#automated hot tub

[daytonmorgan]

Poolhouse in Vancouver Huge elegant backyard concrete pool house photo

[fangirloffuturepast]

Vancouver Traditional Pool Huge elegant backyard concrete pool house photo

[empresa-journal]

Can the Perpetual Protocol (PERP) make money from Automated Arbitrage?

They claim the Perpetual Protocol (PERP) can make money from automated arbitrage. Moreover, they claim Perpetual users can earn a share of protocol revenue in USD Coin (USDC) stablecoins. Hence, they claim the Perpetual Protocol pays stakers with fiat currency, US Dollars. To explain, USD Coin is a stablecoin that pays with US Dollars they hold in BlackRock (BLK) and BNYMellon (BK) trust…

[beeandpupcat]

Infinity - Modern Pool

[thekeeperof-thefandoms]

Would they build a Minecraft cottage with you?

Hazbin addition

Alastor

Probably not in canon. If you did manage to get him to play, he has no idea how computers work. He would not know anything about Minecraft and die a lot unless you were in creative mode.

Does think the idea is cute and will help you plan and design the cottage and farm. Enjoys the coziness. Essentially manages you. Probably stays in the house all the time once it's built decorating, cooking, organizing.

Minecraft Housewife.

Vox

Fuck the cottage. Man built an entire castle with redstone doors, trapdoors, hidden rooms, hot tubs, a full aquarium. Has an automated farm and a full enchanting room and library.

He spends more time building his perfect automates fortress than playing with you.

Congrats by the way, your his grunt worker now. He needs more ore, more diamond, more lapis, go get it for him. He's gonna build a nether portal while you're gone.

Updates it all the time with new stuff. Nether quarts pillars and stairs. Then purrpurr ones. Literally, whatever is the new rarest thing he wants all over the place.

But your Minecraft beds are together and you have all the best gear.

Lucifer

No idea what Minecraft is but wants to spend time with you. Genuinely has fun with it and does help you build your cottage.

You guys have a cute little farmhouse. He looked up building guides to make decorative roofs, wells, a windmill. Just cutesy things to add to your farm.

Helps you gather supplies and tend the animals. Will cry if one of them accidentally dies. Has definitely named them after his family. Like the cat that's permanently in your room named Lily or a bunny named Charlie.

Shows off his Minecraft house and pets to the entire hotel.

Angel Dust

Says he will, has ADHD moment, gets distracted, winds up in the Netherworld.

Literally tries so hard but is physically incapable of finishing anything.

Messes with your stuff sometimes just for funsies.

You have fun though.

BONUS!!

Valentino

Can barely see the screen. Doesn't really care about the game. Leaves dick shaped block towers everywhere.

Gets frustrated easily and purposefully destroys things.

Absolutely would not let you put your Minecraft bed next to his.

Husk

Wouldn't play. He likes watching you play, though, and will compliment your house and farm.

He's not big on video games but enjoys being near you and watching you have fun. He may help you in boss fights but you gotta show him the controls first. Is oddly good at combat in most games.

[bean-bean2000]

The Hacker - Part 2

Pairings: Bucky x Reader

Status: Ongoing

All feedback is very welcome and appreciated!

Warnings: Mentions of violence, guns/missiles, mentions of death, swearing, angst.

Part 1 here

Series masterlist

———————————————————————————

You gasp loudly as you wake up and shoot up straight from the bed. You start to panic, not recognizing your surroundings until it all comes flooding back.

You’re not an Avenger, you’re not a prisoner, but you’re not free either.

You groan as you get up and take in your surroundings. The room is larger than your entire kitchen. There’s a desk on the other side of the room, facing the large window overlooking downtown New York City. The view was breathtaking, the city buzzing with civilians going about their days. On your right there’s a connecting private bathroom. It’s white with gold accents and marbled counter tops. The floors can be heated along with the towel rack so you can be enveloped in warmth after a long shower. Everything is automated, the shower had bluetooth speakers so you can listen to music while showering, the sink and toilet are voice controlled with way too many settings. On the other end of the bathroom is a vanity with a large makeup counter and a ring light mirror. In the corner there’s a large gold bathtub with jacuzzi settings with a TV mounted in front of it and a large table across the tub for snacks and drinks. The lights can be dimmed for ambience and ultimate relaxation. In short - it was an absolutely luxurious bathroom fit for the richest of the rich.

Shaking away your awe of the entire room, you take a long hot shower to release the tension from the previous night. You’re lost in your thoughts, enjoying the moment you have for yourself to breathe and process the situation. You sigh contentedly, wishing you could stay there forever.

“Y/N please—”

You scream and turn off the shower. Startled and searching for the source of the voice.

- “ Jesus Christ, what the fuck?! Hello??”

- “Apologies Y/N, I’m FRIDAY. Tony Stark and the others await your presence in the kitchen.”

- “Ummm okay….”

You shake your head with a scoff and wrap the warm towel around your body as you walk across the heated floors to your bedroom. You quickly change into some clothes found in the dresser and head to the kitchen.

As you open your door you realize you have no idea how to get to the kitchen from here. The compound is huge. Just as you were about to start aimlessly walking, a light illuminates the floor in a single line with an arrow, indicating the path to follow.

“Thank you FRIDAY!” you say out loud. You’re in disbelief as you realize that FRIDAY read your body language and emotions and made a conscious decision on its own to create a path to follow to your destination.

“This is insane. I was dragged here yesterday. We already made a deal, what could they possibly want from me already?! Okay Y/N, breathe and think this through. Time to make a game-plan: I have to look as strong and intimidating as possible. I will not let them push me around or think that they can just tell me what to do. Keep your head held high and a stoic face. Never let them know what you’re thinking. That’s how you’ll get through this. Keep your emotions to yourself, do not share and make connections. You’re on your own. You have always been on your own. Stay focused. You can do this. You can depend on and trust nobody but yourself.” You think to yourself.

You round the corner and hear loud chatter from the group gathered around the kitchen table. As you enter the room the chatter immediately stops and they all turn to look at you.

You stand tall, head held high just like you had promised yourself you would do, seconds ago.

“We decided to test your abilities with your first mission. Today.” says Steve, staring you in the eyes trying to analyze your reaction and body language as a response to his statement.

You smirk “There is no challenge I can’t beat.”

Maintaining your cool composure, you stare back at the group when your eyes meet with Bucky’s. His usual grumpy stoic face is donning a smirk with a glint in his eyes.

You quickly look away and clear your throat “Let’s debrief the mission.”

———————————————————————————

Tony leads you into your office he had mentioned the previous day. It was an outstanding and immense room; more like an entire floor designated for you and your work. You examined it in awe. The floor was a sleek marble tile with purple, black and white accented walls. There were floor to ceiling windows overlooking New York City with anti-reflective blinds that adjust to the sunlight to avoid spying threats and glares on your screens. There’s a wide and large monitor spanning across the entire desk with an ergonomic chair lined with LED lights providing ultimate comfort with an expansive screen for maximum efficiency. The ceiling was lined with LED lights which colours could be changed through FRIDAY, allowing the possibility of switching from a dark room to a sunlit room.

You do a double take and a a huge neon sign on the wall catches your attention:

Cyberpunk

You stare at Tony “Cyberpunk? really?”

“What? You’re a computer whiz hacker. So I came up with your team nickname. I thought it suited you very well. You’re a cyber nerd and you’re a punk. Very fitting in my opinion.” Tony replies sarcastically.

You ignore his comment and turn around facing your new set up, not wanting him to notice that you secretly love the nickname. You agreed it was very fitting but annoyed you hadn’t come up with yourself before.

“Alright, get yourself set up. The mission starts in 10, be ready and do your job, we’re counting on you.” Tony says and walks away.

You sigh and sit on the desk chair. You set yourself up and easily navigate through the new system in preparation for the mission ahead. You’re responsible for hacking into the Hydra building, disengaging their security cameras and alarms, and for cutting the power at the end for the team to have an advantage over the enemy with night-vision goggles. This was going to be a breeze.

You’re snapped out of your thoughts when you hear Steve calling you over the coms

“Y/N? Are you ready? We’re 30 seconds out.”

“Loud and clear Cap. Disengaging enemy cameras, alarms and sensors now. Proceed to breach enemy lines in 5 seconds. over and out.” you reply cooly.

“Nobody says over and out Y/N. You watch too many movies.” Bucky chuckles.

“Nobody asked for your opinion Barnes.” you snap.

“Tony is right, you are a Cyberpunk.”

You groan at the comment. Why is this infuriating you so much? You didn’t care when Tony called you that. Why does it bother you when Bucky did?

You’re snapped out of your thoughts when you hear Steve yell to you over the coms:

“AMBUSH AMBUSH RUN RUN RUN!”

Your heart starts pounding in your chest as you watch the team sprinting between rooms and dodging bullets. You realize you’re the only one who can help them, but you were specifically told not to do anything except what was discussed in the mission debrief: Disengage the cameras and alarms, and cut the power. Your leg is bouncing on the ball of your foot as you see the team struggling to get out from Hydras trap.

“Fuck it. I can’t sit here and do nothing.” You say to yourself out loud.

You go through the Hydra building’s system and locate the area where the team is being held up. You see a security option pop up on your screen that makes you smile ear to ear. Bingo.

You open your coms “Hey! When i scream hit the floor, you drop to the floor as low as you can and grab whatever cover you can find. Don’t ask questions just do it!”

Before anybody can retort and convince you to stop, you engage the hidden target-lock rifles and automatic guns hidden in the walls and aim them at the Hydra agents.

“HIT THE FLOOR! HIT THE FLOOR!” you scream over the coms.

You watch the entire team on your screens drop to the floor as you press Enter on your keyboard. You watch as every Hydra agent falls to the floor, lifeless. Unable to defend themselves against the sneak attack from their own supposed defence systems.

As you’re about to give the team the all clear, you see another ambush approaching. Switching camera locations, you lock on target and use the Hydra missile to annihilate the remaining Hydra soldiers.

“All clear.” you say stoically over the coms. Smirking to yourself. You know this will either really impress them or really screw you over.

You watch as the entire team gets up and examines their surroundings. Bullet holes everywhere, Hydra soldiers defeated in a single push of a button.

The team assembles on the quinjet and you watch them fly off.

Awaiting their return on the landing pad, you feel your heart thrumming in your chest. You watch the team exit the quinjet. You start to smile and wave when you see Steve stalking towards you, angrily

“What was that? We did not plan that! You have no right to directly disobey orders and do what you want!”

“You were ambushed! I wasn’t going to watch you all possibly die as Hydra was closing in on you!”

“We had it under control!”

“Yeah right. So you knew that there was a second ambush team waiting for you outside?”

Steve stares at you, no response.

“That’s what i thought! I saved your asses by gunning them down with their own security artillery and launched a missile at the second ambush! You’re welcome for saving your life!”

“I trusted you could follow orders! You had one job! How can we trust you now?!”

“TRUST ME?! YOU KIDNAPPED ME AND FORCED ME INTO A GLAMORIZED PRISON CONTRACT! AND I STILL DECIDED TO SAVE YOUR FUCKING LIVES! I COULD HAVE WATCHED YOU ALL DIE AND LAUGHED BECAUSE I WOULD BE OUT OF THE CONTRACT AND FREE. BUT I DIDN’T. AND THIS IS WHAT I GET IN RETURN?!”

At this point, you lost your cool. You broke your promise to yourself to keep your emotions out of this. Your cheeks are red as your anger boils within you.

Steve is clenching his jaw and glaring at you with an intense anger. Natasha approaches Steve and places a hand on his shoulder.

“Steve… she’s right. She saved us. There was no way we were getting out of there.”

Steve huffs and stomps away. The rest of the team follows and throws you sympathetic looks but say nothing.

Cowards. All of them. Sheep.

Bucky stops in front of you and crosses his arms across his broad chest.

“Nice work Cyberpunk.” he winks and walks away.

You stand there alone and confused. You manage to force yourself back inside and you storm to your office. It is now your safe haven, your space; like the one you used to have in your tiny basement. You slam the door shut and lock it.

You don’t want to see any of them. Especially Steve. It’s your first day and you’re already extremely frustrated.

I am not a puppet. I will not just take orders and follow them blindly and stupidly. I reacted to the situation and adapted. I save their lives and I get yelled at for it. Who do they think I am? I will not be controlled. I am my own person and I will make sure they know that.

You decide you will retaliate in the best way you can. You hack into FRIDAY and pull up the controls to Steve’s room. You scheduled an alarm to go off every 15 minutes with red lights blaring in his room. You add clown music for that extra special effect you love so much.

That’ll show him that I will not be pushed around and treated like a puppet. I may not be a super soldier but I am a Cyberpunk.

You smirk to yourself as you walk out of your office and retire to your bedroom, excited for what the morning will bring.

Part 3

[winged-void]

Hi I'd like to apply for the position of maid? I'm good at organizing, automation, stacking things, and sleeping for extended periods of time. I think my biggest selling point is my frail and generally pathetic aura

Review:

Pathetic and frail maids are welcome, Marion needs a steady diet. I think the kitchen will be a good place for you.

Take this leek and go sit in our lovely hot tub.

Ate/10

[miniscrew-anon]

I got sucked into playing Oxygen Not Included again and now it’s living rent free in my brain like the boys. Enjoy these extremely specific headcanons on them playing base building/resource management/colony sim games.

Sky - He plays like a normal person. Does his best to make his base thrive but makes all the beginner mistakes. His second attempt is way way better but nothing crazy. Never gets too deep into the mechanics. Only plays for a few hours and eventually stops because someone starts backseat playing.

Wild - Chaos. His base is somehow drowning, on fire, in the middle of a drought and freezing. All at once. Literally nothing is working and his little guys are all dying to death. His second attempt is not any better. Nor is his third. He’s not good at micromanaging and constantly tries to build things that are way too big and wayyyy too resource heavy and it ends up killing him. He was super into building a really cool hot tub/massage room and neglected to make sure his guys have oxygen. But he’s having fun so it’s all good

Champion - Is on top of everything. Reads the entire in-game encyclopedia before he even starts the game so he knows everything he needs to. His base is very spartan but at least nothings on fire. Enjoys the challenge of planning ahead and creative problem solving.

Twilight - Gets way too invested in the little creatures. Creates a whole big ranch and makes the place really, really nice for his pets. His people are vegan and he lets his base starve to death because he can’t bring himself to eat his animals. But also mourns the loss of every one of his people. It’s a heartbreaking game for Twilight. He prefers games when he can pet the animals, not eat them.

Warriors - Base building isn’t his preferred genre but he gives it a try anyway. Aesthetics before anything is his playstyle. His base works well enough but he does surrender some efficiency to make it pretty. Dresses up all his little guys and gives them snazzy clothes. But he loses interest pretty fast and goes to bother Sky.

Hyrule - His base is a mess of hallways and ladders. No real central area because he just want to expand and see what’s out there. Is a real explorer. He ends up accidentally opening up his base to the cold vacuum of space and kills everyone.

Legend - Hates that he’s constantly running out of resources. If it’s not air then it’s water, and if it’s not water it’s food, and if it’s not food it’s space, and if it’s not space it’s fucking air again! He curses up a storm every time something goes wrong. Which is all the time.

Four - Spreadsheets. Lots and lots of spreadsheets. Sixty hours in and his base is ten miles long with a ridiculously convoluted yet effective HVAC system that abuses every game mechanic to be self sustaining. Runs on things like giving his base contaminated food to give them food poisoning to make them vomit so he can refine that vomit back into clean water to offset the moisture entropy. A monster of efficiency. Four loves building games where there are calculable data sets and realistic physics. Can and will play this game forever is no one stops him.

Wind - He streams it and names his colony members after viewers. Uses console commands to do crazy things like spawn in 100 colonists and summons meteor showers to spice things up. He’s pretty decent and he actually learns to to use the convoluted automation mechanics. Also mods. Lots and lots of mods.

Time - His base dies immediately. This old man never got more advanced than Pong and so when he is confronted with a game in which the density and weight of different gasses is important he can’t handle it. He accidentally digs down and his whole colony suffocates on carbon dioxide within 5 minutes. He puts the game down and never plays again.

Dark - Only plays for a bit before he stops. Even though it’s just simulation he doesn’t enjoy the strange sense of claustrophobia it gives him. He’ll happily watch Twi play it though.

Shadow - He logs into Fours game and disconnects one (1) wire somewhere in the base.

[poolsmedia]

Top 5 Swimming Pool Trends Transforming Backyards in 2024

Are you considering adding a swimming pool to your backyard oasis or updating your existing pool? Stay ahead of the curve with these top swimming pool trends for 2024. At POOLS MEDIA, we've compiled the most innovative and sought-after features that are making waves in pool design and functionality.

1. Smart Pool Technology

In 2024, smart home technology has dived headfirst into pool management. Automated systems now allow you to control everything from water temperature to chemical balance with a tap on your smartphone. These intelligent pools not only save time and energy but also ensure optimal swimming conditions year-round.

Key features:

Remote water quality monitoring

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2. Natural Swimming Pools

Eco-conscious homeowners are increasingly opting for natural swimming pools. These chemical-free alternatives use plants and biological filters to keep the water clean, creating a harmonious blend with the surrounding landscape.

Benefits:

Reduced environmental impact

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Unique, pond-like aesthetic

3. Infinity Edges for Breathtaking Views

Infinity pools continue to be a top trend, especially for properties with scenic views. The vanishing edge creates a stunning visual effect, making your pool appear to merge with the horizon.

Popular applications:

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4. Multifunctional Pool Designs

Modern pools are no longer just for swimming. In 2024, we're seeing a rise in multifunctional pool designs that incorporate various lifestyle elements.

Trending features:

Swim-up bars for entertaining

Built-in hot tubs for relaxation

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5. LED Lighting for Nighttime Ambiance

Transform your pool into a nighttime wonderland with advanced LED lighting systems. These energy-efficient options offer a rainbow of colours and programmable light shows, extending your pools usability well into the evening hours.

Popular lighting effects:

Color-changing mood lighting

Underwater light shows

Illuminated water features

Conclusion

Whether you're planning a new pool installation or looking to upgrade your existing one, these trends offer exciting possibilities to enhance your backyard retreat. At POOLS MEDIA, we're committed to bringing you the latest in pool innovation and design. Dive into these trends and make a splash with your dream pool in 2024! Ready to transform your backyard? Contact a local pool professional to discuss how these trends can be incorporated into your unique space. And don't forget to check back with POOLS MEDIA for more expert advice and inspiration for all your swimming pool needs!

[missamyrisa2]

How would you and your crew at the factory ticklegasm a Giant?

By deploying my newly minted pop-up tickle factory of course~! But first we need to get that giggly giant restrained and for that we're gonna need my specialized aerial ticklers which are absolutely not a total ripoff of the omni directional mobility gear from Attack on Titan~ they'll zip around our big ticklish friend with their feather swords and blush clubs to barrage the hot spots which also can hinder locomotion~ the underarms, collar, sides, backs of the knees, Achilles tendons, and small of the back. With their puffy fluffy weapons swinging, the giant will lose their momentum and start to stumble.

That's where my engineers will start deploying the factory. It's a bit like those automated car washes, with a long series of arches springing up from circular pads on the ground which begin connecting by thick dark sleeves to form our factory line. The aerial ticklers will begin pummeling from each side to get the giant lined up as they skid across the ground. Whether we get them in feet first or head first, the entryway to the factory is equipped with grasping soft giant hands to snatch and grab. While the giant is being dragged inwards, the interior surface of the factor is going to be lubricated with massage oils by our interior workers.

As the giant is gliding down surface, they'll begin spraying merrily to coat all that skin and make it so shiny and sensitive. Since the giant will not be restrained yet the idea is to keep them moving and disoriented. Again like a car wash, the first chambers of the pop up factory are filled with curtain after curtain of swishing soft materials and drapey tendrils, with the machinery moving them back and forth and twirling about over the giant's shoulders, underarms, down the ribs and over the belly and chest. The feet will be constantly buffed by our interior aerial workers who will follow the wiggly toes and wrinkly soles closely with their whirling buzzing tools.

Thoroughly buffeted by the first round, the giant will find themselves sliding into the tub which has been dug during the initial phase. This warm cleansing bath will wear down the resistance of even the most feisty guest through a massive array of water jets aimed to target all the sensitive zones on their lower body ~ while the aquatic workers zip around in their wetsuits and long scrubby brushes to get into the inner thighs, between the huge tush cheeks, under the toes, and of course into the royal area. While this is happening, I will pay a visit from above and float about with my taunting factory survey for how they would rate our services ~ and giving the most annoying teasing tickles with my duster wand under their nose and along the ears and under the chin~

The cleansed giggly giant will be slip out from the tub and brought next to our processing and packing center. The factory will be taking plenty of scans and sensitivity samples at this time with its tingle beams, both for our data and to distract so that my packaging workers can line up their wrapping cannons and engage the padded clamps for the giant's wrists and ankles. The factory will fill with the sounds of packing material being spun ~ the clamps will rotate them like a spit while layer after layer of shiny wrapping is applied.

With our big package thoroughly prepared, the giant will be reeled into the prep room so that my precision ticklers can begin creating hot spot incisions in the bondage to expose those giant hot spots we gathered from the factory's data. Cutting pinpoint slits under the arms and across the tummy and thighs and chest over the huge royal buttons and naturally the royal area, the giant will be ready for the final chamber.

For all the hard work, the teams will be enjoying from the observation deck as our product is placed and the spider-like tickle tease engine can descend from above and begin deploying its spinning vibrating tingle tips to all those carefully exposed hot zones. They're a bit like scalp massagers, except glowing brightly and oversized to stimulate a giant's skin to giggly bits. We'll enjoy the process of tickling teasing our guest to gigglemoaning madness, and occasionally strap on a mobility suit to fly down and add a little more hands on stimulation ~ particularly in the royal area, where the machine will have two sets of buzzing nubs spread along taking turns in a calculated sequence but will allow us to reach in and give those tiny rubbies or gentle paintbrushes with oil to realllly make the factory quake.

And this is absolutely not a single ticklegasm operation. For all the work and effort it takes to snare, process, and package a giant we will definitely be milking them for soo many of those oversized gigglecums ~<3

[languajix]

There’s a knock-knock-knock! at your cabin door. Luckily, whomever knocked waits for you to answer, so the cabin’s automated defenses don’t get him. Outside, you see a very familiar box turtle, shuffling nervously with something hidden behind his back. He brightens when you open the door.

“Mike! Nibbles! Hi!” Smokey greets, smiling up at you. He pulls one hand out to wave at the nibbles, then returns his attention to you. “I’m glad you’re here! I have something for you. Oh! And the nibbles, if they’re allowed.”

From behind his back, he pulls out a plate from the mess hall. On it lies 4 little cupcakes, each topped with colorful buttercream and sprinkles. “I don’t know if they’re allowed to have sugar,” Smokey admits. He pauses, then adds on, “Or if Angie is even old enough to eat cake.” He shrugs. “Honestly I figured if they can’t have them, you’ll be able to. Oh! And you have your own present too, one sec-” Holding the plate with one hand, Smokey carefully pulls something out of his shell. He shifts on his feet nervously, but smiles as he offers it up to you.

It’s a very carefully constructed arts and craft. On a laminated piece of paper is a colorful drawing depicting you, the nibbles, and Smokey in your cabin’s bathroom. The nibbles are all in a full tub, splashing happily and sending water everywhere. Bright pink bubbles adorn the page, highlighted with glitter as a nod to the incident that led to the bath time, and Mike’s mask is crafted with a little carefully cut piece of bright craft paper. Smokey’s mask is similar, but where Mike’s is crisp, clean cuts, Smokey’s is a little jagged with holes with his tails and singed just like it is in real life. Around the artwork is a frame of colorful popsicle sticks - some of which still have jokes visibly printed on them - held together with hot glue and decorated with fun stickers.

“It’s been really fun hanging out with you. It’s been fun hanging out with everyone, but you’re one of the first people I met and you always kept a really cool head when I probably didn’t deserve it-” Yeah, his brothers definitely would’ve killed him for the glitter bomb. Well. Specifically Donnie. And April. April definitely would’ve killed Smokey. “-and when things got kinda scary-” The crystals appearing. The bugs. The flooding. The flooding had been particularly scary for Smokey, even though it had turned out to be harmless. “-and hard.” The homesickness had been…rough.

Ugh, this was harder than he anticipated. He cleared his throat before starting again. “Anyways, uh, I know everyone is going home soon and I dunno what’ll happen, but I made this to remember me by. And as a thank you? It was kinda terrifying showing up here, not gonna lie, but you made it a lot less scary.” Try as he might, the thirteen year old on your doorstep sniffled, eyes shining. He’d rub them, to get rid of the gathering tears, but both of his hands were currently occupied with presents. He was happy to go home, he missed his family, but… “I’m gonna miss you a lot, Mike.”

@tmnt-fandom-family-reunion

"Thanks, Smokey. This art? A masterpiece. Gonna be fist-fighting the Louvre for it, and I'll win, because I love it the most." The present was incredibly thoughtful. In fact, it was one of the most thoughtful and personal things Mike had been gifted throughout the Reunion, and he took it gently. He'd have to keep it out of prying nephew hands, stow it away in his duffel before they could cover it with drool or accidentally crease it. He'd hang it up on the wall next to his bunk, but. Well.

He'd hang it up on the wall in his bedroom, at least.

At home.

Where he was going.

And he'd never see Smokey again.

"Actually," Mike said, "I had something for you, too." He rummaged around in his duffel and pulled out a very large bandana, something loose and breathable that Smokey could wear around his neck, as a skirt, over his shoulders, whatever. He'd tie dyed it orange and yellow, like Smokey's markings, like Smokey's shell. If Smokey wanted to hang it up on his wall, or throw it over the back of a chair or something, that would be fine with Mike. He wasn't the fabric police.

He took the cupcakes, then, too, and tried to muster up a smile. "I think Angie might be a little young, but I'm sure the others are gonna love these." He went to go set them down on the end of his bed, but little heads started popping up from the bedside nest with little grabby hands, and before he could blink Lee was trying to crawl out towards them, eyes on his prize. He swiped the nibbles, blanket nest and all, into his arm and heaved them up, walking back over towards Smokey. "No you don't, kiddos, we're saying goodbye first."

He blinked back tears. His voice got soft, no matter how much he tried to keep it steady. "You were one of my first friends, too, Smokey. When I was looking for Dee, you dropped everything to help me look for him, and for that I can't thank you enough. You're a great kid, with a great heart. I'm gonna miss you too. You and Sparky; being at camp, hanging with the both of you, has been more fun than I've had in a long time."

El and Angie picked up on the melancholy they were both feeling; Angie pat Mike clumsily on the wrist, while El leaned forward, looking for a hug from Smokey.

Dee, seeing a familiar face, poked his head out of the blanket scrunch that Mike was holding and blinked slowly, which Mike was going to interpret as a good thing. A greeting, maybe. Lee chirped and wiggled his own hello.

"Say goodbye, guys," Mike tells them softly, smiling at Smokey in a way that he hoped was comforting.

@tmnt-fandom-family-reunion

[simstryingtheirbestok]

How is this game still surprising me after all these years?

I would have sworn, before this, that either she or Carlos had Fireproof Homestead, but apparently not?

It started after Undine got home from dinner at the bistro, when she automously chose to sculpt with metal.

The twins were out at the Summer Festival.

Carlos was out earning the scorn of his neighbors, i.e. delivering Sing-a-Grams in the guise of Carlos Midnight.

(You can tell he's become inured to this sort of reaction, and I love that for him.)

There was no one at home to put Undine out, and the family owns neither a swimming pool nor a hot tub.

Desperate, I tried the sprinklers at the gardening station.

They didn't help at all.

Supposedly, you can direct Sims to take a shower to put themselves out--but y'all, it's been so long, I mean so so so so long, since I had a Sim on fire, that I made the mistake of clicking on one of the bathtub-only tubs instead. That gave me no options besides nraas.

With the clock running out, I canceled Carlos' next SAG engagement and sent him home to extinguish his bride. He was closer to the house than the twins were--if you play in Hidden Springs with Seasons installed, then you know that the Summer Festival is held at the Beryl Forest park, way way WAY across town from where most of the community lots are.

He didn't make it in time.

[hazelenergy]

💭!

//for clarification purposes, TOMMY in this series of dialogue refers to Tommy Martin, not Tommy Baker (duskbornbaker). This is a snip from Hazel's first night as a thinblood, from her Atlanta chronicle.

Hazel carries the clothing into the bathroom and turns on the hot water. She showers quickly, but spends most of the time scrubbing blood and mud off her hands. When she finished, she curls to the bottom of the tub, letting the water fall onto her as she cradles herself. 

HAZEL: [thinking aloud] It’s almost over. It’s almost over.

She dresses. She gathers her dirty clothing and returns downstairs. She finds a plastic bag to place them in and returns to the computer. The messages tab is open to Lisa Nuñez. Her previous message is still unread. 

HAZEL: [begins typing] Some weird shit has happened in the last twelve hours. I’m okay but just be ready for a weird ass story later on. 

TOMMY re-enters the house.

TOMMY: Uh hi. You weren’t wearing that when I left, right?

HAZEL: No. Solomon has the guest room upstairs. There were some clothes up there. 

TOMMY: Ah. [pause] How can you trust him so easily?

HAZEL: Trust who?

TOMMY: Solomon. Or Big Mike.

HAZEL: I mean...I don’t fully. But the man did offer his house and hospitality. 

TOMMY: He didn’t even bother with the cops! He had his phone working the entire time. He could’ve called 911 or something.

HAZEL: And how do you think that would have gone? We would have been arrested and questioned for murder. 

TOMMY: And then found innocent! [HAZEL glares at him. He pauses] Hopefully!

HAZEL: I don’t know your life but I know cops just bring trouble.

TOMMY: Fine. But you don’t at all think there will be trouble regardless? Something happened to us down there. They’re both acting strangely calm through the entire thing! And you too! You’re acting so okay with all of this! Are you okay with this?

HAZEL: ...Do you want my helpful or honest answer?

TOMMY: Honest!

HAZEL: No I’m not fucking okay with this. I’m sincerely hoping I have relapsed and am high as a fucking kite in a disgusting alley. None of you are here. None of this has happened. This is all just some insane drug induced coma dream. And I will have my friend take me back to get clean and shell out what little money I have for narcan and therapy. 

TOMMY: Oh jesus...what is...what is the helpful answer?

HAZEL: Screaming in a murder basement wouldn’t have done anyone any good. Staying calm and figuring a way out, putting the pieces together, and recollecting what happened is going to be the best thing we can do. Solomon got the cab for us. He didn’t have to. He allowed us to use his tech and guest shower. He didn’t have to. I just hope I can repay him sometime tonight. 

TOMMY: Hazel...I don’t think you are high right now. All of this is happening. 

HAZEL: I never said I think I am. I said I hope I am. [pause] So what did you do? You said you made your way somewhere?

TOMMY: I walked to my place…but only made it halfway before I turned around. 

HAZEL: Why’d you stop?

TOMMY: I uh...just got thinking and.. I...uh

The sound of the automated garage door clangs. BIG MIKE and SOLOMON can be heard talking.

TOMMY: Oh, they’re back. [He begins to walk to the garage interior door]

HAZEL: Don’t go in the garage.

TOMMY: Why not?

HAZEL: You won’t like what you see. 

TOMMY: What are you talking about-- [He turns the door knob and spots BIG MIKE and SOLOMON unrolling the carpet corpse.] YOU GOT THE BODY?!

BIG MIKE: It’s okay. Solomon wanted to get it.

SOLOMON: Tommy, it’s okay. I’m gonna watch over it, he deserves to be mourned properly.

TOMMY: [He waves his hands incredulously and stammers at a loss for words. Beat.] Hazel! This is exactly what I mean.

HAZEL: I said don’t open the garage door.

[ryanhillgroup]

COMING SOON: 4S241 Meadow Road, Naperville, IL 60563

Experience the Elegance of 4S241 Meadow Road

Step into a home where innovation meets timeless luxury. Nestled on a 1.5-acre natural paradise in the middle of the metro area, 4S241 Meadow Road offers the serenity of country living with the convenience of being just 10 minutes from downtown Naperville. This all-brick estate is an engineering marvel, designed and built by the owner - an engineer - all with the highest quality materials and meticulous attention to detail.

A Grand Welcome

As you approach the property, a heated driveway leads you to a super-sized 4.5-car garage, complete with one stall tall enough to accommodate an RV. The arched double doors invite you into a breathtaking foyer featuring 20-foot ceilings, dual cherrywood staircases, and polished marble floors. A custom chandelier, easily adjustable for cleaning, casts shimmering light across intricate crown molding.

The Main Level: Functional Elegance

The 12-foot ceilings on the first floor create an open and airy atmosphere, complemented by formal spaces that exude warmth and sophistication. 

Brazilian Cherrywood floors anchor the formal living room and dining room, while custom millwork and window treatments add touches of elegance.

The gourmet kitchen is a chef’s dream, boasting custom Omega cabinetry, marble countertops, and a full suite of high-end appliances, including a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolf stove, and Miele coffee maker. Adjacent to the kitchen, the great room features soaring 23-foot ceilings, remote-controlled blinds, and a two-sided fireplace that connects to a cozy bar area, and a motorized custom chandelier.

A private office with built-in cabinetry offers a tranquil space for productivity, while the main floor also includes a newly painted (2022) suite with custom draperies, updated chandeliers, and pristine Persian carpets professionally cleaned in 2022.

Smart Living Features

This home is equipped with a state-of-the-art automation system controlling lighting, security cameras, video distribution, and a speaker system throughout. Wired with Cat 6 cabling, it ensures top-tier connectivity for both entertainment and work.

The Upper Level: A Personal Retreat

Ascend one of the dual staircases to discover the primary suite, a sanctuary featuring heated floors, a custom closet, and Juliette doors overlooking the great room. The ensuite bath is a spa-like haven adorned with marble surfaces, a walk-in shower, a Jacuzzi tub, and his-and-her vanities. Adding to the home’s allure, Juliette balconies grace both the primary suite and an additional bedroom, offering timeless elegance and charm.

Four additional bedrooms offer privacy and comfort, each uniquely designed with ceiling fans, recessed lighting, and bay windows. The layout includes Jack-and-Jill bathrooms and private ensuite baths, catering to both family and guests.

The bonus room above the garage is a blank canvas for your imagination—perfect for a home theater, gym, or creative studio.

The Lower Level: Endless Potential

The walk-out lower level is semi-finished, with natural light pouring through large windows. It’s already plumbed and has its own entrance from both the garage and inside the house, offering opportunities for additional living or entertainment space.

Outdoor Living

This property is a nature lover’s dream, with birds, deer, and coyotes adding to its charm. The backyard offers endless possibilities, from relaxing on the newly replaced second deck (2024) to hosting barbecues with the built-in gas grill in the garage.

Advanced Systems for Modern Living

Geothermal heating and cooling with four air handlers for optimal comfort.

Upgraded 800 AMP electrical system, allowing for powerful and reliable service.

Extensive plumbing with oversized pipes and a recirculating hot water pump for instant hot water at every tap.

Backup generator for partial home coverage and a lightning arrest system for added security.

Full home water filtration system with reverse osmosis in the kitchen.

Luxurious Touches

Custom-made wooden cabinetry, desks, and shelving throughout.

All-season grilling station in the garage with ventilation.

Persian carpets, custom-made silk draperies, chandeliers throughout the first and second floors (professionally cleaned in 2022, excluding the living and dining rooms), and custom closets in every room.

Elevator access to all three levels.

Prime Location

Located just 35 minutes from O’Hare Airport and 35 minutes from downtown Chicago, this estate balances seclusion with accessibility. Whether you’re indulging in fine dining, exploring boutique shops, or sending your children to top-rated schools, this home is ideally situated.

A masterpiece of engineering and design, 4S241 Meadow Road is more than just a home—it’s a lifestyle.

Showings allowed by appointment only. Call Listing Agent Teresa Ryan or Broker Mike Loewer today for more information at 630-718-0424. Listing courtesy of Ryan Hill Group (Century 21 Circle - Naperville).

[roshankumar7904800]

Swimming Pool Water Treatment Equipment Market

Swimming Pool Water Treatment Equipment Market Size, Share, Trends: Pentair plc Leads

Adoption of smart and energy-efficient pool water treatment systems drives market innovation.

Market Overview: 

The global Swimming Pool Water Treatment Equipment Market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.5% from 2024 to 2031. The market value is expected to increase significantly during this period. North America dominates the market, driven by a high number of residential and commercial swimming pools and increasing awareness about water hygiene. Key metrics include rising disposable income, growing health consciousness, and increasing investments in leisure and hospitality sectors.

The swimming pool water treatment equipment industry is experiencing a considerable shift towards smart and energy-efficient systems. Consumers and commercial pool operators are increasingly looking for automated methods to monitor and maintain water quality with minimal human intervention. These smart systems frequently use IoT technology, which enables remote monitoring and control via smartphone apps. Furthermore, there is an increasing emphasis on energy-saving technology, such as variable-speed pumps and LED UV disinfection systems, which can dramatically cut energy usage and running costs. For example, variable-speed pumps can save up to 90% more energy than single-speed pumps. This trend is especially prominent in areas with high energy costs and strict environmental laws.

DOWNLOAD FREE SAMPLE

Market Trends: 

The swimming pool water treatment equipment industry is experiencing a considerable shift towards smart and energy-efficient systems. Consumers and commercial pool operators are increasingly looking for automated methods to monitor and maintain water quality with minimal human intervention. These smart systems frequently use IoT technology, which enables remote monitoring and control via smartphone apps. Furthermore, there is an increasing emphasis on energy-saving technology, such as variable-speed pumps and LED UV disinfection systems, which can dramatically cut energy usage and running costs. For example, variable-speed pumps can save up to 90% more energy than single-speed pumps. This trend is especially prominent in areas with high energy costs and strict environmental laws.

Market Segmentation: 

The residential segment has emerged as the market leader in swimming pool water treatment equipment, owing to the growing trend of homeowners spending in backyard pools and outdoor living areas. This category is likely to continue its dominance during the projection period, driven by rising house ownership rates in developing nations and a growing emphasis on home remodelling and recreational amenities in established economies.

The COVID-19 epidemic has expedited this tendency, as more people indulge in home-based leisure activities. According to the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, the number of new in-ground residential pool constructions in the United States climbed by 24% in 2020 against 2019. This increase in domestic pool installations has directly impacted demand for water treatment equipment.

Furthermore, as homes become more cognisant of water quality and safety, the adoption of increasingly complex water treatment systems increases. For example, the residential pool automation market, which includes smart water treatment systems, is expected to expand at an 8.5% CAGR from 2024 to 2031. This demonstrates a significant demand among homeowners for modern, user-friendly water treatment solutions that assure safe and sanitary pool environments.

Market Key Players:

Pentair plc

Hayward Industries, Inc.

Fluidra S.A.

Culligan International Company

Swimline Corp.

Waterco Limited

Contact Us:

Name: Hari Krishna

Email us: hari.krishna@aurorawaveintellects.com

Website: https://aurorawaveintellects.com/