Mini bricks kitchen backsplash

What color would you paint?

2024.05.17 09:40 sladdenn What color would you paint?

What color would you paint?
Hey guys. Ive renovated my kitchen but i still havent gotten a backsplash. Ive decided to go with paint.
I would love your opinions on what kind of color you would chose for the backsplash?
submitted by sladdenn to Renovations [link] [comments]


2024.05.17 09:21 Dozer736 Kansas city shuffle

Disclaimer: this is very speculative and only one of the many interpretations of DFV's tweets so far.
Over the past few days we have witnessed the overture, the beginning, distraction, made you look phase of the plan. Everything panned out like our heroes wanted. MSM was baited in, all the bots got activated, shillery for different tickers etc. Hopefully the DOJ and SEC paid close attention.
This morning I ran into this post from 5 months ago:

QUOTE

https://twitter.com/DominosJack/status/1731032291244146806
---
In January of 2021 #GME ruffled a lot of feathers, triggering an event that posed a systemic risk to the global financial system, a risk equal to the corruption that facilitated its emergence.They haven’t forgotten, nor has Ryan Cohen, neither has the discerning retail investor, the SEC, the DOJ, Congress, Carl Icahn, Mark Cuban, Larry Cheng, Elon Musk and many more.You don’t expose a criminal’s greatest weakness to the world and expect them to fall for the same gambit again. The sequel has to be exponentially more calculated than the original.And there was Bed Bath and Beyond, another sitting duck retailer with a bought and paid for CEO, enormous short interest, pandemic fatigue and a prime candidate for cellar boxed tax free gains.GameStop 2.0 was never the play here. They were caught off guard the first time, this would have to be a ground breaking market maneuver and it would require a retail presence far more risk tolerant than anything seen before. The only way to collectively synthesize that level of risk tolerance is by building, brick by brick, an information devouring juggernaut capable of jumping from one social media platform to the next without skipping a beat.The brilliance of this play can be summed up in fairly simple terms.Every single corporate action from the moment Ryan Cohen sold his shares resulted in two diametrically opposed results:
  1. Signal the algos to short
  2. Speak to the retail investor in language AI is yet to comprehend. Speak not in white lines but in the spaces between. Distract AI with the Woman in the Red Dress, keep Retail focused on every move Mr. Smith makes.
There it is in black and white. If you think the Matrix reference is hyperbolic, you’re not paying attention. To say the gamification of the markets is an issue is the understatement of the century.They turned the markets into a real time videogame by handing the keys over to the algos with no way of getting them back. Ryan Cohen and company, along with the select group of retail investors wise enough to read between the lines, are in the process of returning the markets to the collective unconscious which, when challenged, has embedded within it a wealth of resources far superior to any binary code system built to transfer wealth from the masses to the corrupt, unworthy few.They built a global financial video game and somehow missed the fact that a generation of gamers would be their opponent. That is why they are the Dumb Stormtroopers.And so what you have here is a necessary hack into a system that not only imbues almost no inherent value to society but will continue to metastasize until it creates a true dystopian reality. That shit is not gonna happen on Ryan Cohen’s watch or on ours. This is a team effort against a singular minded machine.The importance of the #BBBYQ play cannot be overstated. They must be stopped, they will be stopped and the power will be returned to the players 🏴‍☠️

END QUOTE

The 'no fighting' meme stood out to me. Warning the communities against internal strife perhaps? Should we expect there to be a reason for strife?
There was also braveheart dying, shouting GameStop. A meme where we were told not to fear the reaper (song). Lots of references to mirroring and reversal everywhere. There's two of them talking to each other (there's two stocks in play?). With the hindsight of these memes it does seem plausible that the real plan will involve Bobby as the main gambit. I do think Jimmy will run, but I also think the main offense might originate from Bobby.
The Jason Bourne tweet mentions 'i can't run with you, they know who I am' (Jimmy is controlled, all eyes are on it). He says this to the actress who also plays the lead in the Run Lola Run movie. The color on the mini was edited to red with the steering wheel saying "I'm In". But they park the red car and get out. The car is now black as Ryan gosling exits and blends in with the crowd.
The quoted post even mentions "keeping everyone focused on the woman in the red dress" and we have a meme with Emma stone attracting everyone's attention while wearing a GameStop logo.
It feels right to me; these past days short term profiteers with capital have jumped on Jimmy. These are not the kind of people RC wants to reward. Bobby is inaccessible, only available to our crazy lot who dug into the paperwork and went through the bankruptcy deathspiral. There's no possibility for FOMO. The bad guys are all locked in here with us, without an exit.
TLDR; memes warming us up to the idea that bobby is the main play? Jimmy will become a forever hold, being very valuable and worthwhile but not nessecarily giant moass numbers?
submitted by Dozer736 to Teddy [link] [comments]


2024.05.17 08:36 Local-Interview-4139 Advice requested for issue with new-build property

Bought a new-build terrace in Q1 of 2022; thin from the front but has a long, south facing brick wall that the rain hits. I went on holiday at Christmas 2022 and when I came back I saw mold creeping up the wall in the living room, began to investigate and noticed that the carpet was damp at points along the wall. First assumption was that the waste pipe was leaking as it is next to the damp spot, but I can’t smell anything foul. I pull the couch out and notice it’s damp there as well, as well as further down the room. Seems to be damp around where the air cavity bricks are when looking from the outside. Since the wall is common with both the living room and the kitchen I decide to pull the plinths off the kitchen units and see mold under there as well.
Complained to the developer and they sent someone out. He investigated and thought it was an error with how the damp-proof course and radon barrier were installed; he believed that they overhung the brickwork too much and allowed moisture to creep in due to the capillary effect during heavy rain. I accepted the answer as I had since bought a moisture meter that I would press into the wall and carpet and the higher readings would always be after it had rained. They got to work to correct this and I’d monitor it throughout the remainder of 2023, the readings on the wall were still a bit higher (15%ish) but the meter was still in the green range and the carpet felt dry so I didn’t have any evidence. Come December 2023 and I’m noticing similar issues again; damp and water ingress. The meter caps out at 22% but I'm measuring that at many points of the exterior wall. No mold this year but that might just be coincidental since the winter of 2022 was a lot more brutal than 2023 in my area.
Complained again and they’ve sent someone out to investigate. The contractor admitted he could smell and feel damp when he came into the living room and reported it back to the developer and said it might need a structural engineer to fault-find. Developer said they’d arrange work but wouldn’t commit to what solution they’re going to try. I’ve since had the same contractor as 2022 come back and do more work to the brickwork whilst I’ve been away at work. I’ve inquired with the developer but they haven’t given me a concrete answer yet and I feel like they’re fobbing me off. I’m also outside of my 2 year warranty.
I feel like at this point I’m ready to contact the LABC and get the ball rolling, but I’m posting this here to get some feedback on what others would do in my situation. A GDPR request to the developer maybe in case there’s any e-mails about me that discuss the issue, or maybe speak to my home insurance. Obviously if it is structural then any solutions are surely to be disruptive to me and I want to make sure I've considered everything.
submitted by Local-Interview-4139 to HousingUK [link] [comments]


2024.05.17 07:17 Gingerbeardman29 Adventure Rig Setup and Efficiency Test

Adventure Rig Setup and Efficiency Test
I'm Rivian's target customer. I've wanted to put together the ultimate camping setup that can do some offroading, get to remote campsites, and bring bikes for day rides. I've got a DMP AT Max build, an iKamper Skycamp Mini 3 on top of the bed, and a Kuat swing out hitch and Piston Pro X. The wife and I recently took a 5 day trip out to Moab from the Front Range, 940 miles, high mountain passes, 75-80mph on the freeway west of Vail, light Moab offroading, camping, cooking with the truck outlets, driving into town for a few meals, and driving to some trailheads. I wasn't trying to hypermile, just get an efficiency baseline for the setup. Round trip, I used 500kW, 1.88m/kWh on average. I was getting roughly 1.6m/kWh at 80mph in rolling hills, 1m/kWh climbing mountain passes, as low as 0.6m/kWh offroading climbing loose hills, and of course, maxed out the 4.01m/kWh heading down mountain passes. EA chargers in Edwards, RAN in Grand Junction, and the Tesla Magic Docks in Moab all worked without issue. Range was never an issue. I used 13-15% from Moab up to the Dead Horse area depending on the route, and 4% back to town. Charging at the Magic Docks, taking the bikes into town, eating dinner, and riding back was perfect for a nearly full charge. Edwards back to the Front Range used 35% ish of the battery. I haven't done this trip with a naked truck to compare to, but there are a few things I want to try to improve efficiency. 1. Ferrings on the bike rack over the bike tires for smoother air flow 2. Cover the the spoiler vents over the cab so air isn't being shoved directly into the RTT. 3. Maybe some sort of ferring over the top of the bikes. I'll take suggestions.
Offroading, even the dual motor is WAY more capable than any other vehicle I've owned. Very stoked. Electric grittle, kettle worked great off the bed plugs. Still need a camp kitchen setup. The auto level at camp is such a great feature. Maybe I've gone soft, but a flat sleeping surface is a nice luxury.
Despite the overall efficiency for this trip, I love the truck even more than before the trip. Could easily fit 4 people with all the space this truck has... with a hitch rack extension.
One complaint, Driver +, adaptive cruise control, was not available with my hitch rack. I did have accessory mode on, maybe I should try it without.
This truck is rad. Check out the pics.
submitted by Gingerbeardman29 to Rivian [link] [comments]


2024.05.17 07:14 tab_rick What is the Best Kitchen Island Countertop?

What is the Best Kitchen Island Countertop?
The kitchen island countertop is more than a functional surface; in modern homes, it stands as the heart of the kitchen. With a plethora of materials available, from granite and quartz to laminate and solid surface, selecting the ideal one can be challenging. Let’s explore the best options.

What Makes a Kitchen Island Countertop Great?

When considering a countertop, aesthetics alone won’t suffice. An outstanding kitchen island countertop combines durability, low maintenance, visual allure, and versatility. Let’s delve into these criteria further.

Good Durability

Durability is a critical attribute for countertops. Envision accidental wine spills or the impact of dropping heavy utensils. Materials like granite, quartz, solid surface and stainless steel are designed to resist such challenges, making them preferred choices for many homeowners. On the other hand, hardwood and butcher block, while also durable, provide a warmer aesthetic compared to the sleek appearance of stainless steel. For households with high activity or children, a strong yet aesthetically pleasing countertop is crucial.

Easy Maintenance

Maintaining a pristine countertop shouldn’t require excessive time and effort. Prioritizing easy maintenance is essential. For example, solid surface countertops are non-porous, offering stain resistance. A swift cleaning suffices for its upkeep. Laminate is another user-friendly choice, though it may not match the durability of quartz. While stainless steel is effortless to clean, it might display fingerprints and scratches. It’s crucial to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each material.

https://preview.redd.it/iefuw1xv5x0d1.png?width=612&format=png&auto=webp&s=392547d94a44e4ae472e2b51c3544357dc273278

Visual Appeal

The kitchen often stands as the centerpiece of a home, demanding both aesthetic and functional considerations. Granite countertops, renowned for their distinctive patterns and shades, add a touch of visual allure. For those with a penchant for a modern and minimalist design, solid surface countertops are a fitting choice. Marble countertops, with their unique veining, exude an artistic elegance. Yet, while aesthetics play a role, it’s imperative to ensure that functionality isn’t compromised in the pursuit of beauty.

Multitasking

A versatile kitchen island countertop provides notable benefits, especially in smaller kitchens with limited space. For example, a butcher block countertop functions both as a working area and an integrated chopping board. Moreover, countertops with integrated charging stations or storage features elevate their functionality and efficiency.

Solid Surface Countertop

Solid surface countertops offer design versatility, adeptly mimicking the aesthetics of natural stone, wood, or various other materials. Comprised primarily of natural minerals fused with high-quality resins, these countertops are gaining popularity among homeowners and design professionals alike.
Examining the composition in detail, the predominant component in solid surface countertops is aluminum powder. This powder is a precise blend of 15+25+75, leading to a high-density, non-porous surface with minimal water absorption. The texture is smooth to the touch. Additionally, the incorporation of isophthalic resin guarantees the countertop exhibits an exceptional texture, augmented hardness, and increased resistance to discoloration and environmental pollutants. In simpler terms, its quality and performance are outstanding.

Characteristics of Solid Surface Countertop

Solid surface kitchen countertops have garnered attention in recent times. But what sets them apart? Let’s delve into their key features.
  • Easy to Maintain and Clean: Solid surface countertops stand out for their simplicity in upkeep. Any inadvertent spills, whether coffee or red wine, can be swiftly wiped away using a damp cloth. Their non-porous quality ensures they resist staining, sidestepping the persistent marks often seen with alternative countertop materials.
  • Smooth and Uniform Look: Solid surface countertops cater to those seeking a harmonious and uninterrupted appearance. Unlike natural stones like granite or marble, which may display variations, these countertops offer a uniform look. Such consistency aligns well with homeowners desiring a contemporary and polished kitchen aesthetic.
  • Unique Appearance: The design patterns of solid surface countertops stand out because of their uniqueness, our solid surface sheet can also be made into a unique pattern plate. Carefully crafted by experienced masters, the lines are smooth and delicate, beautiful and generous. In addition to their visual appeal, the patterns capture the rich color and luster of marble, looking like marble countertops but feeling softer and more refined.
  • Absolutely Free from Formaldehyde and Odor: Our solid surface countertops are crafted from materials devoid of harmful radiation and formaldehyde emissions, promising a safe haven for prolonged usage. The inherent odorless nature further enhances your living space, promising a fresh and healthy environment at all times.
  • Antibacterial, Mold-Resistant, and Designed to Repel Moisture: Experience the hygienic brilliance of non-porous countertops that stand tall against bacteria, mold, and mildew, refusing to offer a habitat for their growth. Their suitability extends especially to kitchens and bathrooms, spaces known for moisture retention, offering a surface that is not just easy to clean but promises sustained hygiene.
  • Exceptional Durability: One of the defining characteristics of solid surface countertops is their robustness. Crafted to withstand daily wear and tear, they maintain their luster even with frequent use. Whether faced with hot kitchenware or routine tasks, these countertops prove resilient.
  • Diverse and Customizable Designs: Solid surface countertops impress with their wide array of styles. Whether you’re inclined towards a minimalist approach or detailed patterns, there’s a design tailored for you. Additionally, the customization scope is broad, encompassing integrated sinks to unique edge designs, expanding the design horizons.
The growing preference for solid surface countertops is rooted in their maintenance ease, visual charm, lasting durability, and adaptability in design. They truly present a blend of attributes that’s compelling to consider.

Granite Countertop

Granite countertops epitomize a blend of sophistication and resilience. Recognized for its aesthetic allure and practical advantages, granite has long been a preferred choice for discerning homeowners. Let’s explore the attributes that position granite as a premium countertop material.
What gives granite its distinct properties? Granite is an igneous rock, formed from cooled molten lava. This implies that your countertop might have originated from volcanic activity. Its primary constituents are quartz, feldspar, and mica, which contribute to its speckled appearance. The minerals present in granite provide a spectrum of colors, ranging from earthy browns and muted pinks to profound blacks and radiant whites.

Characteristics of Granite Countertops

  • Unique Patterns and Colors: Granite stands out for its unparalleled individuality. Each slab is distinct, ensuring that your kitchen island countertop is truly unique. The vast array of colors and designs provides ample opportunities for tailored preferences.
  • Long-Lasting: Granite is renowned for its durability. With appropriate maintenance, including periodic sealing, a granite countertop can serve for decades, proving to be a long-term investment.
  • Heat and Stain Resilience: Kitchens are prone to spills and high temperatures. Granite’s heat-resistant nature allows for direct placement of hot cookware without causing harm. When sealed correctly, it also resists stains, facilitating easy cleaning.
In summary, granite offers more than aesthetic appeal; it’s a blend of beauty and practicality. Regardless of your culinary expertise, a granite countertop remains a dependable and elegant option for your kitchen island.

Marble Countertop

Marble epitomizes luxury and refinement. Commonly linked with magnificence, marble countertops elevate the sophistication of any kitchen. But what attributes make marble stand out as a choice for kitchen island countertops? Marble is a metamorphic rock, evolved from limestone. Under specific heat and pressure conditions, it transforms into the distinguished stone recognized as marble. Its signature veining arises from impurities like clay, silt, and sand present during its formation.

Characteristics of Marble Countertops

  • Distinctive Veining: Marble’s hallmark is its distinctive veining, a natural masterpiece where each slab narrates a singular tale. This ensures that your kitchen island countertop transcends functionality to become a focal point of conversation.
  • Heat Resistant: Marble naturally remains cool even in elevated temperatures, providing an ideal surface for tasks such as rolling out dough. While it is resistant to heat, utilizing trivets is recommended to prevent potential damage to the surface.
  • Porous and Delicate: While marble’s porous nature renders it somewhat delicate, necessitating regular sealing to maintain its immaculate appearance, this characteristic also lends it a refined and elegant aesthetic. Ensuring prompt cleanup of spills will aid in preserving its pristine condition.

Quartz Countertop

In the dynamic realm of kitchen design, quartz countertops stand out as a preferred choice for both homeowners and designers. What makes quartz so captivating? Let’s delve into the unique characteristics of this exceptional material.
Quartz, at its essence, is a prevalent natural mineral. However, when discussing quartz countertops, we’re addressing an engineered stone. This signifies that while it’s produced, it’s not wholly synthetic. The creation involves pulverizing natural quartz crystals into a refined powder, which is then amalgamated with other minerals and resins. A standard quartz countertop is composed of approximately 90% quartz and 10% resins, polymers, and colorants. This distinct blend yields a material that combines the aesthetics of natural stone with features unattainable by pure natural stones.
Thanks to the manufacturing technique, there’s an expansive array of colors and designs available. This adaptability is a pivotal reason for quartz’s rising popularity in kitchen countertops.

Characteristics of Quartz Countertop

  • Wide Designs: Engineered quartz stands out for its adaptability and range of aesthetic options. Whether you desire a countertop that embodies the sophistication of marble without the upkeep, or you prefer a modern, striking design adorned with metallic specks, quartz meets your needs. Its wide variety of designs and hues guarantees a match for every preference and kitchen motif.
  • Easy to Clean and Maintain: Kitchens are prone to spills and stains, but with quartz countertops, clean-up is a breeze. Its non-porous surface resists staining, safeguarding against the likes of coffee spills or beetroot splashes. A quick wipe with a damp cloth restores its pristine condition, eliminating the need for frequent sealing or specialized cleaning solutions.
  • High Durability: Quartz countertops are synonymous with endurance, resisting scratches, chips, and cracks effectively. Their hard-wearing nature makes them ideal for bustling kitchen environments, capable of withstanding daily culinary endeavors whether you are a beginner or a proficient chef.
  • Consistent Appearance: In contrast to natural stones, which may exhibit variations in shade and pattern even within a single slab, quartz presents a uniform facade. This attribute is vital when utilizing multiple slabs for a project, facilitating a harmonious and uninterrupted visual flow.

Stainless Steel Countertop

Stainless steel countertops, once predominantly seen in commercial kitchens, are now gaining popularity in residential settings. Their appeal? A combination of a sleek, contemporary look and a host of functional advantages tailored for active kitchens.
Stainless steel owes its “stainless” characteristic to its chromium composition. This element creates a protective layer on the surface, granting resistance against rust and everyday stains—a crucial feature in a space where spills are commonplace. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, stainless steel stands out for its remarkable durability. It can endure high temperatures and resist scratches, positioning it as a robust and almost unbeatable choice for kitchen surfaces.

Characteristics of Stainless Steel Countertops

  • Stain Resistance: A notable advantage of stainless steel is its ability to resist stains. Common kitchen spills like coffee, wine, or juice can be effortlessly cleaned up, making it invaluable in a bustling kitchen environment.
  • Easy to Clean: Maintaining stainless steel’s shine is simple—just a swift swipe with a moist cloth does the trick. There’s no demand for special cleaners or polishes, making it a top pick for those who value hassle-free care.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel robustly defends against corrosion, ensuring common household chemicals and substances don’t harm it. Its durability makes it a go-to for experimental chefs.
  • Sleek Aesthetic: For enthusiasts of a modern or industrial look, stainless steel is the way to go. Its lustrous finish and sleek design add a touch of sophistication to any kitchen environment.
  • Hygienic: Stainless steel’s non-porous nature guarantees a sanitary surface, providing minimal hiding spots for germs and pathogens.
In summary, if you’re in the market for a countertop material that marries aesthetic charm with functional advantages, stainless steel is a commendable option. Its durability, simple care, and modern aesthetic render it a fitting choice for today’s kitchens.

Porcelain Countertop

Porcelain, traditionally linked with elegant tea sets and intricate vases, has now gracefully transitioned into the realm of kitchen island countertops. Its allure isn’t solely based on its aesthetic charm. Porcelain countertops combine both visual elegance and practical advantages, setting them apart from many other materials.
Porcelain is a specialized ceramic, fired at exceptionally high temperatures to attain its robustness and longevity. Crafted from natural elements such as clay, feldspar, and quartz, these components are meticulously pulverized and then fused. The outcome is a compact, resilient material that stands up well against scratches, stains, and high temperatures.

Characteristics of Porcelain Countertops

  • Lightweight and Easy to Install: Porcelain has a knack for being light, making it a breeze to install compared to the heavyweights like granite or quartz.
  • Easy to Maintain: Thanks to its non-porous nature, porcelain doesn’t soak up liquids or become a breeding ground for bacteria. A swift swipe with a wet cloth is all it usually needs.
  • Appealing Appearance: Porcelain has this modern, chic vibe. Plus, it’s available in so many colors and designs, letting homeowners get just the right look for their kitchen island tops.
  • Robust Durability: Don’t let its elegant appearance fool you; porcelain can take a beating. It’s great at fending off scratches, chips, and the harsh sun, ensuring it stays beautiful for years.
  • Heat and UV Resistance: For those who love to cook, porcelain is a dream. You can place hot pots right on it without a worry. And if it’s under the sun? No problem. It won’t fade, thanks to its UV resistance.
When it comes to kitchen island tops, porcelain is making waves. Its blend of good looks and rugged strength makes it a top pick for homeowners wanting the best of both worlds.

What is the Ideal Kitchen Island Countertop?


Countertop Material Short Description Pros Cons
Solid Surface Countertop Durable, man-made material offering a seamless appearance. Non-porous, stain-resistant, seamless, repairable, available in various colors and patterns. Can be scratched, but easy to repair.
Granite Countertop A natural stone known for its unique patterns and durability. Heat-resistant, scratch-resistant, every slab is unique, adds value to homes. Porous (needs sealing), can chip or crack, heavy.
Marble Countertop Elegant natural stone with classic veining. Timeless beauty, heat-resistant, unique patterns. Porous (needs sealing), can scratch and stain, sensitive to acidic foods.
Quartz Countertop Engineered stone with consistent patterns. Non-porous, stain-resistant, scratch-resistant, consistent patterns, low maintenance. Not as heat-resistant as granite, can be expensive.
Stainless Steel Countertop Sleek, modern, and industrial look. Non-porous, heat-resistant, hygienic, durable, easy to clean. Can scratch and dent, shows fingerprints, can be cold to the touch.
Porcelain Countertop Thin, lightweight, and highly durable material. Stain-resistant, UV-resistant (won’t fade), heat-resistant, lightweight, versatile. Can chip or crack, installation can be tricky, might need specialized care.
Selecting the perfect kitchen island countertop is a decision influenced by individual tastes, lifestyle, and budget. Among the myriad of choices, the solid surface has notably risen in popularity.
What makes it stand out? Solid surface countertops strike a harmonious balance between visual allure and practical advantages. They are not only easy to maintain and durable but also come in a diverse array of colors and patterns, ensuring adaptability to any kitchen aesthetic. In addition, the solid surface countertop can be designed into a unique pattern, which feels better than marble and is as warm as jade.
Beyond their aesthetic charm, these countertops are pragmatically designed. Their non-porous nature renders them resistant to stains and bacterial growth. Their robustness ensures they endure daily kitchen wear and tear. For those with a penchant for personalization, the customization possibilities are boundless.
In your quest for a new kitchen island countertop, the solid surface merits consideration. It seamlessly marries elegance with functionality.

How to Design Solid Surface Kitchen Island Countertop?

  • Purpose:
Usage: Is it for food prep, dining, or both?
Storage: Need for cabinets or shelves?
Appliances: Integration of sink, cooktop, or outlets?
  • Dimensions:
Size: Measure the space, ensuring comfortable movement.
Overhang: For seating, allow at least 12 inches for legroom.
Shape: Options include rectangular, L-shape, U-shape, or curved.
  • Material:
Type: Solid surfaces are favored for their durability and seamless look.
Color & Pattern: Select a hue that matches your kitchen. Decide on solid, veined, speckled, or patterned.
Edge Profile: Choices range from square, beveled, bullnose, to ogee, based on your kitchen’s style.
  • Features:
Sink: Opt for undermount or integrated for a cohesive appearance.
Cooktop: Ensure adequate ventilation if included.
Outlets: Think about pop-up or under-counter outlets.
Backsplash: Consider one, especially with a sink or cooktop. Match or contrast with the countertop.
Seating: Plan the seating type and quantity, ensuring ample spacing.
Lighting: Evaluate pendant, recessed, or under-cabinet options
  • Maintenance
Use cutting boards to avoid scratches and refrain from placing hot items directly.
  • Budget
Set a budget and align your design accordingly. Ensure the island’s base can bear the countertop’s weight. Professional installation is advised for best results.
In essence, blend functionality with aesthetics, ensuring the island aligns with your kitchen’s overall design.

Get the Outstanding Solid Surface Countertop From KKR

In the realm of solid surface countertops, quality and craftsmanship can significantly vary, positioning KKR as a beacon of reliability and excellence in the industry. Leveraging its established reputation as a trustworthy manufacturer of solid surface sheets and countertops, KKR stands synonymous with unparalleled quality.
Drawing from a rich history of expertise, KKR has cultivated a deep understanding of homeowner necessities, offering an expansive selection of solid surface countertops to cater to diverse preferences. Whether your aesthetic leans towards the understated elegance of minimalist designs or the rich details of more elaborate styles, KKR promises to meet your specifications with precision.
What distinctly delineates KKR from others is an unwavering dedication to quality. Every countertop emanates meticulous craftsmanship, meeting the apex of quality and durability standards. Moreover, KKR facilitates a smooth installation process, with a team of seasoned experts ensuring a flawless finish, harmoniously integrating the countertop into your space.
Entrust your countertop needs to KKR, a brand epitomizing reliability and delivering products characterized by both beauty and longevity. When contemplating a solid surface countertop acquisition, KKR emerges as the preeminent choice, fulfilling its commitments with products that resonate with elegance and enduring quality.

Conclusion

Choosing the right countertop for your kitchen island is a pivotal decision that necessitates meticulous consideration. The array of materials on offer might initially appear overwhelming; however, understanding the pros and cons of each can facilitate a judicious choice. It is imperative that your selection not only resonates with your stylistic preferences but also adheres to your budgetary limitations.
Solid surface countertops stand as a viable and economical alternative. These offer a blend of durability and affordability, without compromising on the diversity of design options available.
To encapsulate, the quintessential countertop for your kitchen island is attainable. Through a thoughtful evaluation of each material’s strengths and weaknesses, you can arrive at a decision that harmoniously blends functionality with your aesthetic aspirations and financial framework.
submitted by tab_rick to KKRsolidsurface [link] [comments]


2024.05.17 06:34 one-small-plant Different speakers adjust different lights??

So I have five smart lights in the family room, and I named them different things related to the family room (ie, family room table light family room desk light, etc).
For a long time, I could tell any Google mini in the house (I have four) to "turn on the family room lights" and all five lights would turn on
Over the past 2 weeks, however, I've noticed that if I ask the speaker in the family room to turn on the family room lights, it only turns on two of them. But if I ask the speaker in the kitchen to turn on the family room lights, it turns on all of them.
Why on Earth would this happen?? I do think that the three lights that don't turn on by the family room speaker are either an older or newer model than the other two, but why would one speaker affect all five of them and another speaker would affect only two??
submitted by one-small-plant to googlehome [link] [comments]


2024.05.17 06:16 EastCoastCampers 2006 Chevy Express Brand New Skoolie Build

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🔌 Versatile Outlets: Charge your devices with ease using additional regular outlets (2), USB-C outlets (2), and USB-A outlets (2), ensuring you stay connected on the go.
🧑🏼‍🍳 Kitchen Essentials: Whip up delicious meals in the sleek kitchen featuring a deep sink, modern faucet, and single butane cooktop, all complemented by a convenient 1.7 Cu. ft Insignia mini fridge.
🍽️ Dining Delight: Gather around the large dinette with seating for two, complete with a spacious wood grain table and comforting cushions for enjoying meals or planning your next adventure.
🚿 Plumbing System: Stay refreshed with a 6-gallon grey water tank, 6-gallon clean water tank, and a whisper-quiet SEAFLO 3GPM water pump for all your hygiene needs.
🛋️ Spacious Living Area: Relax in the roomy living area, featuring luxury waterproof vinyl plank flooring and custom blackout curtains for added privacy and comfort.
📋Vehicle Specifications: This Skoolie is built on a rust- free, fleet maintained 2006 Chevrolet Express 3500 chassis, with a reliable 6.0L engine with only 90k miles, ensuring smooth and dependable travels for years to come.
At East Coast Campers, quality is our cornerstone. Our standard build embodies a minimalist ethos, offering a clean, elegant, and professionally crafted foundation for customization. Like a blank canvas, it's yours to personalize and make your own. Join our satisfied customers who trust us to bring their mobile living dreams to life. Contact us today and unlock the potential of your adventure on wheels!
submitted by EastCoastCampers to skoolies [link] [comments]


2024.05.17 05:40 ThroughOooway 20 [M4F], Florida/Milkyway Galaxy, Looking for adventure partner

Not really sure what I’m doing here, but here we go!
Id love to start off just chatting a joking around to see if a spark comes to be. Banter is very big for me. I'm definitely going to start off bit awkward but I imagine that's pretty universal. I'm really big on communication and building a relationship brick by brick.
I love quality time spent together, whether it be our adventuring or simply laying on the couch snuggling during the cold. I want someone I can share my nerdy habits with, and can share their own with as much passion.
A little about me:
I'm a 20M from Florida, I'm a Junior in Uni and follow a pretty active life style, going out travelling and "adventuring " of sorts a lot of weekends.
I’m 6’1, 210, with fluffy dirty blond hair . I’m in pretty good shape from constant gym going and living an active life style.
While I definitely love the outside, I love to nerd out on stuff, whether it be video games or Harry Potter. I love cute little dates, whether it be mini golf or simply a fun movie night.
My love language is very much physical touch and I will very openly show my affection for you when I’m feeling it.
Will send photo of me if you want one.
I know this was a little all over the place, but here goes nothing!
submitted by ThroughOooway to ForeverAloneDating [link] [comments]


2024.05.17 05:15 Elegant_Release9004 One Month Review of Playa Flamingo and Potrero

We are just wrapping up a month (April 19th to May 18th) in Playa Flamingo. We had a great time, and did less than 10% of what we had bookmarked before arriving, but that’s a good thing and just enjoyed a Pura Vida life for a few weeks. This experience is applicable if you’re staying in Brasilito, Conchal, Flamingo, or Potrero.
I hope it helps! Have a great trip!
submitted by Elegant_Release9004 to CostaRicaTravel [link] [comments]


2024.05.17 04:43 yippee1999 Short-term apartment rental in Tokyo

Hi everyone. I plan to spend 2.5 months in Tokyo, in the area of Ikebukuro. I'm currently looking into various types of apartments to rent. I am considering the Flexstay Inn in Sugamo. (I understand there are a few Flexstay type hotels in Tokyo....) and I'm also considering renting an apartment through an apartment rental management company called Leo Palace 21 (that I understand many local Japanese use when looking for an apartment).
While it seems that Flexstay is more like a short-term hotel (complete with mini-kitchen areas), Leo Palace seems more like traditional apartments (which may or may not be furnished, depending on your needs).
Based on anyone's experience here, what are some questions I should ask, that may not occur to me... that might be very particular to Japan, and where they may have stricter rental policies.
For example, regarding Flexstays, someone else suggested that I'd Not be able to have an American friend visit/stay with me for two weeks....that the hotel would not allow that. If that's true, how amenable might the hotel be to my temporarily changing to a two-bed room, for just a two-week period, and then I go back to a single-bed room?
For anyone who's familiar with Flexstay hotels, do you know what they typically have for 'kitchenware'? When I look at the website, while it clearly mentions a microwave and a rice cooker, I see no other indication of whether they have hot plates (electric stovetop), a saucepan, plates etc? I'll want to be able to boil water and cook vegetables at the very least.
I also saw that no matter what the size of room at Flexstay Sugamo, that all the rooms appear to be 'smoking rooms'. How common is that in Japan, or is it only more common in the less expensive/short-term stay hotels?
And what about ryokan? Has anyone ever heard of doing a short-term stay in a ryokan...if they would even allow for someone to stay, say 2.5 months (and esp if breakfast and dinner were included, which might make it worthwhile)?
Would a rental apartment with Leo 21 Palace be more flexible re guests staying with me, or not? Or is it that, even when you rent a private apartment, in Japan, it is more likely that the building management is 'watching' everyone and making sure that no one else is using the apartment except for the person who rented it? Does that mean you can't even have a friend to visit for a few hours, or is the issue about other people spending the night?
When I look at Leo 21 Palace 'furnished' apartments, I see no beds in the images. Can I assume that a futon bed and bedding/sheets ARE included...it's just that they were probably put away in the 'closet', at the time they took the website photos?
I believe smoking is still more common in Japan vs in the US (where I live). Is there a general policy re: smoking in apartments in Japan....are some buildings clearly indicated as no-smoking anywhere inside the building? If so, I'd assume that people DO follow the rules, and that they will only smoke outdoors?
submitted by yippee1999 to TokyoTravel [link] [comments]


2024.05.17 02:11 Sweet-Count2557 Best Breakfast in Anaheim Ca

Best Breakfast in Anaheim Ca
Best Breakfast in Anaheim Ca Are you ready to embark on a breakfast adventure in Anaheim, CA?Well, buckle up because we've got the ultimate guide to the best morning eats in town!We've scoped out the tastiest pancakes, the heartiest American fare, and everything in between.From charming cafes to family-friendly spots, we've left no stone unturned in our quest for the most satisfying breakfast options.So join us as we take you on a culinary journey through the flavors of Anaheim's top breakfast spots.Let's dive in!Key TakeawaysRestaurant 1 is considered one of the best breakfast places in Anaheim and is known for its sweet and savory pancakes.Restaurant 2 offers a casual dining experience with a rustic setting and serves American and French food.Restaurant 3 is a cafe with limited seating, offering coffee, fresh pastries, and souvenirs, making it a convenient stop before exploring Disneyland.Restaurant 6 is a casual restaurant that offers a taste of luxury with a global twist, serving local dishes and a variety of drinks.Top-Rated Pancakes and Hearty American FareWe love indulging in the top-rated pancakes and hearty American fare offered at these breakfast places in Anaheim. When it comes to finding the best breakfast in Anaheim, there are several outstanding options to choose from. Anaheim breakfast restaurants offer a variety of delicious dishes that cater to different tastes and preferences.One of the top breakfast places in Anaheim is [Restaurant 1]. Known for its sweet and savory pancakes, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. From Swedish pancakes to fresh strawberry pancakes, there's something for everyone. If you're looking for a heartier option, their steak and eggs or cinnamon roll French toast are highly recommended.Another popular breakfast spot is [Restaurant 2], a casual eatery serving American and French food. The rustic setting adds to the dining experience, making it a great place to fuel up before exploring the park. Their menu offers a wide range of options, from cinnamon roll French toast to buttermilk griddle cakes and malted waffles.If you're looking for a quick bite before heading to Disneyland, [Restaurant 3] is a convenient stop. This cafe offers coffee, fresh pastries, and souvenirs. While seating is limited, the pies, croissants, donuts, and cappuccino coffee make it worth the visit.For those who prefer a familiar and affordable breakfast, Denny's is a well-known diner that has been serving delicious breakfast dishes since 1953. With a chill atmosphere and diner-style food, it's a great option for families looking to save on costs.No matter what your breakfast preference is, Anaheim breakfast restaurants have something to satisfy every craving. Whether it's the top-rated pancakes or the hearty American fare, these breakfast places in Anaheim are sure to leave you satisfied and ready to start your day.Casual Eateries With Rustic CharmCasual eateries with rustic charm offer a delightful dining experience. The rustic ambiance enhances the overall experience, creating a cozy atmosphere that adds to the charm of these establishments.From the warm and welcoming decor to the relaxed and laid-back setting, these casual eateries provide the perfect backdrop for enjoying a delicious meal.Rustic Ambiance Enhances ExperienceThe rustic setting at Restaurant 2 enhances the dining experience, adding a charming and cozy atmosphere to our breakfast in Anaheim.As we enter the restaurant, we're greeted by warm wooden interiors, exposed brick walls, and soft lighting that creates a welcoming ambiance. The rustic decor, with its vintage accents and comfortable seating, transports us to a simpler time.The combination of the cozy atmosphere and the delicious food creates a sense of charm that's hard to resist. We can enjoy our breakfast in a relaxed and intimate setting, making it the perfect place to start our day in Anaheim.The rustic ambiance truly enhances the overall experience, making Restaurant 2 one of the top breakfast restaurants in the area.Cozy Atmosphere Creates CharmThere are several casual eateries in Anaheim that offer a cozy atmosphere and rustic charm. These Anaheim breakfast places not only serve delicious food but also provide a welcoming ambiance that adds to the overall dining experience.When it comes to breakfast near Anaheim, CA, there are plenty of options to choose from. From well-loved pancake joints to cafes offering local and sustainable options, there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a hearty American breakfast, a French-inspired meal, or a classic coffee and sandwich combo, these cozy establishments have got you covered.Casual Setting Adds CharmLet's explore how the rustic setting of these casual eateries in Anaheim adds charm to our dining experience. These restaurants provide a cozy and relaxed atmosphere that makes us feel right at home. The combination of warm lighting, wooden furniture, and vintage decor creates a welcoming ambiance that adds to the enjoyment of our meal. The casual setting allows us to unwind and enjoy our food without any pretense. It's a place where we can gather with friends and family, share a delicious meal, and create lasting memories. The table below highlights some of the best breakfast places in Anaheim that offer this charming setting:RestaurantDescription[Restaurant 2]Casual eatery serving American and French food. Rustic setting adds to the dining experience. Great place to fuel up before exploring the park.[Restaurant 5]Family-friendly breakfast spot with sandwiches and soups. Casual ambiance makes everyone feel at home. Youngsters will love the delicious bread.[Restaurant 8]Eatery in Indigo Hotel Anaheim. Savor local food with a focus on sustainability. Cozy atmosphere, also serves drinks at night.These restaurants not only provide delicious food but also create an inviting atmosphere that enhances our dining experience.Cozy Cafes Near DisneylandWe found two cozy cafes near Disneyland that serve delicious breakfast options. These cafes provide a warm and inviting atmosphere, making them the perfect spots to start your day before exploring the enchanting theme park.Here are the highlights of these cafes:Cafe A:Charming cafe with a rustic interiorOffers a variety of breakfast dishes to satisfy any cravingKnown for their fluffy pancakes and hearty omelettesFriendly staff and cozy seating arrangements create a welcoming ambianceCafe B:Quaint cafe with a vintage vibeServes a wide range of breakfast items, from classic favorites to unique creationsThe aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air, enticing your sensesTheir decadent pastries and artisan sandwiches aren't to be missedBoth cafes provide a delightful breakfast experience, catering to different tastes and preferences. Whether you're in the mood for a stack of pancakes or a savory breakfast sandwich, these cozy cafes near Disneyland have got you covered. So, fuel up with a delicious breakfast at one of these charming spots before embarking on a magical adventure at the park.Starbucks Delights Near Downtown DisneyOur favorite Starbucks near Downtown Disney is known for its delightful pastries and refreshing beverages. This popular café is conveniently located near the vibrant theme park, making it a perfect spot to grab a quick bite before exploring the magical world of Disney.As you approach the counter, the aroma of coffee greets you, enticing you to try their signature drinks. From the rich and creamy white mocha to the indulgent double chocolate chip drink, there's something for every coffee lover. Pair your drink with one of their various pastries, such as the mouthwatering blueberry cheesecake, for the ultimate treat.The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make this Starbucks a great place to relax and recharge. But if you're looking for a family-friendly breakfast spot with sandwiches and soups, just a stone's throw away, there's a fantastic option waiting for you.Family-Friendly Breakfast Spot With Sandwiches and SoupsThe family-friendly breakfast spot offers a variety of sandwiches and soups for us to enjoy. It's a casual ambiance that makes everyone feel at home, and the youngsters will love the delicious bread. Here are some of the options we can choose from for a satisfying breakfast experience:Sandwiches:French baguetteTelera rollMultigrain artisan sandwich breadSoups:Chicken noodleTomato basilThe sandwiches are made with fresh ingredients and come in different bread options to suit our preferences. Whether we prefer a classic French baguette or a hearty multigrain artisan sandwich bread, there's something to satisfy everyone's taste. The soups, like the comforting chicken noodle and the flavorful tomato basil, make for a great side or a light meal on their own.The breakfast spot's menu also includes other delicious options like blueberry buttermilk pancakes, hot chocolate, and cold brew coffee. So, whether we're in the mood for a hearty sandwich or a comforting bowl of soup, this family-friendly breakfast spot has us covered.Luxury Breakfast Experiences With Global FlavorsIndulging in luxury breakfast experiences with global flavors is a mouthwatering way to start the day, while expanding our culinary horizons. One of the best breakfast places in Anaheim, California, offers just that. This casual restaurant has emerged as a top choice for breakfast, offering a taste of luxury with a global twist. The menu boasts a collection of local dishes infused with flavors from around the world. Whether it's the nFuse killer grilled cheese, the buttermilk fried chicken sandwich, or the Peruvian chicken skewers, each dish is crafted to perfection, tantalizing our taste buds with a combination of bold flavors and exquisite presentation.Not only does this restaurant offer a delectable breakfast experience, but it also takes pride in using sustainable and locally sourced ingredients. As we savor each bite, we can appreciate the efforts made to support local farmers and reduce our carbon footprint. This commitment to sustainability adds an extra layer of goodness to our breakfast, making it an even more enjoyable and guilt-free experience.Transitioning into the next section about sustainable and local food options for breakfast, let's explore two other restaurants in Anaheim that share this focus on supporting local farmers and using locally grown ingredients.Sustainable and Local Food Options for BreakfastLet's explore two other restaurants in Anaheim that share a focus on supporting local farmers and using locally grown ingredients for sustainable and local food options for breakfast.[Restaurant 7]Offers a unique twist on local food optionsCommits to using locally sourced ingredients for sustainabilityWhat to order: cookie dough pancakes, Nashville-style chicken melt, strawberry milkshake[Restaurant 8]Located in the Indigo Hotel AnaheimEmphasizes sustainability and local foodWhat to order: chicken tenders and waffles, John Raes Hearty Breakfast, explore the menu for more optionsRestaurant 7 takes pride in going beyond ordinary breakfast options by incorporating local ingredients into their menu. They strive to support local farmers and promote sustainability by using locally sourced ingredients. Indulge in their delicious cookie dough pancakes, or try their Nashville-style chicken melt for a savory twist. Don't forget to wash it down with their refreshing strawberry milkshake.Located in the Indigo Hotel Anaheim, Restaurant 8 offers a cozy atmosphere and a focus on sustainability. They take pride in using locally grown ingredients to create their mouthwatering dishes. Try their chicken tenders and waffles for a delightful combination of sweet and savory, or opt for John Raes Hearty Breakfast for a hearty start to your day. Explore their menu for more sustainable and local food options.Both of these restaurants offer a wonderful breakfast experience while supporting local farmers and promoting sustainability. Enjoy the delicious flavors of Anaheim while knowing that your meal is made with locally sourced ingredients.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat Is the History or Background of Denny's as a Well-Known Diner in the United States?Denny's, a well-known diner in the United States, has a rich history and background. Since 1953, it has been a go-to spot for enjoying favorite breakfast dishes in a chill atmosphere.Denny's offers a wide variety of diner-style food and hand-dipped milkshakes. It's also known for its group meals, which are perfect for families looking to save on costs.With its familiar and affordable options, Denny's has become a beloved breakfast destination for many.Can You Provide More Information About Nfuse, the Casual Restaurant Offering a Taste of Luxury?Sure, we can provide more information about nFuse, the casual restaurant offering a taste of luxury.nFuse is a popular breakfast spot in Anaheim that combines local flavors with a global twist. With its cozy ambiance and extensive selection of bourbons, cocktails, wines, beers, and other libations, nFuse has quickly emerged as one of the best breakfast places in Anaheim.Some must-try dishes include the nFuse killer grilled cheese, buttermilk fried chicken sandwich, and Peruvian chicken skewers.What Are Some Unique Local Food Options Offered at the Restaurants Focusing on Sustainability?Some unique local food options offered at the restaurants focusing on sustainability include:Cookie dough pancakesNashville-style chicken meltStrawberry milkshakeat [Restaurant 7].At [Restaurant 8], you can try:Chicken tenders and wafflesJohn Raes Hearty BreakfastThese establishments strive to use locally grown ingredients for a more sustainable dining experience.With a focus on sustainability, these restaurants offer delicious and environmentally conscious choices for breakfast in Anaheim, CA.What Are Some Popular Menu Items at Brewberry Café, Known for Serving Traditional Breakfast Options?At Brewberry Café, known for serving traditional breakfast options, some popular menu items include classic favorites like eggs benedict, fluffy pancakes, and crispy bacon. Our generous plates are sure to satisfy your cravings, whether you're in the mood for a hearty omelet or a stack of golden waffles.Don't forget to explore the menu for more mouthwatering options. Brewberry Café is a go-to spot for coffee and sandwich lovers, offering a simple and homey atmosphere to enjoy your morning meal.Can You Give More Details About the Atmosphere and Ambiance at the Cafe Offering Sandwiches, Wraps, and Other Breakfast Items?The cafe offering sandwiches, wraps, and other breakfast items creates a simple and homey atmosphere. The cozy ambiance makes you feel comfortable, like you're dining in your own kitchen.The cafe's warm and inviting decor adds to the overall experience. As you enter, you'll be greeted by the delicious aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The staff is friendly and attentive, providing excellent service.It's the perfect place to enjoy a satisfying breakfast in a relaxed setting.ConclusionIn conclusion, the breakfast options in Anaheim, CA are truly out of this world! From mouthwatering pancakes and hearty American fare to cozy cafes near Disneyland, there's something for everyone's taste buds.Whether you're looking for a casual eatery with rustic charm or a luxurious breakfast experience with global flavors, Anaheim has it all. And don't forget the sustainable and local food options that go beyond the ordinary.Prepare to be amazed by the incredible breakfast scene in Anaheim!
submitted by Sweet-Count2557 to worldkidstravel [link] [comments]


2024.05.17 02:07 TarnishedSmep Make sure you look into what insulation grants are available in your area

I went on the council website and saw what schemes were available. There was a scheme for loft and wall insulation which was perfect for us, it just required an EPC of C or below, and council tax of D or above (we were C and D respectively).
I rang up and they initially stated the house wouldn't be suitable for wall insulation since the EPC assumes the cavity is already filled (1990s house) but I'd used an inspection camera and seen this is not the case. I sent them the videos from the camera and they proceeded.
They then sent a surveyor to do an EPC and assess suitability with an inspection camera and that was all signed off. Soon after two guys arrived with loads of rolls of mineral wool to top our loft up from 150mm to 300+mm. It was already boarded, they said to make sure we'd removed stored items before they got there, and they'd lay the insulation on the boards. They did a great job, then after they left I installed some stilts and extra boards on top of the new insulation so I could put the stuff back up. This was the only thing at my own expense.
Then some electricians came to fit a kitchen extractor fan and radiator reflective panels. We could also have had a smart thermostat and smart TRVs fitted for free but we already had these.
Finally the two insulation guys came back and injected glass wool into the cavity. Took them best part of a day but they filled all the mortar holes and even did helpful things like brick up an old redundant air vent and remove redundant TV aerials. It was explained to me beforehand that the EPS beads can cause issues with cables in the cavity so they prefer the white wool, and this is a type that does not wick water and cause damp issues.
There's a warranty attached to everything and it's all using Knauf insulation so it's all a high quality install. Everything cost us a total of £0 which is amazing.
Hard to tell how much impact its made as the weather warms up, although the notoriously chilly lounge is almost certainly holding its temp longer overnight. Well worth looking into!
submitted by TarnishedSmep to HousingUK [link] [comments]


2024.05.17 01:53 24hoursag0 Calm words about Google home products

HI all, I read the FAQs and all. I just want to say a few words.
Years ago, I bought a Google Home Nest Mini speaker thingie for $50. You could talk to it, it played music, etc. Same thing I rigged together when I was a teenager in the 90s using Microsoft voice and X10 products. Don't know why everyone is wetting there panties over this, but whatever.
It worked. And it worked well. I bought another, recommended to friends, over time, I bought 8 or 10 more since, had them all over the house, out on the veranda, stereo joined, grouped them with JBL video desk thingie in the kitchen, my Bose, awesome, carry along speaker, recommended to friends, etc.
It had glitches, but I've been working in high tech, biotech, etc., for 30 years. I now work in academia, Senior Systems Engineer at a fairly notable uni. Doesn't matter which, but it's colors are crimson if you're curious.
Back to the point, over time, they steadily got worse, wouldn't pair with each other, Google dropped support for my Bose AND the JBL, so they won't group anymore, etc. Bought a Google Hub thingie which WOULD NOT talk to the minis, they kept playing different songs, etc. Called support, went through an hour of mind numbingly first level support of resetting derive, etc., etc. Finally, took a video of me going through the steps, and duplicating the problems.
OK. "Your configuration is not supported sir. Thank you for calling." It's a Google Hub and a Google Nest, it says ON THE BOX this is one of it's "features"?!?!??!
I just got home from an ridiculously long day at work, asked Google to play music, and it says, "YOUR YOUTUBE ACCOUNT IS LOGGED IN FROM TOO MANY DEVICES"
All else aside, it is a speaker. Play music. come home, I open the refrigerator, and the door OPENS, light turns on, that's it. It does not lock and start a bloody argument with me that it thinks I have another refrigerator door open right now.
I called support. They say they if I check my EULA, I am not eligible for a refund. Some supervisor is supposed to call me back. On Google Pixel, with service provided by Google Fi, so who knows if I'll hear from them.
I AM DONE. I am the most chill guy you would ever meet, but this has made my mood... unpleasant.
Are there class action suits I can join? Do I need to get a pitchfork and torch, join the angry mob in Mountain View HQ?
EDIT: I think it was Kurzweil Voice, not Microsoft Voice. Totally irrelevant, just credit where its due.
EDIT: While I'm on rant, the 3 minis I gave my g/f for her apartment? We eventually through in a box in the closet because of the horror show it was getting to reliably and consistently work with her Google tablet thingie she has on the kitchen counter.
submitted by 24hoursag0 to googlehome [link] [comments]


2024.05.17 01:22 Acecake20 Boiling Point

For those of you who would like another show (/movie) featuring a restaurant/kitchen setting, trying to stay afloat day-to-day and an ensemble cast of entertaining characters then do I have the piece of media for you guys!
It’s called Boiling Point but there is something I have to clarify that’s a bit confusing.
If you search up Boiling Point, 3 results will come up because they all feature the same actor (Stephen Graham) and were all created by the same guy (Phil Barantini).
This is the chronological order that they came out: Boiling Point (2019, short film) Boiling Point (2021, hour and a half movie) Boiling Point (2023, 4 episode mini-series)
This is the correct viewing order: 2021 movie, then the mini-series and then if you liked both and want MORE, then check out the 2019 short film.
The 2021 movie is an excellently directed and acted movie that uses a one take (ooooh) to follow all the different waiters, chefs, managers and bartenders and perfectly build tension on a hectic night until the ending hits and everything finally stops. The mini-series is a direct continuation of the ending of the film and follows the cast of the movie as they continue their endeavours. As for the short film, that’s not connected to the plot of the other two but it is a fun watch as it’s also all in one take.
Two more things, it’s all British so if you aren’t British you might have to…y’know…yar har 🏴‍☠️🏴‍☠️. Last thing is that throughout the movie and especially the mini-series, their is a character that deals with a lot of mental health troubles and self-harm. So just be aware that that IS something mentioned/shown explicitly.
Quick edit: ALSO also, full disclosure, no it’s not as good as The Bear. It’s a still a fun watch though.
submitted by Acecake20 to TheBear [link] [comments]


2024.05.17 00:37 Galaxy_the_nightwing First Impressions part 76

First Previous Next

{Sorry for the late post. I had some trouble with my scheduled summer semester pop up so I wasn't able to write this out as much as I wanted last weekend. Anyways, enjoy the domestic fluff of Damian and his newly expanded flock :) }

-----Damian-----
"The next one's simple. Say their name then (sit). Like this: Braxton, (sit)." As Damian said the command he raised his hand to around shoulder height and snapped. The Great Dane in question slowly sat with his usual amount of sass. Ree cooed in awe and Scales' eyes sparkled. Damian smiled as he pats the large dog's head with praise.
"(Good boy). Ok, you two. Your turns. Make sure to say the commands in English. I haven't taught them Common yet." He motioned to the dogs Damian picked for the two to learn the commands with. It took Damian a bit of trial and error figuring out what commands each dog knew and what ones had different commands for the same motion. Then it took even longer to retrain them to all follow the same commands. He kept in mind the 'specialized' commands for a few of the dogs and didn't try teaching them to the whole group. Ree tried the command he was teaching them first, his dog being Diesel.
"Trii-cheiu, (sit)." Ree raised his wing-arm, though he couldn’t snap he still did the gesture. The boxer he was talking to blankly tilted his head. Damian chuckled and helped out the bird, knowing they all tend to have problems pronouncing new words without a chirp to them.
"You pronounced his name wrong, he doesn't know you're talking to him. It's more like 'Dee-sell'. The 's' is sharp enough it is almost pronounced as a 'z'." Ree practiced a few times as Scales took her try. She pronounced her dog's name a bit slow, but it was recognizable.
"D-ing-oh, (sit)." The stocky dog hesitated, glancing at Damian for a few seconds, but eventually plopped down then panted in a smile imitation. Scales' tail wagged violently, and she wordlessly cooed and trilled happily. Dingo didn't yet understand that was praise so Damian jumped in really quick to let her know she did good.
"Good girl, Dingo! Good girl!" He made sure to over exaggerate his excitement and made wide happy gestures before smothering the dog in pets and scratches. Dingo goes wild. She jumps up, bounces around a few times, then bolts into excited zoomies. A few of the other dogs joined in on the zoomies. Ree tried again on his command.
"Dee-zell, (sit)." The boxer's cropped ears perked and he promptly sat. Before Damian could, Ree copied his bigwing's previous praising and flared his wings. "Good! Good boy!" He praised, overly happy. Diesel's whole body perked up and he jumped up, landed in a playbow, then spun a few times before joining in on the zoomies with a butt-tuck run when Damian smooched at him. Damian laughed at the zooming dogs and shuffled over to be closer to his chicks, just in case the dogs tried to do fly-bys.
"Good job, you two. We're almost completely through the basic commands. I didn't think we'd get through them this quickly." His chicks cooed, trilled, and wiggled happily at the praise. Damian chuckled and rubbed their feathered heads, making a few bits of baby-fluff fall off as he drew back. He played with the few bits stuck to his fingers and watched his chicks play with the dogs as they started to wrestle. All of the dogs were bigger than them, if only slightly, but they were gentle when letting the chicks join in.
As they played he looked over them. They had changed a lot in the last month or so since the disaster of their first flying lesson. In that time, they had a few more lessons and were almost completely capable of flight, they still had a bit of supervision when they did though. They had lost almost all of their baby-fluff and their adult plumage was sported on the vast majority of their bodies. They still had to shed the last bits of fluff and a few of their baby-scales but that wouldn't take much longer. Damian was still taken with their coloring and patterns. And often found himself studying them over and over like he used to with their parents when he first got here.
Ree was a slightly grey-tinted shade of green with his scales slowly getting darker the higher they went. His stomach was a dirt brown color with a more red-ish clay spot on his chest. All his plumage was a light orage-ish brown color and he had speckles of more pastel green under his right eye and in a clump on his left jaw. His beak took the coloring of Blueberry's, a near-black color, but had the shape of Ruby's. His ears took after Violet's, long and pointed like a stretched fox's. His feathers and fur were more pressed down and made him look slimmer overall. His eyes changed from their baby brown-gold color to a beautiful sky blue.
Scales, on the other hand, had the coloring more towards a bumble bee (from what he remembered anyways). Her main coloring was a bright sunshine yellow that slowly grew more towards orange towards her underbelly and beak. On her chest was a splash-like clump of pink feathers. Her scales were less than her brother's and were a deep brown-ish color. The feathers and fur edging them were a deep enough brown to basically be black. Her plumage reminded him somewhat of Ruby and Sky's. It had a gradual fade towards the end like Sky but the pink-ish color of Ruby. She had near-neon yellow speckles too, like her brother, but the clumps were a bit larger. She had them ending on her wing-forearms like Violet's and a big clump scattered around the left side of her face. Her feathers weren't quite as fluffy as Sky's but was pretty close. Her beak had the shape of Violet's and the near-white tan color of Ruby's. Her eyes had a beautiful dual color in each eye. The top majority was a hot pink/magenta color while the bottom and inside edge was more of a petal/pastel pink.
Both were gorgeous and made Damian wonder how the genetics of their species worked to allow that vast difference in coloration and patterns when compared to all four of their parents, who tended to be different shades of the same color throughout. Ree had finally slowed his quite concerning growth rate and was starting to level out around Damian's upper thigh/lower hip, exceeding the taller of his fathers by quite the margin. All four of his parents telling him that Ree was probably one of the largest of their species in multiple generations. Scales was now barely a third of her brother's size, if that, having evened out just barely shorter than Damian's knee. Apparently that was a bit shorter than average for the species with Ruby being more towards the upper part of the average size and Sky being borderline short.
A demanding snort drew his attention away from his chicks and to the window he claimed as 'his spot' so long ago (was it really only just over one of his years since he was brought here?). There he found Casper lazily curled and dozing on the floor with Ares propped up against her where Damian had set him to nap while he taught his chicks. Said child was no longer asleep though. He was very much awake and staring Damian down with an expression demanding to know why he thought it was a good idea to even dare to set him down and walk away. Nevermind Damian wasn't even ten steps away. Ares snorted demandingly at him again and glared harder at the human's amused snort back. Damian did walk over though and picked up the child when he raised his arms at him. Ares had changed a bit too over the month Damian had him. He'd filled out to a more healthy-looking weight, though he was still a bit thin, and Damian had finally managed to memorize how to properly trim the toddler's hooves and brush out his fur.
Ares still had the bird-like plush and brought it nearly everywhere with him. Said plush was now being whacked into the side of Damian's head. Apparently, Ares decided being held wasn't good enough and wanted something else. Damian tried blocking the hits or holding the toy, but the little brat only started using his hooves in his growing tantrum. Getting tired of being hit with no explanation, Damian took the advice of one of the texts he'd read about taking care of a Grongri child and yanked Ares away from him by his scruff to hang in mid-air. The toddler wiggled and squirmed to try and hit him more but eventually the tantrum dimmed, and he went limp, a small pout on his face.
"You ready to tell me what's wrong now?" He asked the child before he cradled him again. He'd only made that mistake once. He still had the bruises to prove it. Ares glumly flicked his right ear down (which he's learned is a non-verbal yes), pout still present. Damian finally cradled the toddler to his chest again and let him sniffle and bury against him in self-comfort until he was ready to talk. Damian glanced back at his chicks to see them flopped on the ground with the other dogs, all panting and exhausted by the play. Damian chuckled at them, earning an irritated crow from Scales. Damian snorted in amusement but let them be. Ares was finally willing to tell him what was wrong.
"Want learn too." Ares' understanding of both Common and English has come a long way in the past month. He still can't string a proper sentence together, but Damian can't tell if that is because of a lack of knowledge or just because he's a toddler. He has adjusted to the flock a bit too. With it being so different from the usual Grongri Sounder structure it is understandable. He does have a few hiccups here and there but now he mostly just watches the chicks' reaction to things when he is unsure.
"'Learn too'? You wanna learn how to command the dogs too?" Damian questions, making sure he had the same idea. Ares' ear flicked again while he nodded. Damian hugged him a bit closer.
"You're a bit too small for the dogs to obey you immediately but I can introduce one to you and have you start trying. How about that? Will that work?" Ares was quiet for a bit longer but eventually agreed. Damian smiled and praised him with a few pets, receiving a few happy rumbles in response. Damian glanced around at the dogs, trying to pick one for Ares to start working on. He doesn't think any would follow the commands without his own help but if he worked on one long enough it would eventually cave. His eye landed on Casper, who was still in the same curled position as before. She was the most maternal of the group and was the one who took to the children the easiest and quickest.
"Ok, little piglet. Let's start easy." He said as he set the runt down on his hooves. As he did he got Casper's attention and called to her. "Casper. (Stand)." The large white wolfdog looked at him then crawled to her paws. He praised her softly then turned back to Ares.
"Ok. We'll start with (come). Say her name, Casper, and tell her to (come)." He said as he sat down next to where the toddler stood. Ares' little hooves stomped a bit in his excitement, but he tried. He tested out the new word before he did. What he settled on wasn't the right pronunciation, but it was close. He could mostly pronounce the command correctly too, though with a pretty heavy accent.
"Gas-prrrr. (Come)." Casper tilted her head at the child and sniffed at him. She looked at Damian and he looked to Ares then back. Casper followed and glanced, then back. Ares deflated eventually when she still didn't approach so Damian thought up something quickly.
"Maybe she doesn't understand your accent. Try this," He patted the ground, "when you say it. She knows that gesture." Ares perked back up again.
"Okie!" He turned back to Casper and tried again. "Gas-prrrr." He crouched down and clumsily patted the ground like only a toddler could. "(Come)." Casper's ears perked but she still hesitated for a second before slowly padding over and stopping right in front of the child. Ares squealed in excitement, tail going wild and hooves stomping. Damian made his chuff-imitation as praise for the child as he pets Casper to do the same. Child happier now, he figures he could take the kid away for lunch without protest. Scooping up the toddler he received no complaint.
Looking to his chicks he clicked his tongue. He learned that was a good way to gain their attention with zero hesitation, no matter what they were doing. He found out by complete accident, to be honest. He was clicking at the dogs from a habit that hasn't broken despite the years away from the farm he grew up on. Sure enough, just like every time before, both chick's heads immediately whip up to look at him. Both still looked groggy like they had just woken up. They probably had.
"C'mon, you two. Lunch time." The two groaned but climbed to their feet. Damian smiled and them and patted them as they passed. Once they were well on their way, he called the dogs and gathered them as he left behind his chicks. The dogs happily trailed after, excited after they heard the word 'hungry' when he asked. He entered the flock's kitchen, pack in tow, only a handful of minutes later. He had to take a slightly more roundabout way over since some of the dogs hadn’t quite figured out the ladder-like walkways and ramps yet and he didn't want them to fall through and get hurt. His birds greeted him with their usual trills and Untruthful with their latest attempt at teasing.
"So, the Pack Master finally decided to grace us with his presence!" Damian let them know it was a good one by sending a tease back.
"I see you haven't gotten any less spikey yet, walking pincushion." Untruthful's eyes slowly shut in a smile and Damian sent one of his own back, momentarily closing his eyes in an imitation of them. Untruthful looked surprised then they eye-close-smiled harder, spike-crest wiggling their excitement. Damian chuckled at them and set down Ares in his make-shift baby seat.
He chatted with Violet as he grabbed and rationed out the dogs' small lunch. He ignored the protesting whines, grunts, and half-barks urging him to 'go faster already'. Violet advised him to use one type of meat instead of another because of both better nutrients for the dogs and there being more of it. He thanked her and did as told. The dogs' lunch wasn't that big, more of a snack than anything, but it kept them from pouting and begging when everyone else ate. It also had helped him give them meds when they were still healing. They were mostly fine now, apparently Galactic Standard medicine works faster than the stuff he remembers. Finishing with the dogs' food he picks up the bowls, stacking a few to do so, and turns around. He walked past the dogs, chuckling at the excited spins, bounces, and tippy-taps they did as they followed him. He glanced back at them once he made it to the wall the flock had designated as their eating area.
He gave them a stern look and waited. They all eventually sat down, some more slow and reluctant than others. Once they did he placed down the bowls in the designated spots. Braxton and Casper had two stepstool-stand things he placed their bowls on because of how big they were. Once all the bowls were down he turned to look at the dogs. He waited in silence for a bit, snapping or humming warningly whenever one tried to shuffle forward. Once he deemed it long enough he gave the sort-of-command he was on the tail end of teaching them.
"(Ok)." When he said that all five dogs ran over to their bowls and started to eat. Damian strode back over to the counter and helped his birds move some plates to the table then settled cross-legged in his usual spot, Ares immediately crawling into his lap and Scales fluttering to perch on the shoulder opposite the side her brother sat on. The flock started to grab food and eat as they chatted with each other. Damian grabbed a little more than a double portion of fruits, beans (or maybe they were berries?), and a few crunchy finger foods he thinks may be cooked or specially prepared insects. He grabbed roughly more than a single portion (for someone his size anyways) of meats, the few root vegetables presented, and what he thinks may be foods made of bone pieces.
Once his plate was full he placed it down in front of him he reached over to grab a smaller plate and started making that one with tiny portions, letting his three kids have free pickings of his plate as he did. When he finished that plate he sat it in front of mini, receiving a grateful squeak before she dug in. He then propped his arms on the table, completely ignoring both his plate and the children stealing from it as he chattered on with his flock. By the time everyone finished his kids had their fill and were starting to fall asleep like usual after eating.
As his flock started gathering their dishes and the extra food on the table, Damian glanced at what was left of his plate. He made a mental note of how there weren’t as much leftovers as before and to grab bigger portions for dinner. As his flock started to disperse he looked to the dogs and said one of the first new commands he taught them.
"(Pups)." He got their attention. "(Take)." He ordered as he lifted up the half-asleep toddler on his lap. The dogs made whisper-boofs to show they heard and the largest three walked over to pick up the kids by their scruffs. Casper (the biggest, though not my much) grabbed Ree, Braxton grabbed Ares, and Dingo walked over to carefully lift Scales from his shoulder. Once they had a firm grip, they looked to Damian for further instruction.
"(To bed)" He directed as he pointed out the door they came from. The pack turned and left him alone in the room. He sighed to himself once he couldn't hear them anymore and looked back at the leftovers on the plate before him. It was maybe under half a portion for his size, probably less. He glanced at the counters and saw all the leftover food was already put up. He could go grab more but even half a portion for him would be nearly three or four large portions for his flock. No. It wasn’t worth it. He'll just grab more tonight.
He ate the leftovers in silence. Since he's got the dogs his head has been a bit quieter, though not silent. Apparently he was still enough for the building to register the room as empty, and the lights cut out. He blinked and paused at the sudden darkness but there was barely a second of blindness before some of his voices put their hands on his mental controls, giving his eyes a boost of minor night vision. It wasn’t much better than his natural amount of it but it helped. He decided not to go turn on the lights again and continued to eat his food as he peacefully listened to the soft chattering of his voices.
submitted by Galaxy_the_nightwing to humansarespaceorcs [link] [comments]


2024.05.17 00:26 axlrod 10" rack in small apartment

10
https://preview.redd.it/32wq1s6t6v0d1.jpg?width=2751&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=17000a35dfaed75fd04555959c5b8dfb525ac1f9
https://preview.redd.it/6oxduyet6v0d1.jpg?width=2461&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d6510ce0aa9d8ee5825a8be74afa506ad8f7d061
https://preview.redd.it/jiwg8cnt6v0d1.jpg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=61f5deac77b9d0284f703af94a711337bacde9c8
Awaiting some keystone blockers, and a 10" switch mount for my Ubiquiti 8-60W
I blame Jeff Gerling for this!
Rack: I-CASE EM-1009BKEC Fit perfectly in Ikea Kallax, and had enough depth for the PC case.
Top to bottom: PC Case: 10 inch 2U Mini-ITX case from myElectronics I can't find anything else for 10" racks.. PC: AMD 5600G, 64GB ram, 500gb boot m.2, 2x 4TB Samsung Evo, 2x 4tb Crucial P3 Plus, 200w Pico PSU. Running Proxmox, docker, talos k8s. Had to hang power out of the keystone hole, as there is not much room behind.
Digitus 12 port patch panel RJ45-45 Keystones to make patching simple. Digitus dust panel Unused for now.. 8 port switch: Ubiquiti US-8-60W (modded removed blinking lights connector) Wife approved. Digitus Shelf There are quite a few, this one has no lip and leaves room above/below Digitus Blank panel Unifi Express -- Phillips Hue Bridge LCD usually off (Wife Approval) Digitus Shelf Digitus Blank panel 4 port power strip reversed Power brick: 200w massive brick for the PC.
submitted by axlrod to homelab [link] [comments]


2024.05.17 00:25 Free-Procedure7666 Displays?

Just a curiosity question, I work on the distribution side of the business so the only affiliation I have with the stores really is when I go into them to shop. I know what the MET team is, but are they the ones that build the cabinetry displays and Mini kitchen displays in the stores? I have a family member who says he used to do that years ago fOR Home Depot but did not actually work for the company. He did contractor work. Curious how it works now. Thanks.
submitted by Free-Procedure7666 to HomeDepot [link] [comments]


2024.05.16 23:43 LordXamon Vanilla-friendly mod recommendations. QoL, performance, retextures, and more!

Let me share my 3000h of modded wisdom with you, my fellow vanilla comrades. My attempt here is to provide you with as many as possible improvements to the base game while keeping the style, balance, and content as vanilla as possible. As they say, when it works the best is when you don't realize it is there. I guarantee you that after playing for a while with these, you will no longer be able to tell what's from the base game and what's not.
You don't know how to mod? Maybe this very basic guide will help. Please, note that many mods come with options to tune up your experience. It is recommended you give them a look.
You can find the steam collection here. Be aware that some of these mods require the DLCs. You don't have the DLCs? Just don't use the mod.
Dependencies:
Performance
Minor changes
Major changes
Balance
Content
Atmospheric changes
Bonus: comics! And the occasional animation. I noticed newbies aren't aware of these, so I linked the profiles of all the artists I could remember. Sorry if I missed someone. u/daleksdeservevictory, u/AzulCrescent, u/AetherealVanguard, u/ATTF , u/Aelanna , srgrafo, u/Fonzawa, u/Ivancmedia, u/zyll3, u/meto30, u/AeolysScribbles, u/cavalier753, u/GABESTFY, u/VectorData, u/arxian, u/Nguyenanh2132, u/sorrowful_dance, u/meto30, u/-desdinova-, u/truffli
submitted by LordXamon to RimWorld [link] [comments]


2024.05.16 23:27 RecceRick Kitchen Color/Theme Ideas?

Kitchen ColoTheme Ideas?
So I just bought this house and I want to make some changes to the kitchen. A full reno might happen one day, but for now I’m only interested in minoaffordable aesthetic changes. I’m awful at composing coherent themes so I’m seeking advice.
Cabinets: I hate the wood color and I want to paint them. I was thinking either black or white.
Counter: This is laminate, I will eventually replace it with white quartz but for now I want to paint it. Not sure if I should do black or white, or some other complimentary color I can’t think of?
Walls: The walls will be white, but I want to add backsplash. Either the mainstream glossy white rectangular tiles, or the white smeared stone look.
I’m open to any and all ideas!
submitted by RecceRick to InteriorDesign [link] [comments]


2024.05.16 23:21 ANITIX87 Minisplit vs "Balancing" HVAC?

Hi, all. Long post, apologies in advance. My wife and I bought a house last August (~3000 square feet including basement) and our heating/cooling bills are a little higher than we expected, though not anything we're too bothered by. However, we're having a hell of a time keeping the house comfortable. We have 1-zone central air and 3-zone baseboard (natural gas) heating. Everything is being controlled by Ecobee thermostats. The house was built in 2000 and everything is original, including the boiler and all HVAC equipment. Our daughter's room receives a ton of direct sunlight and, to keep her comfortable, we aim for 70 degrees in her room at night (second floor).
In summer, with central air on, the baby's room is 70 degrees, our master bedroom is around 68 degrees, guest bedroom is 76 degrees (even more sun), the living room is 65 degrees, and the basement stays around 72 since it has no air conditioning.
In winter, with baseboards on, the baby's room is 70 degrees, our master is 64 degrees, guest room is 72 degrees, downstairs is 70 degrees (has its own zone) and the basement is 70 degrees (has its own zone).
That means we're constantly putting on sweatshirts, adding blankets, or removing extra layers depending on where in the house we go, and I can't imagine it's as efficient as it could be, Additionally, it means I can't have the Ecobee system set to auto, because the heating zones on the lower floor fight with the central zone master zone as the other areas get much colder than the baby's room. Over the last few weeks, I've been manually switching between heating and cooling depending on outside temperature.
I'm looking for alternatives. I imagine putting in mini-splits in the entire house would be the most efficient solution but would also be a huge up-front expense. My utility company has an online cost estimator which suggests it would take roughly 18 years to pay for itself. I'm guessing I would need 10 units (4 bedrooms, kitchen, living room, dining room, basement main area, basement office, basement back room).
Would getting smart vents like Flair help at all? I'm not sure it would, but I don't know how I can program the Ecobee (or my Home Assistant) most effectively and whether there would be ways to balance it accordingly (I think having a single cooling zone is the bottleneck).
Would love some advice.
submitted by ANITIX87 to hvacadvice [link] [comments]


2024.05.16 23:11 Weathers_Writing They call Silicon Valley the tech capitol of the world. They're wrong

I won't disclose its actual location, so if that's why you're here, sorry to disappoint. It's not time for that yet. However, I do think it's time to start getting the word out. I've noticed an increase in what I'll call "Antennas" lately, or people who can detect cross-planar phase shifts. Without getting into all the math (some of which I don't even know), this is basically a phenomenon which refers to entropy seeping into our universe from other realms or universes or whatever you want to call it. Simply put, people think our universe is a closed system to entropy, meaning that the disorder of any variable in our universe can only increase or decrease in direct proportion to other variables in that same system (the universe). Under this precept, we can establish rules like the Laws of Thermodynamics, and for most people, they're effective. But not for Antennas.
Put another way, if you throw a bunch of bouncy balls into a box, there are a number of different configurations that the balls could take on, with different speeds and magnitudes. You can calculate all of those if you have the right numbers. Now let's say you throw in another set of balls that you don't consider in your calculations of the initial set. Well, then you're not going to get an accurate picture of what's happening. Most people only see the first set and calculate based on that, but some people can see two, three, four or more sets.
You'll understand the concept better when I tell you the story, but I wanted to give you a primer on an important concept that will help you understand why this place, which I'll call "Area X", exists, and what the goals of the people who work there are.
Also note that I'm going to be using the alias "Trent" moving forward. Please refer to me as such in any direct messages.
***
Eighteen years ago I started working as an independent Home Inspector. I dropped out of community college after my first semester (not because I didn't find some of the subjects interesting, but because deference to a man or woman has never been my style) and started working some odd jobs. I did construction work for a couple years, then plumbing. I even drove a garbage truck for six months. I've always found pleasure in using my hands, and getting dirty was never a problem for me. Still, having a boss really dragged ass, so I spent my free time working on creating my own business. It took a few years and lots of savings, but I finally managed to get basic set of Home Inspection equipment: Tyvek coveralls, a cheap half-face respirator, voltage & AFCI/GFCI testers, CO2 and radon monitors, an IR camera, and telescoping mirrors in addition to the boots, safety glasses, electric gloves, ladder, and toolkits I already had on hand.
My buddy at the time was in the business, but he was moving off to the coast, so he helped me get set up and even introduced me to some of his clients. Of course, by that time I had already gotten my State license, but I still was a bit apprehensive to work with insurance agencies. I thought I could make a living working independently, inspecting for mold or sizing up a house for a prospective buyer. Eventually, though, I realized I should probably take every job available to me.
Easing into the business went about as well as it could have. The clients my friend referred to me were very satisfied with my work, and I was able to retain them. Then, in order to increase my reach, I hired someone on Fiverr to build a website for my company which led to a marked increase in traffic and conversions. About six months through, I began to get on a first-name basis with the boys and girls down down at Allstate and Progressive, and they fed me some of the bigger cases. In fact, I got so booked by year's end that I had to hire someone to help manage my schedule and the Excel spreadsheet with all my finances. I capped off a successful year with a 5-star Google rating and a trip to Ireland to visit some family and friends and get piss drunk. When I got back, it was the grindstone all over again, until the summer when I discovered… well, you'll see.
First off, I want to say that I was never one to believe in the paranormal. I grew up watching the movies and hearing the ghost stories round the campfire like every other kid, but it never struck a chord with me. If I can't touch it or see it or hear it, does it really exist? Probably not. So don't go thinking this was a scared man seeing his own shadow. That being said, I had this sense that something was off about this house when I parked along the curb and looked through a large window, perhaps two times the size of my van, to a dingy, dark foyer.
The entire neighborhood was stacked with upper-middle class domiciles, though it seemed like only two thirds of them were occupied, mostly by professionals who commuted to the City every weekday, and the rest were empty. As a man who understands real estate, to say this was strange would be an understatement. Still, I had no problem appraising the mini-mansion for a couple of newlyweds looking to enter the community. I did some research on the property ahead of time, and it seems that it was owned by a couple of old timers who had gone off the grid some time ago. The water and electric bill were both unpaid dating back to 2004 (it was June of '06 now). The bank had repo'd the house (which only had about 100k left on it) and held it for a year and a half before putting it back on the market. I tried to find out more about the old couple who vanished, but there was nothing in the news.
I stepped out of the van in my coveralls and grabbed my suitcase which had my mask, gloves, and eye protection in it. I liked to do a preliminary survey first, running an eye test on the exterior then interior before bringing out the big guns (that way I could identify the areas where I think there could be problems instead of running a metal detector over the whole damn ocean seaboard). I was about to do just that when the window caught my eye again. It felt uncharacteristic of me to be so occupied with this window, but I detoured to the front porch and peeked inside anyway.
Most of the furniture had already been moved out, meaning all that was left was a single three-seater couch, a couple candlesticks on the fireplace mantle, a pristine chandelier overtop a dining room table, and the kitchenware: an oven, gas stovetop, marble countertops, and an island. I could see into the living room very clearly with the afternoon light, but the dining room was dim enough that there were a few structures I couldn't quite make out in the distance. One of them appeared to be some kind of china cabinet or bookshelf—I figured it was the former considering where it was located. The other shadow looked kind of like a grandfather clock. Or at least that's what I thought until it moved.
When I say it "moved", I don't mean to say that it picked up and walked away. If you're not familiar with the Necker Cube, I suggest you search it up, because that kind of illusion is the best way to describe what I saw. At first I was seeing the grandfather clock in a certain way—pushed into the corner of the room—and the next second my vision "corrected" and it was maybe five feet to the left of its former position. I shook my head and looked again and saw the grandfather clock in its second orientation, standing in the center of the room against the wall. I figured I was just seeing things, but even so I spent a little extra time dawdling around the Egress window, taking notes, and delaying the interior inspection.
When I finally grew a pair and went inside, I walked straight to the dining room. Sure enough, the grandfather clock was stowed away in the corner of the room. I spent a couple minutes watching it with my pencil and travel notebook out. I'm the kind of guy that likes to collect hard data when the chips are down. Unfortunately, the clock apparently already had enough fun and was content with sweating me. Oh, well.
I fitted my pencil behind my ear and pocketed my travel notebook, then flipped the rest of the first floor lights on and completed my prelim. I concluded that everything was pretty standard. If anything, the house was in better shape than I'd expect considering it presumably hasn't been lived in for a couple years. I say "presumably" because one can never count out squatters, even during those times. Mainly I was expecting more dust build up and cobwebs than there were. Perhaps someone from the department had come by recently. It's unlikely, but possible.
I did the same check upstairs and it came back mostly clean. There was a bit of staining near the attic I wanted to check for mold. Based on its color, it was probably just a minor case of Aspergillus, but better safe than sorry. Then I got to the basement, and, well, let's just count out the idea of anyone dropping by. I don't know what I was expecting, but it certainly wasn't what I found.
The first thing that caught my eye was the long, slender body of a birch tree lying pale and dead across a large portion of the even larger unfinished basement's cement flooring. I had to do a double take to make sure I wasn't dreaming, but, yep, there it was. Its crown was sealed up in the wall with only its trunk hanging out, which made me think of those medieval pillory devices which locked up people's heads and arms. Then confetti-scattered around the tree and all over the basement floor was a minefield of broken glass and ceramic tangled up with a set of random objects. And when I say random, I mean random. There was an unfurled Somali flag (the blue one with a single star in the center), some packaged drinks and condiments branded with all sorts of different languages (I could only make out Gaelic and Chinese or Japanese, I couldn't quite tell), a broken dome-shaped security camera, an otoscope (the thing the doc uses to check your ears), Hot Wheels cars (okay that one isn't so strange), and the list goes on.
At that moment, I wasn't freaked out or disgusted. I was more or less just confused. I started walking through the rubble, trying to avoid the sharp fragments but pretty confident that my steel toed boots would crush most the pieces anyway, when I heard a clink just up ahead. I was able to spot the coin in time, just before it jingled to a halt atop an old Life magazine. I picked it up and noted right away its oval shape and bronze color—clearly not American made. I tried reading it, but not only was the language not English, it appeared to be so old that most of the lettering had been filed down. I looked up at the ceiling to see if it dropped from a shelf, but there was nothing that could have been holding the coin. I considered for a moment, looking around at the other junk, and had the crazy idea that maybe all this stuff just appeared here. I popped the coin in my pocket and headed back to the van when I stopped by the tree and realized something. It wasn't a birch tree—it was a palm tree. I just didn't realize because of how ashy and decayed the bark was.
Now at this point you might think I've been acting a little nonchalant for such a strange occurrence, and I don't blame you, but if you're gonna stick around with me that's just something you're gonna have to get used to. I guess I was just born with a screw loose, but I really don't scare easily, and I tend to look at everything pragmatically. If you dig deep enough, you'll always find another plausible explanation. That being said, I do want to get to the part about Area X, so let me give you the rundown on what I learned about this basement.
I ended up trekking back to the van and picking up my gear. I was no longer running the routine inspection, obviously, but I figured I might as well throw 30 thousand dollars of scanning equipment at whatever the fuck anamoly existed in that basement. Most of it came back negative. There was a bit higher-than-usual EM interference as picked up on the voltmeters, but nothing that screamed danger close. Still, it was enough for me to set up my volt testers and IR camera while muddling through the rest of the junk. I won't bore you with another list of items, but I did find one thing of value: a diamond necklace. And not just any diamond necklace, it was one of those Queen-wearing, multi-row, big-jeweled necklaces like out of some Historical Fiction movie from the thirties. I almost didn't pocket it because I'm used to expensive items being owned by someone… someone who might want it back. But I figured if there was ever a place the finder's keeper's rule applied, it was probably in this Quantum graveyard.
7 O'clock rolled around and I hadn't eaten. I'm a pretty bulky guy, carrying my share of both muscle and fat, and most people think that means I need to eat a ton but that's really not the case. Mostly I just get dehydrated easily, especially in the summer. That said, I was bordering on famished territory and considered heading out for a bite when I heard another sound. The first thing I did was check my scanners, and sure enough the voltage needle was fully spun to the right side of the dial. EM interference. Then I went to see what had dropped. I was able to pick the object out pretty quickly since I had spent the last 6 hours staring at the mosaic of a basement floor. It was a silver briefcase, like one of those out of a crime novel, and it was cracked open.
I had this sense then that I was standing at a precipice, and if I opened the briefcase and looked inside, I wouldn't be able to stop whatever would come afterwards. Part of me deep down knew that I was just that type of guy that had to know, and maybe this was my Hamlet moment where it would be a trait gone a step too far. But then again I didn't really believe in any of that sentimental bullshit, so I opened the briefcase.
The gun surprised me a little, but not as much as the piece of paper laid atop a case file reading in large black font, "FIND ME". I expected the envelope to have some missing person file in it, but instead there were all these schematics and blueprints for some kind of device. Whatever it was, it was pretty massive. Some of the lengths were hundreds of meters long. And what's more strange is based on the blueprint's locale, it appeared to be underground. I looked back through the pages a couple times, then checked the note—nothing strange there. The gun appeared to be a simple glock. I was no gun expert, but I had been to the range pretty regularly with my construction buddies, so I got used to the feel of a pistol and rifle and some of the different names; however, I realized pretty quickly it wasn't your standard glock when I couldn't find mag-release. That's when I noticed how light the gun felt. I tried to chamber a round, but again, there was no hammer. What the hell kind of gun was this?
I ended up throwing everything back in the briefcase, including the necklace, coin, and a few Koozies I found that were branded with one of my favorite sports teams (never let an opportunity go to waste). I put up all my shit back in the van and spun over to a local burger joint, got my fill, and went home. I made sure to draft an email to the prospective buyers, telling them the house had several patches of black mold and a bit of a rat problem before drifting off to sleep. Although I really didn't do much of that.
When I woke up, I took a cold shower and downed a can of Reign, then commuted to my gym and got a lift and some sauna time in before making the trip back to the house. I brought some extra supplies with me for some experiments I cooked up while not sleeping the previous night.
First, I had two camcorders set up on a couple tripods in either corner of the basement. I wanted clear footage of these mystery objects spawning in. Then I set up a voltmeter in a similar fashion, but I had a wire extending out of it on a circuit which fed to an alarm that would blare when the reading was over 250 volts. Upstairs, I rearranged some of the furniture so that the small number of tables, chairs, clock, cabinets, and other little pillows or vases I could find were scattered across the living room, dining room, and kitchen. Then I pulled up a lawn chair to the front porch window and waited.
I didn't have to wait long though. In about a minute, I started to notice some of the objects moving. It was strange. When a few of them would shift simultaneously, it was like looking at a holographic card that would change shape depending on where your eyes were in relation to the image. Every time I saw a shift, I felt an awkward feeling in my eyes. They went blurry for a fraction of a second, then there was a twinge of pain, as if my brain couldn't handle the contradictory stimulus. It didn't get more crazy than that though—until the alarm went off.
I had cracked open the small rectangular window in the basement to the side of the house so I would hear it. It took four hours and several strange stares from passersby walking their dogs before it rang, so I was a bit lost in my thoughts, but when I heard the beep I perked up fast. It lasted for maybe 5 seconds total, but what I saw was truly miraculous. The best way I can describe it is a pool of silver or gray or translucent light emerging in the foreground between me and the objects in the different rooms. A series of twisting tentacles sprouted from the gray octopus-like head and spun in a way that reminded me of that little kids ride at the amusement parks. Then the objects started to "heat up" is the way I describe it. Their position became relative, meaning they were here one second, there another, then they popped out of existence entirely. Suddenly the rooms were all empty, then they were full of things I had never seen before. Then five seconds passed and the octopus vanished and it was back to the same old objects in their usual places.
It took a few minutes to process what I saw, and even then I wasn't sure I really saw it. I went inside and looked around at my distribution of the house's furnishings. They were all there, intact. Then I went downstairs to check the cams. I rewinded a couple minutes and played it back, but there was no flying object to be found. Instead, there was some gray static that lasted half a second and then the object, a kid's treasure chest toy, was there on the ground. But you want to know the really strange part? I rewinded the tape again, and when I watched the footage back, the treasure chest was always there.
I later came to understand that these poppings in-and-out of our reality are only conceivable to a conscious mind that can track the interference patterns—not rote computational instruments. In fact, even most people can't do it (although everyone has at least a slight awareness of it, even if only subconsciously). Plus, locations like the basement of this house are very rare and kept under tight lock. That became obvious to me two days later when, after my normal morning routine, I pulled up to a driveway and curbside filled with unmarked government vehicles. Either bravely or stupidly, I pulled up to a few officers (they were wearing suits in 85 degree weather, so I assumed…) who were idling by the large fence of crime scene tape and asked them what the score was.
"There was a crime," said the short man with a unibrow.
"Oh, is that right? Damn shame. Someone break in? I have a niece who lives nearby, so…"
The man looked at his two compatriots, both of whom were wearing sunglasses and a "get this civilian fuck out of here" expressions. "Oh, yeah," he started in a reassuring tone that was so condescending it would have annoyed anyone except me, "we found a body. We think it was a homicide. Best to keep your kids away from here for a while."
I thumbed the stubble on my chin, my other hand outstretched on the wheel, and considered moving on, but my mouth had other ideas. "That right? But uh, isn't this house vacant? I mean, I don't remember no one living in it."
The short man, now tall with temper, said, "Yeah, some squatters. We think there was a dispute over some drug money. Nothing for you to worry about though, we got it under control. Now if you wouldn't mind moving along, we have a lot of work to do."
Oh, I'm sure you do, I thought, but only said, "Of course, sir, sorry for keeping you from your job." Then I rolled up the window and cruised on, keeping my eyes on the house which slowly diminished in the side-view mirror.
Luckily I had been smart enough to break down my camp and lug home all my equipment each night, so I didn't leave anything incriminating. I didn't move the furniture back, so maybe that would come back to haunt me, but considering the kind of shit going down in that house, I didn't think they would notice.
For any of you wondering about the conclusion of the house story, I went back a couple weeks later after the suits had left and the tape was taken down and confirmed that not only was the basement entirely cleaned out, but it was no longer exhibiting any strange properties. I looked for a story related to the house, maybe a made up murder of some kind, but there was nothing. That bastard lied to me and didn't even bother to cover his story up.
Now, in the aftermath of an event such as this, I really only had one of two options. I could forget it, move on, continue living life. The necklace was surely worth a fortune. I could sell it and have enough to retire, or at least hire enough people and expand my business large enough to retire within ten or so years. Or I could take all that money and invest it in my own PI business with only a single objective: finding out what those people knew, and why they were hiding it.
I think you know me well enough by now to guess which line of reasoning appealed more to me.
***
For the sake of brevity, I'm going to omit most of my encounters along the journey to discovering Area X. There's a lot to tell, and if it appeals to you perhaps I'd be willing to share at a later date, but for now I want to get this part of the story, the more proximal part, out in the open.
Three years ago, I discovered the source of what I'll call "The Receiver". This is the device that was schematized in the documents that I found in the briefcase. What it does is a complex answer, and how it does it is pretty much all speculation, but here's what I've been able to find out: this universe we live in is a node in a network of many other spaces. These spaces exist in higher dimensions that we cannot directly perceive, but using a conceivable analogy, just think about a flower with petals. The petals are these other dimensions which bleed into our world, which is at the center. However, it's not that pretty. We see the physical world through the lens of spacetime: sizes, speeds, etc. These other dimensions don't necessarily have space or time. In fact, what actually exists there, I couldn't say. The only data I have on them is from two sources: correspondence information and server data from the secret agency (which I'll call "the Organization") that keeps this under wraps, and first-hand experience with realms from these other entities, either directly (I experience it) or through the eyes of someone else with the same or greater abilities than I possess.
I referred to these people with abilities earlier as "Antennas", and I will continue to use the term. Antennas really come in three flavors, marked by the strength of their ability: weak Antennas, like me, are able to observe spontaneous interactions between our universe and other dimensions (phase shifts) when there is a strong force of collision like existed in the basement; moderate Antennas may see phase shifts occur at any point, and they usually are able to retain memories from across the different transformations; strong Antennas, and I don't know if they exist yet, but they are able to consciously interact with these other realms and cause phase shifts to occur.
I mentioned that moderate Antennas are able to retain memories from before and after a phase shift. Technically, all Antennas have this ability, but it's about degree. I can recall only very specific instances and without much detail. Moderates are usually able to pick out much more nuanced minutiae. At the lower end of moderate scale, most of those details fade or get fuzzy over time, but for the very strong Antennas, they hold onto almost everything. One other property that scales with strength is interaction with other conscious entities. Only a small percentage of moderates are able to do this. What's interesting is that these entities can possess (yes, like ghosts) people who aren't even antennas, but no one is aware of such possession at this deep of a level. I have several companions now, and only two have had interactions with these otherworldly beings. Not all of them are malevolent, some of them are whimsical or kind, but there are a fair share of demons out there.
Getting back to the point, Area X started as a government funded project in the 70's. At that time, they were focused on a few subjects: Artificial Intelligence, DNA sequencing, and psychedelics. Yes, they were part of the infamous LSD experiments. But they looked at these subjects through a common lens—there was something that the burgeoning tech industry, fueled by the advent of a commercial computer market, was missing. As the tech giants rose in the early 2000's and began to collect mass amounts of data, this other agency was decades ahead in a different metric, although it was completely (and still is) hidden from the public. Their efforts to understand psychedelic experiences led to a formalized method of understanding interactions between multiple realities. They built certain scanning equipment to detect anomalies like the one I found in the basement; although their tools were much more sophisticated and didn't utilize voltage readings. Then they ran tests in these areas. One area in particular is a hot-bed of phase shift interactions. That's where Area X is located (and the Receiver).
The Receiver is a giant electromagnetic orb that has trapped the kind of multi-dimensional energy that causes the phase shifts; since the Organization seized control of the lab, it's effectively become a map of the Earth in relation to these other worlds. For the past twenty or so years, the Organization has been studying this map, using the data big Tech companies have collected to essentially develop a Rosetta Stone for interpreting the meaning of the fluctuations in their scanning equipment. Recently, the public, though going the long way round, was actually pretty close to a breakthrough in this same department until recently when ultra-powerful LLMs surfaced, and the whole world began going down what I'd argue is the wrong rabbit hole of language processing. But I digress.
Area X is essentially a private military base built for defending the most impactful piece of technology ever invented. With the Receiver, the Organization now has the power to essentially predict any and all future outcomes, the only thing holding them back is the limitations of their own scanning equipment which will get better with time. To put it into perspective, the Organization has access to a kind of data allocation tool which in one day can produce over ten thousand times that the Big Data companies combined would be able to filter through in the next decade. You might think, then, that the problem is merely asymmetric power, and that is certainly a concern, but it isn't the main concern. The main issue is that this organization is actively recruiting (and kidnapping) Antennas from around the world in an effort to find or make one of them into a strong Antenna. In other words, they want a subject who is able not only to see the future, but to manipulate it at will.
balance to the world. I've been working on amassing resources, capital, and building my own team, and now I'm ready. You might ask why I'm posting this here. Wouldn't it be better to keep all this secret? Well, yes, it would be. But that's the problem. Nothing is secret anymore. They know about me and the others, and if I don't make a move, they will. In a way, this is a letter directly to the organization that I know, and I'm coming.
In a different way, I wanted to release this information to the public. There are lots of people out there waking up and realizing that the world they experience is not the one others experience. If you think you might be an Antenna, don't be afraid—you have a special gift that can be controlled. If you want more details on how to control it, or if you're interested in my mission, don't be afraid to reach out. This hasn't always been my life's work, but it is now.
At least until I die.
submitted by Weathers_Writing to weatherswriting [link] [comments]


2024.05.16 23:10 Weathers_Writing They call Silicon Valley the tech capitol of the world. They're wrong

I won't disclose its actual location, so if that's why you're here, sorry to disappoint. It's not time for that yet. However, I do think it's time to start getting the word out. I've noticed an increase in what I'll call "Antennas" lately, or people who can detect cross-planar phase shifts. Without getting into all the math (some of which I don't even know), this is basically a phenomenon which refers to entropy seeping into our universe from other realms or universes or whatever you want to call it. Simply put, people think our universe is a closed system to entropy, meaning that the disorder of any variable in our universe can only increase or decrease in direct proportion to other variables in that same system (the universe). Under this precept, we can establish rules like the Laws of Thermodynamics, and for most people, they're effective. But not for Antennas.
Put another way, if you throw a bunch of bouncy balls into a box, there are a number of different configurations that the balls could take on, with different speeds and magnitudes. You can calculate all of those if you have the right numbers. Now let's say you throw in another set of balls that you don't consider in your calculations of the initial set. Well, then you're not going to get an accurate picture of what's happening. Most people only see the first set and calculate based on that, but some people can see two, three, four or more sets.
You'll understand the concept better when I tell you the story, but I wanted to give you a primer on an important concept that will help you understand why this place, which I'll call "Area X", exists, and what the goals of the people who work there are.
Also note that I'm going to be using the alias "Trent" moving forward. Please refer to me as such in any direct messages.
***
Eighteen years ago I started working as an independent Home Inspector. I dropped out of community college after my first semester (not because I didn't find some of the subjects interesting, but because deference to a man or woman has never been my style) and started working some odd jobs. I did construction work for a couple years, then plumbing. I even drove a garbage truck for six months. I've always found pleasure in using my hands, and getting dirty was never a problem for me. Still, having a boss really dragged ass, so I spent my free time working on creating my own business. It took a few years and lots of savings, but I finally managed to get basic set of Home Inspection equipment: Tyvek coveralls, a cheap half-face respirator, voltage & AFCI/GFCI testers, CO2 and radon monitors, an IR camera, and telescoping mirrors in addition to the boots, safety glasses, electric gloves, ladder, and toolkits I already had on hand.
My buddy at the time was in the business, but he was moving off to the coast, so he helped me get set up and even introduced me to some of his clients. Of course, by that time I had already gotten my State license, but I still was a bit apprehensive to work with insurance agencies. I thought I could make a living working independently, inspecting for mold or sizing up a house for a prospective buyer. Eventually, though, I realized I should probably take every job available to me.
Easing into the business went about as well as it could have. The clients my friend referred to me were very satisfied with my work, and I was able to retain them. Then, in order to increase my reach, I hired someone on Fiverr to build a website for my company which led to a marked increase in traffic and conversions. About six months through, I began to get on a first-name basis with the boys and girls down down at Allstate and Progressive, and they fed me some of the bigger cases. In fact, I got so booked by year's end that I had to hire someone to help manage my schedule and the Excel spreadsheet with all my finances. I capped off a successful year with a 5-star Google rating and a trip to Ireland to visit some family and friends and get piss drunk. When I got back, it was the grindstone all over again, until the summer when I discovered… well, you'll see.
First off, I want to say that I was never one to believe in the paranormal. I grew up watching the movies and hearing the ghost stories round the campfire like every other kid, but it never struck a chord with me. If I can't touch it or see it or hear it, does it really exist? Probably not. So don't go thinking this was a scared man seeing his own shadow. That being said, I had this sense that something was off about this house when I parked along the curb and looked through a large window, perhaps two times the size of my van, to a dingy, dark foyer.
The entire neighborhood was stacked with upper-middle class domiciles, though it seemed like only two thirds of them were occupied, mostly by professionals who commuted to the City every weekday, and the rest were empty. As a man who understands real estate, to say this was strange would be an understatement. Still, I had no problem appraising the mini-mansion for a couple of newlyweds looking to enter the community. I did some research on the property ahead of time, and it seems that it was owned by a couple of old timers who had gone off the grid some time ago. The water and electric bill were both unpaid dating back to 2004 (it was June of '06 now). The bank had repo'd the house (which only had about 100k left on it) and held it for a year and a half before putting it back on the market. I tried to find out more about the old couple who vanished, but there was nothing in the news.
I stepped out of the van in my coveralls and grabbed my suitcase which had my mask, gloves, and eye protection in it. I liked to do a preliminary survey first, running an eye test on the exterior then interior before bringing out the big guns (that way I could identify the areas where I think there could be problems instead of running a metal detector over the whole damn ocean seaboard). I was about to do just that when the window caught my eye again. It felt uncharacteristic of me to be so occupied with this window, but I detoured to the front porch and peeked inside anyway.
Most of the furniture had already been moved out, meaning all that was left was a single three-seater couch, a couple candlesticks on the fireplace mantle, a pristine chandelier overtop a dining room table, and the kitchenware: an oven, gas stovetop, marble countertops, and an island. I could see into the living room very clearly with the afternoon light, but the dining room was dim enough that there were a few structures I couldn't quite make out in the distance. One of them appeared to be some kind of china cabinet or bookshelf—I figured it was the former considering where it was located. The other shadow looked kind of like a grandfather clock. Or at least that's what I thought until it moved.
When I say it "moved", I don't mean to say that it picked up and walked away. If you're not familiar with the Necker Cube, I suggest you search it up, because that kind of illusion is the best way to describe what I saw. At first I was seeing the grandfather clock in a certain way—pushed into the corner of the room—and the next second my vision "corrected" and it was maybe five feet to the left of its former position. I shook my head and looked again and saw the grandfather clock in its second orientation, standing in the center of the room against the wall. I figured I was just seeing things, but even so I spent a little extra time dawdling around the Egress window, taking notes, and delaying the interior inspection.
When I finally grew a pair and went inside, I walked straight to the dining room. Sure enough, the grandfather clock was stowed away in the corner of the room. I spent a couple minutes watching it with my pencil and travel notebook out. I'm the kind of guy that likes to collect hard data when the chips are down. Unfortunately, the clock apparently already had enough fun and was content with sweating me. Oh, well.
I fitted my pencil behind my ear and pocketed my travel notebook, then flipped the rest of the first floor lights on and completed my prelim. I concluded that everything was pretty standard. If anything, the house was in better shape than I'd expect considering it presumably hasn't been lived in for a couple years. I say "presumably" because one can never count out squatters, even during those times. Mainly I was expecting more dust build up and cobwebs than there were. Perhaps someone from the department had come by recently. It's unlikely, but possible.
I did the same check upstairs and it came back mostly clean. There was a bit of staining near the attic I wanted to check for mold. Based on its color, it was probably just a minor case of Aspergillus, but better safe than sorry. Then I got to the basement, and, well, let's just count out the idea of anyone dropping by. I don't know what I was expecting, but it certainly wasn't what I found.
The first thing that caught my eye was the long, slender body of a birch tree lying pale and dead across a large portion of the even larger unfinished basement's cement flooring. I had to do a double take to make sure I wasn't dreaming, but, yep, there it was. Its crown was sealed up in the wall with only its trunk hanging out, which made me think of those medieval pillory devices which locked up people's heads and arms. Then confetti-scattered around the tree and all over the basement floor was a minefield of broken glass and ceramic tangled up with a set of random objects. And when I say random, I mean random. There was an unfurled Somali flag (the blue one with a single star in the center), some packaged drinks and condiments branded with all sorts of different languages (I could only make out Gaelic and Chinese or Japanese, I couldn't quite tell), a broken dome-shaped security camera, an otoscope (the thing the doc uses to check your ears), Hot Wheels cars (okay that one isn't so strange), and the list goes on.
At that moment, I wasn't freaked out or disgusted. I was more or less just confused. I started walking through the rubble, trying to avoid the sharp fragments but pretty confident that my steel toed boots would crush most the pieces anyway, when I heard a clink just up ahead. I was able to spot the coin in time, just before it jingled to a halt atop an old Life magazine. I picked it up and noted right away its oval shape and bronze color—clearly not American made. I tried reading it, but not only was the language not English, it appeared to be so old that most of the lettering had been filed down. I looked up at the ceiling to see if it dropped from a shelf, but there was nothing that could have been holding the coin. I considered for a moment, looking around at the other junk, and had the crazy idea that maybe all this stuff just appeared here. I popped the coin in my pocket and headed back to the van when I stopped by the tree and realized something. It wasn't a birch tree—it was a palm tree. I just didn't realize because of how ashy and decayed the bark was.
Now at this point you might think I've been acting a little nonchalant for such a strange occurrence, and I don't blame you, but if you're gonna stick around with me that's just something you're gonna have to get used to. I guess I was just born with a screw loose, but I really don't scare easily, and I tend to look at everything pragmatically. If you dig deep enough, you'll always find another plausible explanation. That being said, I do want to get to the part about Area X, so let me give you the rundown on what I learned about this basement.
I ended up trekking back to the van and picking up my gear. I was no longer running the routine inspection, obviously, but I figured I might as well throw 30 thousand dollars of scanning equipment at whatever the fuck anamoly existed in that basement. Most of it came back negative. There was a bit higher-than-usual EM interference as picked up on the voltmeters, but nothing that screamed danger close. Still, it was enough for me to set up my volt testers and IR camera while muddling through the rest of the junk. I won't bore you with another list of items, but I did find one thing of value: a diamond necklace. And not just any diamond necklace, it was one of those Queen-wearing, multi-row, big-jeweled necklaces like out of some Historical Fiction movie from the thirties. I almost didn't pocket it because I'm used to expensive items being owned by someone… someone who might want it back. But I figured if there was ever a place the finder's keeper's rule applied, it was probably in this Quantum graveyard.
7 O'clock rolled around and I hadn't eaten. I'm a pretty bulky guy, carrying my share of both muscle and fat, and most people think that means I need to eat a ton but that's really not the case. Mostly I just get dehydrated easily, especially in the summer. That said, I was bordering on famished territory and considered heading out for a bite when I heard another sound. The first thing I did was check my scanners, and sure enough the voltage needle was fully spun to the right side of the dial. EM interference. Then I went to see what had dropped. I was able to pick the object out pretty quickly since I had spent the last 6 hours staring at the mosaic of a basement floor. It was a silver briefcase, like one of those out of a crime novel, and it was cracked open.
I had this sense then that I was standing at a precipice, and if I opened the briefcase and looked inside, I wouldn't be able to stop whatever would come afterwards. Part of me deep down knew that I was just that type of guy that had to know, and maybe this was my Hamlet moment where it would be a trait gone a step too far. But then again I didn't really believe in any of that sentimental bullshit, so I opened the briefcase.
The gun surprised me a little, but not as much as the piece of paper laid atop a case file reading in large black font, "FIND ME". I expected the envelope to have some missing person file in it, but instead there were all these schematics and blueprints for some kind of device. Whatever it was, it was pretty massive. Some of the lengths were hundreds of meters long. And what's more strange is based on the blueprint's locale, it appeared to be underground. I looked back through the pages a couple times, then checked the note—nothing strange there. The gun appeared to be a simple glock. I was no gun expert, but I had been to the range pretty regularly with my construction buddies, so I got used to the feel of a pistol and rifle and some of the different names; however, I realized pretty quickly it wasn't your standard glock when I couldn't find mag-release. That's when I noticed how light the gun felt. I tried to chamber a round, but again, there was no hammer. What the hell kind of gun was this?
I ended up throwing everything back in the briefcase, including the necklace, coin, and a few Koozies I found that were branded with one of my favorite sports teams (never let an opportunity go to waste). I put up all my shit back in the van and spun over to a local burger joint, got my fill, and went home. I made sure to draft an email to the prospective buyers, telling them the house had several patches of black mold and a bit of a rat problem before drifting off to sleep. Although I really didn't do much of that.
When I woke up, I took a cold shower and downed a can of Reign, then commuted to my gym and got a lift and some sauna time in before making the trip back to the house. I brought some extra supplies with me for some experiments I cooked up while not sleeping the previous night.
First, I had two camcorders set up on a couple tripods in either corner of the basement. I wanted clear footage of these mystery objects spawning in. Then I set up a voltmeter in a similar fashion, but I had a wire extending out of it on a circuit which fed to an alarm that would blare when the reading was over 250 volts. Upstairs, I rearranged some of the furniture so that the small number of tables, chairs, clock, cabinets, and other little pillows or vases I could find were scattered across the living room, dining room, and kitchen. Then I pulled up a lawn chair to the front porch window and waited.
I didn't have to wait long though. In about a minute, I started to notice some of the objects moving. It was strange. When a few of them would shift simultaneously, it was like looking at a holographic card that would change shape depending on where your eyes were in relation to the image. Every time I saw a shift, I felt an awkward feeling in my eyes. They went blurry for a fraction of a second, then there was a twinge of pain, as if my brain couldn't handle the contradictory stimulus. It didn't get more crazy than that though—until the alarm went off.
I had cracked open the small rectangular window in the basement to the side of the house so I would hear it. It took four hours and several strange stares from passersby walking their dogs before it rang, so I was a bit lost in my thoughts, but when I heard the beep I perked up fast. It lasted for maybe 5 seconds total, but what I saw was truly miraculous. The best way I can describe it is a pool of silver or gray or translucent light emerging in the foreground between me and the objects in the different rooms. A series of twisting tentacles sprouted from the gray octopus-like head and spun in a way that reminded me of that little kids ride at the amusement parks. Then the objects started to "heat up" is the way I describe it. Their position became relative, meaning they were here one second, there another, then they popped out of existence entirely. Suddenly the rooms were all empty, then they were full of things I had never seen before. Then five seconds passed and the octopus vanished and it was back to the same old objects in their usual places.
It took a few minutes to process what I saw, and even then I wasn't sure I really saw it. I went inside and looked around at my distribution of the house's furnishings. They were all there, intact. Then I went downstairs to check the cams. I rewinded a couple minutes and played it back, but there was no flying object to be found. Instead, there was some gray static that lasted half a second and then the object, a kid's treasure chest toy, was there on the ground. But you want to know the really strange part? I rewinded the tape again, and when I watched the footage back, the treasure chest was always there.
I later came to understand that these poppings in-and-out of our reality are only conceivable to a conscious mind that can track the interference patterns—not rote computational instruments. In fact, even most people can't do it (although everyone has at least a slight awareness of it, even if only subconsciously). Plus, locations like the basement of this house are very rare and kept under tight lock. That became obvious to me two days later when, after my normal morning routine, I pulled up to a driveway and curbside filled with unmarked government vehicles. Either bravely or stupidly, I pulled up to a few officers (they were wearing suits in 85 degree weather, so I assumed…) who were idling by the large fence of crime scene tape and asked them what the score was.
"There was a crime," said the short man with a unibrow.
"Oh, is that right? Damn shame. Someone break in? I have a niece who lives nearby, so…"
The man looked at his two compatriots, both of whom were wearing sunglasses and a "get this civilian fuck out of here" expressions. "Oh, yeah," he started in a reassuring tone that was so condescending it would have annoyed anyone except me, "we found a body. We think it was a homicide. Best to keep your kids away from here for a while."
I thumbed the stubble on my chin, my other hand outstretched on the wheel, and considered moving on, but my mouth had other ideas. "That right? But uh, isn't this house vacant? I mean, I don't remember no one living in it."
The short man, now tall with temper, said, "Yeah, some squatters. We think there was a dispute over some drug money. Nothing for you to worry about though, we got it under control. Now if you wouldn't mind moving along, we have a lot of work to do."
Oh, I'm sure you do, I thought, but only said, "Of course, sir, sorry for keeping you from your job." Then I rolled up the window and cruised on, keeping my eyes on the house which slowly diminished in the side-view mirror.
Luckily I had been smart enough to break down my camp and lug home all my equipment each night, so I didn't leave anything incriminating. I didn't move the furniture back, so maybe that would come back to haunt me, but considering the kind of shit going down in that house, I didn't think they would notice.
For any of you wondering about the conclusion of the house story, I went back a couple weeks later after the suits had left and the tape was taken down and confirmed that not only was the basement entirely cleaned out, but it was no longer exhibiting any strange properties. I looked for a story related to the house, maybe a made up murder of some kind, but there was nothing. That bastard lied to me and didn't even bother to cover his story up.
Now, in the aftermath of an event such as this, I really only had one of two options. I could forget it, move on, continue living life. The necklace was surely worth a fortune. I could sell it and have enough to retire, or at least hire enough people and expand my business large enough to retire within ten or so years. Or I could take all that money and invest it in my own PI business with only a single objective: finding out what those people knew, and why they were hiding it.
I think you know me well enough by now to guess which line of reasoning appealed more to me.
***
For the sake of brevity, I'm going to omit most of my encounters along the journey to discovering Area X. There's a lot to tell, and if it appeals to you perhaps I'd be willing to share at a later date, but for now I want to get this part of the story, the more proximal part, out in the open.
Three years ago, I discovered the source of what I'll call "The Receiver". This is the device that was schematized in the documents that I found in the briefcase. What it does is a complex answer, and how it does it is pretty much all speculation, but here's what I've been able to find out: this universe we live in is a node in a network of many other spaces. These spaces exist in higher dimensions that we cannot directly perceive, but using a conceivable analogy, just think about a flower with petals. The petals are these other dimensions which bleed into our world, which is at the center. However, it's not that pretty. We see the physical world through the lens of spacetime: sizes, speeds, etc. These other dimensions don't necessarily have space or time. In fact, what actually exists there, I couldn't say. The only data I have on them is from two sources: correspondence information and server data from the secret agency (which I'll call "the Organization") that keeps this under wraps, and first-hand experience with realms from these other entities, either directly (I experience it) or through the eyes of someone else with the same or greater abilities than I possess.
I referred to these people with abilities earlier as "Antennas", and I will continue to use the term. Antennas really come in three flavors, marked by the strength of their ability: weak Antennas, like me, are able to observe spontaneous interactions between our universe and other dimensions (phase shifts) when there is a strong force of collision like existed in the basement; moderate Antennas may see phase shifts occur at any point, and they usually are able to retain memories from across the different transformations; strong Antennas, and I don't know if they exist yet, but they are able to consciously interact with these other realms and cause phase shifts to occur.
I mentioned that moderate Antennas are able to retain memories from before and after a phase shift. Technically, all Antennas have this ability, but it's about degree. I can recall only very specific instances and without much detail. Moderates are usually able to pick out much more nuanced minutiae. At the lower end of moderate scale, most of those details fade or get fuzzy over time, but for the very strong Antennas, they hold onto almost everything. One other property that scales with strength is interaction with other conscious entities. Only a small percentage of moderates are able to do this. What's interesting is that these entities can possess (yes, like ghosts) people who aren't even antennas, but no one is aware of such possession at this deep of a level. I have several companions now, and only two have had interactions with these otherworldly beings. Not all of them are malevolent, some of them are whimsical or kind, but there are a fair share of demons out there.
Getting back to the point, Area X started as a government funded project in the 70's. At that time, they were focused on a few subjects: Artificial Intelligence, DNA sequencing, and psychedelics. Yes, they were part of the infamous LSD experiments. But they looked at these subjects through a common lens—there was something that the burgeoning tech industry, fueled by the advent of a commercial computer market, was missing. As the tech giants rose in the early 2000's and began to collect mass amounts of data, this other agency was decades ahead in a different metric, although it was completely (and still is) hidden from the public. Their efforts to understand psychedelic experiences led to a formalized method of understanding interactions between multiple realities. They built certain scanning equipment to detect anomalies like the one I found in the basement; although their tools were much more sophisticated and didn't utilize voltage readings. Then they ran tests in these areas. One area in particular is a hot-bed of phase shift interactions. That's where Area X is located (and the Receiver).
The Receiver is a giant electromagnetic orb that has trapped the kind of multi-dimensional energy that causes the phase shifts; since the Organization seized control of the lab, it's effectively become a map of the Earth in relation to these other worlds. For the past twenty or so years, the Organization has been studying this map, using the data big Tech companies have collected to essentially develop a Rosetta Stone for interpreting the meaning of the fluctuations in their scanning equipment. Recently, the public, though going the long way round, was actually pretty close to a breakthrough in this same department until recently when ultra-powerful LLMs surfaced, and the whole world began going down what I'd argue is the wrong rabbit hole of language processing. But I digress.
Area X is essentially a private military base built for defending the most impactful piece of technology ever invented. With the Receiver, the Organization now has the power to essentially predict any and all future outcomes, the only thing holding them back is the limitations of their own scanning equipment which will get better with time. To put it into perspective, the Organization has access to a kind of data allocation tool which in one day can produce over ten thousand times that the Big Data companies combined would be able to filter through in the next decade. You might think, then, that the problem is merely asymmetric power, and that is certainly a concern, but it isn't the main concern. The main issue is that this organization is actively recruiting (and kidnapping) Antennas from around the world in an effort to find or make one of them into a strong Antenna. In other words, they want a subject who is able not only to see the future, but to manipulate it at will.
balance to the world. I've been working on amassing resources, capital, and building my own team, and now I'm ready. You might ask why I'm posting this here. Wouldn't it be better to keep all this secret? Well, yes, it would be. But that's the problem. Nothing is secret anymore. They know about me and the others, and if I don't make a move, they will. In a way, this is a letter directly to the organization that I know, and I'm coming.
In a different way, I wanted to release this information to the public. There are lots of people out there waking up and realizing that the world they experience is not the one others experience. If you think you might be an Antenna, don't be afraid—you have a special gift that can be controlled. If you want more details on how to control it, or if you're interested in my mission, don't be afraid to reach out. This hasn't always been my life's work, but it is now.
At least until I die.
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http://activeproperty.pl/