#72 inch vanity

[rolandsbeanies]

Bathroom - Transitional Bathroom Bathroom: A double-sink bathroom with blue cabinets, beige walls, quartz countertops, white countertops, and a freestanding vanity in a medium-sized transitional kids' bathroom idea.

[iamnotawomanartist]

Transitional Bathroom Charlotte Bathroom: A double-sink bathroom with blue cabinets, beige walls, quartz countertops, white countertops, and a freestanding vanity in a medium-sized transitional kids' bathroom idea.

[bathify]

Elevating Domestic Elegance with a 72-Inch Natural Wood Vanity

The conceptualization of domestic spaces, particularly bathrooms, as sanctuaries of personal solace and aesthetic pleasure underscores the integration of design and utility. Among the plethora of elements conducive to crafting such an environment, the incorporation of a 72-inch natural wood vanity emerges as a distinctively elegant and versatile strategy. This discourse explores the transformative capability of such a vanity, providing a comprehensive guide to styling one's home to foster an ambiance characterized by sophistication and natural warmth.

Aesthetic and Functional Merits of the 72-Inch Natural Wood Vanity

Central to the architectural integrity of a refined bathroom is the vanity, serving not merely as a pragmatic fixture for storage and personal grooming but as a pivotal design element that delineates the room's aesthetic ethos. A 72-inch natural wood vanity, with its considerable dimensions and inherent natural charm, introduces an element of the natural world into the domestic environment, engendering a space of tranquility and welcome. Its generous proportions are particularly conducive to communal settings, facilitating an efficient and harmonious morning regimen.

Design Integration and Spatial Harmony

In the endeavor to seamlessly integrate a 72-inch natural wood vanity into the bathroom's decor, it is imperative to consider the overarching aesthetic vision. Such a vanity is amenable to a broad spectrum of styles, from the bucolic allure of rustic farmhouse to the clean lines of modern minimalism. To achieve a harmonious design, it is advisable to select hardware and fixtures that resonate with the natural tone and texture of the wood. Options such as brushed nickel or matte black can impart a modern flair, while selections in antique brass or bronze can evoke a more classical ambiance.

Optimization of Functionality and Aesthetic Appeal

The selection of a 72-inch natural wood vanity is not merely an aesthetic choice but a functional enhancement to the domestic space. To fully actualize its utility:

Customization Potential: Many vanities offer customizable features, enabling the selection of countertops, sink designs, and storage solutions that align with individual preferences. Materials such as quartz or granite for countertops offer both durability and aesthetic grace, while sink choices can reflect personal style preferences.

Lighting Considerations: Optimal lighting is essential, particularly in the vicinity of the vanity. Installation of sconces or overhead lighting that provides illumination without shadowing can augment the wood's natural beauty and facilitate grooming activities.

Intelligent Organization: The expansive storage capacity of the vanity should be leveraged to minimize clutter. Implementing drawer organizers, pull-out baskets, and compartments for toiletries can maintain a visually serene and organized space.

The Ethical Dimension of Choice

Opting for a 72-inch natural wood vanity extends beyond stylistic preference into the realm of environmental ethics. Many such vanities are constructed from wood sourced through sustainable practices, representing a commitment to eco-friendly design without compromising on aesthetic quality. This choice imbues the domestic setting with a deeper sense of fulfillment, knowing it supports responsible environmental stewardship.

Conclusion: A Fusion of Style, Function, and Ethical Consideration

The decision to incorporate a 72-inch natural wood vanity into one's bathroom transcends simple aesthetic enhancement, embodying a holistic approach that intertwines style with functionality. This quintessential piece anchors the space, instilling a sense of serene sophistication through its natural aesthetics and practical utility. Whether undertaken as part of a comprehensive renovation or a targeted refresh, a 72-inch natural wood vanity stands as a timeless investment that enriches the home's ambiance while reflecting a commitment to sustainable living practices. Embracing this element transforms the bathroom from a mere functional space to a haven of retreat within the domestic sphere.

[satanic10]

Modern Bathroom in New York

porcelain and large minimalist beige tiles in the master bathroom Picture of double-sink alcove shower with porcelain tile, gray floor, flat-panel cabinets, brown cabinets, beige walls, wall-mount sink, solid surface countertops, hinged shower door, white countertops, niche, and floating vanity.

[mikellis]

Loft-Style - Modern Bedroom Inspiration for a mid-sized modern loft-style light wood floor, beige floor and coffered ceiling bedroom remodel with white walls

[shirtlessfrank]

Modern Bedroom in New York Example of a mid-sized minimalist loft-style light wood floor, beige floor and coffered ceiling bedroom design with white walls

[daintylovers]

Champagne Coast

1.4 The Debut

Seth Cohen x OC (Hailey Atwood)

"You're going to need bedding, and maybe we can hang some lace curtains! Oh, and of course, you'll need a vanity. You probably don't want to share a bathroom with Seth, especially once school comes around." Mrs. Cohen said.

Seth peeked around the corner of the guest room- my room now, "Don't forget a 72-inch flatscreen and a second closet for all the clothes she's gonna accumulate."

"Very funny Seth, thank you." His mom said, rolling her eyes at her son's non-stop commentary.

Chiming in, I said, "Seth, you forgot about the huge sign that will be outside my door that says you aren't allowed in here."

"That's a great idea, Hailey," Mrs. Cohen laughed. I felt on top of the world at that show of likeness.

"Wait, Mom, what will she do about cotilion?" Cotilion?

****

Cotillion- an event that everyone has heard of, besides me. Where girls get together and are auctioned off in front of their loved ones. How sweet...

It's not that I detested the idea, it could be fun given the right circumstances. But I only know Ryan, Seth, and Marissa's boyfriend. Oh, and Mr. Cohen, of course, but I doubt Mrs. Cohen will share.

Yet, she still took it upon herself to sign me up. I protested, giving 101 reasons why it's a bad idea, but she insisted. Talking about how this is a chance to make friends before school and meet boys. But what she overlooked was that every available boy had a date. Hell, even Ryan managed to get partnered with Summer. Seth was... well he should have been beyond pissed. If anything, it was just mild disappointment that crossed his features.

But then even Seth got someone, another new girl named Anna. She was pretty, of course she was all the girls here were. But that left me, a stowaway in case one of the girls got sick or something.

Summer offered to help me find a dress, but Marissa was too caught up in the drama with my brother to give her best friend the attention she craved. Not that I minded, Summer and I just clicked like puzzle pieces.

I wanted to hate her just a little. But how could I when she was so sweet and smelled so good and helped me out when she didn't need to.

"This one's cute!" she said, pulling a gown off the rack, but after a glance at my height, she put it back. "I forget, not everyone's as tall as Marissa,"

"No worries, and seriously, thanks for helping me. I probably just would have picked the first one I saw,"

"Which is why I am your savior. You can't show up to the deb ball in just any dress. It has to be perfect."

I didn't know the first thing about dresses. I wanted to, of course. But given my previous situation, dresses and overall fashion wasn't something I had time to bother with.

'This one! This one! This one!" Summer exclaimed, throwing a dress my way. "Try it on!" she said, thrusting me toward the dressing room.

The girl had a lot of strength for being so lithe. I locked the door behind me and put the dress up to my body in the mirror.

It was chiffon with light straps. The bodice was fit to be almost corset-like, snug to my body until it opened into the skirt, which was flowy. Very fairy princess-esque. I put it on and smiled at the mirror, no matter how cliche. It was the first time I had ever been in a dress like this. First and last, seeing as I don't think I'll ever get married.

"Do you hate it?" Summer popped her head inside. The girl had zero sense of personal privacy.

"Summer!' Get out!" I squealed, but she squeezed her way inside.

"Wow, girl,"

"What? Is it bad?"

"Is it- are you kidding? If you were having trouble finding a date, you sure as hell won't be now. I mean seriously I think I might feel a little jealousy creeping in."

"Shut up," I giggled, pushing on her shoulder a bit, "As if you aren't a model and friends with other models."

"Good, so we are friends!" she smiled, stepping out of the room.

I heard her call for Mrs. Cohen, so I walked out.

What I didn't expect was for Ryan and Seth to round the corner as well.

"Wow," Seth breathed out, while his mom was much more vocal.

"Hailey! Darling, you look stunning! Doesn't she look beautiful?" she says, walking behind me and squeezing my shoulders, showing me off like I was her own.

Ryan chimed in first, "You look like you belong in a forest, playing in the trees," That was the best I was going to get from him.

I breathed in before answering, "Thanks, I think..."

Seth just stood with his mouth slightly open, staring with wide eyes. Feeling flustered, I turned in Mrs. Cohen's grasp. "You like it?"

"Oh, sweetheart, I love it!"

****

The next day, we came back to the country club for practice. What Mrs. Cohen neglected to tell Ryan and me, was that it was dance practice.

Ryan was so screwed. I, on the other hand, was just lonely. Standing off to the side like unwanted cake. With the way Ryan kept fumbling, it might just be better for me to become Summer's escort. I could dance better.

Seth and Anna seemed to be getting along fairly well. Good for her, he was a nice kid.

I had been sitting alone for about ten minutes until a different guy walked in. I hadn't seen him before.

"Sorry I'm late," he interrupted the class. The teacher looked unphased while Marissa left Luke to speak to the new kid. I saw her point in my direction and then walk back to Luke.

"You must be Hailey, right? I'm Issac," the boy, Issac, said, offering his hand to help me up.

I took it and answered, "Yeah, I'm Hailey. Nice to meet you."

"Nice to meet you too, I've been tasked with being your escort to this ball," Oh god

"Excuse me?" I questioned, making sure I wasn't hearing things. I looked over to Seth and Ryan, and Seth had already been looking at me.

"Yeah, Marissa told me that she had a girl who needed a date. So, here I am, your white knight," He joked, but I didn't laugh.

I couldn't figure out what was more pathetic. Not having a date or having your date be bribed to bring you.

"You don't have to do this, you know," I say as he brings me onto the dance floor. We started copying everyone else, and I had look down at my feet to not trip up.

"Good thing I want to do this. Marissa said you were pretty, but sometimes she's too nice. Good thing this time she was honest,"

"Thanks, I think?"

"Anytime doll,"

We practiced the dances until the teacher called for a break. I went back over to my stuff while Issac followed.

"You like the curly-haired one or something?"

I practically spit out my water, "What?"

"If you weren't looking at your feet, you were glancing over your shoulder at him. Or is it the blonde you like? Can never be too sure around here,"

"No- I, I don't even know her. And as for Seth, 'cause he has a name, he just told me he couldn't dance is all, so I was waiting for him to trip up or something," I stuttered out.

"Whatever you say, doll,"

We sat in silence until the teacher started up again. This time I made sure to keep my eyes on my date, not anyone else's.

****

"Three hours of dancing? I'm going to dream about the moves tonight in some weird freaky flashmob scenario," I said, walking out with Ryan and Seth.

"Should have warned you," Seth mumbled. He was weird, but I didn't want to be the only one who noticed. "Who was that guy you were dancing with?"

Ryan shot his head toward Seth, "Why man, you don't know him?"

"Never seen him before,"

I chimed in, "His name is Issac. Marissa called him for me so I wasn't dateless,"

Seth fired back, "How old is he?"

"Not sure, but probably our age,"

"Does he go to school around here?"

"I don't know, I didn't ask," I answered, getting a little agitated.

"Do you know anything about him?"

"Oh my god, why? Do you want to fuck him or something?"

That got him to shut up, looking appalled at the insinuation. "No, No of course not. I was just curious. And worried, you never know. He could be an axe murderer,"

Ryan laughed, "Guess she won't know until she's axe murdered then,"

"That's not funny! That happens!"

"Not in this town," I said.

****

After that, we went home, but later on, the boys went out to a party. I stayed home, wanting some much-needed rest before the big day.

Instead, I learned to never skip a party. Luke and Ryan fought again, and Ryan decided that he wouldn't go to the ball. Which left Summer, dateless.

When we arrived at the venue, she was close to tears, "Hailey, this can't be happening! This is a dream for me. For my parents, what am I gonna do!"

I brought her in for a hug and thought about it. I wasn't supposed to be here anyways and this was totally unfair for her. Why should I debut, but she shouldn't? "Take my escort,"

She pulled away immediately, "What?'

"I'm serious, take Issac. He's super sweet and cute. You deserve this. I'm sorry my brother is the most dramatic guy in town," I laughed, trying to lighten her mood.

"But what about you? What about your dress and your debut?"

"I'll live. Go, introduce yourself,"

"Are you sure about this?" she sniffled one last time.

"I've never been more sure about something,"

She launched herself in my arms again, a slew of thanks spilling from her lips, before she bounded away, off to find her prince charming.

A little while later, Luke walked in, fuming. Shouting about how Marissa wasn't coming. A pit formed in my stomach, anyone but him.

I looked at Seth, who was busy talking with Anna. I was so screwed.

I kept my head down, hoping Luke wouldn't find out that I was available. Not like he would want me, but this thing was important.

I heard footsteps make their way over and my heart started racing. Someone tapped me on the shoulder, I reluctantly looked up.

To my surprise, a head of curls was in place of the spiky blonde I was expecting to see, "Seth?"

'I heard that you gave Summer your date,"

I nodded, wanting him to continue, "I let Anna go to Luke. She said her parents would like it better if she debuted with someone who had more status,"

"Oh," was all I could say. I felt bad for him. "You seemed to be getting along so well though,"

"Yeah, I tend to be a very good friend to girls. Nothing more though,"

"Sorry. Your mom is going to be so disappointed," I said looking down.

"Not if we go together,"

My head shot back up, "You would want to go with me? Like, be my date?"

"Doesn't look like I have another option,"

"Right..."

"Sorry, that came out wrong. Just that, of course, I would like to be your escort, if you'll have me," he said, getting down on one knee, more level with me.

I smiled at him, "But you don't even want to be here,"

"Yeah and you swore the same, yet here you are. With a little disappointed pout on your face. It's okay to want this, you know?"

"You'll be my date?"

He grabbed my hand, "Of course."

****

A/N: wow!!! I haven't updated this story in forever. To be fair, I didn't think anyone would really read it. But apparently, people are?? which is awesome! so here's part four! let me know your thoughts and if you want this to be continued <3

[mymetric360]

Best 72 Inch Bathroom Vanity US: Modern Style with Storage & LEDs? #BathroomVanity #HomeImprovement #ModernDesign #SmartLiving Are... Link: https://mymetric360.com/question/best-72-inch-bathroom-vanity-us-modern-style-with-storage-leds/?feed_id=292733&_unique_id=6725042705d86

[willowbathandvanityus]

Elegant 72-Inch Bathroom Vanity with Ample Storage

Upgrade your bathroom with this stunning 72-inch vanity, designed to combine style and functionality. Featuring a spacious double-sink countertop, it offers ample storage with multiple drawers and cabinets, making organization easy and clutter-free. The elegant design complements both modern and traditional aesthetics, with high-quality materials that ensure durability. Perfect for larger bathrooms, this vanity is an ideal blend of beauty and practicality, elevating your space with a sleek, sophisticated look.

[bathroomvanityblog]

Transform Your Bathroom with the Perfect Vanity

Hey there, home improvement enthusiast! Are you looking to give your bathroom a fresh, stylish upgrade? Let's talk about one of the most impactful changes you can make: the Bathroom Vanity. This essential fixture not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your space but also adds functionality and convenience. In this article, we'll dive into everything you need to know about bathroom vanities, from choosing the right style to installation tips. Ready to transform your bathroom? Let's get started!

Why a Bathroom Vanity?

A bathroom vanity is more than just a sink and a cabinet. It's the centerpiece of your bathroom, combining style and utility in one neat package. Think of it as the crown jewel of your bathroom decor. Here's why it's essential:

Functionality: Provides storage and counter space.

Aesthetic Appeal: Sets the tone for the room's design.

Value Addition: Enhances the overall value of your home.

Ever walked into a bathroom and felt an immediate sense of luxury? That's often due to a well-chosen vanity. It's like the difference between wearing an old pair of jeans and stepping into a tailored suit.

Choosing the Right Style

Selecting the perfect vanity can be overwhelming given the plethora of options. But don't worry, we've got you covered! Here are some popular styles to consider:

Modern Vanities

If you're a fan of sleek, minimalist designs, modern vanities are your go-to. These often feature clean lines, neutral colors, and innovative materials. Imagine walking into your bathroom and feeling like you're in a high-end spa. Sounds great, right?

Materials: Glass, metal, and high-gloss finishes.

Features: Floating vanities, integrated sinks.

Colors: White, black, grey, and metallic tones.

Traditional Vanities

Love the charm of classic designs? Traditional vanities offer a timeless appeal with ornate details and rich wood finishes. It's like bringing a piece of vintage elegance into your home.

Materials: Wood, marble, and ceramic.

Features: Raised panel doors, decorative molding.

Colors: Warm wood tones, cream, and muted colors.

Rustic Vanities

For those who prefer a cozy, farmhouse vibe, rustic vanities are a perfect choice. These vanities exude warmth and character with their distressed finishes and natural materials.

Materials: Reclaimed wood, stone.

Features: Open shelving, copper sinks.

Colors: Earthy tones, like brown, beige, and green.

Sizing and Placement

Now that you've got a style in mind, let's talk about size and placement. It's crucial to choose a vanity that fits your bathroom space perfectly. Here's a handy guide:

Small Bathrooms: Opt for compact vanities (18-24 inches). Wall-mounted options save floor space.

Medium Bathrooms: Go for standard sizes (24-36 inches). You can include additional storage options like drawers and cabinets.

Large Bathrooms: Consider double vanities (48-72 inches). These offer ample counter space and storage for a luxurious feel.

Think of your vanity as a puzzle piece. It needs to fit just right to complete the picture without overwhelming the space or looking out of place.

Materials and Finishes

The materials and finishes of your vanity play a crucial role in its durability and look. Here's what you need to know:

Countertops

Granite: Durable and stylish, but requires sealing.

Quartz: Non-porous and low-maintenance.

Marble: Luxurious but prone to staining.

Cabinets

Solid Wood: Sturdy and long-lasting, but more expensive.

MDF: Cost-effective and resistant to moisture.

Plywood: A good balance between cost and durability.

Installation Tips

Installing a vanity might seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can be a smooth process. Here are some tips to guide you:

Measure Twice: Ensure your vanity fits the space and aligns with plumbing.

Level It Out: Use a level to ensure the vanity is perfectly horizontal.

Secure Properly: Attach the vanity to wall studs for stability.

Connect Plumbing: Reconnect your sink and faucet to the plumbing system. If you're not confident, don't hesitate to call a professional.

Maintenance and Care

To keep your vanity looking pristine, regular maintenance is key. Here's how:

Clean Regularly: Wipe down surfaces with a mild cleaner.

Avoid Standing Water: Prevent water damage by drying off surfaces after use.

Seal Stone: If you have stone countertops, seal them periodically to prevent staining.

Conclusion

Choosing and installing the perfect bathroom vanity can seem like a daunting task, but it's a rewarding one. Remember, your vanity is not just a functional piece; it's a statement of your style and a focal point in your bathroom. So take your time, explore your options, and don't be afraid to make a bold choice. After all, a well-chosen vanity can transform your bathroom from ordinary to extraordinary. Ready to get started on your bathroom makeover? Happy decorating!

[anantradingpvtltd]

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[buildmyplace21]

What are standard sizes for traditional bathroom vanities?

Nowadays, everyone can own a vanity fixture in their bathrooms. Therefore, you can easily find a suitable one in 20” and 24”. So, if you are looking for a traditional-looking Bathroom Vanity, you can easily find one from 20 to 72 inches.

[thebathvanitiesstore]

The bathroom is the most important part of any apartment and if you want to personalize your home to a unique style then buy 72 inch modern bathroom vanity with plenty of home decor, accessories, and furnishings. Bathroom planning should be attractive and convenient. Sometimes the 72-inch modern bathroom vanity is equipped with two sinks so the furniture piece is suitable for large families.

[ohpsshaw]

~DFS Christmas Special~

No desire to draw lately, so I’ve been doing little prose sketches instead.

Just in time for December, here’s what turned out to be Uncle Jack taking Al Christmas shopping. This would be circa 199X B.G. (Before Glenn), making Al in his early 20s.

(Watch out if you have high blood sugar, cos this gets KINDA SACCHARINE.)

It had finally stopped snowing, thank goodness. The fresh white blanket reflected crisp light in through the windows, making him feel chilled inside. Luckily Pop was a comfort creature who kept a stock of hot chocolate mix in the pantry. Al never seemed to reach for it back at his apartment, but something about visiting home in the winter months made a warm mug feel as essential as a limb.

Uncle Jack had asked Al to accompany him for some holiday shopping later, and a chocolate briquette would be good to have heating his gut. He took it to the couch in the living room. Someone had dug up the old photo books and left them on the coffee table a few days ago. Flipping through, he noticed that half the pages were completely empty— photography had never been a popular concept in the Czar household. The preserved moments were of family trips and landmarks, rambunctious sepia-washed office parties, Al’s school portraits. Rarer was anything taken inside the house. One shot of himself at four or five years old, standing on the yellow-sunlit staircase and showing the camera a toy car, surfaced a memory of being coached to keep his mouth closed so as not to alarm a 1-hour photo developer. Thinking on it, it may have been more than coincidence that most of these were instant Polaroids.

Through the window, he heard the muffled sound of a car door, then: “What the fuck are you doing!?” Hey, Pop’s home. Al pulled back the curtain to watch the drama unfolding at the end of the driveway, where Uncle Jack had been chipping at the wall of powder the afternoon snowplow had left. Xav had just returned from morning errands and parked in the street, storming over the slush to stop his brother from working.

Cold air blasted from the foyer. Snow crunched as Xav shook out the snow shovel behind him. “Why was he doing this by himself? Did you become a quadriplegic when I wasn’t looking?”

Al flipped through the Rolodex in his head for the answer that would earn him the least amount of grief. He shrugged, as if confused by the absurdity of the question. “He didn’t ask.”

“I didn’t ask, Max.” Jack took the shovel back. “But you’re right, I should have. Reckon it was my vanity what did me in— I can’t stand to be upstaged by some young buck doing the same job in half the time.” He winked at his nephew. “Well, three-quarters.”

“Oh, fuck off,” Xav spat, the corners of his mouth curling up against his will. “You both know I’m not being unreasonable. You’re not a guest, Alan Henry. As far as I’m concerned, you still live here. You earn your keep during the day, and MAYBE I’ll consider putting on my robe and letting you suckle dinner from my left tit.”

Al choked on his hot chocolate.

“Shit. Careful on the carpet. I’ll get you a paper towel.” Xav left for the kitchen, grumble-exorcising demons as he walked. “If Papa caught one of us sitting on our ass while the other did chores...”

Why did Pop have to save his best lines for when people were eating? Bent over and lapping chocolate out of the crevices of his palm, Al thought he saw a piece of marshmallow among the bubbles. Heh... hope that didn’t come out of his nose.

“You still need me to shovel?” he asked Jack.

“Son, I would be honored,” Jack nodded, holding the shovel on the doormat like a knight leaning on an orange sword. “Gitcher boots on and you can finish the job before we head out. I’ll make sure your Pop watches the show from inside.”

Xav returned with the towels and a smirk. “Talking shit about me, Jack?”

“I was just sayin’ how you’ll hate to see us go, but you’ll love to watch us walk away.”

“Got that fucking right.” Al cleaned his face while Xav dabbed each of his fingers individually. An oddly tender gesture. “What are you two going out for, exactly?”

“Juuust... shoppin’. I need Alan’s opinion on somethin’.”

“Uh-huh.” Secrets being a rare and dangerous thing in this family, there wasn’t much question as to what this was really about. Especially between brothers who were as close as twins. But the holidays were about giving, after all, so Xav seemed to decide to give them the benefit of the doubt. A game is more fun when everybody plays along.

Truthfully, even Al wasn’t sure what they were going to get for his father. A successful family man hitting his sixties doesn’t want for much. By this point, Xav had enough neckties and “#1 Dad” mugs to be buried surrounded by them like a pharaoh. Jack could always steal the show by reaching into his deep D.D.S. pockets or by making a new piece of furniture, but the son was held to no such standards. Xav had simple hobbies, and he seemed to have the house exactly how he wanted it. Was Al too old to make a coupon book, redeemable for hugs and remembering to use a coaster?

Or maybe his gift to Pop could be giving college another shot. Dropping out had caused some... friction, a flint-strikes-wood situation that had led to Al moving out of the house, and eventually out-of-state. He had to admit, the independence felt good. Putting his shoes on the coffee table, not having to tell anyone where he was going... he’d definitely become more promiscuous. No independent murders, though, which was starting to grate on him. He’d realized lately that he had always expected to be allowed to do more, without his father and uncle. Maybe if he did what Pop wanted, things would calm down so he could move back to Michigan and use the cabin. But the idea of sitting in another classroom, taking notes on a subject he didn’t care about, all for the promise of 50 years chained to a desk... It made him want to sleep forever.

When the car pulled up to the mall, Al was not surprised at all by the entrance his uncle had chosen. “Mind if I peek in Sears?” Jack asked, as if wild horses could stop him.

Home improvement and appliance stores were another phenomenon Al only seemed to experience at home. The dusty, unvarnished smell and high ceilings had been a frequent backdrop during his childhood— for Jack, they seemed to be akin to a candy store. He was talented as a carpenter and repairman, and sincerely relished something going wrong with the house if it meant he could pull out his toolkit. He also liked to make things go wrong with human bodies on occasion, but there was a separate box for those tools waiting up at the cabin.

Two steps in the door, and a weary-looking holiday hire hit them up with a canned pitch: “...and I’m happy to help you find whatever’s on your list!“ Aggressive customer service, the bane of the paranoid shopper. Jack was the front line for shaking off overly helpful greeters, which Xav had called “the second-worst thing to come out of the 80s after Iran-Contra.”

“Just lookin’, God willing— I brought my conscience with me to make me behave,” Jack looked to his nephew. “Don’t let me buy a single screw, y’hear?”

“Got it. Bulk purchases only.” That earned Al a shove.

Salesperson successfully deflected, Jack ducked toward his usual corner: the big ticket carpentry goods. When Al caught up, he was running his hand over a table saw. As much as he loved his uncle, Al wasn’t particularly interested in watching him fantasize about cutting wood, or even bone. “You have a project in mind?”

“A bit of a science experiment, next time we play cards,” Jack’s pupils darted along the equipment, still in reverie. “I’ve been readin’ a book about crucifixions, and how they affect the body.”

“Oh, that’s seasonal.”

“‘Course, I won’t be able to try it ‘til next year. You think your Pop would let me pick out a rabbit by April?” Jack chuckled. He was not talking about the Easter bunny. “We can see if she comes back to life after three days.”

Al snorted. “Jesus.”

“Precisely. Y’know, Christ is usually depicted with holes in his hands, but in actuality, the Romans would have put the nails through his wrists.” Jack picked up Al’s arm to demonstrate, dancing fingers across his palm. “Ain’t much to take hold of in here. It’s too fragile and open-ended. But if you move up the arm,”— he pressed his thumb into the straightened portion of Al’s median nerve— “You can hook the radius and the ulna. Much better support.” Jack’s eyes flickered with glee. “And it hurts like a bitch!”

“Wait, are you going to go first, or last?” Playing cards was usually a once-a-year affair, and the night Al looked forward to the most. If Jack snuffed her out before he had his turn...

“Oh, don’t worry, son. Done right, she could last for days.” Not that she would, since Pop would probably have something to say about that. “I just want to try, er... doin’ as the Romans do. And who knows, maybe you’ll like it. Every bachelor eventually needs to have a girl nailed down!”

They cackled and then shushed each other, wincing like sneaky little boys at the idea that someone would hear them over the store’s ambient shopping muzak. They really shouldn’t talk like this in public, even with code words and euphemisms. Though over the years they’d learned that people can be experts at ignoring what’s right under their noses. Certainly none of the men had ever overheard anyone else planning a murder.

“It’s just a pipe dream, I’m still in the plannin’ stages,” Jack added. “Ain’t even got the lumber yet. So if you wanna put some packages under the tree that are, say, 4-by-6 and 72 inches long... I promise to be shocked when I unwrap ‘em.”

Al’s attention shifted over his uncle’s shoulder, to a shelf of handheld orbital sanders. Al was more of a hands-on kind of guy— he still got a little queasy thinking about Jack’s experiment to see which sandpaper grit was the best at removing skin.

“So what was it you wanted me to look at? I don’t think Pop needs a crucifix for Christmas.”

“Oh, I’m just killin’ time before our appointment.”

“Appointment?”

“At the photo studio. I want you to give your Pop a picture.”

“...of us?”

“Naw, just you.”

Al loved that. “Yeah, that’d be hilarious. Merry Christmas, Pop, I got you me!”

A pause. “Oh, you’re serious.”

“As a heart attack, son. It’s just what he needs.”

“Do you have, I don’t know, a backup plan?” Al faltered. “Something less self-centered? I’m not exactly his favorite person right now. He kind of thinks I’m a failure.”

“Alan, you are not a failure. You are...” Jack patted his nephew’s cheek. “An unbroken mustang who has not yet found his ranch. And your father is just tryna keep you from bein’ sold as horse meat.” He slid them into a far aisle for more privacy. “He worries about you a lot, and he misses you somethin’ fierce.”

Al chewed his cheek. “Well, talk to him about showing it sometime.”

“No, son,” Jack took him by the shoulder, looking around to make sure they were alone. “Your father cries. At night when he talks about you, he starts wellin’ up like a waif. He doesn’t need to hear that you know about it, but it’s the God’s honest truth. All he talks about is wantin’ you back home.”

“I think movin’ out has been good for you, and I’m happy you did it. But it wounded him to his core. You’re his heart, kid.”

Al wasn’t sure how he was taking this information, but he knew how he was supposed to. He scrunched his eyes closed and took a deep breath.

“Okay... If you’re completely sure he won’t think it’s stupid.”

“Are you kiddin’? He’ll put it on the nightstand.” Jack grinned. “And if you smile for it real nice, I’ll take you to that steakhouse in the plaza after.”

Al cocked an eyebrow. “You were gonna go there anyway.”

“Yes. Yes, I was. But won’t you enjoy your ribeye that much more knowin’ you’ve earned it?” Mmn, maybe. “Besides... did you have any better ideas?”

⬥ ⬥ ⬥

Come Christmas Day, Xav had unwrapped the waist-up portrait and just said “thank you”— which was worrying because he was usually much more verbose than that— and gone silent in his chair. At least he wasn’t mad. Al looked to Jack, who smiled knowingly and handed him a package to keep the gift exchange going.

Al figured it was because Jack had given him something funny, but then he heard his father breathe in sharply.

“Maudit tabarnak... you fucking assholes,” Xav’s voice sounded high and squeaky, like it was being squeezed through slabs of rock. He ducked his chin into his bedshirt collar to hide his face.

“You, fucking... why’d you have to...” He shook his hand at the framed photo. Oh boy, he really did hate it. The whole idea was idiotic. Al had sat in front of that artfully-mottled green backdrop and squinted for a man with a bow tie and no indoor voice for nothing, except for the sheer discomfort of it. And a ribeye steak with a baked potato.

Xav blinked up at the ceiling and gulped, his Adam’s apple fluctuating grotesquely. Eventually he seemed to find his voice again. “Why didn’t you tell me you were having pictures taken, so I could make sure he had his fucking hair combed?” He showed them the photo. “Look at his bangs— they’re all over the fucking place.”

Al had to admit, they did look a little wild. “Aw, shoot. Sorry, Pop,” he laughed.

Jack tutted. “I think it looks nice. Rugged.”

“That’s because you don’t know how to comb your hair either, Jack.” Xav brought the photo back into his lap, looking it over. “Looks like he fought a bear before sitting down. But don’t worry, I still like it. You look handsome, kid. Maybe I can find some space on my nightstand.” Al and Jack exchanged victory grins, and didn’t catch Xav wiping tears from both eyes.

[furnitureoutletblog]

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