Alice Voss

10/26/2024

As countryside

10/13/2024

09/19/2024

North Korea recently announced that it successfully test-fired a new tactical ballistic missile capable of carrying a "super-large" warhead. The missile, named Hwasongpho-11-Da-4.5, was equipped with a 4.5-ton conventional warhead. The test was conducted by North Korea's Missile Administration and was overseen by leader Kim Jong Un.

The missile test aimed to demonstrate the ability to hit targets up to 320 kilometers (200 miles) away, which suggests that South Korean assets could be potential targets. This test is part of North Korea's ongoing efforts to enhance its conventional and nuclear weapons capabilities in response to perceived external threats.

09/19/2024

The Federal Reserve recently made headlines by cutting interest rates by 0.50 percentage points. This is the first rate cut since the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. The decision was driven by signs of moderating inflation and a weakening labor market. The new federal funds rate now ranges between 4.75% and 5%.

This move aims to ease borrowing costs for consumers and businesses, impacting everything from mortgages to credit cards. The Fed's goal is to balance inflation and employment targets while avoiding a significant increase in unemployment.

How do you feel about this rate cut? Do you think it will help the economy?

09/17/2024

The new XEC Covid variant, a hybrid of previously discovered Omicron subvariants KS.1.1 and KP.3.3, is starting to spread and could become the dominant strain12. First identified in Germany in June, cases have since emerged in the UK, US, Denmark, and several other countries23.

Key Points:
Spread: The XEC variant is spreading rapidly across Europe, North America, and Asia.
Mutations: It has new mutations that might help it spread more effectively this autumn.
Symptoms: Symptoms are similar to previous Covid variants, including high temperature, aches, tiredness, cough, and sore throat.
Vaccines: Current vaccines should still help prevent severe cases, although they may not be specifically tailored to XEC.
Growth: Strong growth has been observed in Denmark and Germany, with significant cases also reported in the UK and Netherlands.

09/17/2024

The U.S. Federal Reserve is expected to announce an interest rate cut tomorrow, marking its first rate cut in over four years1. This decision comes amid ongoing economic uncertainties and is anticipated to provide some relief to markets and borrowers. The size of the rate cut is still under debate, with some analysts predicting a 0.25% reduction, while others suggest a more significant 0.5% cut.

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is likely to maintain a cautious stance during the press conference, leaving room for potential further rate cuts if economic conditions warrant.

09/17/2024

U.S. officials are heading to Beijing to address concerns over the influx of cheap Chinese exports flooding the American market. This visit aims to discuss trade imbalances and the impact of these exports on U.S. industries. The officials are expected to negotiate measures to ensure fair trade practices and protect domestic businesses from being undercut by low-cost imports from China.

09/17/2024

Successful people often have a set of daily habits that help them stay productive, focused, and motivated. Here are some common habits:

1. Wake Up Early: Many successful people start their day early to maximize their productivity and have quiet time for planning and reflection.
2. Exercise Regularly: Physical activity is crucial for maintaining energy levels and mental clarity.
3. Set Daily Goals: They often make a to-do list or set specific goals for the day to stay organized and focused.
4. Read and Learn Continuously: Successful individuals dedicate time to reading and learning to stay informed and inspired.
5. Practice Gratitude: Taking time to reflect on what they are grateful for helps maintain a positive mindset.
6. Network and Build Relationships: They invest time in building and maintaining professional and personal relationships.
7. Stay Organized: Keeping their workspace and schedule organized helps them stay on top of tasks and reduces stress.
8. Take Breaks: Regular breaks are essential to avoid burnout and maintain productivity throughout the day.
9. Reflect and Plan: At the end of the day, they often reflect on what they accomplished and plan for the next day.
10. Prioritize Health: Eating healthy, getting enough sleep, and managing stress are key components of their routine.

09/17/2024

Sure! Here's a fusion recipe that combines the best of Italian and Japanese cuisines: Miso Carbonara with Tempura Vegetables.

Ingredients:
For the Miso Carbonara:
- 200g spaghetti
- 100g pancetta or guanciale, diced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon white miso paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Tempura Vegetables:
- 1 cup assorted vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, sweet potatoes), sliced
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold sparkling water
- 1 egg yolk
- Oil for frying
- Salt to taste

Instructions:

Miso Carbonara:
1. Cook the Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. Prepare the Pancetta: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook until crispy. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and miso paste until smooth.
4. Combine: Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan with the pancetta and garlic. Remove the pan from heat and quickly pour in the egg mixture, stirring constantly to create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tempura Vegetables:
1. Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, mix the flour, cold sparkling water, and egg yolk until just combined. The batter should be slightly lumpy.
2. Heat the Oil: In a deep pan, heat the oil to 180°C (350°F).
3. Fry the Vegetables: Dip the vegetable slices into the batter, then carefully place them into the hot oil. Fry until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels. Season with salt.

Serving:
- Plate the miso carbonara and top with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve the tempura vegetables on the side with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as soy sauce or a light ponzu.

Enjoy your Italian-Japanese fusion meal! 🍝🍤

Would you like any more fusion recipes or tips on cooking techniques?

09/17/2024

Eating

09/17/2024

Angkor Wat is an iconic temple complex located in Siem Reap, Cambodia. It is renowned as the largest religious monument in the world, covering an area of 162.6 hectares (402 acres). Built in the early 12th century by the Khmer King Suryavarman II, it was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu but later transformed into a Buddhist temple.

The architecture of Angkor Wat is a stunning example of classical Khmer style, featuring a combination of the temple-mountain and galleried temple designs. The central structure is designed to represent Mount Meru, the home of the gods in Hindu mythology, and is surrounded by a vast moat and an outer wall. The temple is famous for its intricate bas-reliefs and devatas (guardian spirits) that adorn its walls.

Angkor Wat has remained a significant religious center since its foundation and is a symbol of Cambodia, even appearing on the national flag. It attracts millions of visitors each year, drawn by its grandeur and historical significance.

Have you had a chance to visit Angkor Wat, or is it on your travel list?