Diet Coke isn't just Coke without sugar

I’ve started noticing Diet Coke more—not because of its iconic silver can, but because of an unexpected source: President Trump. During his diplomatic trip to Saudi Arabia, it was widely reported that he preferred Diet Coke over coffee. That odd detail stuck with me, and eventually, my curiosity got the better of me.

Not Just a Sugar-Free Coke

Like many people, I had always assumed Diet Coke was simply regular Coca-Cola with the sugar swapped for artificial sweeteners. But after doing a bit of research, I discovered that Diet Coke is actually based on an entirely different formula. It isn’t a sugar-free version of Coca-Cola—it’s its own drink altogether.

diet coke

The Real Origin: TaB

Diet Coke’s roots trace back to TaB, Coca-Cola’s first diet soda released in the 1960s. TaB had its own loyal fanbase but remained a niche product. When Diet Coke was introduced in 1982, it was designed as a more mainstream, modern diet soda with updated branding and a lighter, crisper taste.

The success of Diet Coke was immediate—it became a cultural phenomenon and eventually replaced TaB in most markets. However, what makes Diet Coke unique is that it retained TaB’s base formula, making it chemically and flavor-wise distinct from original Coca-Cola.

The Flavour Difference

This is why Diet Coke tastes so different—not just less sweet, but sharper, lighter, and crisper. It doesn’t have the syrupy richness of classic Coca-Cola. The carbonation feels more pronounced, and the drink finishes clean. It’s refreshing in a completely different way.

That flavor difference is also why Coke Zero, which is a no-sugar formula made to taste like original Coca-Cola, exists alongside Diet Coke. And when there were rumors about Coke Zero replacing Diet Coke? Loyal Diet Coke drinkers were not pleased.

I usually get Diet Coke from McD's :)

My New Appreciation

After learning all of this, I decided to give Diet Coke another try—this time with a more open mind. And honestly, I’ve come to appreciate it for what it is. It’s not just a lighter version of Coke; it’s a crisp, refreshing soda with its own distinct personality. It pairs well with food, doesn’t leave a sugary aftertaste, and feels a bit more “grown up” than regular Coke.

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Final Thoughts

What started as a random fun fact turned into a deeper appreciation for a drink I’d long overlooked. Diet Coke isn’t just Coca-Cola minus sugar—it’s a legacy product with its own history, taste, and cult following. If you’ve never given it a real chance, maybe it’s time to try it again—with fresh eyes (and taste buds).

HiSmile Grape Bubble Gum short review

 

I wanted to see what all the hype around HiSmile was about, so I picked up a tube to try for myself. I opted for the Grape Bubble Gum flavour—and I'm so glad I did!

Pros:

• sweet (I'm glad they stated it was sugar-free)
• lovely muscat grape taste (not the other gross artificial grape taste!)
• gentle on teeth
• slight mintiness
• fun to brush teeth with
• I noticed a little brightening (... but I'm not sure whether it is a placebo)

Cons:

• too gentle, can't clean teeth or mouth properly
• still feel plaque and particles between my teeth after brushing
• expensive (for toothpaste)

Here are a few thoughts after using it:

First off, the gel formula is extremely gentle, which sounds nice in theory, but it doesn’t quite deliver on the cleaning front. Compared to more traditional brands like Colgate or Crest, HiSmile doesn’t leave my mouth feeling as fresh or thoroughly cleaned. I could still feel plaque and other particles between my teeth after brushing, which was a bit disappointing.

That said, the flavour is delicious. Honestly, it almost felt like I was doing something wrong because I enjoyed it so much! While the label says "grape," the taste leaned more toward a muscat grape—reminiscent of those Japanese muscat bubble gums I used to have as a kid. There's a hint of mint, but it's extremely subtle. The overall experience felt more like chewing sweet bubble gum than brushing your teeth.

Now, let’s talk price. While your typical Colgate toothpaste costs just a few dollars, this HiSmile tube rang up at $14—definitely a premium for something that's more novelty than necessity.

HiSmile toothepaste

Verdict:
HiSmile is a fun, aesthetic toothpaste, especially if you're curious about unique flavours or want a bit of novelty in your routine. But in terms of functionality, it's not worth the high price tag. It doesn’t provide the deep clean most people expect from a toothpaste. I’d recommend using it for a quick midday refresh, like after lunch, but not for serious cleaning, especially before bedtime.

score: 4/10
website: https://ca.hismileteeth.com/products/toothpaste/grape-bubblegum

Head and Shoulders Supreme Scalp Scrub review

I love my hair, and I’m always looking for new ways to care for it—especially from the root up. So when I came across the Head & Shoulders Supreme Scalp Scrub, I had to try it. A product that promised to exfoliate, refresh, and create a healthy foundation for beautiful hair? That checked a lot of boxes.

I was curious to see if this scrub could live up to its claims of detoxing the scalp, removing buildup, and leaving both hair and skin feeling revitalized. Here's how it went, along with some of my honest impressions—and what others are saying too.

Product Claims:

• Deeply exfoliates to remove buildup and renew your skin's surface* (*With regular use)
• Provides a healthy foundation to grow beautiful hair from the scalp
• Fresh-smelling formula is crafted to be free of dyes and adds a soothing experience to your shower routine

Exfoliate yours with Supreme Exfoliating Scalp Scrub, brought to you by Head & Shoulders, America’s #1 dermatologist-recommended brand. Infused with vitamin E and argan oil, this scrub detox helps to remove product build up and dead skin cells for healthier hair. It’s like a gentle buildup remover and scalp treatment all in one. To use it, massage the scrub into your scalp before shampooing to renew your skin’s surface. Follow it up with Head & Shoulders Shampoo.

How to Use:

Massage into scalp before shampooing to gently exfoliate, remove buildup and renew skin's surface. Rinse well. Follow with Head & Shoulders shampoo.

Head and Shoulders Supreme Scalp Scrub

Highlights:

• gritty, not like St. Ives, but like a facial exfoliator
• has a nice soft scent but does not linger in your scalp or hair
• scalp feels slightly refreshed and gently exfoliated
• does not make scalp more or less greasy
• it is a good to have product but not a must have product.

My Impressions:

My scalp likes this scrub, but I wouldn't say it loves it. It craves the grittiness—there’s something satisfying about the gentle exfoliation—but the long-term benefits for my scalp health haven’t been particularly noticeable. It feels good in the moment, offering a light refresh, but hasn’t made a dramatic difference. Interestingly, I’ve noticed it moisturizes my hair more than my scalp, leaving my strands soft and touchable after use.

From researching online and seeing what others were saying, I’m not alone in this mixed experience. Many people love its effectiveness and clean, pleasant fragrance. Some even call it a miracle for their scalp, saying it works well for their scalp type and leaves their hair feeling moisturized and healthy. However, others mention that the exfoliating beads are quite tiny—almost too subtle—and that the tube is smaller than expected, comparable to a hand cream. A few reviewers also found the application directly to the scalp a bit awkward or ineffective.

All in all, it’s a nice sensory experience and a gentle way to refresh the scalp, but it may fall short if you’re expecting a deep detox or dramatic results.

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Head and Shoulders Supreme Scalp Scrub

Summary & Conclusion:

Head & Shoulders' Supreme Exfoliating Scalp Scrub offers a refreshing, mildly gritty texture and a light, clean scent that enhances your shower routine. While it doesn’t dramatically improve scalp health for everyone, it does provide a satisfying cleanse and noticeably softer hair. It’s ideal for occasional use when your scalp feels weighed down by product buildup. Just keep in mind the exfoliation is more subtle, and the tube might be smaller than expected.

If your scalp enjoys the ritual of exfoliation and you’re looking for something gentle with a soothing feel, this is a nice-to-have. But if you’re after a more intensive scrub or lasting scalp improvements, this might not be your miracle product.

score: 7.8/10
website: https://headandshoulders.com/en-us/shop-products/pre-wash/supreme-exfoliating-scalp-scrub-treatment

Zojirushi NS-LHC05 rice cooker review

Zojirushi Micom Rice Cooker & Warmer NS-LHC05

I never thought much about rice; it has always been just a simple side dish. But after trying the Zojirushi Micom Rice Cooker & Warmer NS-LHC05, I can confidently say it’s a game-changer. 

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This model, priced at $210 CAD ($180 USD), is a noticeable jump from your standard rice cookers that run around $130. But after just one use, I realized it was worth every penny. I’m so glad I made the investment.

For those who, like me, always thought “rice is rice,” here’s what changed my mind:

Subtly Sweet Flavour: The rice has a natural sweetness I never knew rice could have. It’s not sugary, but there’s a gentle, rice-derived sweetness that makes even plain white rice incredibly satisfying.

Perfectly Distinct Grains: Unlike other cookers that steam and mush the rice together, this one cooks each grain to perfection. You can feel and taste every individual piece—nothing is clumped or overly sticky.

Chewy, Mochi-Mochi Texture: The rice has the ideal “mochi mochi” texture—chewy, soft, and fluffy, yet firm enough to hold its structure. It feels both comforting and gourmet.

Consistent Results: Each batch turns out just right, as long as you follow the instructions closely. The rice-to-water ratio is key, and getting it right makes all the difference in texture and flavour.

The Experience: I used to think of rice as just a filler, but now it’s the centrepiece of my meal. Sometimes, I even eat it plain to savour the taste and texture. This rice cooker didn’t just upgrade my cooking—it changed how I experience rice altogether.

Downsides: The cooking time is a bit long—about 59 minutes for one cup of rice. However, the quick-cook setting still delivers a great result. It's also important to follow the manual’s instructions carefully, especially with the rice-to-water ratio. Small changes can make a big difference.

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Other Features:

Aside from the standout performance, there are a few other features of the Zojirushi Micom Rice Cooker that make it incredibly convenient:

• Microcomputerized Fuzzy Logic Technology: This smart technology allows the rice cooker to make minor adjustments to temperature and cooking time based on the type of rice and conditions. It takes the guesswork out of cooking and ensures consistently excellent results—even if your measurements aren’t perfect.

• Easy-to-Clean Components: Most of the parts of this rice cooker can be removed for a thorough cleaning, which is a huge plus for maintenance and hygiene.

• Retractable Electric Cord: The retractable power cord is a fantastic space-saving feature, making storage much easier when the cooker is not in use.

• Rice Spatula Nooks: Conveniently placed nooks on both sides of the cooker provide a spot for storing your rice spatula, keeping it within easy reach while maintaining a tidy kitchen.

• Clock Works Unplugged: Even when unplugged, the clock continues to run, so you don’t have to reset it every time you store the rice cooker. It’s a small but thoughtful feature that adds to the overall ease of use.

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Final Verdict:

This rice cooker has completely transformed my view of rice. It’s no longer just a side dish but the highlight of every meal. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth the investment, the answer is a resounding yes. Whether you’re a rice lover or just want to elevate your everyday meals, this Zojirushi rice cooker is a purchase you won’t regret.

Score: 9.8/10
Website: https://shop.zojirushi.com/products/nslhc?srsltid=AfmBOoovV9eTikQbqlscyxMnFhzrPF3921SQSzrdrtZy7axqa8GymzMX

McDonald's/McCafe Watermelon Lime Fruit Splash short review

 

I’ve really come to enjoy the Watermelon Lime Fruit Splash from McDonald’s—so much so that I’ve ordered it three times in the past few weeks!

It captures that familiar summer watermelon flavour with an interesting balance between natural and slightly artificial notes. The hint of lime and lemon adds a refreshing citrus twist without overpowering the drink. The result is a light, fruity beverage that’s both sweet and tangy, making it a perfect choice for a hot day or when you're simply craving something vibrant and thirst-quenching.

McDonald’s says it’s “a refreshing lemonade beverage made with real lemon juice concentrate and real lemon pulp, with the sweet and tangy taste of watermelon and lime—served over ice.” And honestly, it lives up to that description quite well.

If you’re looking for a non-carbonated, fruity drink with just the right amount of citrus zip, this one is definitely worth a try!

The only complaint I have is that it’s a bit too sweet for my personal taste. While the fruity flavours are enjoyable, the syrupy sweetness can be a little overpowering. To make it more refreshing and better suited to my palate, I usually let the ice melt slightly before drinking it. I’ve also started adding a bit of water to dilute the drink, which helps tone down the sweetness without losing the essence of the flavour. It’s a small adjustment, but it makes a big difference in how much I enjoy it.

Overall, the Watermelon Lime Fruit Splash is a fun, fruity, and refreshing treat—perfect for quenching my thirst. The fact that I’ve happily ordered it multiple times says it all. With a little tweaking—like adding water and letting the ice melt—it hits just the right balance for my taste.

score: 9.5/10
website: https://www.mcdonalds.com/ca/en-ca/product/watermelon-lime-fruit-splash-medium.html

Comparison: JBL Tune 215BT vs. 205BT, When “Newer” Isn’t Better

JBL TUNE215BT

They say newer versions are usually better—improved designs, enhanced performance, and upgraded features. But that wasn't the case with the JBL Tune 215BT earphones.

After years of daily use, my beloved JBL Tune 205BT finally gave out due to wear and tear. Naturally, I decided to try their newer sibling, the 215BT, hoping for an even better experience. Unfortunately, I was quickly disappointed.

JBL 205BT

The only real upside to the 215s? They connected slightly faster to my phone via Bluetooth. But from fit to sound quality—even down to the small details like the cable clip—the 205s were hands down the better earphones.

In fact, I disliked the 215s so much that I started hunting down another pair of the discontinued 205s within a week of using the 215s—and I was incredibly lucky and fortunate to actually find a pair!

Here’s a breakdown of why I believe the JBL Tune 205BTs outperform the JBL Tune 215BTs in almost every way. For simplicity, I’ll refer to them as the 205s and 215s throughout.

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Ear Fit & Comfort

I have smaller, somewhat awkwardly shaped ears, so comfort is a top priority when it comes to earphones. The 205s had a perfectly contoured shape that fit snugly without causing discomfort, even after hours of wear. They were more “ear-shaped,” which helped them stay in place securely.

The 215s, on the other hand, were a pain—literally. The earbuds are rounder and bulkier, which made them difficult to fit and keep in my ears. They popped out constantly and caused discomfort almost immediately after putting them on.

Scores:
205s: 9/10
215s: 2/10

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Sound Quality

One of my favorite things about the 205s was their sound. The bass was rich, the audio clear, and they made music incredibly enjoyable. Whether it was music, podcasts, or audiobooks, the sound quality was immersive and satisfying.

The 215s, however, felt like a downgrade. The audio sounded hollow—like it was coming from a tin can or from far away. Even with the volume turned all the way up or after tweaking the settings, the sound remained thin and flat. Listening to audiobooks became difficult, let alone enjoying music.

Scores:
205s: 9.8/10
215s: 1.0/10

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Cable Clip Design

This small detail turned out to be a big frustration. The 205s had flat cables that clipped securely and easily, keeping the earphones balanced and comfortable.

In contrast, the 215s have rounder, thicker cables that don’t stay put. Even when I forced the wires into the clip, they would constantly slip out, making the whole setup feel cheap and inconvenient.

Scores:
205s: 10/10
215s: 0/10

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Final Thoughts

The JBL Tune 215BT might be the newer model, but in this case, newer doesn't mean better. From fit and comfort to sound quality and cable design, the 205s win in every category that matters to me.

If you’re like me and prioritize comfort and great sound, I’d recommend hunting down a pair of JBL Tune 205BTs—even if it means buying them secondhand. Sometimes, the older version really is the better one.

McDonald's Spicy Mango Splash short review

 

I'm always up to trying new drinks, so when I saw this Spicy Mango Splash, I had to try it.

McDonald's describes this as: 

A refreshing lemonade beverage made with real lemon juice concentrate and real lemon pulp, with a sweet and spicy taste.

And that description is pretty spot on—it was a unique experience. The flavour instantly reminded me of the spicy baby mango snacks my friend brought back from Mexico. It hits your taste buds all at once with a punch of sweetness, a tangy lemony zing, and a surprising kick of spice that lingers just a little.

It’s kind of strange—in a good way—because it stimulates so many different parts of your tongue at the same time. It’s not your typical mango drink, that’s for sure.

Whether you’re a mango or spice lover, I can’t say for certain that you’ll love it—but if you’re an adventurous eater who enjoys bold and unexpected flavors, this might just be your next fun find. It’s less of a drink and more of a flavor experience. 🥭🌶️

score: 8/10
website: https://www.mcdonalds.com/ca/en-ca/product/spicy-mango-fruit-splash-medium.html

Hudson's Bay (a rant)

 

As a Canadian, it pains me to say this—but it must be said: Hudson’s Bay (known affectionately as "The Bay" to many of us) has truly earned its downfall. Once a symbol of Canadian retail heritage, the company has seen a steep decline, and not solely due to poor business decisions or the rise of online shopping.

When I finally stepped into a Hudson’s Bay store again after more than two years (in late March), it didn’t take long to remember why I stopped going in the first place. The experience was lackluster, frustrating, and a far cry from the proud legacy this brand once held. Goodbye, Hudson’s Bay. It's the end of an era—and sadly, one that fizzled rather than flourished.

The store technically closes at 9:00 p.m., but at 8:45, I was rudely told that the store was closed and I shouldn’t even think about buying anything. Seriously—what?! To make matters worse, announcements were being made over the speakers, warning customers not to take their time or they wouldn’t be allowed to make purchases. It was an incredibly unwelcoming experience and not how a retail environment should treat its customers, especially in their final days.

Goodbye, Hudson’s Bay (aka The Bay). You won’t be missed. Every time I have tried to support you or shop there, I’ve walked away disappointed. This last visit just sealed the deal.

If Hudson’s Bay is wondering why it ended up closing its doors, it might want to start by looking at how its sales associates treat customers. And if you're closing at 9:00 but start kicking customers out at 8:45, that might be an even bigger clue as to where things went wrong.

There are obviously other issues at play—like expired products still sitting on shelves, poor product presentation, and a general lack of upkeep—but all of these point to a larger problem: a failure to prioritize the customer experience. When the basics of retail—clean stores, respectful service, and trust in the products—are neglected, it's no wonder shoppers take their business elsewhere.

In the end, Hudson’s Bay didn’t just lose customers because of competition or economic shifts—it lost them because it failed to evolve with its shoppers. From dismissive staff and rushed closing times to expired products and uninspired store layouts, the brand neglected the foundational elements of a good shopping experience. As a Canadian, it’s disappointing to see such a historic retailer decline, but the truth is, respect for customers and attention to detail matter. If a store can’t offer that, then no amount of legacy or nostalgia can save it.

Kirkland Shrimp Taco short review

I recently came across these Shrimp Tacos by Kirkland at Costco and was curious how seafood and tacos could work. I bought them preparing for the worst but hoping for the best. To my surprise, these not only tasted good... they exceeded my expectations!

I wasn't planning on writing a review, so we took about 8 fried shrimp worth of tacos before I took a picture. 

I have a feeling this meal kit is offered for a limited time, so if you see it, I highly recommend you grab it before they are gone. 

This Cilantro Lime Cream was one of the highlights of this meal kit, it tastes so good, that I can literally eat it like yogurt with a spoon... hahaha. (I won't... but I can imagine doing this)

Look at the size of that fried shrimp! I didn't realize how massive it was until I set it on top of the taco!

The shrimp was fresh, had a nice fresh shrimp taste and the thickness of the batter complemented the taste very well with an added crispness. (you need to reheat the fried shrimp in an oven for about 15 mins and the taco shells for about 5 mins)

Unlike traditional tacos, which rely mostly on lettuce, the salad toppings had a lot of cabbage, cilantro and various chopped-up veggies. 

 These are very filling <3

Score: 9.8/10
Website: https://sameday.costco.ca/store/costco-canada/products/47931589-tempura-shrimp-taco-1-38-kg

Shake Shack Canadian snacks edition

Maple Salted Pretzel Shakes and More S'mores Concrete at Yonge and Dundas Square Shake Shack

One of the reasons I started writing my own reviews is because experiences don’t always match expectations. After extensive research, I was convinced I’d love the Maple Salted Pretzel Shake—though the More S’mores Concrete was equally tempting (so, of course, I ordered both). And thank goodness I did, because my experience didn’t quite align with what others had raved about.

Maple Salted Pretzel Shake

The Maple Salted Pretzel Shake wasn’t bad, but it lacked the salty pretzel kick that so many reviews had praised. While I appreciated the thick and creamy consistency, the overall flavour felt a bit one-dimensional. It leaned more on the sweet side than I expected, without enough contrast to balance it out. I kept waiting for that salty-sweet harmony to hit, but it never really did. The pretzel flavour was subtle—almost too subtle—making it taste more like a standard caramel or maple shake rather than something unique. For this reason, and the lack of depth in flavour, I’d rate this a 6.5/10.

More S'mores Concrete

The real showstopper was the More S’mores Concrete—a dessert that completely exceeded my expectations! It had everything I wanted: the perfect balance of saltiness, rich chocolatey goodness, and just the right amount of sweetness from the marshmallows. It was like a cold, ice cream version of a perfectly made s’more. The chocolate bits added a delightful crunch, while the well-blended texture ensured that each bite had an ideal mix of flavours. The graham cracker pieces tied everything together, making it taste just like a classic s’more but in a creamy, indulgent form.

For all these reasons, I’m giving it a 9.8/10—a near-perfect treat that I would 100% order again! If you ever find yourself in Toronto (or anywhere in Canada where it’s available), do yourself a favour and try the More S’mores Concrete! It’s a treat worth experiencing for yourself.

This experience reminded me of the importance of trying things for myself rather than relying solely on other people’s reviews. While recommendations can be helpful, taste is subjective, and nothing beats a firsthand experience. What worked for others didn’t quite work for me, and what I least expected ended up being the real winner. Sometimes, the best surprises come from trusting your own instinct and taste buds!

Verilux Happy Light Touch short review

One of my besties at work recommended I try out one of these light therapy lamps after I told her about my dreaded Winter Blues as the winter season approaches. She read about them and said that not only do they enhance and uplift your mood, but they also brighten your skin (naturally).

After hearing about the research and being desperate to not have to endure another sad and depressing winter, I bought it to try.

Before I continue the review, I want to emphasize how easy it is to turn on this lamp. It is like turning on an iPad: just press a small flat button in the upper right corner, and it turns on. Ever since having this lamp, I usually use it as my light source instead of my night lamp because it is easy to turn on and off. Despite how bright it is, I still prefer it over my lamp. 

I keep this beside my bed, so I can easily access it. (For the benefits and as a source of light)

off with 

This lamp is incredibly BRIGHT! The moment I turn it on, all I see is light, and it is powerful enough to illuminate my entire room. It offers two light settings: daylight and warm light. I personally prefer the daylight setting because it’s noticeably brighter. Additionally, there are three brightness levels, and I always set it to the brightest for maximum effect.

The buttons are conveniently located at the front of the lamp, making them easily accessible. A gentle touch is all it takes to switch between settings, which I find both practical and user-friendly.

on in an unlit room

It’s still "early" winter, and the winter blues haven’t officially kicked in yet (they usually settle in after Christmas and New Year), but I’ve already noticed my body craving light on darker, gloomier days.

Tilting Angle:

My only complaint is that the angle of the lamp cannot be adjusted, which limits flexibility in positioning. Other than that, I haven’t come across any other drawbacks.

size against my iPad Mini 5 (please excuse the mess in the background #postChristmasmess)

UPDATE:
Today was a gloomy, and snowy day, perfect for giving the lamp a proper test. And let me tell you... I LOVE IT! It works! I followed the instructions, positioning it at a 10 o’clock angle towards my face for 20 minutes. That’s all it took to lift my mood and brighten my day.

I am so glad I made this small investment—it has already proven incredibly rewarding. Not only does it help brighten my space on gloomy days, but it also uplifts my mood and keeps me feeling more energized. It’s a simple yet effective way to combat the winter blues, and I can already feel the positive impact it’s having on my overall well-being. I can confidently say this was a purchase worth making, and I look forward to continuing to reap its benefits throughout the darker winter months.

Score: 9.810
Website: https://verilux.com/products/new-happylight-touch?srsltid=AfmBOooP6YibqQHBGVpXCBvpeoEPGiE73fqEhcTvtfnHFYa8yfyQbPWa