#but outdoorsy gear is expensive
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Loving reminder to everyone to buy micro-spikes, hiking poles, down jackets, snow boots, and anything else you need to survive snow if you live somewhere that lacks the infrastructure to cope with it.
Every sidewalk and street in my neighbourhood was an inclined sheet of ice last winter because the city seems to have one (1) snowplough and also no one owns snow shovels because no one ever needed to before.
I was comfy and prepared because I am a skier and a hiker, so I just have snow gear kicking around my closet. But you, too, should feel safe and comfortable this winter 💙
#ask your friendly staff at MEC or REI#Black Friday is evil let’s leave that as a given#but outdoorsy gear is expensive#so do what you gotta#pnw#british columbia#washington#oregon#snowpocalypse#pacific northwest#PSA#safety#survival
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Best Hiking Sunglasses for Men in 2023
As outdoor enthusiasts, we understand the importance of having the right gear to make your hiking adventures safe and enjoyable. While hiking boots, backpacks, and clothing often take the spotlight, one vital accessory that shouldn't be overlooked is a pair of high-quality sunglasses. In 2023, the market offers an array of exceptional men's hiking sunglasses, each boasting its unique features and considerations. This guide will acquaint you with the finest hiking sunglasses for men this year, highlighting their key attributes and benefits. Additionally, we'll undertake a comparison of these five sunglasses to provide you with the insights required to make an informed choice.
Oakley Flak 2.0 XL
Introduction: Oakley has long been synonymous with high-quality eyewear, and the Flak 2.0 XL lives up to that reputation. These sunglasses offer exceptional UV protection and are designed for rugged outdoor adventures. The lightweight O-Matter frame ensures comfort during long hikes, and the Prizm lens technology enhances clarity.
Pros: Excellent clarity, lightweight, comfortable, and interchangeable lenses.
Cons: Higher price point, limited style options.
Smith Outlier 2
Introduction: The Smith Outlier 2 sunglasses are a fantastic choice for individuals seeking eyewear that seamlessly combines style and performance. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, an urban explorer, or simply someone who values both fashion and functionality, these sunglasses have a lot to offer.
Pros: Enhanced color perception, durable construction, comfortable fit.
Cons: Slightly heavier than some competitors, limited frame color options.
Smith Parallel Max 2
Introduction: The Smith Parallel Max 2 sunglasses are perfect for those seeking versatility. They come with interchangeable lenses, allowing you to adapt to changing light conditions. These sunglasses also feature a hydrophilic nose pad and temple tips for a secure fit.
Pros: Great coverage, anti-fog technology, multiple lens options, lightweight.Cons: Limited style choices, may not fit smaller faces well.
Cons: Limited style choices, may not fit smaller faces well.
Costa Del Mar Rincon
Introduction: Costa Del Mar Rincon sunglasses are a popular eyewear choice known for their high-quality construction and excellent performance, especially in outdoor and water-related activities. These sunglasses are designed to provide exceptional protection against the sun's harmful rays while offering stylish and comfortable options for those who enjoy spending time outdoors.
Pros: Superior polarization, comfortable fit, wide field of view.
Cons: Limited frame color options, relatively high cost.
Maui Jim Ho'okipa
Introduction: Maui Jim Ho'okipa sunglasses are a popular eyewear choice known for their high-quality lenses and stylish design. These sunglasses are designed with a focus on providing exceptional visual clarity, eye protection, and comfort for wearers, especially in bright and sunny conditions.
Pros: Outstanding glare protection, stylish design, lightweight, scratch-resistant lenses.
Cons: Limited coverage, not the best choice for extreme sports.
Comparison:
Price: Oakley Flak 2.0 XL and Costa Del Mar Rincon are expensive, while Smith Outlier 2 and Smith Parallel Max 2 are moderately priced. Maui Jim Ho'okipa is also on the higher end.
Protection: Julbo Explorer 2.0 offers maximum protection with removable side shields. Costa Del Mar Rincon has excellent polarization for glare reduction. Oakley Flak 2.0 XL and Maui Jim Ho'okipa provide strong UV protection.
Comfort: Smith Outlier 2 and Oakley Flak 2.0 XL are comfortable for long wear. Smith Parallel Max 2 offers adaptability with interchangeable lenses.
Style: Oakley Flak 2.0 XL and Smith Outlier 2 have a sleek, sporty look. Julbo Explorer 2.0 and Costa Del Mar Rincon have outdoorsy designs. Maui Jim Ho'okipa combines style with functionality for sunny environments.
Conclusion: The best hiking sunglasses for men in 2023 depend on your specific needs and budget. For all-around performance, the Oakley Flak 2.0 XL, Smith Outlier 2, Smith Parallel Max 2, Costa Del Mar Rincon, and Maui Jim Ho'okipa are solid choices. If protection is your top priority, consider the Costa Del Mar Rincon. Finally, if you're on a tight budget, the Smith Parallel Max 2 offers good value for the price.
Finding the perfect hiking sunglasses transcends merely the frame; it delves into the realm of lenses, where every detail matters. This is where MRY enters the scene. MRY is your go-to destination for precision-crafted replacement lenses designed for premium brands such as Oakley, Smith, Costa Del Mar, and Maui Jim.
Incorporating MRY lenses into your eyewear equips you with an arsenal of advantages: impeccable clarity, fortified UV protection, and the freedom to tailor your lenses to your liking. MRY doesn't just elevate your vision; it elevates your entire outdoor experience.
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saw a tiktok the other day about adding your own niche interests to fanfic and that spiraled into an idea for a ofmd modern day birdwatching au. i doubt i’ll ever get around to writing it but here is my general premise and character ideas!!
stede bonnet recently fell in love with birds and is trying to get into birdwatching as a hobby, so he signs up for a bird walk with ornithologist edward teach. here, he becomes even more infatuated with birds, and maybe becomes interested in someone else too, so it’s all too easy to sign up for another walk.
and of course, our beloved crew are also regulars of ed’s bird walks. birdwatching-related shenanigans ensue!
characters:
stede: middle-aged recent divorcee and father of two, looking for something new in his life, saw a cool bird once and fell down the birding rabbit hole after researching it, bought a bunch of nice equipment but doesn’t know how to use it, thinks birds are cool and pretty, knows pretty much nothing else, but he wants to learn!! favorite bird: northern cardinal
ed: ornithologist and big name in the birding world, chair of his local audubon society in his free time, can tell you everything about every native bird in the area, expert at calls and identifying, but is losing the magic that got him to love birds, getting bored, starts up bird walks for the community to try to bring the love back. favorite bird: american crow
izzy: co-leads walks with ed but no one likes him nearly as much, has worked with ed for years, currently doing research with ed, they get along well and work fine together but in the same way a bickering old couple does, really trying to push ed to keep with research even as ed is falling out of passion, feels threatened by stede and everyone knows it but him, does a lot of the organizational parts of the walks and does not get credit for it, gets visibly annoyed whenever stede talks and is very happy to correct stede when he identifies a species incorrectly. favorite bird: great horned owl
lucius: local college student studying environmental science, knows a lot and is chill about it but is silently judging you because you mixed up a song sparrow and house sparrow, dutifully records every species he sees and how many on ebird because Science, stede is friendly with him and lucius is only mildly happy about it but lets him stick around him anyway, always makes sure to point out to stede what he sees, when he isn’t using his binoculars or recording a sighting he is holding hands with pete. favorite bird: yellow-rumped warbler
black pete: goes to walks for ed because he’s a big fan, has read all of ed’s books and mentions it a lot, claims to have studied under ed when he was an undergrad and ed was a professor but can’t really prove it, always stays near the front of the group, gets excited about the birds very easily and is very passionate about birding and lucius is the only one who can calm him down, always shows up in full outdoors gear whether necessary or not, lowkey gets annoyed when people misidentify things but is working on it. favorite bird: belted kingfisher
jim: always shows up with oluwande, quiet, stays in the back and makes quick remarks making fun of people under their breath, only really talks to oluwande, will not tell you what they see until after the fact when it has already flown away, crazy good photographer and can always get a clear shot of the birds, carries around a fancy expensive camera with a huge lens that is their pride and joy, has 50k followers on their bird photography instagram, still wears the big wide-brimmed hat it’s just one of those outdoorsy ones with the string that goes around the chin. favorite bird: green heron
oluwande: always shows up with jim, reluctant mom of the group, scolds you for not wearing bug spray but pulls some out of his bag for you to use anyway, always has a field guide in hand for reference, makes sure everyone is with the group and no one is lost, great bird walk conversationalist, softie at heart but knows how to push jim’s buttons (even though they don’t mind), big on bird twitter for his jokes and for always being the first to report on rare bird sightings in the area, also posts jim’s photography #supportiveboyfriend, always wearing signature orange baseball cap, crocs are his birding shoe of choice no matter the location. favorite bird: mourning dove
frenchie: believes the ivory-billed woodpecker is still out there and will tell you about the time he saw one, has been in local birding circles for years, knows his shit but is nonchalant about it, jots everything he sees down in a notebook and refuses to use ebird or anything similar because it “ruins the sanctity of birding” and he doesn’t trust Big Tech, scared of bugs, big on environmentalism. favorite bird: pileated woodpecker
roach: big into hunting, started going to walks to get better at finding birds to shoot but ends up liking birding more, always has a big hunting knife on his waistband and whips it out anytime he hears a twig snap, makes baked goods for the group and brings them for an after-bird-walk snack, knows a lot about hawks and other birds of prey. favorite bird: turkey vulture
wee john: will hold back low hanging tree branches for you so you don’t get whacked in the head, primary bird interest is ducks, not as interested in songbirds and other smaller species but comes along anyway because he loves a nice walk, generally quiet but is quick with witty remarks, calls all birds he sees no matter what species “tiny baby” or “little lad” or some other term of endearment. favorite bird: wood duck
buttons: almost weirdly knowledgeable and overly passionate about shorebirds, can always find a gull even if they’re somewhere where there should not be a gull, when the walk is near the ocean one particular gull he calls “karl” will find him and sit on his head and no one knows how he does it, never carries binoculars but can always still see and identify the birds perfectly, shows up to walks with nothing but himself but is perfectly fine anyway and is probably one of the best birders in the group. favorite bird: red-billed gull
the swede: beginner but very enthusiastic, not good at birding but absolutely loves birding, can’t remember species names for shit but is great at finding birds and pointing them out, no one likes him but everybody loves him, great at mimicking calls and really wants to show you. favorite bird: common grackle
fang: part of ed and izzy’s research team, besties with ivan, loves birds and birdwatching so much and can’t get enough, loves animals in general, points out other wildlife seen on walks like squirrels and such, always brings bird seed and can get birds to eat out of his hand somehow, you want to walk with him he’s great company, will start crying if he sees something cute. favorite bird: black-capped chickadee
ivan: part of ed and izzy’s research team, besties with fang, lowkey hates izzy but is along for the ride, definitely too experienced to be there but is enjoying himself anyway, has the best birding tips, definitely not afraid to go off path to follow a bird he hears. favorite bird: red-winged blackbird
in conclusion i love birds and i love the silly gay pirates and i had way too much fun thinking this up.
#ofmd#our flag means death#ofmd au#ofmd modern au#ofmd birdwatching au#birdwatching au#this is ridiculous but i love it#i love birds#loosely based off of people i've met during bird walks#or just fun ideas based on the birding community#technically this would take place in the northeast us because that's where i'm from and what birds i know#and i don't feel like researching setting-accurate birds sorry#except for the red billed gull which is actually the species for karl and is native to nz#i had to make karl accurate of course#this is probably only entertaining to a very niche audience but idc#long live the birds
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What do you think would be the perfect gift for each friend + Kaycee and Ethan (and Casey & Tobias), if they do Secret Santa? (assuming there’s a lower budget so no vacations or jewelry like it would be between your pairing). Who would be the easiest and the most difficult person to buy a gift for?
Hey there Nonny,
You know, even with my pairings, super big price tag items would be the exception, not the rule. They tend to not want to make it about materialism, though on occasion, they splurge.
But when it comes to friends, hmm.. let's see? Do we have a budget? lol
Sienna: I can see baking items, her favorite scented candles, or her favorite perfume, which is a little pricey, but she'll never treat herself.
Jackie: Gift cards to her favorite restaurant or salon/spa she likes to go to. Nothing elaborate, but it will allow her to treat herself, which she normally doesn't do.
Elijah: Video games. Though they can be expensive from what I understand (I don't really play).
Bryce: His favorite cologne, his favorite liquor, tickets to an inexpensive but fun local event.
Aurora: I imagine she's always cold for some reason, so warm pajamas, fluffy slippers, snuggies, and such.
Raj: I picture him owning a car. I picture him living further out of the city center of Boston, and he needs to take Vovo to appointments and such. So perhaps something for his car, like a cool cell phone holder or a carvac. If not, I see him being outdoorsy, so maybe some warm winter gear for the Boston cold.
Harper: Something gourmet - coffee, candies, a fruit and nut basket.
Tobias (in Kaycee/Ethan world) - Something music-related. Or his favorite cologne or a gift card for a massage.
Ethan (in Tobias/Casey world) - A bottle of scotch, but not the ones he likes the most, because $$$$. So a bottle of wine may be an alternative. I imagine he likes Port (which can also be $$$$, but they'll work it out.) lol Otherwise, a Derry's Gift Card.
Casey/Kaycee: They tend to prefer experience-based gifts. So gift cards to the movies or a local cafe where they could go together and have some fun. Maybe Bryce would get her one for the go-cart place, etc.
Thanks for the ask!
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From Side Hustle to CEO: Start a Profitable Business
So, you have this really cool hobby you love, right? Like making art or yummy foods? Wouldn't it be amazing to do that all day as your actual job?! Well, you totally can! Let me share the thrill of turning your passion project into your full-time gig.
First off, you started your little hobby just for fun. But then people saw your stuff and wanted to buy it! So cool that you made some spare cash from your pastime. Now it's time to make that side hustle bigger.
You'll need money to stock up on more supplies and gear. Ask your parents for a small loan or use some savings. Or look into fast financing online - those quick funds can really boost your growing business!
Next, get the word out about your awesome products. Share pics and videos on social media, and tell the story behind your brand. Make a basic website, too, where fans can easily browse and buy.
As sales grow steadily, consider getting a small storefront or market stall. Having an in-person presence creates more popularity and foot traffic. Congrats, you're an official small business owner now!
Money to Grow Your Company
Okay, so your side gig is growing and making decent cash. But you're still balancing another job and the hobby hustle. Time to see if income could cover living costs full-time. Make a bullet list of expenses - rent, bills, marketing, inventory, etc. Pay yourself a good salary, too!
If the money maths looks good, put together a real business plan. Get tips from mentors who grew their own passion projects into careers. Look into bigger business loans for more money to grow.
With careful prep and planning, you can securely jump in as your own boss! It doesn't get much cooler than making a living off your beloved hobby.
Find Your Spark
You started this side hustle because you totally love it. But to make it a real business, you need that special something. The "wow factor" that makes folks go gaga over your products.
What parts of your crafts or services do people adore most? Is it your super unique designs? Or maybe your warm, friendly service? Ask buyers for honest feedback on what sparked their interest.
Do some digging to see if there's big enough demand too. Look at the competition - what are you doing differently? Highlight those special strengths that truly stand out.
Build an awesome brand identity showing off your signature style. Consistent, quality branding helps customers quickly recognise your flair. And lets you charge prices reflecting premium value!
Map Your Journey
Putting goals and an action plan in place is key. Having a roadmap with milestones motivates you to keep hustling. List out all steps needed to grow from here.
Craft a full business plan covering every part of operations - hiring staff, getting equipment, shipping products, and promoting your brand. Running the numbers exposes costs, cash needs, and profit potential, too.
Tap advisors and mentors who've grown successful small businesses before. Their wisdom guides you around potential roadblocks. An experienced support team provides super valuable advice.
Money Savvy
Managing cash carefully lets you reinvest wisely into growth. Cut needless costs, draining funds like subscriptions you don't use. Go lean, embracing efficient, money-saving processes. Automate tasks with cool apps and tech.
Diligent bookkeeping is a must. Knowing cash flow highlights areas wasting money or making profits. That financial data informs all big decisions.
Brand Building
Having an awesome product isn't enough to be successful. You need a super strong brand that people instantly recognise and love. Branding is what makes customers pick your crafts over others.
First, define your brand's whole vibe and personality. What adjectives capture the spirit you want folks to feel? Fun and quirky? Classy and chic? Outdoorsy and rustic? This guides all visuals and messaging.
Next, design an eye-catching logo representing your brand's essence. Use fonts, icons, and colors to fit that personality. But keep it simple enough to be recognizable and tiny on products or profiles.
Visuals and words across all platforms should match seamlessly from your website to social media bios and product shots. Consistent branding builds trust that you're a legit, quality brand.
Speaking of online presence, leverage social media to full effect! Share behind-the-scenes peeks of your process. Spotlight unique materials or special techniques. Get customers invested in your brand story and values.
Sales Strategies
Okay, you've got a standout brand. Now it's time to push sales! There are many easy ways to boost interest and revenue both online and in person.
On your website, use high-quality photos showcasing products from all angles. Write a fun, descriptive captions enticing shoppers. Offer product bundles at discounted prices to increase order values.
For social commerce, utilise Instagram shopping and Facebook Marketplace features. Tag products directly in feed posts so folks can instantly checkout. Run flash sales generating urgency and excitement.
Cultivate an email list by collecting addresses across platforms. Send regular newsletters spotlighting new products and promotions. Include personalised discount codes compelling fans to buy.
Offer basic customization options like colour choices, monograms, or including gift notes. Tailor experiences deepening customer connections with your brand.
Funds
Flexible financing helps you stay nimble, adapting tactics as needed. If something's not performing, easily shift gears, re-allocating that cash. But when sales are soaring, you've got funds to double down!
The path grows more challenging as your hustle expands into a legitimate business. But staying inspired, passionate, and money-motivated navigates those inevitable roadblocks. Just keep that fire fueled!
Stay Inspired
As business starts booming, having fast cash on hand lets you swiftly implement new sales tactics, seizing hot opportunities. No lingering around waiting for funds to afford promotions or expanding inventory.
With fast financing from direct lender or lines of credit, you can instantly invest in ads, campaigns, and fresh product launches. Getting that swift capital injection means rapidly capitalising on demands.
Update your website with pro photography and videos showcasing the latest offerings. Bulk up inventory to satisfy order influxes without selling out.
Conclusion
Look, I get it - taking that first leap is scary. But listen up: You are super talented, and people clearly want what you make. Plus, doing your passion as a job every day?! That's the actual dream!
You've got this! Make this year the time you finally turn your favourite hobby into your full-time career. As your little hobby turns into a real full-time gig, it's key to hold onto your original excitement and energy. Running a business has its fair share of obstacles and letdowns.
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Unique Christmas Gift Ideas: Perfect Wristwatch for Every Style
Tis the holiday season, and what better way to share seasonal happiness than with a unique Christmas gift? We're not talking about the typical suspects; instead, we're delving into a realm of beauty and utility: wristwatches.
Why watches? You may ask. They're more than simply timepieces; they're fashion statements. So, while the snowflakes fall and the carols play, let us explore the mystery of finding the perfect wristwatch for your loved ones this Christmas 2023.
Classic Timepieces for Classic Tastes
First, there are the classics, those eternal beauty that never go out of style. Consider this: a basic, attractive watch face with a comfortable leather band. It's like the watch world's little black dress: it's always in vogue.
When considering a classic watch as a Christmas gift, consider the recipient. Does Grandma like timeless elegance? Does your brother like the retro look? Classic timepieces aren't only for suits and ties; These watches are suitable for every occasion. A classic watch, whether it's a sleek, basic design or something with a little old-school appeal, is a present that says, "Hey, you're timeless."
Modern and Minimalist Watches for Today's Fashions
Let us now discuss the sleek and trendy - contemporary and minimalist timepieces that are all the rage. If classic is your grandmother's style, contemporary is your cool cousin's. These watches are the world's fashion-forward trendsetters.
Consider the recipient's clothing while purchasing a contemporary watch. Is your sister interested in modern fashion? Is your closest buddy up on the current fashion? A trendy timepiece compliments a variety of looks, from casual jeans to business casual. It's the type of item that screams, "I'm cool, I'm modern, and I know what's in."
Sports and Adventure Watches for Active Lifestyle
Let's move on to timepieces that are built for activity - sports and adventure watches. These watches are the ideal companion for your loved one's busy lifestyle if they are the outdoorsy sort who is always up for a challenge.
When selecting an adventure watch as a Christmas present, consider the activities that your recipient enjoys. Is it mountaineering, diving, or just surviving the urban jungle? Water resistance, durability, and specialized functionalities geared to their favorite hobbies are all desirable attributes. An adventure watch is more than simply a watch; it's a ticket to adventure.
Personalised Watches for a Personal Touch
Let's speak about watches that do more than just tell time - customizable and personalized watches. These are more than simply accessories; they are a statement of personality, a one-of-a-kind present that says, "I know you, and this is just for you."
Why is Personalization Important?
When it comes to presenting a personalized watch, it's all about demonstrating that you went above and beyond. Consider the recipient's favorite colors, engrave a memorable date, or add a personal touch. A personalized watch is more than simply a present; it's a piece of them on their wrist.
Budget-Friendly Options for Giving Thoughtfully
Let's face it: money restraints exist throughout the Christmas season. But don't worry, thoughtful and fashionable presents don't have to be expensive. Some timepieces are both economical and stylish, making them the ideal alternative for spreading Christmas cheer without emptying your budget.
Elegant Savings
Consider this your go-to resource for affordable watches. Whether you choose a modern watch or a traditional design, Sylvi has got you covered.
Shopping Suggestions
So you're on a tight budget? No problem. When looking for low-cost watches, seek specials, discounts offers, and models that give you the most bang for your dollar. The idea behind the gift is more important than the amount spent. After all, a fashionable watch can be both a fashion statement and a wise investment.
Conclusion
And there you have it, a whirlwind trip through the enthralling world of wristwatches, each with its narrative to tell. The possibilities are as varied as the personalities you're purchasing for, ranging from timeless classics to tech-savvy companions and even personalized jewels.
Take your time, look around, and choose a wristwatch that speaks to the individual you're looking for. After all, the thrill of providing thoughtful, meaningful presents is what makes Christmas magical. Wrap off the year with love and flair, and make this Christmas season memorable.
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Why You Need Extra Storage Space This Autumn?
[Presented By LockUp Garages]
While spring is traditionally the season for cleaning, there’s something about getting rid of clutter after the long summer holiday that can be particularly satisfying. Whether you’re keen gardeners, love your summer sports or want to clear out the empty nest, affordable and accessible lock up storage can help you free your home from unsightly clutter.
You Can Keep the Things You Love
Kids off to uni? Chances are they won’t have space to take everything that’s currently cluttering up their room, but there are things they still can’t bear to part with. If you want to restore a little order to your home, then storing all those items in a lock up garage can be the ideal way to get some space back while your kids will still be able to access their precious stuff 24 hours a day.
Put Away the Summer Tools
If you’re a keen gardener you’ll know how easy it is to accumulate all kinds of tools that are essential in the garden during the summer months, but then need to be stored over the winter. A shed can never match the security of proper storage, so why not house your summer tools where they’ll be safe, watertight and secure?
Store Your Equipment
If you’re the outdoorsy type then the summer is the time you indulge in all of your hobbies and pastimes from cycling in the Alps to snorkelling in the Caribbean. But once the holidays are over, you may have thousands of pounds worth of expensive gear that needs secure storage, but you simply don’t have the space at home. That’s when you need a secure and affordable lock up garage that’s accessible 24/7 and will give you the peace of mind knowing that your prized Cervelo or that set of Titleist clubs are being properly stored without costing you a fortune.
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‘Just in Case’ Clutter
Do you tend to hoard things ‘just in case’ they’ll come in useful? Then if you’re having a general autumn clear out now’s the time to store all those useful items in a lock up garage. You’ll have instant access to your treasures when you do finally need them without having spent more than they’re worth on storing them.
Whether you’re a hobbyist or a hoarder, an empty nester or a master gardener, we have the ideal storage solution for you with our lock up garages. Just find your nearest location with our handy site map and then contact us for more details.
About LockUpGarageUk:
If you are looking to rent a garage in the UK, look no further than LockUpGarages.co.uk. Dudrich (Holdings) Limited acts as the in-house Managing Agent for various 100% owned companies, which collectively, own the largest portfolio of lock up garages in the UK, which currently stands in excess of 14,000 units, spread over more than 1,000 different locations.
Whilst you may traditionally be looking for garages to rent to store your car or vehicle in, keeping it off the road and in many cases cutting down your insurance cost when compared to parking it on the road when not in use, or to ensure you always have a private parking space near your home or place of work, lock up garages are also a brilliant domestic storage solution.
Our clients use garages which they have rented through Dudrich (Holdings) Limited for a variety of reasons however we offer the same, high quality, level of service whoever you are and whatever your needs are.
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Patagonia, 47 N Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103
I’ve never shopped at any Patagonia for myself but I’ve been in a few with other people, Patagonia wearers. Mr. Froyo is from Ventura and interestingly, that’s where Patagonia was founded in 1973. I noticed some of the t-shirts and jeans said Ventura on them. He has a few Patagonia items and I used to flip through the catalogs he received. We’ve also been to the original location in Ventura many times.
My impression is that their clothing is rugged and designed for serious outdoor activities like mountain climbing, rock climbing, canoeing, etc. and extreme weather conditions. Of course, you can always wear it as part of an active/outdoorsy “looking” lifestyle.
Mr. Froyo says the clothes are well made and last a long time. Most of the styles look the same season after season. There are those awful puffer jackets, as well as fleece, denim, t-shirts, sweaters, sweatshirts, swimwear, shorts, running clothing, pants, and accessories (bags, belts, socks, bras, etc.). The Pasadena shop is a large one with multiple rooms and clothing for men, women and children. They even sell some food, books, mugs, towels, etc. The style reminds me of LL Bean but Patagonia is way more expensive.
Mr. Froyo loves the pants that he bought.
A Certified B corporation, they support various environmental causes and even make clothing out of recycled fabric from used Patagonia gear. They also sell patches so you can fix your gear yourself.
3.5 out of 5 stars
By Lolia S.
#Patagonia#outdoor clothing#outdoor clothing store#men's clothing#women's clothing#Old Town Pasadena#jackets
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Do you think the Cullens ever actually go camping? Do they enjoy fishing or swimming? What about being secluded away from humans? Or is that only ever an excuse?
I feel like maybe it was something they tried once in the modern era like, “wouldn’t it be funny if we actually did it?” and it was just kind of a letdown. I mean they don’t sleep so the whole concept of setting up a campsite with tents and sleeping bags is pretty pointless, but it has the same vibe as them in the movie cooking for Bella “you’ve given us an excuse to use the kitchen for the first time!” and there are boxes of brand new pots and pans around.
The public story is that they go ‘camping-’-which is such a weird story and doesn’t fit their public personas at all. These rich kids who wear designer clothes and drive expensive cars are all big into camping? Really? It would make more sense if they dressed like outdoorsy types and took Emmett’s jeep to school. The concept of “the parents yank the kids out of school to go camping on sunny days” already makes virtually no sense (Who does that?? How does Carlisle get sunny days off from work on short notice? Why would the school be okay with this?) but combined with the Modern Cool Clean High Fashion Rich Kids vibe they give off, “going camping” just . . . doesn’t really compute.
But since it’s the public story, you’d think they’d have to be frequent visitors to Newton’s Outfitters and have to be seen buying camping equipment and hiking gear and what not if they are putting even a little effort into this story (which the kids clearly don’t but maybe Esme and Carlisle have more sense). So they have all this equipment and were probably like “wouldn’t it be funny if we tried it out?”
So they took all the stuff into the woods and set it up and then kind of realized how pointless it was. They don’t sleep and don’t get cold--don’t need tents or sleeping bags. Don’t eat and can see in the dark, don’t need a camp fire. So they just sort of end up sitting around all night like “. . .” At some point Jasper produces a guitar. “Anyway, here’s ‘Wonderwall.’” Emmett has a flashlight and tries to tell scary stories but they’re all literally vampires so it’s like . . . no ghost story is going to cut it. Alice brought supplies for s’mores. She knows they can’t eat them but this is what you do when you go camping!!! so they all make them and just sort of . . . hold them for awhile.
I do think they spend time in the woods, though, we just probably wouldn’t call it “camping” from a human perspective. I don’t know about fishing; animals are afraid of vampires so they might steer clear if then sense them being around which could make it a pretty frustrating sport. (Emmett has tried fishing with his bare hands though). Swimming is probably a lot of fun for vampires, since they don’t have to breathe and don’t get tired, they could really explore underwater caves and stuff! And there are several references in the books to vampires and water. But the sort of natural habitat of Twilight vampires is the forest--that’s how the typical nomad lives, apparently, just existing out in nature and interacting with humans only to drink their blood. There’s probably a sense of freedom to it, to not have humans around and move and exist without hiding any of the vampire parts of themselves.
I wonder about Carlisle, though, since he spent the first few months of his vampire life trying to starve himself in seclusion in the forest. “Camping” might not be his favorite activity, although not being alone certainly changes things.
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Hi this is a weird question, but I don't know who else to ask: my dad drives trucks and will stop in the middle of nowhere (telling no one) to trail hike alone (~20 miles) and doesn't take any gear. He's come back cut up from falling, he's in his 60s. I've said I'm worried but he shrugs it off. I'd like to buy him some basic survival gear (maybe even a PLB but they're expensive) but don't know where to start. Do you have any advice as an outdoorsy person? Thanks in advance for any help
Unfortunately it sounds like the major issue is that he’s not really interested in following what most people tend to agree are wise safety moves, so I don’t know that he’ll be receptive to the idea of adding gear to his plans (which is, by the way, wild to me, because especially if we’re talking mountains 20 miles is experienced outdoorsman realm whereas not bringing any shit with you definitely isn’t). I think you should definitely emphasize the idea that he ought to text you the name of any trail he’s heading out on, just cause that’s best practice. You could also download some apps that are useful, if he’s good with his phone. AllTrails and onX Hunt are both really good mapping apps that serve slightly different purposes, although both require a subscription. An avalanche app would be a must if he’s a winter hiker. If he’s doing any hiking in grizzly country he NEEDS to take either bear spray or a pistol, there’s no debating that. As far as bare bones basic safety, any time I go on a hike that goes into real backcountry (which 20 miles is likely equitable to even in places without actual public land) I take a little pouch that has a compass, tinder, flint, water purification tablets, a whistle, a headlamp, and a small medical kit, and I always have a knife on me no matter where I am... Honestly I feel like he has to be taking a backpack with him or something, cause I did about 20 this morning and drank 2.5 big old water bottles that I definitely wouldn't want to be carrying, so adding a small survival kit to that wouldn’t even noticeably change the weight, especially if you get stuff geared toward ultra-light backpacking. And if he’s a real man’s man or something and won’t listen to anyone he doesn’t think “gets it” you could have him listen to episode 192 of the MeatEater podcast, the premise of the podcast in general being hunters talking about hunting and conservation and general outdoorsmanship, the premise of the episode being interesting backcountry medical stories that don’t get preachy but definitely get real.
In general, the potentially good news is the degree to which you need to be worried about this is really variable depending on where it is he’s hiking. His age might add a factor of risk, but I see properly Old old guys cruising along the trail all the time too. I don’t know that a PLB is necessary unless he has known medical issues or is going into really wild areas where there’s also small local populations and he’s not likely to encounter anyone on the trail, for now I’d just focus on bugging him until he puts some bandage rolls in his backpack and texts you his starting point like any responsible outdoorsman should
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I like rock climbing in theory but man... After joining these groups it looks like too bougie a sport for me - or at least, the people are? I get the feeling most of these folks are rich because they can afford all this expensive gear and most of the posts are about their gear. I feel like such an odd man out, like I've stepped into a club where I'm not welcome. :/
I just want some nice climbing shoes so I can go bouldering. Maybe rent a harness and some gear occasionally for some bigger climbe. I don't want a group that talks about gear all the time, I just want to find some smaller local spots and climb on some rocks that are safe-ish to climb without spending a fortune or having to know all this shit.
I like outdoorsy stuff because it's cheap/free and fun, if I wanted to spend money I'd go do... Idk, clubbing? Spas? Fancy ski resorts? How the fuck are people making climbing on rocks innaccessible?
#personal#mehhhhh I'm just complaining I'll figure something out eventually 😂#I just don't like how this feels like a 'look how rich I am' dick measuring contest#ALSO if anyone has any recs for outdoorsy fb/discord groups geared toward midwest folks with lower incomes hmu B)
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FEATURE: All Hail Secret Society BLANKET! Looking Back at Laid-Back Camp
Seasons come and go, but anime is eternal, and there's no need to be afraid of missing out on the goodness of yesteryear when “Cruising the Crunchy-Catalog” is here to help connect would-be viewers with the shows they may have passed over the first time around.
Thanksgiving has concluded, Christmas is just around the corner, and as the weather cools down, we anime fans turn our thoughts to warm campfires and cool locations, so this week we're getting into the wintery spirit with a look back at a series that captures the idea of “chill” in both the literal and metaphorical sense. Please join us as we revisit Laid-Back Camp.
What's Laid-Back Camp?
Based on the manga by afro, Laid-Back Camp is a winter 2018 TV anime with direction by Yoshiaki Kyogoku and animation production by C-Station. Crunchyroll describes the story of the series as follows:
Nadeshiko, a high school student who had moved from Shizuoka to Yamanashi, decides to see the famous, 1000 yen-bill-featured Mount Fuji. Even though she manages to bike all the way to Motosu, she's forced to turn back because of worsening weather. Unable to set her eyes on her goal, she faints partway to her destination. When she wakes up, it's night, in a place she's never been before, with no way of knowing how to get home. Nadeshiko is saved when she encounters Rin, a girl who is out camping by herself. This outdoorsy girls story begins with this first encounter between Nadeshiko and Rin.
This description makes the intro episode of Laid-Back Camp sound a bit harrowing, but rest assured, gentle readers, that the series is only stressful if you're like me and have an almost pathological distaste for camping. After a little viewing, I got over my hang-ups, and I was able to appreciate the show's cozy and comedic charms.
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The Great Outdoors.
The primary attraction of Laid-Back Camp is how it explores the hobby of modern camping in glorious detail. Not only does the show provide advice and trivia for activities such as setting up a tent, tending a campfire, and enjoying outdoor cooking, but special care is given to conveying the beauties of nature.
From the show's color and lighting schemes to the subtle sounds of crackling campfires to the steam that condenses when characters exhale in the cold, Laid-Back Camp captures a sense of the Japanese countryside during the winter season in a superb fashion that few other TV anime can rival.
Roughing It?
Laid-Back Camp also quietly explores themes of humanity's place within the natural world. When Nadeshiko, Rin, and the members of the Outdoor Activities Club go camping, they aren't disconnecting entirely from the comforts of modern society.
Instead, the girls bring along precision-engineered gear (tents, sleeping bags, portable heaters, etc.) as well as their smartphones and more mundane items such as books, so they can remain in constant contact with each other and with the trappings of everyday life. Running water, plumbing, and convenience store food are never too far away.
This juxtaposition of the vast emptiness of the wilderness versus the amenities of urban life gives Laid-Back Camp a reverent but contemplative tone.
Rose-Colored Glasses.
Laid-Back Camp presents an idealized version of camping where the thousands of tiny disasters that can accompany the activity — ravenous mosquitoes, inclement weather, lousy food, annoying neighbors, broken gear, etc. — don't really apply. Combined with a bit of gourmet cooking thrown in for good measure, it's designed to make the viewers feel warm and cozy.
Laid-Back Camp most closely resembles reality with the running gag of the girls experiencing sticker shock whenever they discover that camping can be an expensive hobby. The dramatic tension of the show never peaks higher than Rin — who prefers peace and quiet to raucous social gatherings — slowly learning to overcome her initial resistance to camping with other people, and the worst-case scenarios involve closed roads and missed opportunities.
Maximum Chill.
Crunchyroll currently streams Laid-Back Camp in numerous territories around the world, and the series is available in the original Japanese language with subtitles in English, Spanish, Latin American Spanish, French, Portuguese, Italian, German, Russian, and Arabic. Crunchyroll also streams the ROOM CAMP spin-off anime, and an English language version of the original manga is available from Yen Press. Additionally, a second season of Laid-Back Camp is scheduled to hit Japanese TV beginning in January of 2021.
With an understated sense of humor, a low degree of dramatic conflict, and a genuine love of the outdoor life that is obvious in every animation frame, Laid-Back Camp is an easy recommendation for viewers of all stripes. If the series is available in your area, then please consider giving Laid-Back Camp a try.
Thanks for joining us for this week's installment of “Cruising the Crunchy-Catalog.” Be sure to tune in next time when we take a look back at a story of employment with a foxy, supernatural twist when we check out a series from the fall season of 2017.
Is there a series in Crunchyroll's catalog that you think needs some more love and attention? Please send in your suggestions via e-mail to [email protected] or post a Tweet to @gooberzilla. Your pick could inspire the next installment of “Cruising the Crunchy-Catalog!"
Paul Chapman is the host of The Greatest Movie EVER! Podcast and GME! Anime Fun Time.
Do you love writing? Do you love anime? If you have an idea for a features story, pitch it to Crunchyroll Features!
By: Paul Chapman
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DOMENICO DI GIOVANNI ( CODY CHRISTIAN ) is a 17 year old JUNIOR student at Broadripple Academy. HE is originally from LOS ANGELES but moved to Broadripple A YEAR ago. HE is DRIVEN and RESOURCEFUL but can also be ENVIOUS and DECEITFUL.
BASICS
Name: Domenico Di Giovanni
Age: 17
Grade: Junior
House: Malleray
Cabin Room: 2, Junior Cabin
How long have they been at Broadripple: a bit more than a year
Where are they from originally: Los Angeles
Extra curricular: Soccer Team Captain, Swim Team member, Buddy Program
CHARACTER AESTHETICS
Untucked shirts and loose ties, worn sneakers, board shorts and athletic shirts, hair that are ‘fashionably’ messy, a fake rolex, sunglasses to hide bloodshot eyes, sundown on the ocean, an eagle as a coat of arm, a whisper in your ears, an old camera, handwriting that looks a lot more like hieroglyphs than actual English, the sweet exhaustion after intense training, an adrenaline rush, the roar of a Ducati, the tension of sneaking out at night, a golden cross necklace, a swiss-army knife as a keychain, a bonfire on the beach, a room that looks like a tornado has just been there, a tangle of athletic medals, a stack of movie posters, a zippo lighter because, come on everyone knows they are cool.
TRAITS
Positive Personality Traits: ambitious, driven, resourceful, playful, friendly, brave, loyal to his friends, passionate, open minded,
Neutral Personality Traits: competitive, nostalgic, emotional, stubborn, guarded, prideful, materialistic
Negative Personality Traits: envious, jealous, deceitful, selfish, vulnerable to peer pressure, reckless, boastful
FACTS
Domenico is the firstborn scion of an impoverished Italo-american family, he actually has some noble blood in his veins and is proud of his ancestry. His family migrated to the states after WW2 and had actually enjoyed a luxurious existence for a few generations, when Nico himself was a little kid they still had money, but a string of misfortune and bad business deals had left them with little
His parents are obsessed with the idea of social status and have drilled its importance into him, to the point that Domenico dedicates his life in its pursuit. No matter the cost, personal or otherwise.
Failure is not an option.
He grew up with the expectation of royalty and the wealth of a lower middle class kid
He has always lived on the periphery of wealth though, frequently doing odd jobs from rich family friends and looking for afar at the glamorous life of movie stars and socialites in his native Los Angeles. Craving for the ability to join him himself. Unable to see that hanging around with the friends he actually had made him way happier. In fact he has a lot of fond memories of the time spent back home, but pretends to himself that he had moved on and doesn’t care anymore.
He had pushed himself hard during high school to get an athletic scholarship and finally earned his ticket to Broadripple. The young man is legacy, but his family could definitely no longer afford to send him there.
While Domenico is extremely loyal to his friends, he has a very ‘the end justifies the means’ mentality, he plays dirty when he believes that his strength alone is not enough to ‘win’ and lies to get what he wants or just to make himself look more ‘important’ in the eyes of others.
He loves the spotlight and does what he can to get noticed. After his first year at Broadripple he had started to take up more responsibility at the school, mostly to increase his own standing
He is always on the lookout for college recruiters and will definitely use whatever trick he can in the books to up his chances of being selected
He constantly puts up a show of confidence.
He is passionate, he falls in love very quickly, but he is also pretty jealous and his pride tends to get in the way of things
He craves for true companionship, but so far he had been too blinded by his desire to ‘climb’ up.
Truth is, the pressure of his lifestyle is starting to get to him, but Nico is pretty good at lying to himself and is pretending that ‘everything is fine’ even as he keeps daydreaming about just dropping everything and go follow his passions
HEADCANONS
He has two younger siblings, Alessandra, a spirited 11 years old, that is very much loved by her big brother and Gabriele, who is only eight years old. Despite considering the latter annoying, he actually misses both of them. He dreads when his little sis will start dating
He is a huge horror movie buff and dreams to direct one eventually, but of course, his life has a more ‘serious’ path ahead so…
He loves the ocean and is very nostalgic about his home in California.
He is a bit of an adrenaline junkie, but he tries to stay focused
He actually enjoys playing sports and if he wasn’t as focused on his endgame he would much likely derive much more pleasure from them
He had sneaked out at the pool during the night for a swim more than once
He is pretty handy, had done a lot of odd jobs in his life and knows among other things how to pick a lock.
He is very boastful and is prone to hugely exaggerate his skills and wealth.
His best subject is history, math is meh…
He worships his Ducati and constantly tinkers with it, the motorbike is a birthday present from a family friend that greatly helped Nico while he was in LA. The two had spent the year before Nico went to Broadripple fixing it and it has an huge sentimental value to him. Nico doesn’t drive after drinking mostly out of fear of ruining it (rather than himself) in case of an accident. He had brought it straight from California driving halfway through the states and he would do it again
He has a family signet ring, but pretty much never wears it in public
He own a lot of expensive looking stuff that are actually knock off
He wears his shirts religiously ‘half-tucked’
He enjoys playing board games (but deem them too nerdy) and is a very competitive player
He is proud of his legacy status
He isn’t proud of being a scholarship student and keeps that detail for himself
He deals MJ among the students to boost his income, but himself he doesn’t smoke frequently
Domenico is fully bilingual English\Italian and he swears (and thinks) in his family native language despite never having been in Italy himself
He has a small youtube channel where he comments the Italian soccer championship and other soccer trivia, he is not however a regular poster of content and keeps it mostly as an hobby (and an extra space to advertise himself to potential recruiters)
He isn’t bad in the kitchen and can make a few Italian dishes
Espresso for life (and made in the ‘right way’) the rest isn’t real coffee.
Sport = religion. To skip training is sin.
He jogs very early every morning
A previous roommate of his has left the school last year, Nico kinda believe that he had scared him off
He loves the Rolling Stones (coincidentally his dad is more of a Beatles type)
He dreams about taking a sabbatical and making a road trip after graduation
Has ran from home a couple of times as a kid.
While he keeps it very well buried, Domenico has a bit of a playful, goofy side that emerges when he feels like he is free to be himself
He is also a bit of a prankster
QUESTIONS ABOUT THE RETREAT
What do they think about The Retreat?
“This is supposed to be an exclusive and expensive academy right?” Turns to check if no one else is listening and then lowers his voice. “On the other side… thanks God right? At least they haven’t sent us back home…”
Domenico doesn’t care about the retreat per-se, but he is worried that all the strange events might tarnish the school reputation, putting his own college future in jeopardy, or worse, ending up shutting down the Academy as he doesn’t exactly have many alternatives. He does miss a bit of privacy though and the lack of wi-fi frustrates him. While outwardly he pretends that he cares about the lack of amenities, it’s more of a show.
Do they have any previous experience with camping or other outdoors?
“Of course I do.”
Domenico is outdoorsy, but has never gone camping in his life, plus he is accustomed to a much warmer climate than Massachusetts and while he does his best to soldier through it, the experience definitely sucks. While he has no idea about how to build a tent or anything on the like at least he knows how to light a fire and can make a decent grilled meat if the need arises.
What does their cabin bunk look like? How will they decorate their space?
“It’s not my room and let’s leave it at that.”
Domenico’s dorm room was adorned with movie posters (mostly horror B-movies), some of them hiding pictures underneath that a catholic school might not exactly approve (but that strike the fancy of a seventeen years old boy), piled up trophies, a small basketball hoop, random sport gear and clothes scattered here and there. He couldn’t bring much to his bunk and had packed most of his things in cardboard boxes to pick up for later. He keeps a picture of his siblings cheering at his birthday before he left for Broadripple and one with his former high-school team celebrating after a match.
Do they believe in the supernatural? To what degree?
“Nah... That’s all crap. It makes for a good movie though.”
Nico is fascinated by the supernatural, but he is not a believer, they are cool stories though and he likes the dash of adrenaline of a well told tale of horror. Besides, Broadripple might be a good subject for a movie right? In theory Domenico is Catholic and was kinda of observant as a kid, by now though, religion isn’t in his mind.
Are they easily spooked?
“Nop. Ehi what is that noise?”
Domenico likes to think of himself as brave and tends to worry about more mundane problems rather than supernatural or existential one. That said, sometimes the aerie atmosphere of the Academy actually gets to him and strikes the darkest corners of his imagination. Showing fear though, is embarrassing and Domenico keeps the feeling for himself, doing his best to crack a joke or put up a mask of courage.
AND FINALLY,
A very dumb but (hopefully) fun quiz made by your admins, please share what result you got
you're the real danger
everyone talks about what they hear and see out in the woods but what about what's in the room with them? if everyone already thinks they're hearing things, it wouldn't be that hard to cover everything up
I must admit that I cheated a bit to get there, but Nico would definitely have done that himself, so I’m not ashamed to admit it. Besides, it’s kinda fitting of him :p
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M.ary Duck HCs, because Yes
Of her siblings, Mary is the de-facto middle child both literally and figuratively: creative and quirky like her mother and youngest brother, but much more reserved (if not seemingly level-headed) in lieu of big brother Abner and her father, Eider.
Some could say that she’s a bit of a shrinking violet, often overshadowed by Whitewater’s gruff demeanor and Fethry’s vibrant personality. She’s also on the spectrum (I know autistic Fethry is a pretty popular headcanon and I love it to pieces), but unlike her younger brother, it took a long time for others to look into it because of female social conditioning leaving women like her underdiagnosed/most brushing off her symptoms as simply shyness.
That said, Mary is just as outdoorsy as Lulu is artistic, and was on a pretty even level with Eider and Abner in terms of sourdough spirit. It’s easy to underestimate her because of her outward demeanor (especially given the toxic masculinity possibly exerted by Eider), but she was always game for roughhousing with the likes of Abner and her father despite potential protests.
The Loon side of the family are of a higher social standing, and Lulubelle married a working-class, high school sweetheart Eider despite her parents’ protests. Though Lulu herself is as sweet as can be, there was a lot of tension between the Loons and the Ducks while growing up because of this.
In addition to class tensions, the Loon grandparents perceived Fethry as too odd and rebellious like their daughter; meanwhile, Abner was much too stubborn like their son in-law. They viewed their only granddaughter as the perfect median, so Mary spent a lot of time with the Loon side of the family to prep her as the Loon family heir.
It worked just as well as expected. Read: it was a pretty mixed bag that tore apart at the seams. Though better tutored and educated when compared to her brothers, it was at the expense of a low self-esteem driven by impossible expectations and barely getting to know her cousins at Grandma Duck’s farm.
It went on in late childhood throughout her early teens, and ties weren’t severed until Mary spilled the beans after an exceptionally toxic stay at her grandparents’ house. Not to mention an extremely upset Abner confronting two oblivious parents because the poor girl could hardly get a word in like holy heck guys, never underestimate Abner’s Protective Sibling Wrath.
Cue Loon-Duck familial strains kicking further into gear and one of Mary’s biggest regrets being how little she spent time with her bothers (and especially Fethry) when they were younger.
Though Mary got along better with both of her parents when compared to her brothers, Abner was Eider’s favorite and Fethry had always been Lulu’s little boy. She’s acted as a very important middlewoman to the rest of her siblings, but Middle Child Syndrome hit her pretty darn hard.
Lulubelle and Eider aren’t bad people by a long shot, but they’ve definitely had their slip-ups. As kind as their mother was, Lulu could’ve been way more assertive when it came to Fethry feeling left out by his brother and father’s macho shenanigans, as well as the Loon family’s singling out of Mary.
True to her interests, Mary got a fine arts degree and minored in ecology in her 20s. And true to the millennial dream, she became a dispatcher at Duckberg National Park to avoid becoming a starving artist.
#ooc#dugan duckcanons#ask to tag#[[hoooo boy this is one big bowl of#angst#this got long so I put the rest under the cut#]]#mama (mary)
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Today was the first snow of the school year in Oklahoma (yes, we’re as surprised as you are) and I’ve noticed SO. MANY students who have no idea whatsoever how to dress or how to be prepared for winter.
I realize Oklahoma has relatively mild winters compared to some of my northern counterparts, but we need to bundle up just as much a everyone else.
First thing’s first, you don’t have to spend a ton of money. College is already hella expensive, so don’t make a bigger deal out of it than you need to.
Let’s start with the basics. LAYERING. This can usually be accomplished with stuff you already own, and if you don’t already own it, you can get it for cheap at places like Target, Old Navy, or even on Amazon. So let’s dive on in.
Here are the essentials (with each item explained in detail if you keep reading):
Base: cotton is fine
Mid: think sweaters or sweatshirts
Outerwear: don’t skimp too much
Footwear: go for waterproof
Socks: warm and tall
Headwear: something that at least covers your ears
Scarves/glove: consider something other than basic knit gloves
Other words of wisdom:
Test your heater at least three days before it’s supposed to get super cold. My roommate and I made that mistake and my house is currently 48F because our heater is broken.
Stock up on blankets. A good fleece blanket goes a longggg way when it comes to keeping you warm.
Get some good slippers and some flannel jammies. You won’t always have to go outside when it’s cold and on a snow day you’ll want to stay in bed. Might as well be nice and cozy while you do!
ALWAYS do your homework anyway, even if it looks like class might get cancelled. You can’t read mother nature’s brain, so just do it and prepare for class. Then you have less to do on your snow day!
Make some good memories. Get some friends together and have a snowball fight, maybe make some snow angels. Drink hot cocoa and watch the snow fall. Whatever you do, try to do it with friends.
Sam’s Guide to Layering
1. Base
For the most part, you shouldn’t need much more than your standard undergarments, and you generally won’t need anything more than cotton. So go for a cotton undershirt and some of your usual undies (still a funny word, even at 23) (disclaimer: if you’re a big outdoorsy person, you might want to step up your game, but if you’re a big outdoorsy person you probably already own the right gear for winter outdoorsy adventures).
I will say this: I don’t own very warm pants. I own a lot of leggings and a lot of jeggings and that’s about it. So when it’s snowing (like today) I throw a pair of leggings on under my jeggings. This can also be accomplished with thermal leggings or long underwear, but I own neither so I went with some basic athletic leggings I got at Old Navy.
2. Mid
Time for some outer layers. This is where I have fun with sweaters because I own too many (though sweaters don’t block wind so wear a long sleeve shirt if you’re opting to go without a coat) or crewneck sweatshirts because those are my favorite. If you don’t own any of these things, check out the stores in your college town for sales on university sweatshirts or places like Old Navy and Target for deals on sweaters. You can dish out some extra cash for some nice merino wool bought on sale, but you don’t really need to.
3. Outer layer
This is where most people go wrong. If it’s snowing, you need a coat. Let’s say that together, if it’s snowing, you need a coat. I don’t care how tough you think you are, you’re going to want a coat when you’re walking across campus in the wind and snow and sleet and whatever else the weather has going on. This doesn’t have to be a major investment (though you’ll thank yourself if it is). You can go for a wool outer layer from Old Navy for like $40 or you can buy a $120 pea coat from a department store (I own both, and I wear both, often). If you’re the aforementioned outdoorsy type, go for something more waterproof and “functional”.
4. Footwear
Okay, so here’s the deal, whatever you get, you want it to be waterproof. Rainboots can be made warm with the right socks, and hiking boots are amazing alternative to snowboots. You just want to make sure that water doesn’t get in your shoes because then your socks will be soaked and your toes will be cold ALL DAY.
5. Socks
While we’re on the subject of your feet, make sure you have some cozy socks happening. Preferably tall ones. I saw so many girls on campus today wearing leggings and sneakers with exposed ankles and...just please learn from their mistake. Wool ones are preferred, but you can work with what you’ve got.
6. Headwear
I love a good pom pom beanie, but I know that isn’t practical for everyone. Ideally, find something that covers at least your ears but preferably your whole head. If you ride a bike to class, a beanie may not fit under your helmet so you can opt for something more like a headband. Just find something that keeps your ears warm, okay?
7. Scarves/gloves
Okay so not everyone likes scarves, but I love scarves. They’re warm and fuzzy and make me happy. Oh, and I can use them to cover my face when it’s too ridiculously cold outside. Whether you go for more of a blanket scarf situation, knit, or fleece, having a scarf is a better idea than you know. As for gloves: if you’re like me, you’ve spent your life being handed knit gloves that don’t actually do much to keep your hands warm. As far as my favorite gloves, I love C.C.’s anti-slip touchscreen gloves. Wow are those amazing.
Please stay warm, and happy winter!
#college#university#winter#studyblr#stemblr#engblr#gradblr#advice#college winter#campus#college life#how to#help#stay warm
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Fictober Day 30: “Do we really have to do this again?”
From the Fictober 2018 Prompt List.
Fandom: Dragon Age
Rating: T
In which the Theirins and their tenants make Halloween plans.
The residents of Vigil House were arguing, as usual.
It was a crisp Saturday in late October, and Elissa Cousland-Theirin surveyed her young tenants fondly. Not so long ago, she remembered sitting in the huge foyer of the estate she’d inherited, and thinking only of how the gloomy place reminded her of loved ones lost and dreams relinquished. She’d been hesitant when Alistair suggested renting out rooms to students from nearby Amaranthine University, but had ultimately given into his characteristic enthusiasm ... and she was glad. They’d never been able to have children of their own, but somehow, living among their offbeat collection of renters had soothed a bit of that old pain and restored a sense of family she’d almost forgotten.
And like many families, they disagreed on a wide variety of subjects. Today, it was Halloween planning.
“Ugh, do we really have to do this again? Why do I even bother trying to plan anything with you guys? If we’re not going to get out and see the fall colors, what is the point?”
Elissa hid a grin behind her hand. The complaint came from Velanna, a lovely blond history major with a minor, oddly enough, in botany. “The girl cracks me up,” she’d told Alistair one evening. “She looks like she should call herself Leaf while introducing you to her boyfriend Pinecone at the Peace-and-Love Tree-Hugging Festival of Mud. But if so, she either missed out on what the other hippies were smoking, or ended on a bad trip, because she’s always about three words away from being pissed right off.” His chuckle had faded into concern, and he’d worried that Velanna was trapped in some dangerous situation. Elissa had kissed him with a smile. “Immediately wanting to help everyone is so you, my love. But no, I think she’ll be fine. She’s hinted at some family issues, and I expect she’ll open up eventually.” It hadn’t happened yet, but luckily the others were more inclined to roll their eyes than get offended.
“Ooh, we could carve pumpkins! That would be outdoorsy, plus we could use them to decorate! It would be so much fun!”
If Velanna was the angriest hippie, Sigrun was the cheeriest goth. Even shorter than the willowy blond, she was rounded and perky, wearing her dark hair in pigtails, but the girl-next-door look was offset by bold makeup and an angular symbol tattooed on her face. Today, she wore black leggings and motorcycle boots beneath a fluffy orange skirt covered in glittery silver bats, and a hoodie embellished with the words, “Sometimes I wrestle with my demons but sometimes we just snuggle.” Unlike Velanna, the geology major had been breezily open about her past, and she’d been through hardships Elissa could scarcely comprehend. When asked how she got through it all with such a positive attitude, she’d shrugged. “The worst has already happened, so there’s nowhere to go but up, right?” Sigrun reminded her of Alistair in some ways; she’d come through darkness unspoiled, and she was always quick with a smile or a hug.
“If pumpkin-carving parties have beer, I’m in.”
Oghren reacted to their disapproving glares with a smirk and a belch, showing his usual class. Of all the residents, he was the one Elissa had the toughest time making up her mind about. He was in the criminal justice program, but she couldn’t say whether he wanted to stop crime or learn how to get away with it, and she’d never seen him with a book. On the other hand, he valued his spot on the rugby team, and never missed a practice or a workout—though it was a mystery how, given his seemingly constant partying. She wondered yet again if his crass, off-putting behavior was a cover for emotions he lacked the capacity to process, if it was a sign of borderline alcoholism, or if he was just that shallow. It seemed she might never know.
“Mixing big knives and alcohol? Sure, I can’t imagine how that could possibly go wrong.”
The sandy-haired nursing major was the next to chime in. Anders lay on the floor playing with their cat, Urth (short for Urthemeow; one day she’d learn to stop letting her husband name the pets). Alistair had taken Barkspawn along when he left to run errands, so the dainty black Tevene long-hair was making the most of the undivided attention. Anders caught her looking, and grinned at her with the easy charm that explained how he’d spent the previous semester on friends’ couches. It would doubtless give him phenomenal bedside manner when he finished his schooling, but at present seemed more geared toward being in beds than out of them. She had to admit his flirtatious teasing fluttered her pulse now and then, a fact which had caused Alistair to vacillate between a glare and a pout whenever the young man was around—until she’d set out to convince him no one else could steal her heart. Elissa smirked, remembering. The dinner she’d made him, with his favorite cheesecake for dessert, had been nice. But the second dessert course lasted much longer. And involved lingerie. They may also have found additional uses for the leftover chocolate syrup and whipped cream. After that, Alistair declared himself thoroughly convinced, and was rather more kindly disposed to their resident cat lover.
“If we decorate, we’ll have to give out candy. It wouldn’t be fair to raise kids’ hopes with a big festive display and then have nothing for them.”
It always amused her that, despite Oghren’s major, the one who was most concerned with justice was Kristoff. She found it interesting he’d become friends with Anders; other than their mutual compassion for humanity, two more different people could hardly be imagined. Where Anders wore his golden hair long, with a flirty smile in his warm brown eyes and a joke at the ready, Kristoff’s dark hair was shaved to the skull, and he often reacted to humor with a distant silver stare of incomprehension. Nonetheless, Elissa was fond of the awkward young man, and impressed by his commitment to his studies in investigative journalism, a field he’d pursued as long as he could remember. Careful to ensure everyone got their chance to speak, he turned to the final member of the group. “What do you think we should do?” he asked.
“We ... we used to put up a ton of decorations at home; I highly doubt anyone’s using them now. I could ask my sister where they are, I guess. If you want.”
Elissa’s heart went out to the pain in Nathaniel Howe’s voice, despite the spiky stare that challenged anyone to mock him. Sadly, he had good reason for it. He was the son of the former governor of Amaranthine, a well-known business tycoon. Until a year ago, he’d had his own expensive loft in a trendy part of town along with anything else he wanted. But then his dad was charged with embezzlement and sent to prison after an extremely public trial. All their assets were seized. Nate’s sister was married and cushioned from the worst deprivations, but the pale, dark-haired young man with the wounded grey eyes had lost his apartment, his car, and all his more shallow friends. The defeat in his posture when he’d asked the price of the room stuck with her, but he’d persevered, and continued to work toward his degree in finance. She wondered though, without the influence of his demanding father, how long it would be before he reconsidered his interests in life.
“That’s a great idea, Nate,” Elissa said, giving him a warm smile. “More decorations would be lovely. So I guess our next step is to shop for pumpkins—which we will not be carving while drunk, thank you very much—and, what else? Oh, yes, candy.”
“Did someone say candy?” Alistair’s voice preceded him into the sitting room, until he appeared a moment later looking like a refugee from a grocery bag factory.
Elissa blinked. “Alistair? Exactly how many of those bags are filled with Halloween candy?”
“... a few?” he dissembled, setting down his haul. At her stern glare, he broke. “All right, so I may have gone a little overboard on supplies. But ... but ‘Liss, I never got to do Halloween as a kid. You can’t blame me for being excited ... can you?” He looked down at her with those bottomless golden puppy-dog eyes, and she sighed in defeat.
“You’re lucky I love you, Mr. Theirin,” she grumbled.
“Most definitely, Mrs. Theirin,” he said, pulling her out of her seat to enfold her in sweet kisses.
“Ugh, get a room, you two,” Anders teased, and they laughed.
For a collection of all my Fictober 2018 one-shots, check out Windows in Autumn on AO3.
#fictober18#alistair x cousland#alistair theirin#anders#nathaniel howe#velanna#sigrun#justice dragon age#oghren#dragon age fanfiction#agreywrites#ag-fictober18
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