text: Hey everyone! So I've been sick the past two days and that is why I haven't posted my daily prompt responses yet. But I plan to upload the missing prompts promptly (see what I did there, hehe, I feel so clever). For now, here is today's post. I hope you enjoy it!
  Every day we pass judgement upon the people we hear, see, and meet. We think they must be this and they are that – this and that, of course, representing the labels we give others with no regard for who they all are. Human.
  I once witnessed a performance art piece during which a young lady stood in the center of a room in nondescript baggy sweats and a hoodie. On her clothes were pinned labels. She just stood there and let people read the labels and examine her from all angles. She didn’t speak or move. And upon the labels: slut, too skinny, asking for it, etc. Later, after the performance, I would learn that those labels were the ones others had given her.
  After some time, she removed her sweats and hoodie to reveal a tank and shorts with more labels attached with words like quirky, beautiful, and fun. She later told me these were the labels she gave herself; “what's on the inside,” she said. What nagged at me most was why didn’t she wear those labels on the outside? Figuratively speaking, of course. It wouldn’t come to me until later, but the answer is: she did. Every day. But just because she wore them, didn’t mean people saw them. Instead others gave her labels they thought appropriate. They formed preemptive opinions without her input or regard for her feelings towards their labels. Guys cat called her, her family tried to put some meat on her bones. But her skinniness wasn’t a grab for attention or self-inflicted harm. She was merely athletic with a high metabolism rate. Merely a girl who loved sports and hanging out with her friends. Unfortunately, not everyone saw that. Instead they judged her by the labels they thoughtlessly gave her.
  Now I just want to say, I’m no hypocrite. I know that I’m just as guilty of this kind of labeling as the next person is. And I want to recognize that judging one another is something we as humans will most likely always do. It’s a defense mechanism that has served many of us well, keeping us out of trouble. But in today’s society, it has harmed as many as it has helped. So I implore you, be mindful when judging others. Remember that they are human, just like you. They have their own insecurities and rollercoaster pasts. Just as you do. And, even though this has been said many times, many ways, I feel that we all need to hear it again: treat other how you wish to be treated. Be gentle, find new positive labels, and judge as you wish to be judged.
  Mariah Renae, Non-FictionMariah Renae March 9, 2018 just human, life, complicated, judgement, prompt, march 2018, daily, body image, labels, gentle, non-fictionComment
  Mariah RenaeMariah Renae March 6, 2018 family, photo, reunion, relationships, love, friendship, life, march 2018
  Everyone loves having their own backyard pool. Not only does it offer fun for the whole family, but a pool also enhances the appeal and value of your property. However, a pool is just like any other piece of equipment. It needs periodic maintenance to keep working properly. Because it's outside, the pool gets exposed to the elements which results in a wide variety of issues, both cosmetic and serious.
  The good news is that almost all problems with a pool are repairable. There are some small, basic touch-ups that the average homeowners should have no problem tackling by themselves. For more serious repairs, however, you may need to contact a professional pool repair service like Sunset Pools and Spas. They offer emergency pool maintenance in Chicago and can provide you with services such as structural repairs, tile replacement, and winterization. Find out which pool problems you can fix yourself and which need a professional below.
  Mild Cleaning Keeping your pool in good order is a simple task if it's done frequently. Skim away any debris, use a pool cover when not in use, and periodically clean away debris buildup from the bottom of the pool. This helps extend the time between professional deep-cleaning visits.
  Clean and Maintain Filters The filter is one of the most important components of a pool. You'll notice an immediate decrease in the cleanliness and quality of the water if the filter is worn out, broken, or clogged. Identify what type of filter you have (DE, sand, or cartridge) and follow the maintenance instructions for that model.
  Catch Cracks Early It can be alarming to see any cracks on the edges of your pool or between the tile and your deck. However, if you notice them when they first appear you can caulk them with clear silicon. This will create a water-tight patch that prevents moisture from getting in under the deck and leading to more serious problems.
  Seasonal Maintenance Such As Winterization and Spring Cleaning Keeping your pool in good order is a simple task if it's done frequently. Skim away any debris, use a pool cover when not in use, and periodically clean away debris buildup from the bottom of the pool. This helps extend the time between professional deep-cleaning visits.
  Replacing Broken or Outdated Equipment No matter how well a pump, filter, or other pool component is made, it will eventually wear out. Don't risk trying to replace it on your own. You might end up damaging your pool or even harming yourself. A professional pool service will replace old parts quickly and safely, and they can also advise you on any new upgrades on the market like self-running cleaners or automated controls.
  A Major Facelift for Your Pool Even a well-maintained pool will eventually start to look a little shabby. Sunset Pools and Spas offers renovation services such as interior resurfacing, upgrading new decking with the latest styles, and adding attractive new features like bubblers and fountains.