Splattern

Splattern details the author's running and skiing adventures across Canada, emphasizing community, personal growth, and nature's beauty. It reflects on human connections, enduring physical challenges, and planning future endeavors like an Africa run. Gratitude and the importance of kindness and support are recurring themes.

Adventure Community Personal Growth Nature Physical Endurance Gratitude Kindness Future Plans

The hottest Substack posts of Splattern

And their main takeaways

Performance and Effort

0 implied HN points • 04 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Performance Art Dance Consciousness Creativity
  1. Performance doesn't have to feel like hard work. Sometimes, it can be more about living in the moment and enjoying the experience.
  2. In dance and life, it's possible to let go of unnecessary tension and just flow with the energy around you.
  3. Being fully present might not mean putting in more effort; it could actually be about inhibiting certain thoughts or actions to find a more relaxed state.

Back to Seattle and Off to Revelstoke

0 implied HN points • 19 Dec 23
🏝 Travel Adventure Outdoor Camping Travel planning Exploration
  1. The author feels excited yet anxious about returning to winter adventures after a break in the city. They are focusing on having fun instead of just pushing themselves to achieve more.
  2. During the trip, the author plans to test their winter camping setup and learn from their mentor, Dan. This will help them prepare for their bigger adventure starting January 1.
  3. The current weather conditions are surprising, with less snow and warmer temperatures than expected. The author is using the drive to observe the environment and gather information for their future plans.

Adventure Update: Baby Jogger Secured!

0 implied HN points • 24 Dec 23
🏝 Travel Adventure Running Fundraising Parenting Community
  1. A new baby jogger was secured, described as a high-quality stroller for running and outdoor activities. It's perfect for long-distance jogging on various terrains.
  2. The adventure involves running with the baby jogger over the next few months, with plans to take it one day at a time, starting with a route from Seattle to Whistler, averaging 20 miles a day.
  3. There's a fundraiser linked to the run for GiveDirectly, which supports giving cash directly to the poor, allowing them to decide how to use the funds for their needs.

Building a women’s hostel

0 implied HN points • 08 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Charity Community Health Adventure Women
  1. A women's hostel is being built to provide a place for mothers of children receiving treatment at the Shoe 4 Africa hospital. This will help reduce expenses and ensure that parents can stay close to their kids during treatment.
  2. Running a long distance will help raise money for the hostel. The goal is to collect $600,000, and collecting donations from many people can make a big difference.
  3. The Shoe 4 Africa hospital serves a large area with many patients in need. It not only provides medical care but also plays a key role in the community by helping fight treatment abandonment due to costs.
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Deadline and Redline

0 implied HN points • 23 Oct 23
🕹 Technology Software Development Team Dynamics Work Culture Productivity
  1. Friendship and support can really help during stressful times. When you lose something important like your laptop, it's great to have friends who can lend a hand.
  2. Working relationships matter, and they can help boost productivity. Sometimes informal chats during meetings can lead to faster approvals and better understanding.
  3. It's okay to have tough days, but focusing on the positives can shift your mindset. Embracing nature and good company after a weary week can really uplift your spirits.

SoMassage

0 implied HN points • 06 Sep 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Fitness Nutrition Mental health Personal Growth Mindfulness
  1. Focusing on running from your core can help improve your running form and speed. Leaning forward lets gravity assist you, making it easier to run better.
  2. Using specific running mantras can enhance your performance. Things like nasal breathing, good posture, and pelvic alignment can make a big difference.
  3. Investing in personal growth is important for career development. Sometimes it helps to prioritize learning, even when there's work to do.

The Amazon Pivot Program

0 implied HN points • 12 Sep 23
💼 Business Corporate culture Employee Relations Performance Management Human Resources
  1. The Amazon Pivot Program offers employees a tough choice: you can either accept a severance package and leave or try to improve performance in a month.
  2. Feedback about performance comes from managers and peers, but it can be unclear how it specifically affects the decision to enter the Pivot Program.
  3. Deciding whether to stay and fight or take the severance depends on personal goals, learning opportunities, and the work environment you want.

Lake Manyara and Serengeti National Parks

0 implied HN points • 17 Jun 24
🏝 Travel Adventure Nature Wildlife Cultural experience Fundraising
  1. Elephants are amazing creatures and play a huge role in their environment by helping to shape the land. They can communicate over long distances and even help create watering holes.
  2. The relationship between whistling acacia trees and cocktail ants is really interesting. The ants protect the tree from being eaten while getting a home in return.
  3. Zebras have a unique way of conserving energy by resting on each other's backs. This also helps them keep an eye out for predators.

Sidelined

0 implied HN points • 18 Jul 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Healthcare Treatment Medicine Infection Alternative Medicine
  1. Getting hurt can change your plans quickly. The author had to cancel a climb after realizing their toe pain was serious.
  2. Traditional medicine, like using salt and garlic, can be common in some places. Local knowledge can be really useful for treating injuries.
  3. Accessing healthcare can be different in other countries. In Africa, it's possible to get treatment for very low costs, but it might involve long waits.

The Future of Cloud Computing

0 implied HN points • 23 Dec 23
🕹 Technology Cloud Computing Innovation Startups Distributed Systems Business strategy
  1. Big tech cloud companies like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud don't really foster innovation. They were built on existing technology, and their focus is more on business strategies than improving their tech.
  2. These companies have lost many of their original experienced employees. This means current workers might not have the skills needed to innovate in a fast-moving tech world.
  3. Startups are emerging with new models that can offer better pricing and solutions for cloud computing. This could threaten the big tech clouds and change the landscape of cloud services.

Ecuador: The Hotel Owner, Guide, Shaman, and Old-Timer

0 implied HN points • 13 Oct 22
🏝 Travel Cultural experiences Adventure Travel Personal narratives
  1. The hotel owner discusses sexual abuse, emphasizing that it often happens within families and can take years for victims to speak out. Her experiences have shaped her view of safety and trust in familial settings.
  2. The shaman teaches about connecting with one's inner truth, and the importance of being grateful for life lessons. Preparing for spiritual ceremonies is seen as a form of self-respect and celebration.
  3. The old-timer reflects on his climbing adventures and discusses how American tourists often treat cultural experiences as mere checkboxes. He believes understanding and honoring local cultures is essential.

Some Theories for/from Dancing

0 implied HN points • 22 Aug 21
🎭️ Culture Dance Performance Empathy Self Social Interaction
  1. Dancing is often a selfish act that brings focus to oneself, allowing the dancer to feel lost in their own body. It's okay to explore this self-centeredness and let go of the fear of being perceived as selfish.
  2. Empathy can be practiced in dancing by mirroring others' movements, including their struggles. By doing this, dancers become more aware of their own bodies and can connect with others on a deeper level.
  3. Social dancing is about connection and validation, where dancers support each other rather than compete. It's important to balance taking care of one's own energy while engaging with others through eye contact and smiles.

Dear Diary/Dairy

0 implied HN points • 01 Dec 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Nutrition Sustainability Obesity Food Systems
  1. Poor nutrition is a serious health issue in the US, causing more deaths than smoking. Processed and fast foods are major contributors to this problem.
  2. Just over a quarter of Americans manage to maintain a healthy weight despite the odds. This suggests that some people are successfully prioritizing good nutrition and exercise.
  3. Switching to organic farming might not fix our environmental problems. Reducing dairy and meat consumption could be more effective for lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

Social overload

0 implied HN points • 25 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Social life Community Networking Recreation Self-Expression
  1. Meeting new people can lead to surprising connections, like finding out someone lives close by or has a cool job. It's interesting how socially active situations can turn into networking opportunities.
  2. Physical activities like running or dancing can be tiring but also very energizing. Engaging with others in these activities can create joyful moments, even if you're not feeling your best.
  3. Speaking up in social settings can help you feel more connected and included. Even a simple request like asking for a ride can change how others see you in the group.

Morning / Routine

0 implied HN points • 06 Dec 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Routine Mental health Productivity Behaviorism Lifestyle
  1. A morning routine can start off helpful but may become overwhelming if you add too many activities. It's important to keep it simple so it remains effective.
  2. The main goal of a morning routine is to help you start your day quickly and focus on what's most important to you. For some, that could be meditating or writing.
  3. Having a structured schedule, like B.F. Skinner’s strict routine, can actually give you more freedom and productivity. Finding the right balance between structure and flexibility is key.

Big Cow

0 implied HN points • 27 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Environmental Impact Political Tensions
  1. In India, a group called the Holy Cowboys is dedicated to rescuing cows and punishing those who harm them. They see cows as important symbols in their culture and history.
  2. The cow is a significant point of debate in the USA, dividing people into two groups: those who support cattle farming and those who advocate for reducing meat and dairy consumption for environmental reasons.
  3. The conflict over the cow reflects broader tensions, and it may lead to serious debates in the future, emphasizing how food choices can impact social and political issues.

Monkey Loft

0 implied HN points • 02 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Social life Dance Relationships Self-Improvement Personal Growth
  1. Getting stung by hornets can be painful, but responding with both fight and flight can help you tackle scary situations.
  2. Dancing alone can feel freeing, and it allows you to connect with others without the pressure of performing.
  3. It's okay to be hesitant when asking for someone's number; the important part is to engage and have a genuine conversation.

I’m sexy and I know it

0 implied HN points • 16 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Dance Self-Expression Relationships Personal Growth Artistry
  1. Confidence can create a cycle where feeling sexy boosts self-esteem, making you feel and appear even sexier.
  2. Dancing can be a way to connect deeply with others, allowing for fun while embracing vulnerability and being present.
  3. Consent and respect in physical interactions enhance comfort and enjoyment, leading to positive experiences in social settings.

Local Food, Small Farms, and Verbal Behavior

0 implied HN points • 05 Jul 21
🍲 Food & Drink Local Food Farming Sustainability Agriculture
  1. Local food tastes better, and people are willing to pay for it once they try it. This creates business opportunities, but the market is crowded now.
  2. Small farms are becoming more popular because they can be more productive and sustainable than large farms. There's a trend of people getting into farming as a hobby.
  3. There's a debate about whether verbal behavior is the highest form of consciousness. Some thinkers suggest there are levels of consciousness beyond just words.

Godel and Chabad

0 implied HN points • 07 Jul 21
📖 Philosophy Mathematics Religion Infinity Spirituality Existence
  1. Chabad believes that God is everywhere and always present. This idea emphasizes that God existed even before the universe began.
  2. Godel's proof suggests that any system can't truly understand itself from the inside. To gain insight, you have to look at a bigger system, but then you're still in the same situation.
  3. Math and religion share thoughts about infinity, but in math, it's a puzzle to solve, while in religion, it's essential for understanding existence. This might be the deeper connection explored in the book G.E.B.

Rules

0 implied HN points • 01 Aug 21
🎭️ Culture Rules Freedom Creativity Ethics Decision-making Community
  1. Rules can create freedom by providing structure in life. They allow people to focus on what matters and enjoy life more fully.
  2. Understanding that knowledge is always evolving can help us grow. We shouldn't rely on authority but be open to changing our ideas as we learn more.
  3. The key to making decisions is being able to explain your reasoning. It's more important to consider your choices and share your thoughts than to follow strict rules.

Prison

0 implied HN points • 08 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Criminal Justice Mental health Prison System Social Issues Public Policy
  1. Prisons in the US are now the biggest places for mental healthcare, highlighting a sad reality about how we treat mental health issues.
  2. In some remote villages in Alaska, when locals are suddenly taken to prison, it can really upset the whole community, especially if the person has never left their home before.
  3. Prison life can be tough, and some inmates actually prefer being inside because it feels safer to them, even if it means committing crimes just to go back.

Models: some thoughts

0 implied HN points • 10 Aug 23
🕹 Technology AI Models Data Innovation Trade
  1. Models are useful tools for gaining insights, but they depend heavily on the assumptions behind them. If the assumptions are wrong, the model won't be helpful.
  2. When you act on a model's predictions, you can actually change the market dynamics, which can impact the model's effectiveness.
  3. It's better to use models for exploration and creativity, rather than relying on them to make decisions for us in most cases. They can help us understand ourselves and our ideas better.

Reflections on Strange Loop 2023

0 implied HN points • 25 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Conferences Software AI Engineering Collaboration
  1. Attending the Strange Loop conference opened up a lot of career options and sparked a sense of curiosity about the future. This experience has helped build confidence in exploring different paths beyond Amazon.
  2. Martin Kleppmann presented an interesting new algorithm for collaborative text editing. It allows for better version control and could improve the way edits are managed in various industries, like publishing.
  3. Randall Munroe, the creator of XKCD, shared his success story and emphasized the importance of sharing work with a Creative Commons license. His approach to making his comics accessible for free has helped him gain wide recognition and publicity.

How many seconds in a day

0 implied HN points • 05 Oct 23
🍲 Food & Drink Cooking Dining Recipes Events Emotions
  1. Having fun moments with friends, like at a dumpling party, can make for great memories and help to unwind after busy times.
  2. When things get tough at work, it’s okay to ask for help and communicate your feelings with your team.
  3. Managing your emotions, like anger, is important for peace of mind, and finding ways to laugh can be a good strategy.

A very sick love letter

0 implied HN points • 25 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Relationships Personal Growth Dreams Health Narrative
  1. Being sick can make you reflect on your relationships and feelings deeply. It's important to take the time to express your thoughts to those you care about.
  2. Connecting emotionally is essential before building a romantic relationship. Trying exercises like eye-gazing can help explore those feelings.
  3. Listening to different perspectives on work-life balance can open your eyes to how people live around the world. Conversations can lead to valuable insights about happiness and stress.

Steamboat springs

0 implied HN points • 12 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior Personal Growth Emotional Intelligence Friendship Entertainment
  1. Engaging people with eye contact, a smile, and humor really improves interactions. It can turn a good moment into a great one.
  2. It's important to recognize and challenge negative thoughts. You don’t have to believe every thought that comes to mind.
  3. You can enjoy dancing and socializing without alcohol. Sometimes moving your body is enough to help you feel loose and happy.