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Blade’s Best Team-Ups: From Spider-Man to Deadpool and More

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Marvel has never been shy about introducing some other-worldly and supernatural aspects to comic books. Falling into the latter category would be vampires, and it seems that the story surrounding vampires is in its own subcategory of the Marvel comics and completely spearheaded by Eric Brooks, a.k.a. Blade.

Blade has been the title character for three movies, all of which came before the Marvel Cinematic Universe was launched (and starring Wesley Snipes). Despite being considered a bit of an off-shoot character that does his own thing, Blade has still been involved with many of the other Marvel superheroes. Let’s take a look at five of his best team-ups throughout comic book history, showing just how important Blade is to the Marvel universe.

X-Men

There have been some superhero team-ups that have gone incredibly well over the years like Superman and Batman, Daredevil and Spider-Man, or Captain America and the Winter Soldier, but then there have been some that have gone terribly wrong. One of those that falls in the latter category is the time that Blade teamed up with the X-Men in one of the darkest storylines in Marvel Comics history.

Blade appeared in the 2010 series “Curse of the Mutants” which saw Blade assist the X-Men after they were attacked by Dracula’s son Xarus. While things were going smoothly between the two sides as they fought together, things came to a head when Jubilee became infected, turning her into a vampire. The X-Men demanded that she stayed alive, but as a vampire hunter, Blade didn’t feel that way. The two went their separate ways on bad terms, but it was a fun team-up overall.

Spider-Man

Spider-Man has fought some pretty off-the-wall villains throughout his history, and that includes fighting off vampires. The web-slinger is used to battling people with robotic limbs or wings, and even a lizard-human hybrid, but he needed some assistance when it came to dueling with vampires. That’s where Blade comes in, and the two have teamed up on multiple occasions throughout comics and animated shows.

Perhaps the best example of Blade and Spider-Man working together came in the 1998 series “Marvel Team-Up Starring: Spider-Man and Blade”. The two didn’t quite get along at first and had different ways of operating as heroes, but when Henry Sage threatened them, the two decided to work together. Eventually, the two find a cure called the Day-Walker formula that could help Blade heal vampires instead of killing them.

Deadpool

Deadpool, the off-the-cuff smartmouth antihero, has teamed up with just about everyone in Marvel Comics at this point. While he hasn’t had extended interactions with Blade, the two have had a couple of team-ups. The previously mentioned “Curse of the Mutants” from the X-Men series also featured Deadpool, as well as the series “Dracula’s Gauntlet”. As he did with Spider-Man, Blade got off on the wrong foot with Deadpool.

Blade’s eventual wife, Shiklah, was originally a target for Blade. Dracula wanted Shiklah to help build his army, and Deadpool fought Blade to protect her. Thankfully, the three were able to work out their differences and form an alliance against Dracula to take him down, with Deadpool (Wade Wilson) even getting an invite to the wedding. 

Black Panther

Prior to the Marvel Cinematic Universe being launched, which helped to make Black Panther into a household name, Blade was actually the bigger name. He had been featured in multiple movies of his own before the likes of Iron Man or Thor, and in 2006, he teamed up with Black Panther (T’Challa) himself. The team-up was part of the Black Panther series which lasted for two issues early in the year.

The short storyline was very much a product of its time as it took place in New Orleans, Louisiana shortly after the events of Hurricane Katrina. Vampires have taken over the ravaged city, and it’s up to Black Panther and Blade to lead the charge against the attack. They aren’t alone in their efforts, either. Other heroes like Monica Rambeau and Luke Cage join them in the Bayou.

S.H.I.E.L.D.

“Civil War” was one of the biggest storylines in Marvel comic history, and just about every major character showed up at some point. Blade was thrust into the Civil War when he was tasked with capturing Wolverine but found himself after Morbius instead. However, it was a setup, and Blade was captured by S.H.I.E.L.D. but not because they wanted him imprisoned. Instead, they needed his help, and offer to remove any charges against him.

Blade is then given the task to protect Wolverine at any cost, which ends up being one of the biggest parts of the storyline. Blade is successful in keeping Wolverine alive, ending the conflict which would lead to Wolverine becoming a member of the Avengers. The New Avengers, which debuted in 2005, consisted of Wolverine, Spider-Man, Carol Danvers, Luke Cage, and The Thing.

The Science of Soap Making: How to Craft Custom Bars at Home

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Soap has been used since the Ancient Middle East times and there have been different ways in which it’s been made over the years. It wasn’t until around the 15th century that soap became a common household item thanks to widespread manufacturing, and now it’s a massive industry that creates around $38 billion per year.

There are plenty of soaps available, too, with some being more “luxurious” and costing more than $10 per bar while others are still cheap at around $1. Then, there are people who prefer to make their own soap. It might sound a little intimidating to make your own, but it’s actually easier than you think. If you’ve been wondering how to craft your own custom bars at home, here is all you need to know about the science of soap making through the several different methods available.

For starters, you’ll need some common equipment for most methods of soap making. This includes a digital scale, spoons/spatulas, molds, containers (stainless steel is preferred), and a thermometer.

Cold Process

Cold process soap making is one of the most popular methods, and it’s one that requires lye. You should know that when handling lye, you need a lot of safety equipment so that you don’t damage your skin and eyes. With that said, make sure that you’re handling lye with gloves while wearing long sleeves and goggles. From there, you’ll want to gather your oils which include shea butter and olive oil.

Once you have the lye and water weighed out and ready to go, slowly pour the lye into the water. Try not to breathe in too deeply as there will be a lot of fumes. Stir the mixture until the lye has dissolved. Let the mixture cool, which can take around 60 minutes. During the cooling process, melt your oils until they reach 100 degrees.

The lye mixture can then be added to the oils, then stirred until your soap has a thick batter-like consistency. By this point, you should have a mold prepared to pour into. After pouring, cover the mold with both paper and a towel, allowing it to cool for 48 hours. Once your soap is cut into bars, you’ll still need to let it sit in the open air for about a month before it’s ready to use.

Hot Process

There really isn’t too much of a difference between the cold process. The main difference is that instead of melting your oils in a pan, you do so in a Crockpot or other slow cooker. This creates a better overall mixture, and the process of adding the lye and stirring the mixture can take up to two hours. The fragrances are added after the soap has gelled, and it doesn’t take several weeks for the soap to be ready to use.

Instead, you can end up using hot process soap on the same day in the right situation. Once the soap is hardened, it’s ready to use, but you might still want to wait. Giving the soap four to seven days of sitting out allows it to harden more and will create a longer-lasting bar. Hot process is actually the preferred method for those that make their own soap, especially because the scents tend to last longer, too.

Melt and Pour

If you want to switch things up a bit, the melt-and-pour method is a great way to save a lot of time and space. First, you’ll want to measure the amount of fragrance oil that you’ll be using in a small glass (and only glass) container. Then, take out your soap base (which is usually available in about two-pound blocks) and cut them into small cubes of the same size.

Add the cubes into a pitcher until you hit 16 ounces, while your fragrance should be a half-ounce. Instead of a slow cooker or pot to melt everything, you just need to put the soap base in the microwave for one minute at first. Stir the mixture and continue to heat for 20 seconds at a time until the soap base is completely melted.

Next, you’ll want to add a few drops of dye if you want to change the color of the soap, stirring it in and heating it for 10 seconds at a time if needed. Then, add your fragrance and continue to stir well. Pour your soap mixture into the molds then spray with rubbing alcohol to allow the soap to harden faster. After about 24 hours, your soap will be hardened and should be ready for use, though you may want to place the soap into the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes at the end for extra hardening.

Rebatched

The final soap making method we’ll look at is rebatching, which takes any failed previous attempts and corrects them. Cut down the soap that you previously made and place it into a slow cooker. Once melted, continue to stir and add in fragrance oil and add a small amount of dye (or even cocoa powder) for color.

Then, place the soap into a mold and allow it to cool for around 24 hours. Like melt and pour, adding it to the fridge at the end speeds up the process. It’s a simple way to fix any previous mistakes.

The Future of Quantum Computing: Opportunities and Challenges

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Quantum computing has emerged as a revolutionary technology that promises to reshape the world of computing and unlock immense computational power. Unlike classical computers that use bits to represent information as either a 0 or a 1, quantum computers utilize quantum bits or qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously, thanks to the principles of superposition and entanglement. As quantum computing continues to advance rapidly, it presents a multitude of opportunities and challenges that will shape the future of technology.

Opportunities:

Advanced Cryptography

Quantum computing has the potential to disrupt modern cryptography algorithms, which are currently based on the difficulty of factoring large numbers. With the computational power of quantum computers, breaking these cryptographic codes becomes significantly easier. However, this challenge also presents an opportunity to develop new encryption methods that are resistant to quantum attacks. Quantum-resistant cryptography is an area of active research, and the development of such algorithms will ensure the security of digital communication in the post-quantum era.

Optimization and Simulation

Quantum computing excels in solving optimization problems and simulating complex systems. Many real-world problems, such as optimizing supply chains, financial portfolio management, and drug discovery, involve numerous variables and constraints. Quantum algorithms, such as the quantum approximate optimization algorithm (QAOA) and the variational quantum eigensolver (VQE), hold the potential to outperform classical algorithms and provide more efficient and accurate solutions. Moreover, quantum simulation can enable researchers to study quantum systems that are impractical to simulate on classical computers, revolutionizing fields such as materials science and chemistry.

Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence

Quantum computing can enhance machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques by accelerating computations and enabling more advanced algorithms. Quantum machine learning algorithms have the potential to extract patterns and insights from large datasets, enabling breakthroughs in areas like pattern recognition, natural language processing, and data analysis. Moreover, quantum computers can improve training and optimization processes, leading to more efficient and accurate AI models.

Challenges

Quantum Hardware

Building stable and reliable quantum computers is a significant challenge. Quantum systems are extremely sensitive to environmental disturbances, and maintaining the delicate quantum states required for computation, known as quantum coherence, is challenging. Researchers are actively working on improving qubit stability, reducing errors, and developing error correction techniques. Advancements in quantum hardware, such as the development of topological qubits and error-correcting codes, are crucial for scaling up quantum computers to a practical and usable level.

Scalability

While quantum computers have demonstrated impressive capabilities for solving specific problems, scaling up the number of qubits and maintaining coherence becomes increasingly difficult. Quantum systems are prone to noise, decoherence, and errors, limiting the computational power and accuracy of quantum algorithms. Overcoming these scalability challenges is vital for achieving the full potential of quantum computing. Various approaches, such as different qubit technologies (superconducting, trapped ions, topological qubits) and error correction methods, are being explored to address these issues.

Algorithm Development

The field of quantum algorithms is still in its early stages, and developing efficient and practical algorithms for quantum computers remains a significant challenge. Translating existing classical algorithms to quantum equivalents or designing entirely new quantum algorithms requires a deep understanding of both quantum mechanics and computational complexity. Researchers and computer scientists need to collaborate closely to develop and optimize quantum algorithms that can outperform classical algorithms and leverage the unique properties of quantum computing.

Access and Education

Quantum computing is a highly specialized field that requires expertise in quantum physics, computer science, and mathematics. Access to quantum computing resources and specialized training is currently limited to a few research institutions and organizations. Democratizing access to quantum computing and providing educational opportunities for students and researchers will be crucial for fostering innovation and driving progress in the field.

10 DIY Projects to Transform Your Kitchen

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Undergoing a DIY project can be a lot of fun, and there are certain parts of the house where we tend to focus more of our creative energy. Bedrooms and living rooms get most of the love, but there are a lot of great ways you can transform your kitchen through the power of DIY. From the sink to how you display your spices and seasonings, we have plenty of projects that you can do in your home without breaking the bank. Here are 10 project ideas to get you started.

Custom Backsplash

In between your sink (or countertop) and the wall is the splashback, which prevents moisture from getting into your walls. While most backsplashes are pretty bland and worry more about function over fashion, don’t be afraid to jazz things up a bit. Even something as simple as a vinyl adhesive (including one that looks like bricks) can really liven up the kitchen as soon as you walk in. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, you can paint the backsplash or create your own using glass or wood.

Cabinets Done Cheap

Among the first projects for any kitchen renovation is replacing the cabinets. However, that can be expensive and might require the assistance of a professional to ensure they’re even and stay in place. Instead, try to focus on adjusting the ones that you have. One project that you can do is to sand down the cabinets and add a stain to change things up. Also, you can paint your cabinets with a color that really pops.

Counter Measures

We don’t really think about it at first, but countertops can really make or break the entire aesthetic of your kitchen. It might not be the easiest project since you don’t want to replace them yourself, but there are plenty of epoxies that can easily be applied for a complete transformation.

Light It Up

Lighting can really set the mood for any room, and the kitchen is no exception. Feel free to experiment with the lighting depending on how you want to theme your kitchen. If you want a more rustic look, you can place a sifter or mason jar around the bulbs, while large globe pendants can make things feel more luxurious.

Visiting the Island

Not everybody has an island in their kitchen, but if you’re one of the lucky ones who do, then feel free to mix things up a bit. There are a lot of ways you can transform your kitchen with the island from adding new chairs that make it look like you’re opening a rustic burger restaurant to repainting it completely. Some have even upcycled old pieces of furniture (like doors or office desks, transforming them into beautiful islands.

Stock the Shelves

It can be difficult to come up with ways to create more space in the kitchen (and we’ll talk more about that later, too), and shelving can help tremendously. Whether you want to buy some small shelves or create your own, they can help to clear up some cabinet space in a snap. Most people who add shelves to their kitchen tend to place their spices and cookbooks on them so that they’re easily accessible.

Open the Window

Windows can be a bit of an afterthought for kitchen decoration, and most of us opt for bland curtains that can sort of get in the way. To really spruce things up in the kitchen, though, try some treatments like shades that let a little bit of light in (woven shades), or even ditch the curtains altogether and add a window film that can help eliminate some of the glare from the sun while also helping the kitchen to feel wide open.

Chalk Talk

Have you ever wanted your kitchen to feel a bit like a restaurant? A lot of smaller restaurants will have a chalkboard waiting right outside of the entrance with the day’s specials while others will have an entire chalk wall behind the bar. If you want to go the latter route, it’s easier than you think! Apply a coat of paint that allows you to write on it with chalk, and you can let the family know what’s for dinner every day!

Hanging Around

Storage is everything when it comes to a kitchen, and a lot of us, unfortunately, don’t have enough space, especially for all of the pots and pans. With that said, you might want to look into creating racks where you can hang your pots and pans. Hanging them above the island is a great way to use up some empty space and clear out a lot of room in your cupboards and drawers while looking like a professional kitchen.

Know New Knobs

Sometimes the biggest changes can be among the smallest. That even includes the knobs that are used on your cabinets and drawers. If you’re satisfied with the overall look of your kitchen but want to make a minor adjustment, then look no further than the knobs. Of course, there are some that are available at the store, but you can also make your own. Some have even taken to converting some of their children’s small art projects into knobs so that they have an entirely new life.

5 Fun Ways to Make Random Decisions

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An overwhelming amount of people use a calculated thought process for just about everything in their lives, from when and where they’re going to eat to what shirt they’re going to wear. In recent years, though, there has been a growing trend of people who have decided to let fate decide and make random decisions based on nothing else but chance.

Studies have shown that those who are in their mid-20s are the most likely to make random decisions, while those who skew toward the very young and very old are also likely to make off-the-cuff decisions based on chance. No matter what your age, though, there are still some inconsequential things throughout the day that can be left entirely up to random decisions. If you want to spice things up, here are five fun ways to make random decisions in your life.

Pick Ideas Out of a Jar

This idea is especially fun for children. All you need to do is write down fun and interesting ideas, or maybe even new experiences for them to try, on small pieces of paper, fold the pieces of paper to hide the ideas and throw them all into a jar. 

Have your kids shake the container around and jumble all of the ideas in the jar. Have them pull out a piece of paper with the mystery idea on it and let the random fun commence. If you want to get extra fun with it, you can decorate your own “jar of choice” so that it can be used over and over again whenever a fun random decision pops up again.

Spin a Mystery Wheel

Spinning a mystery wheel is a fun idea that will turn to make random decisions into an exciting game. You can buy, or create your own special mystery wheel with unique and fun ideas strewn throughout the multiple slots. You could put a list of different ingredients to use in a dish and spin the wheel to see what kind of creative meal to make. 

You could put a bunch of fun places to go and spin the wheel to see what wonderful shenanigans you get into. The possibilities are endless. It’s an exciting way to add controlled spontaneity to your life when you need a little something different.  

Have a Stranger Choose Your Meal

I’m sure you’ve seen this interesting challenge all over the Internet before, but there’s a reason for that. It’s just downright fun and random as can be. It’s a simple concept. All you have to do is go through the drive-thru at any fast food restaurant and let them know you want to order whatever it is the person in front of you ordered. 

You make it something you love, or you may be disappointed, but it’s all in good fun. Variety is the spice of life, too, so it may end up being something that you’ve never tried before and end up loving. If it’s something you know that you aren’t going to like, you can always go back through the drive-thru even if it costs a few extra bucks.

Let Others Choose Your Outfit

This is a delightfully funky idea that could end up being awesome, or odd. Either way, it’ll turn out interesting. There are a couple of ways you could go about making this fun idea come to life. You could post some pictures of your outfit choices online for your friends to choose from. 

Or maybe ask the employees, or other shoppers in a clothing store to pick out some uniquely styled outfits for you to take home. It doesn’t have to be an eccentric outfit or something that stands out too much. Stepping outside of your comfort zone is fun, but do it at your own pace. 

Let Your Hairdresser Choose Your Hair Color and Style

Beware, this form of random decision-making might not be for you if you have a heavy attachment to your hair, or work at an establishment that frowns upon individuality. If you’re the kind of person who’s up for anything, then this is definitely right up your alley. 

It could be as simple as getting a slightly different cut and dye than your norm, or maybe a drastically unique cut and dye that really stands out. No matter how big, or small the change is, it’s a fun way to shake things up a bit. Be sure to inform your hairdresser of any firm limits if you have any. 

Developing Natural Cleaning Solutions for Healthier Indoor Air

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In our quest for clean and fresh living spaces, we often turn to a wide range of commercial cleaning products that promise sparkling surfaces and a pristine environment. However, what many fail to realize is that these conventional cleaners often contain harsh chemicals that can contribute to indoor air pollution, compromising our health and well-being. Fortunately, there is a growing awareness of the need for natural cleaning solutions that not only keep our homes spotless but also promote healthier indoor air quality.

Indoor air pollution poses significant risks, contributing to respiratory issues, allergies, and other health concerns. Traditional cleaning products often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful chemicals that can linger in the air long after their use. By transitioning to natural cleaning solutions, we can minimize these risks and create a safer environment for ourselves and our loved ones. Here are some tips for developing those solutions for your home.

Natural Air Freshener 

Of course, we all want our home to smell nice and inviting, but using aerosol air fresheners may not be the best way to spread those enticing scents. Aerosol air fresheners typically contain ethanol, acetone, and acetate – all of which have been linked to causing headaches, nausea, irritation, and breathing problems. Your best bet is to use more natural products to spruce up your home’s scent. You can do so by using herbal potpourri, boiling fruit peels in water and warm spices, or using an aromatherapy device containing your favorite essential oils. 

Dust 

Dust is the bane of every allergy sufferer’s existence. Not only is it an eyesore, but it can also wreak havoc on those whose health problems make them more vulnerable and susceptible to issues caused by dust particles. Typically, we simply dust an area off with a duster or a rag. However, that can leave millions of unhealthy dust particles floating around in the air around us, becoming even more of a nuisance than before. 

There are better ways to go about collecting and cleaning off dust. Try using a microfiber cloth combined with a natural cleaning solution made up of distilled vinegar and olive oil. The microfiber cloth holds on to dust far better than a standard cloth, or duster. That way you achieve the clean surface you crave, without brushing the dust into the air. Adding an air purifier to your environment will help to alleviate symptoms and filter any excess dust left in the air as well. 

Natural Products 

Likely the most environmentally damaging cleaning products out there are the abrasive, chemical-filled cleaners. Sure, they’re necessary for some really tough, or even hazardous cleaning jobs. If you can replace the amount of usage of those chemical products and replace them with more natural solutions, you’ll be doing yourself and the world around you a favor. 

You can purchase natural solutions at your local store, or even make your own at home with products already found in your home. Never mix ingredients together, especially chemicals, without knowing if it’s safe. 

Clean During the Day  

When you clean, there’s always going to be some dust and other particles floating around after the fact. Although, using an air purifier and proper precautions when cleaning will help. Another tip is to clean during the day. When you clean at night, the particles remain in the while you sleep and can disturb your quality of sleep. 

When you clean during the day, there’s plenty of time to air out the house and allow the particles to dissipate. Oftentimes during the day is when most of us are out of the home anyways, making it the perfect time to literally let the dust settle.  

Cooking Pollution 

Believe it or not, cooking our meals can pollute our homes. Depending on the type of stove you have, the use of exhaust fans, and what you’re cooking, depends on how much pollution is present. Do your best to prevent this by allowing proper ventilation in the kitchen, covering pots and pans with their lids while cooking, and investing in an induction stove over a gas-powered one. 

Gardening with Kids: Fun and Educational Activities for Children

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In an era dominated by screens and virtual experiences, there is a growing need to foster a deeper connection between children and the natural world. Gardening provides an ideal platform for children to engage with nature, learn about plants and ecosystems, and develop a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the environment. Beyond its educational value, gardening also offers a multitude of fun and hands-on activities that can captivate the imaginations of young minds.

Gardening with children not only teaches them about the life cycle of plants but also instills important values such as patience, responsibility, and environmental stewardship. It encourages them to get their hands dirty, fostering a sensory experience that stimulates their senses and strengthens their connection with the natural world. Here are some of the fun and educational gardening activities that you can do with your kids.

Egg Carton Seedling Planter 

Not only is this a fun way to start the growing process, it’s also a productive way to teach your child the art of repurposing and recycling. Egg cartons are the perfect vessel to grow seedlings before they’re ready for the big time and become a part of your garden. There’s tons of space to plant seeds, they’re biodegradable, and they’re readily available in most households.(Pro tip, you can add discarded egg shells to your homemade fertilizer mix.)Encourage your child to decorate the outside of the egg carton and make it theirs to enhance the experience. They’ll love every minute of it. 

Making Fertilizer 

Making homemade fertilizer isn’t only super beneficial for your plants, it’s a fun and messy way to teach your child to properly care for a garden. Making fertilizer is relatively easy. You and your child will take a large container and use it to slowly gather kitchen scraps, small twigs, grass clippings, and other organic matter. By the time you’ve collected enough, your fertilizer will likely already have begun decomposing and turning into delicious plant food. 

Making fertilizer is a process you can explain to your child and they will be intrigued by it. Then comes the extra fun step – time to get messy. You and your child can make good use of the fertilizer once it’s ready for the garden. Take the fertilizer and mix it in with the soil of your choice, take your time and be thorough to ensure it’s evenly incorporated. Then, you can plant your beauties in the lovely mixture together with your child and watch as the plants thrive over time.

Decorating 

A simple, yet always fun garden activity to do with your child is to let them decorate and personalize different tools and signs in the garden. Whether it be stakes, signs to identify plants, planters, or the tools used throughout the garden, it’s such a fun way to get them involved and personalize the garden with splashes of color and childlike creativity. 

Grow in a Clear Container 

One of the most intriguing parts of the planting process is watching how it happens right before your eyes. Children love to explore the reasons why and how a process works. Use clear containers to plant seedlings before moving them into planters, or garden plots. That way your child can marvel at the change of a seed into a seedling. 

Build a Watering Puddle 

If you’re an avid gardener, then you likely expect and welcome pollinators and other gentle creatures into your space. Pollinators do wonders for the ecosystem and should be respected and cared for. You and your child can do your part by creating a refreshing watering puddle for thirsty pollinators. You’ll want to take a shallow container and fill it with no more than a few inches of water. Before you add the water, be sure to incorporate plenty of rocks, pebbles, sticks, and other items of varying sizes for pollinators to safely use as a landing space. 

Are You Missing A Trick? 5 Tips On Utilizing Social Media Platforms To Reach Employers Or Prospective Clients

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More than half of the world’s population has a presence on social media, with that percentage topping out at more than 80 percent in North America alone. With that said, social media plays a big role in our lives, and that includes our professional lives. Social media can be a hindrance to your job search, but it can also be a major help. Here are five tips for utilizing social media platforms to reach employers or prospective clients.

Keep a Clean Profile

Many of us know that LinkedIn is the go-to website for those who are looking for jobs or want to establish networking connections, and people take it very seriously. While you could have all of the experience in the world, it’s probably not going to get noticed unless you’re allowing yourself to stand out via your profile. With that said, tidy up your profile on LinkedIn, showing off your list of accomplishments, skills, and job history.

This will allow any recruiters or clients to see your work without you even needing to send them a resume. Think of your LinkedIn profile as your CV that’s open for others to see. Even if you don’t have deep experience, you can still show off some of the skills you’ve acquired over the years. As for other social media platforms, try to keep things professional. A good rule of thumb is, “If I wouldn’t post it on LinkedIn, I shouldn’t post it on (Facebook, Twitter, etc.).”

Get Engaged

When we say get engaged, we don’t mean that you have to start wedding planning, you just have to start taking part in online conversations. Sites like LinkedIn will have plenty of opportunities for you to discuss job-related topics on other posts while also creating your own that can be seen throughout your network or even to the general public. Getting involved in these discussions is a great way to get your name out there, and they can act like pre-interview questions for recruiters.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you should start getting into arguments with strangers online as you might on Reddit. If you’re able to have a discussion where you keep it professional even while disagreeing with someone on a topic, that is going to be a good look for the way you present yourself online, which tends to translate in person. Look for more active discussions, too, as that will bring more eyeballs to your profile.

Avoid Desperation 

When the money is getting tight and you haven’t gotten any bites back from the applications and resumes that you’ve already sent out, it can be easy (and perfectly natural) to go into desperation mode. When this happens, you’re likely to see a lot of people post on social media about how they need a job right now and are practically begging for anyone to hire them. While it can get a lot of attention, it might not be the attention that they want.

The more that you engage with recruiters and other posters online is a great way to get your name out there, but you don’t want to comment something like “Hello hire me” every time that your dream company posts a status update. There are many ways to get attention on social media, but employers tend to look down on those who frequently ask for the job when they probably don’t have the right qualifications.

Follow the Trends

Every social media platform out there is going to have a section where you can see what’s trending and why. The best way that you can get eyes on your profile and establish a presence that will get the attention of potential employers is by following these trends. Businesses always want to know what’s trending, too, and social media teams are frequently scouring the latest hashtags and searches so they can get engaged.

Whenever you post a new update, try to include a trending hashtag, but make sure to do it tastefully. You’ll want to avoid using a hashtag that’s blatantly criticizing a particular company because that could get you landed on a recruiting blacklist. Also, try to stick to hashtags that are relevant as companies don’t really need to know your opinion about the latest single release or celebrity breakup.

Delete What’s Not Used

Have you gotten to the point in your life where the only social media platform that you’re using on a daily basis is LinkedIn? If that’s the case, there are a couple of options that you should consider. The first option is to make all of the other social media profiles that you have private that way potential employers can’t go through your entire history. This is the method that most use when they want to hang on to their Facebook or Twitter accounts “just in case.”

The other method, of course, is to wipe those profiles from the internet completely. If you haven’t touched your Facebook profile in years and the most recent picture is of you at a college party looking a little “under the weather,” then it might be time to delete the profile. While having just a LinkedIn profile doesn’t tell your complete story, it tells the one that you want employers to see.

5 Common Mistakes To Avoid While Mountain Biking

Posted on by scatty

In every facet of life, people will make mistakes. Whether it be at work, driving, etc., mistakes happen and some are either avoidable while others are simple slips of the brain. This also applies to mountain biking, and with around 40 million people in the United States alone, there are millions of mistakes made on the trails each year.

Some of these mistakes can be pretty rare and shouldn’t really be seen as anything more than a one-off situation, but there are also some incredibly common mistakes that can be easily avoided. Let’s take a look at some of the most common mistakes that people make while mountain biking, and how you can prevent them from happening to you.

Riding Dirty

There’s no way around the fact that your mountain bike is going to get dirty. After all, some of the more memorable experiences you’ll have on your bike come from when you’re shredding up some of the muddiest terrains around. When The ride is over, though, many bikers can get very tired and forget to perform the proper cleaning. This can lead to a lot of problems, so you’ll want to make sure that you’re always deep cleaning your bike after a dirty ride.

Some of the most important parts of your bike can get clogged up with dirt and mud, causing them to deteriorate faster. Many make the mistake of simply spraying off their bikes so that it looks clean on the surface, but don’t bother getting into the nooks and crannies to get the clumps of mud out of their gears and pedals. There are plenty of great deep-cleaning products for mountain bikes available that will make things much more efficient and getting a concentrated spray on the dirtier spots will ensure cleanliness. 

Pedal Problems

Many of the people who ride mountain bikes for the first time assume that they can ride it like the regular bicycles that they’re used to. Because of this, some of the most common problems come from pedaling as many think that all bikes are pedaled the same way. They’re quick to learn that this isn’t the case as their feet slip once they try to pedal with their toes instead of having the ball of their feet slightly in front of the pedal’s axle.

A lot of new riders also tend to overpedal instead of allowing themselves to ride through the trail. There are certain sections of trails in which you won’t need to pedal at all, and it’s more important to glide along while keeping the pedals as far from the ground as possible. Overpedaling leads to fatigue and an increased likelihood of hitting the pedals on mounds of dirt which can send you over the handlebars.

Body Positioning

One of the biggest reasons that all mountain biking experts tell anyone that’s new to the hobby to stick to the easiest trails at first is because they need to learn the basics, and body positioning is the one that you can only really learn with time. As we mentioned with pedaling, there are a lot of new riders who get into mountain biking for the first time thinking that they can ride like they’re sitting in an office chair.

It’s important to have your weight shift throughout the ride and never keep your limbs straight. Getting up hills and making sure you aren’t going too fast down slopes will be completely dependent on your body positioning. While regular bicycling might be a leisurely and relaxing activity, mountain biking doesn’t allow you to sit comfortably, so don’t get used to your rear being on the seat very often.

Losing Focus

There are certain aspects of life in which you need different amounts of focus. When you’re driving, you want to make sure that you’re focusing about 1/8th of a mile ahead of you. When you’re casually walking down the sidewalk, you really don’t need to focus on anything more than a couple of feet ahead of you as you don’t want to trip on a rock or uneven concrete. Think of mountain biking as more like driving than walking.

A lot of new riders tend to focus directly on what’s ahead of their front wheel instead of the trail ahead. This can lead to dangerous speeds going into a sharp turn or completely missing an obstacle that may have made its way onto the trail like a rock or tree branch. Keeping your eyes about 15 feet ahead of you on the trail can save you from a lot of wipeouts while allowing you to maintain proper speeds.

Not Coming Equipped

There are plenty of other common mistakes that aren’t really ones that pertain to beginners like not having the right tire pressure or air pressure in the suspension for a particular trail, but one that’s far more common for rookies is coming unprepared.

Mountain bikers should be bringing plenty of food and water to make sure that they’re properly hydrated with good nutrition while always checking their safety gear. Whether it’s helmets, shoes, socks, gloves, eyewear, etc., too many riders show up to the trail with only their mountain bikes thinking that’s all it takes.

5 Tips For Mountain Bike Beginners

Posted on by scatty

Mountain biking is one of the most popular outdoor activities, especially in the United States where there are around 40 million people who hit the trails each year. Mountain biking is certainly a challenging activity, but a very rewarding one that allows you to see places that you might not otherwise see.

With that in mind, there are plenty of new people that get into mountain biking on a yearly basis, as well. However, many of these people can become discouraged from riding because they try to jump into things too quickly. If you’re one of the many who are thinking about getting into mountain biking, there are some things that you should consider. Here are five tips for mountain bike beginners.

Setting Up Your Bike

No matter what item it is, whenever you get it from the store, you’re going to want to try it out the second that exit the store. While your new mountain bike may be ready to ride on the street, it probably isn’t ready for the trails just yet. You’ll want to make sure that it’s set up to perfection before you go on any serious ride. The first thing that you’ll want to check is the seat, making sure that you have the right height and position.

Stability and comfort are the two most important aspects of your seat, and from there you can adjust the suspension. The pressure needed will be different for everyone depending on weight, and you can adjust this if you drop or gain a few pounds. The other big part of the setup is the tires, as the right amount of air pressure can make or break any ride. It should be adjusted based on the trail. Keep the gears well-greased and your bike clean both before and after every ride.

Get The Right Gear

Now that you have the right bike, you’re not quite ready to roll just yet. After all, you can’t just hop on with a pair of sandals and some casual clothes and call it a day. First thing first, you’ll need a helmet. Make sure you find one that fits you properly above all else and check for the safety ratings. 

As for other external gear, you’ll want to protect both your eyes and hands with gloves and glasses. Wicking shirts, padded shorts (or tights), cycling socks, and other articles of clothing that will keep you cool and dry are much-needed while mountain biking. Keeping your health in peak form is important, too, so grab some hydration equipment like water bottles and a small first-aid kit. As for your bike, there is a long list of equipment that you’ll need including spare tubes, a patch kit, tire levers, and a multi-tool.

Start Slow

It can be very tempting to want to tackle the strongest trails right away, especially if you’re someone that’s in good shape and can easily go hiking on some tough trails. If you’re new to mountain biking, though, get yourself acclimated to riding by starting with the easiest trails. If you’re not sure which trails are ones are for beginners, there will be plenty of people willing to point you in the right direction, as well as forums online (think Facebook, Reddit, etc.).

Beginner trails can also be easier to spot thanks to being marked while having well-ridden paths that are wide and mostly flat. Once you start to get a feel for the bike and how it works, you can start working your way up to hillier and narrower terrains. Even the most experienced mountain bikers can have trouble with some of the more difficult trails, so don’t be discouraged if you’re struggling to keep up with the hard ones.

Learn The Riding Basics

Most of us know how to ride a bicycle already. After all, they say it’s something that you can never forget. There are several positions that you’ll want to learn that will come in handy whether you’re in the toughest terrains or the flattest and smoothest ones. The first position is the neutral position where your knees and elbows are slightly bent with your index fingers ready to brake at any time. The ready position has you shifting your weight back with your back parallel to the ground and rear off of the seat.

Your body will be positioned in different ways when you’re climbing, descending, and turning, so get a feel for where you need to be in these situations. Always keep your eyes ahead about 15 to 20 feet on the trail and pick the right line. It’s going to take some adjusting but will come to you quickly, especially when you share the trail with others, which leads us to our final point.

Trail Etiquette

Every trail that you ride on should be one that’s open to the public, first and foremost. Obey any regulations that are posted on the trail and keep control of your bicycle while not leaving any trace of your ride behind.

Yield to more expert riders so that you aren’t clogging up the trail, and make sure to get out of the way if you need to stop. Most importantly, though, have fun and stay safe and you’ll be an expert in no time.