I am an avid Reddit reader but this is my first post/question! Couple of months ago I purchased a beautiful brown leather sofa and chair set from a guy on Craigslist. They were his mothers who had passed and when he told me they were purchased nearly 30 years ago my jaw nearly hit the floor. Anyway- he didn’t know what type of products she used to keep the leather in such great shape so I am hoping to find some help here. There are no cracks in the leather yet, but the arms and the piping are beginning to show some wear and dryness (especially now that they are in a home with 2 kids!) so I am looking for recommendations on products to use or stay away from as well as how to best care for them overall. Thank you!!

Hello my fellow sufferers. I just had a couple questions about conservative healing as I feel like I've been getting worse over the last year. I'm not sure when exactly I herniated my L4-L5, because I was having discomfort before I was diagnosed, but it would come and go before. This was after I took a job helping disabled folks find mobility solutions (how ironic), which required a lot of bending, twisting, and sometimes stupidly, lifting people in their wheelchairs to get them positioned correctly to secure them to the floor of minivans. It wasn't until after I did all the heavy lifting on a move to Japan through an airline, a year ago today, that I started noticing tingling in my left foot and some mild dull pain in my left thigh when I sat on my new cheap leather sofa. Shortly after that I was diagnosed with the herniation and put on pain meds with the hope that I would heal eventually by being careful but no PT.
Well I think it was kinda working or I was just distracted by a congenital heart condition I was dealing with (that is fixed now thanks to the brilliant EPs in Japan), but after that something reaggrevated it (last Feb), and it's just been getting worse ever since.
I guess what I'm wondering about is if anyone's found that laying on a sofa is not a good way to relieve this type of injury. Also wondering about toilet seats. We ended up with pretty cheap toilet by Japan's standards, and I want to upgrade the seat. Just wondering if I should look into something padded or not? I tend to feel a bit worse after I sit on our toilet, so I want to make sure I get that right. I also have a 2 year old toddler with tons of energy, and I always try to be careful, but should I not be picking her up at 26lbs? Is it okay to squat down and crawl around with her, or do I really need to be a lame dad for a few months? Like I said, I'm not even sure if the sofa is helping or hurting. Sometimes she likes to jump up on my belly, and I can definitely feel it in my lumbar when she does. I'm starting to think a lot about surgery, because then I would at least have that healing time in a medically approved bed, and feel less guilty about being a lame dad, haha.
Sometimes it's hard to communicate with Japanese doctors, so any tips and advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Black throw blankets are the epitome of elegance and versatility in home décor. Whether draped over a couch, folded at the end of a bed, or casually tossed over an armchair, these sophisticated accessories add a touch of luxury and comfort to any space. From plush textures to minimalist designs, black throw blanketsBlack throw blankets are the epitome of elegance and versatility in home décor. Whether draped over a couch, folded at the end of a bed, or casually tossed over an armchair, these sophisticated accessories add a touch of luxury and comfort to any space. From plush textures to minimalist designs, black throw blankets can seamlessly integrate into various interior styles, making them a must-have for anyone looking to enhance their home décor. Here are some inspiring ideas to help you incorporate these stylish pieces into your living spaces.

1. Modern Minimalist Appeal

For those who appreciate a clean, modern aesthetic, a black throw blanket is an excellent choice. Its simplicity complements minimalist interiors perfectly. Look for throws with subtle textures, such as a knitted or woven design, to add visual interest without overwhelming the space. Pair a black throw with neutral-toned furniture and decor to maintain a sleek and uncluttered look. This approach works exceptionally well in living rooms or bedrooms that feature a monochromatic color scheme, emphasizing the blanket as both a functional and decorative piece.

2. Cozy and Inviting Living Rooms

A black throw blanket can transform your living room into a cozy retreat. Opt for a soft, plush black throw to add warmth and comfort to your seating area. Whether you prefer a faux fur blanket or a thick, knitted option, the rich black hue creates a striking contrast against lighter-colored furniture. To create an inviting ambiance, layer the black throw with other pillows and blankets in various textures and complementary colors. This layering technique not only enhances the comfort level but also adds depth and dimension to your décor.

3. Sophisticated Bedroom Accents

In the bedroom, a black throw blanket can serve as a chic accent piece. Drape it over the foot of the bed to create a focal point and add a touch of elegance to your bedding ensemble. For a luxurious feel, choose a throw with a velvet or satin finish. These materials catch the light beautifully, adding a subtle sheen to your décor. Pair the black throw with crisp white linens or metallic accents to create a sophisticated and balanced look. This combination is perfect for master bedrooms or guest rooms where you want to impress with understated luxury.

4. Stylish Outdoor Spaces

Don't limit the use of black throw blankets to indoor spaces. They can also enhance the look of your outdoor seating areas. Imagine a cool evening spent on your patio or balcony, wrapped in a cozy black throw. Choose blankets made from durable, weather-resistant materials to ensure they withstand outdoor conditions. Black throws can complement a variety of outdoor furniture styles, from modern wicker to rustic wooden pieces. They not only provide warmth but also add a touch of elegance to your outdoor gatherings.

5. Bohemian Chic Vibes

For a bohemian-inspired space, a black throw blanket can add a grounding element to the eclectic mix of colors and patterns typical of this style. Look for black throws with intricate patterns or fringe details to enhance the boho vibe. These blankets can be draped over a colorful couch or layered with other patterned throws and pillows. The contrast between the black throw and the vibrant bohemian elements creates a balanced and visually appealing look. This approach works well in living rooms, bedrooms, or even creative studio spaces.

6. Textural Harmony in Neutral Spaces

Neutral color palettes are a popular choice for many homes due to their calming and versatile nature. In such settings, a black throw blanket can add a layer of depth and sophistication. Choose throws with interesting textures like cable knit, herringbone, or faux fur to introduce a tactile element to your décor. The black throw will stand out against the soft, neutral tones, creating a striking yet harmonious look. This idea is particularly effective in spaces with beige, gray, or cream color schemes, where the black throw serves as a bold accent piece.

7. Statement Pieces in Artistic Interiors

For those who love to make a statement with their décor, a black throw blanket can be a key piece in artistic and avant-garde interiors. Consider throws with unique designs, such as geometric patterns, abstract prints, or embroidered details. These blankets can be draped over statement furniture pieces like an iconic armchair or a modern chaise lounge. The black color acts as a canvas that highlights the intricate designs, making the throw a work of art in itself. This approach is ideal for creative spaces, contemporary living rooms, or home offices where style and creativity are paramount.

8. Timeless Elegance in Traditional Settings

Even in traditional or classic interiors, black throw blankets can play a significant role. Opt for throws made from luxurious materials like cashmere, wool, or silk. These blankets can be elegantly draped over a leather sofa, a vintage armchair, or the foot of a canopy bed. The black color adds a touch of timeless elegance, enhancing the classic charm of your décor. Pair the throw with other traditional elements like antique furniture, ornate rugs, and classic artwork to create a cohesive and refined look.
In conclusion, black throw blankets are incredibly versatile and can adapt to a wide range of interior styles. Whether you're aiming for modern minimalism, cozy comfort, bohemian chic, or timeless elegance, there's a black throw blanket that can elevate your space. Explore different textures, patterns, and materials to find the perfect throw that complements your décor and reflects your personal style.

The living room is often considered the heart of a home—a place where family and friends gather to relax, socialize, and make lasting memories. Creating a cozy and inviting living room involves more than just selecting furniture; it’s about curating an atmosphere that feels warm and welcoming. Here are some tips and ideas to help you transform your living room into a cozy haven.
1. Start with a Large Round Rug
One of the most impactful ways to define your living room space and add a touch of coziness is by incorporating a large round rug. Round rugs for living room are not only visually appealing, but they also soften the angles of furniture and create a focal point in the room. Whether you opt for a plush shag rug for added warmth or a patterned rug to introduce texture, a round carpet for living room can instantly make the space feel more inviting.
2. Choose Comfortable Seating
Comfort is key when it comes to seating in the living room. Invest in a quality sofa with deep cushions and soft upholstery. Add a mix of chairs and ottomans to provide ample seating options. Consider pieces that encourage relaxation, like recliners or chaise lounges. Don’t forget to pile on the pillows and throws for added comfort and a homely feel.
3. Layer with Textures
To create a cozy atmosphere, layer different textures throughout the room. Combine soft textiles like wool blankets, velvet cushions, and cotton throws with natural materials like wood, leather, and stone. This mix not only adds visual interest but also makes the space feel warm and inviting.
4. Use Warm Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood of your living room. Opt for warm, soft lighting instead of harsh, bright lights. Use a combination of table lamps, floor lamps, and wall sconces to create a layered lighting effect. Consider dimmable lights to adjust the ambiance according to the occasion.
5. Incorporate Personal Touches
Make your living room truly yours by incorporating personal touches and decor that reflect your personality. Display family photos, travel souvenirs, and artwork that you love. These elements add character to the room and make it feel uniquely yours.
6. Add a Round Rug for the Living Room
If your living room has multiple seating areas or an open floor plan, consider adding another round rug for the living room to define different zones. For instance, place a round rug under the coffee table to anchor the main seating area and another near a reading nook or secondary seating arrangement. This not only adds visual harmony but also enhances the cozy feel.
7. Embrace a Neutral Color Palette
A neutral color palette can create a serene and welcoming environment. Shades of beige, gray, and white serve as a perfect backdrop for a cozy living room. You can introduce pops of color through accessories like cushions, rugs, and artwork. Neutrals also make it easier to switch up your decor seasonally without clashing with the main color scheme.
8. Introduce Natural Elements
Bringing elements of nature indoors can enhance the coziness of your living room. Houseplants, flowers, and natural wood accents add warmth and life to the space. Plants not only improve air quality but also create a soothing atmosphere.
9. Keep it Clutter-Free
A cozy living room doesn’t mean cluttered. Keep the space tidy and organized to maintain a welcoming ambiance. Use storage solutions like baskets, shelves, and cabinets to keep everyday items out of sight but within reach. A clutter-free environment promotes relaxation and peace of mind.
10. Create a Fireplace Focal Point
If you have a fireplace, make it the focal point of your living room. Arrange seating around the fireplace to encourage conversation and warmth. Even if your fireplace is non-functional, you can still decorate the mantel with candles, lanterns, or decorative items to enhance the cozy vibe.
Incorporating these ideas into your living room design will help you create a space that is not only cozy and inviting but also functional and stylish. Remember, the key to a welcoming living room lies in balancing comfort with personal style, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make the space your own. With the right elements like a large round rug, comfortable seating, and warm lighting, your living room can truly become the heart of your home.

Choosing the right furniture for your lifestyle is essential to creating a home that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. With a plethora of options available, it's important to select pieces that not only complement your home's decor but also suit your daily routines and personal preferences. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when shopping for furniture, including tips on incorporating trendy items like a rattan armchair dining set, rattan furniture Dubai, and a white corner sofa.
Assess Your Space and Needs
Before purchasing any furniture, evaluate the space you have and consider your specific needs. Measure your rooms to ensure that the furniture will fit comfortably without overcrowding the area. Think about how each piece will be used:
- Living Room: This is often the hub of the home, so choose comfortable and durable pieces. A white corner sofa can be a great choice for a modern, minimalist look that offers ample seating.
- Dining Room: If you frequently host dinner parties, a rattan armchair dining set can add a touch of elegance and comfort while being easy to maintain.
- Outdoor Areas: For those who enjoy outdoor living, rattan furniture in Dubai is ideal for creating stylish and functional patio spaces.
Consider Your Lifestyle
Your daily activities and routines play a significant role in determining the right furniture for your home. Here are some lifestyle factors to consider:
- Family-Friendly: If you have children or pets, opt for furniture that is sturdy and easy to clean. Look for sofas with removable, washable covers, and dining tables with durable finishes.
- Entertaining: For those who love to entertain, consider a spacious dining table and plenty of seating options. Rattan armchair dining sets are perfect for adding a chic, comfortable touch to your dining area.
- Work from Home: Create a productive home office with ergonomic furniture. A comfortable chair and a spacious desk are essential for a conducive work environment.
Choose the Right Materials
The material of your furniture should match your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. Here are some popular options:
- Rattan: Perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, rattan furniture is durable, lightweight, and stylish. It’s particularly popular in warmer climates like Dubai, where it adds a natural, airy feel to your decor.
- Leather: Durable and easy to clean, leather is great for high-traffic areas. A white corner sofa in leather can add a sleek, modern touch to your living room.
- Fabric: Available in a wide range of colors and patterns, fabric furniture can be tailored to fit any decor style. Look for high-quality, stain-resistant fabrics for longevity.
Balance Style and Function
While aesthetics are important, functionality should not be compromised. Choose pieces that not only look good but also serve a practical purpose. For example, a white corner sofa can provide ample seating and can be a focal point in your living room, while also offering comfort and style.
Prioritize Comfort
Comfort is key when selecting furniture. Sit on sofas, chairs, and beds before buying to ensure they meet your comfort standards. Look for plush cushions, supportive structures, and high-quality materials.
Reflect Your Personal Style
Your home should be a reflection of your personal taste. Whether you prefer modern, traditional, or eclectic styles, choose furniture that resonates with you. For a touch of natural elegance, rattan furniture is a versatile option that blends well with various decor themes.
Conclusion
Selecting the right furniture for your lifestyle involves careful consideration of your space, needs, and personal preferences. By focusing on comfort, functionality, and style, you can create a home that not only looks great but also enhances your daily life. Whether you're drawn to the natural charm of rattan armchair dining sets, the durability of rattan furniture in Dubai, or the sleek elegance of a white corner sofa, there are endless options to suit your unique lifestyle. Happy decorating!

Hello, the cases of my leather sofa cushions are in very bad conditions and have multiple cracks. I would like to know where I can order new cases of the same color and same size. Where should I go? Should I just ask leather studios nearby?

For example, A Recipe for Style calls for a white sofa to be placed against a white wall.
Graduation Day called for a metal Arhaus chaise. They are all black and they are to be placed in a blue and white gazebo which definitely has a cottage or coastal feel.
None of the tropical leather chais went well with the woodwork in Putting Down Roots.
There have been others but I didn't take note of them. It's like no thought is put into the design requirements. Anyone else notice this?

I am looking at saloons, sports and pickups. What’s the most comfortable, safe, reliable and quiet car, it needs to be AWD, automatic, 4 seats + a boot that can fit a small sofa at most and something that can be a luxury vehicle but is cheap to run, hopefully it has parking sensor, leather seats and so on, I am in England but am looking to import

Hello, I need some advice if possible please.
In the last 6 months I have had 8 sofas from Argos.
All leather, the issues have been colour fading. I buy tan coloured sofas. When they arrive and you sit on them, within a day or so the tan colour starts to fade off leaving the dark brown original colour showing. You end up with a part tan and part dark brown sofa within a week. It looks terrible.
One of the replacement sofas (a different model) caused a severe skin reaction on the parts of my body (upper arms and hands) that touched the sofas. The rest of the sofas had a throw on them. Had to visit the doctor twice regarding this for treatment, and it looks like it is sofa dermatitis that caused it. It was very painful and itchy, and looked awful. Once I stopped using the sofas the issue went away within a couple of weeks. After this time I sat on them again for a few days to check and it came straight back so pretty sure it was the sofas. I was prescribed a steroid cream and a moisturising cream to sort this out.
Due to the constant delivery/return of the sofas I had to take 5 or 6 days off work using my holiday days.
My current sofa replacement arrived last week, once again the colour has come off, and there is also a product number stamped onto the arm rest, it isn't an ink stamp, it is actual holes so they must use some sort of metal numbers which are stabbed into the products. Quality control doesn't seem to work wherever these sofas are made.
I will not be having replacement Argos sofas again now. I only kept accepting replacements as I need sofas and anywhere else that delivers usually have a long delay. So once these go back I will be sofaless for quite some time I imagine.
Anyway I have been speaking to the executive customer service team I believe and told them I am really not happy about the quality of all the sofas, the painful skin issues, the days off work that I had to take, and they are saying that once all the sofas are back with them (I have the sofas that caused the nasty rashes here, and the newest one here still) they will be happy to review a gesture of goodwill. They haven't actually made any comment about the suspected sofa dermatitis, or the quality of the actual sofas I received.
I don't think this is good enough. They could offer a £20 Argos voucher as a gesture of goodwill, and that doesn't cover an hour of work for the days I had to sit at home waiting for them to delivecollect.
I was wondering if there is anything I should expect from them as this has been a giant and painful pain in the a$$.
Thank you.
Based in England

We bought a reclining leather sofa set in 2020 for ~$4K from Costco. It was an Abbyson Living brand. By late 2022/early 2023 we found that the color on the seats and arm-rests was coming off. It was bad. I didn't expect this from such a sofa. We tried to contact Costco customer service via email, but never got a response. After a while we gave up.
I know it is too late, but what should we have done?

Species: Cat Age: 11 months Sex/Neuter status: Sterilized female Breed: British longhair Body weight: 5,2 kg / 11,46 lbs History: Got her from a reputable breeder, has pedigree certificate, has never been ill before, has all vaccinations, is indoor only Clinical signs: Unusual for her loss of appetite, weird behavior around food, new behaviors such as snoring, licking walls and furniture Duration: Around 1 month Your general location: Central Europe
Hi! I decided to post here, because I need advice on what to do. My kitty is acting weird and I don’t know which vet to listen to.
Forgive me for the lengthy post, but I wanted to include everything. It’s my first pet and a dear friend, so I want the best for her.
Quick background. When I got my kitty, she was 3 months old. She immediately settled in her new home, she was friendly, social and absolutely obsessed with food. She was so obsessed with food that I was worried she was ill in some way. I took her to the vet and he just said that I should be happy she is not a picky eater. I told him that she could jump on the kitchen counter and tear a plastic bag with bread(!) to just get a few bites of it. Or when I was cooking and a piece of cabbage fell on the floor, she ate half of it. Whenever I ate a meal, she absolutely had to taste it no matter what. Vet still said I shouldn’t worry, so I took his advice. She weighed 1,7 kg as a 3 month old kitten.
Fast forward to now - she is soon to be 1 year old and weighs 5,2 kg. Around a month ago, maybe a bit longer, she started to eat much slower. She stopped finishing her meals at once. She was leaving in the middle of eating and later was coming back to finish it. I didn’t think it was weird, I thought she is just maturing and not as hungry anymore. She still wanted to eat some of my food and never refused cat treats. She was eating around 3 pouches of wet food a day and some treats. I never switched the brand of main food, she always loved it and it’s high quality. She certainly didn’t get bored of it, because there were different flavors. I also sometimes gave her treats/soups from different brands and she always ate them all. She was never picky.
Later on I started noticing her licking furniture, specifically leather sofas and chairs. I would always tell her to stop, but she didn’t care. Around 2 weeks ago she started to lick walls. They are clean, so I don’t know why she is doing it. She bites cardboard boxes a lot too. She also snores at night sometimes. I don’t know if these things are usual for cats, so forgive me if I am mentioning unnecessary stuff.
The most worrying thing is that for around the last 2.5 weeks she almost completely lost her appetite. I tried giving her different kinds of food and I started to cook for her, but still she wasn’t interested. She would sniff and go away, maybe take a bite or two. She ate her hairball paste only. I could leave the paste on her wet food and usually she ate only the paste. She was still pooping though, but much less. What I found weirdest is that she asked for food frequently and purred loudly when she was offered it, but just didn’t eat it. She could wake me up at 3 am for food, sniff it and leave.
Around a week ago I took her to the vet mentioned earlier. We visited him 2 times now. I’ll sum up the visits:
First visit: She had USG done that showed some black areas in her intestines. Vet said it might be fur and/or gas. She had an X-ray laying on the side. It showed something in her intestines, pretty close to stomach. Vet said that it’s most likely fur with poop that is stuck. She got a full blood test done. She got IV drip. I got the following medication to give her at home: simethicone, lactulose and seeds(?) to mix with water and add to food. She showed some improvement at home, ate more, I started noticing a bit of fur in her poop, but I’m not sure if it was a new thing. I didn’t examine her poop THAT closely before. Blood results came out perfect and pancreas infection (that was also suspected) was ruled out.
She started to lose her appetite again though, so I booked another visit.
Second visit: X-ray showed that this ‘poop mass?’ or whatever she currently had in intestines during that day was almost at the exit. She had IV drip again. I only got lactulose this time to give for the next 2 days. I was told that everything is fine now.
Improvement didn’t last long again, so we visited today (29.05) a different clinic to see a new vet. He did USG and said he doesn’t see anything wrong at this moment. He checked her ears, eyes, and saw the blood test results. I also brought a poop sample to have it tested at this clinic for worms. She was checked for worms 3 months ago, but I wanted to do it again just in case. The vet said that he needs to examine my kitty’s mouth and throat under anesthetic, because he is suspecting that she might have a polyp there. He said he can do it this Friday. He said it's not likely that fur was the problem, because I mentioned that during her whole life she passed a hairball only once and it happened like 7 months ago.
And now I need your advice. Should I take my kitty there on Friday? Can she really have a polyp that a previous vet didn’t notice?? I am so utterly confused. I don’t know which vet is right and what to do. I would prefer to spare my cat a 3 hour long procedure, but I find it hard to trust the previous vet that everything is fine. The second vet said it is indeed weird for a cat that has always been so gluttonous to just lose her appetite like that.
I am once again sorry for the length of this post. Thank you for taking your time to read it and I’ll be grateful for any advice.

[Part 1]
[Part 2]
[Part 3] <- You are here.
The first thing that pierced the black veil of unconsciousness was the sharp, unyielding pain in my side, followed by the distant ringing of a phone at the night shift nurse's desk. I turned my head slowly, each movement sending waves of agony through my body, and saw a doctor reading from a manila folder.
“Oh, you’re awake,” he said with surprise, noticing my movement. “I was wondering when you’d come around. That knife did quite a bit of damage.” His nametag read “Dr. Wilcox”.
I tried to shift myself, only to feel the restraints binding my wrists to the bed. A small panic welled within me as I tugged against them, the leather straps digging into my skin.
“Quite a lot of alkaloids in your blood and urine as well,” the doctor continued in a detached tone. “Some type of poison. I’m surprised your heart didn’t give out. The surgeon's decision to administer anti-arrhythmics might have saved your life.”
I glanced around the room, trying to get my bearings. The faint glow of the moon filtered through the large window, casting shadows over the murky waters of the Puget Sound.
“Why am I in restraints?” I asked.
“That’s for your own protection,” he smiled. “Didn’t want you wriggling away with all those stitches. Almost two hundred in total, most on the inside. Just barely missed the abdominal aorta. That one isn’t so easy to stitch up.”
“Well, can you take them off? They’re hurting...” I asked with an irritated tone.
“No, I don’t think so.” He shook his head. “Besides, now that you’re awake, we need to move you to a more accelerated treatment program.”
With that, he pressed a button on the wall, and two orderlies entered the room, wheeling a heavy-duty medical chair. “Strap him in,” the doctor ordered.
The orderlies moved quickly, roughly unstrapping my wrists from the bed and yanking me up.
I winced as pain shot through my side, but they ignored my protests. As they lifted me, I felt a sharp, tearing sensation. I looked down and saw a small pool of blood seeping through the bandages.
“Wait! Wait! I think one of my stitches ripped,” I said, my voice trembling from pain.
The doctor glanced at the blood, his expression unchanged. “It’s nothing to worry about,” he said dismissively before turning to one of the orderlies. “Take him to the basement. Oh, and be sure to use the service elevator.”
“Wait, what? Why?” I said, turning my head desperately. “Why are you taking me to the basement?”
“Do not worry, Mr. Morrison,” he said as he approached with a syringe in hand. Grabbing my arm, he quickly inserted the needle and injected me with a milky white substance, “This will help you relax.”
Almost immediately, a heavy drowsiness began to wash over me. The sounds around me started to blur, my limbs felt heavy, and my eyelids drooped despite my efforts to stay alert.
The lights of the ceiling passed over me in a blur, like headlights from cars on a rainy night. The walls appeared in sickly shades of green and yellow, the scent of cheap antiseptic failing to mask the odors of death and decay. Sweat pooled on my skin as my neck rolled uncontrollably, my eyes struggling to focus on any object whirling by.
At the end of the hallway, I saw the doors to the service elevator, a double-wide metal contraption mottled with splotches of rust. It approached slower than our pace should have allowed, and I distinctly remember the sensation as if I were being fed into the mouth of some great beast.
As we accelerated down the hallway, a nurse appeared from around the corner, standing directly in our path. The wheelchair screeched to a halt, and I would have fallen to the floor if not for the straps anchoring me down.
Their conversation was mostly muffled as I tried to steady my head enough to look directly at the woman arguing with the orderlies.
After a tense moment, the two orderlies reluctantly walked away as she took control of the chair and turned down another hallway, away from the elevator. Leaning down, her breath cool on my ear, she whispered, “We are in more danger than you could possibly imagine.”
We abruptly stopped again, before she wheeled me backwards into a small room. “We need to get you changed.” she said as she grabbed some scrubs from off a shelf and began undressing me. “Can you stand?”
I felt drool dribble down my chin as I asked who she was. “Kelly, from GSNN. I don’t have time to explain right now, I just need to know if you can walk.”
I tried to say no, but only managed to blow a spit bubble out of my foaming mouth. “Shit, okay.” she replied as she finished dressing me. “Put your arm over me” she said as she hoisted me out of my chair.
We reentered the hallway, thankfully empty, the silence amplifying my ragged breaths. Each step was a monumental effort, my focus narrowing to the simple act of placing one foot in front of the other as Kelly supported my weight.
Somehow, we reached the elevators. Kelly pressed the button, her eyes darting around nervously. Footsteps echoed up the hallway, growing louder. She quickly turned me to face away just as two doctors strolled past, too engrossed in argument for them to notice us.
The elevator dinged and opened. Two male nurses inside stopped mid-conversation to stare at us. Kelly gave a meek smile as she half-carried, half-dragged me into the elevator, leaning me against the corner.
The nurses continued to stare, suspicion flickering in their eyes. Kelly managed a small, strained smile. “Tried to pull a 48-hour shift. I told him he couldn’t do it.”
The nurses chuckled, one patting my shoulder. “You doing alright, buddy?”
I summoned every ounce of strength to speak clearly. “Never better. Can’t you tell?”
They laughed again. “You’ll be alright. Hang in there.”
The elevator doors opened to the chaotic lobby, the noise hitting us like a wave. The tension in my chest eased slightly as we were momentarily swallowed by the crowd. Some clearly homeless individuals huddled in corners, seeking warmth from the cold outside. A woman stood nearby, arguing loudly with a doctor, her voice sharp and desperate. Families milled about, their faces etched with worry, while children with broken arms and bandaged heads clung to their parents.
Kelly hoisted me up again, the strain evident in her muscles. She guided me to a chair amidst the chaos, her eyes darting around, taking in every detail. At the center of the lobby sat a security desk with two guards, their eyes intermittently scanning the area, looking bored and indifferent to the surrounding commotion.
Kelly quickly made a call on her cellphone. “Front entrance, now.” As she spoke, her gaze never stopped moving, constantly on alert for any sign of danger. The lobby's frenetic energy surrounded us, but for a moment, we were just another part of the hospital's endless flow of people.
"Hey, you two! We need all hands in the ER, stat," a nurse called out, rushing past with a face flushed with urgency. "We've got two GSWs coming in and we're short-handed. Trauma bays are filling up fast."
"Sorry, can't," Kelly shot back.
The nurse stopped abruptly, her eyes narrowing. "What do you mean ‘can't’?”
Kelly hesitated for a moment. "Dr. Wilcox," she said. "Told us to stay on standby for a special case."
The nurse frowned, "Dr. Wilcox? He’s in the recovery room. You know we need everyone in the ER right now.” She paused, “Where are your ID badges?"
Kelly's hand instinctively moved to her chest, "We must have left them in the break room. We were in a rush."
The nurse's gaze became more intense. "Both of you forgot them in the break room? Why were they even off in the first place? Wait here," she said, turning towards the security desk.
“Shit! Shit! Get up!” Kelly hissed into my ear as she put my arm back over her shoulder, bee lining towards the entrance. I looked over to see the nurse talking to the security guard at the desk and pointing directly at us.
The doors opened as a black CRV pulled up. Kelly threw me into the back and ran around to the passengers seat, slamming the door. The security guards rushed in front of our car, drawing their weapons and assuming a firing stance.
The wheels screeched on the pavement as the driver gunned it, hitting one of the guards and sending him tumbling onto the sidewalk.
“You okay, little man?” I heard a familiar voice say. I looked up to see Tim driving.
“He’ll be alright… I think.” Kelly replied.
“After you didn’t show, I knew something was wrong,” Kelly said softly, taking a sip of her coffee. “Thankfully, your brother-in-law reached out. I had some trouble finding you, especially since you were checked into the hospital as a John Doe.”
I still felt groggy, but the coffee helped. I sat on my worn, comfortable sofa, while Kelly perched at the dining table and Tim stood gazing out the window.
“The woman at the shop helped us find you. She broke pretty easily,” Tim said without turning around. “Didn’t know anything about Chloe, though.”
“Did you figure out why they were so angry with us?” I asked.
“She messed up. The event was members only. She let you slip in through the shop,” He replied.
I absorbed the information, then turned to Kelly. “So, why are you helping us? Thank you for saving my life, but what’s in it for you?”
“I’ve been working on this story for almost two years,” Kelly said. “Every time I tried to publish, it got kicked back. Editor said it wasn’t ‘newsworthy.’ I knew if I had proof of an abduction, I’d have my story.”
“So you know everything about them?” I asked, feeling a flicker of excitement.
“Pretty much,” Kelly replied. “For most of their history, they were eccentric, but harmless. That changed a decade ago when Marcus Voss took over.”
Kelly paused, sipping her coffee. She took a deep breath and continued.
“Voss was a prominent figure in the Order of the Nine Angles, or ONA. These guys are the real deal when it comes to depravity. Murder, torture, ritualistic abuse—anything you can think of, they’ve done it. The hysteria from the 1980s satanic panic might have been overblown, but with Voss and the ONA, those fears were justified.”
“Voss isn't known for making friends. He alienated almost every other senior member until he was eventually exiled. That’s when he found the Ordo Arcana Aeternum, or OAA for short. That's our guys. Voss climbed the ranks of the OAA quickly. When the former leader, the Magister Magnus, vanished, Voss seized control. He replaced senior members with his loyalists and sycophants while using manipulative recruitment tactics—targeting the vulnerable, isolating them from their families, and love bombing. Last I checked, he got their numbers up in the hundreds.”
Kelly’s expression darkened. “But that was just the beginning. Voss then turned to drugs, both using and selling. He transformed the group from eccentric spiritual seekers into a mix of addicts and hardened criminals. Under his leadership, they became dangerous; an army of brainwashed followers willing to do anything for him.”
Tim finally spoke up. “Thanks for the history lesson, but how does this help us find Chloe?”
Kelly sat quietly for a moment. “I think they’re escalating toward something. Something big.”
“We need to go to the cops,” I said, feeling a surge of urgency. “With everything you’ve told us, they have to take this seriously.”
Kelly shook her head, her expression grim. “It’s not that simple, George. The police won’t be of much help here.”
“Why not?” I demanded. “They need to know what’s going on.”
Kelly sighed, setting her coffee cup down. “Believe me, I’ve tried. They see this as just another conspiracy theory. The OAA has deep pockets and connections in high places. They’ve paid off or intimidated anyone who gets too close. To them, it’s just another fringe group, not worth their time. They won’t act unless they have undeniable proof, and by then, it might be too late.”
Tim nodded. “She’s right. These guys play dirty. If we go to the cops now, they’ll just tip off Voss."
I felt a sinking feeling in my stomach. “Alright. So what’s our next move?”
“Next move is to find Voss. No more bullshit,” Tim said. “I’ve already missed my parole meeting, so I really don’t have much time. Kelly has his address.”
“So what, we all just break into his place and interrogate him?” I asked.
“Oh, no. I’m not coming,” Kelly objected. “This is all on you. I’m pretty much an accessory already, but I’m not going to get involved in breaking and entering.”
“Looks like it's just us, little man,” Tim said, punching my shoulder. “Get some sleep. We’ve got a big night.”

Creating a luxurious home doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. With some smart shopping and a keen eye for quality, you can find affordable alternatives to high-end furniture that offer both style and comfort. Whether you're redecorating your living room or adding a touch of elegance to your bedroom, this guide will help you achieve a luxurious look without breaking the bank. We'll explore options like rattan armchairs, rattan side tables, and how to find stylish armchairs online.
1. Embrace Rattan Furniture
Rattan furniture has made a significant comeback in recent years, celebrated for its natural beauty, durability, and versatility. Incorporating rattan pieces can instantly elevate the look of your home with a touch of tropical elegance.
Rattan Armchair
A rattan armchair is a perfect blend of luxury and affordability. Its intricate weaving and organic texture add sophistication to any room. Look for rattan armchairs that feature comfortable cushions and sturdy frames. These pieces are not only stylish but also lightweight and easy to move around, making them a practical choice for any space.
Rattan Side Tables
Rattan side tables can be a chic and functional addition to your home. They work well in living rooms, bedrooms, or even as accent pieces in hallways. When shopping for rattan side tables, look for designs with glass tops for a more polished and upscale appearance. These tables provide a perfect spot for a lamp, books, or decorative items while adding a touch of natural elegance.
2. Shop Smart Online
Shopping for armchairs online can open up a world of affordable luxury. Many online retailers offer high-quality furniture at a fraction of the cost of traditional stores. Here are some tips to help you find the best deals:
- Compare Prices: Use comparison tools to find the best prices for armchairs online. Look for sales, discounts, and free shipping offers.
- Read Reviews: Customer reviews can provide insights into the quality and comfort of the furniture. Pay attention to feedback about durability and assembly.
- Check Dimensions: Ensure the armchair fits your space by carefully checking the dimensions provided in the product description.
- Look for High-End Lookalikes: Many online retailers offer pieces that mimic the design of high-end furniture. Search for armchairs with elegant lines, quality fabrics, and refined details.
3. Mix High and Low
Achieving a luxurious look doesn't mean every piece of furniture has to be expensive. Mixing high-end items with budget-friendly pieces can create a balanced and sophisticated aesthetic. Here are some ideas:
- High-End Accents: Invest in a few high-end accent pieces like a statement mirror, a designer rug, or a beautiful chandelier. These items can elevate the overall look of your space.
- Budget-Friendly Staples: Choose affordable staples like sofas, armchairs, and coffee tables that are well-made and stylish. Pair them with your high-end accents for a cohesive look.
- DIY Touches: Add a personal touch by incorporating DIY elements. For example, reupholster an old chair with luxurious fabric or paint a thrifted table in a chic color.
4. Focus on Quality Materials
When shopping for affordable luxury furniture, prioritize pieces made from quality materials. Solid wood, genuine leather, and natural fibers like rattan and linen can add a high-end feel to your home. Avoid furniture made from cheap materials that may wear out quickly and detract from the overall look of your space.
5. Customize for a Unique Look
Customizing budget-friendly furniture can give it a high-end appearance. Here are some ideas:
- Swap Hardware: Replace basic knobs and handles on dressers and cabinets with elegant, high-quality hardware.
- Reupholster: Update the fabric on chairs and sofas to something more luxurious. Look for rich textures and patterns that add depth and interest.
- Paint and Stain: Give wooden furniture a new look with a fresh coat of paint or stain. Opt for colors and finishes that mimic high-end pieces.
Conclusion
Creating a luxurious home on a budget is entirely possible with thoughtful choices and a bit of creativity. By incorporating rattan armchairs and rattan side tables, shopping smartly for armchairs online, and mixing high and low-end pieces, you can achieve a sophisticated and stylish space without overspending. Focus on quality materials, add personal touches, and enjoy the process of transforming your home into a luxurious haven.

I need to vent somewhere so I don't blow a gasket. If you want to read some tea, get your kettle on, coz this is a long one ☕ 🫖
Known a troubled young lady for about 10yrs now, and when I met her back then she was mostly nice but would flip the crazy switch every so often. The first time I saw her flip the crazy switch it was because a mutual friend of ours dropped out of seeing a spice girls reunion concert, due to a rule at the wildlife hospital we all attended. The rule stated that students and staff were not to fraternise outside of shifts at the hospital. Troubled friend had just finished her diploma and gotten a seasonal job there as a baby animal & baby bird feeder, and Mutual friend didn't want to get in trouble herself, due to still being a student. Troubled friend was absolutely awful & gave Mutual friend (who is a big softie) loads of verbal abuse to her face, her phone, her socials, and slated her to anyone who would listen. This is the routine she sticks to every time she disagrees with a person, to this day. Anywho, over the years I've learned that Troubled friend has either bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, or something similar, and due to this I've excused her all the times she's blown up at people, including myself in the past. She has also had an on/off bf who is a heroin addict. And while Troubled friend would work her arse off, he'd bleed her dry spending her wages, & stealing money and belongings, driving her car uninsured and getting it impounded by the police, physical violence and so on. Nice. Eventually this all got too much and she went from casual coke use, to full blown addict of hard drugs. Lost her job, got kicked out of her home, cut off from family & estranged from friends. I've tried helping her, telling her where to turn, suggesting perhaps she break free from her relationship to get herself housed and sorted. I even drove over to see her for the first time in about 5 years, and had planned to take her to a dog-friendly day centre for the homeless, to help her get all the forms filled in she'd need to get housing and clothed, get her dog checked by street vet; whatever she needed. She kept me waiting a couple hours coz she apparently needed a nap..? and then she didn't even come out to see me in person; instead she sent two poor, unfortunate souls (one definitely ravaged by something like crack) hanging on to a terrified dog's lead.. I should have driven off instead of helping, but I was so thrown by the whole spectacle unfolding before my eyes that I took the dog home with me. The dog was an absolute nightmare, and that's saying something. Everyone in my house was stressed to breaking point, my cats were terrified, & I had to return the dog after just a week. The damage to my sofa is absolutely bonkers. When I turned up in her town to return her dog she bafflingly had her phone off, despite her agreeing to meet me on a day specified by herself.. I waited hours & still couldn't get through to her. So I tried to figure out where her nearest vets was, bearing in mind she never gave me an address for wherever she was staying; just the location of a petrol station. I took the dog to Pets at home as they have a vets upstairs and said I'd found this dog & could she have a microchip check? Yes she did ✅ But the weirdest thing was, the microchip was blank! Now, Troubled friend had spent a couple of years working in a few different veterinary practices as a night time assistant, so I was certain the microchip would have up to date contact info, due to her knowing firsthand how important that info is! The vets followed protocol, took the dog outback, and I guess called the dog warden at the end of the day. I had to get back home to my family and my pets, there was zero point waiting for Troubled friend to get in touch as she had already ghosted me for 3 days straight when her pals had foisted her dog on me.
When she eventually turned on her phone she went ballistic, insisting that I give her the dog wardens number (despite the info being just a Google search away) and then trying to pressure me into paying her fine, which was ridiculous considering I'd paid £60 petrol, paid for dog food, a parking fine I'd receives after her telling me to park at a petrol station & having kept me waiting so long, not to mention the dog had shredded my leather sofa, and I'd paid out for her dog to go with my own dog for walks 4 days a week whilst I'm out at work. Anywho, she got her dog back then ran off to another town, when she was supposed to be giving evidence at a murder trial! The police had a warrant out for her arrest as it was super important she attended court to get justice for Vicky Greenwood, a prostitute who was murdered. Troubled friend failed to show up at court or hand herself in to a police station - despite the murder victim having been a personal friend of hers! Then Troubled friend decided to leave her dog with someone who had already been allowing Troubled friend to stay with her in this other town (plus Troubled friend's bf, along with her badly behaved dog) and she then ghosted this young lass for days as well. Young lass tried asking her to collect her dog, Troubled friend said she'd turn up, & failed to show up, twice. Young lass tried to get the RSPCA to come get the dog, and they wouldn't show up. So she advertised the dog somewhere for a little money, and a guy came and bought the dog. Later on the dog ends up tied to a railing. The dog warden of the second town is called and collects the dog. Meanwhile Troubled friend has had me blocked from her FB, but then decides to unblock me for some reason & I happen to check in on her and see she's lost her dog and doesn't know where to start looking. So I figure the dog would end up with a dog warden at some point (honestly cannot emphasize how badly behaved this dog is, it literally only behaves for Troubled friend) and I join a FB community group for the second tow, which Troubled friend had been staying in... low and behold I am able to discern that the dog was picked up by the dog warden there, around 8 days prior to my post asking for advice. I tell Troubled friend the information & she calls the warden - remarkably he not only still has the dog, but he's put the dog in a "sensory kennel" with small garden and paddling pool, and even more astonishing; he offers to drive the dog back to Troubled friend's hometown and waive the fee! She gets her dog back, and since then she's been sending threats & disgustingly horrid messages to the Young lass, threatening to come to the second town and unalive the Young lass and other things.
How do I know this, you may wonder? Well, Young lass, and her very feisty mum have been messaging me for the past few days trying to get help or recognition for their woes, I don't even know tbh. Now Troubled friend knows I've been messaging back and fourth with these people and she is doubling down, trying to justify her awful behaviour. It's all bullshit. Be nice to people or just don't bother speaking & interacting with them, it's really not that difficult. I'm over it now. Tried to help, got nothing but grief. Don't do drugs, kids. Thank you to anyone for reading, you deserve a biscuit with that tea ☕

We tried this sofa in the store and it's extremely comfortable and we like the look as well.
We noticed that the showroom sofa backrest was loose and couldn't go down fully anymore, likely from continuous raising/closing of the backrest. Has anyone owned or used the sofa over a long period of time? Wondering how the quality, backrest, and leather holds up over months / years.

This is an updated version of a post I made a few years back and have since deleted.
Short version:
I’ve found that the 1990-1994 Lexus LS400 front seat bottom cushion does not place any pressure on my perineum; it works well in the car itself when some extra foam is added between the seat’s springs and the cushion itself, but more importantly, provides the same benefit when removed from the car and used as a supplementary cushion for other cars, computer chairs, and some sofas. It has provided enough benefit in my day-to-day life that I was able to stop taking pain medication a couple years ago.
Long version:
My pelvic floor situation is as such: male, 30s, 6', 145lbs, not much in the way of butt fat. Started having severe and persistent pain in my perineum in 2019 that had a consistent baseline and was exacerbated when sitting with proper posture on any soft surface (car seat, office chair, sofa, etc.), with occasional muscle spasms that ran through my pelvic floor and down the sides of my thighs - notably when the pain was at its worst. Went through a GP > urologist > neurologist > general surgeon. Had an MRI of lower back and pelvis done separately that eventually confirmed nerve entrapment in two locations. Got an epidural for the lower back one that didn't alleviate the issue; no recourse was available for the other. After a year and a half of issues, my GP and urologist eventually prescribed me Gabapentin 300mg x1 nightly and Amitriptyline 25mg x1 nightly respectively; the former kept the spasms at bay, and the latter alleviated some of the pain.
At the time, I was driving a 2019 Hyundai Accent, which made the issue extreme - the cushion was flat but had enough give that I was consistently sitting directly on my perineum rather than the very small amount of fat on my butt. The Aylio Donut works for short periods when sitting on hard surfaces, e.g. at a restaurant, but it’s neither soft enough nor long enough to work in my car or for long periods. It wasn't until I sold the car and got a 2006 Hyundai Sonata that I found something that worked; this gen (2006-2010) Sonata's OEM seat cushion has a recessed center seam that goes front to back down the middle of the cushion. The cushion itself is too short to support my thighs, but after adding a thigh extender, I found the cushion to be close to 100% neutral; I could sit normally again, proper posture and all, with zero pressure on my perineum.
After gas prices started rising, I got a 2007 Toyota Prius that has seats nearly as uncomfortable as those on the Accent I had. I thought about the cushion from the Sonata and went to a Pull-a-Part, pulled a bottom cushion off of a Sonata driver's seat from the same gen, got a donor seat from a Prius, took off the bottom cushion from the Prius donor seat, then cobbled together something. It worked for a couple of months, but required constant adjusting.
Eventually, I started trying out other car seats at the junkyard, and eventually found a 1993 Lexus LS400. The leather was dry and hard, but I could tell the way the recessed center seam worked that it could be even better than the Sonata. So I took the one cushion I could get that day, and eventually found a couple other first-gen LS400s that had leather that was in better condition and much softer.
As far as using the LS400 cushion as a supplement… it’s been perfect. The foam that makes up the bottom cushion is thin, but dense, which means it doesn’t add much height to any seat or chair its placed on, and allows whatever support that seat already provides to still come through (be it firm, soft, etc.) The foam is also cut beneath where the center seam is on the leather, so it’s a true recess and not just aesthetic. In my experience, the cushion sometimes requires a little extra foam placed beneath it, such as in my Prius where the OEM seat is a bit too firm in general. But in my partner’s Tucson, whose seats are already a fair bit soft, the cushion works with no added foam, although I have to clip it down at the front in order for it to not put too much pressure on my thighs. In any vehicle I put it in, I pull the tail of the cushion through the opening between the bottom of the backrest and the back of the bottom cushion to keep it in place.
This cushion, and the Sonata I drove briefly prior, eventually relieved so much of my pain that I was able to coordinate with my urologist to wind down to just 10mg of Amitriptyline, then eventually none, and have been off of it for a couple years now. I also came off the Gabapentin after consulting my GP around the same time to see if the muscle spasms ever returned, and they did not. I still have a low baseline of pain every day, but it’s tolerable now, and has not once escalated to the point it was prior to the use of these cushions.
Over the last couple of years, I’ve gone back to Pull-a-Part regularly to sit in different cars to see which OEM cushions feel comfortable in what cars. My findings, as well as successful use cases with the LS400 cushion, can be found here for anyone interested.
I know everyone is different and that this may not be the solution for everyone, but I wanted to share this after going through all that pain.