#Backyard Classic Repair parts

[ukhoomes4u]

How to Transform Your Outdoor Space with Skilled Patio Contractors?

A patio can be the heart of any outdoor space, a place to relax, entertain, and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings. Hiring professional patio contractors can turn that vision into reality if you've been dreaming of a perfect patio. From design to installation, patio contractors can guide you through every step, ensuring your new patio is beautiful and functional. Here's everything you need to know about working with patio contractors and how they can bring your outdoor living dreams to life.

Why Choose a Professional Patio Contractor?

Creating a patio might seem like a DIY-friendly project, but professional patio contractors bring expertise that can make all the difference. Their experience lets them know which materials, layouts, and features will work best for your yard's size, climate, and purpose.

The Benefits of Hiring a Patio Contractor

There are many advantages to hiring a professional for your patio project:

Expert Design Advice: Patio contractors can offer design suggestions based on your style and yard space, whether you're looking for a cozy seating area, a modern lounge, or a multi-functional outdoor kitchen.

High-Quality Materials: Contractors have access to various materials, from durable pavers and natural stone to wood and concrete, and can help you choose the best one for your budget and needs.

Professional Installation: An experienced contractor will know how to prepare the area, lay the foundation, and ensure proper drainage so your patio remains in top shape for years.

Finding the Right Patio Contractor

Choosing the right contractor is key to a successful patio project. Here are a few tips to help you find a reliable patio expert:

Check Reviews and Recommendations: Look for contractors with good reviews and positive feedback from past clients. Personal recommendations from friends or neighbours can also be a great starting point.

Look at Their Portfolio: Most patio contractors will have a portfolio of completed projects. Reviewing their work can give you a sense of their style and quality, helping you find someone whose work you admire.

Get Multiple Quotes: Request quotes from a few contractors to compare pricing, timelines, and services. Be wary of quotes that seem unusually low, as this can sometimes mean compromised quality.

Popular Patio Materials and Styles

One of the biggest decisions in patio design is choosing the right materials. Here are some popular options that patio contractors often work with:

Concrete: Durable, versatile, and affordable, concrete is a popular choice for patios. It can be stamped or coloured for a customised look.

Pavers: Available in various colours, shapes, and sizes, pavers offer a classic look and are easy to repair.

Natural Stone: Known for its elegance and natural beauty, stone is a premium choice for patios. Options like flagstone, slate, and limestone create a luxurious look.

Brick: Timeless and charming brick patios have a classic appeal and work well with many home styles.

Customising Your Patio with Unique Features

One of the best parts of working with a patio contractor is adding special features to make the space your own. Some popular add-ons include:

Fire Pits: A fire pit creates a cozy gathering spot and extends the use of your patio into cooler months.

Outdoor Kitchens: For those who love to cook and entertain, an outdoor kitchen with a grill, countertops, and a sink is a fantastic addition.

Water Features: Fountains or small ponds add a touch of tranquility and elevate the ambience.

Pergolas and Shade Structures: Keep your patio comfortable on sunny days with a pergola or retractable shade cover.

Final Thoughts

A new patio can transform your backyard into a functional, beautiful space for relaxation and entertainment. Hiring a patio contractor ensures your project is done with precision and care, resulting in a space you'll love for years. From design planning to material selection, a skilled contractor can make the process easy and enjoyable. If you're ready to create your dream patio, consider contacting a trusted patio contractor today!

[spsprofessionalfencega]

Benefits Of Wood Fence Installation In Roswell And Cumming, GA

Installing a fence around a property is not only for security but also to add to the aesthetic appeal. Many users go for modern materials that are not only easy to erect but happen to be long-lasting. It is not surprising to find many individuals determined about wood fence installation in Roswell and Cumming, GA, as natural wood remains a classic material of fencing that cannot go out of style anytime soon. ​ Sure, fencing can be of diverse types, with the privacy wood fence being the most popular one. It is a perfect solution to protect both the front garden and backyard simultaneously, especially when the fencing encircles the entire property without leaving any gaps in between. Such a sturdy fence is fully capable of keeping burglars and trespassers at bay. Moreover, the homeowner is sheltered from the prying eyes of a neighbor, thus ensuring privacy in addition.

It is customary to check the associated facts of wooden fence installation and learn more about its pros and cons. This can be useful for the end-user to make the final decision vis-à-vis the installation of a sturdy fence capable of protecting the property on all sides. It is indeed interesting to note the following benefits that are sure to be pleasing for the property owner: 

l ·Easy to Replace- The wood is easily replaceable when the existing fence is damaged. Fortunately, the replacement wood is likely more effective than any other material. The company that helped with the installation may be contacted to replace the damaged materials as they are sure to be able to source quality materials when it is time to replace the damaged fence completely or partially.

l · Quick Installation- Natural wood is easy to work with, making the installation process much quicker. Cutting the material into the requisite shape and length does not take time, nor is it too time-consuming to color or embellish the fence as necessary. Even a fix can be speedy when only a part of the fence needs to be removed and repaired or replaced. The end-user is happy to find the task completed within hours, thanks to the efficiency of the contractor.

l · Affordability- Erecting a fence made out of wrought iron, vinyl, chain link, or aluminum can be pricey compared to natural wood. Opting for wood fencing is indeed the best decision when a strict budget limits the homeowner. It is also essential to discuss the price of diverse materials, the types of wood, and the labor cost, and compare the different rates of all materials carefully before making the final decision favoring wooden fencing.

While the damage to the fence can be fixed without much ado, it is essential to contact professionals with the right skills and experience to ensure fence repair in Cumming and Johns Creek, GA. The expert would be able to fix the damage regardless of the complexity. Choosing the right service provider is crucial regardless of the installation of a new fence, repairs, or replacing the worn-out fence.

[leo-a-r]

"Why Paver Installations are the Secret to Boosting Your Home's Exterior Appeal."

When you think of a beautiful home, what’s one of the first things that come to mind? Chances are, it's the exterior. The look of your home’s entryway, driveway, or backyard patio plays a massive role in its overall aesthetic. If your outdoor areas are looking drab, upgrading with paver installations could be the key to transforming your home and boosting its curb appeal.

Pavers are a popular choice for homeowners who want more than just a functional outdoor space. They bring both style and durability to a wide range of landscaping projects. From creating stunning driveways and walkways to designing luxurious patios and pool decks, pavers offer versatility that is hard to beat. In this article, we’ll explore the top benefits of paver installations and how they can take your home’s exterior from average to extraordinary.

For an in-depth look at how pavers can enhance your home’s curb appeal, be sure to read a detailed article : Paving the Way: 10 Benefits of Paver Installations That Will Enhance Your Home’s Curb Appeal.

1. Achieve a Polished Look Without Breaking the Bank

When it comes to home improvement projects, curb appeal matters. It’s not just about impressing guests; a well-designed outdoor space can make your home stand out and even increase its market value. Installing pavers is a cost-effective way to give your property an upscale look without the hefty price tag of more expensive options like natural stone or intricate masonry work.

Unlike traditional concrete, which can look bland or crack over time, pavers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors that allow you to create a design that’s unique to your home. Whether you're aiming for a rustic cobblestone look, a sleek modern appearance, or something in between, pavers offer the flexibility to suit your style preferences.

2. Exceptional Durability for Long-Lasting Results

One of the standout features of paver installations is their durability. Pavers are designed to last for decades, with little wear and tear, even in the harshest of weather conditions. Unlike poured concrete, which can crack under pressure or during freezing and thawing cycles, pavers interlock in a way that allows for movement. This makes them highly resistant to damage from shifts in the ground or severe weather.

For homeowners, this means fewer repairs and replacements, and an outdoor space that looks pristine year after year. Whether you're installing a driveway, walkway, or patio, pavers are made to handle heavy foot traffic, vehicle loads, and the stresses of outdoor living.

3. Maintenance-Free Beauty

One of the main attractions of paver installations is their low-maintenance nature. Unlike other surfaces that require frequent sealing, staining, or patching, pavers retain their beauty with minimal upkeep. For the most part, all they need is an occasional cleaning. Simple sweeping or power washing is usually sufficient to keep dirt and debris from accumulating.

Furthermore, pavers are incredibly easy to repair. If a paver becomes damaged due to heavy impacts, stains, or general wear, it can be replaced without disturbing the surrounding surface. This is a major advantage over asphalt or concrete, which require costly and labor-intensive repairs when damage occurs.

4. Customization for Your Unique Style

Every home is unique, and your outdoor space should reflect that individuality. Pavers come in a wide variety of colors, textures, and shapes, offering you endless possibilities for customization. Whether you prefer the natural beauty of stone or the sleek elegance of modern concrete, you can create a design that enhances the character of your home.

Unlike a one-size-fits-all material like concrete, pavers can be arranged in patterns that suit your taste. From classic herringbone and basket-weave designs to circular patterns and intricate mosaics, the design options are virtually limitless. Pavers also allow you to mix materials to create a dynamic, layered look that adds depth to your exterior.

5. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable

In today's world, environmental responsibility is more important than ever. If you're looking for an eco-friendly way to upgrade your outdoor spaces, pavers are a great option. Many pavers are made from natural materials such as clay, stone, or recycled concrete, all of which are durable and sustainable.

Additionally, permeable pavers—designed with spaces between each piece allow rainwater to naturally filter into the ground, reducing water runoff and helping with drainage. This feature is especially beneficial for regions that experience heavy rain or frequent flooding, as it prevents water from pooling and damaging your landscape.

By installing permeable pavers, you can have a stylish outdoor space that is also environmentally conscious.

6. A Strong Return on Investment

Paver installations are more than just an aesthetic upgrade; they’re also a smart financial investment. If you're planning to sell your home in the near future, a well-designed driveway, patio, or walkway can significantly increase the market value of your property.

Homes with thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces often have an edge over similar properties that lack curb appeal. Whether it’s a charming front walkway or a spacious backyard patio, buyers are increasingly drawn to homes that offer both beauty and functionality in their outdoor areas. With the proper paver installation, your home could see a substantial return on investment.

7. Safety Comes First with Pavers

When selecting materials for outdoor surfaces, safety should always be a priority. Pavers are designed with slip-resistant surfaces, which makes them an excellent option for areas that will be exposed to moisture, such as pool decks or walkways. The texture of pavers offers better traction than other materials, reducing the likelihood of slips and falls, particularly when it’s wet.

Additionally, pavers are great for creating clear boundaries for walkways and driveways, reducing the risk of accidents. Whether you’re creating an elegant path through your garden or installing a driveway, pavers can help keep your outdoor space both safe and stylish.

8. Cost-Effective and Easy to Maintain

Although pavers may cost a bit more upfront than other materials like gravel or asphalt, their long-term cost-effectiveness makes them a solid choice for homeowners. Pavers require little maintenance beyond cleaning, and they are built to last for decades. The money you save on repairs and replacements can easily outweigh the initial investment.

Furthermore, pavers add value to your home, making them an excellent choice if you plan to sell in the future. Homes with high-quality landscaping, including paver installations, often sell faster and at a higher price.

9. Versatility for Any Outdoor Space

One of the biggest advantages of pavers is their versatility. Pavers can be used in a wide range of outdoor applications, including:

Driveways: Pavers can support the weight of vehicles without cracking or shifting. They provide a durable, aesthetically pleasing surface that enhances your home’s entryway.

Walkways: Whether leading to your front door, through your garden, or around your yard, pavers create a stylish and functional path.

Patios: Pavers are perfect for creating inviting outdoor spaces where you can relax, entertain, or enjoy a meal outdoors. Their customizable nature allows you to design a patio that fits your needs.

Pool Decks: Pavers are ideal around pools, as they offer a non-slip surface and remain cool to the touch, even on hot summer days.

With so many applications, you can create a cohesive look throughout your property by using pavers in different areas.

10. Transform Your Home with Pavers

Pavers offer an easy, affordable way to transform your home’s exterior. With a vast array of materials, colors, and patterns, pavers allow you to design a space that’s uniquely yours while adding lasting value to your home. Whether you're looking to revamp your driveway, enhance your backyard, or create an elegant walkway, pavers provide a timeless solution that combines beauty, durability, and functionality.

For expert paver installations and stunning outdoor designs, visit a Trusted Paver and Services Contractor. Our team specializes in designing and installing high-quality paver features that elevate both the aesthetics and functionality of your property.

Want to learn more about the specific benefits of paver installations and how they can enhance your home's exterior? Check out my article on Medium: Paving the Way: 10 Benefits of Paver Installations That Will Enhance Your Home’s Curb Appeal.

If you’re considering transforming your driveway or outdoor spaces, feel free to reach out to a Trusted Paver and Services Contractor for expert advice and reliable service. We offer a variety of paver solutions that meet both your budget and design preferences.

For more information on how we can help improve your home’s exterior, please visit AJC Pavers your trusted partner for exceptional paver installations.

[jackofalltrades124]

Transform Your Backyard into a Luxurious Retreat with Expert Hardwood Decking

When it comes to elevating your outdoor living experience, nothing compares to the timeless beauty and durability of hardwood decking. At Jack of All Trades, we specialize in providing premium hardwood decking services that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home but also increase its functionality and value. Our expert team is dedicated to delivering top-notch craftsmanship and stunning designs tailored to your unique preferences, ensuring your outdoor space becomes a luxurious retreat for relaxation and entertainment.

The Elegance of Hardwood Decking

Hardwood decking is renowned for its rich, natural appearance and exceptional durability. Unlike other materials, hardwood offers a unique blend of strength and beauty, making it an ideal choice for homeowners who seek a high-quality outdoor living area. Whether you prefer the deep hues of Ipe, the classic charm of Teak, or the warm tones of Cumaru, our selection of hardwoods provides a variety of options to suit any style and preference.

Why Choose Jack of All Trades?

Expert Craftsmanship: At Jack of All Trades, our team consists of skilled craftsmen who take pride in their work. With years of experience and a keen eye for detail, we ensure every decking project is executed with precision and care. From the initial consultation to the final installation, our focus is on delivering superior quality that exceeds your expectations.

Customized Designs: We understand that every home and homeowner is unique. That's why we offer customized decking solutions tailored to your specific needs and preferences. Our design experts work closely with you to create a deck that complements your home’s architecture and reflects your personal style.

Durability and Maintenance: One of the key benefits of hardwood decking is its long-lasting durability. Our hardwood decks are built to withstand the elements, providing you with a sturdy and reliable outdoor space for years to come. Additionally, we offer comprehensive maintenance services to keep your deck looking pristine, ensuring it remains a beautiful and functional part of your home.

Enhanced Value: A well-designed and expertly installed hardwood deck not only enhances your outdoor living experience but also adds significant value to your property. By choosing Jack of All Trades, you’re investing in a feature that boosts your home's curb appeal and market value.

Our Services

At Jack of All Trades, we offer a complete range of hardwood decking services designed to meet all your outdoor living needs:

Installation: From initial design to final installation, we handle every aspect of your decking project with professionalism and expertise.

Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial for preserving the beauty and longevity of your hardwood deck. Our maintenance services include cleaning, sealing, and repairs to keep your deck in top condition.

Repairs and Upgrades: Whether you need minor repairs or a complete upgrade, our team is equipped to address any issues and enhance your deck’s functionality and appearance.

Create Your Dream Outdoor Space

Imagine stepping out onto a beautifully crafted hardwood deck, where you can unwind with a book, host family gatherings, or enjoy a quiet evening under the stars. With Jack of All Trades, this vision can become a reality. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction ensures that your outdoor space will be transformed into a luxurious retreat that you and your family will cherish for years to come.

Contact Us Today

Ready to enhance your outdoor living area with premium hardwood decking? Contact Jack of All Trades today to schedule a consultation. Let our expert team show you how we can create a stunning, durable, and functional deck that adds value and charm to your property. Trust us to deliver exceptional results that will make your home the envy of the neighborhood.

[realfencingrotorua]

Real Fencing Rotorua

When it comes to finding a fence contractor in Rotorua, New Zealand, our team at Real Fencing Rotorua is like a well-oiled machine - no, really, we even make fences, not just oil them. But let me tell you, it's not just about the fences we build; it's the craftsmanship and attention to detail that sets us apart. From timber to aluminium, chain link to pool fencing, we've got you covered. And let's not forget about those fence repairs - trust us, you won't be disappointed.

TIMBER FENCING When installing timber fencing, we always prioritize durability and aesthetics to meet our clients' needs. Timber fencing offers a classic look that enhances the overall appeal of any property while providing a sturdy boundary for privacy and security. Our team at Real Fencing Rotorua ensures that each timber panel is meticulously installed to withstand the test of time and New Zealand's varying weather conditions.

We source high-quality timber materials that are treated to resist rot, pests, and decay, ensuring longevity without compromising on style. Our skilled craftsmen pay attention to every detail, from precise measurements to seamless assembly, resulting in a flawless finish that complements the natural surroundings.

Not only do we focus on the structural integrity of the timber fencing, but we also consider the design elements to harmonize with the existing landscape. Whether our clients prefer a traditional picket fence or a modern horizontal slat design, we tailor each project to reflect their unique preferences and enhance the beauty of their outdoor spaces.

ALUMINUM FENCING For our clients seeking a modern and low-maintenance fencing solution, aluminum fencing offers a sleek and durable alternative to timber options. At Real Fencing Rotorua, we value the versatility and aesthetic appeal that aluminum fencing brings to residential and commercial properties. One of the key advantages of aluminum fencing is its durability. Unlike timber fencing, aluminum is not susceptible to rotting, warping, or insect damage, making it a long-lasting choice for your property.

Additionally, aluminum fencing requires minimal maintenance, saving you time and money in the long run. Its powder-coated finish provides a protective layer that helps prevent rust and corrosion, ensuring that your fence looks great for years to come with little effort on your part. Another benefit of aluminum fencing is its lightweight nature, which makes installation easier and more cost-effective compared to heavier materials.

Furthermore, aluminum fencing offers a modern and sleek look that can enhance the overall appearance of your property. Whether you prefer a traditional or contemporary design, aluminum fencing can be customized to suit your style and security needs. Contact us at Real Fencing Rotorua to explore the possibilities of aluminum fencing for your property.

CHAIN LINK FENCING We appreciate the durability and cost-effectiveness that chain link fencing offers to our clients at Real Fencing Rotorua. Chain link fencing is a popular choice for both residential and commercial properties in Rotorua due to its versatility and low maintenance requirements. At Real Fencing Rotorua, we understand the importance of providing our clients with long-lasting solutions that also fit within their budget, making chain link fencing an ideal option.

Chain link fencing is known for its strength and security, making it a reliable choice for property owners looking to enhance safety without compromising visibility. Whether you need to secure a backyard, commercial property, or construction site, chain link fencing provides a sturdy barrier that can withstand various weather conditions.

Additionally, chain link fencing is quick to install, minimizing disruptions to your daily routine. Our team at Real Fencing Rotorua is experienced in efficiently installing chain link fencing to meet our clients' specific needs. Contact us today to learn more about how chain link fencing can benefit your property in Rotorua.

POOL FENCING Our expertise in providing durable and cost-effective fencing solutions extends to the installation of pool fencing for residential and commercial properties in Rotorua. When it comes to pool fencing, safety is paramount. We understand the importance of having a secure barrier around pools to prevent accidents and comply with local regulations. At Real Fencing Rotorua, we offer a variety of pool fencing options to suit your specific needs and style preferences.

Our pool fencing solutions are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the overall look of your pool area. Whether you prefer glass fencing for a modern and sleek look, aluminum fencing for durability, or wooden fencing for a more natural feel, we have the expertise to install it with precision and attention to detail.

METAL FENCING When considering fencing options, metal fencing stands out as a versatile and durable choice for both residential and commercial properties in Rotorua, New Zealand. Metal fences are known for their strength and longevity, providing excellent security and privacy while enhancing the overall aesthetics of a property. At Real Fencing Rotorua, we offer a wide range of metal fencing options to suit various needs and preferences.

One of the key advantages of metal fencing is its low maintenance requirements. Unlike some other materials, metal fences are resistant to rot, pests, and weather damage, ensuring that they stay looking great for years to come with minimal upkeep. Additionally, metal fences can be customized in terms of design, height, and color, allowing property owners to achieve the desired look and level of security.

Whether you are looking to secure your home, business, or industrial property, metal fencing is a reliable and cost-effective solution that can meet your requirements. Contact us at Real Fencing Rotorua to explore the metal fencing options available for your property.

PVC FENCING Considering fencing options in Rotorua, New Zealand, PVC fencing emerges as a versatile and low-maintenance choice for residential and commercial properties. PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, fencing offers a range of benefits that make it an attractive option for many property owners. One of the key advantages of PVC fencing is its durability; it is resistant to rot, rust, and insect damage, ensuring a long lifespan. Additionally, PVC fences are easy to clean – a simple rinse with a garden hose is usually all that's needed to keep them looking great.

Another benefit of PVC fencing is its versatility in terms of design. PVC fences come in various styles, colors, and heights, allowing property owners to choose a fence that complements their property's aesthetics. Furthermore, PVC fences are relatively easy to install, making them a convenient option for those looking to enhance their property with minimal hassle.

FENCE REPAIRS With proper maintenance and timely attention, fence repairs can prolong the lifespan of your property's fencing in Rotorua, New Zealand. Regular inspections are crucial to identify issues early on, such as loose boards, leaning posts, or rusted wires. These minor problems, if left unattended, can escalate into larger and more costly repairs. At Real Fencing Rotorua, we emphasize the importance of addressing these issues promptly to ensure the security and aesthetics of your property.

When it comes to fence repairs, our team has the expertise to handle a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, and PVC. Whether it's replacing damaged panels, reinforcing sagging sections, or fixing broken gates, we strive to deliver efficient and durable solutions that meet your specific needs. By entrusting your fence repairs to professionals like us, you can rest assured that the job will be done right the first time, saving you time and money in the long run.

Don't wait until small problems become major headaches. Contact Real Fencing Rotorua today for reliable and affordable fence repair services in Rotorua, New Zealand.

Conclusion Overall, Real Fencing Rotorua is your go-to fence contractor in Rotorua, New Zealand. From timber fencing to aluminum, chain link, pool, metal, and PVC fencing, they have you covered. They also offer fence repairs to keep your property secure and looking its best. Trust Real Fencing Rotorua for all your fencing needs in Rotorua and beyond.

Fencing Rotorua

[webberestates]

Homes for Sale Conejo Valley: Unlocking Your Dream in California's Paradise

Homes for Sale Conejo Valley: Unlocking Your Dream in California's Paradise Ah, the Conejo Valley. Nestled amidst rolling hills and bathed in California sunshine, it beckons with a promise of idyllic living. Whether you crave sprawling single-family estates with sparkling pools or charming townhomes with walkable access to vibrant downtowns, the Conejo Valley boasts a diverse selection of homes to suit every lifestyle. But navigating the exciting, yet sometimes overwhelming, world of Conejo Valley real estate requires a roadmap. Fear not, future homeowner! This comprehensive guide, optimized for your "Homes for Sale Conejo Valley" search, will equip you with the knowledge and resources to transform your dream into a reality. Finding Your Perfect Fit: A Journey Through Home Types The Conejo Valley offers a delightful smorgasbord of home types, each catering to specific needs and preferences. Let's delve into the most popular options: Single-Family Homes: Experience the ultimate in privacy and independence with expansive lawns, dedicated backyards perfect for summer barbecues, and the joy of creating your own personal oasis. Remember, with great freedom comes great responsibility. Yard maintenance, home repairs, and snow removal (okay, maybe not that last one!) become part of the package. Condos: Craving a lock-and-leave lifestyle amidst a vibrant community? Condos might be your perfect match! These shared-wall havens offer the convenience of shared maintenance, often boasting amenities like pools, gyms, and even dog parks. Imagine impromptu gatherings with neighbors on the rooftop deck or lazy afternoons by the pool without a lawn mower in sight. However, condo living requires a bit of compromise. Shared walls mean shared noise, and parking spaces can sometimes be scarce. Townhomes: Think of townhouses as the happy medium between single-family homes and condos. They offer individual living spaces with shared walls, providing a blend of privacy and community. Enjoy dedicated yards and patios for outdoor activities without the extensive upkeep of a single-family home. Be aware, though, that shared walls and potential HOA regulations can impact your sense of freedom. Architectural Gems: A Symphony of Styles Beyond the practical considerations, explore the magic of architectural styles in the Conejo Valley. Do you envision yourself in a: Spanish Hacienda: Imagine terracotta tiles, wrought iron balconies, and a touch of Old World charm. Modern Masterpiece: Sleek lines, glass walls, and floating staircases create a home that feels both futuristic and elegant. Craftsman Bungalow: Embrace the warmth and comfort of a classic Craftsman with its inviting porches, exposed beams, and natural materials. Mediterranean Villa: Bask in the grandeur of arches, sun-drenched patios, and a touch of European flair. Location, Location, Location: Unveiling the Conejo Valley's Hidden Gems The Conejo Valley boasts a collection of charming towns and vibrant neighborhoods, each offering a unique character and lifestyle. Consider these popular options: Thousand Oaks: This bustling city offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, with top-rated schools and a thriving arts scene. Westlake Village: Imagine lakeside living with stunning scenery, world-class shopping, and a relaxed atmosphere. Agoura Hills: Nestled amidst rolling hills, Agoura Hills offers a peaceful escape with a strong sense of community. Oak Park: This charming town boasts a historic downtown, a tight-knit community, and easy access to nature. Embrace the Conejo Valley Lifestyle The Conejo Valley isn't just about stunning homes; it's about embracing an unparalleled lifestyle. Here are just a few reasons it's a dream come true for many: Award-Winning Schools: Provide your children with the best possible education in consistently top-rated school districts. Outdoor Adventures: Hike through scenic trails, explore hidden waterfalls, or simply relax on pristine beaches – the Conejo Valley caters to every outdoor enthusiast. Cultural Delights: Immerse yourself in art galleries, museums, and a vibrant cultural scene that offers something for everyone. Thriving Economy: The Conejo Valley boasts a strong and diverse economy, offering a wealth of professional opportunities. Your Conejo Valley Journey Begins Now Ready to embark on your Conejo Valley real estate adventure? Partnering with a local, experienced realtor is key to navigating the process seamlessly. Kevin and Carie Webber, Ramsey-endorsed and trusted experts in the Conejo Valley, can guide you through every step, from understanding your needs and budget to finding your dream home and negotiating a successful deal. Speak directly with us at (805) 558-3360 Read the full article

[koochieplay123]

Choosing the Perfect Children's Play Equipment: A Comprehensive Guide by Koochie Play

Selecting the perfect play equipment for your children can be an exciting yet challenging task. With an abundance of options available, it's crucial to make a choice that not only keeps your child entertained but also promotes their physical, mental, and social development. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of Childrens outdoor play equipment, ensuring that you make an informed decision that benefits both your child and your family.

Chapter 1: Understanding the Importance of Play

Before delving into the specifics of play equipment, it's essential to recognize the critical role that play plays in a child's development. Play is not just a pastime; it's a fundamental part of a child's learning process. It enhances cognitive, emotional, and physical development, fosters creativity, and teaches valuable social skills.

Chapter 2: Assessing Your Child's Needs and Interests

The first step in choosing the perfect play equipment is to consider your child's age, interests, and developmental stage. A toddler will have different needs than a school-age child. Ask yourself:

What are my child's favorite activities?

Do they prefer active play or imaginative play?

How much space do I have for play equipment?

Are there specific skills I want my child to develop through play?

By answering these questions, you can begin to narrow down your options and select equipment that suits your child's unique needs and preferences.

Chapter 3: Types of Children's Play Equipment

Swing Sets:

Swing sets are classic and beloved by children of all ages.

They promote physical activity and coordination.

Look for durable, weather-resistant materials for longevity.

Playhouses:

Playhouses encourage imaginative play and social interaction.

Consider the size of your backyard when choosing a playhouse.

Opt for easy-to-clean and safe materials.

Climbing Structures:

Climbing structures enhance motor skills and confidence.

Ensure that climbing equipment is age-appropriate and safe.

Look for non-slip surfaces and sturdy handholds.

Slides:

Slides are thrilling and great for physical activity.

Safety is paramount; check for secure handrails and sturdy construction.

Consider the slide's height and design for your child's age.

Sand and Water Play:

Sand and water play tables stimulate sensory exploration.

Look for tables with covers to protect against weather and debris.

Provide a variety of toys and accessories for endless creativity.

Chapter 4: Safety First

When choosing play equipment, safety should be your top priority. Here are some safety considerations:

Ensure that the equipment meets safety standards and certifications.

Check for sharp edges, exposed screws, or any potential hazards.

Make sure there are no small parts that could pose a choking hazard.

Inspect the play area regularly for wear and tear.

Provide adequate supervision, especially for younger children.

Chapter 5: Space and Placement

Consider the available space in your backyard or play area. Measure the area where you plan to install the equipment and ensure there is enough room for safe play. Leave adequate space around the equipment to prevent accidents and collisions. Additionally, think about the ground surface; soft, impact-absorbing materials like rubber mulch or artificial turf are ideal for safety.

Chapter 6: Budgeting for Play Equipment

Play equipment comes in a wide range of prices. Set a budget that aligns with your financial situation and stick to it. Keep in mind that quality and safety should not be compromised for cost savings. Sometimes investing a bit more upfront can save you money in the long run by avoiding replacements or repairs.

Chapter 7: Maintenance and Durability

Quality and durability are key factors when choosing play equipment. You want equipment that can withstand the elements and the wear and tear of active play. Look for products made from durable materials like powder-coated metal, high-density polyethylene, or cedar wood. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and inspections, will prolong the lifespan of the equipment.

Chapter 8: Involving Your Child in the Decision

To ensure your child's enthusiasm and engagement with the play equipment, involve them in the decision-making process. Show them different options and discuss their preferences. This not only empowers your child but also encourages responsibility and ownership of the play area.

Chapter 9: Assembling and Installing

If you're not confident in your DIY skills, consider professional installation. Proper assembly is crucial for safety. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and if you have any doubts, seek expert assistance.

Chapter 10: Incorporating Play into Daily Life

Once your play equipment is in place, make playtime a part of your daily routine. Encourage your child to explore, create, and learn through play. It's an opportunity for them to develop physical skills, build friendships, and cherish unforgettable childhood memories.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect children's play equipment is a significant decision that can positively impact your child's development and happiness. By understanding your child's needs, prioritizing safety, and considering various equipment options, you can create a play area that provides endless joy and enriching experiences for your child. Remember that play is not just a way to pass the time; it's a valuable investment in your child's growth and well-being.

[baypoolsandspasau]

Creating Your Pool Paradise: Pool Installation Perth

Welcome to Bay Pools and Spas, your trusted partner for pool installation in Perth. With years of experience and a passion for creating dream pools, we are committed to turning your backyard into a luxurious oasis of relaxation and fun. 

Our pool installation process begins with a thorough consultation to understand your vision and requirements. Whether you desire a classic, family-friendly pool or a sophisticated, resort-style escape, our team of experts will work closely with you to design a pool that complements your lifestyle and enhances the beauty of your property.

At Bay Pools and Spas, we offer a wide range of pool designs and styles to choose from. From elegant lap pools to free-form designs that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, we have the expertise to bring your ideal pool to life. Our team is well-versed in the latest industry trends and innovations, ensuring that your pool features state-of-the-art technology and equipment.

Quality is at the heart of what we do. Our pool installation process involves using the finest materials and adhering to strict construction standards to ensure that your pool is not only visually stunning but also durable and long-lasting. We believe in delivering pools that provide years of enjoyment for you and your family.

Throughout the installation process, we prioritize clear communication and transparency. Our team will keep you informed at every step, from obtaining necessary permits to the construction timeline and any potential adjustments to the design. We strive to complete your pool installation efficiently and within budget, without compromising on quality.

Safety is paramount, and our pool installations adhere to the highest safety standards. We take every precaution to create a safe environment for your pool, including secure fencing and child-proof features. You can have peace of mind knowing that your family's safety is our top priority.

As part of our commitment to excellence, we provide professional maintenance and servicing for your pool after installation. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that your pool remains in pristine condition and continues to function optimally. Our team of skilled technicians can handle everything from routine cleaning to equipment repairs, allowing you to enjoy your pool without any worries.

In addition to pool installation, Bay Pools and Spas also offers a wide selection of pool accessories and features to enhance your pool experience. From energy-efficient pool heaters and LED lighting to relaxing water features and luxurious spa additions, we can customize your pool to create a space that reflects your unique preferences and desires.

Customer satisfaction is at the core of our business. We take pride in our reputation for delivering exceptional service and top-quality pool installations. Our team is committed to going above and beyond to ensure that you are delighted with your pool and that it exceeds your expectations.

Transform your backyard into a private retreat with Bay Pools and Spas. Experience the joy of a custom-designed pool that brings beauty, relaxation, and endless memories to your home. From the initial concept to the final splash, our team is here to guide you through every step of the pool installation process.

 Get started on creating your dream pool in Perth today. Contact Bay Pools and Spas to schedule a consultation and let us make your pool installation a seamless and rewarding experience. Discover the possibilities and dive into luxury with Bay Pools and Spas.

[histoireettralala]

XIIIth century cities

In the prosperous thirteenth century, European cities began for the first time to rival in size and importance those of the classical world and contemporary Asia. Paris, London, Ghent, Bruges, Cologne, Florence, Genoa, Pisa, and others now sheltered behind their battlemented walls large and growing populations of craftsmen and merchants living lives free from feudal subjection, if not from modern tax oppression. It has been calculated that in 1380 half the population of Flanders and neighboring Brabant dwelt in cities.

In contrast with that of a late Roman or early medieval administrative center, the life of a thirteenth-century commercial and industrial city was full of activity: craftsmen working, merchants trafficking, wagons creaking, all the noise, bustle, and vitality of urban life. Its consumption was satisfied by a busy transport system, its exports and imports were underwritten by sophisticated credit arrangements, its many needs so successfully satisfied that one modern historian asserts that "few significant refinements were added" until recent times.

That is not to say that no further "refinements" were needed. The high population density was met in part by houses sharing party walls and subdivided into small apartments. Inevitably, problems of waste disposal and pollution arose. Tanners and butchers discarded entrails, blood, and hair in the streets; animals dropped manure; pigs, dogs, and rats raided garbage; open ditches served as sewers for storm water and wastewater; privies and cesspits occupied backyards. Traffic —horse, cart, pedestrian, and animal— crowded the streets, piling up at the gates where tolls were collected. Collisions provoked a stream of lawsuits. Heating and cooking, as well as industry, added smoke to the atmosphere. The smoke was almost entirely from wood and charcoal, whose fires had two other drawbacks: in combination with timber framing and thatched roofs, they created a citywide fire hazard, and they depleted the neighboring forest. Charcoal was especially wasteful of medieval man's best resource; while it gave more heat, essential in most industrial processes, its preparation burned up several times its weight in wood. Yet even where superior heating capacity was not needed, charcoal was often used because its lightness made it more transportable. Home heating was in any case extremely inefficient owing to the lack of window glass or insulation.

Coal was known in Europe at least by the thirteenth century but was sparingly used out of fear of the toxic nature of its fumes. In England it was first gathered from outcroppings washed ashore on the northeast coast and was known as "sea coal," a name that stuck even later when it was mined inland.

By the late Middle Ages, strenuous efforts to alleviate some of the problems were being made by city authorities, rich and influential men who unlike their modem descendants lived in the city themselves and had a direct interest in the environmental quality. Two keys to urban sanitation were street paving and storm sewers, both of which were known to Rome and a few other ancient cities. Moorish Cordova paved its principal streets in the ninth century, but Paris and the largest Italian cities followed only in the late twelfth and thirteenth. Paving was indispensable for street cleaning, but besides being expensive to install, it needed endless upkeep. Cobblestone or brick surfaces had to be repaired and replaced under the pounding of heavy cart wheels that were either iron shod or, worse, wooden but studded with nails. Street repair was often done directly over the old broken surface, causing a rise in street level.

Paris dug the first storm sewer in the fifteenth century and was copied by a few other cities, but at the end of the Middle Ages most towns still depended on open ditches that flooded in heavy storms. Systems designed to handle domestic sewage and industrial waste awaited the nineteenth century, when London pioneered a combined system. Meanwhile cities were still pocked with private cesspits, periodically emptied at "an understandably high cost" (Christopher Dyer). Archaeologists found one medieval London latrine to contain a thousand gallons of ordure. Bylaws and building regulations sought to control maintenance and cleaning of the pits.

City water supply nearly always depended on local sources: wells, springs, and rivers. Professional water carriers assisted distribution from the fountain in the town square or the public well, served by bucket and windlass or bucket and counterweight. Better-off households had their own wells or cisterns, for which the proximity of cesspools and latrines posed chronic pollution problems and contributed to epidemics.

Running water and domestic plumbing were not unknown in the Middle Ages but were limited mainly to monastic precincts, such as the cathedral priory at Canterbury, where water was carried by underground pipes to the infirmary, the refectory, the kitchen, the bathhouse, and the prior's chambers. After use, the wastewater ran off by a drain that flushed the "necessarium" (latrine). At Clairvaux, similarly, as described by St. Bernard's biographer, water was first channeled into a seriesof industrial applications—grinding the grain and shaking the flour sifter, filling the boiler for the monks' beer, and operating the fulling and tanning machinery; then divided into several branches for cooking, washing, watering, rotating, or grinding, "always offering its help and never refusing," finally, "to earn full thanks and to leave nothing undone, it carries away the refuse and leaves all clean."

In some cities, garbage disposal was handled by public streetcleaning services, usually on Saturdays. Elsewhere, ordinances made householders responsible for their own rubbish, probably an ineffective solution. More successful was the regulating of certain occupations. Butchers were assigned waste-dumping sites or ordered to dump outside town. Tanners and dyers were usually restricted to the city's outer limits. Results of all these measures were imperfect, but, according to Christopher Dyer, towns of the later Middle Ages were "less filthy" than they had been a few centuries earlier.

Some cities delegated inspectors to tour the streets periodically, not to check on their cleanliness but to detect encroachments. Riding down a narrow street, an inspector carried a pole across his saddle; where he could not pass freely, the offending shop owner was fined and forced to retract his shop front.

Public baths in the Roman style were common in thirteenth-century cities, with the wall fireplace finding a new function in heating water for bathing. When many baths were shut down in the fourteenth century, because of scandals arising from unisex bathing, the private bathtub took their place. Made of wood, it was susceptible to splintering, leading to the subsidiary invention of the bath mat, placed in, rather than next to, the tub.

A public service with a larger future that appeared in many cities by the fourteenth century was the municipal grammar school, which taught reading, writing, arithmetic, and even a little Latin to the sons and occasionally the daughters of merchants and artisans. The increasing literacy of the public widened the demand for books, now copied by professional scribes and marketed by professional booksellers.

Joseph & Frances Gies - Cathedral, Forge and Waterwheel

[gtainspectors]

What to look for while inspecting the property’s garage

Once one begins to relate to the house, a house becomes a home. We covered everything a house contains in our previous informative segments. We should have focused on a key part of the property. It’s the garage in the house!

Residential property inspections generally include a thorough examination of the premises. We have seen residential properties with separate segments — most likely some nails and equipment.

Bonus points for doing it right!

We would like to draw your attention to the garage that is located along your breezeway. One expects everything when building a home. Modern house owners expect their property to include a garage that can be used for parking their cars and provides time for repairs and maintenance.

Today, we will examine what garage inspections cover and the aspects that it covers. First, consider whether you have a detached garage or carport on your property. You must make sure that your garage inspection covers rigorous garage snagging.

Dubai is changing rapidly and the ideal home design and functionality are being redesigned. It is not uncommon to see garages built alongside the property’s breezeway or backyard. When inspecting the garage, you should first check that it conforms to the laws of the land.

We have seen many instances when compliance with the laws led to the demolishment of garages as an property snagging company. Inspections are the only way to validate such structures. Knowing the laws of the land can save you from unapproved constructions on your property.

After you’ve given your approval on the design and structure, it is time to inspect the slope and drainage. A classic garage structure has a concrete slab or tin slab that allows for drainage. Property inspectors inspect the garage and evaluate the slope and cracks. Drainage is essential during monsoon season because there are potential for blockage or overflowing water from the garage’s slope. Property inspectors must examine both the slope and drainage in conjunction. This includes the valuation and detection of moisture on the slab, which could cause spalling damage, and other related issues.

After the drainage and slope have been verified, it is time to inspect the garage’s structural strength. This step is where the professionals who are conducting the snagging check the operation of the garage. This phase is the most thorough. Everything, including electrical, structural, and ventilation, are checked. This includes a thorough inspection of the garage’s ceilings, walls, and frames.

The process then moves on to the next stage where the property inspectors will record every minute observation of the garage in a document that everyone can read!

You guessed correctly, it’s the inspection report we are referring too! With the information and suggestions in the report, it is time to make your own modifications in your garage. Include what you think will be beneficial in the long-term.

We hope you are now more familiar with the basics of garage inspections. GTA Inspectors can help you if there is a damp slope, crack drain or mould on the side walls.

[grillpartshub-blog]

Replacement Stainless Steel 5 Pack Pipe Tube Burner, Heat Plate Deflector Repair for Backyard Grill Gas Models

Stainless Steel Straight Pipe Tube Burner, Dimensions:17-7/16 inches x 1 inch Porcelain Steel Heat Plate, Dimensions 15″x 3 13/16″ Fit Backyard Classic BY12-084-029-98, BY13-101-001-13, BY14-101-001-04, GBC1255W, GBC1355W-C, GBC1460W

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[fromthedust]

Kenton Nelson (American, b.1954, working in Pasadena)

FIVE AGAIN

RED TOP

POOLSIDE #4

TROUBLE

INTERMISSION

SHEARS

OVERNIGHT GUEST - watercolor

TWO SEATS 

BLUE DRESS - watercolor 

 A POSE - watercolor

POOLSIDE #2

EARLY TRANSPORTATION

REPAIRING

SIMPLE NEEDS

At age 40 Nelson picked up a paintbrush and began to revisit his Southern California roots with depictions of beach, backyard poolside views, and close-up views of simple everyday objects. He often uses his wife (“She’s my ideal, so she’s very easy to paint”) as model, he paints very classic beautiful women doing the most ordinary of activities: eating popcorn, sitting at the table, folding linens, climbing out of the pool. These depictions of the mundane convey a voyeuristic sense of the past. Be they objects, structures or people, Nelson’s subjects recall his 1960s youth and, like the advertising of that era, present promise and hope for a better tomorrow. “I couldn’t wait for the future when I was a kid,” said Nelson. “That was such a part of growing up. You don’t hear that now and you don’t appreciate the little things that defined us. There are ideas that simply cannot be improved,” he said. “That’s why I love a hose nozzle. It’s a perfect machine.”

Old family photos are often used as a starting place, and by cropping a picture Nelson found he could better tell the story. “If you cut off someone’s head, if you lose the eyes, it becomes Everyman,” he said. “Someone once asked me for a nude, so I painted a woman’s shoes and stockings at the foot of a bed.”

Cropping the image reveals Nelson’s sense of visual humor, and that humor is carried through in many of his titles. 

Kenton Nelson says “I want to be a great artist, but great is a big word. Your best work is always your next work, so I may never retire.”

https://www.kentonnelson.com/

Below are three ���process’ shots showing preliminary drawings on the canvas for FIVE AGAIN, DIRECTION, and BACKGROUND paintings.

[spsprofessionalfencega]

Tips For Fence Repair in Alpharetta and Cumming, GA

Being able to own a home makes the American dream come true. The challenge is to set boundaries and ensure privacy as well as security. One may try the white picket fence to keep the trespassers away and the children and pets well inside. The picket fence may be too flimsy to be of real use. Instead, it is essential to think of something more sturdy and effective. Ensuring a quality wood fence installation in Alpharetta and Cumming, GA, can be an ideal solution. ​ It is essential to understand that simply procuring some wood and a set of tools will not be enough to install the fence flawlessly. Instead, the homeowner will find hiring a seasoned professional to take on this onus more satisfying. The proper installation of an eye-pleasing wood fence around the property or the backyard/front yard is sure to provide the following advantages to the residents:

1. Affordability- A wooden fence remains affordable as the natural resources are plentiful and may be sourced from multiple dealers. The appearance of natural wood that is treated to eliminate pests and other damages can be pleasing to look at, too. One does not need to paint the fencing either. The ultimate result is cost-effective, with its functionality being top-notch.

2. Low Maintenance- Natural wood is prone to damage by natural elements. Cleaning the wooden boards is pretty simple, with sprays of water capable of removing the contaminants. The base material may be protected with polish or paint, which does not need frequent upgrades either. Removing a rotten or broken board by replacing it with a new one is simple enough. There is no need to remove the fencing when a part is damaged.

3. Options- There are options galore when the homeowner is eager to install a wooden fence. The user may go for the classic white picket fence and choose a modern, contemporary style, too. From choice of wood to styles and designs, the end user is split for choice when determining an apt fence made of wood. Apart from the variety of wood, color, and style, the consumer may want to add another layer to the fence, too. There is also the possibility of paddocks, pickets, shadowbox, and/or split rail and stockade.

4. Eco-Friendly- The idea of adding to the carbon footprint is not endorsed. Fortunately, natural wood comes from a renewable source, and the process of sourcing it does not damage the environment. It is a sustainable option that is preferred by most today. Moreover, the homeowner is welcome to voice their concerns and ask for a fence installation method that has a low environmental impact.

5. Increased Property Value- Additions and alterations to a property are usually done to improve the ROI. Installing a wood fence can be functional in guarding the residents and ensuring security. Moreover, it increases curb appeal, significantly increasing property value.

It is most important to hire seasoned professionals for fence repair in Alpharetta and Cumming, GA, instead of considering it to be a DIY task.

[mypoisonedvine]

Getting In Tune | Chris Evans x reader fluff

summary: taking house calls as a piano tuner doesn’t usually mean meeting hot guys… mostly just old ladies who offer you lemonade, which is great and all, but did not prepare you for an appointment to tune chris evans’ full grand.

word count: 3.7k

warnings: swearing, dirty jokes about pianos, allusions to nsfw things?? vaguely?, mostly just fluff and flirting and awkwardness

Checking that the address on your worksheet matched the one on the door in front of you, you reviewed the nature of the appointment as your boss had written out for you: 

Customer: Christopher Evans

Appointment type: Warranty tuning and check-up

Arrival time: 10 a.m. 

You checked your watch and saw that it was 9:58, but hopefully that wouldn’t bother him too much.  Leaning forward, you knocked on the door and waited.  You could hear a dog barking inside, running up to the other side of the door as someone unlocked the bolt and cracked it open, poking his head out while he held the dog back with his leg.

He seemed a little surprised to see you standing there, made even more apparent by the fact that he was obviously wearing pajamas— specifically, a baggy tank top and gingham flannel pants.  A few tattoos were visible on his arms and collarbones, though you tried not to stare at them or anything.

“Did you not know you had an appointment today?” you asked him.  When he didn’t answer, you tried to give a bit more of a prompting.  “I’m here from Boston Steinway…?”

“Right, right,” he agreed, “uh, let me put the dog out, and… put on a shirt…”

“Good idea,” you suggested, “I’ll be here!” 

He smiled at you one more time before shutting the door again, his footsteps shuffling away as you waited for his return.  Thankfully it was a nice day out so you weren’t too cold in your work uniform (yes, you felt like a total dork having to wear a polo with a nametag on it, but such is the life of a piano tuner).  When you heard the dog run into the backyard, and the sound of Chris coming back to open the door, you took a moment to straighten yourself in hopes of looking like you’d been waiting patiently.

“Come in please,” he offered as he opened the door one more time, wearing a navy sweater and jeans now (and a NASA ball cap, for whatever reason) and stepping aside to invite you in.

“I hope I didn’t scare you too much,” you smiled as you stepped past him, letting him shut the door behind you, “a lot of people forget when I’m supposed to show up, trust me.”  You shuddered as you remembered those times you caught people in a lot worse than pajamas.

“No, I knew somebody was coming today, I just… wasn’t expecting…” he trailed off.

“A girl?” you finished for him with a smirk.

“I… yeah, I guess I wasn’t expecting a girl,” he laughed, looking a little embarrassed.

"Well, piano tuning is a real boy's club," you joked.  

"Is it?" he asked sincerely.

"Um, no, not particularly."

"Oh."

After an awkward moment passed while you cringed internally at your failed joke, he finally guided you across the house to where the piano was; you set your toolbag down beside it, stepping back to admire the instrument.  “It’s gorgeous,” you told him.

“Oh, thanks,” he smiled a little.  “Yeah, she’s a beaut.”

“How long have you been playing?” you asked.  “Or are you one of those people who keeps it mostly for decoration.”

“Decoration?” he repeated incredulously.  “Do people do that?”

“Yeah,” you nodded, “more often than not I end up doing cosmetic repairs instead of internal ones because families are basically using this as the most expensive object possible to put framed family photos on.”

“That’s ridiculous,” he scoffed, “I mean, I’m sure I’m not using this thing the way it deserves, cause I’m still not very good at it but… yeah, at least I play it a few times a week.”

“Good, it deserves that,” you agreed.  “Mind if I…?”

“Oh, go ahead,” he prompted, stepping back and motioning for you to touch the piano.  You didn’t sit down, just leaning over to do a quick scale up and back down.  "Anyways, I think it's mostly fine but those higher notes are getting kinda squeaky…" he mumbled.

"Right,” you noted, messing around with the keys near the top to check what he’d said, “well, they do that, especially out here with these cold winters making the strings tighten up.  Should be fixable."

“Great,” he smiled.

“Alright, pretty girl, let’s take a look at your guts,” you grinned, groaning a bit as you lifted the heavy lid to see the strings inside.  "It's in great shape,” you observed aloud, “this can't be more than a few years old."

"Yeah, I got it pretty recently actually.  It's never been tuned before."

"Oh, this is its first time?" you smirked, leaning in to whisper to the strings: "don't worry, I'll be gentle."

He blushed a little as he laughed, making you pretty sure your joke hadn't gone too far.

“You, uh, don’t have to be around for this part,” you informed him.  “I mean, unless you want to, but it’ll just be me messing around in here for a few hours.

“No, I’ll give you some space,” he decided, “just let me know if you need anything.  Do you want, like, water or something?”

“I’m fine, but thanks,” you dismissed, “just continue as if I wasn’t here.”

“Oh, you don’t wanna see that,” he disagreed, looking like he regretted saying it as soon as he finished his sentence.  You felt your face warm and hoped he just meant that he’d be eating cheetos out of the bag in his underwear and not anything more… mature.  

As he awkwardly shuffled away, you opened your toolbox and got to work.  Your first task was to get a pitch reader so you could figure out how well-tuned each string was— you set that on the soundboard and got to work testing keys and reading the little digital display of your device.  Once that told you how much work each key needed, it was easy to just put your tuning hammer on one pin at a time, loosening or tightening until the pitch was just right.  You couldn’t just start at one side and tune all the way up to the other, oh no, there was a very specific ideal tuning order that you’d memorized by now: first the middle strings of the octaves from C3 to C5, then the one of each of the unison strings in the double bass section, then the middle strings from C5 to C8, then the lower single bass strings, then every left string of all the unisons from C3 to C8, then the rest of the double bass section, and finally all the right strings from C3 to C8.

Easy peasy, right?

It actually sort of would be, if you hadn’t gotten stuck on the unison bass string of E flat 3, your tuning hammer suddenly unable to turn even when you tried to brace yourself against the piano for some leverage.

"Um, Mr. Evans?" you called out.

"Yup!" he answered, swinging out from the entryway instantly— he must have been waiting just outside, which made you feel a little like you were being spied on.  

"Would you maybe come over here and use your manly-man strength on this?"

"My what now?" he laughed, walking towards you.

"You know," you explained by flexing your biceps and making a sort of serious face; your charades version of what a muscular man looked like, apparently.

"Oh, I see," he nodded, "my—" and he repeated the charade, except it made your face warm and your eyes all but bulge out of your head.  That was him jokingly flexing?!  What did he look like when he was actually trying to show his muscles?

You tore yourself from that train of thought as he leaned over the edge of the piano, gripping the tuning hammer you'd left on the pin there.

"This one?" he asked.

"Yeah, just give it a little nudge counter-clockwise, please."

He did it like it was no trouble at all.

"You could've at least pretended it was difficult," you rolled your eyes.

"No, you loosened it up for me," he winked.  WINKED.  Was he trying to kill you or something?  "Chris is fine," he said abruptly.

Chris is fine indeed, your brain supplied instantly.  "I'm sorry?" you choked out aloud instead.

"You can call me Chris, I mean," he explained.  "You called me Mr. Evans before."

"Oh, right," you nodded.  "Chris.  Thanks for your help with that, Chris."

"Sure thing," he smiled.

Just as the conversation began to lull, you could hear the dog whining and scratching at the back door, and you felt so guilty that he had been left outside.  “You can let the dog back in, you know,” you suggested, “I don’t mind.”

“I shouldn’t,” he shook his head, “he’ll jump all over you and stuff…”

“No, really, it’s fine, I love dogs,” you assured him.

“Alright, just prepare yourself,” he chuckled a little as he slipped over to the back door to let the dog in.  Running past his owner instantly and straight to you, you knelt down to let it lick your face as you laughed.

“Hi puppy!” you greeted.  “Oh, thank you for the kisses, it’s nice to meet you!”  He calmed down a bit when you scratched behind his ears, wiggling and putting his paws up on your knees.  “What’s his name?” you asked, turning your attention to Chris who had his arms crossed and a prideful smile on his face.

“Dodger,” he informed you with a nod.

“Aw, hi Dodger,” you cooed at the pup, “I’d sit here and pet you all day, but your dad’s not paying me to play with you— apparently.”

Chris laughed a bit as you stood up, and Dodger actually took it pretty well, dashing to curl up on the nearest couch as you got back to work on the piano.  

“I’m just about halfway done,” you informed him as you started to move on to the next string, occasionally plucking the string to test that the pitch was right.

“I’ve never heard a piano plucked before,” he observed, leaning in to watch you work.

“Yeah, probably better to just stick to hitting the keys,” you smirked.

“Psh, anybody can do that,” he scoffed, “you could invent a whole new genre of music!”

"I'll leave the musical experimentation to you," you decided, "and I'll stay on this side of the action board."

"See, I didn't even know that was a part of the piano," he admitted.

"And that's why you're on that side."

You two chatted while you worked— he asked some questions about you, you asked some questions about him, classic small talk sort of stuff.  He managed to keep it interesting, though, and keep you laughing throughout the whole conversation.  It was significantly more fun than you usually had during house calls like this, and instead of distracting you it actually seemed to help you keep your focus.  It was easier to talk to him when you could keep your eyes on the strings anyways: looking right at him was sort of overwhelming.

With the last string adjusted, you slipped the tuning hammer into your back pocket and dusted off your hands as you stepped back to admire your work.

"That's it?" he asked as he stood up from the couch, noticing the signs of completion.

"It is if it sounds good!" you smiled.  "Go ahead, take it for a spin," you suggested.  "Play something and tell me if it sounds how you want."

"Okay," he nodded, slipping around the bench and sliding onto it.  He took a breath before he placed his hands on the keys, but then suddenly stopped and set them back on his lap with a sigh as he turned to you.  "Um, it's a little weird with you watching me."

"Oh, are you not used to performance?"

"Not outside of my family and friends and stuff, no."

"I don't really have to be here for this part, as long as you're happy with it then that's fine," you shrugged, "but you know, I wanna be able to fix any issues while I'm still here—"

"No, it’s not a big deal," he shook his head quickly, "I should get over myself.  I guess it's just scary cause you've probably heard people a lot better than me play…"

"Don't worry about that," you laughed, "just play something, really, I won't judge."

He spun back to face the keys, placing his hands on them— for a second you wondered if he struggled to hit just one key at a time with those thick fingers, but you pushed that thought away quickly.

As he started to play, you found yourself focusing on the music more than the sound of the keys like you should've been.  He was good, actually, although you could hear the hesitance in the way he played.  He didn't rush as much as most people did, though; he was savoring the piece, one note at a time, and you let your eyes fall shut as he continued to play.

You broke from your trance when he suddenly stopped, repeating the phrase he'd just finished and stopping on the same note.

"Does this one sound kinda… off to you?" he asked.

"Um," you paused, "play it again?"

He poked the key with one finger a few times, and you frowned.  "I can't really tell." You stepped forward and leaned over his shoulder, caging his body in accidentally as your arms wrapped around his shoulders to fiddle with the keys in front of him.  You rested your knee on the bench beside his legs, not even realizing that it was a massive invasion of his personal space until you were already in it.

He moved his hands out of the way so you could repeat the phrase, and although you didn't hear anything wrong, you felt the key sticking.

"Oh," you mumbled to yourself, "it's the key, not the string."

"Can you fix it?" he asked looking up at you.

"Yeah, I—" you stopped in the middle of your word as you looked back at him because his face was really close, so close that his bright blue eyes were burning right through you; so close that you completely lost your train of thought.  "I can fix anything," you finished softly.

"Great," he whispered back, eyes seeming to glance down to your lips quickly before moving back up to meet your gaze.

You cleared your throat as you stepped back, giving him space again as you nervously crossed your arms.  "It's probably just something stuck under there or whatever, but I can order a replacement key if not."

"Right," he agreed with a nod, sliding to the side of the bench to give you room to fiddle with it.  You grabbed your smaller toolkit and sat beside him, starting with your flashlight to see if there was anything hiding underneath there.

Moving to peer behind the action frame, you realized it was a problem with the hammer hitting the string— or, more specifically, with the mechanism that kept the hammer balanced.  All you had to do was reach in with a long screwdriver and shift some parts around, and it seemed to be back in working order.

“Play it again?” you requested, and he slid back to the middle and started the piece over.  He grinned when he reached the part he’d stopped at before, flying through the phrase without stopping.

“Hey!  You fixed it!” he beamed.

“I’m a genius,” you shrugged, smirking a little.  He stopped playing and you found yourself a little disappointed by that, unexpectedly.  “Any other musical ailments I can magically cure for you today?”

“Unless you can make me a better sight reader, that’ll be all,” he smiled, standing up from the bench.

“Ah, if I could do that, I’d be using that power on myself.”

He shrugged; "Fair enough."

"Well, I'll leave you to it then," you announced as you put the last of your tools away and picked up your bag.  "Hope I didn't disrupt your day too much."

"You did, actually— in a good way," he grinned.  "I definitely learned a lot more than I was going to just watching TV and drinking beer."

You followed him back to the front door, which he opened for you.  "You can always give us a call if you need anything.  Um, anything piano-related, that is.  Tell the dog I said goodbye, okay?"

Chris smiled a little, softer than his normal expression.  "I'll be sure he gets the message."

As you got back in your car, you took a minute to just catch your breath for the first time since you'd gotten here.  Trying to be funny and cute and charming when all you wanna do is stutter and gawk and melt is exhausting!  As enjoyable as it was, in a certain sense, you were relieved at the idea of returning to your routine— which typically did not include super hot dudes chatting you up at work.

//

“This must be a mistake,” you shook your head as you showed the work order form to your boss, “I was at this address two weeks ago, the piano’s in perfect condition.”

“Well, he has an unlimited warranty, so either something happened since you were there last, or you fucked something up when you were there last, or he’s just determined to get his money’s worth out of us,” she explained without looking up from her computer.

You sighed and left, heading back to the same address and hoping you weren’t about to get chewed out for somehow ruining Chris’ like-new piano.

Knocking on the door, you found yourself chewing your lip as you waited for him to answer the door.  You were a little surprised when he answered in a button-up and slacks— entirely opposite to pajamas, although you sort of missed that get-up if you were being honest.

“Hey,” he greeted with a grin, stepping back to motion for you to come inside.

“Hi,” you responded awkwardly as you stepped past him.  “Is... everything alright with the piano?  I didn’t damage it, did I?”

He cleared his throat as he shut the door behind you, the size of the hallway forcing the two of you to stand slightly closer together than you would’ve personally preferred; it was hard to focus with him so close, sometimes.  “No, no, it’s not that,” he answered, “the piano’s fine, I just…” he stammered a little, starting over.  “Uh, there was something I wanted to ask you about last time, and I called the Steinway store but I couldn’t figure out how to call you specifically, so I just had to make a new tuning appointment.”

You furrowed your brow with confusion, not sure why someone else on the phone couldn’t answer whatever question he had, but decided to let him go through with his thought.  “What did you wanna ask me?”

“Uh, I just wanted to ask you… out,” he finished plainly.

You paused as you processed that.  “Out?”

“Like, I was wondering if you’d wanna… go out, with me.”

You hoped your face didn’t give away all of your shock, but at the same time, you figured it probably did.

He winced as you continued to stare at him in silence.  “I’m kind of out on a limb here,” he reminded you.

“Right, I’m sorry,” you shook your head, “um, I guess I’m just sort of surprised because you’re, like… hot, and stuff.”

“And stuff?”

“Yeah, like… nice…” you explained.

“Hot and nice?” he laughed.  “Slow down, you’ll give me an ego.”

You laughed, too, and less nervously than you expected.  Feeling the rare urge to be spontaneous, you scratched your neck as you prepared to propose an idea.  “Listen, so, this might be crazy but... I have another appointment today, at the Symphony Hall— it’s a final tune-up on the pianos and harps before this massive concerto thing and they always let me stay to watch the performance afterwards.  If you came with me, I could get you in for free.”

“Really?”

“Yeah, I mean, you probably have better things to do today—”

“I don’t,” he refuted.

“And if you just wanted to, like, get lunch some time then that would be great, I just thought I might as well invite you to hear the chamber orchestra from the best seat in the house,” you shrugged.

“The best seat?” he questioned incredulously.  “And where is that?”

“The rafters,” you laughed.

And that was how you and Chris ended up sitting on the steel catwalk suspended on the ceiling of the Boston Symphony Hall, dangling your feet over the edge as the sounds of the concerto echoed out from the stage, over the silent audience and, finally, up to you two.

The music was incredible, if a little quiet from where you were listening, and so soothing that you felt compelled to close your eyes and focus on the sound.  You were partial to the piano, as always, but the violins and cellos in harmony made your chest warm unexpectedly.  Or maybe that was from the feeling of Chris’ gaze on you, as you opened your eyes to find him looking at your face rather than the performance below.  

“What are you looking at me for?” you asked him with a nervous laugh.

“For fun,” he shrugged.

“Doesn’t seem very exciting,” you scoffed, looking back to the stage.

“Oh, it’s exciting,” he mumbled his reply as he returned his gaze to the performance as well.  

Your cheeks burned when you heard that, in spite of the fact that it was actually a bit drafty in the auditorium.  Even though your nerves were buzzing with anxiety, a rush of bravery struck you and suddenly you were leaning your head onto his shoulder.  Just the warmth of him through his shirt— hell, even the smell of his cologne— somehow managed to relax you and energize you simultaneously.  His hand gingerly slipping around your waist was even better.

After this many years of tuning pianos, it felt like you were getting yourself in tune for the first time.

[myberkeleyadventure]

Meet the family! /s

Mom: Highly narcissistic, classic asian tiger mom, never satisfied with anything. Always pushes siblings and myself more and more. Has little empathy for others. Has a loud shrieking voice. Very temperamental. Extremely money-oriented to the point that she will throw a tantrum if she sees us buying take-out. Has allowed our dog to escape the backyard multiple times. Manipulative. Does not respect privacy or medicine. Thinks “drinking water” can clear up autoimmune disorders. Verbally and physically abusive.

Dad: Extremely passive and uncommunicative. Slightly sexist attitudes, expecting females to cook, clean, and take care of him, but has improved a lot. Is not handy with repairs or fixes and usually ends up doing a half-assed job of it and makes the home lose value (i.e. our bathroom cabinets have ugly nails seen from the exterior, our shower faucets have broken pressure after he tried to fix the leaky aspect, our sink always floods every week because he won’t admit we need a plumber, etc). Also can be verbally and physically abusive but not nearly to extent of mom. Insecure about money. Very simple-minded. 

Older sister: Successful but a mini version of “Mom”. Can be very temperamental, moody, and hot and cold. Currently married and expecting their firstborn this month. Was usually the main recipient of my parent’s abuse growing up and ironically (or for that reason?), tries to forget the harmful past of our parents and family dynamic and selectively remembers the “good” parts only. Trying too hard to “revitalize” our asian traditions without any reciprocity from the family, who is disinterested and tbh should not be kept together for long periods because we’re toxic to each other. Seemingly has little connections/friends and seems lonely, a bit co-dependent on other people’s interactions.

Younger sister: Lazy, unambitious, needs her hand held for everything. Extremely co-dependent. The more artistic, creative sibling of the three of us. Likely has mild depression. Needs to mature more, too sheltered. After my older sister left, my younger sister became the main recipient of my parents’ abuse. Both sisters are fiery and hot-tempered, and clash with parents.

Me: Suffers from anxiety, and as a result often detaches myself from most situations and most people. Commitment-phobic because of parents’ relationship, but once attached to someone, likes the safety and security. Would rather be single than be in the wrong relationship (EXHIBIT A: MY PARENTS’ RELATIONSHIP). Yet ironically would stupidly go back to my exes than starting fresh. Have become more private about my life, which has helped my anxiety a LOT (also see “detached”). Too prideful of accomplishments, like school names and internships, like a dumb work rat in this cog of a machine. Can be petty and hold grudges, which is not great.

[type40thiefoflight]

Things I wish had/hadn’t happened over the course of the series, Part 2 (Part 1):

Had:

1. Scoobynatural should have been a Gabriel episode. It’s exactly the kind of stunt he’d pull, just look at Changing Channels.

2. Becky and her family confirmed as being among the people Jack un-snapped

3.. Sam keeping his powers after killing Lilith

4. Sam becoming the new Bobby and using the MOL bunker as a research hub, safe-house, or stop-over point for hunters

5. Sam finding out Ketch sicced the hell hound on Eileen And going “Sam Freakin’ Winchester” on him

6. Wayward Sisters spinoff

7. Brink back the rock/paper/scissors and prank wars

8.  Dean rescues Cas but he has to leave his grace behind since that’s what gives the Empty its hold on him as an angel. It’s a sacrifice Cas is more than happy to make. Dean quits hunting and they move into a house by a lake so Dean can go fishing whenever he wants. He opens a repair shop specializing in classic cars. The entire front yard is a salvage yard with a metal shed that’s got a lift and a pit for car repairs. The backyard is home to Cas’ bee boxes and their vegetable garden that Dean uses for burger toppings and pies. Cas’ artisanal honey and Dean’s pies are very popular at the local farmer’s market.

This is absolutely meant to be a parallel to Cain retiring and keeping bees.

Hadn’t:

1. That stupid fight with Dean and Lucifer where they flew around like Peter Pan

2. That stupid “fight” between Michael and Lucifer in 15x19 where they hurled grace balls (?) at each other

3. Billie suddenly being the bad guy. We already had Chuck wanting to delete his stories; a secondary antagonist wasn’t necessary. There was no lead-up to her desire to put everyone back and take over.

4. Jack becoming God and staying fused with Amara. He keeps the powers, but doesn’t assume the responsibility. Him simply existing as the Light to Amara’s Dark is more than enough to restore balance once he releases her. She wasn’t using her power as the Darkness to influence anything and up until he got fed up with his worlds, Chuck hadn’t used his power as God to influence anything since the Winchester Gospels. There was no proof that Jack had to act as God in order to keep the balance.

5. Crowley should have been a fallen angel, not the son of a witch. He’s the demon counterpart to Balthazar: collecting celestial, infernal, and obscure artifacts, hiding from his superiors, and just having fun on Earth. He can fluently speak Enochian, which in-show is only spoken by angels. He just happens to have an angel blade, know what it is and that it can kill angels, and come up with the absolutely brilliant idea of melting them down into bullets so he doesn’t have to hide an obviously celestial weapon. The strongest piece of evidence for Crowley being an angel: How was he able to withstand possessing Sam at the same time as Gadreel? Being directly exposed to his grace should have smote him on the spot.