We found this great video on how to get setup to use the a6000.
Smart Motorcycle Upgrades
Getting a new or used motorcycle is a great feeling, but there are a couple of things you might want to upgrade or change quickly. Your motorcycle needs to be comfortable and safe, and the upgrades you make to it will have both form and function.
Why should you consider motorcycle upgrades?
For beginner riders, you are likely very happy with your purchase and might be on the fence about what you can do in terms of changing some parts. The first motorbike you buy will always have a special place because it is the one that truly lets you cement the love of two wheels and the open road.
There are a few reasons that you should be thinking about upgrades for your bike:
- Your riding style
- The length of time you will ride your bike for (short or long trips?)
- Is it going to be for touring and extensive use journeys?
- The age of the bike you buy (adding mod-cons can lengthen the lifespan)
- Safety
- They are cool (sometimes upgrades are more for the aesthetics)
Tires
There is a much smaller amount of tire holding you to the road when you’re on a motorcycle, and that means you need to invest in the best you can afford. The higher the quality, the better when it comes to tires in general. Tires improve road grip and traction, your ride will be smoother, and you might find you have a little more confidence in your ride.
Rearsets
A rearset is one of the ways that you can make sure your bike is more tailored to your dimensions. Instead of putting yourself into awkward positions or never feeling quite right, a rear set will ensure the bike correctly fits your height. These footpegs are designed for performance and stability, and they look quite cool, too.
But first and foremost, aftermarket options are more adjustable than stock.
Fender Eliminator Kits
Some things are just to make the bike look cooler, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t upgrading. The stock license plate hanger might not bother you; you might not even consider it – until now. But when you know there are street-legal, minimalistic, neat-looking options… things change.
Wheels
Wheels are just as important as tires, and new wheels can quickly change the look and feel of your bike. Wheels are typically worth doing when you are doing the tires. Aftermarket wheels are often a lot lighter, so the bike is generally easier to ride and maneuver.
Windshield
A windshield on a bike can be a big topic of conversation, but there are many benefits to replacing yours. Being wind-whipped at high speed is no fun; small or non-sturdy windshields are just a no. A motorcycle windshield replacement is as much about looks as it is about safety.
Noise-blocking, wind-blocking, reducing debris, and staying dry. It’s a smart upgrade to make.
Seats
Stock seats are made for everyone, which really means they are made for very few people. They aren’t designed to be the most comfortable, but since they are one of the few contact points a rider has with the bike, they need to be something you like. Stock seats are notorious for being thin and hard on most bikes, so a seat upgrade is a good idea if you plan on doing longer rides or just want maximum comfort.
An added benefit of a modified seat is that they can add some height, which means if you’re a shorter rider, you can sit more comfortably. Anyone who likes to push the limits (safely) on their bike should check out performance or track seats.
Lines & Levers
While there are some aesthetically pleasing options, this is more about performance. An aftermarket lever set will give you a more noticeable feedback improvement and a better feel. Consider that just like the seat, this is one of the contact points – it should be exactly what you want, not just ‘close enough.’
Storage
Storage or luggage on a bike can add bulk, so having a box or a pack designed to fit a bike’s shape is a must. Although you still might not be fitting too much on there, aftermarket luggage options tend to be bigger and lightweight.
Tail bags, tanks, and hard cases are highly popular, and even if you’re just using your bike to pick up milk and bread – having somewhere to store it is a must.
Road trips on a motorcycle are a must-do; it is a freeing way to travel, and here are tips to make it even better: Ready for the Road: Guaranteeing a Great Motorcycle Road Trip • Edel Alon.
What is Bard by Google and what can it do?
We’re going to try this out. We received our invitation so we’ll see.
Bard is a large language model (LLM) chatbot developed by Google AI. It is still under development, but it has learned to perform many kinds of tasks, including
- Answering your questions in an informative way, even if they are open ended, challenging, or strange.
- Generating different creative text formats, like poems, code, scripts, musical pieces, email, letters, etc.
- Translating languages.
- Summarizing text.
- Brainstorming ideas.
- Developing plans.
Bard is powered by PaLM 2, a new LLM that is trained on a massive dataset of text and code. This allows Bard to access and process information from the real world through Google Search and keep its responses consistent with search results.
Bard is still under development, but it has the potential to be a powerful tool for creativity, productivity, and learning. It can be used to help people with a variety of tasks, from writing to research to problem solving.
Here are some specific examples of what Bard can do:
- Answer your questions about the world. For example, you could ask Bard “What is the capital of France?” or “How does a car engine work?”
- Generate different creative text formats. For example, you could ask Bard to write you a poem, a code snippet, or a script for a movie.
- Translate languages. For example, you could ask Bard to translate a news article from English to Spanish.
- Summarize text. For example, you could ask Bard to summarize a research paper or a book chapter.
- Brainstorm ideas. For example, you could ask Bard to help you come up with ideas for a new product or a marketing campaign.
- Develop plans. For example, you could ask Bard to help you create a budget or a project timeline.
Bard is still under development, but it is a powerful tool that has the potential to be used for a variety of purposes. If you are interested in trying Bard, you can sign up for the waitlist on the Google Bard website.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about Bard:
- Bard is not perfect. It may sometimes generate inaccurate or inappropriate responses.
- Bard is still under development, so its capabilities are constantly improving.
- Bard is not a replacement for human intelligence. It can be a helpful tool, but it is important to use it critically and to be aware of its limitations.
Overall, Bard is a promising new technology that has the potential to be a powerful tool for creativity, productivity, and learning. If you are interested in trying it out, I encourage you to sign up for the waitlist.
Beginner’s Guide to Sous Vide Cooking
Have you ever wondered how chefs cook their steak to the perfect medium-rare every single time? The secret, my friend, is sous vide cooking! Sous vide cooking is a French cooking technique that involves placing food in a vacuum-sealed bag and cooking it in a precisely temperature-controlled water bath. This cooking method ensures your food is cooked evenly, and it retains all its flavor and nutrients. If you’re looking to up your cooking game, then it’s time to learn how to use sous vide cooking. In this blog post, we will guide you through everything you need to know about sous vide cooking, from buying the equipment to cooking your first meal.
Buying the Equipment
To start this cooking journey, you will need to invest in some equipment, primarily a sous vide machine and a vacuum sealer. The sous vide machine is an immersion circulator that heats and circulates water to a specific temperature. It is essential to buy a high-quality sous vide machine that comes with an accurate temperature control and a timer. The vacuum sealer, on the other hand, ensures your food is tightly sealed in a bag, preventing any air or moisture from entering inside. You can buy a vacuum sealer that is specifically made for sous vide cooking, or you can use a regular vacuum sealer with specialized bags.
Preparing Your Food
Once you have your equipment, it’s time to prepare your food for cooking. Sous vide cooking is versatile and can be used to cook a wide range of ingredients, from vegetables to meats. Before cooking, season your food with any spices or marinades of your choice and then vacuum seal the food in a bag. Make sure the bag is tightly sealed and that there is no excess air inside the bag, which can affect the cooking process. Once properly sealed, you can then store the food in the refrigerator for a few hours before placing it in the water bath.
Cooking Your Food
To cook your food, begin by filling a large pot or container with water and set the temperature on your sous vide machine according to the recipe’s requirements. Once the water reaches the desired temperature, carefully place the sealed bag of food into the water bath. The duration of cooking will vary depending on what you are cooking and how thick the ingredients are. It’s always best to follow a recipe and set your timer accordingly. It’s also worth noting that sous vide cooking takes longer than traditional cooking methods, but the result is well worth the wait.
Finishing Your Food
Once your food has cooked, remove it from the water bath and the vacuum sealer bag and pat it dry with a clean towel or paper towel. For best results, you can quickly sear the food in a hot pan or on a grill to get a crispy exterior. Searing also adds an extra layer of flavor to your dish. The sous vide cooking method ensures the food is fully cooked and moist, so you don’t need to worry about overcooking or undercooking your meal.
Sous vide cooking can seem daunting at first, but with the right equipment and a little practice, it’s a cooking technique that can elevate your dishes to restaurant-quality meals. Remember to follow a recipe and set the temperature according to the ingredients you are cooking. Sous vide cooking is a great way to prepare meals in advance, so you won’t need to stress about dinner when you are entertaining guests. With sous vide cooking, you can relax, knowing that your food is cooking to perfection, and your guests are in for a treat! So get your equipment set up, pick a recipe, and get cooking!
Unleash Your Inner Bard with PIP Deck Storyteller Cards!
Crafting characters, weaving plots, and telling stories that captivate your audience can be a challenging task. But what if we told you that there is a tool out there that can help you keep your narratives fresh, innovative, and engaging? Enter PIP Deck Storyteller Cards – the secret weapon that every bard needs in their arsenal.
PIP Deck Storyteller Cards are more than just a deck of pretty cards. Each one is designed to be a prompt for your creativity, designed to inspire and ignite your imagination. The cards are backed by a system that helps you build your world, characters, and storyline with ease. They come in a pack of 78, each card a rich source of potential story elements. What better way to get your creative juices flowing than giving yourself prompts such as “a broken down car in the middle of nowhere” or “an unlikely team of heroes.” Drawing from personal experiences, these cards encapsulate common human experiences that are easily relatable to everyone.
We’re going to test these out.
The PIP Deck Storyteller Cards are an exciting addition to any storyteller’s toolkit, providing a plethora of prompts and challenges to keep even the most experienced raconteurs on their toes. With endless possibilities hidden in every card, the more you use them, the more you’re rewarded with new narratives and insights. And, not only do these cards drive innovation for writers and creators, but they also create a platform for a community of creators to come together, whether in person or online.
Guide to Shopping Online and Avoiding Grocery Stores
The world has changed drastically due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and we have had to adapt to a new way of life. One aspect that has seen tremendous change is the way we shop for groceries. Social distancing has made going to a physical store risky, and many people are opting for online shopping instead. If you’re new to the world of online shopping, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to begin. However, with a little bit of guidance and some tips and tricks, you can navigate this new way of shopping with ease and even avoid grocery stores altogether. In this article, we will show you how to shop online and avoid grocery stores.
Plan Your Shopping List
Before you start shopping online, it’s essential to plan your shopping list. This will help you avoid unnecessary purchases and ensure you have everything you need. Make a list of all the items you need, and categorize them into different sections of the store, like fruits and vegetables, dairy, and meats. This will help you shop more efficiently online and avoid the temptation of making unnecessary purchases.
Choose a Reliable Online Store
When choosing an online store, reliability is key. We’ve used Amazon Try Amazon Fresh before the pandemic and continue to use it. Consider your options and select one that has a reputation for delivering quality products on time. It’s also important to ensure that the online store is secure and your personal and financial information is safe. Read reviews from other customers to get an idea of their experiences before making your final decision.
Keep an Eye Out for Sales and Discounts
One of the best things about shopping online is that you can easily compare prices from different stores and take advantage of sales and discounts. Keep an eye out for deals, promotions, and coupon codes that can save you money. Many online stores offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount, so try to bundle your purchases and take advantage of these offers.
Schedule Delivery Time
Once you have made your purchases, you may be wondering when they will arrive. Most online stores offer delivery within a specific timeframe, so schedule delivery around your availability. Make sure you will be home during the delivery window or consider having your items delivered to your workplace. If you’re not available at the time of delivery, most online stores have the option to leave your package in a safe place or with a neighbor.
Don’t Forget to Check Expiration Dates
When shopping online, it’s easy to overlook the expiration dates of the products you’re purchasing. Make sure to double-check the expiration dates of items you purchase, especially perishables. This will help you avoid food waste and ensure you’re purchasing fresh, quality products.
Shopping online and avoiding grocery stores can be a convenient and efficient way to get all the items you need without leaving the comfort of your home, especially during these uncertain times. By planning your shopping list, choosing a reliable online store, keeping an eye out for sales and discounts, scheduling delivery time, and checking expiration dates, you can make the most of your online shopping experience. With these tips, you’ll be a pro at shopping online and avoiding grocery stores, making the process seamless and stress-free. Stay safe and happy shopping!
Meg 2: A Disappointing Sequel That Falls Flat
Hey there, fellow movie enthusiasts! ? Today, I’m here to share my thoughts on the highly anticipated sequel, Meg 2. Unfortunately, this is one film that left me feeling more than a little underwhelmed. ?
From the start, Meg 2 fails to capture the same excitement and thrill that made its predecessor so captivating. The storyline feels forced and lacks the depth that made the original so compelling. It almost feels like they were banking on the success of the first film without putting in the effort to create something truly remarkable.
The characters, once vibrant and engaging, seem stale and one-dimensional in Meg 2. It’s as if they’ve lost their charm and are simply going through the motions. The lack of character development leaves you feeling disconnected and uninvested in their journey.
One of the biggest letdowns in Meg 2 is the special effects. While the first film showcased jaw-dropping visuals, the sequel falls short. The CGI appears rushed and lacks the polished look that we’ve come to expect from big-budget productions. It’s a missed opportunity to create a visually stunning experience.
To make matters worse, the pacing of Meg 2 is all over the place. It lacks a cohesive flow, with scenes that drag on unnecessarily and others that feel rushed and hurried. This inconsistency makes it difficult to fully immerse yourself in the story and ruins the overall viewing experience.
Now, I’m not here to bash the film entirely. There are a few redeeming moments scattered throughout, but unfortunately, they aren’t enough to salvage the overall disappointment. It’s clear that Meg 2 fell victim to the dreaded “sequel curse” – an attempt to recreate the magic of the original that ultimately falls flat.
Meg 2 fails to live up to the expectations set by its predecessor. With a lackluster storyline, underdeveloped characters, subpar special effects, and uneven pacing, it falls short in delivering the excitement and entertainment that fans were hoping for. It’s a disappointing sequel that leaves you longing for the greatness of the original.
Have you seen Meg 2? What are your thoughts on the film? Share your opinions below, and let’s discuss! ?? #MovieReview #Meg2Disappointment #SequelCurse
Experience Heaven on a Plate with Zachary’s Award-Winning Pizza
Pizza lovers, for those who haven’t had the pleasure of tasting Zachary’s Pizza, you are completely missing out on heaven on a plate! Zachary’s Pizza is not your average pizza joint: it’s an award-winning, family-owned establishment, famous for its delicious pizza creations. When it comes to pizza, Zachary’s knows how to make it right; the combination of fresh ingredients, skillfully crafted crusts, and unique toppings makes their pizza worthy of all the awards bestowed upon them.
Zachary’s Stuffed Chicago Style pizza is an absolute game-changer. The process of making this pizza is an art form; it involves a deep dish pizza pan, high-quality cheese, fresh toppings, and Zachary’s signature zesty, diced tomato sauce. The result is a heavenly pizza pie with melted cheese sealed in flaky, buttery crust. The best thing about Zachary’s pizza is that you can customize your toppings and sauces, ensuring that you get the perfect slice, every time.
Not everyone is a fan of deep-dish pizzas, and for those who prefer a more traditional pizza, Zachary’s has you covered with their Thin Style pizza. The house-made pizza dough is rolled to a moderate thickness and dusted with cornmeal, and a specially seasoned, hearty diced tomato sauce is applied along with the ingredients you choose. The result is a pizza that’s crunchy, savory, and definitely unforgettable.
Zachary’s Pizza has been racking up pizza awards for over 30 years, with over 225 ‘Best Pizza’ awards to their name. The reason why they win so often is simple: their attention to detail and commitment to quality ingredients. They only use the freshest locally-sourced ingredients for their pizzas, which are always made to order. The attention to detail is evident in every pizza they serve.
Zachary’s menu is not just limited to pizzas; they offer appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and desserts, all carefully crafted to ensure that every bite is as delicious as the last. Some of the mouth-watering dishes available include Garlic Bread, Mac n Cheese, Caprese Salads, Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, and Nutella Pizza. The attention to detail applies to all dishes, and the quality of food is a cut above the rest.
Zachary’s Pizza is absolutely worth a visit for any pizza lover. They consistently deliver pizzas and other dishes that are so much more than food – they are a work of art. The restaurant’s passion for quality ingredients, dedication to detail, and commitment to customer satisfaction is evident with every bite. It’s no wonder that they have won so many awards. The next time you are in the mood for pizza, bypass the chain restaurants, and try something unique and memorable with Zachary’s Pizza. You won’t regret it!
The Story of Claude: A White Alligator at the California Academy of Sciences
Have you ever seen a white alligator? Meet Claude, the albino alligator at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco. Claude might look white, but in reality, it’s because of albinism which causes a complete lack of pigment. This makes him a unique and fascinating creature to observe. If you’re heading to the California Academy of Sciences, add Claude to your list of must-sees and find out more about his captivating story.
Living with Albinism
Claude’s life has been anything but typical. Being an albino alligator brings both advantages and disadvantages. The most significant disadvantage is their inability to survive in the wild because of the lack of camouflage, making them an easy target for predators. Thus, Claude found his home at the Academy, where he’s protected from both predators and under caring supervision. While albinism brings challenges, it can also be fascinating for visitors to witness.
The California Academy of Sciences
The California Academy of Sciences is a science museum and aquarium built in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park. It is the only place in the world where you can find Claude the white alligator. Besides Claude, the Academy offers many more things to see. From the Steinhart Aquarium to the Morrison Planetarium, you can spend a whole day exploring the variety of exhibits, programs, and events at the Academy.
Environmental Education and Sustainability
The Academy is not just a place to observe the wonders of nature; it’s also an educational center that emphasizes sustainability and environmentalism. Their commitment to environmental education extends far beyond their exhibits. The Academy also hosts workshops, courses, and camps for adults and children alike to learn more about sustainability, conservation, ecology, and much more. By visiting the Academy, you’re not only learning about the natural world, but you’re also contributing to a better future.
A Date Destination with a Twist
If you’re looking for a unique date destination in San Francisco, look no further than the California Academy of Sciences. From the amazing shows at the Morrison Planetarium to the exotic animals at the Steinhart Aquarium, the Academy provides an amazing backdrop for a date with a twist. By adding Claude to your itinerary, you’re sure to leave with an unforgettable experience and a story to tell for years to come. Head to their night life!
Claude’s story is one of a kind and what better place to witness it than at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco. Besides Claude, the Academy offers an educational, fun-filled experience that will stay with you forever. Combining education, conservation, and entertainment, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature and sustainability. Whether you’re on a first date or a family outing, the Academy caters to everyone. Don’t miss your chance to meet Claude and discover his incredible story.
Tips for Winning at Your Local Escape Room
Escape rooms are an exciting and challenging way to spend a fun evening with friends, family, and colleagues. Your aim is simple – to solve puzzles, unravel mysteries and ultimately escape the room! However, winning may not always be an easy feat, especially if you’re new to the concept. In this blog, we’ll discuss some of the top tips for winning at your local escape room.
Choose Your Team Wisely
The key to winning an escape room is teamwork. When choosing your team, make sure that everyone has their unique strengths and weaknesses. If your team has a diverse set of skills, they can collaborate to solve any challenge. Additionally, it’s important to have a good mix of thinkers, doers, leaders, and followers in your team.
Communicate Effectively
Communication is key in an escape room. From decoding clues to solving puzzles, you need to talk and listen effectively to your team members throughout the experience. Encourage everyone to speak up when they have an idea, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re struggling. However, it’s important to avoid over-communicating, which can lead to unnecessary confusion and chaos.
Pay Attention to Detail
Escape rooms are all about the details. Every inch of the room is meant to be explored, scrutinized and analyzed. Don’t dismiss anything as insignificant – everything could be a hidden clue or puzzle. Keep track of everything you discover, and if you’re stuck, backtrack and look at things from a fresh perspective. Don’t be afraid to take notes or draw sketches if it helps you.
Work Efficiently
Escape rooms are elaborate, and the clock is ticking. It’s important to work efficiently to solve as many puzzles as possible in the time given. Avoid spending too much time on just one puzzle, and if you’re stuck, move on to something else. If you’re attempting a challenging puzzle, ask your team members for help, but don’t let it eat up too much of your time.
Have Fun
Last but not least, remember to have fun! Escape rooms are meant to be a thrilling and adventurous experience. Don’t let the pressure of winning overwhelm your enjoyment of the game. Keep a positive attitude, be open to new ideas, and enjoy the ride!
In conclusion, winning at an escape room requires teamwork, communication, attention to detail, efficiency, and of course, having fun. With these tips in mind, you’ll be better equipped to tackle any escape room challenge and come out victorious. So, gather your friends, form a great team, and get ready for an exciting escape room adventure.
How to Start Drawing or Painting: Here Are Some Skills to Change Your Life
Are you one of those people who think that drawing or painting is just for artists? Well, you couldn’t be more wrong! Drawing and painting are incredibly therapeutic and can improve your mental health, and there’s no need to be a great artist to get started. The process of creating, whether it’s a sketch or painting, can be a relaxing experience that gives you a break from the stresses of daily life. It can be intimidating to start, but fear not, because we’ve compiled a list of skills to help you get started on your creative journey!
Start with the Basics
The first and most important thing on your drawing and painting journey is to start with the basics. Whether it’s learning to draw lines, explore shapes, or identify color values, you need a strong foundation to build on. You might feel like you’re not making progress at first, but trust us, basic skills are the foundation of success. Try to dedicate some time each day to practice the basics even if it’s for a few minutes.
Practice, Practice, Practice
It’s not enough to learn the basics; you need to practice them constantly. You don’t need to make significant progress every day, but regular and consistent practice will help you develop your skills and make progress. Try keeping a sketchbook, so you have a dedicated place to practice and explore your creative ideas. Remember, it’s not about creating something perfect every time, but more about developing your skills and enjoying the process.
Be Patient with Yourself
It’s easy to get frustrated when your work doesn’t turn out the way you want it to. It’s essential to remember that progress isn’t always fast or linear, especially in artistic endeavors. You need to be patient and remind yourself that everyone starts somewhere. Be kind to yourself and don’t let perfectionism hold you back. Instead, focus on enjoying the process and making progress.
Embrace Mistakes
Mistakes are part of the process, and they’re not a reason to stop creating. Think of mistakes as opportunities to learn and grow. It’s okay if things don’t turn out the way you envisioned them; there’s always an opportunity to correct or try something different. Embrace mistakes as part of the creative process, and you’ll be more likely to enjoy experimenting with new styles and techniques.
Join Communities and Seek Feedback
Once you have some experience, join an online or in-person community of artists or art enthusiasts. Being part of a community is a great way to get feedback on your work, learn from others and get inspired. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback, even if it’s not always positive. Criticism is an opportunity to improve and learn.
Drawing and painting don’t have to be intimidating. Your creative journey starts with small steps, such as practicing basics, being patient, and embracing mistakes. The process of creating through art can be transformational and help you take a break from the mental noise and distractions of daily life. So, what are you waiting for? Get those pencils and paintbrushes out, and start exploring your creativity today!