Friday is confused about everything and considering a sabbatical to parts unknown
Sep. 5th, 2025 06:00 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
shadowkatAt least it was a pretty day today. Clear and sunny, until clouds moved in at the end of it threatening rain. So I took a walk along the pier at lunchtime - and on the way back picked up two gluten-free chocolate chip cookies from Insominac Cookies (they are freshly baked cookies), and an iced matcha latte from Grumpy Coffee, which is conveniently around the corner from Gregory's and Crazy Workplace. It's not perfect, but it is a workable substitute to Gregory's and cheaper. Also it has decafe coffee.
And there's also Cafe Rumi, which has gluten free muffins and lemon loaf.
I'm slowly developing a list of places that provide gluten-free items around my work place and home.
Everything is confusing me at the moment. I've decided the world (inclusive of my work place) has gone bat-shit crazy, and I want to take a sabbatical from all of it to parts unknown. But I guess I could just attempt an internet and news sabbatical over the weekend - and veg on scripted and fictional television shows, books, and writing. Plus doing watercolors, taking long walks, and maybe going to church on Sunday - along with the High Line (depending on the weather). I'm also considering taking a page from colls book and trying the 30 day yoga/meditation challenge - to help center myself. I meditate for about ten to fifteen minutes every morning before work, and thirty minutes in bed - with various sleep stories. Utilizing mostly the Calm app, I think I've burned through everything of use on the Headspace app and will unsubscribe from it soon.
I'm confused and overloaded at work. They keep changing the process and procedures on me, and I'm no longer certain if the people running the organization know what they are doing? Example? It's been five years since the merger and creation of new departmental agency and we still don't have an org chart. Also, the real estate department keeps playing a shell game with people. The folks seated behind me where moved from Brooklyn to the City, and now are being moved back, except they can't be moved back yet, because the real estate department doesn't know what to do with the people currently occupying that space, and the people they want to move into their current space - don't want to move. Everyone is confused. I was taught that government is basically organized chaos, but lately it's becoming increasing more chaos and less organized.
My brain is taking the weekend off. It's tired of keeping track of everything. It needs a break.
***
Question a Day Meme
3. Do you like trying new things? What’s the last new thing you tried (a craft, a new food, a new activity or something else)?
Yes, although within reason. I'm a curious person but also an extreemly cautious one. Lately I've been trying gluten free chocolate chip cookies, and baked items. Last week it was bread from a new gluten free bakery I discovered. I also like checking out new music, new books, new television shows, new shoes, new foods...I'm considering tofu chocolate mousse (if I can find tofu, thinking health food store or Asian market). My brain is a bit of a blank at the moment as to new things I recently tried though?
4. Peter Mark Roget was born in 1779 and wrote the ‘Thesaurus of English Words and Phrases Classified and Arranged so as to Facilitate the Expression of Ideas and Assist in Literary Composition”. Roget’s Thesaurus has never been out of print – have you ever used a thesaurus?
Yes. At one point I had an online version. Also owned them. I'm a professional wordsmith - my job involves hunting the right or precise words to use in financial and legal documents, well it's a portion of the job.
5. It’s International Day of Charity – do you regularly (or occasionally) donate to any local or National charities?
Yes. Both. ( Read more... )
And there's also Cafe Rumi, which has gluten free muffins and lemon loaf.
I'm slowly developing a list of places that provide gluten-free items around my work place and home.
Everything is confusing me at the moment. I've decided the world (inclusive of my work place) has gone bat-shit crazy, and I want to take a sabbatical from all of it to parts unknown. But I guess I could just attempt an internet and news sabbatical over the weekend - and veg on scripted and fictional television shows, books, and writing. Plus doing watercolors, taking long walks, and maybe going to church on Sunday - along with the High Line (depending on the weather). I'm also considering taking a page from colls book and trying the 30 day yoga/meditation challenge - to help center myself. I meditate for about ten to fifteen minutes every morning before work, and thirty minutes in bed - with various sleep stories. Utilizing mostly the Calm app, I think I've burned through everything of use on the Headspace app and will unsubscribe from it soon.
I'm confused and overloaded at work. They keep changing the process and procedures on me, and I'm no longer certain if the people running the organization know what they are doing? Example? It's been five years since the merger and creation of new departmental agency and we still don't have an org chart. Also, the real estate department keeps playing a shell game with people. The folks seated behind me where moved from Brooklyn to the City, and now are being moved back, except they can't be moved back yet, because the real estate department doesn't know what to do with the people currently occupying that space, and the people they want to move into their current space - don't want to move. Everyone is confused. I was taught that government is basically organized chaos, but lately it's becoming increasing more chaos and less organized.
My brain is taking the weekend off. It's tired of keeping track of everything. It needs a break.
***
Question a Day Meme
3. Do you like trying new things? What’s the last new thing you tried (a craft, a new food, a new activity or something else)?
Yes, although within reason. I'm a curious person but also an extreemly cautious one. Lately I've been trying gluten free chocolate chip cookies, and baked items. Last week it was bread from a new gluten free bakery I discovered. I also like checking out new music, new books, new television shows, new shoes, new foods...I'm considering tofu chocolate mousse (if I can find tofu, thinking health food store or Asian market). My brain is a bit of a blank at the moment as to new things I recently tried though?
4. Peter Mark Roget was born in 1779 and wrote the ‘Thesaurus of English Words and Phrases Classified and Arranged so as to Facilitate the Expression of Ideas and Assist in Literary Composition”. Roget’s Thesaurus has never been out of print – have you ever used a thesaurus?
Yes. At one point I had an online version. Also owned them. I'm a professional wordsmith - my job involves hunting the right or precise words to use in financial and legal documents, well it's a portion of the job.
5. It’s International Day of Charity – do you regularly (or occasionally) donate to any local or National charities?
Yes. Both. ( Read more... )
Thursday is depressed and wondering if it should just disappear into the ether?
Sep. 4th, 2025 09:45 pmshadowkatAnd should just go to bed.
But I had keto cookie dough ice cream with chocolate and whipped cream (which kind of renders the keto portion of it null and void?) and it's keeping me awake for a bit.
From another post - I'm struggling to define "stealth anthology series" - this is going to bug me. My mind loves to torture itself with semantics debates - it's the downside of being a professional wordsmith, who has to be precise with phrasing for a living. My work bleeds into my personal life, no matter what I do to separate it.
Found a definition via AI:
"A "stealth anthology" is a series that functions as an anthology but presents itself to the audience as a traditional serial drama with continuing characters and story arcs
The anthology format is hidden, or "in stealth mode," for a portion of the show's run.
The term gained prominence in pop culture criticism to describe shows that subvert audience expectations by featuring a new story or set of characters in each episode or season, despite having a continuous element that keeps viewers engaged.
A prominent example is the television show Quantum Leap, where a time-traveler jumps into a different person's life each episode. While the time-traveler and his holographic guide are continuous characters, the central story of each episode (the person's life they inhabit) and the supporting cast are always new.
How a stealth anthology works
The framing device: A consistent character or small cast provides continuity from one story to the next.
The new cast: Each new installment features a fresh set of characters and a self-contained plot that resolves by the end of the episode or season.
The audience hook: The continuous framing device pulls the audience along, even if they aren't invested in a particular week's story, allowing the show to explore many different genres and premises.
The genre shift: By essentially doing a different show each week, a stealth anthology can seamlessly move between genres like hard-boiled detective fiction, domestic comedy, musical theater, and science fiction.
Critics Pick Their Favorite Anthology Series of All Time
Aug 20, 2019 — How are we defining “anthology,” exactly? A show that tells a new story with new characters each season? In that case, it's probably “Fargo,” even though I had ...
Hmmm.
I'd say a stealth anthology series that is by episode is most like Pokerface or Quantum Leap or maybe Murder She Wrote. I don't know about Doctor Who - it has a serial through line, as does most procedurals. The characters build new relationships. Also Doctor Who has recurring characters. Actually it may be the very definition of "stealth anthology" - since it is a serial whose characters often change entirely with each new Doctor. Fargo, True Detective, American Horror Story, and American Crime are all stealth anthologies.
Okay, my brain has figured it out now and will let it go, so I can sleep.
But I had keto cookie dough ice cream with chocolate and whipped cream (which kind of renders the keto portion of it null and void?) and it's keeping me awake for a bit.
From another post - I'm struggling to define "stealth anthology series" - this is going to bug me. My mind loves to torture itself with semantics debates - it's the downside of being a professional wordsmith, who has to be precise with phrasing for a living. My work bleeds into my personal life, no matter what I do to separate it.
Found a definition via AI:
"A "stealth anthology" is a series that functions as an anthology but presents itself to the audience as a traditional serial drama with continuing characters and story arcs
The anthology format is hidden, or "in stealth mode," for a portion of the show's run.
The term gained prominence in pop culture criticism to describe shows that subvert audience expectations by featuring a new story or set of characters in each episode or season, despite having a continuous element that keeps viewers engaged.
A prominent example is the television show Quantum Leap, where a time-traveler jumps into a different person's life each episode. While the time-traveler and his holographic guide are continuous characters, the central story of each episode (the person's life they inhabit) and the supporting cast are always new.
How a stealth anthology works
The framing device: A consistent character or small cast provides continuity from one story to the next.
The new cast: Each new installment features a fresh set of characters and a self-contained plot that resolves by the end of the episode or season.
The audience hook: The continuous framing device pulls the audience along, even if they aren't invested in a particular week's story, allowing the show to explore many different genres and premises.
The genre shift: By essentially doing a different show each week, a stealth anthology can seamlessly move between genres like hard-boiled detective fiction, domestic comedy, musical theater, and science fiction.
Critics Pick Their Favorite Anthology Series of All Time
Aug 20, 2019 — How are we defining “anthology,” exactly? A show that tells a new story with new characters each season? In that case, it's probably “Fargo,” even though I had ...
Hmmm.
I'd say a stealth anthology series that is by episode is most like Pokerface or Quantum Leap or maybe Murder She Wrote. I don't know about Doctor Who - it has a serial through line, as does most procedurals. The characters build new relationships. Also Doctor Who has recurring characters. Actually it may be the very definition of "stealth anthology" - since it is a serial whose characters often change entirely with each new Doctor. Fargo, True Detective, American Horror Story, and American Crime are all stealth anthologies.
Okay, my brain has figured it out now and will let it go, so I can sleep.
Wednesday is confused as to what day it actually is?
Sep. 3rd, 2025 04:56 pmshadowkatI think it's Wednesday? Checks. Yes, Wednesday. That's the difficulty with short weeks, I get confused. And everything work wise has confused me today. I was confused when I got up. So was my Smart Watch - who asked me if I wanted to turn off the alarm since I was awake at 5:30, and I was like no, I'm going to attempt to go back to sleep thank you very much, I just had to go to the bathroom.
Some odd links that I stumbled upon:
1. Being Poor by John Scalzi - which is interesting, considering he's a multi-millionaire who has a collection of insane guitars, but whatever. He seems to get most of it right, and most likely experienced poverty at some point in his lifetime? Apparently, I'm right - he did experience poverty (most professional writers have - it's not a money-making profession and those who make it eventually, often suffered years and years of "starving artist syndrome"). Here, he explains why he wrote it and how it was received. Make of it what you will.
2. Meanwhile people asking for money to do weird things?
Romance Novelist wants funds to sell jigsaw puzzles of her book covers
This individual wants money to sell a board game based on Jane Austen Novels entitled Endearment (I don't know, it reminded me more of Bridgerton).
At least they are creative?
3. the Who Farewell Tour in Toronto
4. Yes, it's official. Paramount Skydance Merger Has Finally Closed
It's hard to say what if anything this means for future projects? But Paramount had to do a deal with the devil in the blue suit and orange puffy hair to seal the deal, so....
Note Paramount is the owner of the Star Trek franchise, actually now, Skydance Media is the owner of the Star Trek franchise. Skydance didn't own any film or television outlets prior - it produced films and television shows such as Foundation, Mission Impossible...and does Animation and video games.
Not to be confused with the UK company Sky Group Media, Skydance Media is an American Media Company. The names are similar so it is understandably confusing.
"Skydance Media, LLC (formerly known as Skydance Productions from 2006 to 2016) was an American media production and finance company based in Santa Monica, California. Founded by David Ellison in 2006, the company specialized in films, animation, television, video games, and sports.
In 2009, the company entered a five-year partnership to co-produce and co-finance films with Paramount Pictures. This agreement was renewed twice, extending to 2021. On July 7, 2024, Skydance announced its intent to merge with Paramount Global in an $8 billion transaction, under an agreement in which Skydance would acquire Paramount's controlling shareholder National Amusements, and then perform an all-stock merger with the company. On July 24, 2025, the merger was approved by the FCC, and the merger was closed on August 7, 2025, forming Paramount Skydance Corporation."
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skydance_Media
5. IRS is asking taxpayer's to take a Tax Preparation Survey
"WASHINGTON – The IRS invites the public to participate in an anonymous feedback survey on tax preparation and filing options, which will run through Sept. 5, 2025.
The survey is being conducted as part of the Department of Treasury and the IRS’s efforts to fulfill a reporting requirement to Congress under the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act. The law directs Treasury to deliver a report to Congress by Oct. 2, 2025, on several key issues related to free tax filing options for the public.
Treasury and the IRS encourage taxpayers to share their perspectives and help inform this important congressional report.
To participate, visit the Free Online Tax Preparation Feedback Survey or the IRS.gov landing page. Participation is anonymous."
***
Off to bed.
Some odd links that I stumbled upon:
1. Being Poor by John Scalzi - which is interesting, considering he's a multi-millionaire who has a collection of insane guitars, but whatever. He seems to get most of it right, and most likely experienced poverty at some point in his lifetime? Apparently, I'm right - he did experience poverty (most professional writers have - it's not a money-making profession and those who make it eventually, often suffered years and years of "starving artist syndrome"). Here, he explains why he wrote it and how it was received. Make of it what you will.
2. Meanwhile people asking for money to do weird things?
Romance Novelist wants funds to sell jigsaw puzzles of her book covers
This individual wants money to sell a board game based on Jane Austen Novels entitled Endearment (I don't know, it reminded me more of Bridgerton).
At least they are creative?
3. the Who Farewell Tour in Toronto
4. Yes, it's official. Paramount Skydance Merger Has Finally Closed
It's hard to say what if anything this means for future projects? But Paramount had to do a deal with the devil in the blue suit and orange puffy hair to seal the deal, so....
Note Paramount is the owner of the Star Trek franchise, actually now, Skydance Media is the owner of the Star Trek franchise. Skydance didn't own any film or television outlets prior - it produced films and television shows such as Foundation, Mission Impossible...and does Animation and video games.
Not to be confused with the UK company Sky Group Media, Skydance Media is an American Media Company. The names are similar so it is understandably confusing.
"Skydance Media, LLC (formerly known as Skydance Productions from 2006 to 2016) was an American media production and finance company based in Santa Monica, California. Founded by David Ellison in 2006, the company specialized in films, animation, television, video games, and sports.
In 2009, the company entered a five-year partnership to co-produce and co-finance films with Paramount Pictures. This agreement was renewed twice, extending to 2021. On July 7, 2024, Skydance announced its intent to merge with Paramount Global in an $8 billion transaction, under an agreement in which Skydance would acquire Paramount's controlling shareholder National Amusements, and then perform an all-stock merger with the company. On July 24, 2025, the merger was approved by the FCC, and the merger was closed on August 7, 2025, forming Paramount Skydance Corporation."
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skydance_Media
5. IRS is asking taxpayer's to take a Tax Preparation Survey
"WASHINGTON – The IRS invites the public to participate in an anonymous feedback survey on tax preparation and filing options, which will run through Sept. 5, 2025.
The survey is being conducted as part of the Department of Treasury and the IRS’s efforts to fulfill a reporting requirement to Congress under the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act. The law directs Treasury to deliver a report to Congress by Oct. 2, 2025, on several key issues related to free tax filing options for the public.
Treasury and the IRS encourage taxpayers to share their perspectives and help inform this important congressional report.
To participate, visit the Free Online Tax Preparation Feedback Survey or the IRS.gov landing page. Participation is anonymous."
***
Off to bed.
Tuesday is aggravated but making the most of it
Sep. 2nd, 2025 06:23 pmshadowkatSo, the building inspector testing the walls for lead, didn't show up. As a result, he's coming tomorrow, and the super is going to take responsibility for giving him access and protecting the apartment.
He apparently skipped over my apartment and another one - which he was supposed to do in the morning.
See? I knew that was going to happen. Hence the reason, I was aggravated.
If people did their jobs, life would be lovely.
ETA: The medication that the doctor requested from the pharmacy is out of stock - they have to order it, it should be in sometime on Thursday or next week. Sigh.
ETA2: Finished Iron Heart, and the ending doesn't quite work? Or make sense? And felt rushed? I'm not sure it's a cliff-hanger? Since it more or less tells us what happened. ( spoilers ) I didn't like the ending, nor do I think it works, and the writers didn't build up to it well. The series like most of Marvel's recent efforts is busy - with a lot of bits that aren't needed or are there to look cool but add little to the story. I don't think they know how to pull in the younger demographic so keep throwing things at a wall to see what sticks?
ETA3: And got into a frustrating and kind of pointless argument with an online fanboard about a dumb show I watch. It's always dumb television series that I get into pointless debates about. The smart, clever and critically acclaimed shows don't tend to have this problem. (Buffy kind of fell between the two, so yes, I got into dumb debates about it too. As did Game of Thrones for that matter. But usually it's the subpar cult series that run forever. This one has been running since 1963 with no end in sight. It's on its 63rd season. It's officially the longest running scripted television show in the US, I think it beats Doctor Who - since it has more episodes and no long gaps between seasons. That's not necessarily a good thing? Although similar to Doctor Who - it also brings people back from the dead and recasts characters, except without a scientific or logical explanation. Doctor Who at least tries to provide one, this one doesn't bother.)
( never debate/discuss with online soap fans on a spoiler board about a whodunnit in a soap opera - it rarely ends well )
Now that I've mocked myself and them ruthlessly for attempting this tomfoolery, I feel much better, thank you very much.
All in all a fruitful day. Tomorrow I get to go back to work and be aggravated in an even more fruitful manner, plus get paid for it.
September Question a Day Meme
1. It’s National Tofu Day – do you like Tofu?
No. Soy tends to make me ill in large quantities.
2. Festa do Vinho, the Wine Festival, this festival transforms the Island of Madeira into a vibrant showcase of its cultural heritage. Have you ever used Madeira wine in a recipe?
Yes. Not recently, but yes. Also had it.
I think in spaghetti sauce. Also in cake.
Sigh, now I want spaghetti and meatballs with Madeira sauce and I can't have it. Oh well, at least I don't have any in the house.
***
I think I'm going to have the shrimp I bought yesterday with salad. That might take the blood sugar down?
***
On Friday, I stopped by this darling little floral shop called Zuzu's Petals - which called out to me from across the street. (Only people of a certain age will get the reference, because we all saw the movie a million times by the time we reached the age of 30, but they rarely show it now - you kind of have to hunt for it? And it has competition from remake's and rip-offs. Let's face it some types of films they made better in the 20th Century, and leave it at that?)
And wandered around for a bit looking at things, including their backyard garden and floral arrangements. They had dried flowers and fresh ones, wanting to be arranged or bought individually.
( flower arrangements )
And a little backyard garden:
( backyard garden )
I bought a little paint brush holder at the shop (it's actually for air plants, but I'm using it for paint brushes):
( paint brush holder )
That was on Friday. I didn't do much today outside of a doctor's appointment, vacuuming, shower, and dropping off some meds that I can no longer take at the pharmacy.
He apparently skipped over my apartment and another one - which he was supposed to do in the morning.
See? I knew that was going to happen. Hence the reason, I was aggravated.
If people did their jobs, life would be lovely.
ETA: The medication that the doctor requested from the pharmacy is out of stock - they have to order it, it should be in sometime on Thursday or next week. Sigh.
ETA2: Finished Iron Heart, and the ending doesn't quite work? Or make sense? And felt rushed? I'm not sure it's a cliff-hanger? Since it more or less tells us what happened. ( spoilers ) I didn't like the ending, nor do I think it works, and the writers didn't build up to it well. The series like most of Marvel's recent efforts is busy - with a lot of bits that aren't needed or are there to look cool but add little to the story. I don't think they know how to pull in the younger demographic so keep throwing things at a wall to see what sticks?
ETA3: And got into a frustrating and kind of pointless argument with an online fanboard about a dumb show I watch. It's always dumb television series that I get into pointless debates about. The smart, clever and critically acclaimed shows don't tend to have this problem. (Buffy kind of fell between the two, so yes, I got into dumb debates about it too. As did Game of Thrones for that matter. But usually it's the subpar cult series that run forever. This one has been running since 1963 with no end in sight. It's on its 63rd season. It's officially the longest running scripted television show in the US, I think it beats Doctor Who - since it has more episodes and no long gaps between seasons. That's not necessarily a good thing? Although similar to Doctor Who - it also brings people back from the dead and recasts characters, except without a scientific or logical explanation. Doctor Who at least tries to provide one, this one doesn't bother.)
( never debate/discuss with online soap fans on a spoiler board about a whodunnit in a soap opera - it rarely ends well )
Now that I've mocked myself and them ruthlessly for attempting this tomfoolery, I feel much better, thank you very much.
All in all a fruitful day. Tomorrow I get to go back to work and be aggravated in an even more fruitful manner, plus get paid for it.
September Question a Day Meme
1. It’s National Tofu Day – do you like Tofu?
No. Soy tends to make me ill in large quantities.
2. Festa do Vinho, the Wine Festival, this festival transforms the Island of Madeira into a vibrant showcase of its cultural heritage. Have you ever used Madeira wine in a recipe?
Yes. Not recently, but yes. Also had it.
I think in spaghetti sauce. Also in cake.
Sigh, now I want spaghetti and meatballs with Madeira sauce and I can't have it. Oh well, at least I don't have any in the house.
***
I think I'm going to have the shrimp I bought yesterday with salad. That might take the blood sugar down?
***
On Friday, I stopped by this darling little floral shop called Zuzu's Petals - which called out to me from across the street. (Only people of a certain age will get the reference, because we all saw the movie a million times by the time we reached the age of 30, but they rarely show it now - you kind of have to hunt for it? And it has competition from remake's and rip-offs. Let's face it some types of films they made better in the 20th Century, and leave it at that?)
And wandered around for a bit looking at things, including their backyard garden and floral arrangements. They had dried flowers and fresh ones, wanting to be arranged or bought individually.
( flower arrangements )
And a little backyard garden:
( backyard garden )
I bought a little paint brush holder at the shop (it's actually for air plants, but I'm using it for paint brushes):
( paint brush holder )
That was on Friday. I didn't do much today outside of a doctor's appointment, vacuuming, shower, and dropping off some meds that I can no longer take at the pharmacy.
Thursday Murder Club and Iron Heart
Sep. 2nd, 2025 10:26 amshadowkatSo, I had the doctor's virtual appointment - took fifteen minutes, most of which was the doctor trying to get the tech to work. We argued over medication - he talked me into trying a certain type of meds again - which I felt was giving me joint pain, but he said no one gets that side effect and maybe it was something else? And it's the mildest I can use. So, I'm trying it again. Just going to try taking it - away from the rest of my meds. If you take certain meds together - they can result in side-effects.
And it is more than possible that it was water retention causing the joint pain - and the use of the diuretic is helping? God knows. Menopause is not for wimps.
Now waiting for someone to show up and test my apartment for lead. No one has shown up yet.
Saw another flick yesterday, Thursday Murder Club based on Roger Osman's best-selling mystery of the same name. It was directed by Christopher Columbus, and starred quite a few stellar British Actors of a certain age? Became spot the famous British Actor. Helen Mirren, Pierce Bronsan, Ben Kingsley, and Celia Imrie were the leads, with Tom Ellis, David Tennant, Jonathan Price, Paul Freeman and Richard E. Grant in supporting roles.
It's okay? I haven't read the book, so I don't know how close it is, or how good the book was? I'm guessing it follows it closely enough, since the author is one of the producers and consulted. Two female screen-writers wrote the movie. It's what I'd describe as a British Cozy Mystery or Parlor Room Mystery?
The detectives are a bunch of retirees at an independent retirement community, who hold a Thursday Murder Club each week, to solve old cold cases. As the film unravels we learn more about each - although the focus is solidly on Helen Mirren and Celia Imrie's characters, with Bronsan and Kingsley in the supporting roles. Bronsan has a bit more of a role than Kinsley does. There's some nice character bits. And the mystery plot has some nice twists and turns. It also ends in a satisfying manner.
Overall, a solid B effort. Not quite memorable, but worth the time all in all.
**
I also started watching Iron HeartM on Disney +- which is by Chinaka Hodge, with Ryan Coogler executive producing. Previously known for The Midnight Club. It's okay? I'm having troubles getting into it? And in this day and age - it kind of has to hook you in the first episode, or at the very least the second? And I find it more grating than entertaining? It may be that it is a bit too young for me? It's focus is a 19 year old college student who has been expelled from MIT for attempting to do more than the college was equipped for, and what it felt was plagiarism. Riri Williams wanted to create a group of Iron Man suites to protect fire fighters and police offices, but they felt she needed to do it on her own without utilizing Stark's design.
( Read more... )
Anyhow, I've an excuse to be insanely lazy today, because I've promised to be home all day for the test guy. So off to be suitably lazy.
And it is more than possible that it was water retention causing the joint pain - and the use of the diuretic is helping? God knows. Menopause is not for wimps.
Now waiting for someone to show up and test my apartment for lead. No one has shown up yet.
Saw another flick yesterday, Thursday Murder Club based on Roger Osman's best-selling mystery of the same name. It was directed by Christopher Columbus, and starred quite a few stellar British Actors of a certain age? Became spot the famous British Actor. Helen Mirren, Pierce Bronsan, Ben Kingsley, and Celia Imrie were the leads, with Tom Ellis, David Tennant, Jonathan Price, Paul Freeman and Richard E. Grant in supporting roles.
It's okay? I haven't read the book, so I don't know how close it is, or how good the book was? I'm guessing it follows it closely enough, since the author is one of the producers and consulted. Two female screen-writers wrote the movie. It's what I'd describe as a British Cozy Mystery or Parlor Room Mystery?
The detectives are a bunch of retirees at an independent retirement community, who hold a Thursday Murder Club each week, to solve old cold cases. As the film unravels we learn more about each - although the focus is solidly on Helen Mirren and Celia Imrie's characters, with Bronsan and Kingsley in the supporting roles. Bronsan has a bit more of a role than Kinsley does. There's some nice character bits. And the mystery plot has some nice twists and turns. It also ends in a satisfying manner.
Overall, a solid B effort. Not quite memorable, but worth the time all in all.
**
I also started watching Iron HeartM on Disney +- which is by Chinaka Hodge, with Ryan Coogler executive producing. Previously known for The Midnight Club. It's okay? I'm having troubles getting into it? And in this day and age - it kind of has to hook you in the first episode, or at the very least the second? And I find it more grating than entertaining? It may be that it is a bit too young for me? It's focus is a 19 year old college student who has been expelled from MIT for attempting to do more than the college was equipped for, and what it felt was plagiarism. Riri Williams wanted to create a group of Iron Man suites to protect fire fighters and police offices, but they felt she needed to do it on her own without utilizing Stark's design.
( Read more... )
Anyhow, I've an excuse to be insanely lazy today, because I've promised to be home all day for the test guy. So off to be suitably lazy.
Thunderbolts Film Review
Sep. 1st, 2025 08:37 pmshadowkatI finally got around to seeing Thunderbolts - the Marvel flick that was released earlier this summer. I waited until it streamed on Disney + this weekend. So, depending on one's point of view? I saw it for free.
I've mixed feelings about the movie. I liked it a great deal, but like most Marvel films and television series post Endgame, it has its issues.
Thunderbolts unfortunately works better if you've already seen (and remember) Ant Man & the Wasp (I vaguely remember it), The Falcon and the Winter Solider, and Black Widow. I'm not sure if you'd be hopelessly lost if you haven't seen them? But you might be a tad confused? It took me a moment or two to remember who the heck Ghost was, and one character (who dies early on) - I had no idea about. And I've seen those films, along with nearly everything else except Captain America: Brave New World - which might have been required as well? (Not certain - haven't seen it yet. But it might explain what the Winter Solider is up to in this film.)
( the problems with superhero flicks since roughly Endgame )
Thunderbolts is among the more interesting Marvel and Superhero films in part because it is in many ways the antithesis of a superhero film. It's not like DC's Suicide Squad films which are basically a bad ass CIA director putting together a who's who of the worst and most insane villains to fix a problem that no one can fix. I thought it was going to be that? It's most definitely not. Thank god. Let's not go copying each other thank you very much. Whew.
Instead, it's about a bunch of antiheroes banding together because it's either that or die? And they kind of help people partly by chance and it seems like a good idea at the time, albeit clumsily - because you know, they are opportunistic anti-heroes. They aren't nearly as bad as DC's rogues line up. This is more of a group of misunderstood anti-heroes who fell in with the wrong crowd, not insane sociopaths. Marvel does a decent job via an intriguing flashback device of giving some of them complicated back stories and mental health issues.
The movie shines a light on mental illness as it applies to highly skilled and dangerous individuals. That's the focal point. Not a heist, not some external threat - the threat is more an internal one. And their powers, especially one of the characters, are metaphors for the dangers of untreated mental illness in our society at large - and how left untreated, it could threaten to devour us all, if the wrong folks get into positions of power or obtain power.
These seven-eight characters have to learn how to trust each other and themselves long enough to save the city and themselves and each other. And they don't trust themselves let alone anyone else.
( vague spoilers )
Overall a solid B effort from Marvel, better than the last few flicks I've seen, but that's not a high bar to navigate.
I've mixed feelings about the movie. I liked it a great deal, but like most Marvel films and television series post Endgame, it has its issues.
Thunderbolts unfortunately works better if you've already seen (and remember) Ant Man & the Wasp (I vaguely remember it), The Falcon and the Winter Solider, and Black Widow. I'm not sure if you'd be hopelessly lost if you haven't seen them? But you might be a tad confused? It took me a moment or two to remember who the heck Ghost was, and one character (who dies early on) - I had no idea about. And I've seen those films, along with nearly everything else except Captain America: Brave New World - which might have been required as well? (Not certain - haven't seen it yet. But it might explain what the Winter Solider is up to in this film.)
( the problems with superhero flicks since roughly Endgame )
Thunderbolts is among the more interesting Marvel and Superhero films in part because it is in many ways the antithesis of a superhero film. It's not like DC's Suicide Squad films which are basically a bad ass CIA director putting together a who's who of the worst and most insane villains to fix a problem that no one can fix. I thought it was going to be that? It's most definitely not. Thank god. Let's not go copying each other thank you very much. Whew.
Instead, it's about a bunch of antiheroes banding together because it's either that or die? And they kind of help people partly by chance and it seems like a good idea at the time, albeit clumsily - because you know, they are opportunistic anti-heroes. They aren't nearly as bad as DC's rogues line up. This is more of a group of misunderstood anti-heroes who fell in with the wrong crowd, not insane sociopaths. Marvel does a decent job via an intriguing flashback device of giving some of them complicated back stories and mental health issues.
The movie shines a light on mental illness as it applies to highly skilled and dangerous individuals. That's the focal point. Not a heist, not some external threat - the threat is more an internal one. And their powers, especially one of the characters, are metaphors for the dangers of untreated mental illness in our society at large - and how left untreated, it could threaten to devour us all, if the wrong folks get into positions of power or obtain power.
These seven-eight characters have to learn how to trust each other and themselves long enough to save the city and themselves and each other. And they don't trust themselves let alone anyone else.
( vague spoilers )
Overall a solid B effort from Marvel, better than the last few flicks I've seen, but that's not a high bar to navigate.
End of August Memage and Happy Labor Day to those who get the day off
Sep. 1st, 2025 03:12 pmshadowkatI'm debating, do I want to take another walk? Eh, probably not. Depends on blood sugar - right now, it appears to be going down. My life is now being determined by blood sugar. Ah well, tomorrow, I'll see the doctor. [ETA: Took a walk with the intent of getting a gluten free freshly baked chocolate chip cookie - but the store closed at 3pm on Mondays, and I got there at 4pm. The Universe clearly didn't want me to get a chocolate chip cookie.]
I've done a lot of walking the last three days, and I'm tired. I think I'll be fine with the excuse of not leaving my apartment tomorrow - so that they can test for lead whenever they get around to it? I did laundry this morning, so got that out of the way at least, along with a shower just a moment ago, and several hours prior to that grocery shopping. Also took the new shoes I got from Allbirds for a walk yesterday - broke them in. I think they can handle maybe a mile, but the length of yesterday's walk might require shoes with socks in the future, or sandals? The new sandals can handle it. They were cheaper than the Allbirds. I keep getting Allbirds, and no matter the pair? It has a quirk.
Catching up on the End of August Memage:
27. Are you a fan of bananas? Do you like to bake with them, or eat them raw?
No. I do not like bananas. The appeal is completely lost on me.
28. When was the last time you spent a night (or more than one night) away from home?
May - when I visited my mother for mother's day.
29. How many times have you moved home so far in your life? Do you plan to move again in the future?
17 times. And yes, most likely. I rent - so I tend to move whenever the rent gets too high for the what I'm actually getting in regards to the apartment.
30. Has the area where you live changed much over the last decade?
Not really? I mean sections have - it's Brooklyn and NYC and this city is in a constant state of flux and construction, but overall no.
31. Do you have any plans for the next month?
Hmm. I have doctor's appointments at the beginning of the month. Nothing else that is definite at any rate
I've done a lot of walking the last three days, and I'm tired. I think I'll be fine with the excuse of not leaving my apartment tomorrow - so that they can test for lead whenever they get around to it? I did laundry this morning, so got that out of the way at least, along with a shower just a moment ago, and several hours prior to that grocery shopping. Also took the new shoes I got from Allbirds for a walk yesterday - broke them in. I think they can handle maybe a mile, but the length of yesterday's walk might require shoes with socks in the future, or sandals? The new sandals can handle it. They were cheaper than the Allbirds. I keep getting Allbirds, and no matter the pair? It has a quirk.
Catching up on the End of August Memage:
27. Are you a fan of bananas? Do you like to bake with them, or eat them raw?
No. I do not like bananas. The appeal is completely lost on me.
28. When was the last time you spent a night (or more than one night) away from home?
May - when I visited my mother for mother's day.
29. How many times have you moved home so far in your life? Do you plan to move again in the future?
17 times. And yes, most likely. I rent - so I tend to move whenever the rent gets too high for the what I'm actually getting in regards to the apartment.
30. Has the area where you live changed much over the last decade?
Not really? I mean sections have - it's Brooklyn and NYC and this city is in a constant state of flux and construction, but overall no.
31. Do you have any plans for the next month?
Hmm. I have doctor's appointments at the beginning of the month. Nothing else that is definite at any rate
Code deploy happening shortly
Aug. 31st, 2025 07:37 pm![[staff profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user_staff.png){kind=small}
mark posting in ![[site community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/comm_staff.png){kind=small}
dw_maintenancePer the dw_news post regarding the MS/TN blocks, we are doing a small code push shortly in order to get the code live. As per usual, please let us know if you see anything wonky.
There is some code cleanup we've been doing that is going out with this push but I don't think there is any new/reworked functionality, so it should be pretty invisible if all goes well.
A visit to The Old Stone House
Aug. 31st, 2025 05:38 pmshadowkatOn Friday, instead of going into the city to see the Jane Austen exhibit, I decided to go tour the The Old Stone House Museum. I was in the general vicinity so it seemed like a good timing. It's not easy to get to from where I live, since it is located in the middle of Gowanus, and just a touch west of Park Slope, in the middle of the R line in Brooklyn.
Turns out that the Old Stone House had an art exhibit on the second floor. They do revolving contemporary art exhibitions. The House isn't refurbished to look like it did back in the day - instead, it has an interactive Revolutionary and Colonial Historical exhibit on the first floor, and on the second revolving art exhibitions, while outside various gardens, and space for theatrical performances, playing fields, and musical performances, also hearth cooking.
The Old Stone House dates back to 1699 and was commissioned by Dutch settlers who took the land from the Marechkawick and Lenape.
( history of the Old Stone House )
And was the site of one of the biggest battles of the American Revolutionary War - known as the Battle of Brooklyn. The Americans lost a pivotal battle at the Old Stone House, and proceeded to occupy Manhattan and Brooklyn for the next 7 years. Also, during this time, it should be noted that there were more slaves working and living at the Old Stone House than free people. The Dutch settlers, from the Netherlands, owned and brought slaves.
Little markup of the Old Stone House during the Battle of Brooklyn:
Gardens:
Farm Garden:
( farm garden )
South Dutch Garden and Potting Shed:
( south dutch garden and potting shed )
And on the second floor of the house was an intriguing little art exhibit, which for once, I took pictures of. I normally don't - but there was no one up there and no one seemed to mind.
The Exhibition is a collective series of works around a general theme "Nothing is Fixed".
"Nothing is Fixed reflects the tumultuous Trump presidency and the destabilization of societal norms, echoing James Baldwin’s words:
“Nothing is fixed, forever, and forever, and forever. It is not fixed. The earth is always shifting, the light is always changing, the sea does not cease to grind down rock. What you have, you hold. What you don’t have, you can’t hold.”(Nothing Personal, 1964)
Just as the natural world constantly shifts, so too can our political and social systems evolve—sometimes for the worse, but also for the better. This exhibition examines the tension between a moment of deep division and uncertainty, and with an underlying optimism that change is inevitable and can lead to growth, healing, and progress. By confronting the instability of our current moment, the work suggests that while nothing is static, the direction of change remains in our collective hands."
( art from Nothing is Fixed Exhibition )
So, I've managed to see one museum that I've never visited before, just have about 159 to go? I know I've seen at least 7 others.
Turns out that the Old Stone House had an art exhibit on the second floor. They do revolving contemporary art exhibitions. The House isn't refurbished to look like it did back in the day - instead, it has an interactive Revolutionary and Colonial Historical exhibit on the first floor, and on the second revolving art exhibitions, while outside various gardens, and space for theatrical performances, playing fields, and musical performances, also hearth cooking.
The Old Stone House dates back to 1699 and was commissioned by Dutch settlers who took the land from the Marechkawick and Lenape.
( history of the Old Stone House )
And was the site of one of the biggest battles of the American Revolutionary War - known as the Battle of Brooklyn. The Americans lost a pivotal battle at the Old Stone House, and proceeded to occupy Manhattan and Brooklyn for the next 7 years. Also, during this time, it should be noted that there were more slaves working and living at the Old Stone House than free people. The Dutch settlers, from the Netherlands, owned and brought slaves.
Little markup of the Old Stone House during the Battle of Brooklyn:
Gardens:
Farm Garden:
( farm garden )
South Dutch Garden and Potting Shed:
( south dutch garden and potting shed )
And on the second floor of the house was an intriguing little art exhibit, which for once, I took pictures of. I normally don't - but there was no one up there and no one seemed to mind.
The Exhibition is a collective series of works around a general theme "Nothing is Fixed".
"Nothing is Fixed reflects the tumultuous Trump presidency and the destabilization of societal norms, echoing James Baldwin’s words:
“Nothing is fixed, forever, and forever, and forever. It is not fixed. The earth is always shifting, the light is always changing, the sea does not cease to grind down rock. What you have, you hold. What you don’t have, you can’t hold.”(Nothing Personal, 1964)
Just as the natural world constantly shifts, so too can our political and social systems evolve—sometimes for the worse, but also for the better. This exhibition examines the tension between a moment of deep division and uncertainty, and with an underlying optimism that change is inevitable and can lead to growth, healing, and progress. By confronting the instability of our current moment, the work suggests that while nothing is static, the direction of change remains in our collective hands."
( art from Nothing is Fixed Exhibition )
So, I've managed to see one museum that I've never visited before, just have about 159 to go? I know I've seen at least 7 others.
Sundays are meant to be lazy...and meander around cemetaries...
Aug. 31st, 2025 04:52 pmshadowkatIt's a beautiful day - with a clear blue sky, and in the low seventies. I'm thinking maybe Greenwood Cemetery today. Which I actually managed to do - took an hour and a half walk to, through, and from the cemetery - entering from another entrance. (I wanted to see what the houses across from the cemetery looked like - on the Windsor Terrace side of the fence, and well, not that great? Note to self - do not try to go the cemetery at night to do the night activities - unless you can get a chauffeur to take you to and from the cemetery. They have an electrical substation across the street from the Windsor Terrace entrance.) This resulted in nicely lowering my blood sugar (after the ploughman's lunch and the donut). It had gone high, now it's within range. If I'm doing carbs, try to exercise immediately afterwards. I didn't like the donut - it reminded me of a miniature bundt cake with chocolate frosting filling, except with the texture of a cake donut, and the donut taste. It was too thick and too much like cake. So far Sixteen Mills is really good at Belgian waffles and bread, not so much at muffins and donuts. Which is okay - other places can do those. Best muffins I've had - were at a place that appears to have disappeared or gone out of business? This happens a lot in the city. One never quite gets used to it.
***
Entertainment Bits
1. Watched this youtube podcast with Katee Sackhoff (Starbuck BSG, and was in Longmire, and Bo-Kataan in Mandalorian) and Tahmoh Penkikett (Helo BSG, and Ballard Dollhouse, among others). They discuss losing your confidence during your craft - that resonated with me. And how it can throw you off your game. Also how folks think your talent comes easily and you don't have to work at it - which couldn't be any more untrue.
Here's the Podcast
It's about halfway through the podcast. And then they talk about BSG filming and the audition process.
Katee Sackhoff (Starbuck from BSG) is doing podcasts with various castmates from BSG, and other science fiction serials, television shows, etc. She's done 69 in one year - which is kind of amazing actually. Most people barely get out 20. It's the new trend - former television stars doing podcasts on youtube and patreon. Everyone has one. Pick your television star. I personally like Michael Rosenbloom's the best, but we also have Will Wheaton, Katee Sackhoff (who I actually find kind of charming), Charisma Carpenter (whose voice sets my teeth on edge for some reason that I can't put my finger on - no fault of the actress, is rewatching Buffy as both Cordelia and Charisma Carpenter), Juliet Landau (is rewatching Buffy as both Juliet Landau and Drusilla)....
They've also discovered that conventions is the way to go - you can do theater, network with folks in the craft, meet up with old friends, and get paid for it. And since they can't get residuals any longer - this is the only money they get. So if you are into going to fan conventions? More power to you.
2. Finished a few television shows:
High Country - an Australian detective limited series. It only has one season. I think it probably was set up for more than one, but didn't get picked up for a second season? The detective is half-aboriginal and half-white. She is selected by the current, retiring sheriff to come up to the High Country from the City Police department in Melbourne, and take over his position. So, Addy brings up her wife and the wife's daughter to the High Country, and ends up investigating a bunch of missing persons cases.
It's good, a bit choppy in places, but I really enjoyed it. The lead played by Leah Purcell was quite good. But her wife, kind of got on my nerves, and I wanted more of her relationship with the retired sheriff, Sam and the father of her kid's boyfriend.
Wednesday S2 - Part I - which is actually better than S1, partly because they wisely bring in and focus more on Wednesday, Wednesday's family and less on her fellow students and the school. We see less of Enid, and there is less of the romantic triangle bit. Wednesday doesn't have a romance at all - the wrote out Xiaver completely. And this actually works better, because Wednesday doesn't work with a romance.
It gets better as it goes. And while Thandie Newton is underused? Her grandmother is a lovely addition. And once again Burton's style is often better than the writing, but overall - it was an entertaining binge.
*****
On the way home yesterday, I passed a sign in the subway that stated, black print on a white backing in huge letters:
friend (noun)
a person who listens to you, and often responds, and supports you.
I've been meditating on it off and on ever since.
***
Entertainment Bits
1. Watched this youtube podcast with Katee Sackhoff (Starbuck BSG, and was in Longmire, and Bo-Kataan in Mandalorian) and Tahmoh Penkikett (Helo BSG, and Ballard Dollhouse, among others). They discuss losing your confidence during your craft - that resonated with me. And how it can throw you off your game. Also how folks think your talent comes easily and you don't have to work at it - which couldn't be any more untrue.
Here's the Podcast
It's about halfway through the podcast. And then they talk about BSG filming and the audition process.
Katee Sackhoff (Starbuck from BSG) is doing podcasts with various castmates from BSG, and other science fiction serials, television shows, etc. She's done 69 in one year - which is kind of amazing actually. Most people barely get out 20. It's the new trend - former television stars doing podcasts on youtube and patreon. Everyone has one. Pick your television star. I personally like Michael Rosenbloom's the best, but we also have Will Wheaton, Katee Sackhoff (who I actually find kind of charming), Charisma Carpenter (whose voice sets my teeth on edge for some reason that I can't put my finger on - no fault of the actress, is rewatching Buffy as both Cordelia and Charisma Carpenter), Juliet Landau (is rewatching Buffy as both Juliet Landau and Drusilla)....
They've also discovered that conventions is the way to go - you can do theater, network with folks in the craft, meet up with old friends, and get paid for it. And since they can't get residuals any longer - this is the only money they get. So if you are into going to fan conventions? More power to you.
2. Finished a few television shows:
High Country - an Australian detective limited series. It only has one season. I think it probably was set up for more than one, but didn't get picked up for a second season? The detective is half-aboriginal and half-white. She is selected by the current, retiring sheriff to come up to the High Country from the City Police department in Melbourne, and take over his position. So, Addy brings up her wife and the wife's daughter to the High Country, and ends up investigating a bunch of missing persons cases.
It's good, a bit choppy in places, but I really enjoyed it. The lead played by Leah Purcell was quite good. But her wife, kind of got on my nerves, and I wanted more of her relationship with the retired sheriff, Sam and the father of her kid's boyfriend.
Wednesday S2 - Part I - which is actually better than S1, partly because they wisely bring in and focus more on Wednesday, Wednesday's family and less on her fellow students and the school. We see less of Enid, and there is less of the romantic triangle bit. Wednesday doesn't have a romance at all - the wrote out Xiaver completely. And this actually works better, because Wednesday doesn't work with a romance.
It gets better as it goes. And while Thandie Newton is underused? Her grandmother is a lovely addition. And once again Burton's style is often better than the writing, but overall - it was an entertaining binge.
*****
On the way home yesterday, I passed a sign in the subway that stated, black print on a white backing in huge letters:
friend (noun)
a person who listens to you, and often responds, and supports you.
I've been meditating on it off and on ever since.
Saturday found cash on the sidewalk so bought a book and another matcha latte
Aug. 30th, 2025 04:58 pmshadowkatHad the required dental visit - which I do, infrequently. I get the same lecture every time: you should come every six months, if not sooner, you should wear mouth guard or you can do botox injections -
( Read more... )
Because I slept badly the night before - due to various factors, inclusive of being aggravated by the building management's incompetence in scheduling building inspectors and high blood sugar - I didn't walk as far as planned today. Also Transit was doing track work - so the trains were screwed up again. Lots of construction work everywhere - I live in a city that is perpetually under construction.
On the way to Lofty Pigeons books, the only book store that doesn't appear to carry a lot of Stephen King or Neil Gaiman books, I found a twenty dollar bill and a ten dollar bill on the sidewalk. I looked down, saw what I expected to be a one dollar or five dollar bill, and it was a twenty. Then looked around to see who dropped it - there was no one nearby. So I decided the Universe wanted me to buy a book today. It was also in the exact amount as the book I wanted to buy - $30.00.
So I did manage to buy the book I'd been hunting everywhere - since I read about it on coll's journal - "The Antidote by Karen Russell". I kept talking myself out of it - telling myself to buy it on Kindle (except I tend to lose track of the things I get on the Kindle, also I don't really own them outright? If I stop using the Kindle - they go bye-bye.)
***
The Sourdough Foccacia Bread that I bought yesterday is amazing. That has got to be the best sourdough foccacia gluten free bread that I've ever had. It doesn't require anything - not even really butter. You know it's good bread - when you can eat it plain. I decided to do a ploughman's lunch, with the bread, some hard swiss cheese, brie, some hard salami, English Mustard (Frackles), dill pickles, celery, carrots, olives, and some lettuce. It was lovely. And for desert - another piece of bread with butter, plus the unsweetened matcha latte (unfortunately only the ones in the city have unsweetened almond milk, the ones in Brooklyn - I had to get whole milk or skim, because their nut and oat milks have agave.)
I've decided I may order the bread, and pick it up on the way home from work sometimes. You can do that. Or get Doordash to deliver it.
All in all a productive day. I even got my allbirds shoes, which I can wear without socks. Although I'm wrestling with getting orthoshoes - with inserts. You can get them with FSA, but I don't think I have enough left on the card - with the dental appointments, and soon, contacts, plus other meds that I put on it.
Here's another wall mural or Brooklyn Street Art - that I saw on the way home from the dental appointment.
( close ups of the mural )
( Read more... )
Because I slept badly the night before - due to various factors, inclusive of being aggravated by the building management's incompetence in scheduling building inspectors and high blood sugar - I didn't walk as far as planned today. Also Transit was doing track work - so the trains were screwed up again. Lots of construction work everywhere - I live in a city that is perpetually under construction.
On the way to Lofty Pigeons books, the only book store that doesn't appear to carry a lot of Stephen King or Neil Gaiman books, I found a twenty dollar bill and a ten dollar bill on the sidewalk. I looked down, saw what I expected to be a one dollar or five dollar bill, and it was a twenty. Then looked around to see who dropped it - there was no one nearby. So I decided the Universe wanted me to buy a book today. It was also in the exact amount as the book I wanted to buy - $30.00.
So I did manage to buy the book I'd been hunting everywhere - since I read about it on coll's journal - "The Antidote by Karen Russell". I kept talking myself out of it - telling myself to buy it on Kindle (except I tend to lose track of the things I get on the Kindle, also I don't really own them outright? If I stop using the Kindle - they go bye-bye.)
***
The Sourdough Foccacia Bread that I bought yesterday is amazing. That has got to be the best sourdough foccacia gluten free bread that I've ever had. It doesn't require anything - not even really butter. You know it's good bread - when you can eat it plain. I decided to do a ploughman's lunch, with the bread, some hard swiss cheese, brie, some hard salami, English Mustard (Frackles), dill pickles, celery, carrots, olives, and some lettuce. It was lovely. And for desert - another piece of bread with butter, plus the unsweetened matcha latte (unfortunately only the ones in the city have unsweetened almond milk, the ones in Brooklyn - I had to get whole milk or skim, because their nut and oat milks have agave.)
I've decided I may order the bread, and pick it up on the way home from work sometimes. You can do that. Or get Doordash to deliver it.
All in all a productive day. I even got my allbirds shoes, which I can wear without socks. Although I'm wrestling with getting orthoshoes - with inserts. You can get them with FSA, but I don't think I have enough left on the card - with the dental appointments, and soon, contacts, plus other meds that I put on it.
Here's another wall mural or Brooklyn Street Art - that I saw on the way home from the dental appointment.
( close ups of the mural )
Friday took the day off to get a hair cut, go to a museum, and wander about buying goodies
Aug. 29th, 2025 08:13 pmshadowkatLovely day, almost spoiled by annoying request by super. I have to stay home all day on Tuesday, in order for the building inspector to do a 10-15 lead paint test in my apartment.
This is the aggravating text thread from super, who is Polish, and fluent in Russian but not really English. (Honestly, I feel at times that I'm living in a foreign country when I'm in NYC.)
( it may be humorous...in an absurdist theater sort of way. )
I basically gave up. I don't know why I'm annoyed that I have to stay home on Tuesday - when I do that on a lot of weekends? Although I could use the time to clean out my fridge or closet?
***
I took a lovely long walk after I got my hair done, with lots of photos to share. But too many for one post? Maybe I'll split them up among various posts.
And accomplished a lot - usually when I intend on going shopping, I can't find a thing? This round, I didn't really intend on finding all that much - and scored.
Sixteen Mills Bakery had been highly recommended to me by various folks, but alas, it's on Union and 3rd Avenue, which is a ways and not convenient to get to from my home. ( Read more... )
Afterwards, I headed up to 4th Avenue and walked towards The Old Stone House Museum and Washington Park - I'd never been, and saw that it was on the way back to the subway on 4th Avenue. But, you have to walk halfway up to fifth avenue to get to it, since Washington playing fields and park is in front of it. (This is a fake grass field for kids to play soccer and various sports on - it leads up to the Old Stone House Museum, with its gardens.) This is another post - because I went inside, took photos, and outside and took photos. And there's no room for it in this one. Also I have to go to bed - because I got a Dental appointment tomorrow morning. (I also went to a flower store - got a container for paint brushes, and a shoe store - got shoes, and home.) Show those in another post as well. It was a total of 2-3 miles altogether.
So, to be continued?
Here's a photo from my walk.
This is the aggravating text thread from super, who is Polish, and fluent in Russian but not really English. (Honestly, I feel at times that I'm living in a foreign country when I'm in NYC.)
( it may be humorous...in an absurdist theater sort of way. )
I basically gave up. I don't know why I'm annoyed that I have to stay home on Tuesday - when I do that on a lot of weekends? Although I could use the time to clean out my fridge or closet?
***
I took a lovely long walk after I got my hair done, with lots of photos to share. But too many for one post? Maybe I'll split them up among various posts.
And accomplished a lot - usually when I intend on going shopping, I can't find a thing? This round, I didn't really intend on finding all that much - and scored.
Sixteen Mills Bakery had been highly recommended to me by various folks, but alas, it's on Union and 3rd Avenue, which is a ways and not convenient to get to from my home. ( Read more... )
Afterwards, I headed up to 4th Avenue and walked towards The Old Stone House Museum and Washington Park - I'd never been, and saw that it was on the way back to the subway on 4th Avenue. But, you have to walk halfway up to fifth avenue to get to it, since Washington playing fields and park is in front of it. (This is a fake grass field for kids to play soccer and various sports on - it leads up to the Old Stone House Museum, with its gardens.) This is another post - because I went inside, took photos, and outside and took photos. And there's no room for it in this one. Also I have to go to bed - because I got a Dental appointment tomorrow morning. (I also went to a flower store - got a container for paint brushes, and a shoe store - got shoes, and home.) Show those in another post as well. It was a total of 2-3 miles altogether.
So, to be continued?
Here's a photo from my walk.
A Postive Academic Post...of sorts?
Aug. 27th, 2025 05:59 pmshadowkatPotential educational opportunities
Harvard Has Released $40,000 Worth of Courses Free in 2025
No applications.
No tuition.
Completely free and online.
Here are 5 powerful picks to start with:
( see below )
Damn. Harvard's fighting the evil fascists by providing free educational programs to everyone online. I shared the information with my brother and my niece.
Harvard Has Released $40,000 Worth of Courses Free in 2025
No applications.
No tuition.
Completely free and online.
Here are 5 powerful picks to start with:
( see below )
Damn. Harvard's fighting the evil fascists by providing free educational programs to everyone online. I shared the information with my brother and my niece.
Some interesting items of note?
Aug. 26th, 2025 09:04 pmshadowkat1. Hmmm, I've lived in NYC for over 25 years, and I didn't know this Book Store existed. It's on the upper east side near the MET.
"Tucked away inside the French Embassy’s Payne Whitney mansion on NYC’s Upper East Side, Albertine Books is one of New York City’s best-kept secrets—and now, it’s getting global recognition as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world by book-loving travel guide 1000 Libraries.
Walk through its grand doors and you’ll find yourself beneath a breathtaking zodiac-painted ceiling, surrounded by elegant dark wood, celestial murals, and more than 14,000 French and English titles. It’s the only bookstore in New York City dedicated entirely to French-language works and translations, making it a true cultural gem for literature lovers."
I foresee a trip to the Met, the bookstore, and a gluten free bakery with croissants in my future. All on the upper east side. Along with a foray into Central Park. It's been a long time since I've gone. I tend to spend most of my time in Brooklyn.
Note to non-New Yorkers? The City = Manhattan. Brooklyn is Brooklyn, Bronx is the Bronx, Queens is Queens, and Staten Island is Staten Island. Long Island is Long Island. Upstate - is basically everywhere NORTH of the City and the Bronx. But Manhattan to New Yorkers is referred to as simply - "the City", and everyone knows what you are talking about.
Gotta love a French Book store - I can actually read rudimentary French.
2. Saw a letter from Betrand Russell to Sir Oswald about fascism on Face Book, posted by Rahael. (It reminded me of why I liked Betrand Russel - who I read a lot of in the 1980s.)
Betrand Russell's artful letter refusing to debate British Fascist Leader Oswald Mosely
(A character based on Mosely was also featured (deservingly so) as a villain in the last season of Peaky Blinders.)
3. Apparently they are starting a Robot Taxi program in NYC this fall.
The Taxi and Limousin Commission is understandably upset about it.
" New Yorkers are about to meet a new kind of traffic jam companion: the robotaxi. Beginning in September, Waymo, the Alphabet-owned autonomous vehicle company, will put its self-driving cars on the streets of Manhattan and Downtown Brooklyn.
Before you panic about an empty driver’s seat whizzing down Flatbush, rest assured: State law requires a trained specialist behind the wheel at all times. So yes, there will still be a human gripping the steering wheel while the car quietly does most of the thinking."
As someone who cannot drive - I find the news of self-driving vehicles kind of reassuring? On the other hand - I can already imagine the confusion of more than one person telling the car where they want to go. Not sure how that will work? Just that I'm very glad I rarely, if ever, take any sort of motorized vehicle in the city. I just do subways and walking, thank you very much.
4. Details on Depart Q S2 on Netflix.
"Tucked away inside the French Embassy’s Payne Whitney mansion on NYC’s Upper East Side, Albertine Books is one of New York City’s best-kept secrets—and now, it’s getting global recognition as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world by book-loving travel guide 1000 Libraries.
Walk through its grand doors and you’ll find yourself beneath a breathtaking zodiac-painted ceiling, surrounded by elegant dark wood, celestial murals, and more than 14,000 French and English titles. It’s the only bookstore in New York City dedicated entirely to French-language works and translations, making it a true cultural gem for literature lovers."
I foresee a trip to the Met, the bookstore, and a gluten free bakery with croissants in my future. All on the upper east side. Along with a foray into Central Park. It's been a long time since I've gone. I tend to spend most of my time in Brooklyn.
Note to non-New Yorkers? The City = Manhattan. Brooklyn is Brooklyn, Bronx is the Bronx, Queens is Queens, and Staten Island is Staten Island. Long Island is Long Island. Upstate - is basically everywhere NORTH of the City and the Bronx. But Manhattan to New Yorkers is referred to as simply - "the City", and everyone knows what you are talking about.
Gotta love a French Book store - I can actually read rudimentary French.
2. Saw a letter from Betrand Russell to Sir Oswald about fascism on Face Book, posted by Rahael. (It reminded me of why I liked Betrand Russel - who I read a lot of in the 1980s.)
Betrand Russell's artful letter refusing to debate British Fascist Leader Oswald Mosely
(A character based on Mosely was also featured (deservingly so) as a villain in the last season of Peaky Blinders.)
3. Apparently they are starting a Robot Taxi program in NYC this fall.
The Taxi and Limousin Commission is understandably upset about it.
" New Yorkers are about to meet a new kind of traffic jam companion: the robotaxi. Beginning in September, Waymo, the Alphabet-owned autonomous vehicle company, will put its self-driving cars on the streets of Manhattan and Downtown Brooklyn.
Before you panic about an empty driver’s seat whizzing down Flatbush, rest assured: State law requires a trained specialist behind the wheel at all times. So yes, there will still be a human gripping the steering wheel while the car quietly does most of the thinking."
As someone who cannot drive - I find the news of self-driving vehicles kind of reassuring? On the other hand - I can already imagine the confusion of more than one person telling the car where they want to go. Not sure how that will work? Just that I'm very glad I rarely, if ever, take any sort of motorized vehicle in the city. I just do subways and walking, thank you very much.
4. Details on Depart Q S2 on Netflix.