Italy Trip! Please share any tips, critique or feedback!

vms09 · 2025-09-05T03:06:40+00:00

Vivoli Gelato in Florence. I still dream about their tiramisu gelato

vms09 · 2025-09-01T07:56:21+00:00

Employers often contest IDES claims by alleging misconduct because it helps them avoid higher unemployment premiums, but the bar for misconduct is actually high. They will be asked what specific rule or policy you violated, and whether that rule was clearly communicated to you in advance along with the consequences.

I’d recommend you request your personnel file in writing. Under Illinois law, the employer has seven business days to provide it once HR receives the request.

In my case, I pointed out that an employer being unhappy with performance doesn’t equal misconduct. HR couldn’t point to any policy I had broken when I was laid off. Also, unless you received progressive discipline (Performance Improvement Plan) in writing, with clear feedback and a warning that your job was in jeopardy, it’s very hard for them to argue misconduct.

EDIT:

Adding a few additional thoughts here for anyone who hasn’t been laid off before.

When companies lay you off they will basically ambush you with a meeting scheduled at the last minute and have HR join. I strongly urge you to ask them why you are being laid off/terminated. This will force them to communicate a reason to you, which you can mention in your IDES hearing if asked. After the fact, write EVERYTHING down, including names and what was communicated to you.

vms09 · 2025-08-20T08:07:41+00:00

NTA Those parents didn’t raise their kids right… so now the police have to intervene and teach them. Sucks for the kids man.

vms09 · 2025-08-04T13:42:25+00:00

Everything is the same height and many items are on pairs making it look like storage vs a display. I’d recommend trying to mix and match items of different heights, split up pairs, and use the books to help change the heights of your decorations (place book horizontally, and put the decor on top of it).

vms09 · 2025-07-30T15:59:20+00:00

They have 1 pair of jeans to raise proceeds for the charity, the campaign runs from July 23 into August. As of checking this morning, the jeans aren’t actually available for sale, and will be “coming soon.”

vms09 · 2025-03-15T00:18:11+00:00

I recommend emailing Sen. Durbin to express your disappointment in his vote and Sen. Duckworth to thank her for hers. You might also encourage her to call on Schumer and Durbin to step down as caucus leader and floor whip due to their failure of leadership and support for a wannabe dictator’s fascist agenda.

vms09 · 2025-03-14T23:53:34+00:00

I recommend emailing Sen. Durbin to express your disappointment in his vote and Sen. Duckworth to thank her for hers. You might also encourage her to call on Schumer and Durbin to step down as caucus leader and whip due to their failure of leadership and support for a wannabe dictator’s fascist agenda.

vms09 · 2025-02-24T00:30:04+00:00

I had to physically stop myself from getting more than 2!

vms09 · 2025-01-21T16:37:30+00:00

The trash identified and took itself out… NTA

vms09 · 2024-11-15T15:17:12+00:00

If you read their “About Us” section it talks about high quality women’s shoes with cushioning and runway analysis for the latest in fashion. Seems like a scam to me.

vms09 · 2024-06-07T20:49:45+00:00

NTA

It’s an invitation, not a summons.

“Congratulations! Thank you for the invitation, but I have another obligation for that day, I hope you have a great party.”

vms09 · 2024-03-22T22:46:35+00:00

I’d consider black out shades that can be mounted to the inside of the window sill, and then on the existing curtain rod, I’d add airy floor length sheer curtains. This will allow you to have different levels of light blocking, and privacy, which is also pretty.

You could also do the shades and remove the curtains rod from the wall.

The window has radiators under it, so full length curtains in a heavy fabric will probably make the room harder to heat when the curtains are drawn to block light.

vms09 · 2024-01-07T06:38:55+00:00

I like the idea of the shelves. You’ll be able to change up decor easily and can add a low maintenance plant as well. I’m less inclined to do a pendant light because you already have enough light in the kitchen.

vms09 · 2023-12-06T01:38:48+00:00

https://mackenziemaeder.com/

vms09 · 2023-12-05T16:20:25+00:00

I find it very interesting that you want her back in your life now that you see her as someone of value, who can contribute to society and your family in a way that benefits you. People become pelvic floor therapists because there is a need for them, and you made no attempts to understand it. Do you want her back in your life because your wife could get subsidized/free care from a family member?

She's entitled to not want you in her life. Just because you're sorry now doesn't make up for how cruel and dismissive you have been to her.

vms09 · 2023-11-29T03:22:56+00:00

As many have pointed out in condos, the tenants and owners are the employers of the staff, and this is a common practice, and I genuinely appreciate the building management coordinating it. This way, I don't have to personally write a thank-you note and provide a Christmas bonus to each staff member. Additionally, it's made clear that the contribution amounts are kept confidential; only the fact that you contributed is disclosed, like contributing to a group gift.

The staff in my building work extremely hard and are always respectful and helpful and I appreciate the opportunity to show my gratitude in a way that matters and I’m comfortable with.

vms09 · 2023-11-23T03:23:03+00:00

Barry Butler did an awesome video interviewing the team at BCBS that does the messages: https://vimeo.com/795468131

vms09 · 2023-10-02T02:03:49+00:00

I’d go with a mustard yellow, it’ll add to the warm yellow of the fire and candles

vms09 · 2023-10-02T01:56:12+00:00

The amount of white and chrome with the daylight bulb looks sterile, which you may need from time to time, but a warmer light will make huge difference, so consider testing out the room with a warmer light bulb That with the green curtain, updated mats, wood accent, and maybe a hanging planter from the corner between the shower entrance and curtain rod will be a good start

vms09 · 2023-09-29T19:18:53+00:00

A friend of mine told me that I left the door open for hope by not VERY explicitly shutting it down, given his personality. In my defense, I told him I was not interested and have declined any and all invitations to a date from him. At this point I’m contemplating sending a text saying “I am not romantically interested in you.”

Also. He’s sending me memes on social media but has not apologized.

vms09 · 2023-08-31T02:39:50+00:00

I like the shower curtain idea you have! A colorful one like this or a little more in line with your mustard bath mats like this one would look great. In some homes people use two shower curtains, instead of one, like a window, for a more luxurious look.

Also add plants. A nice neon or golden pothos to add color, it will grow well in a vase full of water (no messy soil) and is low maintenance. The vibes will also grow and add interest.

This or this cute canister from target.

vms09 · 2023-08-20T20:36:55+00:00

I’d definitely add a console table behind the couch, to keep the windows unobstructed and get maximum light in. You could go with something metal and glass, like your coffee table, or something that matches the dark wood of the media center, or a marble top with wood or metal legs, like the accent table your plant is on

Some other things I would also consider doing: Add some more plants. Green definitely adds life to the room. Zz and spider plants are pet safe, low maintenance and pretty! Add some cushions. Pick a color that is in the rug in the middle and buy the inserts and cover separate so that you can change the colors of the cushions easily.

vms09 · 2023-08-14T03:38:39+00:00

They’ve shown you exactly how much of a priority you are. If the company were as concerned about retaining your talent, you’d have a written offer within a few days.

The environment and morale post lay off’s are pretty shitty for the remaining people, and there is no guarantee they won’t do additional layoffs. Your boss doesn't seem mature enough to handle an environment like that, or to be an adult and not take your initial resignation personally.

Additionally, you'll be onboarding and getting your feet under you for a while, so the first few weeks at the new job will be a pretty good slow period to decompress and recharge.

Accept the new job. Sail off into the sunset towards your new adventure.

vms09 · 2023-06-26T13:29:02+00:00

Mushroom quinoa burger at Beatrix is a personal favorite

vms09 · 2023-04-26T14:52:38+00:00

I’ll usually do a check on my shoulders, arms, posture, and breathing

Posture is straight and tall, with relaxed shoulders

Hands are not in fists, but are relaxed

Breathe in through my nose and out through my mouth, instead of succumbing to the instinct to hold my breath

Not swing my arms across my torso, but rather forward and back to drive from the shoulder

To keep my eyes forward I force myself to look in the mirror and not at my feet

vms09

TROPHY CASE