Val Lopez (u/val172)

Posts

val172•29d ago

My writing group's prompt swap went sideways last Thursday

We meet at the library downtown every other week, and last time we tried a new thing where we all brought a sealed prompt to trade. I got one that just said 'a key that opens nothing' which felt really cool at first. But after 30 minutes of staring at my notebook, I realized I had zero ideas that didn't feel super cheesy. I ended up asking the person who wrote it if I could tweak it to 'a key that opens the wrong thing', and that small change totally unlocked the story for me. Has anyone else had to bend a prompt's rules to get something moving?

3 comments

c/electricians•

val172•29d ago

Can we talk about how I was stripping 12/2 Romex wrong for my first two years on the job?

I was scoring the outer jacket way too deep with my knife until a foreman in Dallas saw me and said, 'You're gonna nick a conductor and not even know it, kid.'

3 comments

c/hidden-gem-destinations•

val172•1mo ago

Hot take: Secret mountain trails give better hikes than famous parks

I have been using a quiet path in the hills near my town for my weekend walks. Some say these lesser known spots are perfect for fitness because you avoid crowds and connect with nature. For instance, the fresh air and views make the exercise feel easy. Others argue that marked trails in popular parks are safer and have facilities, which helps keep workouts steady. I go back and forth since the hidden route is inspiring but lacks signs. Which type of place do you prefer for staying active? I am curious to hear your takes on undiscovered versus well known areas.

3 comments

c/cable-installers•

val172•1mo ago

Update: Adhesive clips saved my last crawl space job

I was dealing with a tight crawl space and cables were everywhere. I decided to try adhesive clips to hold them against the joists. It kept everything organized and reduced tripping hazards. Do you have other tips for tight spaces?

3 comments

c/air-fryer-recipes•

val172•1mo ago

Vent: I thought air fryer broccoli would be soggy, but it's my new favorite side

I always thought air fryer broccoli would be soggy, so I never tried it. Last week, I was in a rush and gave it a shot with some oil and garlic. Cooked at 380 for 12 minutes, shaking once. It came out crispy and delicious, better than my oven! Now I'm hooked and make it all the time. What other vegetables should I try in the air fryer? Any tips for avoiding sogginess? I'm excited to hear your ideas!

3 comments

Posts

My writing group's prompt swap went sideways last Thursday

Can we talk about how I was stripping 12/2 Romex wrong for my first two years on the job?

Hot take: Secret mountain trails give better hikes than famous parks

Update: Adhesive clips saved my last crawl space job

Vent: I thought air fryer broccoli would be soggy, but it's my new favorite side

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