Will the U.S. still be a world power in 50 years?

germangirl90439 comments on May 17, 2018:

What do you mean by "still"? I don't think we're very powerful right now ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

@germangirl90439 True too. The beginning of the end?

A miniature carving of a Rat Terrier I did for a fundraiser for the rescue I'm a member of.

pixiedust comments on May 15, 2018:

About how long would something like this take you to accomplish?

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

@DotLewis I’ve spent 300 hours on one before. Obviously a bit larger though.

A miniature carving of a Rat Terrier I did for a fundraiser for the rescue I'm a member of.

AstralSmoke comments on May 15, 2018:

Is that in balsa wood? What sort of paint do you use?

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

@DotLewis Bass wood would have been my second guess. Do you prime to wood first or directly paint it with acrylic paint?

One of our favorite couples !

AstralSmoke comments on May 16, 2018:

I don't know who they are, so I can laugh.

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

@evergreen I think I’ll pass.

What's your stance on TNR?

BucketlistBob comments on May 17, 2018:

Geeze.... i dont have an opinion on this.

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

Can’t believe it!

What's your stance on TNR?

Akfishlady comments on May 17, 2018:

You could write this same story about humans. I think we all have a responsibility to take care of nature and to not add to the demise of things but to just label cats as an issue leaves something much more dangerous and disastrous not being held accountable for much worse than feral cats. Humans. ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

@cyndiann I sort of agree. I just turned two kittens in to the shelter. Haven’t caught the mom yet though. She is feral and had kittens. It only takes two cats and then they multiply exponentially.

What's your stance on TNR?

Robotbuilder comments on May 17, 2018:

It will keep them from reproducing, but those animals will still be wandering around outside, being exposed to danger, and leading miserable lives. Honestly, I have mixed feelings on it. It solves one problem, but it leaves a whole lot of problems unaddressed.

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

@cyndiann I agree. They seem as happy as any wild animal around here. I trap them. Take them to a shelter about 10 min away. Then catch the next one. We don’t have a shortage of them.

What say you?

stinkeye_a comments on May 17, 2018:

Use real member pix, preference for those sporting the t shirt. Volunteer basis only, of course.

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

@AmiSue you can go without.

Once in a while I will hear a word or phrase that can send me right back to a Sunday morning sitting...

AstralSmoke comments on May 17, 2018:

For sure. My dad studied Hebrew and Greek. He was a preacher/teacher. So anytime I hear Hebrew or Greek, it brings back memories of his sermons.

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

@hankster Definitely is. Even at home we were shunned from disturbing dad while he studied. I enjoyed hearing his interpretations though.

What's your stance on TNR?

pixiedust comments on May 17, 2018:

We have TNR where I live, but only in managed, community cat colonies. It has helped to significantly reduce the number of feral cats in the city. Community cats are provided with shelter, food and water. Veterinary care is also provided, if necessary and if the cat can be trapped. In return, the...

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

@pixiedust I’ve sat in my driveway and watched a cat take a bird right off the birdbath. Also have seen one carrying a rabbit. Those are just the ones I’ve seen.

What are the chances

AnneWimsey comments on May 17, 2018:

Update, please. It has been a while!

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

@Qualia maybe that’s the only thing you don’t agree with him on. I doubt it, but maybe.

What are the chances

AstralSmoke comments on May 17, 2018:

Just an extreme introvert. We need them as well.

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

@Qualia maybe he voted for Bernie!

Will the U.S. still be a world power in 50 years?

germangirl90439 comments on May 17, 2018:

What do you mean by "still"? I don't think we're very powerful right now ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

We’re still considered a world military power and (diminishing) cultural influence. At least the last I heard.

What's your stance on TNR?

pixiedust comments on May 17, 2018:

We have TNR where I live, but only in managed, community cat colonies. It has helped to significantly reduce the number of feral cats in the city. Community cats are provided with shelter, food and water. Veterinary care is also provided, if necessary and if the cat can be trapped. In return, the...

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

I believe that their lives not only reduce rats (which maybe they do) but also chipmunks, birds, rabbits, etc.

What's your stance on TNR?

Akfishlady comments on May 17, 2018:

You could write this same story about humans. I think we all have a responsibility to take care of nature and to not add to the demise of things but to just label cats as an issue leaves something much more dangerous and disastrous not being held accountable for much worse than feral cats. Humans. ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

I agree.

What's your stance on TNR?

Robotbuilder comments on May 17, 2018:

It will keep them from reproducing, but those animals will still be wandering around outside, being exposed to danger, and leading miserable lives. Honestly, I have mixed feelings on it. It solves one problem, but it leaves a whole lot of problems unaddressed.

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

One major problem I have with this approach is that feral cats still kill native animals.

Will the U.S. still be a world power in 50 years?

twshield comments on May 17, 2018:

Depends on how much damage Trump Does...

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

I agree Trump has taken us down a side road. The view might have been different with Clinton, but do you think the destination would have been any different?

Will the U.S. still be a world power in 50 years?

EMC2 comments on May 17, 2018:

Yes we will, We will become progressive in ideology and will combine with Canada to make North America the technology and science center of the globe. Artificial intelligence is good as an aid but the artificial intelligence of a republican is just not the same type of artificial We as a nation ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

Optimism at its finest.

Will the U.S. still be a world power in 50 years?

BucketlistBob comments on May 17, 2018:

No... artificial intelligence will be in charge. It will be the aliens. We will have the terminators. Its possible. The computer only took 30 years to turn into what it is. ...lol.

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

I think artificial intelligence is already in charge. We just don't recognize it yet.

One of our favorite couples !

AstralSmoke comments on May 16, 2018:

I don't know who they are, so I can laugh.

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

@evergreen Well, he looks cheesy and she looks like she'd take everything you have and still smile. There's one here in Chattanooga as well.

What are the chances

AstralSmoke comments on May 17, 2018:

Just an extreme introvert. We need them as well.

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

@Qualia Sorry if the 'feeling' has dissipated for you. Maybe good while it lasted? Anyway, your discussion with @AnneWimsey compelled me to post something about this 'situation' which I have been thinking a lot about lately. So thanks.

Describe your sex life with a band name...

BucketlistBob comments on May 17, 2018:

Steppenwolf..... Watch "Steppenwolf - Magic Carpet Ride [Steir's Mix]" on YouTube https://youtu.be/UoGOOBA6Pfg

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

I never associated flying with Rap/Pop, but maybe.

What are the chances

carlyhorton comments on Mar 17, 2018:

I bought and moved into my first house about two years ago. My sister also lives on the street and she got several of us into a community project that lasted a few months. But if it hadn't been for her, I might not really know my neighbors either. I'm 50. I live alone. I don't have visitors. ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

@carlyhorton Which witch?

What are the chances

Reignmond comments on Mar 17, 2018:

How many times do you hear about the neighbor who was "always pleasant", "active in their community", " "meticulously maintained they property", "the life of the party"; who also tortured their family or other unsavory acts. Just because someone is not just like you does not make them a bad person. ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

@Qualia Oh, it's meant as a joke?

Does anyone barter?

CaroleKay comments on May 17, 2018:

I run a local garden share. We meet once a month and trade, swap, or share plants, cuttings, seeds, pots, fruits, vegetables, eggs, tools and anything garden or farm related.

AstralSmoke replies on May 17, 2018:

That's impressive. I'm not a member of something like that, but like sharing my produce nonetheless.

These are some serious issues!

Condor5 comments on May 16, 2018:

Hah! They don't know how to spell masturbators. Fucking dummies. Wait, is it masterbaiters?

AstralSmoke replies on May 16, 2018:

I believe it's meant to be taken literally.

These are some serious issues!

HippieChick58 comments on May 16, 2018:

What is a Female Enabler? Occupational Whores?

AstralSmoke replies on May 16, 2018:

I'm a female enabler.

To get out of 88-degree heat, today I hiked a 6.

ronin73 comments on May 15, 2018:

Beautiful. I wish l could get to the Northwest more often.

AstralSmoke replies on May 16, 2018:

@LiterateHiker thanked you, she just placed it under the wrong reply.

Nearly finished my outdoor raised garden.

AstralSmoke comments on May 14, 2018:

So, as far as the corn goes, do you not have problems with birds eating it?

AstralSmoke replies on May 15, 2018:

@MaddMax30 I'm sure you have crows.

Pointless insanity: Muslim Couples and Their Children Blow Themselves Up in Indonesia, Killing Many...

VAL3941 comments on May 15, 2018:

Must be a dysfunctional Families ?

AstralSmoke replies on May 15, 2018:

They kill and die together. Sounds pretty functional.

Some of the cool insects that showed up last night.

AstralSmoke comments on May 15, 2018:

Wouldn't have been able to id the cranefly. Predaceous diving beetle? They sound dangerous.

AstralSmoke replies on May 15, 2018:

@Insectra Wow, see what you mean. I thought they kamikazed out of the sky or something.

@Admin -- any chance that there will be an "archive" option soon for messages instead of just ...

AstralSmoke comments on May 15, 2018:

Nothing is actually ever 'deleted'. We just can't see it.

AstralSmoke replies on May 15, 2018:

@SkotlandSkye Yes, the signs of the time.

Thirty Seconds To Mars - Walk On Water (Official Music Video) [youtu.be]

Charlene comments on May 15, 2018:

We will win this fight..

AstralSmoke replies on May 15, 2018:

But can you walk on water?

We can talk about it until we are in the face, it's not going to change anyg.

AmiSue comments on May 15, 2018:

To be honest I grow weary of the people that I know going on and spouting their indignation without doing a goddamn thing. I am involved in voter registration drives, I work the polling places. Anything to get people involved. Inaction is a threat in our current climate. A person I know sat out...

AstralSmoke replies on May 15, 2018:

I can understand your opinion. I voted in the 2016 election, but I basically threw my vote away. I didn't vote for Clinton or Trump, but it didn't matter because I live in a red state anyway. Get rid of the electoral college, educate voters (somehow), get money out of politics, and perhaps we can return to a democracy.

Being on this site has given me a lot of food for thought in particular about dating.

AstralSmoke comments on May 14, 2018:

It has been impossible for me to determine what boundaries need to be in place until after spending time (years possibly) with a person. I must be looking at this wrong. Some deal breakers are easy to see; others just pop up out of nowhere. I think it's time to go to bed. I feel depressed.

AstralSmoke replies on May 15, 2018:

@crazycurlz Sorry for the 'word'. Your post didn't make me feel depressed. I had answered another post and the answers there made me depressed, plus I was tired. Thanks for your words of encouragement.

You know, it's a telling thing when you wake up on Monday AM to a headline like this (Analysis: How ...

AstralSmoke comments on May 14, 2018:

Pick a scandal. Just hope someone does something about him fairly soon. I'm growing impatient.

AstralSmoke replies on May 14, 2018:

@Liberal50 I'm sure if they find something (how could they not?) they want to be double sure it's right and provable.

To Bother Or Not To Bother: Finding Your Myers-Briggs Personality Type – HealthyWay

wordywalt comments on May 7, 2018:

I took the Briggs-Myers yars ago, and did not find it informative or useful. I found Anthony Gregorc's Style Delineator much more accurate.

AstralSmoke replies on May 14, 2018:

You always seem to have better answers.

Hey, I’m going to be in Newark and Manhattan next weekend for about 25 hours.

UUNJ comments on May 13, 2018:

In NYC, it’s fun to meander in different directions. There are ethnic sections, museum sections, places with fun window shopping. There are interesting houses of worship you can enter for free, if that interests you. Greenwood cemetery in Brooklyn can be interesting to wander thru. If you invest...

AstralSmoke replies on May 14, 2018:

Perfect!

Welcome to five new members to the group: - @Blindbird who is into blues, bluegrass, sad Irish ...

FrayedBear comments on May 14, 2018:

Welcome to @AstralSmoke. Please say hello and let us know of you likes.

AstralSmoke replies on May 14, 2018:

I like a fairly large array of music, but especially Appalachian and American Folk. I enjoy going to music festivals while camping under the stars and listening to 3 days of music. My favorite groups (at the moment) are The Horseflies and Donna the Buffalo, but there are many others as well.

Happy Friday, here's Scooters version of, The Logical Song to celebrate :) [youtube.com]

AstralSmoke comments on May 11, 2018:

Does Scooters also go by the name of techno-chipmunks?

AstralSmoke replies on May 13, 2018:

@girlwithsmiles Jumping around is a good thing and no, it didn't offend anything physical.

A friend of mine asked me about dating.

DragonFZ comments on May 13, 2018:

Yes... First of all, on a date... you pay. Subconsciously, you're responsible for them having a good time. And Never, Never, Never call it a date. BTW, if she claims, "this is not a date"... You are in the friend zone. When this happens, you take charge of and hold that friend zone line. I made ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 13, 2018:

@germangirl90439 I'll expect to if we ever go out. You can rightly so leave your expectations at home and simply enjoy the time together.

Interior by Maria Bethania ://[www.youtube.com/watch?v=aC3QMt5Xs6E]

AstralSmoke comments on May 13, 2018:

You live by/for music, don't you?

AstralSmoke replies on May 13, 2018:

@Rossy92 I like your posts, often informing me about someone I hadn't previously heard of.

Does anyone else find it a bit condescending that some people can have no interest in you because ...

countrylife comments on May 13, 2018:

I believe it is condensing that a parent would send her kids to collage, so they will be "better off." A person can take up a trade thru a school for barely next to nothing (sometimes free thru high schools), and make like $60k to $80k right out of high school.

AstralSmoke replies on May 13, 2018:

@countrylife No qualms. It totally depends on the individual.

A friend of mine asked me about dating.

DragonFZ comments on May 13, 2018:

Yes... First of all, on a date... you pay. Subconsciously, you're responsible for them having a good time. And Never, Never, Never call it a date. BTW, if she claims, "this is not a date"... You are in the friend zone. When this happens, you take charge of and hold that friend zone line. I made ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 13, 2018:

@germangirl90439 I simply am of the opinion that if you ask someone out on a 'date', you should pay. And my last comment is a reality. There is nothing for free. Say you and someone decided to go out for the evening and just planned on spending time together, maybe for a hike. Transportation cost something. Ok, you've decided to walk or ride a bike. Well, shoes cost money, bikes cost money. Nothing is free. Even 'free things' cost something: time, money for repairs, something.

Does anyone else find it a bit condescending that some people can have no interest in you because ...

DevraisA1 comments on May 13, 2018:

I feel really upset when a friend says she is not intelligent because she never went to college. She reads and she stays current on newsworthy events. When she makes herself seem less, it breaks my heart.

AstralSmoke replies on May 13, 2018:

@FrayedBear Well, I'll keep watching and reading.

A friend of mine asked me about dating.

DragonFZ comments on May 13, 2018:

Yes... First of all, on a date... you pay. Subconsciously, you're responsible for them having a good time. And Never, Never, Never call it a date. BTW, if she claims, "this is not a date"... You are in the friend zone. When this happens, you take charge of and hold that friend zone line. I made ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 13, 2018:

@germangirl90439 I agree with your idea, but nothing is free.

What does one do when their life is shit?

Akfishlady comments on May 13, 2018:

You can change the way you look at things. If you are able to adjust what you think about it sometimes that helps you to move forward. I have been in terrible places and have considered all the options and somehow I have come through and survived. Sometimes you walk away from situations that ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 13, 2018:

I agree wholeheartedly. If you can change something that isn't right for you, you should do it. True, there are things one has no influence over. Learn to live with those. Other things can definitely be changed.

Does anyone else find it a bit condescending that some people can have no interest in you because ...

countrylife comments on May 13, 2018:

I believe it is condensing that a parent would send her kids to collage, so they will be "better off." A person can take up a trade thru a school for barely next to nothing (sometimes free thru high schools), and make like $60k to $80k right out of high school.

AstralSmoke replies on May 13, 2018:

If it's only about the money, yea.

Does anyone else find it a bit condescending that some people can have no interest in you because ...

DevraisA1 comments on May 13, 2018:

I feel really upset when a friend says she is not intelligent because she never went to college. She reads and she stays current on newsworthy events. When she makes herself seem less, it breaks my heart.

AstralSmoke replies on May 13, 2018:

@FrayedBear Oh, I will.

Does anyone else find it a bit condescending that some people can have no interest in you because ...

AstralSmoke comments on May 13, 2018:

I must admit I have several degrees. From all the schooling that I've had, I've come to the conclusion that most people in grad schools or perhaps even post-grads are book-smart but have no common sense and very few real-life experiences. I like to tell people that some of the dumbest people I met ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 13, 2018:

I had a revelation while I was doing some chores. Perhaps an idea that is closer to home, but along the same track, is: Does the level (# of points) one has achieved on this site affect how one is viewed by other 'members'?

Does anyone else find it a bit condescending that some people can have no interest in you because ...

DevraisA1 comments on May 13, 2018:

I feel really upset when a friend says she is not intelligent because she never went to college. She reads and she stays current on newsworthy events. When she makes herself seem less, it breaks my heart.

AstralSmoke replies on May 13, 2018:

@FrayedBear I haven't deciphered how you view the world yet.

Does anyone else find it a bit condescending that some people can have no interest in you because ...

CeliaVL comments on May 13, 2018:

It's not something I have experienced though I can believe it exists. It seems strange, because both the USA and the UK seem rather hostile to intellect and culture, paying more attention to how wealthy you are. Perhaps having a 'college education' equates to having enough money to go achieve that...

AstralSmoke replies on May 13, 2018:

In the US, they keep pushing the 'fact' that you need a good education to land a decent job. Propaganda?

Does anyone else find it a bit condescending that some people can have no interest in you because ...

Qualia comments on May 13, 2018:

Uhm, this seemed to be the case in my home state before I left it. It's almost, at least my impression, like a caste system. I've some college, 77 hours, but they're probably expired or pretty much worthless by now. I don't think it's too much to ask. If I had just a HS education would have missed...

AstralSmoke replies on May 13, 2018:

I loved school (still do) and like you could have gone my entire life, but there comes a time where it's your turn to have a life.

Aristotle - was a Greek philosopher, making contributions to logic, metaphysics, mathematics, ...

AstralSmoke comments on May 12, 2018:

Aristotle was my hero in high school.

AstralSmoke replies on May 13, 2018:

@gater I found his theories of art fascinating.

I found some ova in cold storage that I forgot I collected last year! Egg rings, on scrub oak, from...

AstralSmoke comments on May 12, 2018:

A dumb question for an expert: Do most insects start in the ova stage?

AstralSmoke replies on May 12, 2018:

@Insectra Or the life of the party. I feel that way (too much to learn) about a lot of topics. Unfortunately for me, I find too many things fascinating.

What would you do if you suddenly and unexpectedly learned that you were someone's genetic clone?

AstralSmoke comments on May 12, 2018:

I’m sure I would.

AstralSmoke replies on May 12, 2018:

@pixiedust Sometimes, but normally when my head hits the pillow I am out. Dreams can come up with all sorts of demented scenarios.

It seems to me that many of the problems in the world occur due to corrupt leadership.

AstralSmoke comments on May 12, 2018:

We need more knowledgeable voters and voter responsibility. How can we have a democracy if less than 1/3 of the people vote?

AstralSmoke replies on May 12, 2018:

@nadine3478 Totally agree and that's the one place I can (sort of) make a dent.

It seems to me that many of the problems in the world occur due to corrupt leadership.

AstralSmoke comments on May 12, 2018:

We need more knowledgeable voters and voter responsibility. How can we have a democracy if less than 1/3 of the people vote?

AstralSmoke replies on May 12, 2018:

@Rugglesby That's one reason I mentioned knowledge before responsibility.

Language is corrupted

RobAnybody comments on May 12, 2018:

Neither. Language changes. Writing was a novelty once.

AstralSmoke replies on May 12, 2018:

@RobAnybody I was trying to paraphrase to the readers below what you had earlier stated. Guess I got it wrong.

I found some ova in cold storage that I forgot I collected last year! Egg rings, on scrub oak, from...

AstralSmoke comments on May 12, 2018:

A dumb question for an expert: Do most insects start in the ova stage?

AstralSmoke replies on May 12, 2018:

@Insectra You got it right. I was asking about the beginning. I have too much to learn. Thanks.

Americans - How corrupt is your government? If at all!

AstralSmoke comments on May 12, 2018:

It's extremely corrupt, thanks to capitalism. What am I doing about it? Nothing. I don't know what I can do about it.

AstralSmoke replies on May 12, 2018:

@atheist If one can make it a career, possibly. I vote, but I’m only one voice and my voting never changes anything. I try to concern myself with other things rather than politics. Life is to be lived.

Do you care if you are remembered when you die?

pixiedust comments on May 12, 2018:

I would like to be remembered, but the vast majority of us are not remembered beyond a generation or two. Anyhow, I don't really worry about it because I won't be in a position to know or care whether or not I'm remembered. (Although I have been known to declare that, if I haven't made it to the ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 12, 2018:

@pixiedust My people have been placed on suspension due to lack of constraint.

Do you care if you are remembered when you die?

pixiedust comments on May 12, 2018:

I would like to be remembered, but the vast majority of us are not remembered beyond a generation or two. Anyhow, I don't really worry about it because I won't be in a position to know or care whether or not I'm remembered. (Although I have been known to declare that, if I haven't made it to the ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 12, 2018:

@pixiedust Either one/both?

Do you care if you are remembered when you die?

pixiedust comments on May 12, 2018:

I would like to be remembered, but the vast majority of us are not remembered beyond a generation or two. Anyhow, I don't really worry about it because I won't be in a position to know or care whether or not I'm remembered. (Although I have been known to declare that, if I haven't made it to the ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 12, 2018:

We'd better get working on that.

Movie night! What is your favorite drama?

MacTavish comments on May 12, 2018:

Run, Lola, Run.

AstralSmoke replies on May 12, 2018:

It’s better in German.

Language is corrupted

RobAnybody comments on May 12, 2018:

Neither. Language changes. Writing was a novelty once.

AstralSmoke replies on May 12, 2018:

Only a few knew how to write. Now that almost everyone can, languages change faster.

Language is corrupted

CallMeDave comments on May 12, 2018:

Language is a virus from outer space. And hearing your name is better than seeing your face. -Laurie Anderson coopting willims S Burroughs

AstralSmoke replies on May 12, 2018:

Love her!

Americans - How corrupt is your government? If at all!

wordywalt comments on May 12, 2018:

With the Trump cabal in power and with today's morally bankrupt Republicans in power, our government is becoming more and more corrupt by the day. As an 81 year old man, I am voicing my opinion in every medium that I can, contributing money to anti-corruption causes, and making sure that I do not ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 12, 2018:

Dems are as bad. They just usually cover their asses better. I can’t name more than 5 dems that i’d be proud to call my own.

Americans - How corrupt is your government? If at all!

AstralSmoke comments on May 12, 2018:

It's extremely corrupt, thanks to capitalism. What am I doing about it? Nothing. I don't know what I can do about it.

AstralSmoke replies on May 12, 2018:

@Petter I wish we could return to the idea that elected officials serve the people that elected them and remove money completely out of government (no lobbyist) and have a two-term limit on all offices.

Is the era of men "wooing" or "Pursuing" over?

Maiasaura comments on Mar 27, 2018:

I am an incurable romantic and I long to be Wooed. Courting is a sign of respect. SIGH.

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

It's fun, too.

@Admin as I cannot message Site Admin atm I will express my thanks and horror at the receipt of my ...

AstralSmoke comments on May 11, 2018:

Nice idea and a more economical way of doing the exact same thing. Allows more options as far as color of shirt as well.

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

@FrayedBear :-(

Anyone else fond of the Mr. Deity videos? [youtube.com]

AstralSmoke comments on May 11, 2018:

All those things are natural, that's why he left them in.

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

@pixiedust No, I hadn't heard of him before.

It is still too early to see wild monarchs in central Illinois, but the black Eastern swallowtails ...

AstralSmoke comments on May 11, 2018:

Do you find chrysalises or do you purchase them?

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

@MikeEC Thanks, that was very helpful. I have a butterfly garden, this is my third year. The first year nothing, the second year I believe the invitations must have gotten lost. This year, I hope for better results. I have not been able to grow milkweed, although I've attempted. Time for new seeds and keep trying. They're weeds so shouldn't be such a problem to grow. Anyway, I'll post some photos when everything has grown a bit more.

Show me your furry child who melts your heart! This is my little buddy.

AstralSmoke comments on May 11, 2018:

Wow, you have a regular zoo.

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

@SkotlandSkye I love animals, the more the merrier.

Fill in the blanks My __________ Is a _________ who can't wait for time to tell __________ ...

BucketlistBob comments on May 11, 2018:

Whoops.... i give it a minute.... too much for me...lol.

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

OK, I'll make it simpler next time.

Does anyone else wish there was a way to turn off notifications for posts or comments?

AstralSmoke comments on May 10, 2018:

I got tired of notifications as well. I ended my membership to photos for that reason. I'm still able to post though.

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

@Admin Thanks, that's what I do.

Fill in the blanks My __________ Is a _________ who can't wait for time to tell __________ ...

Akfishlady comments on May 11, 2018:

I thought that was something familiar.

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

OK, so no takers.

Just spent 2 hours weeding my raised beds.

AstralSmoke comments on May 11, 2018:

Industrious.

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

@SkotlandSkye That's great! My garden is not even close to yours in size, 11' x 4' (2). More planned in the future. I don't can or freeze very much, but fresh veggies are unbeatable and I have 5 neighbors that love them as well.

Just finishing planting my planters .

AstralSmoke comments on May 11, 2018:

Try some cotton balls.

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

@Hebert54 That's similar to what I do if I try to plant corn and sometimes beans. Chipmunks, birds, squirrels, opossums, and raccoons enjoy them too much.

@Admin as I cannot message Site Admin atm I will express my thanks and horror at the receipt of my ...

AstralSmoke comments on May 11, 2018:

Nice idea and a more economical way of doing the exact same thing. Allows more options as far as color of shirt as well.

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

@FrayedBear Off Topic: Have you ever wanted to open a night spot (bar, etc.) for heathens in a defrocked church (building)?

Fill in the blanks My __________ Is a _________ who can't wait for time to tell __________ ...

VAL3941 comments on May 11, 2018:

Do you suffer from a speech impediment by any chance ??

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

Sometimes, but usually not in writing. I make too many assumptions sometimes. You're supposed to fill in the blanks, be creative and not be too hard on yourself.

Ever been startled by someone's vehement religion-inspired opposition to something you regarded as ...

AstralSmoke comments on May 10, 2018:

Yea, there was a lot of reading, but I finally made it.

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

@pixiedust Definitely

Does anyone else wish there was a way to turn off notifications for posts or comments?

AstralSmoke comments on May 10, 2018:

I got tired of notifications as well. I ended my membership to photos for that reason. I'm still able to post though.

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

@Admin I just checked the sittings for notifications to a group. If there was a way to refine notifications, like choosing who you’d like to follow in a group rather than getting notifications for each new post, new members, etc. The only option I see is turn off all notifications.

Ever been startled by someone's vehement religion-inspired opposition to something you regarded as ...

AstralSmoke comments on May 10, 2018:

Yea, there was a lot of reading, but I finally made it.

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

@pixiedust wow, expecting guests?

Just finishing planting my planters .

AstralSmoke comments on May 11, 2018:

Try some cotton balls.

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

@Hebert54 I’ve been to Cornwall before and I know it can rain everyday there. You also probably have Sun most of those days. I didn’t check your location before I replied. Maybe there some grasses or something that’ll keep the critters away, or perhaps use some temporary fencing.

Group Administration

AstralSmoke comments on May 11, 2018:

Normally, I have found that if a mistake has occurred it is my mistake. If I can’t find a solution, I contact @admin.

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

@FrayedBear :-(

Just finishing planting my planters .

AstralSmoke comments on May 11, 2018:

Try some cotton balls.

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

@Hebert54 They probably won't work if you have a lot of rain.

I’m planning an East to West and back road trip next year, hitting as many national parks and ...

AstralSmoke comments on May 11, 2018:

Smokey Mountains, TN & NC

AstralSmoke replies on May 11, 2018:

@UUNJ There are tons of them. Are you a hiker or a stroller?

Does anyone else wish there was a way to turn off notifications for posts or comments?

AstralSmoke comments on May 10, 2018:

I got tired of notifications as well. I ended my membership to photos for that reason. I'm still able to post though.

AstralSmoke replies on May 10, 2018:

@Admin Ok, I'll try to be more observant.

Ever been startled by someone's vehement religion-inspired opposition to something you regarded as ...

AstralSmoke comments on May 10, 2018:

Yea, there was a lot of reading, but I finally made it.

AstralSmoke replies on May 10, 2018:

@pixiedust I think the limit is a pot.

Sunrise at the insect sheet. Lights are shut down and it's time to send the moths on their way.

AstralSmoke comments on May 9, 2018:

I'm not sure what I'm looking at. Is the sheet just used for viewing?

AstralSmoke replies on May 10, 2018:

@Insectra It sounds like an extremely interesting hobby. I don't have the time to get into it as much as you are, but it'd be fun to id some moths with the kids.

Sunrise at the insect sheet. Lights are shut down and it's time to send the moths on their way.

AstralSmoke comments on May 9, 2018:

I'm not sure what I'm looking at. Is the sheet just used for viewing?

AstralSmoke replies on May 9, 2018:

@Insectra I'm sure they are. I've got a fairly large cover of violets (a sculpture in progress) and have heard/read that moths love violets. What's the best way to view them? Blacklights? MVs sound expensive.

Sunrise at the insect sheet. Lights are shut down and it's time to send the moths on their way.

AstralSmoke comments on May 9, 2018:

I'm not sure what I'm looking at. Is the sheet just used for viewing?

AstralSmoke replies on May 9, 2018:

I know, get off my lazy ass and read up on the subject. Geesh!

This zucchini, 2 radish, green garlic shoots, fresh basil all out of my garden added with can of ...

HippieChick58 comments on May 8, 2018:

Lovely, distinctly jealous here. My garden isn't even planted yet.

AstralSmoke replies on May 8, 2018:

Mine either, but it should be.

Look what the kids at my church just did! Ftr, Unitarian Universalists are mostly Humanist and ...

MikeEC comments on May 8, 2018:

Wow! What a wonderful project with super results. Although I have raised monarch butterflies from eggs for the last couple of years, I have not checked into any type of tagging procedure. I did an Internet search for "monarch butterfly tagging," and turned up quite a few results. Here are a ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 8, 2018:

I knew you'd post them, just didn't know when or where.

Trolling and mental health

btroje comments on May 8, 2018:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/your-online-secrets/201409/internet-trolls-are-narcissists-psychopaths-and-sadists

AstralSmoke replies on May 8, 2018:

Avoid them. Good advice. This comment is in regards to the article, not @ki-bee 's remark.

Trolling and mental health

btroje comments on May 8, 2018:

http://bigthink.com/philip-perry/who-are-internet-trolls-psychologists-build-a-profile

AstralSmoke replies on May 8, 2018:

Call in the behavioral analyst "Criminal Minds". Nice article by the way.

There are level seven members who have only been here at Agnostic for a month.

stinkeye_a comments on May 8, 2018:

I leveled up fast, just liking and commenting. I don't remember how long it took to get to 7, but it wasn't long. Points might not be the best measure of eligibility for Senate. Maybe longevity would be better. Maybe it doesn't matter. "Senate" is just a group, for discussion. It's not ...

AstralSmoke replies on May 8, 2018:

@stinkeye_a You like algorithms, don't you?

There are level seven members who have only been here at Agnostic for a month.

ScienceBiker comments on May 8, 2018:

I agree only insomuch as the points become less meaningful if they can be aquired within a month.

AstralSmoke replies on May 8, 2018:

If someone is free the entire day to make posts, send comments and responses, it's no problem reaching level 7 in one month. It never has been. I'm just lazy.

My 1st Armature Rose.

AstralSmoke comments on May 7, 2018:

I like the shower curtain effect. I know, it's not part of the painting. Presentation is everything.

AstralSmoke replies on May 8, 2018:

@Lita They work well.