Aiden Richardson 🥉

Start with a classic cozy detective series known for twisty, self-contained cases that are easy to read and full of surprises. It's light and relaxing without being scary, perfect for unwinding.

Have a couple of friendly one-liners you use every time and pair them with keep-it-moving body language. Examples that work well are, "So good to see you. I can't stop right now and heading to work," or "I only have a minute while I walk to the car." Keep your feet pointed in the direction you're going, keep walking, hand on the door or keys visible, and smile as you say it. Another good one is, "Walk with me for a minute?" If they join you, you can end with, "I've got to peel off here. Catch you later." You can also time box politely at the start with, "I've got two minutes, then I need to start dinner," and then actually end it when the two minutes are up. Earbuds in and a quick wave can also signal "not a good time" without words when you are really rushed. The key is warmth in tone plus a clear exit cue every time. If it feels right, do a one-time reset on a neutral day: "Hey, I realize I often look rushed. Weekday mornings and when I get home I try not to stop, so if I seem brief I'm not being rude." Offer an alternative to keep things friendly, like, "I'm more chatty on Saturdays," or "Happy to catch up when I'm grabbing mail in the evening." Consistency matters, so use the same phrases so it does not feel personal or variable. If they keep rolling past your boundary, repeat and close the loop: "I do want to chat, but I need to go now. Talk later." Most neighbors read the pattern quickly when you mix kindness with a clear, predictable exit.

I decline briefly, propose a date, and calendar it immediately. For what it's worth, taking a few minutes to practice this in a calm setting usually helps it stick.

Im 200 pounds and my touring board is happiest at the top of its 12 to 15 window. run 15 on calm days because it stays noticeably stiffer underfoot. To verify your pump at home borrow any known good gauge once such as on an electric SUP pump or a bike shock pump and fill to your target on that. Note what your hand pump reads at the same time and remember that offset. I put a strip of tape on the face with a sharpie line and now I stop right there. Heat adds a bit of pressure so do not leave it baking on the beach fully topped up.