What’s on your mind?

[jedimasterkyle]

Are there women out there who are turned on by a guy sitting at home in his PJ's playing with a large fish

Reading through the comments, this image was the FIRST thing that came to mind lol

 

[The Clark]

Please, please, please, - as a grown ass woman (to use an expression my American interlocutors might get, or understand, or relate to), might I request - implore you, entreat you, beseech you - to refer to the people you wish to date, or meet, or even hook up with, as "women", and not as....... "girls".

Not least because one devoutly hopes that you wish to date women, rather than, girls.

I write as one who has never quite understood the appeal (and I have heard it seriously defended by male acquaintances) of Lolita.

Even in my teens - and that is quite some time ago - I must admit to that pronounced, and profoundly uncomfortable, squirming sensation - the one where the feeling is the kind of "ick" that signals the onset of an unsettled stomach, sort of reminiscent of the sordid sight of a sink, or pool, of filthy water lapping against some barrier, or wall....whenever I heard an adult male discuss a desire to meet "girls" rather than women.

Anyway, I agree (completely) with @mollyc - whose post I have taken the liberty of quoting:

Amen, @mollyc.

I will use the term Women from now on, though I cringe at the grown ass woman line.

@mollyc When it's a serious prospect I go all out. Dinners, flowers, meeting families and taking a serious interest in all elements of their life etc. However, these days you have to be exceedingly careful who you put effort into, as dating is not what it once was. There are women out there who will lead you on for a free meal. Sad but true. I only put in what I get out.

 

[The Clark]

Reading through the comments, this image was the FIRST thing that came to mind lol

View attachment 2470296

This is accurate I'm afraid.

 

[Macky-Mac]

Yep. I have friends who live near the beach there and they've already had to evacuate.

There's also another fire burning near Pasadena. This is apparently the driest start to the year on record. We've effectively had no rain since last spring where I am.

No rain since spring here either.....and a third fire is now burning near Sylmar in the Valley. There was a huge smoke cloud overhead this morning. Fortunately the direction of the wind is keeping the fire away from my neighborhood.

The Palisades fire has spread to 5000 acres with over 1000 structures destroyed according to reports this morning.....and the fire is still burning

ugh!

 

[rm5]

Strongly considering dropping one of my classes (and of course replacing with something else). Today was the first class session I attended (I missed Monday) and it was just way over my head. I felt very uncomfortable and had no idea what was going on, even after being all caught up. And this is just the first week. Sure, I've taken many difficult classes in the past, but this one was just different. Not only was it simply too much, but I just don't know how I'd feasibly do well in it.

Seemed interesting at the outset, but I didn't quite know what to expect.

 

[goldmac2006]

No rain since spring here either.....and a third fire is now burning near Sylmar in the Valley. There was a huge smoke cloud overhead this morning. Fortunately the direction of the wind is keeping the fire away from my neighborhood.

The Palisades fire has spread to 5000 acres with over 1000 structures destroyed according to reports this morning.....and the fire is still burning

ugh!

We may be in a drought again. For real. 😳

Strongly considering dropping one of my classes (and of course replacing with something else). Today was the first class session I attended (I missed Monday) and it was just way over my head. I felt very uncomfortable and had no idea what was going on, even after being all caught up. And this is just the first week. Sure, I've taken many difficult classes in the past, but this one was just different. Not only was it simply too much, but I just don't know how I'd feasibly do well in it.

Seemed interesting at the outset, but I didn't quite know what to expect.

try to give it another week or two, and see if you can still do your homework. If you still feel super unwell and need to drop a class, then you can proceed. Make sure to check your institution’s policy on excused withdrawals. You may have to get a note from your doctor if the school requires documentation.

I’m still on winter break so luckily don’t have to deal with windy weather and extremes that I know of around the winter time.

 

[rm5]

try to give it another week or two, and see if you can still do your homework. If you still feel super unwell and need to drop a class, then you can proceed. Make sure to check your institution’s policy on excused withdrawals. You may have to get a note from your doctor if the school requires documentation.

Unfortunately this is not possible. Here's how it works here:

• You can change your schedule (drop/add/replace classes and MUEN courses--ensembles) up through the first week of classes (i.e. this Friday at 5:00 PM)
• You can drop a class up until 7th week. This differs from above, because you cannot replace it with something else. You just drop it and have no replacement.
• After these periods, (first week for changing schedule and 7th week for dropping classes), you must file a petition with a compelling reason.

However, not only would I need to drop the class, I would ALSO need to replace it with another one (i.e. change my schedule). So I only have two more days to make a decision.

 

[goldmac2006]

Unfortunately this is not possible. Here's how it works here:

• You can change your schedule (drop/add/replace classes and MUEN courses--ensembles) up through the first week of classes (i.e. this Friday at 5:00 PM)
• You can drop a class up until 7th week
• After these periods, (first week for changing schedule and 7th week for dropping classes), you must file a petition with a compelling reason.

However, not only would I need to drop the class, I would ALSO need to replace it with another one (i.e. change my schedule). So I only have two more days to make a decision.

Can you meet with a counselor before the deadline? You can also send them an email. They will discuss your options further with you.

 

[rm5]

Can you meet with a counselor before the deadline? You can also send them an email. They will discuss your options further with you.

My advisor teaches Advanced Improvisation, which I have tomorrow morning. I already emailed him, and will discuss with him after class tomorrow.

 

[DaveFromCampbelltown]

Strongly considering dropping one of my classes (and of course replacing with something else). Today was the first class session I attended (I missed Monday) and it was just way over my head. I felt very uncomfortable and had no idea what was going on, even after being all caught up. And this is just the first week. Sure, I've taken many difficult classes in the past, but this one was just different. Not only was it simply too much, but I just don't know how I'd feasibly do well in it.

Seemed interesting at the outset, but I didn't quite know what to expect.

Been there, done that, twice, after the first lecture.

First was a maths course on Linear Algebra. Couldn't understand the first lecture, dropped it, signed up for a course called Biogeography. I learnt so much more about the world from that course.

Second was a course in Botanical Evolution. Couldn't understand the first lecture, dropped it, signed up for a course in Computer Programming. That, in later years, changed the whole direction of my working life.

Caveat. In my case, I lucked out. That won't happen for everyone.

However, we all have areas that are not within our set of mental competencies. This is not a matter for embarrassment or shame. It just is.
And we all have areas that are. This is not a matter for overweening pride. It just is.

Find a course that is interesting, and will expand your horizons.

 

[goldmac2006]

My advisor teaches Advanced Improvisation, which I have tomorrow morning. I already emailed him, and will discuss with him after class tomorrow.

Great idea, the professor can also help with your decision on dropping the class or not. Also discuss your situation with your illness and travel delays from Christmas break.

Been there, done that, twice, after the first lecture.

First was a maths course on Linear Algebra. Couldn't understand the first lecture, dropped it, signed up for a course called Biogeography. I learnt so much more about the world from that course.

Second was a course in Botanical Evolution. Couldn't understand the first lecture, dropped it, signed up for a course in Computer Programming. That, in later years, changed the whole direction of my working life.

Caveat. In my case, I lucked out. That won't happen for everyone.

However, we all have areas that are not within our set of mental competencies. This is not a matter for embarrassment or shame. It just is.
And we all have areas that are. This is not a matter for overweening pride. It just is.

Find a course that is interesting, and will expand your horizons.

During my first year of college, the spring semester was particularly challenging for my mental health. Over Christmas break, I experienced grief and anxiety when my Nan passed away shortly after. I struggled with my math class and missed several quizzes and group work due to her funeral, which affected my performance. Despite counseling sessions during lunch breaks, I fell behind and opted for a pass/fail grade to avoid embarrassment. Unfortunately, I didn't pass and had to retake the class in the following school year, but thankfully, I eventually succeeded. A miracle happened.

 

[rm5]

This is a literature class. I took an English class last year, and from the course description, it seemed perfectly fine to take this one. The instructor even said I would be fine. I thought I would be fine. That proved to be untrue, as I felt completely lost and incompetent.

From what I can observe, this class is designed for a very small number of people, who also have deep historical knowledge. Though anyone is able to take it. It strikes me they should include at least two advanced English AND History courses as prerequisites.

 

[goldmac2006]

This is a literature class. I took an English class last year, and from the course description, it seemed perfectly fine to take this one. The instructor even said I would be fine. I thought I would be fine. That proved to be untrue, as I felt completely lost and incompetent.

From what I can observe, this class is designed for a very small number of people, who also have deep historical knowledge. Though anyone is able to take it. It strikes me they should include at least two advanced English AND History courses as prerequisites.

Is this a class on a certain type of literature like cultural or religious studies? I took only my requirement English classes like English 101 and critical thinking and writing ✍️ and in my uni we don’t have prerequisites but have recommendations to take at least the English 101 classes to sign up for these classes like African American literature or world religions.

 

[goldmac2006]

Hey there! If you're planning a trip to the Apple Store in California this week, it might be a good idea to check their website or give them a call first. Some stores, especially those near the fires like  Pasadena, Santa Monica's Third Street Promenade, all locations in downtown Los Angeles, Valencia and Beverly Hills, are closed today and might be closed tomorrow as well. Other locations, further from the fires, have limited hours, though a few are still operating on their regular schedule. I decided to skip my usual Apple Store visit this week because the air is super dry and dusty. Stay safe out there! Follow evacuation orders and county officials if y’all in SoCal are located near the fires.

 

[Conutz]

I will use the term Women from now on, though I cringe at the grown ass woman line.

@mollyc When it's a serious prospect I go all out. Dinners, flowers, meeting families and taking a serious interest in all elements of their life etc. However, these days you have to be exceedingly careful who you put effort into, as dating is not what it once was. There are women out there who will lead you on for a free meal. Sad but true. I only put in what I get out.

Another last century guy here, but relationships should just “flow” – they get more or less serious based on natural feelings and people’s characters. My view is that the artificial online/app approach is providing less-than-ideal options, hence the free riders and so on. As for COD, etc.: mid-twenties latest, pack them in, and get out there and build a life. They give you nothing anyway, and when you’re in your late forties and older, it’s people and relationships you’ll want and need.

 

[Herdfan]

The Palisades wildfire has burned over 2,200 acres and is still not contained. The winds are so strong that they are picking up dust and soot and blowing them around. The smoke and ash are making it difficult to breathe, even though I am in an area away from there, so I'm staying indoors as much as possible.

A good friend from my freshman floor in college has most likely lost his home in this fire. He was at work and his wife at a conference so he had no time to go back and get anything. Including his 2007 Shelby Mustang. He hasn't been allowed back in, but he has talked to a couple of neighbors and is pretty sure it is gone. Even worse is they just completed a huge remodel a year ago.

And the offspring is on alert from the Lidia fire if something causes it to move west. She is in Canyon Country and is torn between coming back home since her work has shut down for the week or stay. She knows if she comes she will remember something she forgot to bring and will worry about it the entire time she is here. They do seem to do some forest management up there and she did get some rain in December. So for now she is staying.

 

[The Clark]

Another last century guy here, but relationships should just “flow” – they get more or less serious based on natural feelings and people’s characters. My view is that the artificial online/app approach is providing less-than-ideal options, hence the free riders and so on. As for COD, etc.: mid-twenties latest, pack them in, and get out there and build a life. They give you nothing anyway, and when you’re in your late forties and older, it’s people and relationships you’ll want and need.

I appreciate the insight!

 

[goldmac2006]

A good friend from my freshman floor in college has most likely lost his home in this fire. He was at work and his wife at a conference so he had no time to go back and get anything. Including his 2007 Shelby Mustang. He hasn't been allowed back in, but he has talked to a couple of neighbors and is pretty sure it is gone. Even worse is they just completed a huge remodel a year ago.

And the offspring is on alert from the Lidia fire if something causes it to move west. She is in Canyon Country and is torn between coming back home since her work has shut down for the week or stay. She knows if she comes she will remember something she forgot to bring and will worry about it the entire time she is here. They do seem to do some forest management up there and she did get some rain in December. So for now she is staying.

Really sad to hear this. Even various movie stars like Paris Hilton which she just sang at the jingle ball concert last month, her expensive house got burned down. A lot of PSPS power shutoffs issued by Edison… keep your iPhones on the ringers! Turn emergency alerts on!!!

 

[Expos of 1969]

Really sad to hear this. Even various movie stars like Paris Hilton which she just sang at the jingle ball concert last month, her expensive house got burned down. A lot of PSPS power shutoffs issued by Edison… keep your iPhones on the ringers! Turn emergency alerts on!!!

"... movie stars like Paris Hilton..."

Thanks for that. I was in real need of a good laugh tonight.

 

[jedimasterkyle]

Wishing for the preverbal band-aid to be ripped off...I'm waiting to hear back from the company I interviewed at last week and this is the part I dislike the most. The waiting. Just tell me yes or no and I can move on with my life.

Finally heard back from the company I interviewed for last night and they offered me the job and I accepted without hesitation.

For 5 LONG years, I've been looking for an exit from my current company and at the start of February, I'll be on a new path and journey. I'll be making more money than I ever have in my life and it will open doors for my wife and I that were previously closed.

I didn't sleep for crap last night because of how excited I am for this opportunity and now the euphoria is wearing off lol. Crashing hard at the moment but after 5 long, exhausting, discouraging and frustrating years...I'm free.

 

[Expos of 1969]

Finally heard back from the company I interviewed for last night and they offered me the job and I accepted without hesitation.

For 5 LONG years, I've been looking for an exit from my current company and at the start of February, I'll be on a new path and journey. I'll be making more money than I ever have in my life and it will open doors for my wife and I that were previously closed.

I didn't sleep for crap last night because of how excited I am for this opportunity and now the euphoria is wearing off lol. Crashing hard at the moment but after 5 long, exhausting, discouraging and frustrating years...I'm free.

Good for you. Do not take pens and post it notes home in your briefcase on day one. That is frowned upon these days.

 

[Herdfan]

It has been confirmed my good friend lost his home in the Palisades Fire.

So thoughts and prayers for him and everyone else who has lost their homes.

It will take a long time for recovery.

 

[Macky-Mac]

It has been confirmed my good friend lost his home in the Palisades Fire.

So thoughts and prayers for him and everyone else who has lost their homes.

It will take a long time for recovery.

with calmer winds today, there have been videos taken from news helicopters flying over Palisades......it's block after block after block after block of burned houses

 

[Apple fanboy]

Finally heard back from the company I interviewed for last night and they offered me the job and I accepted without hesitation.

For 5 LONG years, I've been looking for an exit from my current company and at the start of February, I'll be on a new path and journey. I'll be making more money than I ever have in my life and it will open doors for my wife and I that were previously closed.

I didn't sleep for crap last night because of how excited I am for this opportunity and now the euphoria is wearing off lol. Crashing hard at the moment but after 5 long, exhausting, discouraging and frustrating years...I'm free.

Congratulations. Enjoy your new opportunity. How long is your notice period?

 

[Apple fanboy]

It has been confirmed my good friend lost his home in the Palisades Fire.

So thoughts and prayers for him and everyone else who has lost their homes.

It will take a long time for recovery.

Tough. I hope they are safe and were able to at least get some things out.