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#flowers of western NY
lake-lady · 4 days
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Collecting 3 kinds of violets for wild violet jelly today! Pictured are long spurred and blue marsh violets, not pictured are a few sweet white violets I found as well :) 💜
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invoke-parlay · 8 months
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Hello my beautiful friends! Monarch caterpillars on the milkweed next to my apartment building 💚☺️
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vlkphoto · 5 months
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for Peace
Mural for Peace, by Norwegian artist Per Krohg, hanging as the backdrop of the Security Council chamber at the United Nations secretariat, New York City, NY.
Untitled (Mural for Peace) was painted by Norwegian artist Per Krohg (1889 – 1965). He was born in Oslo, Norway and was the son of well-known painter Christian Krohg. The painting has sections showing symbols of human struggle.  The bottom center has a phoenix rising from a world covered in ashes, symbolizing the world rebuilding itself after war. The upper center section shows a man and a woman both kneeling and holding flowers with children. The surrounding panels show people happy, singing and dancing while the lower section is dark and somber, showing a dungeon, dragon lairs, soldiers, and war machines. The people are struggling to free themselves from the bonds and chains. The symbol of rising from the dark ashes to the light happiness is inspired by the humankind’s efforts to achieve peace, equality, and freedom.  Artist Per Krohg valued family happiness and unity and is featured at the paintings’ center. He said, “the essence of the idea is to give an impression of light, security and joy. The world we see in the foreground is collapsing, while the new world based on clarity and harmony can be built up.” The mural was presented to the United Nations by the Prime Minister of Norway Oscar Torp on behalf of the country of Norway on 22 September 1952 at an informal meeting of the Security Council.   Donor Region:  Western European and Other Groups Donor:  Norway Classification:  Paintings & Works on Paper Materials:  Other Medium:  Oil on Belgian linen Location (Building):  Conference Building (CB) Location floor: 2nd Floor Donation Date:  September 22, 1952 Artist or Maker:  Per Krohg Dimensions:  18'-3" x 29'-4"
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sebeth · 1 year
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The World Of Ice And Fire: The Rhoynar (Revised 12/8/22)
Warning, Spoilers Ahead…
  The Rhoyne is the “mightiest river in the world” and its many tributaries spread across western Essos.  The Rhoynar refer to the river as “Mother Rhoyne”.
The Rhoynar, like ancient Egypt, grew rich off “the bounty of their river” and developed a “civilization and culture as storied and ancient as the Old Empire of Ghis”. The civilization was famed for their fishers, traders, teachers, scholars, and workers in wood and stone and metal.
 The Rhoynish cities were known for their art and music. The cities were fiercely independent, each with its own ruler.
The most famous cities of the Rhoynar were:
Ghoyan Drohe in the Velvet Hills, known for its groves and waterfalls
Ny Sar, the city of fountains, alive with song
Ar Noy on the Qhoyne, famous for its halls of green marble
Sar Mell, pale and filled with flowers
Sarhoy, sea-girt with canals and saltwater gardens
Chroyane, the greatest city, a festival city with its great Palace of Love
 Gender equality was the norm among the Rhoynar. A trait that passes on to Dorne after the great migration led by Nymeria. Cities could be ruled by either a prince or a princess and women “fought as fierecely as the males”.
The Rhoynar had their own magic – one based on water. “It was said the Mother Rhoyne herself whispered to her children of every threat, that the Rhoynar princes wielded strange, uncanny powers…and that their cities were protected by ‘watery walls’ that would rise down to drown any foe.”
 Quick recap on known magic systems:
Rhoynar – water
Valyrians – fire & blood magic
Children of the Forest/Greenseers – nature, specifically weirwood trees
R’hollor – fire
Others – Ice and death
Faceless Men – Death
Warlords of Quaith – Evening of the Shade (weirwood-derived?)
Drowned God/Merlings – water
Asshai – Death and Shadows
Euron’s upcoming apocalypse – Everything up to and including the kitchen sink, will feature lots of blood and death magic
 A peaceful people, the Rhoynar were still a formidable foe to the Andals. The Rhoynar warriors were known for their silver-scaled armor, fish-head helm, tall spear, and turtle-shell shield. The spear would also become a famed weapon of the Dornish.
The Rhoynar lived in peace for centuries, not interested in expansion, content to live near the mighty river – “their home, mother, and god”. Besides the occasional skirmish with “savage people in the hills and forests”, life was golden.
The Rhoynar is the clear winner of the ancient civilizations we’ve encountered so far: gender equality, culture and love of nature, no slavery, no colonization.
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end.  The Rhoynar’s ending began with the fall of Old Ghis.
Up next, the Rhoynar versus the Valyrian Freehold.
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wutbju · 4 months
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John Quentin Wesley, age 93 of Morganfield, KY went home peacefully on Wednesday, May 24, 2023. Quentin believed the promise of eternal life and that Jesus has prepared a home for him in heaven (John 14:2-4). He was born on October 29, 1929 at the very start of the Great Depression. Times were hard. He did not have an official birth certificate until 1964. With God’s grace, he and his 5 siblings endured a rural life in Sturgis, KY.
After graduating from Sturgis High School in 1948, Quentin attended Bob Jones University 1948-1949 in Greenville, SC. After one year, he transferred to Western Kentucky University where he was on the track team. He went on to law school at UK. While in Lexington, he met the love of his life, Hildegarde Taylor from Hardinsburg, KY. They married in 1955 and had 4 children. He served in the United States Air Force from 1954 until his honorable discharge in 1965 as Captain. While based at Wright Patterson, he worked on contracts for the B52 bomber.
Quentin practiced law for 50 years in a bustling office on Court St. across from the courthouse. Mr. Wesley represented the people of his community with honor and compassion. He was dedicated to his beloved community and answered the call to serve. Quentin utilized his popularity and his integrity to serve in many positions. Early in his professional years, he presided as Sturgis Kiwanis club president and served on the Henderson Community advisory board. He served as Morganfield City Attorney for 25 years and Union County Attorney. He represented the U.C. Board of Education for 50 years and the U.C. Water District. Quentin was selected Union County Judge Pro-Tem. In 1968 he was elected to the Kentucky House of Representatives and represented his constituents of the 7th district at the State Capital in Frankfort and served on the Executive Branch Ethics Committee. He was a Commonwealth Attorney. Quentin served on the Tennessee Tombigbee Waterway for 8 years. Mr. Wesley was a Charter Life Fellow of the Kentucky Bar Association.
Through his education, military service, community service, and career, he traveled and collected many friends along the way. He and Hildegarde loved to travel. Their destinations included China and Russia. He and Hildegarde enjoyed driving across the country to see the wonders of this country he so loved; always returning to realize his blessings in Union County. On many occasions he proudly drove around “to look at crops”. Quentin was devoted to his faith. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Morganfield, where he led an adult men’s Bible study class for 50 years. In recent years, he helped with children’s vacation Bible school and facilitated the construction of the steeple on the existing sanctuary in Morganfield.
Quentin enjoyed the game of golf and cherished his regular golfing buddies. He planted many of the trees, bushes, and flowers by hand at the Breckinridge Golf Club. He wanted to preserve the course’s beauty for future generations of golfers. Quentin was a fan of all sports. He followed the Union County Braves, UK Wildcats, Oakland Raiders, and the Cincinnati Reds. Uncle Quentin adored all of his nieces and nephews. He kept up with their lives and supported their interests. He was always proud of their many accomplishments. He appreciated that his family frequently came to visit to just catch up on current events and news of family members.
Quentin is preceded in death by his parents, Charles Ray Wesley and Roberta Wynn Wesley; 2 brothers, Bob Wesley and wife Ida and Bo Wesley and wife Lillian; 3 sisters, Mary Cowan and husband Fred, Kas Sprague and husband A.D., and Susie Davis and husband Bob.
Survivors include:
Wife of 68 years: Hildegarde Wesley of Morganfield, KY
2 Sons: Jeffrey Taylor Wesley of Morganfield, KY
John Quentin Wesley and wife Karen of St. Petersburg, FL
2 Daughters: Katherine Virginia “Kassie” DePaiva and husband James of New York, NY
Sara Lincoln Mills and husband Brad of Louisville, KY
5 Grandchildren: Lindsay Woomer and husband Keith
Rachel Mills
Kallie Lobel and husband Jordan
J.Q. DePaiva
Dreams DePaiva
3 Great Grandchildren: Ollie Lobel, Wes Lobel, and John Quentin Woomer
The service will be 2PM Sunday, May 28, 2023 at Whitsell Funeral Home in Morganfield. The burial will be in Pythian Ridge Cemetery in Sturgis. The visitation will be 12 Noon until service time on Sunday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions can be made to the Gideons International, c/o Bob White, 1839 SR 270 East, Sturgis, KY 42459.
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joshvandervoort · 5 months
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Joshua Vandervoort | Love's Canvas - Painting Passion through Nature's Beauty
For Joshua Vandervoort, rooted in Rochester, New York, this connection with nature is more than just a soothing backdrop - it is a way of life. Born and raised amidst the verdant wilderness and tranquil waterways of Western NY, Joshua found a deep-seated love for nature in the rolling hills and sparkling Finger Lakes of Southern Tier region. His formative years spent hiking, fishing, and sailing imprinted a lasting need to preserve this beauty for future generations. The stewardship instilled by his family resonates in each outdoor endeavor, whether he is navigating waters in his fishing boat or backpacking in the breathtaking landscapes of the Adirondack and Catskill mountains.
The bond between humans and nature is not merely one of coexistence but of a deeply interwoven relationship. Nature, in its unaltered form, possesses a captivating ability to invoke a sense of awe and reverence. The sight of a fiery sunset casting its hues across the sky or the delicate petals of a flower unfolding in the morning light evokes an emotion that cannot be replicated elsewhere. It is this unparalleled beauty that stirs the heart and kindles a love affair with the natural world. Josh Vandervoort
As Joshua Vandervoort stands testament, the magic of the natural world is not bound by societal constructs or geographical limitations - it permeates every corner of the globe, touching lives in myriad ways. The towering, snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas inspire awe and reverence, the lush greenery of the Amazon rainforest teems with life and diversity, and the serene beaches of the Pacific islands whisper tales of tranquility and peace. The tapestry of nature is as diverse as humanity itself, each strand imbued with its own unique beauty and charm. Amid the hustle and bustle of modern life, the call of the wild serves as a reminder of our intrinsic connection to the Earth, a call that beckons us to step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and bask in the sheer joy of being alive.
The nurturing presence of nature extends beyond the visual spectacle it offers. The therapeutic essence of a gentle breeze, the soothing melody of raindrops, and the grounding touch of earth underfoot possess an innate ability to heal the spirit. Countless studies have underlined the positive impact of nature on mental health, from reducing stress and anxiety to fostering a sense of tranquility and well-being. The symbiotic relationship between humans and nature is not just about admiration; it's about finding solace and restoration in its embrace.
At the heart of the love affair with nature lies a sense of stewardship and responsibility. As humans, the custodians of this beautiful planet, it is our duty to protect and preserve the very source of our inspiration. The threat of climate change and environmental degradation serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of this bond. To cherish and safeguard nature is not just an option but a fundamental commitment to securing a harmonious future for generations to come.
To Joshua Vandervoort, the love for nature often translates into various forms of creative expression. Artists harness the essence of nature's beauty, capturing its magnificence on canvas or through the lens of a camera. Poets weave verses that echo the sentiments felt in the presence of a cascading waterfall or a serene meadow. Musicians compose symphonies that emulate the rhythms of the natural world. Nature's love is not just observed but actively celebrated and immortalized through artistic endeavors. Josh Vandervoort Rochester New York
The allure of loving the nature extends far beyond the individual; it fosters a sense of community and shared experience. Parks, gardens, and natural reserves become gathering grounds where people converge to revel in the magnificence of the outdoors. Families bond, friends connect, and strangers find common ground amidst the beauty of nature, nurturing a sense of belonging and interconnectedness.
For Joshua Vandervoort, the rhythms of nature also serve as a constant source of inspiration. Beyond its aesthetic charm, nature serves as an invaluable teacher. It imparts lessons of resilience, adaptability, and the cyclical nature of life. Witnessing the changing seasons, the ebb and flow of tides, and the growth of plants from seed to bloom, humans are reminded of the enduring cycles that govern existence. There is profound wisdom to be gleaned from nature's rhythms, teaching us patience, fortitude, and the beauty of impermanence.
The love for nature is not merely an emotion; it is an ethos, a way of life. It embodies a deep-rooted respect for the environment, an understanding of our interconnectedness with all living beings, and a commitment to cherish and protect the natural world. It's a sentiment that, when nurtured, enriches the human experience, fostering a profound sense of joy, wonder, and belonging.
In essence, the canvas of love, painted by the breathtaking beauty of nature's vibrant colors, delicate textures, and captivating melodies, is a profound testament to the indelible bond between Joshua Vandervoort and the awe-inspiring natural world. Every stroke of this portrait tells a story of interconnectedness and harmony, transcending the confines of time and culture. It is an eternal ode, a symphony of gratitude, celebrating the boundless magnificence that envelops us.
As individuals, we are but humble admirers, captivated by nature's grandeur and humbled by its intricacies. As a society, we have the privilege and responsibility to be custodians of this planet, guardians of its delicate ecosystems and guardians of our own existence. Our relationship with nature is not merely a love story, it is a lifelong commitment—a sacred pact to honor, cherish, and protect the very essence that sustains us, nurturing us with its bountiful gifts.
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dragonballhoodie · 6 months
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Dragon Ball Hawaii Shirt: Unique Combination Between Famous Manga and Hawaiian Culture
In the modern world of fashion, combining cultural elements from many different places has become a popular trend. One of the excellent examples of this combination is the Dragon Ball Hawaii Shirt. Created from a unique combination of one of the most famous manga series of all time and colorful Hawaiian culture, the Dragon Ball Hawaii Shirt not only represents creativity in the fashion industry but also brings harmony between two different worlds. In this article, we will learn about the origin, design and influence of the Dragon Ball Hawaii Shirt in the world of contemporary fashion and culture... see more: https://500px.com/photo/1080230750/dragon-ball-hawaii-shirt-by-dragon-ball-hoodie
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Origin and History of Dragon Ball Hawaii Shirt
The Dragon Ball Hawaii Shirt comes from the unique idea of ​​combining two completely different elements - Dragon Ball and Hawaiian culture. To better understand the appearance of this shirt, let's take a look at the origins of both parts:
Dragon Ball: Dragon Ball is a famous Japanese manga series, created by Akira Toriyama. Starting to appear in 1984, Dragon Ball tells the story of the journey of Goku - a powerful Saiyan - and his friends in search of gems called "Dragon Balls," which have the ability to summon a huge dragon that can grant a wish. The manga has become a cultural phenomenon and is loved around the world, especially in Japan and Western countries.
Hawaiian Culture: Hawaii is a beautiful and culturally diverse archipelago located in the Pacific Ocean. Hawaiian culture is characterized by elements such as the sea, sand, flowers, lua festivals, and ukulele music. Hawaii is also a famous tourist destination with beautiful natural scenery and many outdoor fun activities. The combination of Dragon Ball and Hawaiian culture creates the Dragon Ball Hawaii Shirt, providing a unique way to combine a passion for comic books and a love of Hawaiian culture... see detail: https://gab.com/dragonballhoodie/posts/111367955853015063
contact me:
Address: 48 Burd Street #109, Nyack, NY 10960, United States Gmail: [email protected] Website: https://dragonballstore.us/dragon-ball-hawaii-shirt
See more related information about Dragon Ball Store:
Dragon Ball Hawaii Shirt: Unique Combination Between Great Anime And Hawaiian Beach Style
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buffalojoe1 · 1 year
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Things to Do in Buffalo, NY
Buffalo, NY is a city that offers something for everyone. From its rich history to its thriving arts and culture scene, there's always something to do in Buffalo. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some of the top things to do in Buffalo, NY.
Explore the City's History
Buffalo has a rich and fascinating history that's worth exploring. One of the best ways to learn about the city's past is by visiting the Buffalo History Museum. The museum showcases the city's history from its Native American roots to its industrial boom and beyond. You can also take a walking tour of some of the city's historic neighborhoods, such as Allentown, which is known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant arts scene, and the Elmwood Village, which boasts a great selection of independent shops and restaurants.
Another must-visit destination for history buffs is the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site. This is where Theodore Roosevelt took the oath of office following the assassination of President William McKinley. The site offers guided tours and exhibits that provide a fascinating glimpse into this pivotal moment in American history.
Check out the Arts and Culture Scene
Buffalo's arts and culture scene is thriving, with a variety of museums, galleries, and theaters to explore. The Albright-Knox Art Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers, with a collection that includes works by Picasso, Van Gogh, and Warhol. The Burchfield Penney Art Center is another great option, with a focus on contemporary art and artists from Western New York.
If you're a fan of theater, be sure to check out the Shea's Performing Arts Center. This historic theater has been beautifully restored and hosts a variety of Broadway shows, concerts, and other events throughout the year.
For music lovers, Buffalo has a thriving music scene with many venues to choose from. The Tralf Music Hall is a great spot to catch live music, with a range of genres represented, from jazz to rock to blues. The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra is another great option for those who enjoy classical music.
Enjoy the Great Outdoors
Buffalo is situated on the eastern shore of Lake Erie, which means there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Take a stroll along the Buffalo Harbor State Park, where you can enjoy views of the lake and the city skyline. You can also check out the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, which features a variety of plants and flowers from around the world.
If you're looking for something a little more active, head to Delaware Park. This 350-acre park offers walking and biking paths, as well as tennis courts, a golf course, and more. During the winter months, the park is also a popular spot for ice skating.
For those who enjoy hiking and nature, the Niagara Gorge is a must-visit destination. Located just 20 minutes from downtown Buffalo, the Niagara Gorge offers stunning views of the Niagara River and the surrounding area. You can hike along the gorge, take a guided tour, or even go kayaking.
Indulge in the Local Cuisine
No visit to Buffalo would be complete without sampling some of the city's famous cuisine. Buffalo is known for its chicken wings, which were invented in the city in the 1960s. The Anchor Bar is the birthplace of the chicken wing, and is still one of the best places to try them. Other great spots for wings include Duff's Famous Wings and Bar Bill Tavern.
Buffalo is also known for its beef on weck sandwich, which consists of thinly sliced roast beef piled high on a kummelweck roll. Schwabl's and Charlie the Butcher are two of the most popular spots to try this local specialty.
From its rich history to its thriving arts and culture scene and abundance of outdoor activities, Buffalo, NY has something to offer everyone. Whether you're a resident or just visiting, be sure to check out some of the city's top attractions. Explore its history, take in a show or exhibit, or simply enjoy the great outdoors. And don't forget to indulge in the local cuisine, which is just as much a part of the city's culture as its history and arts scene. With so much to see and do, you're sure to have a great time in Buffalo.
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jinsai-ish · 1 year
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11, 17, 23 for the ask game!
11. Favorite native flower (to NY) would be blue flag iris, followed by milkweed.
17. Oh Lord, how many times have I moved? Are we counting college? So, bear in mind my father was a farm worker, which means that housing was part of his pay, and that when he had to change to a new farm it meant a new home. So.... 8 as a kid, 4 in college, 5 as an adult. 17 in total.
23. So, I'm very good at cooking a lot of one-pot meals (curries, stir fry, stews, etc) that others may consider difficult, but it's all together so, at least it all finishes at the same time. Cooking any Western style meal with multiple sides is HARD because you're trying to get everything to finish around the same time. So, yeah, Western style dinner is prob the hardest for me.
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lake-lady · 7 hours
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Making wild violet jelly is magical!!
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unclescurvy · 2 years
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2022 Undrafted Rookies
It’s such a rare achievement: to be an undrafted rookie in an NFL camp and somehow shine brightly enough to make the 53-man roster. Here are the teams that kept UFA’s this year: ARIZONA None ATLANTA WR Jared Bernhardt (Ferris State)
DT Timmy Horne (Kansas State)
LB Nate Landman (Colorado)
BALTIMORE
LB Josh Ross (Michigan)
BUFFALO
None
CAROLINA
DT Marquan McCall (Kentucky)
CHICAGO
TE/FB Jake Tonges (California)
DE Kingsley Jonathan (Syracuse)
LB Sterling Weatherford (Miami of Ohio)
LB Jack Sanborn (Wisconsin)
CB Jaylon Jones (Mississippi)
CB Josh Blackwell (Duke)
CINCINNATI
LS Cal Adomitis (Pittsburgh)
CLEVELAND
S D’Anthony Bell (West Florida)
DALLAS
WR Dennis Houston (Western Illinois)
TE Peyton Hendershot (Indiana)
S Markquese Bell (Florida A&M)
DENVER
WR Jalen Virgil (Appalachian State)
DETROIT
DT Demetrius Taylor (Appalachian State)
GREEN BAY
LS Jack Coco (Georgia Tech)
HOUSTON
FB Troy Hairston (Central Michigan)
DT Kurt Hinish (Notre Dame)
LB Jake Hansen (Illinois)
INDIANAPOLIS
C Wesley French (Western Michigan)
LB JoJo Domann (Nebraska)
CB Dallis Flowers (Pittsburg State)
JACKSONVILLE
WR Kendric Pryor (Wisconsin)
LB De’Shaan Dixon (Norfolk State)
KANSAS CITY
None
LAS VEGAS
LB Luke Masterson (Wake Forest)
LB Darien Butler (Arizona State)
CB Sam Webb (Missouri Western)
S Isaiah Pola-Mao (USC)
LA CHARGERS
None
LA RAMS
WR Lance McCutcheon (Montana State)
LB Jake Hummel (Iowa State)
LB Keir Thomas (Florida State)
MIAMI
TE Tanner Conner (Idaho State)
CB Kader Kohou (Texas A&M-Commerce)
MINNESOTA
LB Luiji Vilain (Wake Forest)
P Ryan Wright (Tulane)
NEW ENGLAND
DE DaMarcus Mitchell (Purdue)
S Brenden Schooler (Texas)
NEW ORLEANS
OT Lewis Kidd (Montana State)
NY GIANTS
LB Tomon Fox (North Carolina)
NY JETS
S Tony Adams (Illinois)
PHILADELPHIA
G Josh Sills (Oklahoma State)
CB Josh Jobe (Alabama)
S Reed Blankenship (Middle Tennessee)
PITTSBURGH
RB Jaylen Warren (Oklahoma State)
SAN FRANCISCO
RB Jordan Mason (Georgia Tech)
SEATTLE
S Joey Blount (Virginia)
TAMPA BAY
LB Olakunle Fatukasi (Rutgers)
TENNESSEE
RB Julius Chestnut (Sacred Heart)
CB Tre Avery (Rutgers)
P Ryan Stonehouse (Colorado State)
WASHINGTON
TE Armani Rogers (Ohio)
DT Donovan Jeter (Michigan)
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It breaks my heart at what happened to the buffalo community. I give props to buffalo for being the first city and the first community to finally give faces to the victims and not give power to the shooter.
I wrote lyrics to YANARI's song called Cascading Bodies because I was so appalled at the constant promoting of who the actual shooter was in every shooting that has happened within the last decade.
Western NY has the power to change the script and is doing it.
Cascading Bodies
Give names to the killers
Leave victims blank faces
Empty bodies not worth to televise
Put the madman on a pedal stool
Shunning yet glorifying their atrocious acts
Cascading bodies riddled with holes
Only flowers to mark where slain
Everyone feeds a killer
No one starves the hate
Everyone feeds a killer
No one starves the hate
Trigger happy fool plastered on every screen
Egging the next in line to make it more extreme
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Reblog for this lil bb
Ignore for satan
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chinaaesthetic · 3 years
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Chinese New Year! 新年快乐!
*please note that the information below isn’t celebrated by everyone in the same way. Some customs are more common in northern China rather than southern China and vice-versa.
How to wish someone a Happy Chinese New Year:
1. 新年快乐!Xīnnián kuàilè! - Happy New Year! (This can be used one the first day of the lunar calendar as well as the Gregorian calendar).
2. 新春快乐!Xīnchūn kuàilè! - Happy Spring Festival!
3. 新年好!Xīnnián hǎo! - Hello! (This is how you greet people during Chinese New Year).
When greeting or wishing someone a Happy Chinese New Year, many Chinese people wish their family and friends things like: “I hope you have a happy and healthy family,” “I hope you get a job promotion,” “I hope you have good fortune and pockets overflowing with gold.” Here are some examples:
4. 恭喜发财!Gōngxǐ fācái! - Wish you a successful and prosperous year! (This saying is known well because of this Chinese New Year song you can watch here).
5. 阖家幸福! Hé jiā xìngfú - Wish you a happy family!
6. 事业有成! Shìyè yǒu chéng - Hope you have a successful career!
You can watch this YouTube video or read this article to learn more about how to wish someone a Happy Chinese New Year!
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What is Chinese New Year?
Chinese New Year, also known as lunar new year or the spring festival, celebrates the first day of the new year on the lunar calendar. In 2021, this holiday falls on Friday, February 12!  This holiday is the most important holiday to those who celebrate this - its importance can be comparable to how Americans celebrate Christmas.
People have been celebrating Chinese New Year for about 3,500 - 3,900 years. It’s exact origins are unknown, but this tradition is believed to have started in the Shang Dynasty (1600-1049 BC) when people would make sacrifices to the gods and their ancestors towards the end of a year. However, the tradition was recorded and official during the Han Dynasty (202 BC - 220 AD) when Emperor Wu began using the lunar calendar. He chose to follow this calendar because it would let him know when second new moon after the winter solstice was.
Now, many Southeast Asian countries and people besides the Chinese celebrate Chinese New Year such as: Koreans, Vietnamese, Tibetans, etc. However, it is common to not see Japan celebrate Chinese New Year.
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Why do I keep hearing about the Year of the Ox/Cow?
Just like in western culture, there are zodiacs in eastern culture that the Chinese follow. There are 12 zodiacs, and these zodiacs follow a cycle of 12 years. Each new year represents one of the zodiacs. 
In order, they are: Rat/mouse, Ox/cow, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
2021 is year of the Ox/Cow - 2020 was year of the Rat/Mouse - 2019 was Year of the Pig... and so on. 
Because each zodiac has its own characteristics, they define a year. Chinese zodiac scholars have said in 2021, Year of the Ox, will be a flip-around positive change. They believe this year will be lucky and that it will be a good time to focus on love and relationships. People who are born in years of the Ox are known to have a lot of endurance, be calm and confident, but are also stubborn.
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Just like in western culture, these zodiacs are believed to affect personality, fortune, etc, and instead of getting your zodiac by your birth month, you get your zodiac by your birth year. If you are interested in your Chinese zodiac, you can type in your birthday on this calculator and read about it.
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What happens during Chinese New Year and how long do you celebrate it for? Lantern Festival?
On average, Chinese New Year is celebrated for about 15-16 days (from about New Year’s eve to the first full moon). Preparations start seven days before New Years because stores and restaurants close and people travel to be with their families. Most students are also on their big break during this time - they get off from school around the beginning of january and go back after Chinese New Year. It should also be noted that Northern China and Southern China celebrate the new year differently.
During the preparation period, people go shopping for food and decorations. They also clean the house very well. If living in a different city than one’s family, many people will travel back to their hometown to celebrate with family.
During the New Year’s Eve period, the house is decorated with New Year’s decorations, and there is a reunion dinner with family at the host’s house. Out of all the dinners you have during the year, it is incredibly important you don’t miss this dinner, which is why there are so many issues with travelling during this time. At this dinner, you eat many lucky foods such as dumplings and fish. Also during this time, the older generations will give younger generations something called 红包, which translates to “red envelope.” These envelopes are filled with money and are only given on very special occasions such as new years and weddings. Friends give these to each other, but it is not common at all for a younger generation to give one to an older generation person. There is a custom where families stay up late to “watch over the new year,” which is called 守岁. Late at night, people also like to go to temples to hear the first bells of the new year ring because they believe it will drive away bad luck.
On Chinese New Year’s Day, fireworks go off, families cook and eat large meals together, sacrifices are made to ancestors, etc. (Fireworks are especially important because they believe it will make your business more successful.) One popular tradition you might know of is the dancing lion/dragon parades where people wear a dragon costume and parade through the city. Dragons are very representative of Chinese culture and are thought to bring luck to a community. Lions are a symbol of protection.
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For about a week after the first day, most people go visit family and friends. A lot of times people will visit the other side of their family. For example, someone will spend most of the time with their mother’s side of the family during the new year, then during this week, they will go visit relatives of the father’s side.
After that week, most people go back to work. This is around day 8-10. Businesses, restaurants, and stores reopen, and many people leave their hometown to go back to jobs in the city.
Day 15, the final day of Chinese New Year, is the Lantern Festival. On this day, the first full moon of the new year happens. To celebrate, people will light more fireworks, revisit family, eat sweet dumplings (called tangyuan), and participate in the Lantern Festival. People release lit lanterns into the sky to honor dead ancestors. This is called 元宵节.
You can read more here.
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What foods are eaten during Chinese New Year, and what do they represent?
During Chinese New Year, many special foods are eaten, and these are foods that are considered to be lucky and to bring fortune into the new year.
1. Dumplings - represent wealth. Dumplings take hours to make and involve family help. They’ve been eaten for at least 1,800 years and are especially popular in northern China. It is said that the more dumplings you eat during the new year, the more money you will make.
2. Fish - represents prosperity and success. The word “fish” in Chinese sounds like the word “surplus” in Chinese.
3. Glutinous Rice Cake/Nian gao - represents success in your work (more money, better position). 
4. Spring rolls - represent wealth. They get their name because they are most often eaten during the Spring Festival which is CNY. This dish is more popular in eastern and southern China.
5. Oranges, tangerines - represents luck and fortune. This is originally a Cantonese custom, but many people grace their tables with citrus fruits. The word for “tangerine” sounds similar to the word for “good fortune” in Chinese.
6. Longevity noodles - represents longevity. These noodles are longer than usual to represent a person’s long and happy life. This is more commonly eaten in northern China. *It should be noted that these are mostly eaten on birthdays but can be eaten during the NY as well.
7. Sweet rice balls/tang yuan - togetherness in family. This food is eaten during the Lantern Festival, the last day of Chinese New Year. The shape and pronunciation is associated with closeness of the family.
8. Snacks - represent a sweet and pleasant life. Any sweet snack like dried fruit, candy, tanghulu is eaten during this time.
When it comes to food during Chinese New Year, there are superstitions about how foods should be prepared and what makes them lucky. You can read more about them here as well as here.
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What kinds of decorations are put up in houses during the new year? What do the colors represent?
1. Spring/door couplets - These couplets originated in the Shu era. As seen in the picture below, you post these on doors in couples - in Chinese culture, even numbers are seen as good luck. On many of these couplets are written wishes or poems for the new year. Each couplet should have the same rhythm and the same number of words.
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2. Paper cutting - Translated as “window flower,” these intricate, red paper cutting pieces are placed on windows and often represent the zodiac of the new year or other symbolic animals such as fish, dragons, and phoenixes.
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3. Upside down characters/Fortune - Many Chinese people during the new year hang up positive characters such as Fu, which means happiness and good fortune. It is written in calligraphy on a red piece of paper and then put upside down on doors and windows. It is hung upside down because the people want the good fortune to fall down onto them.
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4. Red lanterns - These lanterns push away bad luck and are seen during both the Spring and Autumn Festival. They can be hung on trees, outside houses, etc. There are also many styles - they can come in many shapes and have symbols written on them.
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5. Kumquat trees - As said before, citruses represent good luck and fortune. People place kumquats and citrus fruits on their tables or decorate their homes with small kumquat trees.
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You can read more about decorations here as well as here.
Common colors seen during Chinese New Year are red and gold, but green can also be found.
The color red is not only dominate during Chinese New Year, but it is also very representative of Chinese culture as well. Red signifies fire, good fortune, and happiness. It is representative of good luck, keeps the holiday very joyous, and scares away bad spirits.
Gold or yellow is considered to be a very beautiful color. Gold symbolizes wealth, riches, and prosperity.
Green represents money, harmony, and growth. 
Though these are the most common colors, it should be noted that a color combination of green and red is considered to be tacky in Chinese culture. 
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What do people wear during Chinese New Year?
On the first day, it is traditional to wear new clothes and new accessories as it symbolizes new beginnings. However, there are people who like to wear sentimental accessories to respect and remember their ancestors.
Some people like to wear traditional Qipao/Cheongsam, Tang Suits, and Hanfu, but many people stick to western clothes like skirts, dresses, and pants. There is also a tradition of wearing lucky, red underwear for New Years.
Tang suits are the most popular to wear during the New Year, Qipao is also popular, but it is often too cold to wear during the winter months. Many people are starting to wear Hanfu again to celebrate the new year, but it isn’t widely accepted yet to wear during the new year.
During the new year, people wear a lot of red and gold. It is important to NOT wear mostly white and/or black. These symbolize death, and white is worn at funerals. Anything that is bright, bold, and upbeat should be fine to wear, but you should go for something that is red.
*If you want to wear something that is traditional Chinese for New Years, please make sure you know about cultural appropriation and know how to wear these properly.
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As there is so much information about Chinese New Year, I cannot possibly tell you all about it in one post. It is truly something that you must experience in your lifetime. It is very beautiful, fun, and there are so many things to do and celebrate. I ask you that you please research this more and look at all the beautiful pictures of food, lanterns, fireworks, etc. 
Please stay safe and 新年快乐!
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onenicebugperday · 3 years
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@pumpjin submitted: your western NY regular back again!!
i highly doubt it's clear or close enough for Identification, but i hope you enjoy this peony appreciating friend!!
they gave me my own appreciation for wasps when i saw them and their other friends on the buds!! i had no idea they helped my favorite flowers bloom 🥺
Oohhh peonies are my favorite flower too :) And this wasp friend is lovely! Despite the blurriness, looks like a European paper wasp!
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home-deco-ideas · 2 years
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Picked out some flowers at this cozy greenhouse in western NY via https://ift.tt/qHgCuGX
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