What Dere Are You

Oh my gosh, yes! Critical Role Campaign 4 is coming, and it's going to be a total game-changer! 🎉 For the first time ever, Matthew Mercer is stepping back from the Game Master role, and the incredibly talented Brennan Lee Mulligan is taking over! This was announced during the "Oaths and Ash" live show in Indianapolis on August 2, 2025. But that's not all—this campaign is set in a brand-new world, not Exandria, and it's launching on October 2, 2025! 🗓️ The new campaign will premiere on Critical Role's Beacon platform, as well as on YouTube and Twitch. While the game system hasn't been officially confirmed yet, there's speculation that it might be "Daggerheart," Critical Role's own system, rather than D&D 5E. As for the cast, we know Matthew Mercer will be joining as a player, but the rest of the cast is still under wraps.

I fell for the cozy, slightly ridiculous premise of 'How to Lose a Goblin in Ten Days' the moment I read the blurb — and the goblin at the heart of it is named Ren. Ren is the goblin who’s been caring for the cottage that Pansy believes she inherited, and their clash-turned-roommate-arrangement is the engine of the whole story. That forced-proximity setup leads to a lot of tender, awkward, and quietly funny moments, because Ren isn’t a cardboard monster; they’re thoughtful, expert with plants, and carrying complicated loyalties to their goblin clan. Reading it felt like curling up with a warm, slightly mossy blanket — Ren’s personality is grumpy-sunshine in the best way: prickly, principled, and secretly mushy once trust forms. The book frames Ren as more than a foil; they’re a whole person with history and stakes, which matters because the plot pits halfling tradition against goblin community needs. That tension makes Ren’s choices feel meaningful across the romance and the wider conflict, and I came away wanting more scenes where Ren trains or tends plants or just grumbles while making tea. I loved how the story treats Ren’s identity and responsibilities with care rather than as a punchline.

One of the standout easy reader books captivating kindergarteners this year is 'Elephant & Piggie' by Mo Willems. The series features delightful and relatable stories centered around two best friends. The simple yet engaging language and expressive illustrations really help kids connect with the characters. I’ve seen the joy on my little cousin's face as she reads these books over and over, laughing at the antics of the characters. It’s also heartwarming how these stories touch on friendship and problem-solving, providing great lessons for young minds. The 'Pete the Cat' series by James Dean and Eric Litwin is another big hit. Kids just love Pete's cool adventures and catchy tunes! The vibrant illustrations paired with rhythmic text encourage participation, making storytime a blast. It’s so wonderful to see kindergartners singing along and having fun while learning to read. It's amazing how these characters can turn even the most mundane experiences into something exciting, like getting dressed in the morning. Lastly, 'Dog Man' by Dav Pilkey has quickly captured the attention of many young readers. The comic-style layout speaks volumes to kids who enjoy both stories and illustrations. The humor and silly situations never fail to evoke a giggle or two at story time. I mean, who wouldn’t want to read about a half-dog, half-man superhero saving the day? As a reading enthusiast, I can’t help but enjoy all the creative storytelling happening in these books!

Throughout history, black cats have garnered a rather notorious reputation across various cultures, often closely tied to superstition and fate. To kick things off, in many parts of Europe, particularly during the Medieval period, black cats were associated with witches. People believed that these creatures were either witches' familiars or witches themselves transformed into cats as part of their dark magic. It was thought that encountering a black cat could herald misfortune or calamity, leading to widespread fear and misunderstanding. This deeply rooted belief brought about tragic consequences for countless innocent cats, who fell victim to this misguided perception, often facing persecution or worse. Interestingly, this idea of black cats as omens wasn't universally accepted. In some cultures, particularly in parts of the UK and Japan, they are seen more favorably. In Japanese folklore, for instance, black cats are considered lucky and are often said to bring good fortune. A legend even suggests that they symbolize prosperity, particularly if one crosses your path. It seems like a fascinating reversal, right? In fact, cat lovers in Japan often embrace black cats as good luck charms, emphasizing the need to break away from the negative connotations. Exploring the theme further, sailors in the 1800s believed that if a black cat appeared on board, it signaled impending doom. However, they also thought that if the cat was well-fed and treated kindly, it could ward off danger. Despite the pervasive narrative of misfortune, black cats undeniably hold an intriguing duality. The cultural differences in interpreting their symbolism are a compelling reflection of how belief systems can vary greatly, leading to the same animal embodying both bad luck and good fortune depending on where you are in the world. This duality makes black cats particularly fascinating to me. It’s a reminder that perspectives can vary widely, and something often dismissed as unlucky might just be viewed as a sign of impending wealth elsewhere. Additionally, it also prompts a reflection on how cultural contexts shape our understanding of everything around us. So the next time I spot a black cat, I’ll be sure to consider its unique story and the numerous cultures that shape its destiny.

Man, 'Indian Givers' by Jack Weatherford is such an eye-opener! The book dives deep into how Indigenous peoples of the Americas shaped the modern world, and it highlights some incredible figures. One standout is Tupac Amaru II, the revolutionary leader who fought against Spanish colonial rule in Peru. His rebellion was a defining moment in resistance history. Then there’s Hiawatha, the legendary co-founder of the Iroquois Confederacy, whose political vision influenced democratic ideas centuries later. Another key figure is Sequoyah, the Cherokee genius who created a writing system for his people—talk about innovation! The book also sheds light on lesser-known but equally impactful individuals, like the anonymous Native farmers who cultivated crops like maize and potatoes, which literally fed the world. It’s wild how much we owe to these unsung heroes. Reading about their contributions left me in awe—history classes barely scratch the surface of this legacy.

I've always been drawn to the darker side of storytelling, and true crime novels are my guilty pleasure. One series that absolutely gripped me is 'The Devil in the White City' by Erik Larson, which intertwines the chilling tale of H.H. Holmes with the 1893 World's Fair. The meticulous research and haunting narrative style make it unforgettable. Another standout is 'I'll Be Gone in the Dark' by Michelle McNamara, a deeply personal and investigative journey into the Golden State Killer case. The way McNamara blends her obsession with the case and her own life is both heartbreaking and fascinating. For something more contemporary, 'American Predator' by Maureen Callahan delves into the horrifying crimes of Israel Keyes, a serial killer who redefined how we think about modern evil. These books aren't just about the crimes; they explore the psychology of the perpetrators and the impact on victims, making them profoundly human stories.

I still get a kick out of how big-screen action like 'Bang Bang!' trickles down to streaming — it’s never a single moment. The film opened in theaters on 2 October 2014, and from there the digital lifecycle started. Usually a Bollywood theatrical release like that goes to digital purchase/rental (Google Play, iTunes, YouTube Movies) a few weeks to a couple of months after cinemas, so many people saw 'Bang Bang!' available to buy or rent by late 2014 or early 2015. Subscription streaming is a different beast: those deals depend on the distributor and regional licensing. For 'Bang Bang!' the subscription-OTT window tended to arrive later — often several months to a year after the rental release. So you’d commonly see it land on services like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, or regional platforms sometime in 2015–2016 depending on where you live. I actually remember spotting it pop up on a friend’s streaming queue a year or so after the theatrical run, which fits that timeline. If you need the exact day for a specific platform, check the platform’s “added on” metadata or use trackers like JustWatch or Reelgood, or look up press releases from the film’s distributor. Those sources will give you the definitive date per service and region. For a quick try, search "'Bang Bang!' added to [service name]" — that usually turns up the exact listing or news blurb. It’s a little detective work, but fun if you’re a film-binge planner like me.

Embarking on a 90-day adventure is an exhilarating thought that brings with it a kaleidoscope of challenges. First off, let’s talk about the sheer logistics involved. Whether it’s a road trip across different states or backpacking through countries, planning every detail—where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around—is pivotal. Missing out even on the tiniest detail can lead to wild hiccups. Picture this: you’re cruising down a scenic route, and suddenly you realize you forgot to book a place to sleep in a popular destination. If you haven’t learned how to pivot quickly, things can get pretty frantic. Alongside the planning, balancing spontaneity is tricky. There’s a thrill in going with the flow and discovering hidden gems, but that spontaneity can bite you too. I once found this incredible local festival when I was supposed to be somewhere else entirely! But hey, adventure means embracing the unexpected, right? The key is finding that sweet spot where you allow for exploration while still having a rough itinerary to rely on. Plus, on a personal level, the emotional roller coaster can be overwhelming. Being away from home, even in the most beautiful places, can bring bouts of homesickness or loneliness. Shared experiences with fellow travelers can help, whether it's swapping stories by a campfire or sharing snacks on a train. Friendships formed while wandering the globe often turn into cherished memories, making those moments of loneliness fade away. Also, don’t underestimate the importance of self-care on longer journeys. It’s easy to push yourself to see as much as possible, but taking time to recharge is essential too. If there's anything I’ve learned, it’s that meaningful adventures aren’t just about the destinations but the experiences along the way. Facing these challenges makes a 90-day adventure not just a series of events, but a rich tapestry of growth and self-discovery. There’s beauty in overcoming difficulties, and if you embrace the ride, every challenge can morph into a story worth telling.