A random thread of absolute randomness...

[LeolaRootStew]

2 hours ago, dljbsp said:

Oleander: The Flower That Symbolizes Hiroshima’s Resilience

 

Hiroshima, Japan—In the wake of the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945, Hiroshima was reduced to ashes, with widespread belief that the city would remain barren for decades due to the intense heat and radiation. Yet, amid the devastation, a symbol of hope emerged: the oleander (Nerium), the first flower to bloom in the city after the attack.

 

The oleander’s unexpected resurgence became a powerful emblem of Hiroshima’s resilience and recovery. In 1973, the oleander was officially designated as the city’s flower, a tribute to its role as a natural survivor and a source of inspiration for a city rising from the ashes.

 

The oleander is well-suited to thrive under difficult conditions, requiring minimal water and adapting to various soil types. These qualities may explain its rapid growth following the bombing. A typhoon that struck the area on September 17, 1945, brought fresh soil and may have further aided the plant’s regrowth, according to Grunge.

 

As Hiroshima Mayor Kazumi Matsui observed during a 2020 peace ceremony, “The oleander reminds us that even in the most extreme adversity, life finds a way forward. Its blossoms encourage us to hope and to persevere.”

 

Today, the oleander is more than a flower; it is a symbol of Hiroshima’s enduring spirit and commitment to peace. The city incorporates the flower into memorial events and public spaces, ensuring its legacy as a reminder of the strength that emerged from tragedy.

 

Contributors:

• Grunge.com, for insights into the scientific resilience of the oleander and historical context.

• City of Hiroshima Official Website, for background on the designation of the oleander as the city’s flower and its role in memorial events.

[dljbsp]

The Sweet Journey of Honey: A Testament to Intelligent Design and Ethical Stewardship

 

Honey, nature’s golden gift, is not only a sweet treat but a marvel of precision and purpose. Its production by honeybees reflects an extraordinary system of cooperation and efficiency, showcasing a design that points to intentionality in nature. Yet, as humans enjoy this natural treasure, questions arise about the impact on the bees themselves. Fortunately, when managed responsibly, honey harvesting can benefit both humans and bees.

 

To create just one pound (0.45 kilograms) of honey, bees collectively fly about 55,000 miles (88,514 kilometers)—more than twice the Earth’s circumference—visiting approximately 2 million flowers. This process involves a series of carefully orchestrated steps that highlight the intricate abilities of these remarkable insects.

 

A Process of Purpose

 

Worker bees, specially equipped with a honey stomach, gather nectar from flowers. This unique organ, separate from their digestive system, allows them to transport nectar without contamination. Upon returning to the hive, bees pass the nectar among themselves, mixing it with enzymes that transform it into honey. The bees then spread the processed nectar across the honeycomb, where they fan their wings to reduce moisture content. Finally, they seal the cells with wax caps, preserving the honey for long-term storage.

 

While this process ensures the survival of the hive, ethical beekeeping practices also ensure that honey harvesting doesn’t harm the bees.

 

Does Harvesting Honey Harm Bees?

 

When done responsibly, honey harvesting does not harm the colony. Beekeepers understand that honey is the bees’ primary food source, especially during winter, and take measures to protect their hives:

• Leaving Enough Honey: Ethical beekeepers leave adequate honey stores—typically 40–60 pounds (18–27 kilograms)—to sustain the bees.

• Providing Alternatives: If more honey is taken than usual, a sugar-water substitute is provided to support the colony.

• Harvest Timing: Honey is harvested at the end of the season, after the bees have built up sufficient reserves.

 

However, overharvesting or neglectful practices can harm the hive, causing stress, starvation, and increased vulnerability to disease. Ethical beekeepers prioritize the health of their bees, ensuring a sustainable relationship.

 

A Design Worth Considering

 

The complex process of honey production—requiring specialized anatomy, cooperative behavior, and precise environmental conditions—seems far more than a product of random chance. For many, it’s a testament to a purposeful Designer, a Creator who imbued even the smallest creatures with remarkable abilities.

 

A Sweet Reminder

 

Honey, enjoyed by humans for thousands of years, serves as more than a sweetener or remedy—it’s a tangible reminder of the intelligent systems within nature. Responsible honey harvesting ensures the well-being of bees, highlights the interconnectedness of life, and preserves this natural gift for generations to come.

 

With every spoonful, we honor not only the dedication of the bees but also the care and wisdom evident in their design—a reflection of the order and purpose woven into the world around us.

[LeolaRootStew]

2 hours ago, dljbsp said:

The Sweet Journey of Honey: A Testament to Intelligent Design and Ethical Stewardship

 

Honey, nature’s golden gift, is not only a sweet treat but a marvel of precision and purpose. Its production by honeybees reflects an extraordinary system of cooperation and efficiency, showcasing a design that points to intentionality in nature. Yet, as humans enjoy this natural treasure, questions arise about the impact on the bees themselves. Fortunately, when managed responsibly, honey harvesting can benefit both humans and bees.

 

To create just one pound (0.45 kilograms) of honey, bees collectively fly about 55,000 miles (88,514 kilometers)—more than twice the Earth’s circumference—visiting approximately 2 million flowers. This process involves a series of carefully orchestrated steps that highlight the intricate abilities of these remarkable insects.

 

A Process of Purpose

 

Worker bees, specially equipped with a honey stomach, gather nectar from flowers. This unique organ, separate from their digestive system, allows them to transport nectar without contamination. Upon returning to the hive, bees pass the nectar among themselves, mixing it with enzymes that transform it into honey. The bees then spread the processed nectar across the honeycomb, where they fan their wings to reduce moisture content. Finally, they seal the cells with wax caps, preserving the honey for long-term storage.

 

While this process ensures the survival of the hive, ethical beekeeping practices also ensure that honey harvesting doesn’t harm the bees.

 

Does Harvesting Honey Harm Bees?

 

When done responsibly, honey harvesting does not harm the colony. Beekeepers understand that honey is the bees’ primary food source, especially during winter, and take measures to protect their hives:

• Leaving Enough Honey: Ethical beekeepers leave adequate honey stores—typically 40–60 pounds (18–27 kilograms)—to sustain the bees.

• Providing Alternatives: If more honey is taken than usual, a sugar-water substitute is provided to support the colony.

• Harvest Timing: Honey is harvested at the end of the season, after the bees have built up sufficient reserves.

 

However, overharvesting or neglectful practices can harm the hive, causing stress, starvation, and increased vulnerability to disease. Ethical beekeepers prioritize the health of their bees, ensuring a sustainable relationship.

 

A Design Worth Considering

 

The complex process of honey production—requiring specialized anatomy, cooperative behavior, and precise environmental conditions—seems far more than a product of random chance. For many, it’s a testament to a purposeful Designer, a Creator who imbued even the smallest creatures with remarkable abilities.

 

A Sweet Reminder

 

Honey, enjoyed by humans for thousands of years, serves as more than a sweetener or remedy—it’s a tangible reminder of the intelligent systems within nature. Responsible honey harvesting ensures the well-being of bees, highlights the interconnectedness of life, and preserves this natural gift for generations to come.

 

With every spoonful, we honor not only the dedication of the bees but also the care and wisdom evident in their design—a reflection of the order and purpose woven into the world around us.

 

[dljbsp]

OK, there are other reasons than what I'm about to share. But it deserve a post of its own.

 

The cracking sound in the knees, often referred to as “knee crepitus,” can occur for various reasons. Here are some common explanations:

1. Gas Bubbles: Synovial fluid, which lubricates the knee joint, contains dissolved gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. When the joint moves, changes in pressure can cause these gases to form bubbles and then collapse or pop, creating a cracking or popping sound.

[just1-4all]

Success with my new 'humane' mouse traps. Sooo happy. Caught 3 in past three days since I started using them.

[dljbsp]

9 minutes ago, just1-4all said:

Success with my new 'humane' mouse traps. Sooo happy. Caught 3 in past three days since I started using them.

@just1-4all Great job on catching them! It’s awesome that you’re aiming for a humane solution. You might also want to check for how they’re sneaking into the house—sealing up cracks, gaps in windows or doors, or other entry points can help stop new ones from moving in.

 

Removing food sources like crumbs, pet food, or accessible trash is another way to make your home less inviting. And just a thought: releasing mice outside in the cold might not be as humane as it seems—maybe relocate them to a sheltered area where they can find food and warmth.

 

Or, you know, a friend’s house—they might love the company! 😄

 

Edited November 20 by dljbsp

[just1-4all]

2 minutes ago, dljbsp said:

Great job on catching them! It’s awesome that you’re aiming for a humane solution. You might also want to check for how they’re sneaking into the house—sealing up cracks, gaps in windows or doors, or other entry points can help stop new ones from moving in.

 

Removing food sources like crumbs, pet food, or accessible trash is another way to make your home less inviting. And just a thought: releasing mice outside in the cold might not be as humane as it seems—maybe relocate them to a sheltered area where they can find food and warmth.

 

Or, you know, a friend’s house—they might love the company! 😄

 

Yeah ... I suppose you're correct on all the above. 🤔 I made sure to seal up all around the new humongous A/C unit we installed this past summer. It's so huge: instead of taking it out when summer passed, I decided to try leaving it in the window. I wrapped it plastic, tied with rope on the outside and taped up vents and any opening, etc. on the inside. But I don't think they were getting in that way. Perhaps through the garage when I leave the door open too long?  One was caught from a trap I put in the garage, two others from traps put in our workshop.

 

Where do they go in winter? I just figured they hole up in a dead tree or something, perhaps hibernate? 

 

They are cute and all ... however, it's those little black things, about the size of a grain of rice, which they inevitably leave behind that prompted action for removal. Seems they poop every couple of seconds—or pretty near continuously all their waking hours. 🙄🤨

[dljbsp]

1 hour ago, just1-4all said:

They are cute and all ... however, it's those little black things, about the size of a grain of rice, which they inevitably leave behind that prompted action for removal. Seems they poop every couple of seconds—or pretty near continuously all their waking hours. 🙄🤨

 

Mice generally urinate more frequently than they defecate, as urine plays a significant role in their communication and territorial marking. 

Get a black light and you'll see what I mean

[just1-4all]

2 hours ago, dljbsp said:

Gas Bubbles

I get gas bubbles whenever I have potato chips in combination with ice cream. But not in my knees. 😮🤓

[just1-4all]

1 minute ago, dljbsp said:

Get a black light and you'll see what I mean

Yikes!!

 

I think I'll just remain blissfully ignorant on that David. 🥴

[Ostria]

So, im lewrning Japanese, and in wanikani i learned the word for heaven, which is てんごく (tengoku). I doubt it, but i hope some people here are atleast knowldgeable in dragon ball z to understand my memorization of this word. I used AI so yeah its a bit janky. Ai didnt understand ten and kept making eight gokus, this was the closest it got before i gave up.

[LeolaRootStew]

4 hours ago, dljbsp said:

OK, there are other reasons than what I'm about to share. But it deserve a post of its own.

 

The cracking sound in the knees, often referred to as “knee crepitus,” can occur for various reasons. Here are some common explanations:

1. Gas Bubbles: Synovial fluid, which lubricates the knee joint, contains dissolved gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. When the joint moves, changes in pressure can cause these gases to form bubbles and then collapse or pop, creating a cracking or popping sound.

 

[Sheep]

13 hours ago, Ostria said:

So, im lewrning Japanese, and in wanikani i learned the word for heaven, which is てんごく (tengoku). I doubt it, but i hope some people here are atleast knowldgeable in dragon ball z to understand my memorization of this word. I used AI so yeah its a bit janky. Ai didnt understand ten and kept making eight gokus, this was the closest it got before i gave up.

 

. . .

I think David @Dages, one of our moderators, would know something about that.

[Dages]

13 hours ago, Ostria said:

So, im lewrning Japanese, and in wanikani i learned the word for heaven, which is てんごく (tengoku). I doubt it, but i hope some people here are atleast knowldgeable in dragon ball z to understand my memorization of this word. I used AI so yeah its a bit janky. Ai didnt understand ten and kept making eight gokus, this was the closest it got before i gave up.

 

Tengoku is more about the classic heaven of christendom.
As JWs, we use "Ten no oukoku" 天の王国 (Kingdom of heaven).
If you want to speak about paradise on earth, you can use "Rakuen" 楽園 

You can sync the WOL with Japanese language to check our vocabulary.

[dljbsp]

This is a hip.

It is the largest joint in the human body. The hip supports your weight, your biggest muscles, and allows for a wide range of motion. Because of your hip, you can sit, walk, run, jump, and dance. It’s so strong that it can bear up to five times your body weight when running, showcasing its incredible durability. The hip is also crucial for balance, helping you stay steady whether you’re simply standing still, walking, or performing exercises that demand stability.

 

The hip is versatile not only in function but in emotion and symbolism. It embodies free will and flexibility. Tight hips, for example, can sometimes be linked to stress, with certain exercises focusing on the hip to relieve tension. If you’re hip, you’re “with it.” You can look hip, be hip, and if you’re not, you can get hip.

 

The hip connects us to life’s essentials. Its design—a perfect ball-and-socket joint housed in the acetabulum—allows for incredible motion while supporting the human frame. Its role in childbirth makes it vital for life itself.

 

Figuratively, the hips often symbolize strength and preparedness. Strengthening the hips can denote getting ready to exert power or face a challenge, as one might brace themselves for a fight or intense labor. Conversely, weakened hips reflect fear, distress, or defeat, as the body’s core strength falters under emotional or physical strain. The imagery of wobbling hips conveys a sense of vulnerability, while girding the hips represents readiness, vigor, and the determination to accomplish challenging tasks, whether it’s a physical endeavor or the numerous responsibilities of daily life.

 

Culturally, the hip takes center stage. You can shoot from the hip, be joined at the hip, or be in someone’s hip pocket. You can live under a hip roof, wear hip boots, and groove to hip-hop. The hip has inspired traditions like dances that emphasize fluid, powerful hip movements. It’s no wonder people yell “hip, hip, hooray!”

 

Whether supporting weight, enabling movement, or symbolizing adaptability, the hip is central to life and expression. From the anatomical to the emotional, the hip truly is the cornerstone of strength, grace, and creativity.

[Old]

4 hours ago, dljbsp said:

This is a hip.

...

 

Whether supporting weight, enabling movement, or symbolizing adaptability, the hip is central to life and expression. From the anatomical to the emotional, the hip truly is the cornerstone of strength, grace, and creativity.

And if you are really hip you might have a custom hip.

 

[Pabo]

15 hours ago, Old said:

And if you are really hip you might have a custom hip.

 

 

My father-in-law has had 3 hip replacements. And no, his name wasn't Jake the Peg

[Witness1970]

On 7/19/2020 at 12:29 AM, Tortuga said:

Did you know that the 4lb tubs of peanut M&Ms are supposed to last more than two days..?

 

I shouldn't have bought so many...🤣

Going back a long way.

 

I am stealing this.  I am going to send it word for word to some friends.

[Witness1970]

On 7/19/2020 at 11:11 PM, Katty said:

Apologies in advance to non native English Speakers:

So

 

Buffalo buffalo Buffalo buffalo buffalo buffalo Buffalo buffalo is a grammatically correct sentence and

 

Police police Police police police police Police police is as well.

 

So I wonder how long a sentence can you make with both the words police and buffalo if the sentence is about Police police policing police bufalloing buffalo for Buffalo wings in buffalo or can you even make that sentence without using any other words???

 

Edit: A ship-shipping shipping ship ships shipping ships is also a sentence so
Maybe the sentence can be

Police police police police  shipping Buffalo Buffalo(as in wings); Police police ship Buffalo Police police....(so many combinations)

Reading those sentences is over my pay grade.  And my first (and only actual) language is English.

[Witness1970]

There are certain threads for jokes for everyone.  Every thread is a joke thread for Tortuga.

 

Makes his posts very enjoyable.

[dljbsp]

1 hour ago, Pabo said:

3 hip replacements

I though we only had 2!!

[dljbsp]

Edgar Allan Poe’s Surprising Seashell Success

 

Most know Edgar Allan Poe as the master of macabre tales and haunting poetry, but few are aware of his unlikely foray into the world of seashells. In 1839, Poe authored The Conchologist’s First Book, a guide to the study of mollusk shells, known as conchology. The book, largely adapted from Thomas Wyatt’s A Manual of Conchology, was revised and simplified by Poe to appeal to American readers.

 

This scientific endeavor was a commercial success, earning the distinction of being the only book under Poe’s name to receive a second printing during his lifetime. It provided much-needed income for the struggling writer and reflected his adaptability in a time when financial stability was elusive.

 

While The Conchologist’s First Book was far removed from the eerie tales of The Raven or The Tell-Tale Heart, it showcased Poe’s versatility and willingness to explore unexpected literary genres. Fans of his work may now see him in a new light—not just as a literary genius of the gothic tradition, but also as an author who made waves in the scientific community of his time.

 

Who knew the master of the macabre also had a soft spot for seashells?

 

[LeolaRootStew]

3 hours ago, dljbsp said:

Edgar Allan Poe’s Surprising Seashell Success

 

Most know Edgar Allan Poe as the master of macabre tales and haunting poetry, but few are aware of his unlikely foray into the world of seashells. In 1839, Poe authored The Conchologist’s First Book, a guide to the study of mollusk shells, known as conchology. The book, largely adapted from Thomas Wyatt’s A Manual of Conchology, was revised and simplified by Poe to appeal to American readers.

 

This scientific endeavor was a commercial success, earning the distinction of being the only book under Poe’s name to receive a second printing during his lifetime. It provided much-needed income for the struggling writer and reflected his adaptability in a time when financial stability was elusive.

 

While The Conchologist’s First Book was far removed from the eerie tales of The Raven or The Tell-Tale Heart, it showcased Poe’s versatility and willingness to explore unexpected literary genres. Fans of his work may now see him in a new light—not just as a literary genius of the gothic tradition, but also as an author who made waves in the scientific community of his time.

 

Who knew the master of the macabre also had a soft spot for seashells?

 

[Pabo]

4 hours ago, dljbsp said:

I though we only had 2!!

 

That would be correct, but he wore one out and it had to be replaced.

Edited November 22 by Pabo

[Friends just call me Ross]

On one of the scanner channels I listen to there is lady dispatcher who doesn't always enunciate her words.

 

She just dispatched an officer to a woman's home.  The woman claimed she believed someone tried to break into her house last night because there was...

 

Here is what I heard her tell the officer:

Spoiler

...damage to her devil. 

 

It took me a moment to realize what she had actually said

 

Spoiler

damage to her deadbolt.

 

73 year old ears that had to endure over 50 years of really loud machinery + a non enunciator = raised eyebrows and a few snickers.