Thankful Thursday is a weekly thread where we share and discuss our gratitude. Feeling grateful is a skill we can develop. This is an opportunity for us to practice.

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Happy New Year, everyone! Hope you’re all keeping well. It was my first day back at work yesterday after a 2 week break, I’m a bit scattered as I settle back into the usual routine - I’m sure I’m not alone in this. I’m a bit grumpy and wish I could lay about reading books for 2 more weeks, heh.

Usually I give thanks for more abstract things that are part of my recovery, but during times where I’m taking things day by day, I am grateful for real and tangible stuff that help keep me grounded. I’m grateful for loose leaf tea, sandalwood incense, my cat, fresh bedding, hot showers, my mini electric blanket that I’m constantly wrestling back from this furry terror.

I wouldn’t be thankful for (or even bother with) a lot of these things if I weren’t sober today.

How are you all faring - what’s on your thankful list this week?

Take care!

Alex

ALL CLOTHING MEN'S! Prices include shipping & G+S.

OR Helium 2 jacket size Large: Used 3-4x. Nothing wrong with it; I just decided to switch to Arc’teryx. 6.3oz, $60

Neo-Air Uberlite size Large, old valve: Used ~10x, no issues with deflation. Always used on top of a Z-lite. 11.15oz, $75

Hammock Gear Econ Burrow 20 degree quilt, R/W: Used ~10x. Includes storage stack and pad straps. 26.35oz, $100

Altra Lone Peaks 4 size 9.5: (ORANGE) Used ~10x, $25

Altra Lone Peaks 4 size 9.5: (BLACK/RED) New, never worn. $50

Altra Lone Peak 4 Mid RSM size 9.5: (BLACK/WHITE) Used twice, $40

MISC (BUY SOMETHING ELSE AND I’LL GIVE YOU ONE OF THESE FOR FREE):

Katadyn BeFree collapsible bottle + filter: Used once. Works fine, just not my jam. $SOLD

Toaks 500ml pot w/lid: $SOLD

Suunto M-3G Global compass: Unused, $25

Darn Tough socks, size M: Washed, worn once or twice. $0

Photos: https://imgur.com/a/Vg8XxMJ

Venti: "As we all know, poetry and language flow like the wind... Venti captures this spirit in his ballads. Flora and fauna he sings seem to have a life of their own, and transport us to the moon and the stars. This self-proclaimed "Best Bard of the Mortal World" gets his strength, his unwithering inspiration, from the wind. But what Venti seeks in life, is not eternal fame for his ballads. Rather he'd by happy with a cup of wine and a lyre to sing the marvelous stories of the world. Yes, that would make Venti the Bard very content indeed."

Diluc: "Diluc's explosive, ruthless fighting style and his aloof manner are all admirable traits, but if the disaster from five centuries ago were to happen again, if he were to face the same evil that I once did , would he still hold fast to his resolve? This, too, makes me most curious indeed."

Klee: " When the people of Mondstadt talk about their home, they proudly call it the city of wind, dandelions and freedom. Perhaps it was Mondstadt's atmosphere of freedom that led the famous adventurer, Alice, to entrust her daughter Klee to the care of the Knights of Favonius. With this freedom, Klee has had a happy and unrestrained childhood. But all baby birds must leave the nest some day. Hopefully our little Spark Knight, will remain just as happy-go-lucky when that day comes, and keep smiling all the way."

Jean: "Though Jean may lack experience, Mondstadt has only prospered since she assumed Varka's great responsibilities. Even I, who has seen countless people, must respect her desire to always defend Mondstadt. But unlike most who bear great burdens, this young knight has remained as tenacious as ever. How was her will molded, and what sustains her edge such that it never wears down? If fate wills it, I will find the answer to these questions..."

Qiqi: "As a zombie, Qiqi has escaped the grip of both time and death. How Qiqi entered this state of existence, I do not know. But I doubt it was of her own volition. Are the heavenly principles toying with her? Or is it fate seeking to torture her? Is an ordinary life of simple pleasures, really a thing so fragile?"

Mona: "Mona's hydromancy is indeed unique. Noone can deny her intelligence and talent. Within Mondstadt, there are few who possess the ability and a desire to seek truth equal to hers. But beware, O young seeker, you must sacrifice your all to unravel the world's secrets. Could the astrologist Mona truly bear such a burden?"

Keqing: "Human history is to b

Monday Miscellany

Use this thread to post about anything related to M/M romance that doesn't warrant its own post, including:

• Thoughts on what you're currently reading
• Books you're looking forward to
• Books that aren't M/M romance that you think the community might be interested in
• Television, movies, and other media (including fanfic and fanart)
• Questions for the community
• Romance-related articles, blog posts, and reviews
• Subreddit questions, concerns, or ideas

Discussing a book? Please include content warnings and mark spoilers.

Other Stuff

• You can find the complete schedule of all weekly and monthly features at this link.
• Join us on the MM Romance Readers Discord. This is a private community for MM romance readers affiliated with, but not sponsored by, this subreddit. The Discord is 18+ and NSFW. Please contact u/madigan459 if you have any questions about the Discord.

So the japanese has 2 versions of Diluc's collected miscellany (Dainsleif's and Kaeya's). Does anyone know the translation of what Kaeya said at the end of the video? Like in the part where Dain narrated the "But if the disaster from 5 centuries ago would have happened again. if he were to face the same evil that I once did, will he still hold fast to his resolve?" Are Kaeya's and Dain's words different? Also does the chinese have 2 versions of this too?

After watching this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aFiMbCkuyno

I must agree that the end of Thoma's Collected Miscellany has nothing to do with Thoma.

Indeed the second half seems to be talking about Signora. After all I don't think we know of any other character aside of Signora who is defending something and is fueled by hatred. Also as the author of the video mentions, Defender's will is the name of Rostam's artifact set.

However the creator of the video didn't upload the whole quote. Which goes like this:
"Over centuties of futility I have at least learned one thing: So long as you have determination, you can always keep going. A defender's will is a precious thing, and hatred can serve to nourish it*."*

If Dainsleif is indeed talking about Signora in the last part of the quote making references to Rostam's set (and how precious it is to Signora) and her hatred. What he is saying in the first half is that Signora's determination is something that not even death can stop. For as long as she has determination, she can always keep going.

Usually Dainsleif’s ending notes tie in the featured character to the Gods, Celestia, and Dainsleif himself — with an ominous tone to tie it all together

(Ex: About Sara — Sometimes, I cannot decide whether it’s a greater tragedy to have lost all one’s own ambition or to adopt the wishes of a god as one’s own)

You can see what that he’s referring to the Vision Hunt Decree & Sara’s exceedingly devoted character as a servant of the Shogun.

But his comments for Thoma, do not seem to fit Thoma’s personality? I do not really see the link.

(LINE: if one who has turned their back on the Gods… chose to follow them once more, would favorable treatment be extended to them? A defender’s will is a precious thing, and hatred can serve to nourish it.)

From what I know, Thoma hasn’t turned his back on ANYONE even the Gods. Part of his charm is his reliability and kindness. So, why is that brought up? Also, Thoma’s defender’s will is powered by his desire to protect his friends. Why is hatred even mentioned?

So before we start, here's the video in case you haven't watched it yet. The lines covered in this post can be heard starting at 4:46

>Occasionally, a thought crosses my mind: "If one who has turned their back on the gods ever chose to follow them once more. Would any such favorable treatment be extended to them?" Regrettably, no opportunity of this nature exists, nor would I have the desire to take it.

As usual, Dainsleif expresses his standpoint of not siding with the gods, even if they were to offer mercy and forgiveness to his act of going against them. What's interesting is Dain, of all people, question whether those who share his ideals, can be allowed to be taken in by the gods once more. The question seems to be fitting for a character that we know, Pierro, the 1st Harbinger. From the Mocking Mask description, we've been speculated his origin to be Khaenriah, the place of those who's turned against gods. Even at the moment, Pierro is actively working against the absusb Principles, but he himself, chose to do so under the Cryo Archon, which contradicts Dains' claim that such things don't exist. I'd love to see how this will turn out in the future. Moving on, we have

>A defender's will is a precious thing, and hatred can serve to nourish it.

This align with Ashen Heart description, where it mentions that Pierro thought that deeper hate and obsession could save Signora and make her his ally. Coincidentally, Signora's lover, Rostam, got his story told by an artifact set name "Defender's will"

I'm so stoked, I finally got approved for a new apartment, and I'm on the hunt for some kitchen gadgets and would rather thrift and get cash in hands of those who need it before hitting up Target! Here are some things I am looking for:

Keep in mind I'm moving to a tiny cheap efficiency so I'm not looking to lowball anyone on some complete KitchenAid collection or anything. I'm just looking for a few doodads.
I will cross things off as they are covered.

Kitchen:

• Blender (preferably a combo unit that can both process food and blend)
• Bread maker
• 2-burner hot plate
• Immersion blender
• Kitchen knife set
• Basic dinnerware service for 4 (I generally prefer plain white but hey plates are plates)
• Hand mixer

Other:

• A collapsible shopping cart
• Small space heater
• Fan (either box fan or oscillating)
• Board games! Scrabble, jenga, chess, checkers, classics like that.

I also don't have a car; if it makes more sense for you to come to me I am willing to offer a delivery/gas fee as well.

Thank you!

I will be out of town and unavailable from 10/17 until 10/20, I apologize for any delayed responses.

Leaving the 'detail' shots in the tables with the old timestamps but here are some current timestamp 'overview' pictures 1 2 3.

Please let me know if you have any questions about items/condition/etc or if the pricing on anything is far off, certainly willing to discount for buying multiple items (particularly any of the small stuff). Local is 17202.

Primarily looking for cash and to make space but if someone actually wants to trade a 5800x, 3080, black NH-D15 or some black NF-A14s then be my guest lol.

 

Apple

 

Miscellany

 

PC Components

5.25 Bay

Collected Miscellany: "Kaeya: Ice-cold Justice"

For years now, the City of Mondstadt had prospered thanks to the valiant efforts of the Knights of Favonius who had become a thriving light that protected Mondstadt's wind. However, much like how every light has its own shadow, the Knights of Favonius is no exception. That very shadow is the ever-so-mischievous Cavalry Captain, Kaeya.

"What a pleasant breeze. I wonder how long it'll last?"

Though on the surface Kaeya seemed to be a rather easygoing person, becoming a Cavalry Captain was no fluke. Kaeya possesses several combat abilities that allows him to be utilised either as your main damage dealer or as a support, making him flexible in various situations.

Expedition Talent: Hidden Strength

With a keen eye, Kaeya had constantly observed the people around him and learned how to exploit their natural capabilities efficiently. While he is in the party, Kaeya will offer a 20% decrease in stamina consumption while sprinting.

Normal Attack: Ceremonial Bladework

Kaeya can perform up to 5 consecutive attacks, dealing physical damage to enemies. Holding the attack button consumes a set amount of stamina and unleashes an elegant and fast blade work only unseen by the naked eye.

Elemental Skill: Frostgnaw

"Dodge this!"

Using his Elemental Skill, Kaeya unleashes a blast consisting of several frigid shards of ice, dealing Cryo damage to enemies.

Passive Talent: Cold-blooded Strike

Though the cold may be harsh, some find its nature soothing. After unlocking the talent, 'Cold-blooded Strike', when Frostgnaw hits an enemy, Kaeya recovers a set percentage of his HP. This healing scales off of his ATK.

Passive Talent: Glacial Heart

It's in a captain's nature to lend support, as cold as it may be. After unlocking the talent 'Glacial Heart', by freezing opponents with his Elemental Skill, additional elemental particles will be generated. This ability may only generate up to 2 particles per use of Frostgnaw.

Elemental Burst: Glacial Waltz

"This moment will be frozen in time!"

Unleashing his Elemental Burst, Kaeya generates three Icicles that floats around him, dealing Cryo damage to enemies that carelessly approach. This ability stays active even after Kaeya leaves the field, allowing you to constantly activate Elemental Reactions with your party members.

At the start of battle, apply hydro to enemies. Then, switch into Kaeya and freeze them with your Elemental Skill to gain enough energy to unleash

Monday Miscellany

Use this thread to post about anything related to M/M romance that doesn't warrant its own post, including:

• Thoughts on what you're currently reading
• Books you're looking forward to
• Books that aren't M/M romance that you think the community might be interested in
• Television, movies, and other media (including fanfic and fanart)
• Questions for the community
• Romance-related articles, blog posts, and reviews
• Subreddit questions, concerns, or ideas

Discussing a book? Please include content warnings and mark spoilers.

Other Stuff

• You can find the complete schedule of all weekly and monthly features at this link.
• Join us on the MM Romance Readers Discord. This is a private community for MM romance readers affiliated with, but not sponsored by, this subreddit. The Discord is 18+ and NSFW. Please contact u/madigan459 if you have any questions about the Discord.

Monday Miscellany

Use this thread to post about anything related to M/M romance that doesn't warrant its own post, including:

• Thoughts on what you're currently reading
• Books you're looking forward to
• Books that aren't M/M romance that you think the community might be interested in
• Television, movies, and other media (including fanfic and fanart)
• Questions for the community
• Romance-related articles, blog posts, and reviews
• Subreddit questions, concerns, or ideas

Discussing a book? Please include content warnings and mark spoilers.

Other Stuff

• You can find the complete schedule of all weekly and monthly features at this link.
• Join us on the MM Romance Readers Discord. This is a private community for MM romance readers affiliated with, but not sponsored by, this subreddit. The Discord is 18+ and NSFW. Please contact u/madigan459 if you have any questions about the Discord.

Monday Miscellany

Use this thread to post about anything related to M/M romance that doesn't warrant its own post, including:

• Thoughts on what you're currently reading
• Books you're looking forward to
• Books that aren't M/M romance that you think the community might be interested in
• Television, movies, and other media (including fanfic and fanart)
• Questions for the community
• Romance-related articles, blog posts, and reviews
• Subreddit questions, concerns, or ideas

Discussing a book? Please include content warnings and mark spoilers.

Other Stuff

• You can find the complete schedule of all weekly and monthly features at this link.
• Join us on the MM Romance Readers Discord. This is a private community for MM romance readers affiliated with, but not sponsored by, this subreddit. The Discord is 18+ and NSFW. Please contact u/madigan459 if you have any questions about the Discord.

Monday Miscellany

Use this thread to post about anything related to M/M romance that doesn't warrant its own post, including:

• Thoughts on what you're currently reading
• Books you're looking forward to
• Books that aren't M/M romance that you think the community might be interested in
• Television, movies, and other media (including fanfic and fanart)
• Questions for the community
• Romance-related articles, blog posts, and reviews
• Subreddit questions, concerns, or ideas

Discussing a book? Please include content warnings and mark spoilers.

Other Stuff

• You can find the complete schedule of all weekly and monthly features at this link.
• Join us on the MM Romance Readers Discord. This is a private community for MM romance readers affiliated with, but not sponsored by, this subreddit. The Discord is 18+ and NSFW. Please contact u/madigan459 if you have any questions about the Discord.

Here is the video link

>As a zombie, Qiqi has escaped the grip of both time and death. How Qiqi entered this state of existence, I do not know. But I doubt it was of her own volition.

>Are the Heavenly principles toying with her? Or fate seeking to torture her

>Is an ordinary life of simple pleasures really a thing so fragile?

Got a few successful sales off of my first post, should have some more confirmed trades soon. Additionally I have some old Heat and eBay feedback if anyone cares to see it. Please let me know if you have any questions about items/condition/etc or if the pricing on anything is far off. Timestamps are from 9/27 - hopefully that's close enough to be kosher still (it's a lot of pictures to re-take lol) and I can always provide newer on request if need be. If you want to bundle items (especially the little things) I'll certainly discount for shipping at the very least. Local is 17202. Also all hard drives have been formatted + zero'd or secure erased.

Mostly just interested in Paypal or cash as I'm looking to reclaim space. Though if you really want to give up some 140mm Noctua fans, an NH-D15, 5800X or 3080 for this treasure trove of goodies I won't turn you down lol.