a JS library that displays animations, text, and arbitrary data using nothing but HTML checkboxes and, to be fair, they’ve presented it really well!

Bryan Braun

by via JavaScript Weekly https://ift.tt/3g53MDU

[abeliangrouper-blog]

current novel workings (to be built on during the  17 day challenge)

I once again begin my ritual. I start with my linen collared shirts I received for my 16th birthday. I carefully lay all three of them on the bed, folding the sleeves over the middle of each shirt. I then grab the bottom of the shirt and aligned the bottom of the shirt with the shoulders of the shirt. I press each fold to make sure each shirt won't wrinkle. After stacking those three shirts and placing them to the side, I organize the rest of my belongings. I didn't bring many things to boarding school with me, so I have developed a consistent methodology for packing my things. After the collared shirts, I bundle all my socks and underwear in a pouch, fold my terry brown wool suit, and organize each shoe with its counterpart next to my trunk. My t-shirts, sweaters, and shorts go in the trunk first, followed by my trainers, penny loafers, and hiking boots. Then goes the collared shirts, pouch of under garments, and lastly my suit. I then proceed to whirlwind around the room, grabbing miscellaneous belongings and shoving them in the trunk. A small bundle of old letters from my father, a pocket watch, and two battered copies of Plato's Symposium. Here is also where I act against entropy, and remove whatever junk I have accumulated over the past few months. I also throw in my uniforms for school and other less-than-noteworthy articles. I've been a student here -- or rather, I've been traveling from bunk to bunk -- for the past 10 years. My father sent me to Rhython Sut's Prepatory Academy as a way to get me out of his hair. Why he would want to get rid of his 7 year old child escapes me, to be honest. I haven't seen him since I left. He sent letters a few times, but those stopped after the first few years. It doesn't affect me much anymore; at this point I accept that I'm on my own. With the exception of Tom, no one has ever seemed to show true empathy with regards to well-being. After packing my trunk, I head down to the main dining hall for supper before most of everyone else leaves for Christmas break. A standard schedule consists of spending a semester at the Academy, and then going home either for summer, winter, or exam study breaks. If you choose -- or have no choice but -- to stay, then you are permitted to live on campus, but must switch to your assigned room for the following term at the start of the break. So, I've been packing my trunk and switching rooms at the start of every break for the better part of a decade. One Christmas break I did go to my Grandmother's house in Devon, but she died the following Spring, and so that was the first and last time I left campus during break. For dinner they serve steamed potatoes with chives and sour cream, beef brisket, and black bean soup. They also serve a weird smelling stew, but I decide against trying it. It's better not to get adventurous during meal time. The dining hall has 3 thin, long tables with benches on either side that run the whole length of the hall. On one end is the counter facing the tables where the food is served. Behind that is the kitchen, where the food is 'cooked.' If you asked me what I thought of the food, I would say either edible or challenging, depending on if they served mystery mash-up that day. Nonetheless, a hot meal is a hot meal. Not something worth complaining about. --- December 14, 1973 This castle is full of hijackers of actors and backpackers of job-dodging slackers who find the need to self-medicate. This castle is lonely empty and hollow that gives me a bed and food, but not a home. This castle scares me has cobwebs and darkness has bullies and cliques has punches and tears. This castle it suffocates with headmasters and principals with discipline and rules with curfews and homework. But to be fair -- it's something: unlike my father. --- Sterile. Campus over break is like a movie set of a house for a sitcom, equipped with all the items that a typical house would have: a kitchen chalk full of useless but standard household gadgets, children's crayon drawings hanging on an off-white refrigerator, a bowl of fruit untouched and unbruised. And three walls and a film crew making sure the set-up's projection of a home is perfect and untainted. Sterile. However, an empty grounds affords me flexibility. I don't wait in line for food. I don't need to worry about crowded locker rooms and showers. I don't like public locker rooms much. They've been a bother to me since I've been here at the Academy. Anyways, during breaks, I spend time mostly reading and exercising. I am halfway through _____ by ______, where a [explain the plot in a way that a teenage boy would understand and find value from it]. Last term in Mathematics we learned parts of a book that summarizes Euclid's "Elements," and in American Literature we read Stephen Crane's "The Open Boat." Albeit lonely, I prefer schoolwork over team sports. I run from time to time, but watching the other boys play rugby and field hockey gives me more anxiety than excitement, so a while ago I decided to stick to my studies, and to running. --- The teacher begins the lesson with her back to the students. She has straight auburn hair that neatly falls between her shoulders blades down to the middle of her back. "Today we will be learning about two things. Finding the root of a number, and showing which roots of numbers are rational." the professor says. A student raises his hand impatiently and with a skeptical tapping of his pencil on the desk. He says "Whether a number is rational doesn't seem important -- shouldn't we care solely about the application of numbers? Otherwise it seems useless."

The professor rests the chalk on the lip of the bottom of the board and slowly turns around. 

"When I was in University, my older brother would work at a mechanic's shop working on engines. He'd got to class until the early evening, and then spend 3 to 4 hours a day working at this shop. He had always loved engines, and wanted to build them. As soon as he got there, he wanted to work the engines of the coolest sports cars: Mustangs, Jaguars, Corvettes -- this was an American car mechanic shop mind you -- but he didn't even look at a whole engine for almost a year." She lightly walks to the right, resting her hand on the corner of her desk. "His mentor at the shop made him spend every day first learning the layout of the shop, and then about the tools they had available. He'd every day learning about tools, practicing assembly and disassembly of small parts, and reading manuals. He felt more like he was in a classroom than working. He'd show up to work, read a manual for a power tool for an hour, and then perform simple tasks repeatedly until he felt comfortable." The student interjects "If he wanted to work on engines his mentor should've just let him do that." Delicately, "My point is that before you can touch an engine, you must first become acquainted with and develop skills with the tools you have at your disposal. Now let's begin with proving if a root of a number is irrational." I never really speak in class. In this instance I agreed with the professor; I care about learning the why before moving forward with doing things. That's part of what bothers me with my father. He never gave me anything that could even be mistaken for an explanation. I was sent away, and that's about all there is to it. --- There is a large iron fence that surrounds the whole premises; it's about twelve feet tall, with spikes that prevent people from climbing over. At the gate entrance, there is a large gravel pathway leading up to the main building. There are also two smaller paths at either side that shoot off to the left or right (and wrap around the premises just inside the fence). There are a few groundskeepers that live in the far left corner of the compound. They each have a small one-room cabin, equipped with a small furnace and stovetop, a sink, small bathroom, and a single bed all in the same room. Each unit also has a tiny attic with an oval window that faces the backside of the house -- away from the courtyard that lies in the middle of the units -- where the small gardens are. I sometimes walk over and sit on the bench. I like checking in on the growing fruit. As you walk up the main path, there are petunia beds on either side surrounded by oval-shaped hedges, which are neatly manicured. The grass is a sharp green and also cut very short -- it mildly resembles a golf course. The smells of freshly cut grass and insect pesticide abound without fail. There is also a small fountain on your left as you get close to the main door, which boasts a staple figure of the Academy: Rhython Sut. Sergeant Sut -- he served in the Royal Air Force in his youth -- created the Academy in the thirties after the prohibition in America. He procured a pile of cash smuggling rum through Cuba, a country south of the States, and got away scot-free -- although I doubt the same is true for those he worked with during that time. That's about all I know about Rhython and how the Academy came to be. The main building of the Academy itself is quite impressive. Tall, strong oak doors boast as the main entrance; wide concrete pillars guard both to the left and right. Three tall spires crouch perched atop the main building. They make me a bit dizzy look at them so I try not to. The building is a terracotta style brick and the walls are blanketed on the lower halves with ivory. Apart from the fact that I have had no say on where I get to grow up, I like the scenery that surrounds me. In the main building are the dining hall, the classrooms, the faculty offices, and other rooms that are 'forbidden' or 'out of bounds.' I don't bother myself with breaking into those rooms anymore, as most of the time it ends up with someone talking my ear off and a sequence of dutifully timed nods. To the left of the main building is the dormitory building, where both boys and girls sleep and study. This building is a long, thin and tall, with many windows. It's a bit newer than the main structure, as its predecessor was burned down about 20 years ago. No one was harmed, though. On the right side of the compound almost immediately after entering through the gates are the sports grounds. There are many fields organized neatly for rugby, field hockey, football, and cricket. Since the age groups for students at the Academy span from 6 to 18, there are different divisions of sports: ages 6-8, ages 9-11, ages 12-15, ages 16-18. Today is the first day of Christmas break. After moving my trunk to my new room 4L16 -- the fourth floor of the dormitory on the left side room number 15 -- I spent the morning walking around the Academy. ------------------ I'm absolutely terrified of stagnating. I spend a considerable portion of my mental energy considering whether I have been filling out the framework of expectations I have slowed constructed for myself, or if I have just been improving my ability to convince myself I'm doing as such -- all of this to maintain some kind of fragile self-perception. Am I legitimately growing as a person in my ability to think critically, cope with defeat, and communicate ideas, or I have I just found a detour to the same flavour of ignorance? I wish there were an easy way to evaluate myself. ---------------- “I just finished this book ______ the other day. Have you read it? _____ is quite intriguing. The language he uses seems to leave so much implicit. It's as though he has created a path of stepping stones across a big, dark lake, but has placed them as far apart as he could manage -- knowing precisely how far we can stretch to move forward. Oddly, one of the main characters reminds me in some ways of myself, and in other ways, of you. Isn't that interesting?” I nod and smile at him when he talks at me. It's too much trouble to do anything else, and I find this sentiment a bit frustrating. A novel’s upshot evokes a shared experience -- that's the whole point. He's not special -- _____ is just talented. Why do people always fucking make it about themselves? Evidently, I don't ask him this question. -------------------

NOTE: Some of these sections are just ideas I’ve partially jotted down; the ordering of these is definitely not polished by any means. 

[prakalpana]

Spring Boot Training Online: Mastering Modern Java Development

Are you ready to take your Java development skills to the next level? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of Spring Boot online course  and its powerful features. Whether you are a seasoned developer or just starting your journey, this article will equip you with the knowledge needed to build robust and scalable applications using Spring Boot. So, let's get started!

Introduction

In today's fast-paced software development landscape, frameworks that simplify the development process are highly sought after. Spring Boot course , a popular Java framework, provides a streamlined approach to building enterprise-grade applications. This article will explore the various aspects of Spring Boot, from its core principles to its deployment strategies.

What is Spring Boot?

Spring Boot is an open-source framework that aims to simplify the development of Spring-based applications. It builds on top of the Spring Framework, offering a convention-over-configuration approach that eliminates boilerplate code. With Spring Boot, developers can focus on writing business logic instead of spending time on complex configuration.

Benefits of Spring Boot

Spring Boot brings several benefits to the table, making it a go-to choice for Java developers:

1. Rapid Application Development

By leveraging Spring Boot's autoconfiguration and starter dependencies, developers can quickly set up a project and start coding without worrying about tedious configuration tasks.

2. Microservices-Friendly

spring boot microservices course training  is designed with microservices architecture in mind. It provides features like embedded servers, which simplify the deployment of standalone microservices.

3. Production-Ready Defaults

Spring Boot promotes best practices by providing sensible defaults for various aspects of application development, including security, logging, and monitoring.

4. Easy Integration with Spring Ecosystem

As Spring Boot is built on top of the Spring Framework, it seamlessly integrates with other Spring projects like Spring Data, Spring Security, and Spring Cloud.

5. Community Support

Spring Boot has a thriving community, which means there is an abundance of resources, tutorials, and libraries available to assist developers in their journey.

Getting Started with Spring Boot

Before diving deeper into Spring Boot, let's ensure you have the necessary tools set up to follow along with the examples. Here's a step-by-step guide to getting started:

Step 1: Install Java Development Kit (JDK)

To develop Spring Boot applications, you need to have Java Development Kit (JDK) installed on your machine. Visit the official Oracle website or AdoptOpenJDK to download and install the JDK version compatible with Spring Boot.

Step 2: Choose an IDE

Select an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) that suits your preferences. IntelliJ IDEA, Eclipse, and Visual Studio Code are popular choices among Java developers. Install the IDE and ensure it supports Java development.

Step 3: Set Up Build Tools

Spring Boot projects are typically built using Apache Maven or Gradle. Choose your preferred build tool and install it on your machine.

Step 4: Create a Spring Boot Project

Once your development environment is set up, you can create your first Spring Boot project. There are multiple ways to kickstart a project, including Spring Initializr, whichSpring Boot Training Online: Mastering Modern Java Development

[jaredraom905-blog]

How To Find The Right Asphalt Paving Company That Best Suits Your Needs

"If your Tom Sawyer, this should be as simple as making asphalt paving look like fun. Considering that this is probably not the case, you need to be innovative in creating ways to get a few hours of totally free labor from your buddies. I can inform you trying to do this in mid July in one hundred degree heat is not a great idea. Spring and Fall with their cooler temperatures makes the work a lot easier to bear. You are going to require some standard tools that you may have in your garden shed. Two wire framed straight backed gravel or asphalt rakes, 2 brief managed square shovels (not round point), a street broom, a metal 5 gallon pail with a metal bail, couple of gallons of kerosene or diesel fuel in a 5 gallon pail, and a pavement roller. The roller can be rented every day from lots of great leasing centers. Advice, find out how to run the roller prior to the asphalt is put and is all set to roll. The roller work is what produces the last finished product. You do not want lines and bumps and bulges all over the last pavement. If you understand anybody who has actually done any asphalt work before get him or her to be there. Bribe them with a totally free supper or beverages for a week if you have to. A simple straight driveway 10 feet large and forty feet long will take four healthy, healthy and active people to set up the asphalt. There are no rest periods once the asphalt gets to the home. Specialists use what is called a paving box that the dump truck disposes the hot asphalt into and the paving box spreads out the asphalt in the needed thickness over the entire width of the driveway at one time. The workers require to cut up the edges and hand tamp them, and draw back any ridges left by the paving box and generally make the job appearance neat and clean. When the asphalt is down, someone will use the roller to compress the hot asphalt into it's last positioning. Your going to do all the work of the paving box by hand. Keeping the asphalt level across the width of the driveway making certain there are no stacks or bulges left behind is back breaking and furious paced work.

Asphalt is hot tar, stone, sand and cement according to the mix bought however the point here is, it is melted tar. How hot? It can melt the bottoms of your Vibram soled boots in seconds and blisters on your feet are typical. The trick is to wear leather soled boots and to not stand on the hot asphalt for more than a few seconds. If your feet feel too hot, they are. A half hour before the asphalt provider says they are coming, position a little amount of kerosene in the empty metal pail and light it using some old rags. Spray the shovels and rakes with kerosene and heat them in the lit pail being mindful not to set fire to the wood handles. Decide prior to hand who are rakers and who are shovelers. Hot asphalt will not wait on conversations. As soon as the truck gets here have him set his tailgate chains to spread the asphalt to the closest density you want the asphalt to be. Remember the asphalt will shrink when the roller compresses it. A typical resident driveway is about an inch and a half thick after rolling. Start with 2 inches of asphalt on the driveway. The motorist will have the ability to spread out the asphalt however does no hand work. Once the asphalt is spread out, he's done. The work will be quick and furious till all the asphalt is raked level and formed. A forty foot driveway can take 2 hours of effort to location. Hand tamping the edges can go a little slower but keep checking the asphalt temperature level until it cools enough to bear the weight of the roller however not so cool the roller can not compress it with 2 passes. The roller ought to make each pass overlap half way onto the last lap it made. That keeps any bumps and ridges out of the ended up top. Broom off any spillage from sidewalks or public highways. When cool, asphalt is really hard to remove. Garage doors or landscaping stones for circumstances all require to be cleaned up. Location any excess in a little stacks on a piece of cardboard and it will be cake to clean up later.

Keep all car traffic off the new asphalt for a minimum of 2 days in cool weather condition and a week in very hot weather to allow the asphalt to entirely chill. Early parking can leave horrible looking dents from automobile tires. One person in a rush left his car on hot asphalt and found 4 melted flattened tires in the early morning. Tidy all your tools well prior to storing them. Keep them hot throughout the work and at the end of the task re-heat them to remove any excess asphalt. It will not come off as soon as cold. Now if any of your buddies are still talking with you, light the grille and open the kegger."

[lyndsaybones]

In Dreams 15

Chapter 1...Chapter 2…Chapter 3…Chapter 4…Chapter 5 …Chapter 6…Chapter 7…Chapter 8 …Chapter 9...Chapter10… Chapter 11…Chapter 12…Chapter 13...Chapter 14

“I just landed,” he says as he navigates his way out of the jetway.

“Hurry,” she says, her voice echoing.

“I’m coming, I’ll be there in half an hour.”

The terminal is bustling with people, like a churning sea of humanity. He finds he has a little bit of hate for each and every one of them who are slowing his ability to get out of the damned airport and closer to her.

There is a broad thunderhead moving in over the city, cleaving the blue sky in half like a long black curtain drawing. The air smells like impending rain and the heat seems to be dissipating by the minute. He slings his bag over his shoulder and makes his way to the nondescript four door rental car. He steps gingerly as an ache settles into his left leg. He wonders briefly if the healing bones will forever be an amateur forecasting tool.

He eases onto the highway, cars zipping past him at well past the speed limit. He remembers Scully jokingly referring to it as the North Texas Speedway the last time they were in town. He’s glad he remembers things like that now, although he’s not enjoying some of the other things coming back to him as much.

He navigates and finds his way to one of the local hospitals taking in the overflow of bodies and seems to find the morgue by instinct alone. The end of the hallway is guarded by a young man in fatigues with an MP armband. He passes warily and heads for the swinging doors straight ahead. Through the window, he can see her hunched over a microscope, fine tuning the view. Her pale blue scrubs are almost the same color as her eyes. A smile wells up on his face like a bubbling spring. God, he’s missed her.

She looks up and a tiny smile tugs at the corner of her mouth. It fades as quickly as it appeared as she tentatively looks around before waving him in.

He pushes the door open and notes that the room feels significantly cooler than the hallway.

“You okay?” he asks as he walks to her.

“Yeah, I’m okay,” she answers as she grabs a pair of gloves and pulls gently on his sleeve. “It’s back here.” “What is?”

He follows her to the back of the room, hovering behind her as she snaps on her gloves and opens the heavy cold storage door. She peers around the room again, clearly concerned that someone may see what they’re up to.

She secures the door behind them and pulls a small tray off of one of the shelves and holds it up in front of him as she removes a small cloth covering it.

He blinks, trying to reconcile what he’s seeing in front of him.

It’s a hand. But it’s not. Not like he’s ever seen anyway.

It looks like an opaque gelatin mold, even the bones are somewhat transparent. Severed at the wrist, it’s obviously been in a fire but the tissue has not responded in the way he knows burnt flesh ought to.

“What the hell is this?” he asks, leaning in for a better look.

“That’s what I asked,” she says with a huff.

“It looks like a jellyfish,” he remarks, stretching back up to his full height. “I assume this was pulled from the building?” he asks.

“In a manner of speaking,” she says as she covers the hand again and places it back on the shelf. “It was lodged in the abdominal cavity of another body,” she explains.

“How did it get there?”

“It was likely projected,” she says with a shrug. “Whatever it is, someone is looking for it.”

“Who?”

“I had four military police officers in here asking if anything unusual had turned up,” she says.

“Unusual how?” he asks.

“They didn’t elaborate, but I’m pretty sure that fits the bill,” she says, pointing a gloved finger at the shelf.

“Why do you think they’re looking for it?”

“To make it disappear,” she says as she pulls off the gloves and directs him out of the freezer.

“So what have you been able to find out?”

“I wasn’t able to retrieve prints, the tissue is too far gone. But the samples I was able to analyze are...disturbing,” she says.

He follows her to the microscope, trailing a couple of steps behind like a lost puppy.

“This body was exposed to a pathogen, I see signs of a massive infection,” she says as she points at a set of slides on the table.

“Is it anything you’ve seen before?” he asks as he leans down and looks into the microscope.

“It’s like nothing I’ve ever seen,” she says in a menacing whisper.

“How the hell would a body with that kind of infection get into that building?”

“I don’t know, but we’ve got to get those samples out of here,” she says.

“Well, let’s go,” he says as he waves a hand at the door.

“It’s not that simple,” she says. “The kid at the other end of the hall has been checking everyone as they leave.”

“What for?”

“‘Preservation of the chain of custody’ is the line we got,” she says incredulously.

“They think federal officers would smuggle out prosecutorial evidence?”

“Well, they’re not wrong, it just has nothing to do with prosecuting the bombing itself,” she says with a mischievous smile.

“Put the slides in your bra,” he says.

Her brow crinkles and she glances down.

“Plenty of cover in there,” he adds with a grin.

She gives him a withering look, which he loves and fears in equal measure, and frankly, deserves at the moment. But it’s true, the bras have become bigger and more utilitarian in recent weeks. Her breasts seem to be following suit. He can’t act like he hasn’t noticed.

Her mouth tightens and her eyes narrow. He can tell she’s actually considering it.

“Go watch the door,” she whispers as she snatches up the slides.

When she emerges from cold storage he is rocking back and forth on his heels expectantly.

“What about the hand?” he asks.

“How much room do think I have in there?” she asks, exasperated.

“No, I wasn’t saying...geez Scully,” he says with a chuckle. “I mean someone is gonna find it, right?”

“Not likely, I just stuffed it back in that body.”

“I guess that’s one way to get it out of here,” he says with a shrug.

She realizes, as they push through the doors, that her heart is pounding furiously. Her gut begins to churn as the doors squeak as they swing back and forth behind them. She wavers a little and his fingertips drift to the small of her back.They draw closer to the young man at the end of the hall who steps at attention in front of the elevator door.

She can’t help it, she can feel the bile rising at the back of her throat and the angry wave of nausea hitting her full force.

“Scully?” Mulder asks quietly.

“I’m gonna be sick,” she whispers with a gulp.

“You alright ma’am?” the young soldier asks.

“She’s not feeling well,” Mulder says as he wraps an arm over her shoulders.

The young man blinks and looks at her with wide eyes. He’s still blocking the elevator door, however.

“Private,” she says, trying to stifle the rising tide. “I don’t have a bag on me, neither does Agent Mulder. Nothing for you to search. Unless you’d like to invest in a new pair of boots, it might be better to just let us by.”

He looks momentarily panicked, but quickly nods and steps aside, slapping the elevator button with the palm of his hand. The doors ping and open almost instantly and she is immensely grateful.

“I hope you feel better, ma’am,” he says meekly.

“Thank you, Private,” she says as Mulder helps shuttle her into the car.

The doors slide shut and she sags against him.

“You okay?” he asks, holding her more firmly.

“I’m dizzy,” she says, closing her eyes and swallowing thickly.

“I thought you were just trying to distract him” he says.

“It wasn’t intentional,” she whispers.

“Well it worked,” he says reassuringly. “When’s the last time you took your meds?”

She closes her eyes, trying to remember when that might have been. There’ve been so many bodies, so much work, she just doesn’t remember.

“I...I dunno,” she sighs.

“Okay, let’s get back to your hotel,” he says as the doors open.

They take a few short steps together and are out of the main doors and in the cool evening air. The gathering storm looks to unleash a torrent at any moment as lightning crackles through the clouds and thunder rumbles and growls overhead.  

She squirms from his embrace and dashes to the edge of the sidewalk so she can unload her stomach in the grass. Somewhere beyond the rawness in her throat and the involuntary heaving, she can feel his hand on her back, and his fingers pulling her hair away from her face.

“It’s okay,” he says, in dulcet, soothing tones. “You’re okay.”

She coughs and spits, angry that she’s almost used to the bitter tang in her mouth and the acrid smell.

Scully dozes in the car all the way to the hotel, which he is grateful for. The rain started pattering on the windshield almost as soon as he pulled out of the parking garage. As they drive, it is only getting heavier. Cars buzz by them at mach speeds, which he wouldn’t usually mind except for how hard it is becoming to see. Blessedly, they make it without incident and now his only concern is her. Get her inside, get her medicine, get her to bed. Nothing else. The evidence, whatever she’s stumbled upon takes a very distant backseat to her well being at the moment.

“C’mon, Scully,” he says as he reaches out and taps her shoulder.

“Hm,” she sighs as she rubs her eyes.

“We’re here,” he says. “Go on in, I’ll park the car,” he tells her.

She nods and hands him her spare room key as she gets out.

He’s soaked by the time he makes it into her room. She emerges from the bathroom, barefoot, but still in her oversized scrubs. She’s got the stack of slides she smuggled out wrapped in toilet paper in her right hand.

“Oh Mulder,” she sighs, shoulders sagging.

He looks down, shifting his weight from one foot to another and feeling the squish in his socks.

“You’d better get out of those before you catch a cold,” she says as she sets the slides on her bedside table.

“Dr. Scully, you ought to know better than most that a person doesn’t catch a cold from being cold,” he says as she crouches down to untie his shoes.

“Whatever, you’re dripping everywhere,” she says as she sits on the edge of the bed.

“Did you take anything yet?” he asks, shucking out of his soaked shoes and socks.

“Zofran with a Benedryl chaser,” she says with a yawn.

He nods as he peels out of his sodden t-shirt and goes to unbutton his jeans. She doesn’t seem to take much notice as she yawns again and lays down.

“I’ll go see about a room once this stuff dries a little.”

“Oh, don’t bother,” she mumbles. “You can just stay here tonight.”

Down to nothing but his jockeys, he knows he ought to feel exposed, but he doesn’t. He sits on the other side of the bed and watches her for a moment.

“You gonna sleep in those?” he asks as he reaches out and tugs on the sleeve of her top.

“Maybe, they’re pretty comfy,” she says.

“They have blood on them,” he remarks.

She rolls to her side, curls into question mark and opens her eyes.

“Why did you do it?” she asks softly.

He could ask what she’s talking about, but he knows. Why did he take the pills, why did he hide it, why didn’t he tell her what the Gunmen had found? He reaches out and smoothes her hair behind her ear.

“Because I’m a coward,” he says. “I’m sorry, Scully. I really am.”

She closes her eyes and nods, curling in more tightly on herself, becoming even smaller.

“I am too,” she says softly.

“God, Scully. For what?”

“For basically kicking you out,” she murmurs.

“I deserved it,” he says softly.

“We’ve got a lot to figure out,” she says, her eyes drifting shut again.

“We do, but it’ll keep,” he says as he leans in and kisses her forehead.

He didn’t expect her to reach for him, but she does, her hand clutching the back of his neck and ruffling through his hair. She opens her eyes again and as quickly as he connects what’s happening, it’s already happening. Her mouth is covering his fiercely and he can’t help but moan. She unfolds like a flower and wraps around him. He can feel the mound of her little belly bumping up against him, the strong muscles of her thigh as she drapes it over his hip and squeezes. He’s never been one to struggle with getting an erection, but this is probably the fastest he’s ever gone from flaccid to rock hard in his adult life. She levers his mouth open with her tongue and her hand is raking gently through his hair as she conducts a thorough investigation of his dental fillings. He grabs a handful of her rounded ass and she jolts against him with a whimper.

She rolls away, breathless and begins working her shirt up over head. Just as quickly, he is grabbing at the thin cotton of her pants and dragging them down her legs. She shifts fully onto her back and props herself up on her elbows. She looks so different, her now ample breasts, encased in a sturdy beige bra, sitting atop the gentle swell beneath. The alarm bells start going off in his head as he kneels between her knees.

“What?” she says, chest heaving.

“Should we be doing this?” he asks nervously.

She seems to become suddenly self-conscious, drawing her legs up and together, closing off.

“I’m sorry, I don’t know what got into me,” she murmurs. Her eyes dart around, anywhere but to him.

“Scully, no, no, no,” he says, reaching for her. “I mean is it okay for the baby? Safe, I mean?”

He cups her cheek and her skin feels like rose petal. She looks up and he can see what he’s done, a thousand little transgressions and half a dozen big ones are reflected back at him.

“I just don’t want to hurt you,” he adds.

He watches her for a long moment, the blush across her chest and cheeks, the pulse thrumming under her jaw.

“Then come here,” she says, just above a whisper.

[kristablogs]

Eight ways to repel insects without bug spray

Neither bugs nor the chemical smell of commercial repellent are invited to this relaxing evening by the water. (Julie Rotter/Unsplash/)

This story was originally featured on Outdoor Life.

Unless you’re an entomologist (and on the clock), you probably hate being surrounded by bugs, especially if they bite. While these creatures play important roles in the environment, they can be a real nuisance to humans in the outdoors, and some of these bugs do transmit diseases. Your favorite store-bought bug repellent can keep them away for awhile, but what happens when the DEET can runs dry? Worse yet, what about when you’re in a survival situation and the bugs won’t leave you alone? Thankfully, there are some natural options to beat the bugs without all the chemicals.

1. Make your own repellent

Before you venture into the wild, plan ahead by creating your own bug repellent with ingredients you can feel good about. (Tim MacWelch/)

While it’s not the strongest option in the world, you can make your own bug repellent from essential oils and other household products. Make a trip to a health food store or similar shop for the essential oils (or order them online). Then you’ll be ready to blend and bottle your own bug repellent. You’ll need:

A one-quart spray bottle

1 pint distilled white vinegar

1 pint water

25 drops of tea tree oil

25 drops of lavender essential oil

Add the ingredients into a clean spray bottle and shake well. Spray your boots, clothing and skin with a generous coating before heading outside. Reapply every two to four hours for best results.

2. Check often for ticks

Ticks are more than a nuisance for our dogs. These troublesome arachnids are found in every habitat in the US, and we host more than 90 of the world’s 900 tick species. Many of these species pose a significant threat to outdoor enthusiasts, transmitting diseases such as Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, Powassan disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), ehrlichiosis, STARI (Southern tick-associated rash illness), tularemia, and other diseases. Spot them by wearing light-colored clothing and doing frequent “tick checks” throughout the day. Remove embedded ticks quickly to limit your risk of contracting a tick-borne disease. Use tweezers or a tick removal tool to grab the tick by the mouth, pinching your own skin if necessary, then pull it straight out.

3. Watch where you put your gear

Many of us put our stinking boots outside our tents at night, but there’s a risk when leaving your gear out in the open. (Tim MacWelch/)

Scorpions, spiders, centipedes, and other venomous creatures may consider your unattended boots, gloves, or other garments as a fine new home, especially if they have been undisturbed for a few hours. Then guess what happens when you suddenly pick these items up and put them on? The animal gets pressed against your skin and it bites or stings you. The venom can range from mild to intense, depending on the creature that you’ve disturbed and its size. Take scorpions as an example. With more than a thousand known scorpion species in the world, there are plenty we’ll encounter in our travels. Mercifully, there are only 25 known to carry venom that would kill a human. From that group, there’s just one that lives in the continental US. It’s the Arizona bark scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus) and its venom is on the low end of the spectrum (fatalities are very rare, usually occurring in small children and those with health problems). So how do we avoid the sting or bite? Don’t leave your clothing, gloves or footwear on the ground or outside overnight. Don’t hang your jacket on a tree. Don’t give them a chance to crawl into your open backpack. Gear that’s not being worn should be put away, closed up or otherwise moved out of the creature’s reach. Yes, it’s a pain, but it’s less painful than getting bitten or stung.

4. Use wild plants as repellents

Certain wild plants contain compounds and scents that discourage bugs—you just have to learn how to properly identify the plants and use them correctly. (Tim MacWelch/)

Depending on your environment, there may be many wild plants which contain bug-repelling compounds. Some of these may be native species and others may have been brought to this continent for various purposes. Either way, it could be very helpful to learn about the plant species that can ward off pests in the outdoors. Before you start scrubbing wild plants all over yourself, use a wild plant field guide to make 100 percent positive identification of any plant or plant part.

<b>Paw Paw (</b><i><b>Asimina triloba</b></i><b>):</b> This native tree species is commonly found along rivers and waterways throughout the eastern US. It bears large tropical-looking fruits (edible to people) that ripen in late summer. The trees also bear large ovate leaves which can be crushed and wiped on your skin as a useful insect repellent. The leaves are at their best in the spring and early summer, when their strong scent can remind us of fresh asphalt.

<b>Catnip (</b><i><b>Nepeta cataria</b></i><b>): </b>This common mint family member is a non-native species, brought to these shores for more than just driving your cat insane. A tea from the leaves can have a calming effect in humans and the plant can repel mosquitoes and other flying insects. The easiest way to use the plant is to crush the fresh leaves and stems onto your skin and clothing.

<b>Pineapple weed (</b><i><b>Matricaria matricarioides</b></i><b>):</b> Another non-native species, this unusual little wildflower doesn’t look like a pineapple but the leaves smell like it. Often found on roadsides and other disturbed ground, the feathery leaves and tender stems can be crushed and applied to skin and clothing to repel insects, especially mosquitoes.

5. Don’t forget the net

Bug netting may be your best non-chemical defense for flying insects, especially in areas where the bugs are relentless. (Pixabay/)

They don’t have to be expensive and they won’t be pretty. They might just save your sanity though, and block the transmission of disease. Mesh bug suits and netted headwear can block the bugs when they come on strong. This is much more effective than wearing multiple layers of clothing, as some people do, or by applying buckets of bug repellent. Make sure your exposed skin is covered and eliminate all gaps in your mesh suit and headwear. The only thing worse than having multiple bugs flying around inside your head net is not having a head net in the first place. Consider a sleeping net too, as these save lives in parts of the world. Mosquitos are more than just bothersome—they can transmit the malaria parasite (plasmodium, which kills over 1 million people per year globally), and many different viruses that cause encephalitis and dangerous fevers (like chikungunya, dengue, yellow fever, St. Louis encephalitis, West Nile virus, and Zika).

6. Smoke the bugs away

From foul cigars to smoldering rotten wood or cattail heads, there are plenty of ways to produce smoke, and most of these are effective at repelling insects and other pests. (Tim MacWelch/)

Some savvy fishermen know how to beat biting flies and other pests around the water. They smoke cheap (or very good) cigars when the air gets buggy. For non-smokers (and those who’ve run out of cigars), there are plenty of other options—ones that won’t get you hooked on nicotine. It turns out that any smoke can act like a natural bug repellent, though some are much better than others. Remember grandma’s cedar chest full of blankets? Cedar has long been known as a natural bug repellent and cedar bark is famous for smoldering (rather than bursting into flame). So a bundle of smoldering cedar bark can help to keep the bugs at bay, and it’s also a fine way to transport a fire in the form of embers (for example, if you were leaving one camp and moving to another).

Another option for smoke uses a plant that normally grows by the water, like cattails. The dead brown seed heads can be found atop the tall grass-like plants. Grab one of these “burnt corndogs” and apply an open flame to one end of it. Once smoldering, smoke will begin to drift out of it. Place the seed head upwind from you with the glowing end into the wind, and sit where the smoke can bathe you. Similarly, a fireproof container of crumbly rotten wood (aka punk wood) can also be lit to provide smoke. This is especially useful for “smudging” primitive survival shelters. Place the container of burning punk wood on the bare dirt floor of your shelter and allow the smoke to fill the structure. This will drive out insects, spiders and other unwelcomed guests. Repeat every few days in warmer weather, weekly or as needed in cooler weather.

7. Cover yourself with mud

It’s disgusting, but more effective at preventing bug bites than you might imagine. (Pixabay/)

You’re really serious if you go to this extreme, but certain bug-infested environments may require this drastic solution. When smoke and wild plant scents aren’t strong enough to keep the bugs off your tender skin, you can create a physical barrier by coating your skin (and any thin clothing) with a layer of mud. Not only is this an effective camouflage against humans (remember the movie Rambo?), the mud suit is also effective when hiding from bugs. With the mud fresh and wet (and after it dries into a crusty shell), you’ll be wearing a surprisingly effective barrier that most bugs will not try to penetrate. It’s also useful for hiding your scent, which could come in handy while hunting.

8. Avoid chigger habitats

Worse than poison ivy, chiggers can create itchy bumps that last up to two weeks. (Wiki Commons /)

Sometimes, avoidance is the best way to win a fight. Chiggers (red bugs and harvest mites) are tiny biting arachnids that are found globally. Here in the US, there are only two species that impact us as outdoor enthusiasts. Eutrombicula alfreddugèsi is the main culprit, and the recently hatched larvae are the troublemakers. Too small to see with the naked eye, these hatchlings are hungry for any blood they can find (human or animal). Though they don’t transmit diseases, the intense itching of their bites can last for weeks. This has led to the popular (and incorrect) belief that these creatures burrow under your skin. In actuality, the larvae inject an enzyme into your skin, dissolving some skin cells (for them to drink) and hardening other skin cells (to make a “drinking straw” known as a stylostome). It’s this transformed tissue that causes such a severe itch, not a bug under your skin.

The best defense is to avoid likely breeding grounds where the larvae would be plentiful. Since they dry out easily, damp grassy areas, swampy spots, low lying and riverine environments are hot spots. Avoid these in late spring and early summer. If you do suspect you’ve wandered through their domain (due to a sensation of tiny prickly bites under your clothes), change your clothing immediately. They can crawl around in your clothes for hours, biting you in many different places. If you only had one set of clothes (say, in a survival setting), take the clothing off and hang them to dry for 30 minutes by a hot fire (socks and underwear too). This dry heat will kill the larvae.

[scootoaster]

Eight ways to repel insects without bug spray

Neither bugs nor the chemical smell of commercial repellent are invited to this relaxing evening by the water. (Julie Rotter/Unsplash/)

This story was originally featured on Outdoor Life.

Unless you’re an entomologist (and on the clock), you probably hate being surrounded by bugs, especially if they bite. While these creatures play important roles in the environment, they can be a real nuisance to humans in the outdoors, and some of these bugs do transmit diseases. Your favorite store-bought bug repellent can keep them away for awhile, but what happens when the DEET can runs dry? Worse yet, what about when you’re in a survival situation and the bugs won’t leave you alone? Thankfully, there are some natural options to beat the bugs without all the chemicals.

1. Make your own repellent

Before you venture into the wild, plan ahead by creating your own bug repellent with ingredients you can feel good about. (Tim MacWelch/)

While it’s not the strongest option in the world, you can make your own bug repellent from essential oils and other household products. Make a trip to a health food store or similar shop for the essential oils (or order them online). Then you’ll be ready to blend and bottle your own bug repellent. You’ll need:

A one-quart spray bottle

1 pint distilled white vinegar

1 pint water

25 drops of tea tree oil

25 drops of lavender essential oil

Add the ingredients into a clean spray bottle and shake well. Spray your boots, clothing and skin with a generous coating before heading outside. Reapply every two to four hours for best results.

2. Check often for ticks

Ticks are more than a nuisance for our dogs. These troublesome arachnids are found in every habitat in the US, and we host more than 90 of the world’s 900 tick species. Many of these species pose a significant threat to outdoor enthusiasts, transmitting diseases such as Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, Powassan disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), ehrlichiosis, STARI (Southern tick-associated rash illness), tularemia, and other diseases. Spot them by wearing light-colored clothing and doing frequent “tick checks” throughout the day. Remove embedded ticks quickly to limit your risk of contracting a tick-borne disease. Use tweezers or a tick removal tool to grab the tick by the mouth, pinching your own skin if necessary, then pull it straight out.

3. Watch where you put your gear

Many of us put our stinking boots outside our tents at night, but there’s a risk when leaving your gear out in the open. (Tim MacWelch/)

Scorpions, spiders, centipedes, and other venomous creatures may consider your unattended boots, gloves, or other garments as a fine new home, especially if they have been undisturbed for a few hours. Then guess what happens when you suddenly pick these items up and put them on? The animal gets pressed against your skin and it bites or stings you. The venom can range from mild to intense, depending on the creature that you’ve disturbed and its size. Take scorpions as an example. With more than a thousand known scorpion species in the world, there are plenty we’ll encounter in our travels. Mercifully, there are only 25 known to carry venom that would kill a human. From that group, there’s just one that lives in the continental US. It’s the Arizona bark scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus) and its venom is on the low end of the spectrum (fatalities are very rare, usually occurring in small children and those with health problems). So how do we avoid the sting or bite? Don’t leave your clothing, gloves or footwear on the ground or outside overnight. Don’t hang your jacket on a tree. Don’t give them a chance to crawl into your open backpack. Gear that’s not being worn should be put away, closed up or otherwise moved out of the creature’s reach. Yes, it’s a pain, but it’s less painful than getting bitten or stung.

4. Use wild plants as repellents

Certain wild plants contain compounds and scents that discourage bugs—you just have to learn how to properly identify the plants and use them correctly. (Tim MacWelch/)

Depending on your environment, there may be many wild plants which contain bug-repelling compounds. Some of these may be native species and others may have been brought to this continent for various purposes. Either way, it could be very helpful to learn about the plant species that can ward off pests in the outdoors. Before you start scrubbing wild plants all over yourself, use a wild plant field guide to make 100 percent positive identification of any plant or plant part.

<b>Paw Paw (</b><i><b>Asimina triloba</b></i><b>):</b> This native tree species is commonly found along rivers and waterways throughout the eastern US. It bears large tropical-looking fruits (edible to people) that ripen in late summer. The trees also bear large ovate leaves which can be crushed and wiped on your skin as a useful insect repellent. The leaves are at their best in the spring and early summer, when their strong scent can remind us of fresh asphalt.

<b>Catnip (</b><i><b>Nepeta cataria</b></i><b>): </b>This common mint family member is a non-native species, brought to these shores for more than just driving your cat insane. A tea from the leaves can have a calming effect in humans and the plant can repel mosquitoes and other flying insects. The easiest way to use the plant is to crush the fresh leaves and stems onto your skin and clothing.

<b>Pineapple weed (</b><i><b>Matricaria matricarioides</b></i><b>):</b> Another non-native species, this unusual little wildflower doesn’t look like a pineapple but the leaves smell like it. Often found on roadsides and other disturbed ground, the feathery leaves and tender stems can be crushed and applied to skin and clothing to repel insects, especially mosquitoes.

5. Don’t forget the net

Bug netting may be your best non-chemical defense for flying insects, especially in areas where the bugs are relentless. (Pixabay/)

They don’t have to be expensive and they won’t be pretty. They might just save your sanity though, and block the transmission of disease. Mesh bug suits and netted headwear can block the bugs when they come on strong. This is much more effective than wearing multiple layers of clothing, as some people do, or by applying buckets of bug repellent. Make sure your exposed skin is covered and eliminate all gaps in your mesh suit and headwear. The only thing worse than having multiple bugs flying around inside your head net is not having a head net in the first place. Consider a sleeping net too, as these save lives in parts of the world. Mosquitos are more than just bothersome—they can transmit the malaria parasite (plasmodium, which kills over 1 million people per year globally), and many different viruses that cause encephalitis and dangerous fevers (like chikungunya, dengue, yellow fever, St. Louis encephalitis, West Nile virus, and Zika).

6. Smoke the bugs away

From foul cigars to smoldering rotten wood or cattail heads, there are plenty of ways to produce smoke, and most of these are effective at repelling insects and other pests. (Tim MacWelch/)

Some savvy fishermen know how to beat biting flies and other pests around the water. They smoke cheap (or very good) cigars when the air gets buggy. For non-smokers (and those who’ve run out of cigars), there are plenty of other options—ones that won’t get you hooked on nicotine. It turns out that any smoke can act like a natural bug repellent, though some are much better than others. Remember grandma’s cedar chest full of blankets? Cedar has long been known as a natural bug repellent and cedar bark is famous for smoldering (rather than bursting into flame). So a bundle of smoldering cedar bark can help to keep the bugs at bay, and it’s also a fine way to transport a fire in the form of embers (for example, if you were leaving one camp and moving to another).

Another option for smoke uses a plant that normally grows by the water, like cattails. The dead brown seed heads can be found atop the tall grass-like plants. Grab one of these “burnt corndogs” and apply an open flame to one end of it. Once smoldering, smoke will begin to drift out of it. Place the seed head upwind from you with the glowing end into the wind, and sit where the smoke can bathe you. Similarly, a fireproof container of crumbly rotten wood (aka punk wood) can also be lit to provide smoke. This is especially useful for “smudging” primitive survival shelters. Place the container of burning punk wood on the bare dirt floor of your shelter and allow the smoke to fill the structure. This will drive out insects, spiders and other unwelcomed guests. Repeat every few days in warmer weather, weekly or as needed in cooler weather.

7. Cover yourself with mud

It’s disgusting, but more effective at preventing bug bites than you might imagine. (Pixabay/)

You’re really serious if you go to this extreme, but certain bug-infested environments may require this drastic solution. When smoke and wild plant scents aren’t strong enough to keep the bugs off your tender skin, you can create a physical barrier by coating your skin (and any thin clothing) with a layer of mud. Not only is this an effective camouflage against humans (remember the movie Rambo?), the mud suit is also effective when hiding from bugs. With the mud fresh and wet (and after it dries into a crusty shell), you’ll be wearing a surprisingly effective barrier that most bugs will not try to penetrate. It’s also useful for hiding your scent, which could come in handy while hunting.

8. Avoid chigger habitats

Worse than poison ivy, chiggers can create itchy bumps that last up to two weeks. (Wiki Commons /)

Sometimes, avoidance is the best way to win a fight. Chiggers (red bugs and harvest mites) are tiny biting arachnids that are found globally. Here in the US, there are only two species that impact us as outdoor enthusiasts. Eutrombicula alfreddugèsi is the main culprit, and the recently hatched larvae are the troublemakers. Too small to see with the naked eye, these hatchlings are hungry for any blood they can find (human or animal). Though they don’t transmit diseases, the intense itching of their bites can last for weeks. This has led to the popular (and incorrect) belief that these creatures burrow under your skin. In actuality, the larvae inject an enzyme into your skin, dissolving some skin cells (for them to drink) and hardening other skin cells (to make a “drinking straw” known as a stylostome). It’s this transformed tissue that causes such a severe itch, not a bug under your skin.

The best defense is to avoid likely breeding grounds where the larvae would be plentiful. Since they dry out easily, damp grassy areas, swampy spots, low lying and riverine environments are hot spots. Avoid these in late spring and early summer. If you do suspect you’ve wandered through their domain (due to a sensation of tiny prickly bites under your clothes), change your clothing immediately. They can crawl around in your clothes for hours, biting you in many different places. If you only had one set of clothes (say, in a survival setting), take the clothing off and hang them to dry for 30 minutes by a hot fire (socks and underwear too). This dry heat will kill the larvae.

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2018 Nissan Pathfinder Vs. 2018 Volvo XC90

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31 of the Best Sales to Shop This Black Friday Weekend

Holiday shopping is a season in and of itself. And it begins this week with Black Friday (November 29) and Cyber Monday (December 2) joining forces to create (arguably) the biggest weekend in retail.

For the first time, Shopify has compiled a report unveiling shopping predictions for the Black Friday weekend. Offering insight on Canadian consumer spending behaviour during this time, Shopify reports that online shopping will garner the most sales, with 58 per cent of Canadians planning to shop exclusively online. Canadian consumers favouring online shopping indicate the reasons for doing so are related to exclusive sales, competitive prices, free shipping and time saving. Shopify also reports that consumers plan to spend an average of $458 this season. There’s a good chance they’re spending that on electronics and apparel, which are predicted to be the top selling products this year.

Shopify also noted that 65 per cent of Canadians do a lot of product research before buying so to help, we’ve compiled a list of 31 of the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals for you to plan for.

Happy shopping!

1. Aldo

On Black Friday enjoy 50 per cent off the original price of sale styles and 20 per cent off regular-priced styles. On Cyber Monday, receive 25 per cent off when you buy two styles. All offers are available both in-store and online.

Shop it here.

2. All Birds

On Black Friday, three new limited-edition patterned runners will launch at All Birds. But the party doesn’t end here. On Cyber Monday, another three limited-edition pairs of running shoes will drop, this time in dessert-inspired colours (yum).

Shop it here.

3. BonLook

At BonLook, sale prices on specs will range from $45 to $105 this weekend. And get this: On November 26 and 27 receive 30 per cent off, from November 28 to December 1 receive 50 per cent off, and on December 2 and 3 receive 70 per cent off your purchase.

Shop it here.

4. Call it Spring

Enjoy a little preview on November 25 and take an extra 50 per cent off sale items. On November 29 take an extra 50 per cent off sale items and 30 per cent off regular priced items. On December 2, save an extra 50 per cent off sale items and 30 per cent off regular-priced items, plus keep your eyes open for an exclusive online promo.

Shop it here.

5. Club Monaco

On Black Friday, Club Monaco is offering 30 per cent off everything in-store and online with promo code BLACKFRIDAY. Plus, you can enjoy free shipping with a minimum spend of $150. On Cyber Monday, take 30 per cent off everything, and an extra 40 per cent off sale styles using the promo code CYBERMONDAY.

Shop it here.

6. Fleur du Mal

From November 22 to November 28, take 30 per cent off everything (excluding the Essential Collection and new arrivals). From November 29 to December 2, take an additional 30 per cent off sale prices with promo code TAKEITOFF30.

Shop it here.

7. Frank And Oak

At Frank and Oak, take 30 per cent off in-store and online from November 27 to December 1. This year, the brand has also partnered with One Tree Planted — for every purchase made, Frank And Oak will plant a tree in the Peruvian Amazon to help support global reforestation.

Shop it here.

8. Glossier

This Black Friday will mark the first that Glossier has ever participated in the weekend. From Friday until Monday, the brand is offering 20 per cent off its entire product offering and will also launch 15 limited edition gift sets to save you even more money.

Shop it here.

9. Hunter

What better time to stock-up on rain and snow boots? From November 25 to December 2, take 20 per cent off everything at the Yorkdale Shopping Centre flagship store. Take 25 per cent off select collections online, and an extra 10 per cent off sale items. Plus, exclusive daily deals will be offered on an assortment of classic Hunter boots.

Shop it here.

10. Kerastase

We all know the holidays call for good hair days. We also know how rare a good hair day is. From November 22 to December 1, use code BF19 / VF19 when you spend $100 on products and tools and get a complimentary travel-size product with a pouch, or spend $150 and get two travel sizes with a pouch.

Shop it here.

11. Knix

From November 25 to December 2, Knix is offering 20 to 50 per cent off site-wide. Plus, mystery bags containing a bundle of either leakproof or essential underwear (you pick your size and preferred silhouette, and Knix picks your colours) are offered at a discount. On Black Friday itself, receive a free Longevity Bra with any purchase above $150. On Cyber Monday, receive a free pair of Thigh Savers with any purchase above $150.

Shop it here.

12. Kotn

Rather than promoting excessive consumerism, Kotn is giving people the power and platform to help create change. For the third year in a row, 100 per cent of Kotn’s proceeds from Black Friday through Cyber Monday (plus 1 per cent of regular sales) will go toward building two schools in Egypt’s Nile Delta and Faiyum — which is where all the cotton used by Kotn is grown. Consumer’s purchases are directly benefiting the farmers and their families, “giving back to the community who helps the brand create their collection, in true holiday spirit.”

Shop it here.

13. Kristin Ess

From November 28 to December 1, get 30 per cent off all Kristin Ess hair tools (available at Target.com). Plus, check out three special offers: The One Signature Fragrance for $20, Style Assist Medium Detangling Brush + Do it All Sectioning Clips Set for $15 and Frizz Reducing Satin Pillowcase + French Pin Set for $15.

Shop it here.

14. Le Chateau

Enjoy 50 per cent off dresses, suiting separates, shoes, boots and more.

Shop it here.

15. Mejuri

The hot direct-to-consumer jewellery brand is having a site-wide sale from November 27 to December 2. With mostly every product included, take 10 per cent off one item, 15 per cent off two items and 20 per cent off three or more items.

Shop it here.

16. Nobis

In an exclusive online launch, a limited-edition capsule collection of winter puffer coats, straight from Seoul, South Korea, will be available for purchase beginning on Black Friday at 9 am.

Shop it here.

17. Nordstrom

From November 27 to December 2, Nordstrom Canada will have over 1000 items at up to 50 per cent off. On top of finding those great bargains, they are offering e-gift cards with specific purchases: Spend $125, get $25. Spend $250, get $50. Spend $400, get $100.

Shop it here.

18. Nordstrom Rack Canada

Nordstrom Rack Canada is offering on-trend pieces from many of the top brands at Nordstrom at an additional 30 per cent off on red-tag clearance items from November 29 to December 2.

Shop it here.

19. NYX

In-store from November 27 to December 2, everything (excluding Holiday) is 30 per cent off, plus an additional 50 per cent off will be offered on “last chance items.” Online from November 28 to 30, NYX is offering 30 per cent off everything (excluding Holiday), plus an additional 50 per cent off “last chance items.” On Cyber Monday, take 30 per cent off everything (excluding Holiday).

Shop it here.

20. Pandora

In-store purchases across Canada are 35 per cent off on November 28 and 29.

Shop it here.

21. Poppy & Peonies

Stock up on cute handbags and accessories for everyone on your gift list this year with 40 per cent off select styles.

Shop it here.

22. Reformation

Shop sustainably and find your perfect holiday dress this weekend. Starting November 29 through December 2, everything on the Reformation site will be 30 per cent off.

Shop it here.

23. Roots

From November 27 to December 2, take 30 per cent off in-store and online. Plus, there will be six daily offers at 40 per cent off on the following items: sleepwear, outerwear and accessories, Salt & Pepper collection, Cabin collection, Laurel collection sweats and Park Plaid collection.

Shop it here.

24. Rudsak

In anticipation of another bitterly cold winter, grab some Rudsak coats at 50 per cent off the original price, beginning Friday.

Shop it here.

25. Sheertex

The makers of the world’s only unbreakable pantyhose is launching “All That Glitters” on November 27, in partnership with Roxy Earle. The five shimmery tights in this exclusive collection are buy one, get one free through December 3, while the other products are 25 per cent off site-wide.

Shop it here.

26. Shu Uemura

The Japanese makeup brand is offering 25 per cent off site-wide, and a gift-with-purchase on orders of $50 or more.

Shop it here.

27. Taikan

Want the aesthetic of tomorrow? Get 30 per cent off these quality, Canadian lifestyle bags.

Shop it here.

28. Ten Thousand Villages

On Black Friday through December 1, get 25 per cent off your entire purchase. Beginning November 30 until December 1, watch out for Cyber Monday flash sales of up to 70 per cent off select products. Plus, on Cyber Monday, receive 30 per cent off online.

Shop it here.

29. The Body Shop

From November 21 to December 2, take 40 per cent off storewide and 25 per cent off pre-packaged gifts. Plus, grab the Filled Seasonal Tote (worth $101) for just $45. From November 28 to 29, enjoy half-priced gift cubes at just $5.

Shop it here.

30. Thursday Plantation

All of the naturally- and oil-derived restorative skin products from Thursday Plantation are 20 per cent off until December 2.

Shop it here.

31. Tissot

From November 29 to December 2, take 40 to 50 per cent off. The watch brand will also be discounting 50 pieces.

Shop it here.

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