Thought I change things up a little bit. Why not? For a couple of months, my wife and I have been feeding our younger son baby food. It’s been a challenge.

Normally, I would write about this on my other blog, but it’s down for maintenance and revamping. Truthfully, I don’t know when I’ll bring it online again. All I know is that it will be used again in the unforeseen future in the off chance I go back to the workplace.

I discussed this new blog with family and friends so updating them isn’t a problem. But since my other blog is offline I’m wondering if I should write about being a stay-at-home dad, private investigator, and other topics. I don’t want to limit myself, but I don’t want to do the extra work of copying an article on this blog and pasting it to my other blog.

My best solution is to let the topics come out naturally on paper, type them on the WriteFreely app, and decide whether to publish or not. We’ll see.

Finally, my red Blackwing 746 pencil is about two more inches useable before I throw it into my tiny pencil collection. It’s been a great pencil, but I don’t plan on buying another one soon. And buying a box is out of the question. So what pencil should I use next?

Maybe I’ll use a Blackwing 602 from a box I bought at a discount. More on that later.

#writing #article #babyfood #pencil #privateinvestigator #stayathomedad

28 January 2026

Star in a bag (working title, or maybe Ornament): think I was interested here in trying to fragment in a new way. It seems like the approach was to try to paint like collaging, to allow shapes to overlap while remaining as faithful as possible to the logic I initially perceived in my visual source (a plastic glow-in-the-dark star cloaked by a red Chinese New Year envelope). To cause an incidental explosion or a breakdown from a center or axis and then probe any relationships that materialize beyond the hand. To set something in motion so that forms collide and conjoin and echo as they expand outward. A kind of polyphony. Have been looking at Schwitters a lot this week, particularly his 1925 collage Untitled (Heures crépusculaires). Stacked blocks of muted values and slices of visual information coalescing into gradations of color and thought.

26 January 2026

Last night I reorganized a drawer of ephemera had been piling up in since I moved into my new place. Noting some arrangements and encounters here. Print of the top of a silver spoon protruding from the opened top of a Chinese New Year red envelope, which contained a plastic glow-in-the-dark star. On an envelope that contained a wedding invitation: an ink-stamped snowman overlapping a postage stamp with a pink begonia on it, the word “forever” arcing over the snowman's torso. Pink tissue paper cradling a neon-yellow tennis ball. A program from the Tate with some Cézanne apples on the cover partially obscured by a slightly blurry polaroid from Winchester of a black cat nestled into an angle made by two pieces of wood in the guardrail of a wooden footbridge over a stream.

24 January 2026

Began the day sitting by the window in my room under the white morning sun with my eyes closed. Opened them and a black bird flew by.

I’m thinking that I’ve been a dead fish floating downstream for a long time, but then suddenly I’ve come to life swimming upstream, unable to complain because no words come out of my fish lips, only bubbles, and suddenly I feel the strong current trying to drag me with it, but not me! I swim nimbly with muscular movements and lo and behold even I make it up this waterfall.

I know that that’s where the bears are, I’m not stupid. And yet these dangers must be faced, even though this is just a matter of luck, isn’t it?

It’s just a matter of luck. Being a fish in this example, is also just luck (or lack thereof)

The only real choice was coming alive swimming upstream

And for someone such as me, it wasn’t a choice at all!

The Creative Discipline Behind JZAI: Turning Vision Into Sound

In the world of independent hip hop, talent is only one part of the equation. What truly defines an artist over time is discipline, clarity of vision, and the ability to transform ideas into consistent creative output. The project behind JZAI is built on this principle: music is not just inspiration—it is structure, focus, and long-term commitment.

Behind every release, every concept, and every step forward, there is a process designed to turn creativity into something sustainable.

Creativity as a Daily Practice

Many people think creativity appears in moments of inspiration. In reality, for an independent artist, creativity is a habit. The work behind JZAI is based on the idea that artistic growth comes from repetition, observation, and constant refinement.

Writing lyrics is not only about expression, but about clarity of thought. Each idea is developed with intention, focusing on themes such as:

personal evolution

mental resilience

self-discipline

ambition and long-term thinking

navigating challenges with perspective

Instead of chasing trends or external expectations, the creative process starts internally. The goal is to produce music that feels honest, focused, and aligned with a consistent artistic direction.

From Concept to Track

Every song within the JZAI project begins with a concept. Sometimes it comes from a personal experience. Other times it comes from a mindset, a question, or a moment of reflection.

The process typically follows three stages:

1. Idea development Defining the message or emotional tone behind the track.

2. Writing and structure Building lyrics that balance storytelling, rhythm, and clarity.

3. Sound direction Choosing production that supports the mood and reinforces the identity of the project.

This structured approach allows each release to feel intentional rather than improvised. Over time, it also helps build a recognizable sound and narrative style.

The Importance of Consistency

One of the biggest challenges for independent artists is consistency. Without the structure of a label or management team, progress depends entirely on personal discipline.

For JZAI, consistency means:

continuing to write, even without immediate releases

improving technical skills over time

maintaining a clear artistic direction

showing up regularly in the creative process

Growth in music rarely comes from sudden breakthroughs. It comes from steady effort and long-term focus.

Building Identity Through Sound

In today’s music landscape, listeners have access to unlimited content. What makes an artist stand out is not volume, but identity.

The sound behind JZAI is shaped by a few core principles:

emotional authenticity

modern but timeless production choices

balance between introspection and energy

coherence across releases

The objective is not to follow a single trend, but to develop a sound that evolves while remaining recognizable.

Identity is built track by track, decision by decision.

Independence as a Creative Advantage

Operating as an independent hip hop artist brings challenges, but it also creates opportunities. Without external pressure to follow commercial formulas, the project can grow at its own pace.

This independence allows:

full control over creative direction

flexibility in release strategy

freedom to experiment and refine

a stronger connection between artist and audience

For JZAI, independence is not a limitation—it is a foundation for authenticity and long-term sustainability.

The Role of Mindset

Behind the music, there is a strong focus on mindset. The philosophy of the project is based on a simple idea: growth happens through discipline, patience, and self-awareness.

This perspective influences both the creative process and the long-term strategy. Instead of measuring success only through numbers or short-term attention, the focus remains on:

improvement over time

building a solid body of work

developing a professional presence

creating lasting value

In a fast-moving industry, mindset often becomes the difference between temporary visibility and long-term progress.

Looking Forward

The JZAI project continues to evolve with a focus on sustainability and gradual expansion. Future steps include new releases, deeper sound development, and a stronger digital presence across platforms.

Each stage is part of a larger vision: building a career that grows steadily, without losing creative integrity.

Discipline, Vision, and Long-Term Growth

Hip hop has always been rooted in self-expression, but the modern independent landscape requires more than passion. It requires structure, consistency, and strategic thinking.

The work behind JZAI reflects that balance—creative freedom supported by discipline and long-term vision.

Because in independent music, success is not just about making noise.

It’s about building something that lasts.

Building an Independent Path in Hip Hop: The Vision Behind JZAI

In today’s music industry, being an independent artist is both an opportunity and a challenge. Technology has opened doors that didn’t exist before, but it has also created a highly competitive environment where visibility, consistency, and identity matter more than ever.

The project behind JZAI was born from a simple idea: create music that reflects real experiences, personal growth, and a long-term vision, without compromising authenticity.

This is not just about releasing songs. It’s about building something meaningful over time.

More Than Music: A Long-Term Mindset

For many artists, the focus is on quick exposure or viral moments. While visibility is important, the foundation of JZAI is different. The goal is to develop a sustainable career based on consistency, discipline, and identity.

Hip hop has always been a culture of expression and storytelling. For JZAI, music is a space to explore themes such as:

personal growth

resilience and mindset

self-awareness

ambition and purpose

the process of building something from the ground up

Each track is part of a larger journey, not just a standalone release.

The Power of Independence

Being an independent hip hop artist means taking responsibility for every aspect of the project. From writing and creative direction to branding and digital presence, independence requires more than talent—it requires strategy.

The decision to remain independent is intentional. It allows:

full creative control

a clear artistic identity

long-term flexibility

direct connection with listeners

In a world driven by trends, independence makes it possible to stay focused on authenticity rather than short-term attention.

Building a Digital Presence

Today, an artist’s career exists as much online as it does in the studio. Visibility is no longer limited to radio or traditional media. Platforms, portfolios, and digital publications play a critical role in shaping an artist’s reputation.

Part of the JZAI vision is to build a strong and consistent digital footprint that reflects professionalism and growth. This includes:

music distribution across streaming platforms

professional artist profiles and portfolios

written content that shares the vision behind the project

strategic online presence focused on long-term positioning

The goal is simple: when people search for JZAI, they find a clear, credible, and evolving artistic identity.

Authenticity in a Fast-Moving Industry

The modern music landscape moves fast. Trends come and go, sounds change, and attention spans are short. In that environment, the most valuable asset an artist can have is authenticity.

For JZAI, authenticity means:

writing from real experience

staying consistent with the artistic vision

avoiding shortcuts that compromise identity

focusing on growth instead of comparison

Success is not defined by a single moment, but by the ability to evolve while staying true to the original purpose.

Looking Ahead

The journey of JZAI is still in progress, and that’s exactly the point. The project is designed to grow step by step, with a focus on sustainability rather than speed.

Future plans include:

new music releases

expanded digital presence

collaborations with other artists and creators

reaching broader international audiences

Every step is part of a long-term strategy built around consistency, learning, and continuous improvement.

A Project Built to Last

Hip hop has always rewarded those who stay real and stay committed. The vision behind JZAI is grounded in that philosophy: build slowly, stay authentic, and let the work speak over time.

This is not about chasing trends. It’s about building a voice. A presence. A legacy.

And this is only the beginning.

弁当クラブという部活動を、もう10年続けている。 とはいえ部員は2人だけで、高校のときに知り合った親友だ。

活動内容は、毎週土曜にそれぞれ弁当を作ってきて、公園にレジャーシートを広げ、互いの弁当を見せ合い、食べ合い、そして本気で評価し合うというものだった。

最初の頃は「正しい温度の弁当」という基準を作り、 「正しいそぼろ弁当」や「正しい唐揚げ弁当」を作っては、 うんうんと2人で満足げに頷いていた。 だが10年も続ければ、いつの間にか2人にしか良さが分からない創作弁当になっていた。

「ははは、海苔が襲いかかってきたぞ」なんて笑い合っていたとき、 野球ボールがコロコロと転がってきた。

「すいません！」と、小学生が走ってくる。 ボールを拾って投げ返すと、「それ、美味そうっすね」と言う。

「食べる？」とウインナーを分けてやると、 「めちゃ美味いっす！」と礼を言って、また練習に戻っていった。 最近の子にしては、こんな訳の分からない大人にビビらない、いい子だと思った。

翌週、また弁当を見せ合う日がやってきた。 弁当箱を開けた瞬間、俺は固まった。 あいつは、とんでもないものを作ってきたのだ。

たこさんウインナーだ。

「おいおい、これ絶対あの子に食べさせたいだけだろ」と俺が言うと、 「いや別に」とそっけなく返される。

「俺とお前だけの時間だろ、これは。 これからも、俺とお前だけが喜ぶ弁当を作ろうぜ」と言うと、 あいつは少し黙ってから言った。

「実はな……1年くらい前から、人に食べてほしい弁当を作りたいって思うようになってたんだ」

なんともくだらない。 人が食べるための弁当だって？ 弁当のための弁当を作れよ、と心の中で思ったが、 自分でも変なことを言っている自覚があったので、強くは言えなかった。

その日は結局、あの子は来なかった。 不貞腐れながら帰ろうとしたとき、 「来週もやるよな？」とあいつが言う。

「……別にやるけど」と、不機嫌なまま返事をして、その日は終わった。

Cubicle 7 Entertainment is celebrating 40 years of Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay with 40% discount on all their titles. They are currently offering the following First Edition materials:

• WHFE01 Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay 1E
• WHFE02 The Enemy Within Part 1: Shadows Over Bögenhafen
• WHFE03 The Enemy Within Part 2: Death on the Reik
• WHFE04 The Enemy Within Part 3: Power Behind the Throne
• WHFE05 The Enemy Within Part 4: Something Rotten in Kislev
• WHFE06 The Enemy Within Part 5: Empire in Flames
• WHFE07 Marienburg: Sold Down the River
• WHFE08 Middenheim: City of Chaos
• WHFE09 Apocrypha Now
• WHFE10 Doomstones Part 1: Fire in the Mountains
• WHFE11 Realms of Sorcery
• WHFE12 Warhammer Companion
• WHFE17 Doomstones Part 2: Blood in Darkness
• WHFE18 Doomstones Part 3: Death Rock
• WHFE19 Doomstones Part 4: Dwarf Wars
• WHFE20 Castle Drachenfels

WHFE01 Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay is worth picking up to plunder for rules (e.g. alignment, critical hits, magic, magic items, religion), while WHFE08 Middenheim: City of Chaos makes for a nice corrupt regional capital.

#Sale #WFRP

You can’t love someone who doesn’t want to be loved.

At first, it was a saying, a reminder for me to be open, and that I could easily fall pray to my old habits of being a love vampire myself.

This is important to keep in mind when opening yourself up to someone else too. Allow yourself to be met where you can meet yourself.

If they are unwilling to meet you where you are willing and open to meet yourself, what’s the point?

You will have to learn your lesson again and again. You will meet the same person again and again.

If they don’t stay, they are not your person. They are just another lesson, yet another love vampire, living in a fantasy world.

They would rather run in circles around you and in their heads than live out the present with you, where they inevitably must meet themselves.

Today I had this dust cloth sticking out of my back jeans pocket. While I was cleaning sexily.

Later the same day when at the grocery store I saw this sausage type of meat pressed into the shape and form of a teddy bear, you know? For children…

Much like the HP inkjet printer, this too I think of as an object of pure evil.

The sadistic smile of this teddy bear made of thousands of pig carcasses like taken from a nightmare !!

Papaya Soap for Skin Allergy: A Natural Remedy for Healthier Skin

Skin allergies are a common concern affecting people of all ages. They can be triggered by various factors such as pollution, harsh chemicals, weather changes, food reactions, or certain skincare products. Symptoms like itching, redness, rashes, dryness, and irritation can make daily life uncomfortable. As more people look for gentle and natural solutions, papaya soap has gained attention as a soothing and skin-friendly option. Known for its rich nutrients and skin-repairing properties, papaya soap is widely used as a natural remedy for skin allergies.

This article explores how Papaya Soap works, its benefits, and why it is considered a helpful choice for sensitive and allergy-prone skin.

What is Papaya Soap?

Papaya soap is a skincare product made using papaya extract, particularly from ripe or raw papaya fruit. Papaya contains an enzyme called papain, along with vitamins A, C, and E, which are known for their skin-healing and nourishing properties. When used in soap form, these natural compounds help cleanse the skin gently while supporting repair and hydration.

Unlike chemical-based soaps that may worsen allergic reactions, papaya soap is often made with natural ingredients, making it suitable for people with sensitive skin conditions.

How Papaya Soap Helps with Skin Allergies

Skin allergies often occur when the skin reacts to irritants or allergens. This leads to inflammation, itching, and dryness. Papaya soap works in several ways to help reduce these symptoms and promote healthier skin.

First, papaya contains papain, a natural enzyme that helps remove dead skin cells without being harsh. This gentle exfoliation can help unclog pores and reduce irritation caused by buildup on the skin. By keeping the skin clean and fresh, papaya soap can help prevent further allergic reactions.

Second, the vitamins in papaya play an important role in healing. Vitamin C supports skin repair and helps reduce redness, while vitamin A encourages skin renewal. Vitamin E helps moisturize the skin and protect it from damage. Together, these nutrients help soothe irritated skin and speed up recovery.

Third, papaya soap has mild anti-inflammatory properties. This can help calm itching, swelling, and discomfort associated with skin allergies. Regular use may provide relief and improve the skin’s natural barrier.

Benefits of Papaya Soap for Allergy-Prone Skin

Papaya soap offers several advantages for people dealing with skin allergies or sensitivity:

Gentle Cleansing: It cleans the skin without stripping away natural oils, which is important for maintaining skin balance.

Reduces Itching and Irritation: Natural enzymes and vitamins help soothe irritated skin and reduce itching over time.

Supports Skin Healing: Papaya’s nutrients promote faster healing of damaged or inflamed skin.

Improves Skin Texture: Regular use can help remove dead skin cells and make the skin smoother and softer.

Natural Moisturizing Effect: It helps prevent dryness, which is a common issue in people with allergies.

Free from Harsh Chemicals: Many papaya soaps are made with natural ingredients, reducing the risk of further reactions.

Suitable for Different Types of Skin Allergies

Papaya soap can be helpful for mild skin allergy conditions such as:

Itchy skin caused by dryness

Mild rashes due to environmental factors

Skin irritation from dust or pollution

Sensitivity to certain soaps or skincare products

Uneven skin tone after allergic reactions

However, for severe allergies, infections, or long-term skin conditions, medical advice is always recommended before trying new products.

How to Use Papaya Soap Safely

To get the best results, it is important to use papaya soap properly and gently.

Start by wetting your skin with lukewarm water. Rub the soap between your hands or directly on the skin to create a soft lather. Apply it gently to the affected areas and leave it on for about 30 seconds to one minute. This allows the natural enzymes to work without causing irritation. Rinse thoroughly and pat the skin dry with a soft towel.

Follow up with a mild moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. Using papaya soap once or twice a day is usually enough for most people.

Before regular use, it is wise to do a patch test. Apply a small amount of lather to a small area of skin and wait for 24 hours. If there is no redness or irritation, it is likely safe to use.

Why Natural Soaps Are Better for Sensitive Skin

Many commercial soaps contain strong fragrances, artificial colors, and harsh chemicals that can trigger allergies. These ingredients may strip the skin of its natural oils and weaken its protective barrier.

Papaya soap, especially when made with natural ingredients, is usually free from such irritants. It works gently and supports the skin’s natural healing process. This makes it a better option for people who experience frequent skin reactions.

Additional Skin Benefits of Papaya Soap

Beyond helping with allergies, papaya soap offers other skin benefits that make it popular among users.

It can help brighten the skin by removing dead cells and promoting new cell growth. Over time, this may reduce the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone. It also helps keep pores clean, which can reduce the chances of acne and breakouts.

For people with rough or dry skin, papaya soap can provide a softening effect, making the skin feel smoother and more refreshed.

Who Should Use Papaya Soap?

Papaya soap is generally suitable for:

People with mild skin allergies

Individuals with sensitive or dry skin

Those looking for a natural skincare solution

People who prefer herbal or chemical-free products

It is suitable for both men and women and can be used on the face and body. However, those with very sensitive skin should choose a mild formulation without added fragrances.

Precautions to Keep in Mind

While papaya soap is natural, it may not suit everyone. Some people may be sensitive to papaya enzymes. If you notice increased redness, burning, or itching after use, stop using the soap immediately.

Avoid using papaya soap on open wounds, severe rashes, or infected skin unless advised by a healthcare professional. Overuse may also lead to dryness, so it is important to balance cleansing with proper moisturizing.

Choosing the Right Papaya Soap

When selecting papaya soap for skin allergies, look for products that contain natural papaya extract and minimal artificial additives. Soaps that include moisturizing ingredients like coconut oil, glycerin, or shea butter can provide extra comfort for dry and irritated skin.

Reading ingredient labels and choosing trusted brands can help ensure a safe and effective experience.

Conclusion

Papaya soap is a gentle and natural skincare option that can help manage mild skin allergies and sensitivity. With its rich content of enzymes, vitamins, and antioxidants, it works to cleanse, soothe, and repair the skin. Regular use may reduce itching, irritation, and dryness while improving overall skin health.

Although it is not a replacement for medical treatment in severe cases, papaya soap can be a supportive addition to daily skincare routines. By choosing a quality product and using it properly, individuals with allergy-prone skin can enjoy a natural way to keep their skin clean, calm, and comfortable.

zonovergoten

Ik zit in een baan om de zon ben een jaar onderweg voor ik weer op dezelfde plek kom elk rondje maal ik met iedereen mee te land in de lucht en op zee bij iedereen in de atmosfeer neemt al het goede zijn keer en al het andere evenzeer ik zou willen dat het niet zo was maar ook ik draai mee om eigen as net als ieder kind in elke klas elke vogel in zijn nest van noord naar oost van zuid naar west elke koe op stal iedere muis in de val elke kat voor het raam ieder wezen zonder naam massaal in het reusachtig draaiend rad keren en draaien om het eigen gat zowel de levenden als de dooien of we nu hoge of lage ogen gooien wel of niet zitten klooien de oranje, de groene en de rooie de lelijken, goeien, slechten en de mooie het herdertje, de rammen en de ooien hetzelfde blokje aan onzichtbaar spit rondom de grote hittepit als halve garen rondom draaien terwijl dat roekeloze vuur blijft laaien en wij maar maaien eerst de ene kant dan de andere die golf beweging zal niet verandere sommigen keren in de duisternis anderen in het volle licht sommigen mensen gaan lekker rond anderen voelen zich ertoe verplicht de ene gang valt zwaar op de maag een ander maaltje vederlicht het is maar of je er om maalt of niet of je de lol van het ommetje in ziet zo ja dan heb je het diploma behaald zo niet dan wordt het een moeilijk verhaal

I’ve completed one month with Debian stable. It sounds dramatic, but it’s actually been a positive experience.

Switching from a rolling release like openSUSE Tumbleweed was quite a change, but I’ve really come to like the stable foundation Debian offers.

Some software is a few versions older—which isn’t a big deal—but there are also things that aren’t (or aren’t yet) available in the Debian repositories.

But for that, there’s Flatpak, which I trust more than random third-party repositories.

Right now, my only issue is that my custom-built AMD PC occasionally and very rarely freezes. I’m on the case, though, and I actually suspect it’s a third-party program that doesn’t come from the Debian repo.

On the bright side of committing to Debian for a year, I’ve now got a solid backup strategy in place with Déjà Dup, Timeshift, and Dotdrop. Thanks to that, reinstalling the system is a breeze – especially helpful since I tend to tinker more than a lot!

Since I’ve still got 11 months with Debian ahead of me, one of my current projects is learning how to create .deb packages. The Debian documentation is excellent—but also quite complex!

But my first attempt with rofi 2.0 was a success—so maybe in 11 months, I’ll have my own repo! ;)

All in all: A positive experience in the first month and a happy outlook for the next 11 months with Debian. Beyond the technical aspects, there’s also the good feeling of being on the right side.

Researchers recently discovered a 67,800 year-old piece of cave art in Indonesia which predates humans' migration to the European continent. My first reaction upon learning of this was of awe. Imagining early humans trekking across the globe, the vast unknown before them, is incredible. This discovery provides us with greater insight into human history, and how we came to occupy every corner of the planet.

The piece of this discovery that intrigued me the most was the cave painting itself. This piece of art, left behind by our ancestors thousands of years ago, is all that's left of their presence on the island. The art they created was a marker to the world of their existence.

The reason this aspect of the story resonated so much with me is because of our current relationship with art and the value we put on it. In our increasingly culturally-corrosive, late-stage capitalist society, the value of art is measured in “likes” and online virality. What we're losing when we don't bring our art into the real world is the impact it has on creating community. The collective, communal experience of art is something that I worry we will lose sight of in our online, isolating society.

What we leave behind, what marks our passage through time, is the art we physically create and share in the real world. I believe it's important to continue to create art and share it out in the real world. Zines, graffiti, CDs, paintings, are all physical pieces of art that can be shared in community and mark our presence in the real world.

Strive to create modern-day cave paintings, because they may be all that remains to mark our time on Earth.