A post shared on social media purports that Tennis star Serena Williams died in a car crash recently. Verdict: False Williams has been active on Instagram since the claim has been made. Fact Check: Tennis player Naomi Osaka has chosen to work with Williams’ former coach Patrick Mouratoglou and has since won a match at the China […]

Goldman's controversial remarks were made in November 2023, predating any assassination attempt

'I’m going to tell you for a moment a story of two New Yorkers'

She will forever be remembered as a true gem in the entertainment industry

Vice President Kamala Harris and her campaign claimed multiple times that former President Donald Trump lost 200,000 manufacturing jobs before the COVID-19 pandemic started. Vice President Harris: Almost 200,000 manufacturing jobs were lost under Trump before the pandemic. That makes Donald Trump one of the biggest losers ever on manufacturing pic.twitter.com/ZsjonenEuX — Kamala HQ (@KamalaHQ) […]

'We were totally unfamiliar with the group'

'They all speak in platitudes'

'I'll do everything I possibly can to be ready'

Books Terry Pratchett Book Club Terry Pratchett Book Club: The Shepherd’s Crown, Part III My turf. My feet. My boots. My way… By Emmet Asher-Perrin | Published on September 27, 2024 Comment 0 Share New Share It’s been nearly ten years since the final Terry Pratchett book made its way into the world… Summary Tiffany brings Nightshade to her parents’ barn and begins teaching her how to behave around people. At first Nightshade thinks of trying to use her old glamour and tricks, but she quickly realizes that won’t work and wants to know why Tiffany would help her. Tiffany tries to explain the ways in which humans are different from elves. Magrat can sense the elves returning, so she hands the kids over to Verence and gets on her old broomstick to go see Tiffany, letting her know that they’re going to need a lot more witch help to stave off what’s coming. She suggests that she could go speak to Letitia to encourage her to commit a bit more to the witching side of being a baroness, which Tiffany appreciates. Elves steal baby Tiffany, and so Tiffany comes to the girl’s rescue, killing the elves, and then worrying over the fact that she committed murder to save the infant. She then brings the baby home and again tries to impress upon the parents that they must take care of their daughter. Distraught, Tiffany goes to Nanny and talks with her about what she just did. Nanny suggests that she go to the Long Man to talk to the King of the elves. The Feegle join her, and Tiffany tells them to guard the entrance to the cave so no one can follow her in. Tiffany talks to the King of the elves, who doesn’t seem to care about his people invading the human world. He tells Tiffany to kill them if she’s so inclined, as he’s bored and in search of new entertainment. Tiffany asks Rob to build him a shed like Geoffrey’s suggestion to the Lancre men, for entertainment. She keeps teaching Nightshade about humanity, encouraging her to practice empathy and help others, taking her on the witching rounds. Geoffrey visits Mr. Sideways, and learns that he’s building some sort of machine in his own shed. Magrat has a talk with Letitia and points out that no matter what Letitia thinks of her own abilities, she is a witch and she needs to be willing to help out Tiffany and the rest with the elf problem. She asks Letitia if she needs a lift to the witch’s meeting to discuss the problem. Tiffany goes to see old Mrs. Pigeon and in taking some of her pain away causes a ruckus at the house. She asks Nightshade to stay with her a moment, and then asks her to take a glamour off the family’s stream. Nightshade agrees to do this because she is Tiffany’s friend. Geoffrey finds out that Mr. Sideways is making weaponry in his shed, and advanced weaponry at that. The war council of witches commences at Lancre castle, and Tiffany has Geoffrey do his calm-weaving so that fights don’t break out among the group. She tells them that the elves are coming and that most of them have never fought elves, so they don’t know what to expect. Tiffany asks Nightshade to put a glamour on the group so that they know what it feels like—it makes them feel worthless and small, all except for Mrs. Earwig, who is totally unaffected. Nightshade claims it was like trying to glamour a wall and wonders if she isn’t an elf somehow. She tells the group that the elves will attack during the full moon (that night), a time of endings, and do it where the barriers are weakest. This means that they need to defend both the Dancers in Lancre, and the Chalk as well, so the group is split. Tiffany heads home to get some rest and finds herself talking to the the shepherd’s crown, who tells her that she is a first among shepherds. She feels the specters of Granny Aching’s dogs, Thunder and Lightning. Everyone wakes in the night as the attacks begin. The Lancre group stops Lord Lankin with the swarf weapon from the old men and witches every which way. The fight on the Chalk is fierce, with Miss Tick and the Feegle and Letitia all working in concert, but they’re still losing. Tiffany goes to face Peaseblossom, but Nightshade stands between them to fight for her friend. Peaseblossom is disgusted by the concept and slays her. Tiffany is furious, but a glamour almost pulls her under until she remembers her connection to the land and acts as a conduit for it. She cleanses the Chalk of the elf world and calls the King of the elves to her. He wonders about how the world has changed and respects Tiffany now, cutting down Peaseblossom without a thought. She commands the king to leave, as he wonders if trains couldn’t be built without iron. The witches gather after the battle, and Tiffany decides that Geoffrey will take up Granny Weatherwax’s steading, as she belongs on her own land. None of the witches protest. Geoffrey is also made an ambassador to Lancre so that he can go home and show up his father, letting the man know that he’s been selected to do the first trial run for a fox-proof chicken coup, so there will be no need for the hunt anymore. Tiffany goes to the local carpenter and asked him to teach her his trade because she means to rebuild Granny Aching’s hut. She manages it, and sees Granny Aching and Granny Weatherwax together with Thunder and Lightning, and knows that Granny Weatherwax is everywhere. Her father comes to visit her up the hill and is pleased with the steading. The carpenter visits and is impressed by her work. Commentary And so, the final words of the Discworld are: Mr. Block looked at her suspiciously for a moment. “So did you use magic to make the hut, miss?”“I didn’t have to,” said Tiffany. “The magic was already here.” Gonna sit with that one for a minute. And cry for a while. In many ways the series began with that thought, didn’t it? About how you couldn’t use magic to solve your problems because it was more trouble than it was worth. That thought slowly morphed over to time to remind us that you couldn’t simply make things happen with magic—but it was still all around us. In simple things that we often take for granted. And he made sure to end three decades of work on that thought. For no reason at all, I’m sure. I have a very different perspective on the book this time around, I’ve realized. In some ways, I’m almost glad that it isn’t entirely finished the way Pratchett would have liked? Because it gives us a small window into his process, in a way, a suggestion of how he drafted and where he went back over spots to punch them up. I found myself marking out places where I assumed he wanted to add more, or change a turn of phrase, and it’s so incredibly useful, while being something we rarely see from authors we love. Perhaps not the best for the ego, but so good for educational purposes. There are a few consistent messages within your average Pratchett story that make their way poignantly into this book because they’re not in focus at all, but they still need to be there. The one that comes to mind the most for me is little Maggie, one of the girl Feegles, insisting that she doesn’t want to be a kelda, she wants to fight beside her brothers. Without making that into a key plot point, Maggie simply shows up in the battle agains the elves and it’s noted with triumph. As these stories have constantly shown us, you can’t stop progress. Some will try, and then the world will give way and change, and they’ll be left behind. So Geoffrey is a witch and Maggie will be a warrior and the Chalk isn’t going to burn witches ever again and elves are going to leave the world and head somewhere a little less dangerous because there’s no room for them. The world will change and will, largely and hopefully, be the better for it. And then you’ve got the occasional one-liner that tackles you out of nowhere, like this bit from Nanny Ogg following the battle, and her thought that maybe it’s good for them to fight the elves now and again (in order to remember how to fight): “And at the end of time, living is about fightin’ against everything.” Oh. But we’ve read these books, and we know Nanny (and Pratchett by extension) doesn’t mean anything so simple as fighting against other people. We’re spending our lives fighting indifference and small-mindedness. Fear and ignorance. Ego and loneliness. And all those other little things like apathy and fatigue and injustice and pain and insignificance and authority and time… I think Terry Pratchett spent his life fighting all those things. And maybe he wanted us to know that we could spend our lives doing that, too. Tiffany Aching had two grandmothers who taught her everything she knows. The result of which is a life that will be lived in an attempt to leave the world a little better than she found it. Her anger makes her strong and powerful, and she can learn anything she sets her mind to. Her home fortifies and anchors her. She knows where she’s needed. Her future is unwritten—as are all of our futures—but it’s a good start. Asides and little thoughts There’s a bit in here where Tiffany thinks of how fed up she is with being young, and the footnote for that thought mentions that she will surely grow out of this if she lives long enough. Thing is, of course you do grow out of it, but it doesn’t matter in the same way—saying this as a person who always hated being ‘young.’ Sure, being older comes with its own (ridiculous) baggage, but not wanting to be young is often about dismissal and the assumption of ignorance due to lack of experience. Which is hilarious, considering how much so many children go through. The most obvious sign that Granny was supposed to be in the cat for the duration of the book is the fairy king’s reaction to finding You in his realm. He only shouts the cat’s name, but… he’s definitely not talking about the cat. Nanny Ogg’s cookbook being called A Lot of What You Fancy Makes You Fat, is, of course, a reference to the old music hall standby “A Little of What You Fancy Does You Good.” We get a proper send off for the witches with this battle at the end, but more than anything, I’m glad to see Magrat in her Ynci gear one last time… Pratchettisms Her fingers curled around the odd-shaped little stone, tracing its five ridges, and somehow she felt a strength flow into her, the hardness of the flint at its heart reminding her who she was. I am the maiden — and I am also the hag. “If you learn things,” she finished softly, “you might find yourself building a different kind of kingdom.” But she hadn’t seen the old lady for over a week, and in a week an old lady could fall through the cracks of life. She was given a Look, and Mrs. Earwig said, “I will nut as I see fit.” I wish I had brought Granny Weatherwax’s boots to wear for this fight. They would have given me strength. And then she stopped this thought. No. This is my land. My turf. My feet. My boots. My way… Geoffrey paused—he was trying to weave a peace between them, but it was like trying to get a rock to agree with a hard place. A Little Something Before We Go There are a few books besides all these that I might like to get to someday, so I’m not giving a big official farewell here. Maybe it’s just being terrible at endings, come to think of it. They feel… inorganic to me, if that makes sense? Things so rarely end in a finite and tangible way, and when they do, they’re often so unsatisfactory. So this is where I’ll leave things. For the time being, and perhaps for the longterm. But this has been a great checks series page four years? Four years, forty-some books, and a chance to read them in order, which I’d never done before. It’s been… so good. I’m going to miss shouting “Terry, you can’t do this to me” regularly at the page in front of me, every time something particularly clever or moving popped up. I’m going to miss having a built-in excuse to return here, this little haven in my head and online coexisting for a while. Mind how you go, friends. Be good to one another, especially when it’s hard. Remember that personal isn’t (usually) the same as important, and that Death loves cats. Return to the Disc when you need it. As for me, I think I’ll spend a little time trying to see the color octarine…[end-mark] The post Terry Pratchett Book Club: <i>The Shepherd’s Crown</i>, Part III appeared first on Reactor.

If you’ve noticed dust bunnies multiplying under the couch or find your pantry cluttered with expired goods, it’s time to take action. We understand your situation:life gets busy and cleaning can easily fall to the bottom of the to-do list. Nevertheless, this season presents the ideal moment to reset, declutter, and prepare your living space for cozy, relaxing evenings ahead. Imagine curling up in a clean living room, with every item in its place. Or what about dreaming you’re cooking wonderful meals in an organized, spotless, and sparkling kitchen?. Let’s turn those visions into reality with this comprehensive fall cleaning guide. Using this step-by-step plan, you’ll refresh every room in your home and ensure they’ll be ready for the season. A sparkling clean living room with freshly vacuumed carpets, dust-free surfaces, and polished wooden furniture. Sunlight streaming through spotless windows, creating a cozy, peaceful atmosphere. Living Room: Refresh and Revitalize The living room is often the heart of the home where family and friends gather. To keep it feeling inviting and comfortable, take time to refresh it. A thorough cleaning, decluttering, and a few simple updates can give your living room new life and make it even more enjoyable as the seasons change. Here are a few cleaning and maintenance tasks that can bring back life in your living room: Dust and Polish Surfaces Dust all surfaces, such as shelves, coffee tables, and electronics. Use a microfiber cloth to trap dust and prevent it from spreading around the room. After the dust is gone, polish wooden furniture to give it a fresh, clean shine. Vacuum Upholstery and Carpets Thoroughly vacuum your upholstery, pay attention to crevices and use the appropriate attachments. If your carpets haven’t been deep-cleaned recently, consider renting a carpet cleaner or hiring a professional to remove embedded dirt and allergens. This can help create a healthier living space for everyone. Clean Windows and Curtains In addition to cleaning surfaces, wipe down windows inside and out to maximize natural light during the shorter fall days. Moreover, don’t forget to wash or dry-clean your curtains, as this  eliminates dust and freshens up the room even more. Declutter Shelves and Drawers Go through your bookshelves, media consoles, and side tables. Clear out items that no longer serve a purpose tomake the room look neat and streamlined. Additionally, organizing what’s left will enhance your space’s overall freshness. Kitchen: Scrub and Simplify The kitchen is the hub of any home.  Keeping it clean and organized means an easier and more productive time preparing and serving meals. Give your kitchen a deep clean and declutter areas you use most. Doing so simplifies your daily routines and creates a fresher, more efficient environment for cooking and gathering. Getting your entire kitchen shine like new will require a lot of time, elbow grease, and patience. But, you’ll definitely like what you’ll see once you finish the tasks below: Clean Appliances It’s time deep to clean your oven, microwave, and refrigerator. Use the right cleaners for each appliance to remove grime and food residue effectively. If needed, defrost your freezer and discard expired items to keep your kitchen organized and functional. Sanitize Surfaces Wipe down countertops, backsplashes, and cabinet fronts using a disinfectant cleaner. Be sure to pay extra attention to high-touch areas like handles and switches, as these tend to accumulate germs. For further guidance, refer to the CDC’s cleaning and disinfecting guide. Organize Pantry and Cabinets Sort through your pantry and kitchen cabinets, discarding expired food and organizing the remaining items. Using clear containers will help make everything visible and accessible. In addition, you can learn more tips from Real Simple’s pantry guide. Clean Floors Finally, sweep and mop the kitchen floor, with special focus on corners and areas beneath appliances. If you have tile floors, scrub the grout lines to remove any built-up dirt. Bedrooms: Create a Cozy Haven Your bedroom should be a private retreat where you can relax and unwind. As the seasons change, take this opportunity to refresh and reorganize your space and make it cozier and more inviting. With a few simple steps, you can transform your bedroom into the perfect haven for rest and relaxation. Refresh Bedding Wash all bedding items, including sheets, pillowcases, and comforters. As the cooler months approach, consider switching to warmer bedding for maximum comfort. Don’t forget to clean mattress covers and pillows to ensure your bed feels fresh and inviting. Declutter Closets Next, go through your wardrobe and set aside summer clothes for donation or storage. Organizing your fall and winter attire will make it easier to access what you need. Meanwhile, take this opportunity to vacuum and clean closet floors for a tidier space. Clean Under the Bed Once your closet is organized, remove any items stored under the bed and thoroughly vacuum the area. Since dust tends to collect in hidden places, this is essential for a complete fall cleaning guide. Dust and Vacuum Dust all surfaces in the bedroom, including nightstands, dressers, and light fixtures. Vacuum carpets and rugs, paying special attention to high-traffic areas where dirt and dust often collect. Bathrooms: Sanitize and Shine Bathrooms are one of the most frequently used rooms in the house, and keeping them clean is essential for both hygiene and comfort. A thorough cleaning and organizing session will not only make your bathroom sparkle but also create a refreshing and inviting space for you and your guests. Clean the Shower and Tub Scrub the shower and tub to remove soap scum and mildew. Make sure to use a bathroom cleaner designed for tough stains to leave surfaces sparkling clean. Sanitize Toilets and Sinks Disinfect toilets, sinks, and countertops. Focus on faucets and handles, which often harbor bacteria. For additional bathroom cleaning tips, check out Good Housekeeping’s bathroom guide. Wash Linens Don’t forget to wash all bathroom linens, including towels, bath mats, and shower curtains. If you have any worn or frayed items, replace them to maintain a fresh, inviting bathroom space. Organize Cabinets and Drawers Finally, declutter bathroom cabinets and drawers by discarding expired products and organizing the remaining ones. Small bins or drawer organizers can help keep everything tidy and easily accessible. Entryway: Welcome Cleanliness Your entryway sets the tone for the rest of your home, so it’s important to keep this space clean and organized. A tidy and welcoming entryway makes a great first impression and helps maintain cleanliness throughout your home. By refreshing this high-traffic area, you’ll create a more inviting and functional space for you and your guests. Sweep and Mop Floors Sweep and mop the entryway floor. Doing so ensures that your home feels clean and welcoming from the moment you step inside. Additionally, give your doormat a good shake or vacuum to remove trapped dirt. Organize Shoes and Coats Sort through shoes and coats, storing away summer items and bringing out fall gear. Using hooks or a shoe rack will help keep everything neat, tidy, and accessible. Wipe Down Surfaces In addition, dust and clean all surfaces such as tables and shelves, in the entryway. If you have a mirror in the entryway, wipe it down to remove any smudges or fingerprints for an added touch of cleanliness. Tidy Up Clutter Lastly, clear any clutter that tends to accumulate in the entryway, such as mail, keys, or other miscellaneous items. Using a small tray or bowl, you can keep essential items organized and within easy reach. General Tips for Fall Cleaning As the seasons change, it’s the perfect time to give your home a deep clean and prepare for the cozy months ahead. Fall cleaning not only helps refresh your living space but also sets a welcoming atmosphere as the holidays approach. Tackling the task may seem overwhelming, but with a few strategic tips, you can make the process manageable and even enjoyable. By organizing your cleaning efforts and incorporating some fun elements, you can breeze through your fall cleaning checklist with ease. Create a Schedule To make the fall cleaning guide more realistic and manageable, break down your tasks into manageable chunks and spread them out over several days or weeks. Use the Right Tools Investing in quality cleaning tools that makes the process much easier and more efficient in the long run. Make It a Team Effort Assign tasks to family members so that everyone shares the workload. More importantly, cleaning can become a fun group activity when everyone gets involved! Play Music or Podcasts Listening to your favorite tunes or engaging podcasts makes the process more enjoyable, which can make time fly. Step into a Sparkling Season with Your Fall Cleaning Guide This comprehensive fall cleaning guide helps refresh your home and set the perfect stage for the cozy months ahead. As you methodically work through each room, you’ll create a cleaner, more peaceful, and inviting environment. In fact, think of it as preparing your space for the warmth and comfort that fall brings. PS: Have you followed this fall cleaning guide? We’d love to hear about your experience! Share your favorite cleaning tips and tricks, and let’s inspire each other to keep our spaces fresh and welcoming. For more seasonal tips, don’t miss our fall home organization guide.