The Oscars Pre-Show Was Giving… But Maybe a Little Too Much

Posted: 4th March 2025 by Jab in Casual, Just Plain Dumb
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If you tuned into the Oscars pre-show on Sunday, you probably noticed the red carpet was absolutely giving. Giving glam. Giving drama. Giving… well, giving giving — over and over again.

It seems like every host, influencer, and fashion correspondent latched onto the word like it was the latest designer clutch. “She’s giving Old Hollywood.” “This look is giving ethereal goddess.” “He’s giving main character energy.” By the end of the night, it felt like the only thing not being given was a break from the word itself.

Language evolves, and cultural catchphrases are nothing new. From “on fleek” to “slay,” social media’s influence on how we talk is undeniable. But the saturation of “giving” at the Oscars pre-show highlighted how quickly a fun, expressive term can turn into a verbal crutch. What started as a playful way to describe vibes and aesthetics became a repetitive loop that dulled the sparkle of the red carpet commentary.

When every outfit is “giving,” the word loses its punch. Zendaya’s effortlessly chic ensemble? Giving. Timothée Chalamet’s bold fashion choice? Giving. Even someone simply standing there, breathing in their tux? Apparently giving. The overuse flattened the nuance of what makes these looks, and the artists wearing them, truly stand out.

Of course, language is meant to be fluid and fun, and pop culture thrives on shared phrases. But maybe next award season, we can expand the vocabulary a bit. Let’s serve some variety. Let’s deliver fresh descriptions. Let’s offer words that reflect the true range of creativity and artistry that the Oscars represent.

Because when words are overused, they stop giving anything at all. And these stars — with their stunning fashion, their bold choices, their moments of pure elegance — deserve so much more than a recycled catchphrase.

What do you think? Is it time to retire “giving” from red carpet lingo, or do you still love the vibe? Let me know in the comments!

Spicy Pork Belly White Chili

Posted: 17th February 2025 by Jab in Recipes
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Blizzard & Blaze

This rich and flavorful white chili features crispy pork belly, white beans, and a spicy kick from jalapeños and green chiles. Perfect for cold days or when you’re craving something hearty with a bit of heat!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb pork belly, diced into small cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed, depending on pork belly fat content)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar (Swerve zero calories)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 jalapeños, diced (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 4 – 5, Dried Serranos
  • 1 jar diced green chiles (Hatch)
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
  • ½ tsp white pepper
  • 1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cans (14.5 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed Great Northern
  • 2 cans (14.5 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed Cannellini
  • ½ – 1 cup heavy cream (or sour cream for extra tang)
  • ½ – 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese (optional, for extra spice & creaminess)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Pork Belly
    • Cut the pork belly into 1 in cubes – and combine with the brown sugar – set aside for 30 – 45 min.
  2. Sear the Pork Belly
    • Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
    • Add the pork belly in batches, and sear until golden browned and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Sauté Aromatics
    • Add the diced onion, jalapeños and garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  4. Season & Add Chiles
    • Stir in the diced green chiles, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne, white pepper, and salt. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
  5. Simmer the Chili
    • Move content into a crock pot – Pour in the chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for 2 – 3 hours
    • Add the white beans and serrano’s . Stir well, continue to cook for additional 4 – 6 hours.
  6. Make it Creamy
    • Stir in the heavy cream (or sour cream) and shredded pepper jack cheese. Cook for another 30 minutes.
  7. Serve & Garnish
    • Ladle the chili into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, extra cheese, or even sliced jalapeños for more heat.

The Danger of Driving Without Headlights

Posted: 30th December 2024 by Jab in Casual
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Have you noticed it too?

Driving through our city at night can feel like navigating an obstacle course, not just because of road conditions or traffic, but because of something far more dangerous: drivers without their headlights on.

It’s a shockingly common issue, and it’s not just an annoyance—it’s a serious safety hazard.

Why Are Headlights So Important?

Headlights aren’t just for you to see the road; they’re equally important for other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists to see you. Here’s why driving without them is so dangerous:

•Low Visibility: At night or during bad weather, cars without headlights blend into the darkness, making them nearly invisible to other drivers.

•Accidents Waiting to Happen: Studies show that vehicles without headlights are far more likely to be involved in collisions because other drivers can’t react in time.

•Breaking the Law: Most states require headlights from dusk until dawn and during any condition where visibility is reduced, like fog or rain.

Why Do People Forget Their Headlights?

The reasons can vary:

•Driver Error: Sometimes, people simply forget to turn on their headlights.

•Auto Settings Misused: Modern cars often have automatic headlights, but drivers may turn off this feature without realizing the consequences.

•Negligence: Some drivers don’t recognize how crucial it is, especially if they can “see” the road using streetlights.

What Can We Do About It?

1.Spread Awareness: Share this post with your friends and family to remind them how vital headlights are for everyone’s safety.

2.Stay Alert: When driving at night, keep an eye out for cars without their lights on. If you notice one, honk briefly or flash your lights to alert the driver.

3.Report Irresponsible Drivers: Chronic offenders need to be held accountable. That’s why I created LicensePlateReports.com.

What Is LicensePlateReports.com?

LicensePlateReports.com is a platform where you can safely and anonymously report dangerous driving behaviors like this. By submitting details, you help create a record of problematic drivers in our community. It’s a small step, but a powerful one, toward improving road safety.

Let’s Make Our Roads Safer Together

Headlights are a simple, yet essential part of safe driving. If more people paid attention to this one detail, countless accidents could be avoided. So, the next time you notice a driver without headlights, don’t just shrug it off—act. Let’s shed some light on this issue and make our city a safer place for everyone.

Head to LicensePlateReports.com to report dangerous driving behaviors today.

Stay safe out there! 🚗✨

Why Stardew Valley is One of My All-Time Favorite Games

Posted: 20th December 2024 by Jab in Stardew Valley
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There’s something magical about a game that can pull you in with its simplicity and keep you hooked with its depth. For me, Stardew Valley is that game. It’s one of those rare gems that feels like a warm cup of tea on a rainy day—comforting, familiar, and endlessly enjoyable.

A Game That Lets You Breathe
From the moment you step off the bus and into Pelican Town, Stardew Valley offers a sense of freedom that’s hard to find in other games. You’re given an overgrown plot of land and told, “Do what you like with it.” Want to plant fields of crops? Go for it. Prefer raising a barn full of animals? That’s cool, too. Feel like skipping the farm altogether and spending your days fishing or mining? Totally fine.

There’s no pressure, no looming deadlines (well, except maybe Grandpa’s evaluation), and no “game over” screen. It’s a refreshing break from the chaos of real life.

Building a Life (and Relationships)
One of my favorite parts of Stardew Valley is the relationships you can build with the townspeople. Each character has their quirks, backstories, and unique personalities. Whether it’s befriending the grumpy George, learning about Linus’s peaceful way of life, or embarking on a romantic journey (Abigail, of course, has my heart), there’s something so rewarding about connecting with the people of Pelican Town. Read the rest of this entry »

Tackling Heights: Painting the Garage Side (and My Fear of Heights)

Posted: 20th December 2024 by Jab in Casual
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Today, I faced a challenge that I knew was coming but had been procrastinating for as long as I could justify: painting the side of our garage. Sounds simple, right? Just a bit of paint, a brush, maybe a ladder. But for me, it came with an added layer of terror—I hate heights.

To set the stage, our garage sits slightly elevated, which means even getting to the side I needed to paint required positioning a ladder just right, battling uneven ground, and pretending I wasn’t picturing every worst-case scenario.

But let me back up. The side of the garage had been looking rough for a while. The paint was peeling, and a few cracks were starting to show. It was one of those “out of sight, out of mind” projects—until you notice it every time you pull into the driveway.

Read the rest of this entry »

Understanding the Weather: More Than Just Sunshine and Rain

Posted: 17th December 2024 by Jab in Casual
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Weather is something we encounter every day, but it’s more than just a casual conversation starter. From the warmth of sunny days to the drama of thunderstorms, weather shapes our plans, moods, and even the natural world. Let’s explore the fascinating forces behind the weather, why it changes, and how it impacts our lives.

What Is Weather, Really?

In simple terms, weather is the state of the atmosphere at a specific place and time. It includes temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind, and atmospheric pressure. While the climate is a long-term trend, weather is what we experience daily—sometimes predictably, sometimes not.

Weather occurs because of complex interactions between Earth’s systems. The sun heats different parts of the Earth unevenly, and the rotation of the planet creates wind patterns. Throw in moisture, air pressure, and elevation, and you’ve got a recipe for constant change.

Read the rest of this entry »

Life Update: Crazy Times with Family and Our Home

Posted: 16th December 2024 by Jab in Casual
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It’s been a while since my last post, and I wanted to give you all an update on why things have been so quiet around here. Let’s just say that life has been a bit of a whirlwind lately—equal parts chaos, decision-making, and a little bit of frustration thrown in for good measure.

The Rollercoaster of Home Selling and Buying

For those of you who have been through the process of selling a home, you’ll understand when I say it’s not for the faint of heart. Our family recently decided to explore the idea of selling our house and finding something new. That meant a flurry of activity—cleaning, organizing, and touching up paint (because apparently, walls take a beating when you’ve got a bustling household).

We even found what seemed like the perfect new home for us. It checked all the boxes, and we were so excited to take the next step. But then came the inspection—and with it, the dreaded word: mold. Not just a minor issue, but a potential hard stop for us.  After much deliberation and sleepless nights, we made the tough decision to walk away.

Staying Put and Embracing Our Space

With that dream house off the table, we took a step back and reassessed. Ultimately, we decided to stay in our current home and invest in making it better for our family. It’s funny how the process of preparing a house to sell can make you fall in love with it all over again. Those little touch-ups and improvements we started doing have reminded us of why this place is special to us.

Now, instead of moving boxes, we’re diving into home projects. From fresh coats of paint to rearranging rooms and tackling long-neglected fixes, we’re putting in the work to make our house feel like home again.

Family Life: The Constant Adventure

Of course, all of this has been happening while juggling the usual craziness of family life. School schedules, extracurricular activities, and day-to-day chaos have kept us on our toes. It’s a lot, but it’s our life, and we wouldn’t trade it for anything (well, maybe just a little more sleep).

Looking Ahead

This experience has given me plenty of inspiration, not to mention a renewed appreciation for making the most of what you have. I’ll also be sharing some of the home improvement projects we’re tackling—stay tuned for those updates!

Thanks for sticking with me during this hectic season. If you’ve ever been through a similar experience or have tips for turning a house into a dream home, I’d love to hear from you in the comments.

Here’s to embracing life’s ups and downs—and making the most of where we are.

Until next time!

The Witcher 4, Borderlands 4, and My Journey Through Borderlands 3

Posted: 16th December 2024 by Jab in Gaming
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Exciting Times for Gamers: The Witcher 4, Borderlands 4, and My Journey Through Borderlands 3

With major announcements and exciting adventures on the horizon, there’s a lot to talk about in the gaming world. Let’s dive into two massive titles that are generating buzz: The Witcher 4 and Borderlands 4. Plus, I’ll share a bit about my recent dive into Borderlands 3.

The Witcher 4: A New Chapter Awaits

Fans of the Witcher series have been eagerly awaiting news about The Witcher 4, and it’s finally happening! CD Projekt Red has confirmed that this next installment will introduce a brand-new saga in the world of monster hunters, sorcery, and intrigue. While Geralt of Rivia’s story may have concluded in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, the rich and immersive world of Andrzej Sapkowski’s universe has so much more to offer.

Details are still sparse, but the teaser hints at a fresh direction for the series, possibly with a new protagonist or even a continuation of Ciri’s adventures. I’m excited to see how the next-gen graphics and gameplay mechanics will evolve in this beloved franchise. If The Witcher 3 set the gold standard for open-world RPGs, imagine what The Witcher 4 will bring!

Borderlands 4: More Mayhem is Coming

Speaking of anticipated sequels, Borderlands 4 is officially in development! Gearbox Software recently revealed that they’re working on the next chapter of their wildly chaotic and hilarious looter-shooter series. After the success of Borderlands 3, expectations are sky-high for what’s next in the zany, cel-shaded world of Pandora and beyond.

Fans are speculating about new Vault Hunters, crazier weapons, and an even bigger storyline. Will we return to familiar planets, or will Borderlands 4 take us somewhere entirely new? Whatever Gearbox has in store, one thing is certain: it’s going to be an absolute blast.

My Journey Through Borderlands 3

While the gaming world looks forward to Borderlands 4, I’ve just started playing Borderlands 3, and let me tell you, it’s been an adrenaline-fueled ride so far. The humor, the characters, the insane variety of guns—it’s everything I’ve loved about the series and more.

I’m a bit late to the party, but it’s been fun to dive back into the madness of Pandora (and other planets!). I’ve already found myself laughing out loud at Claptrap’s antics and marveling at the sheer creativity of the game’s weaponry. If you haven’t played it yet, now is the perfect time to jump in—especially with Borderlands 4 on the horizon.

Looking Ahead

With two major games on my radar, 2024 and beyond are shaping up to be incredible for gamers. Whether you’re eagerly awaiting The Witcher 4, counting down to Borderlands 4, or just exploring the vaults of Borderlands 3 like me, there’s no shortage of excitement.

What games are you most excited about? Have you played Borderlands 3, or are you holding out for the next big thing? Let’s discuss in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Heatmap of Compound Curse Words

Posted: 4th September 2024 by Jab in Stuff I see at work
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Whats your story

Posted: 19th August 2024 by Jab in Funny Pics, Stuff I see at work
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