HETTY

Category: Uncategorized

  • I’m already writing for free!

    What job would you do for free?

    It’s true. I’m trying to monetize my WordPress blog, which I started in October 2025. I planned on relying on donations for my writing, which mostly focuses on poverty relief. How much have I made so far for the articles I posted? Zero!

    I’ll admit that I used AI generated content for some of the articles I posted. I just wrote the prompts, edited the generated content as needed, and copy and pasted the articles to my blog space. But some articles I wrote myself.

    I’m in fact losing some money from paying for Blaze advertising at times, paying for the WordPress domain, and then paid for the AI writing app. I also at times spend money to make certain recipes or go to events, and then write about them later.

    I also admit that I have the financial means to support myself now so I can write about different subjects. But my experience so far with blog writing has been discouraging, if I focus more on earning a living from writing.

    I recently read a social media post about someone else who tried and failed to make money online. It can be very hard, almost impossible if someone can’t invest massively in advertising or a lucrative service and/or product.

    Anyways, as far as jobs I would do for free that exist in real life, that are worth the stress and investment of time and effort? Not many. Maybe a club DJ, an astronaut, or a male porn star. The fringe benefits have to be worth it. Which of those 3 are more likely to happen in my lifetime though?

  • I Learned Better Outside of School.

    I Learned Better Outside of School.

    Who was your most influential teacher? Why?

    I struggle to recall the names of any of my prior teachers, and I had many of course. I went to public school, and I can only remember Ms. Lloyd-Jones, my kindergarten teacher. I think I only remember her name because it was hyphenated.

    I admit that I was barely above average as a student, but I learned better outside of school. And I have an unconventional education. Years of public school, a military apprenticeship mostly learning cooking, an associate’s degree in Computer Information Systems (not financially lucrative yet), and I dropped out of getting a bachelor’s degree in Technical Writing, but I only had a year left in getting one.

    I remember Jean-Claude, the French Chef who had a gentle way of teaching military cooks to improve on cooking methods. He was a mentor and supervisor, but I didn’t know him well. He had advice that I still remember.

    But I would say Leonardo (Da Vinci) was my best overall teacher, even though he lived centuries ago. He was more than an artist, from what I read of him. He worked in different fields, and for some reason I find him fascinating. Mainly for his designs of flying machines, anatomy drawing, and mechanical devices. I saw how gears, ropes, frames, and pulleys worked together for a certain purpose.

    I think I’m a dreamer like he was, and it’s only in recent years I’ve been dabbling in different fields like video generation, robotics, AI generated projects, music, experimenting with food recipes, painting, and writing. My blog counts.

    The most influential Leonardo quote I remember? “It’s not enough to know. We must also do.”

    I was able to visit the Leonardo Da Vinci Science and Technology Museum in Milan earlier this month, and I mostly went to take photos and absorb info so I can be inspired to make my own inventions and designs. Yes, I have some ideas I want to work on. Let’s see if I can succeed.

  • There’s 2 Versions of Compliments

    What was the best compliment you’ve received?

    There’s 2 versions of compliments I’ve gotten. One is a “clean” version, and then there is a more inappropriate compliment. But both were from women I knew.

    The “clean” version of a compliment I’ve received, that I actually took to heart, is a female coworker called me creative. I was in the Air Force then working at a fitness center, and I have more of an Arty/Nerdy vibe. I believe the young woman was of a junior rank and is Hispanic. She was hanging out at the fitness center cuz her boyfriend at the time worked there, and we were chatting about different things, and she called me more of a creative type without me mentioning that I’m like that. I talk about music, movies, video games, TV shows, pop culture in general often, and I’m a fan of comedy. So I appreciated the compliment.

    I’ve been called a good person before, but I never think I’m good enough. And I am flawed and a constant work in progress (I can’t always help others, as an example.)

    The more inappropriate version of a compliment I’ve gotten was from an ex girlfriend, near fiance. You can probably see where this is going, so maybe some of you more sensitive readers should stop reading by now.

    ———-NSFW and/or NSFL——-

    For those who really want to know, and have their curiosity sated, she said that she had the best sex she ever had with me. And sometimes she would call me handsome and good looking , even though I don’t think I am. And although we broke up, I still think about her, and wish that things went differently than they did.

    I’m thinking about her again. Maybe in time I’ll write about my ex more in detail, cuz it was the most complicated relationship I ever had by far.

  • I’ll take the more affordable option

    I’ll take the more affordable option

    You’re going on a cross-country trip. Airplane, train, bus, car, or bike?

    I have experience with all forms of the listed transportation, but it depends on the country I’m in.

    The US unfortunately doesn’t have a good train network compared to Europe, but if it’s more affordable and accessible to take the train, I’ll do it. I will take flights to different cities if there are no train routes there.

    Buses I will take only for shorter distances, say no more than 100 miles one way. I once took a longer round trip from Little Rock to Chicago by bus, and I found the experience unpleasant. Every single bus there and back was late, sometimes by over an hour. The rest stops were too brief, and sometimes the buses would be stuck in traffic congestion. I got too stressed, so no more of that.

    A round trip by Amtrak from Little Rock to Milwaukee was more of a pleasant experience. I’d recommend trips by train whenever possible, even though it can take almost a day to travel one way.

    If I’m not rushed to go to a specific city or destination, I’ll take the scenic route by train. A flight otherwise, and then a bus is my last option. Bikes and cars only for shorter trips of no more than 5 miles, if I can help it.

  • The Nerd List

    What movies or TV series have you watched more than 5 times?

    Oh, I got a list alright. Prepare yourself for the Nerd List:

    The Simpsons

    Scooby Doo

    Alien

    Aliens

    Star Wars (all of non Disney movies except for Rogue One)

    Predator

    The Lord of the Rings

    The Indiana Jones original trilogy

    Anchorman

    Beetlejuice

    Terminator 1 and 2

    The Matrix

    Airplane!

    The Thing

    Halloween

    Dawn of the Dead

    Pee Wee’s Big Adventure

    Seinfeld

    Family Guy

    Goodfellas

    Forrest Gump

    The Exorcist

    Fright Night

    The 40 Year Old Virgin

    Fargo

    The Big Lebowski

    Silence of the Lambs

    The Cosby Show

    American Werewolf in London

    Edward Scissorhands

    There’s probably more movies and shows I forgot to list, but these are the main ones. Note that there isn’t many indie movies or art films among the list. Some foreign films I only saw once.

  • HL Mencken: 14 Great Quotes

    HL Mencken: 14 Great Quotes

    Henry Louis Mencken (1880-1956) was one of the greatest journalists, essayists, and cultural cititics of the 20th Century. Here are some of the best quotes by H.L. Mencken, along with their sources:

    1. **”For every complex problem there is an answer that is clear, simple, and wrong.”***Source:* Often attributed to Mencken; appears in various writings but exact origin is uncertain.

    2. **”The most dangerous man to any government is the man who is able to think things out for himself.”***Source:* *The American Mercury*, 1926.

    3. **”Democracy is the theory that the common people know what they want, and deserve to get it good and hard.”***Source:* *Notes on Democracy*, 1926.

    4. **”Puritanism: The haunting fear that someone, somewhere, may be happy.”***Source:* Attributed in various works; exact source uncertain but reflects Mencken’s critiques of morality.

    5. **”No one ever went broke underestimating the intelligence of the American public.”***Source:* *The American Mercury*, 1920s.

    6. **”Nobody ever lost a dollar by underestimating the taste of the American public.”***Source:* Similar in theme to above; from Mencken’s critiques of popular culture.

    7. **”The whole aim of practical politics is to keep the populace alarmed (and hence clamorous to be led to safety) by menacing it with an endless series of hobgoblins, all of them imaginary.”***Source:* *In Defense of Women*, 1918.

    8. **”On some great and glorious day the plain folks of the land will reach their heart’s desire at last, and the White House will be adorned by a downright moron.”***Source:* *The American Mercury*, 1920.

    9. **”The urge to save humanity is almost always a false front for the urge to rule it.”***Source:* From Mencken’s commentary on social movements, particularly in *The American Mercury*.

    10. **”In every man under thirty there is a lawless anarchist, and in every man over thirty there is a conformist coward.”***Source:* From Mencken’s *A Mencken Chrestomathy* (1949).

    11. “An idealist is a person who helps other people to be prosperous.”— Source: From Mencken’s writings on social criticism and human nature.

    12. **”It is the dull man who is always sure, and the sure man who is always dull.”***Source:* From *The American Mercury*, December 1925.

    13. **”The education of a man is never completed until he dies.”***Source:* Paraphrased from Mencken’s writings on education and lifelong learning.

    14. **”Every decent man is ashamed of the government he lives under.”***Source:* From *The American Mercury*, 1925.

    These quotes showcase Mencken’s sharp wit and often cynical view of politics, society, and human nature. For full context, many are found in his essays and articles published primarily in *The American Mercury* magazine during the 1920s.

  • Carry the Bear Spray Around Me

    Which animal would you compare yourself to and why?

    The bear comes easy as an answer, and I guess I’m more like a black bear than a brown or polar bear, or any of the other species. Let me explain the ways:

    I’m fairly big and hairy, with dark fur. I can eat a lot, and I gained some weight for the winter. I’ll try to lose it in coming months. I tend to be less active and sleep more during the winters, almost like a state of torpor hibernation.

    I’m fairly docile and sometimes even timid, except when I’m not. I will flee threats in most cases, but I will fight back if cornered or to protect the ones I care about.

    What else? I tend to be picky about what I eat, but I like tasty high fat, sugary, and salty foods. I can eat a whole lot of berries. I’m not much of a runner, but I can sprint at times.

    I lived in (man) caves, and often alone (not always).

    So I’m somewhat cuddly and somewhat deadly. LOOK OUT!🐻

  • York The Dork

    What is your middle name? Does it carry any special meaning/significance?

    York is my middle name, and it was my father’s first name. I think one of my nephews also has that middle name.

    The name is ancient, and it evolved from the Brittonic Celtic word Eboracon, which I read means Yew Tree Place. It has British and Norse origins. Of course, there’s modern cities with either York as a full name or part of the name. British-American usage in the modern world.

    My first name means a channel of water, my middle name means an area of a bunch of trees, and my last name comes from one of the main disciples of The Nazarene. Maybe it has some significance, but I doubt my parents put that much thought into my full name.

    So yes, I probably have some British and Scandinavian ancestry, base on ancestry research I’ve done on my dad’s side of the family. But York is an unusual name in modern times. I sometimes make jokes about my middle name or middle initial.

    I had no idea how Eburācon became Eboracum, then Eoforwīc, then Jórvík, and finally York. They don’t even have much similarity, and I never encountered those specific words before.

    Yes, I had to use the internet to research the origin of my second name: A place of Yew Trees. What the hell is that?!

  • The Night Door

    What is the last thing you learned?

    I’m currently staying in a hotel in another country, and it seems at night the front entrance is locked for security reasons. My first night here, I was trying to go outside to vape at 10pm, but the door can’t open. There is an button near it, so I press it. The door is still locked; I can’t open it still.

    There’s a woman at reception, telling me something in a language I can’t hear or understand much of. I wear hearing aids due to moderate to severe hearing loss, but I didn’t have them in cuz I just wanted to vape outside and I take the hearing aids out when they get uncomfortable after awhile, or I turn in for the night.

    After some time of me being puzzled, the woman walks to the front door, presses the button and opens the door at the same time. Oh, thank you! I say in the language I have limited knowledge of.

    I learned at least one thing, technically 3. One thing is that I learned how to open that hotel entrance door by pressing that electronic button and opening the door at the same time, that specific method. The other thing is that I should wear my hearing aids any time I expect to be around any other people, cuz I never know when I’m gonna have to hear or speak to other people, and the last thing is I need to learn more of that language I took 2 high school courses and having a basic proficiency in decades ago.

    I’m vague about where I am cuz of the interesting times we live in.

  • “Do you have any money you could give me/us?”

    What is one question you hate to be asked? Explain.

    There’s variations of this question, but it’s a common one that happens the most often that irks me. Homeless or needy people asking me for any help I can offer. Advertising, political ads, and fundraisers asking me for buy or give. Sometimes friends or family will ask me to help them out. There’s various other examples.

    I have a limited income, and while it’s enough to support myself, I have to go without certain indulgences. I try to be frugal and yet I can be generous at times

    The problem is, while I can be generous and have a history of volunteering, there’s limits to my generosity. Like, I can give 2$ to a panhandler at times, but I can’t give the person 20$ or more. At least not too often. I definitely can’t buy the person a new home or even a hotel room for the night. And I can’t afford to give 2$ to 20 or more panhandlers in a day. That has happened before when I’m in cities.

    Another example. There is an annual pledge drive from a famous website that I and millions of others use and appreciate. I have donated smaller amounts at times, but I can’t afford to do larger donations every year. I also can’t afford to give to various fundraisers, only maybe one or 2 per year. There’s times when my bank account is close to going negative.

    I have a hard time saying “no”. There’s often a social pressure to say yes and give money to help others, buy certain products or services, or donate to different causes or political parties and candidates. I try to use my own judgement. I buy, donate, or give when I can afford it, but I can’t always afford it.

    So I end up feeling a lament that my generosity isn’t enough, or my income is too meager to make a big difference in someone’s life with my income, buy a more expensive product/service, or to support a cause I wish that I could. I buy/donate/give to a certain point, but if I go over that limit, I go into survival mode and start saying no or declining more often.

    So there’s a struggle in me between altruism and selfishness. It’s partly why keep to myself much of the time, or I have to cut people off if I’m asked to give more.

    The main reason I struggle with my generosity is, if I ever need financial help, I too often can’t find it. I’m lucky to have the income I have now, cuz I know there’s people living with much less.

  • My Robot Hobby

    My Robot Hobby

    Describe the most ambitious DIY project you’ve ever taken on.

    I’m a fairly creative person. I’m not highly creative; I know that there’s people out there who are more so. But I have written certain papers and I’m technically published, cooked different foods, created my own songs, painted and drew over the years, gathered supplies for my own Halloween costumes and makeup, and I’m dabbling in AI generated written articles, images, and videos.

    I also “drew” the first few pages of a comic book that went nowhere when I was a teenager.

    However, I would say that my robot hobby is the most ambitious project I’ve done. Yes, I build kits and sets, although I have tried to make simple designs using a single hobby motor, gears, and hobby supplies like glue, paper clips, plastic lids, and popsicle sticks.

    Robotics is one of my special interests, and I’m proud that I was able to complete 8 robot projects, although I made several more science based mechanisms, and I had some botched projects.

    The most ambitious robot was a black plexiglass Hexapod (six legs). 13 motors, LED lights, an Ultrasonic sensor, and a Arduino clone circuit. It did require programming in C++ and Python.

    That was a difficult project, and while it could move somewhat, and I could make the LED lights turn on, it couldn’t move fully. I was disappointed of what I could do with the Hexapod kit, so I ended up discarding it during a move.

    Robotics is hard, but I’m proud of what I could do with little formal education, and limited resources. I know that there’s robots currently being made that are more advanced and expensive than what I made, but I was able to accomplish things I couldn’t dream about 15 years ago.

    For example, I built a type of robot that I could voice control using an app, and a “Whegged”robot that could crawl on different terrain like grass and rocky terrain. I made a cargo type of treaded robot that could carry lightweight objects like drinks and articles of clothing.

    I’ll keep dreaming and trying new things. Maybe it can lead to something in the future.

  • Tropical Heat🥵

    What is the biggest challenge you will face in the next six months?

    I’m currently in a country with a Mediterranean climate, even though it’s technically winter here. Not too hot, not too cold. It rarely snows here, although a jacket and knit cap may be required during the night time. I dealt with frigid temperatures before, so it’s comfortable enough here.

    However, next month I’m traveling to a country with a tropical climate, and it’s hot and humid almost all year. Near unbearable heat, similar to Miami weather.

    I’ve endured extreme heat and cold before, but that climate is something else.

    I’ve been to the country before last year, and I tried everything to stay cool without access to more expensive air conditioning. Drinking ice water and cold drinks, wearing shorts and t-shirts, swimming and showering several times a day, having a fan close by blowing wind on me, staying in shade, and minimizing my activity outside. Having a frozen water bottle cool me down. Very little relief, still sweating like crazy.

    It got to the point where I was suffering heat stress and developing health issues. So after 3 weeks, I finally gave in and stayed in lodging with regular air conditioning. Finally, some real relief, and my health improved.

    I plan to stay in this country for 6 months, at least! Possibly longer. I don’t like extreme hot or frigid weather, but between the two, I’ll chose the hotter weather. At least I don’t have to deal with the snow and gloom.

    I don’t know how the local people tolerate the climate, but they adapted well enough that they can wear long shirts and pants outside. And here I am from a Midwestern climate, sweating buckets minutes after being outside in shorts and a t-shirt.

    And it could get even hotter in coming years! Yes, a challenge I’ll try to meet. I still like being in the country though, I just complain about the climate. I’ll manage somehow.

  • The World Needs Misfits

    What advice would you give to your teenage self?

    Oh, I would have to make a list of the things I would tell my younger self. But I’ll start with changing the mindset about loneliness. Being alone can be an advantage in some ways , and I developed in such a way that I can tolerate isolation better than others. Maybe not try so hard to make friends and date. It will happen in time with less pressure.

    Save money as much as possible. I fell for the materialistic creed, and thought that I would always be fairly comfortable financially. There were definitely lean times in my life, and there may be more in the future. So try to be more frugal.

    Study engineering in university. I wouldn’t say that I have a talent in engineering, more like a general interest that could have developed further with formal schooling. Maybe I could have worked as in robotics, materials science, or even in artificial intelligence. There’s more opportunities for engineers than the other fields I studied.

    Don’t smoke or toke, no matter how stressed or upset you get. I developed bad habits in my late teens and twenties, mainly cuz I don’t cope with stress well. I didn’t know that those habits would cause more stress and difficulty over time, plus I would be able to save money if I didn’t develop those habits. I didn’t fully understand how a mind could be addicted to substances.

    Read more science and philosophy. I read a lot, but the stuff I was reading as a teenager is different than what I read now. I would recommend Bertrand Russell, Arthur Schopenhaur, Albert Camus, and maybe some other ones, since their works would help me understand the world better, and help me cope with problems I would have throughout my life. I could have developed a different mentality.

    Walk more, and be more creative. I still love music, but I can barely play. I could have developed my music skill more, maybe using studio software. And walking and biking seem to exercise that I can tolerate. Paint, draw, and write, maybe some opportunities would come up.

  • The Curse of being Atypical.

    What bores you?

    So, what bores me? It’s more like what doesn’t bore me. I have been more selective of how I spend my free time.

    Formal education bores me. I went to school for several years, including a technical college and university. Going to lectures, listening to 2 or 3 professors or teaching assistants per day lecture for hours at a time, sometimes reading about subjects that can be tedious. It often took an innovative or charismatic teacher for me to pay attention in class, or I took a course that I have familiarity and interest in.

    Sports bore me. While some people find athletic teams and individuals fascinating, I often don’t. It’s more like I count how many sport injuries can happen during a game or match.

    Many television shows and oftentimes movies can bore me. Television comedies seem to be my go-to, but it has to be very funny for me to keep sustained interest.

    While I used to like movies, I think I saw so many over decades that I can predict plot twists and movie tropes. I maybe see one or 2 movies a year now, and they tend to be the blockbuster type of film. I was bored seeing the second Avatar movie, it was so long.

    I read everyday, but I find books boring now. I don’t think I have the attention span to read novels, but I will read the occasional non-fiction book. I may not finish though, but I will read up on summaries and profound quotes after. And certain articles are Too Long; Didn’t Read, so I’ll skip to the last 2 paragraphs.

    I tended to job hop after 18 months-2 years in most cases, cuz I would grow bored with the routine over time. I would get excited at first once I got a job, I would then learn the routines, and over time have contempt over the routine. And often the pay wasn’t good enough for me to tolerate the stress and boredom and stay longer.

    What else? Some music genres can be uninteresting for me, like Country music, Folk, Jazz. While I was a fan of the early days of Rap and HipHop, it seems like even the modern artists these days are going through the motions.

    I partly left the US cuz I found my newer residence boring. When shopping and eating are the main pastimes there, I was ready to move after 5 years. Nice weather though.

    Maybe it’s me. I lived too long, had my fill of experiences, and became burnt out and world weary. It’s harder to find interesting things about living on Earth. I will probably dabble more in virtual reality in the near future, if I can afford it. Longing for the Holo-Deck, or Death. Whichever comes first….

  • A Cuppa Coffee for a Neurodiverse Mind

    What is your favorite drink?

    I have a cup of coffee near me now. Instant coffee and heated mineral water, a little milk, and I currently don’t add sugar, or add a little sweetener. I probably drink way too much coffee. When I brew coffee, I can easily drink a pot or more a day.

    I do like other drinks, like Soda (Pop), fruit juices, alcoholic beverages, tea at times. Milk I only drink if I can get a gallon jug of it, otherwise I use it for cereal or for cooking. But since I have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, I limit consuming the other drinks.

    Coffee is relatively affordable, healthy, and a comfort to drink. It’s possible that I self medicate and stimulate with coffee due to my autism and possible ADHD, but it probably does contribute to whatever sleep and anxiety problems I have.

    My parents and grandparents were coffee drinkers, and I’m currently in a country with several cafes. I tend to make my own brews though to save money. I don’t mind Espresso, but my go to coffee is brewed American style. I feel like I get my money’s worth, even though it’s just extra water.

    Coffee has been repeatedly proven to have several antioxidants and can offer resistance against several diseases and increase lifespan. And perhaps the coffee grounds can be used as a bio-char to add to strengthen concrete. So there’s probably a good reason why I drink so much coffee.

  • Hetty Green: “The Witch of Wall Street”

    Hetty Green: “The Witch of Wall Street”

    I’m going to diversify the topics of articles on my blog, and write about the inspiration for the name of my blog. HETTY was named after Henrietta “Hetty” Green, an American investor and secret philanthropist during the late 19th and 20th century. At one time, she was the wealthiest woman in the US.

    I did limited research about her, but what I’ll write what I know. She came from a wealthy Quaker family based in Massachusetts, and received an 6 million$ inheritance after the deaths of her father and aunt in 1865. She was educated enough in finance by her father and grandfather to make her own investment decisions in her own modest home or in banks, and invested in mortgages, real estate, government bonds, railroad stocks, and other diverse investments.

    In 1867, she married Edward Henry Green, and soon after had 2 children, Edward Green II and Sylvia. It’s notable that her husband was also wealthy, but they kept their finances separate, and there was a pre-nuptial contract before the marriage. Hetty continued to invest and live frugally.

    Hetty was a shrewd investor, and she was known to have lived an extremely frugal lifestyle, bordering on miserliness. She ate simple meals (oatmeal is rumored to be part of her regular diet), lived in modest housing with her family, avoided paying for hot water and electricity, and after her husband died, she wore a single simple black mourning dress daily until it had to be replaced with other simple clothing.

    She may have been a miserly money hoarder, but she was also a financial genius, succeeding in an industry dominated by men. The media and business rivals of the time spread rumors about her extreme frugality, but she lived a simple life based on her Quaker upbringing. I see the frugal traits of Warren Buffet and the Financial Independence, Retire Early movement in her modest way of life.

    She was also misunderstood during her time. She did anonymously donate to charities in her life, and her 2 grown children later donated the majority of their 100 million dollar inheritance to various charities after Hetty Green’s death in 1916.

    I chose HETTY as the name as my blog, cuz I believe in Hetty Green’s philosophy of living as frugal as possible, lifelong learning, and low key generosity. I sometimes post articles at times about financial advice, money saving lifehacks, and ways to make and save money.

    Hetty Greene died in 1916 at her son’s home. She was able to turn a 6 million dollar inheritance into a fortune of over 100 million dollars. Adjusted for inflation in today’s dollars, that is over 2 billion dollars.

    Was Hetty Green truly a Witch, or the Queen of Wall Street?

  • Blue Dockers Hiking Boots

    Tell us about your favorite pair of shoes, and where they’ve taken you.

    I’m not picky when it comes to shoes, which seems to be a problem for my brothers. As long as they are affordable and they fit me, I’ll wear them. However, the best pair of shoes I ever owned were dark blue, black, and gray Dockers Hiking boots.

    I didn’t buy the high rise shoes myself, but rather they were a Christmas gift from my youngest brother some years ago. He most of all would complain about me buying cheaper lower quality shoes that I tended to wear longer than the time they should have been replaced.

    I liked the stylish almost futuristic design, they were snug and comfortable, and looked good with various articles of clothes. They kept my feet warm and dry, especially while walking in several inches of snow during the winter. The soles had good grip on ice and other slippery surfaces.

    While I wish that I can say that I traveled far and wide in different countries while wearing those shoes, but in most cases I wore the boots around my hometown. I wore them when I went to bars and clubs, wore them outside during the winter and walked in puddles and grassy areas, and when I visited family and friends. I’m sure I wore them at work when I was allowed to.

    I kept the higher quality boots for over 2 years, probably closer to 3 years, but I eventually replaced the hiking boots cuz they were worn out and uncomfortable to my feet. And I’m sure that I went back to the affordable lower quality shoes. Hey, old habits die hard.

  • The Observer

    If there were a biography about you, what would the title be?

    I had to think about this prompt question for awhile, but The Observer is probably the best title for a biography I could come up with. Maybe if I’m ever worthy of someone writing my biography, the author can think of a better one. But it’s a safe yet honest title.

    I’m not famous or infamous (yet), and as much as I’d like to be remarkable somehow, I’m likely unremarkable in every way. I have a certain skill set that’s probably outdated in the 21st century, but what I do best no matter what is observe.

    I’m an introvert, although I sometimes wish that I wasn’t. I can be quiet, and passive to a fault. And I’m alone most of the time, although I do attempt to be social. However, I observe people and see mostly mundane behavior, although there were moments where I saw violent or unusual behavior from a distance.

    I observe animals, wild or domesticated, doing their own things, I observe the daily life of cities and towns, cars passing, people walking, sometimes with pets, children, or companions. I detect stimuli through whatever functional senses I have left. I see debris and garbage around, and I’ll pick it up and dump it if I’m in the mood. And I observe whatever scenery I’m around when I’m outside. I’ll observe nature do its thing, but I have been in various environments and climates. Deserts, temperate forests, mountainous regions, larger cities, beaches, tropical areas, and green fields.

    Oh, I’ve been on the outskirts of historical events or situations at times, but not as any of the main “actors”. Again, just observing the good, bad, and neutral among people, places and things.

    Sometimes I’ll write about it or photo/video record it. So far, it hasn’t led to anything special or lucrative. And based on prior evidence, I doubt that it lead to anything special in the future. I could be wrong though. Here’s hoping!

  • Get a DNA test done.

    Something on your “to-do list” that never gets done.

    I’m curious about my genetic history, including my full ethnic background going back hundreds or even thousands of years , and my genetic propensity for certain diseases and conditions that may happen in the future. So I would in time like to get a DNA test done. I keep on putting it off.

    I already participated in 2 genetic studies that use genetic samples I’ve given- SPARK and the Million Veteran Program- because I’m an US veteran with an Autistm Spectrum Disorder. Unfortunately, the results of my donated DNA aren’t available to me, since it’s confidential information. But I would l like to do a private DNA test.

    So why haven’t I done a DNA test yet? It’s always a money problem. I never seem to have enough money to pay for a DNA test. And as I understand, 23 & Me is one of few private companies that offer analysis of DNA samples, but it recently had financial woes.

    Getting a DNA test done is more of a want than a need. One of these days, I’ll get a test done. I hope so.

  • No Favorites

    What are your favorite sports to watch and play?

    I’m not a Sports guy, even though I have family members who are, and I come from a American city with 2 major league teams. One team even won a Championship in recent years.

    It’s not if I never watched sports. They don’t interest me. Football, Soccer, Baseball, Golf, Boxing, and Mixed Martial Arts matches and games are hard to avoid on big screen televisions in numerous bars and restaurants. I rather play a video game or watch a movie though.

    However, Baseball is probably my favorite, since I understand how the game is played, I can play it and I’m not terrible unlike other sports, and I’ve been to some games, including major league games. But I don’t follow closely, and I don’t care who wins. I know that makes me part of the minority.

  • How People Survived Fascism

    Survivors of fascism have endured profound and often harrowing experiences under regimes characterized by authoritarian control, suppression of dissent, and widespread human rights abuses. Their stories reveal the devastating impact of fascist rule on individuals and communities, as well as the resilience and courage required to endure and resist.

    Many survivors recount living in constant fear due to pervasive surveillance, arbitrary arrests, and brutal punishments for any perceived opposition.

    Families were frequently torn apart, with loved ones imprisoned, exiled, or worse.

    Daily life under fascism often involved restrictions on freedom of speech, assembly, and press, making it dangerous to express any dissenting opinions.

    Experiences also include witnessing or surviving targeted violence against marginalized groups, including ethnic minorities, political opponents, and other vulnerable populations.

    Forced labor, internment in concentration camps, and systematic persecution were tragically common.

    Despite these hardships, survivors’ testimonies often highlight acts of solidarity, resistance, and hope. Many participated in underground movements, helped hide those persecuted, or found ways to maintain their dignity and humanity in the face of oppression.

    These firsthand accounts are invaluable for understanding the human cost of fascism and serve as powerful reminders of the importance of vigilance against tyranny and the defense of democratic values.

    Organizations and memorial projects around the world work to preserve these stories, ensuring that the lessons of the past inform our present and future.

  • Fascist Regimes in History

    Fascism is a political ideology characterized by authoritarianism, nationalism, and often a dictatorial leadership. Throughout history, several regimes have been identified as fascist or exhibiting fascist characteristics.

    Here are some of the most well-known fascist regimes:

    – **Italy under Benito Mussolini (1922–1943):** Often considered the original fascist regime, Mussolini’s government emphasized nationalism, militarism, and the suppression of political opposition.

    – **Germany under Adolf Hitler (Nazi Party) (1933–1945):** The Nazi regime combined fascist ideology with extreme racism and anti-Semitism, leading to World War II and the Holocaust.

    – **Spain under Francisco Franco (1939–1975):** While Franco’s regime is sometimes described as authoritarian or nationalist, it shared many characteristics with fascism, including centralized control and suppression of dissent.

    – **Portugal under António de Oliveira Salazar (Estado Novo) (1932–1968):** Salazar’s regime was authoritarian and nationalist with some fascist elements, emphasizing traditional values and anti-communism.

    – **Hungary under Miklós Horthy and the Arrow Cross Party (early 1920s–1945):** Horthy’s regime leaned authoritarian, and the later Arrow Cross Party (1944–1945) was explicitly fascist and aligned with Nazi Germany.

    – **Romania under Ion Antonescu (1940–1944):** A military dictator who allied with Nazi Germany and led a government with fascist policies.

    – **Japan (1930s–1945):** While Japan’s government was militaristic and authoritarian during this period, it didn’t fully adopt Western-style fascism but shared similarities in nationalism and expansionism.

    These regimes varied in their specific policies and implementations but shared core elements of fascism such as authoritarian rule, nationalism, and the suppression of opposition.

    It’s important to note that the term “fascism” can be complex and interpretations vary among historians. Some regimes exhibit fascist traits without fully fitting the definition. Each regime had unique features shaped by their own historical and cultural contexts. ~H

  • Foraging and hunting wild foods

    Foraging and hunting wild foods

    🌿 Foraging for Wild Foods: A Natural Treasure Hunt! 🍄Did you know that some of the best, freshest ingredients are right outside your door? Foraging is an ancient practice that lets you connect with nature while discovering delicious, nutritious foods growing wild around you.

    Here are some common wild foods you can safely forage:🌱 **Wild Greens**: Dandelion greens, nettles, chickweed, and lamb’s quarters are packed with vitamins and perfect for salads or cooking. Remember to identify nettles carefully — wearing gloves helps!

    🍄**Edible Mushrooms**: Morels, chanterelles, and shiitake grow in many regions. Be absolutely certain of your identification before consuming; when in doubt, consult an expert!

    🍓 **Wild Berries**: Blackberries, raspberries, elderberries, and wild strawberries are seasonal delights full of antioxidants.

    🌰 **Nuts and Seeds**: Acorns (properly prepared), wild hazelnuts, and chestnuts can be gathered and enjoyed.

    🍯 **Wild Herbs**: Mint, wild garlic, and thyme add amazing flavors to your dishes.

    **Tips for Safe Foraging:**1. **Always identify your finds with 100% certainty.** Many plants and mushrooms have poisonous look-alikes.2. **Harvest sustainably.** Take only what you need and avoid damaging plants.3. **Avoid areas near roads or contaminated sites** to prevent pollution ingestion.4. **Educate yourself!** Use trusted guides, apps, or join foraging groups.Nature’s pantry is vast and waiting for you to explore. Happy foraging!

    🌿✨#Foraging #WildFood #Nature #HealthyLiving #FoodieTips #SustainableEating🦌

    Hunting Tip of the Day: What’s the Easiest Wild Game to Hunt? 🎯If you’re new to hunting or looking to sharpen your skills, starting with easier wild game can make all the difference! Here are some of the easiest wild game species to hunt:🌾

    **Rabbits & Hares** – Abundant and widespread, they’re great for beginners. Plus, their smaller size makes them manageable for first hunts.🦌

    **Squirrels** – Common in many wooded areas, squirrels offer a good challenge without being too difficult to track.

    🦃 **Turkeys** – While a bit trickier, turkeys are approachable with the right calls and strategies, making them a rewarding target.

    Remember, successful hunting isn’t just about the game — it’s about patience, preparation, and respecting nature. Start simple, learn the habits of your target species, and always prioritize safety.Happy hunting! 🦌🏹

    #HuntingTips #WildGame #OutdoorLife #BeginnerHunter

  • Budget Bites- Affordable Meal Recipes

    Eating well on a tight budget doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or fun. In fact, some of the most delicious and satisfying meals come from the simplest ingredients—and a little creativity in the kitchen! Welcome to **Budget Bites: Hilariously Cheap Recipes That Taste Like a Million Bucks!** In this blog post, we’ll share mouthwatering recipes that won’t break the bank but will have your taste buds dancing with delight. From clever hacks to unexpected flavor combos, get ready to discover how you can whip up gourmet-worthy dishes without emptying your wallet. Whether you’re a college student, a busy parent, or just someone looking to save a few bucks, these budget-friendly meals prove that eating well can be both affordable and downright fun!

    Looking for a ridiculously easy (and hilarious) recipe to add to your cheap foods cookbook? Try this one out! 😂

    **The “Whatever’s Left in the Fridge” Surprise**

    Ingredients:
    – Whatever canned beans you found hiding in the pantry
    – A sad-looking carrot or two (or any random veggies about to expire)
    – That half-eaten slice of cheese
    – A splash of ketchup, hot sauce, or whatever weird condiment you love
    – Optional: Leftover pasta, rice, or bread if you can find it

    Instructions:
    1. Throw all your “random finds” into a pan like you’re conducting a culinary experiment.
    2. Stir it up while humming your favorite song (the more off-key, the better).
    3. Let it simmer until it looks slightly more appetizing than before.
    4. Serve with the confidence of a gourmet chef—bonus points if you name it something fancy like “Fridge Surprise à la You.”

    Pro tip: Sometimes, the best cheap recipes are all about creativity and humor. Remember, cooking doesn’t have to be perfect to be delicious—or hilarious! 🍳😄


    **The “Oops, I Forgot to Shop” Pasta** 🍝

    Ingredients:
    – A handful of whatever noodles you find in your pantry (spaghetti, macaroni, shoe laces… kidding!)
    – One sad tomato (or ketchup if you really forgot to shop)
    – A sprinkle of that mystery spice you never use
    – Half an onion (if you’re feeling fancy)
    – Water (to boil the noodles, obviously)
    – A dash of “make it work” attitude

    Instructions:
    1️⃣ Boil the noodles. Or until they’re not crunchy. Your call!
    2️⃣ Chop the half onion like a ninja (or just throw it in chunks).
    3️⃣ Throw the sad tomato or ketchup in a pan and add a sprinkle of mystery spice – maybe paprika? Or cinnamon? What could go wrong?
    4️⃣ Toss the noodles and onions into the sauce. Stir like you mean it.
    5️⃣ Serve with a smile and prepare to pretend this was your plan all along.


    **”Instant Gourmet Ramen Upgrade”**

    Ingredients:
    – 1 pack of instant ramen noodles (the cheaper, the better!)
    – 1 egg (the miracle ingredient)
    – A handful of mystery frozen veggies (because why not?)
    – Soy sauce (or that random sauce you found in the back of your fridge)
    – Optional: 3-day-old takeout leftovers for added flavor adventure

    Steps:
    1. Boil water like you’re a gourmet chef starring in your own cooking show.
    2. Toss in the noodles and frozen veggies like a pro juggler.
    3. Crack that egg right in the pot — bonus points if you don’t get shell in the soup!
    4. Splash some soy sauce or fridge-found sauce like Picasso painting a masterpiece.
    5. Stir it all up and pretend you came up with this recipe on a Michelin-level brainstorm.
    6. Serve proudly with a side of laughter and a big appetite!


    Check out our collection of CHEAP & CHEERFUL recipes perfect for anyone on a budget – because saving money doesn’t mean saving on laughs or taste!

    From quirky ingredient combos to hilarious cooking hacks, this cookbook is your go-to guide for whipping up affordable meals with a side of humor.

    Stay tuned for recipes that are easy on your wallet and heavy on the fun! 💸🍔🤣

    #BudgetCooking #CheapEats #FunnyRecipes #CookingWithHumor #AffordableMeals #KitchenLaughs

  • Welcome to Hetty- My Story

    Hey, I’m Kyle Anderson. I decided to create this startup website to help relieve and reduce poverty and contribute to reducing the impact of social problems, because I experienced poverty and homelessness myself, and had my share of suffering. I help in ways that I can. Here is info about my background.

    I’m a middle aged Virgo, considered “Generation X.” I’m from Milwaukee originally, although I travel and been to over a 12 countries and parts of the US. I have 2 younger brothers, and have relatives mainly based in Wisconsin and Michigan. I have a young daughter and family currently living in an Eastern African country.

    I coped with poverty and homelessness in and out of my life. I’ve been homeless twice in my life, both times for several months. There were also days where I only had ramen, rice, oatmeal, hotdogs with sandwich bread, or snack chips as meals. However, I was fortunate enough to have resources available for me both times, including mental health therapy and social disability insurance. It turned out that I’m neurodivergent and have service connected tinnitus.

    I’m a disabled Air Force veteran, one of my conditions is high functioning autism. I suspect that I have ADHD also, but that hasn’t been properly diagnosed yet. I’m neurodivergent, left handed, a shy introvert, and can be creative. I like reading, pop culture, traveling, video games, and comedy. I feel more comfortable with technology, books, and animals than I do with many people. But don’t think I don’t care!

    I have an unconventional education. Years of public school education, a military apprenticeship in food and customer services, years of college education studying writing and information technology, and what education I received informally. I have dabbled in
    music, painting, cooking, baking, investing, robotics and electronics.

    Both of my parents have died from forms of cancer, so some articles will be related to the medical field, like eating affordable yet healthy meals.

    This website combines many of my special interests in food service, pop culture, history, science, philosophy, technology, and even comedy into a jumble, and many but not all of the articles are AI generated. One of my flaws is that I can be too shiftless for my own good. I tend to dabble and experiment in different fields, to see if I find a project that sticks and be successful. Donations to any money transfer app accounts are appreciated.

    CashApp: $KyleAnderson1973
    PayPal: @kyleanderson124
    Venmo: @Kyle-Anderson-508


    Feel free to contact me at < ky.anderson@live.com > for any requests and input. I will work on and evolve this website, because like me it’s a work in progress. Thank you, and may all of you have at least one great day in your lives.

  • Managing Screentime

    How do you manage screen time for yourself?

    If I do manage my screentime, I’ll either cook something to eat, sleep or nap, take a shower, go for a walk, or go to a public event. I go online mainly when I have free time yet, I’m bored. I don’t worry about the screen time so much, because being online has enriched my life in different ways. And I think I do more productive activities online than I do unproductive.

  • Edible Insects

    Edible Insects

    Edible insects have been a staple source of nutrition for many cultures around the world, offering a sustainable and protein-rich alternative to traditional meats.

    Some of the most commonly consumed edible insects include crickets, known for their nutty flavor and high protein content; mealworms, which are versatile and often roasted or ground into flour; grasshoppers, which are enjoyed fried or seasoned in many regions; locusts, prized in parts of Africa and the Middle East for their tender texture; cicadas, which emerge seasonally and are eaten toasted or fried; ants, particularly leafcutter and weaver ants, valued for their tangy taste; beetles, including their larvae like palm weevils and rhinoceros beetles, which are rich in fats and proteins; caterpillars such as mopane worms popular in Southern Africa; termites, harvested for their rich fat content; and silkworm pupae, a delicacy in East Asia.

    And, for the sweet tooths, we have the honeybee larvae, nature’s unexpected cupcake filling that’s creamy and packed with nutrients. So if you ever want to “bug out” in style, these edible insects are your go-to critters for a protein-packed, crunchy adventure – just maybe don’t invite everyone over for dinner!

    And of course, we can’t ignore the giant water bugs, which, despite their intimidating name, are like the juicy hamburgers of the insect world in some countries. So next time you’re looking for a snack with a bit of a buzz, why not give these critters a try? After all, who knew that a bug buffet could be the next gourmet sensation!

    While this list covers many of the well-known edible insects, there are hundreds of species consumed globally depending on local traditions and ecosystems, highlighting the vast and varied world of entomophagy.