#bathrooms Central Coast

[centralcoastkitchens]

8 Handy Tips For Choosing A Bathroom Faucet

When upgrading or selecting a faucet with the help of a bathrooms Central Coast expert, making the right choice ensures style, functionality, and durability. There’s a variety of considerations to weigh, ranging from design to practicality.

This list details the essential tips to guide your decision-making process and help you find the perfect faucet for your lavatory.

Consider the Overall Style of the Space

A faucet should complement the room's design. Whether aiming for a modern, vintage, or industrial aesthetic, the faucet's finish and shape should align with the existing fixtures and decor. Sleek designs with minimalist features suit contemporary spaces, while ornate fixtures work well in more traditional setups. Visual consistency enhances the appeal of the entire area. Additionally, think about how the faucet will fit in with features like lighting and cabinetry to ensure a cohesive look.

Understand the Mounting Options

Faucets come in different mounting styles, including wall-mounted, deck-mounted, and freestanding varieties. Wall-mounted designs create a clean look and free up countertop space, while deck-mounted options provide versatility and ease of installation. Freestanding faucets, often used with freestanding sinks, can add a bold design statement but may require additional plumbing adjustments. Consider the available plumbing setup, countertop design, and overall practicality to determine the most suitable option for your space.

Prioritize the Right Material

Material quality directly affects longevity and performance. Opt for faucets made from durable metals like stainless steel, brass, or copper to resist corrosion and wear. Avoid cheap, low-quality materials that may develop leaks, tarnish, or lose functionality quickly. Additionally, some materials come with special coatings to enhance durability or reduce the buildup of water spots. Investing in robust materials ensures the faucet remains functional and attractive over time, even with frequent use.

Assess the Finish

The finish influences both aesthetics and maintenance. Popular choices include polished chrome, brushed nickel, matte black, and oil-rubbed bronze. While polished finishes shine brightly, they may show water spots, fingerprints, and scratches more easily. Brushed finishes, on the other hand, offer a more subtle look and are easier to maintain, making them a practical choice for busy households. Matte finishes are trendy and provide a sleek, modern vibe, while darker finishes like oil-rubbed bronze can add warmth and richness to the overall look.

Evaluate the Handle Style

Faucets come with single-handle, double-handle, or touchless options. Single-handle models are user-friendly and space-saving, making them ideal for compact setups. They are also easier to install and repair. Double-handle designs provide precise temperature control, which is especially beneficial for homes with varying water pressure. Touchless faucets are a modern solution, offering hygiene and water efficiency through sensor technology. These are particularly useful in minimising the spread of germs and conserving water, though they may require batteries or a power source.

Think About Water Flow and Efficiency

Conservation is key, so look for options that offer efficient water flow without sacrificing performance. Faucets with aerators mix air into the water stream, reducing water usage while maintaining pressure. Some faucets are designed to meet specific water-saving certifications, ensuring they adhere to conservation standards. Efficient models not only help the environment but also lower utility bills. When evaluating water flow, check for compatibility with existing plumbing to ensure optimal functionality.

Test for Ergonomics

Comfort is essential for everyday use. Choose a faucet with a spout height and reach that suits the sink's dimensions and intended tasks. For example, higher spouts accommodate larger items, making them practical for multitasking, such as filling tall containers. Shorter spouts, however, offer better control for smaller sinks. Handles should be easy to grip and operate, ensuring accessibility for all household members, including children and the elderly. Ergonomic designs enhance the user experience and prevent strain during regular use.

Factor in Installation and Maintenance

The faucet's complexity impacts both the installation process and ongoing maintenance. Some models are DIY-friendly, requiring minimal tools and skills, while others demand professional assistance due to intricate designs or unique mounting requirements. Consider ease of cleaning as well, opting for designs that minimize hard-to-reach areas where grime can accumulate. Faucets with removable aerators or accessible components simplify cleaning and maintenance, prolonging their lifespan and keeping them in top condition.

Choosing the perfect faucet involves more than selecting a visually pleasing design. By considering these tips, you’ll find an option that suits your needs, complements the space, and lasts for years to come. Make an informed decision to enjoy both practicality and style in your updated setup. With attention to detail and careful planning, your new fixture will enhance the overall function and appearance of your home.

[josephquinn23]

Effective Bathroom Mould Cleaning Services on the Central Coast: A Complete Guide

Mould growth in the bathroom is a common issue faced by homeowners, particularly in humid areas like the Central Coast. The high moisture levels in bathrooms create the perfect environment for mould to thrive, leading to unsightly black spots and potential health hazards. Fortunately, effective bathroom mould cleaning services are available on the Central Coast to help you tackle this problem and restore a safe, clean, and fresh environment to your bathroom.

Understanding the Problem of Mould in Bathrooms

Bathrooms are prone to mould because of constant moisture from showers, baths, and even sinks. If your bathroom lacks proper ventilation, it can trap humidity, creating the ideal breeding ground for mould. Over time, this moisture seeps into walls, grout, and other porous materials, leading to visible mould patches. Not only does this affect the aesthetics of your bathroom, but it can also lead to potential health risks, especially for people with respiratory issues or allergies.

Why Bathroom Mould Cleaning Is Crucial

Mould is not only a visual nuisance but can also cause significant damage to the surfaces it grows on. Over time, mould can eat away at materials such as drywall, wood, and tiles, leading to costly repairs. Moreover, the spores released by mould can contribute to respiratory problems, skin irritation, and other allergic reactions. To prevent further damage and ensure the safety and health of your home, it’s essential to address bathroom mould problems promptly.

The Benefits of Professional Bathroom Mould Cleaning on the Central Coast

While there are several DIY methods for cleaning mould, hiring professionals for bathroom mould cleaning Central Coast is often the most effective solution. Here’s why:

Thorough Inspection and Identification: Professional mould cleaners can conduct a comprehensive inspection to assess the extent of the mould problem. This allows them to identify the source of the mould and ensure that all affected areas are addressed.

Specialised Equipment and Techniques: Mould removal professionals use advanced tools and cleaning agents that are far more effective than typical household products. These methods not only remove the visible mould but also prevent it from returning.

Health and Safety: Mould cleaning can be hazardous, especially if you’re dealing with a large infestation. Professionals follow proper safety procedures to protect themselves and your family while performing the cleaning.

Long-Term Prevention: In addition to cleaning, experts also offer advice on how to prevent mould growth in the future, such as improving bathroom ventilation and fixing leaks that may be contributing to the problem.

How Bathroom Mould Cleaning Works

Professional bathroom mould cleaning typically follows a systematic process to ensure that all mould is removed, and your bathroom is left in a safe condition:

Assessment: The first step involves assessing the severity of the mould problem and identifying the underlying cause of moisture.

Containment: Professionals will set up containment measures to prevent mould spores from spreading to other areas of your home during the cleaning process.

Cleaning and Removal: The affected surfaces are cleaned using specialised mould-removal products, which are safe for your bathroom surfaces but effective at removing mould and mildew.

Drying and Dehumidifying: After cleaning, the bathroom is thoroughly dried, and dehumidifiers are used to ensure that all moisture is eliminated, reducing the risk of mould regrowth.

Prevention: Finally, professionals provide tips for ongoing mould prevention, including the use of exhaust fans, regular cleaning, and addressing any plumbing leaks.

Why Choose Professional Bathroom Mould Cleaning Services on the Central Coast?

Choosing a professional service for bathroom mould cleaning Central Coast offers peace of mind knowing that the job will be done thoroughly and safely. With years of experience, trained technicians can ensure that your bathroom is mould-free and that any future growth is prevented.

If you're dealing with mould in your bathroom, don’t wait until it spreads. Contact a local professional for bathroom mould cleaning services to ensure the long-term health and safety of your home.

[glasssplashbacknewcastle]

The Expert Guide to Modern Shower Screen Care and Cleaning

We always splash water on floor and walls when we take shower and it is very common. When we take shower with hot water, it creates steam that leave white residue on the screen. It is important to clean these residues to maintain your shower screen. Modern shower screens are made from a variety of materials including, glass, acrylic, and polycarbonate.

Glass screen showers are most common type of modern shower screen, and they are relatively easy to clean. To clean a glass shower screen, simply spray it with a non-abrasive cleaning solution and wipe it down with a soft microfiber cloth.

General tips to clean the shower screen

Clean the shower screen regularly to prevent the buildup of soap scum, water spots and other hard to remove stains. It is important to clean your shower at least once in a week to maintain its shine, or more often if you use it frequently.

Use a non-abrasive solution and harsh chemical as these can damage the surface of your shower screen. A mild dish shop or a mixture of white vinegar and water is all you need to clean most shower screens.

Use a soft cloth to clean your shower screen. Avoid using sponges or scrubbers as these can scratch the surface. A soft microfiber cloth is ideal for cleaning shower screens.

Rinse tour shower screen thoroughly after cleaning. This will help to remove any residual cleaning solution.

Removing hard to remove stains

If you have any hard-to-remove stains on your shower screen, such as soap scum or water spots, you can try using a commercial shower screen cleaner.You can also try using a home remedy, such as a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda. To do this, mix equal parts white vinegar and baking soda to form a paste. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for some time. Then, scrub the stain with a soft microfiber cloth and rinse it thoroughly with water.

When to look for Professional cleaning

If you are unable to remove hard to remove stains on your own, you may want to consider hiring a professional shower screen cleaner. Professional cleaners have the experience and equipment to clean even the most stubborn stains.

Regular cleaning is essential, but so is taking preventive action. After each shower, use a squeegee to remove any remaining mineral residue and water spots. Unexpected incidents can be avoided by routinely inspecting hardware like brackets and hinges. Finally, think about spending money on routine professional maintenance checks, which a shower screen expert offers as a priceless service.

[resurfacingservice]

Top-Notch Service Of  Bathroom Resurfacing In Central Coast

If you are thinking makeover of your bathroom then you are on the right place. Their years of experience with professional team services make it the best service provider for bathroom resurfacing in central coast. For more information visit website.

[duramendesigns]

Bathroom Vanity Central Coast

Complete your bathroom renovation with a custom bathroom vanity at central Cost from Cosmetique Kitchen & Stone. Servicing Central Coast. Call 0478778197.

[flowerishness]

Solidago canadensis (Canada goldenrod) and Bombus impatiens (common eastern bumblebee)

Ah, Canada goldenrod in full bloom. What a wonderful sight! Canada goldenrod is not a native plant on the west coast being originally from the eastern and central parts of North America. Come to think of it, this common eastern bumblebee is also non-native being an escapee from local commercial greenhouse operations. Canada goldenrod is now considered an invasive weed (and an agricultural pest) throughout Europe and Asia. What a shame.

However, Canada goldenrod is obviously not to blame for the recent (and radical) worldwide decline in bumblebee populations. In 1950, there were 2.5 billion humans on Earth and now there's 8 billion. That's a lot of extra hungry mouths to feed. Twenty species of plants supply 90% of our food and just three - wheat, corn and rice - constitute about half. Unfortunately, all three of these plants are wind-pollinated. The hundreds of millions of acres sown in monocrops (550 million acres for wheat alone) are virtual deserts for bumblebees.

Grass is also wind-pollinated and in addition to all the land needed to graze cattle and sheep, we have another culprit: the suburban lawn. In the US for example, there are forty million acres of lawn. Twenty percent of Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Delaware and Connecticut are covered in lawns. True, grass seed often contains clover (which bumblebees love) but most gardeners fire up the lawnmower as soon as clover flowers appear. I know it can be hard to face unpleasant facts but if you're looking for someone to blame for the bumblebee crisis, just go look in your bathroom mirror.

[hozierandco]

The Match-maker - Part 3 of Callum Turner x Reader // FLUFF

AN: First of all, I apologise part 3 has taken longer than expected. I think I'll stop promising to publish at a certain date when I can't meet expectations. Anyway, this is part 3 which is still kinda fluffy but we're going towards SMUT (which will be part 4 so you will have to wait a bit more for this, sorryyyy). Hope you like it xx

“Would you like to see the pictures I took back to my place?”, Y/N questioned, feeling like the end of the night could well go somewhere unplanned but nice.

“I’d love that”

The night was well advanced and the Park was oddly quiet, perturbed only by the sound of rare sirens afar and some perched daring crows. The conversation went on about upcoming projects, recently watched Netflix shows and family dramas.

Though they had met just a few hours prior, the conversation flowed so smoothly. It was as though Callum, an English 30-ish actor had been through all the throes an American photographer had known. It felt good not only to be heard but to be understood as well, Y/N thought.

Callum could not help but think back on what in his life had led to this. What if he had never flown to New York and had decided to stay in Chelsea instead? What if he had never met Austin, and therefore had never met Y/N? Just to imagine never grazing Central Park in such pleasant company caused him to overthink all the many terrible ways this could end.

He had been heartbroken so many times, getting attached too soon and too quickly or to the wrong person. Over and over again. But he could sense that Y/N was different. Was it because she too had open wounds? Or was it that she was as detail-oriented as he was recounting all the love stories gone bad?

He did not wish to repeat the same mistakes that had led to him being hurt but he knew it was inevitable. He was going to fall for her. It was something about her bonhomie and vision of life that was so goddamn irresistible. 

“There, that’s where I’m living for a couple more days”, Y/N announced as they got to a stop in front of a door made of brick. Queens is not the first neighbourhood of the Big Apple you’re thinking of when you think of all the glam and romantic appeal the city has to offer but here it was. 

Though she had taken the subway already earlier in the evening to set her gear before attending the party, Y/N was still amazed at the non-stop functioning engine. She liked to imagine everyone’s life, now she had the occasion to imagine hers either choice she was about to make: to trust or not to trust that smiling actor who seemed unable to hurt a fly.

“Let me show you the camera obscura I set up in here”, Y/N declared with pride tinting her voice as she hinted that Callum could enter. At that moment, it felt the most natural thing to do, as though Callum was a familiar, as though Y/N had invited him over multiple times. 

In the small room she had tidied neat to exhibit her photographs of the city and those she was about to develop from the Gala, the two stood next to one another, feeling comfortable with each other’s presence. Because it was required by the device she had carried with her from one coast to the other, Y/N had placed some towel she had found in the bathroom and had arranged it over the lightbulb. The whole installation made the light flip crimson anytime she was turning on the switch. 

With this new shade of red covering his face, Callum could be admired the way he was created to be. He was a handsome man with this charm of a man who has no idea how ridiculously daunting and comely he was. It seemed as though his smile was wider than it had been through the evening. Y/N could not let go of the chance she had to kiss him just a little more, crossing her fingers that he would not disappear and that all of this was not just a fever dream. 

Though it was close to 2 am, though the two of them had not closed their eyes to rest for the past 19 hours or something like that, there was no way their lack of sleep was getting in the way of the chemistry they shared at that moment. 

Y/N was still in her black dress that Callum had made swirl just a couple hours prior with his dance moves. She was even more beautiful now that no one was around and that she had no performative socialisation to make. It was as though she was hers only, her precious treasure chest after a long journey to a remote island.

“So, can I help you with tonight’s pictures?” Callum offered with a heavenly grin on his face, just seconds after parting from her embrace and kisses.

And like that, Y/N was talking about the invention of the camera obscura and teaching him about the techniques to develop pictures from a film camera. Callum, being an actor, was a pro in front of the cameras but had no clue as to how they worked and was more than happy his teacher was both nerdy when it came to the subject and drop dead beautiful.

After having taught the basis, Y/N trusted Callum to develop pictures on his own. Seeing him being enthusiastic and caring with the films made him even more irresistible.

“I think this one has to be my favourite photograph so far”, Callum stated after letting a bunch of pictures taking a bath and allowing them to dry out. The photograph in question was a selfie of Y/N had taken right before the Gala started as a souvenir of this ethereal occasion. The only photograph from the selection that had her face on it. 

“Now, since you’ve been an excellent photographer, will you allow me to take some pictures of you?” Y/N asked, brushing off the compliment. 

Callum sat on the leather couch that seemed straight out from an Ikea catalogue and posed for Y/N. He could feel her eyes going from the camera to him and back to the camera, making sure she had the right angle to capture his beauty as a whole. It was a losing battle as Callum could not be as handsome as the version she had in front of her. She thought that if he was to vanish when the day would come, she would at least have the pictures to rely on.

As Callum was somehow obliged to look at the camera - and the person holding it -, the tension got to him. She was way too gorgeous not to be the one posing. As she fixed her zoom lens, he approached her and gave her another round of kisses. This time around, Y/N and Callum could feel there were more than kisses to get from this and touches on the thighs and torso succeeded.

“Is that okay if I’m touching you like that?” Callum asked Y/N as she grew desperate for the touch. 

“Yes, it’s more than okay. It’s just perfect”

The two of them carried on, competing as to who would be the most passionate. Callum brought Y/N’s mouth closer to his and after a few more kisses placed on her lips, got to her neck. Still on the sofa, Callum lay his weight on Y/N as he found new spots to soak with his affection.

[wildemaven]

Saturdays with Javier: Honeymoon

Pairing: Javier Pena x F!Reader

WC: 1483

Warnings: T; Mentions of food and drinks; otherwise pure fluff!

A/N: I have missed these two so much!! Wrote this for this week's @wildemaven-prompts theme. Felt like the perfect setting for a getaway for the two of them. Like always, not beta'd so sorry for any mistakes.

Series Masterlist / Main / Honeymoon Playlist

The stretch from home to your destination was anything but quick. 

Miles. 

And miles. 

And then some. 

4 state lines. 

And hours upon hours of driving time. 

27 hours to be exact, that’s what Javier had clocked it at when planning the route west. He insisted he could make it in one shot, but you managed to convince him to stop and rest along the way. 

It was small dinky motels with creaky beds and musty bathrooms, but you found them charming in their own way— Javier wasn’t convinced by your enthusiasm for them. . 

Roadside diners, who’s specials were a hearty plate of steak, eggs and burnt black coffee, provided the perfect spot to refuel yourself until the next stop. 

Desert plains, snow capped mountains and roadways weaving across vast stretches of land. 

*

Javier had asked you not long after the wedding where you had wanted to go for a honeymoon, but you had insisted you didn’t need one, you were happy with just a simple weekend together at home. 

While cleaning up from dinner one evening, Javier had over heard you and Chucho talking about places you wanted to visit— bucket list destinations. 

You mentioned it had been a dream of yours from very young to travel up the coast of California to see the Pacific, redwoods and camp out in the mountains under the stars. 

He tucked this information away and planned for weeks to bring this dream of yours to life. 

It was presented in the form of an old worn road map wrapped in a delicate silk ribbon, sitting on your kitchen table with a fresh bouquet of your favorite flowers. 

“What’s this?” You ask Javier, who’s propped up agains the kitchen counter, arms crossed over his chest, watching the confusion dance across your face. 

He shrugs as if oblivious, but you’ve known this man long enough to know he’s the worst liar. 

Untying the bow and carefully unfolding the tattered paper to unveil a map of the US. In red ink, a squiggled line drawn from Texas to California— a scribbled circle drawn around the central area of California��s coast. 

Big Sur. 

“Javi… what is this?”

Pushing off the counter he makes his way to you. His chest against your back, winding his arms around your front as he rests his chin on your shoulder. 

“I know you said you didn’t want to go anywhere.” A brief kiss placed to the crook where your shoulder meets your neck. “But I over heard you and Pop talking, you mentioned this being a place you’ve always wanted to visit. So, we’re going to pack up the car—“ Another kiss to your shoulder. “And go for a little road trip.”

You can’t help the tears that depart from your now watery eyes, gently dripping onto the faded map— the red ink now a broken line of blurry smudges. 

“Javi—“ A small sob catches in your throat. “This is too much.”

“No. Actually, it’s not enough. And it’s already planned. We leave tomorrow.” He turns you to him, brushing the tears away, his eyes pouring out love and affection into yours. “Go pack and then we’ll eat dinner.” 

The kiss tender, but evoking a feeling of warmth and security. You felt so adored by this man and loved doing life with him. 

*

The faint crinkling of a bag pulls you from the nap you hadn’t realized you needed. A yawn and brief stretch to work out the soreness that has settled within your stiff muscles, grateful tonight for a bed and cozy clothes. 

Another round of crinkling has you turning to your left, Javier knuckles deep into a half eaten bag of trail mix— sans the m&ms you’d already picked out hours ago. 

His eyes steady on the road, left hand gripping the wheel as he drives you north up Highway 1. 

A glimmer of light streaks across the dashboard, the rays from the setting Sun catching on his gold band that he wears on his ring finger. A sight that you’re not sure you’ll ever get use too, but welcome the memories it represents and look forward to the ones yet to be made. 

“How long was I out for?” Still a little groggy with sleep. 

“‘Bout 2 hours. Your neck has to be hurting the way you were all curled up.”

“Yeah. Feels a little stiff now.” You say as you rub at your neck. He reaches out to you, his thumb pressing into the tender spot working out the pain just enough to feel some relief. “Mmm, that feels nice.”

“I’ll have to give you a better one once we get settled in. Should be there shortly.”

His eyes back on the road, laser focused gaze shielded behind his amber aviators as he intertwines his fingers with yours, placing a kiss to the top of your hand. The breeze from his open window sweeps through the cab disrupting his thick locks now flowing about freely, the air is salty and crisp as it fans across your face. The pink and orange hues grab your attention, the painted sky kissing the ocean as the sun begins slowly sinking into the horizon. It’s then Javier who steals your breath as hums to the music streaming through the speakers, the slight bob of his head and tap of his fingers as the miles roll on.

*

It’s nearly dark when you’ve both settled into the “room”, which was essentially a glorified tent. Nestled off the main highway and surrounded by the tallest trees you had ever encountered. The air was wet as the coastal breeze rolled through the mountains. 

You’d made sure to pack as many layers as possible knowing the weather would be a far cry from the warm dry conditions Texas holds this time of year. 

The crackling of the smoldering fire, chirps of the singing crickets and Javier’s breathy snores against your neck are the last things you hear as you fall into a restful sleep. 

*

Morning comes sooner than anticipated, but your eagerness to explore has you feeling alive and ready for the day. 

Turning you discover Javier is no longer next to you, but the clanking outside the tent tells you he’s already moving about, likely do to his rigid morning routine of coffee and breakfast before he can properly function.

The picnic table is already brimming with a feast of breakfast foods— bacon, eggs, pancakes, sausage links and sliced bread from the little bakery you’d stopped at for lunch yesterday. Warm coffee awaited you in a mug as you began to fill your plate with the delicious food Javier had prepared. 

“What do you want to do today?” His voices slightly muffled as he wipes the crumbs from the hairs of his mustache. 

“Anything. Maybe just drive a bit and see what we find. I want to grab some pictures so we can share with Pop.”

“There was a few pull-outs along the way we can check out. See if there’s any trails to explore.”

The man sitting across from you, so relaxed and happy, is your favorite sight. As you both sit here surrounded by such a beautiful setting, the tranquil atmosphere and beauty of the scenery, you can’t help the overwhelming amount of joy you have for this life bestowed on you. 

*

The coast line is socked in with a thick layer of fog as Javier pulls the car off the road to a look out point. The crashing water below just barely visible, the sound of each wave hitting the rocks before it recedes back out, a mesmerizing sight in itself. Their misty sprays floating up and around, making you grateful for the extra warm jacket Javier packed the car. 

The ocean is the perfect backdrop for your shared lunch, sandwiches and chips were an easy option for adventuring.

The fog finally burning off midday to reveal the luminous blue water, rippling waves as far as you could see. 

*

As the day came to a closure, bodies fatigued but hearts satisfied, you find yourselves wrapped up in each other. A thick blanket and newly lit fire add to the overall mood of the night. Stars making their appearance known as you gaze up through the tree tops. 

It’s whispers of excitement for your future together and for the love you both share always, as well as with in this moment. 

It’s intimacy you experience within the confines of your tent, brought on by your adoration and commitment to each other, pleasure being pulled from the depths of your bodies with fervor over and over again with soft precision.

It’s the thought this trip will become a keepsake of imagery that will forever be tucked away in your mind. Rolls of film once developed, will become the only tangible means to recall the road trip you fell in love with Javier all over again. 

[uhhhhmanda]

Happy WIP Wednesday! Here's a snippet from my as-yet-unnamed fic where Gaon ends up recuperating in the Kang mansion because he crashed his bike racing Yohan's Corvette (rather than due to the exploding painting).

Wandering the house again Gaon overheard a conversation between the chief judge and his niece. Their communication style was unexpected. “You need to wash him.” “I thought the cat was a girl.” “Not the cat. The boy.” “He’s almost 30. He’s not a boy.” “Well, he stinks.” “So stay away from him. He has an open wound on his back. It’s not easy for him to bathe.” “So do it for him.” “Is this a fantasy for you or a punishment for me?” This was followed by the sound of something being thrown, a dull thud, and a chuckle from the Chief. Gaon peeked around the corner. The coast was clear. “Chief,” he hissed. Kang Yohan looked extremely amused to find the subject of his conversation hiding behind a pillar. “If you could lend me yet another change of clothes I’d actually love to try to shower. I’m not dizzy at all today.” The chief judge motioned for Gaon to follow him and led him through the central room with the desk, through a bedroom smaller than the one he’d been assigned, and into a walk-in closet so extravagant that it had motion-sensing glass doors and an illuminated island. It was a dressing room, Gaon realized. This man had a dressing room. From various drawers and cupboards Kang Yohan assembled another outfit of soft clothes for Gaon: another collarless shirt, loose pants, socks, a cardigan, boxer briefs. Oh, god, I am wearing my boss’s underwear, even. Kang Yohan seemed delighted by the task. At least, Gaon hoped that was what was making the chief judge so animated and smiley — and not his own rising blush. “I can help, if you like,” said Kang Yohan. The close quarters made his voice resonate. “What?” blurted Gaon. Kang Yohan’s mouth curled into an almost vicious smile. “I could tape some plastic wrap over your bandage to keep it dry.” “Ohhhh. Um. Sure. Yes. That would be helpful. Um. Thank you.” Gaon followed Kang Yohan again to the kitchen and then his desk, clutching his change of clothes to his chest. At the desk the chief gestured at Gaon with a little pair of gold scissors. “Chief?” “Shirt.” “Off?” “Yes.” “Here?” “Why not?” “Your niece —” “Has seen worse.” “I would really rather — in my room — if you don’t mind.” Kang Yohan shrugged and led the way again, scissors, plastic wrap, and tape in hand. In the shower, it occurred to Gaon that Kang Yohan had almost certainly seen him naked. Someone had dressed him while he was unconscious and he doesn’t think it had been Elijah or the nanny. And it would have been strange enough to know his boss had seen him naked — but this boss was someone Gaon had had sexual fantasies about. And he was apparently at least a little bit of a sadist, judging by the way Gaon found him lurking outside the bathroom, waiting for him to emerge so that he could tear off the tape he’d meticulously applied in one swift, searing rip that left Gaon gasping.

[realperson022]

@viacursecasting this one's yours! Cat got on MY keyboard and INTENTIONALLY deleted the ask. don't even know what to be more upset about. That my cat is an evil gremlin or that he doesn't support sonadow 😤 ANYWAY. hope u enjoy :)

Prompt was: 20. "At least I didn't break any laws" with sonadow

"At least I didn't break any laws."

Shadow sighed, exhausted already by the day's events and with Sonic's recent injury, matters weren't getting any better.

"Not any that GUN knows of," the agent said while handing some gauze to the hero to put pressure on his wound.

Sonic took it, leaning back on the bed to get a good view of where the damn badnik's slippery hands got a good scratch on him. It was a nasty slice across his lower torso, but thankfully, it didn't penetrate anything vital. Just a surface wound, nothing to worry about.

"Are you intending on turning me in anytime soon?" The hero grunted when he pressed the gauze onto his bleeding wound.

Shadow rolled his eyes, walking toward the bathroom to soak a piece of clean cloth with water to clean around the cut.

"And let the Commander rejoice at the sight of you behind bars like he always intended? Not a chance," the striped hedgehog called out from the other room, making Sonic chuckle.

Bad move, he realized too late as he felt his abdomen muscles flex under his touch from the pain of moving spontaneously.

His ears perked up when he heard Shadow walking back out and continuing their conversation.

"Besides, the world would be against it. The part that still trusts you, at least. You would easily be set free unless GUN's prepared for massive rioting among other stuff."

Sonic grinned, "So either they let me break any laws I want or the people would break them until I'm free?"

Shadow took a seat next to the blue hero, ignoring his rather cocky smile and instead, focusing on getting him fixed up.

"Yes…pretty paradoxical how it works, but I can see why it must be like this," the agent nodded, beginning to ease away the blue hedgehog's hand gently to see if the bleeding had stopped.

When it appeared that it did, he moved onto cleaning the injury, being careful with his strokes. The last thing Shadow needed was for it to get infected, especially right now when they were facing challenges they weren't prepared for. Not in the slightest to the agent's dismay. It was quite a whirlwind lately all over the news and media; tabloids did the most damage to Sonic and Shadow's reputations.

Because it happened so that their years of protecting this world were shockingly being brought up into question by GUN and other world leaders. Just out of the blue, headlines popped up in newspapers and online articles claiming there was a possibility that their heroic acts were a disguise for something nefarious.

Why?

Someone had leaked details about Project Shadow and its unconventional connections to a wildly aggressive alien race.

The hybrid still didn't understand how he was suddenly under scrutiny again when he saved the same goddamn people from their potential deaths years ago when Black Doom invaded the world. And instead of his employer clearing up any twisted lies and false accusations publicly, he ignored it, leaving the Ultimate Lifeform to fend for himself.

Worse of all? Sonic began to receive negative comments from strangers, too. Supposedly, by keeping his rivalry with Shadow ongoing, the hero was implying he followed the striped hedgehog's ideals of "conquering the world through force and violence."

That's how one outlet put it last week, anyway.

If anything, the only following Sonic did with Shadow was from Central City to Emerald Coast for a race, from Mazuri to Apotos for a food trip, and then back to Central City to look at city lights only to wind up tangled in each other's limbs for the rest of the night in the very same bed they were sitting on.

Shadow was glad Sonic had agreed to keeping their relationship away from the spotlight since they first started dating a year ago. It saved them from an even worse course of events that were currently happening. Deep down, he couldn't help but think that his rival would be absolved from any of this mess, proven innocent if Shadow had simply cut ties with him instead of engaging in romantic trysts.

Now, it was too late and as usual, it was all his fault, unintentionally besmirching a good man's reputation. Shadow ruined everything for the hero in a matter of months. All the good he witnessed Sonic do was going to waste because he was connected to Shadow one way or another. They couldn't even have a simple conversation in broad daylight without garnering the attention of the public, of prying eyes that reflected blatant distaste for them.

The dark hedgehog felt awful. He felt like a plague. Everywhere he stepped, looked, and breathed gave away the impression that he was a ticking time bomb by the horrific looks he'd receive on a daily basis. A monster that parents now warned their kids to stay away from. A villain considered the worst of them all, even more than the Doctor.

An outcast, again.

For the first time in so long, Shadow felt small and defenseless in this world. It was pathetic how he was letting all these things get to him, really. He knew he was better than this, that their words meant nothing compared to his actions. But sometimes, they just slipped through the small cracks in his mind and drove him insane with their unrelenting nature to remind him of his past wrongs and mistakes and–

"Shadow."

The hybrid exhaled sharply, momentarily figuring out that he'd been holding his breath this entire time.

"Shadow, hey…" A hand came to delicately cradle the agent's muzzle, wiping away the stray tears he didn't know he was letting out until feeling the wetness upon being touched.

Shadow met an emerald gaze, his chest swelling up with more guilt as he saw worry etched across the hero's face. Great, he was making more problems.

"I'm sorry," he whispered, both for everything he let happen and now seeing the harsh redness around the other's wound resulting from his incessant cleaning.

Sonic shook his head, offering his rival a small smile. "No, it's okay. I'm fine…"

The blue hedgehog's smile wavered, his green eyes studying Shadow's pensive face. It was a melancholic look he knew by memory now. Days of a past where circumstances made them out to be enemies, then years of a culminating present where they were friends by choice. More than that, secretly.

"We're fine, Shadow…we're okay," the blue hero assured his rival, bringing his other hand to fully hold Shadow's face. Yes, times were hard right now. Full on shitty, but nothing they couldn't handle.

"Wanna know why?" Sonic didn't know how long this ongoing debate about their morals and talks of ulterior motives was going to last.

"Why?"

But like hell would he let the world tear down Shadow the Hedgehog, not again.

"Because we're together."

Shadow swallowed thickly, holding back his tears this time. "What if this is what ends–"

"No." Sonic's voice was steady, his unyielding faith in their relationship as trusted companions above all else making the agent's heart thump proudly at being called his. "We're gonna get through this together and if anything goes wrong, we'll fix it. As long as we stay together, we'll be okay, Shadow."

Hope slowly washed out the regret and guilt in ruby eyes, making the blue hero lean forward to press their foreheads together.

"Promise?" Shadow's breath danced across a fawn muzzle.

"I promise," Sonic sealed their vow with a kiss, forgetting about the pain and his wound, and just relishing the way his rival held him closely.

I won't let you drift away from me again, Shadow.

[sixofravens-reads]

Reading update:

Finished Absolution last night! Wow, what a book. It's definitely meant to be supplementary material for the original trilogy, so if you're new to Southern Reach make sure to read those first.

(whoops this for really long)

I loved this weird book, even though it gave me serious night terrors all week (there were contributing factors but the night terrors were distinctly Area X flavoured). Love the mystery of the biologists and rabbits and the Rogue. Currently I'm not sure who the Rogue could be, unless he's a new character and not someone who appears in the series? I thought he might be Whitby at first but he's described as a pretty big dude and Whitby is notably small and weasely. Old Jim is a wonderful character, a foil for John Rodriguez in Authority. The worst part is knowing no matter what he does, the mission is doomed to fail, and he's going to die horribly along with everyone else.

The final section with Lowry was difficult to get through at first, very much the internal narrative of a 14 year old boy who's obsessed with bathroom humour and sex. He does end up being a pretty amusing character, and his journey through Area X is really something. I also liked that at first we're led to believe he's different and has a special connection with Area X, which is why he survives, but at the end there's a lowkey reveal that everyone has been going through their own psychedelic horror experiences and all the people who have survived that long think that way (Hargraves especially seems to have been shown some footage or a time slip from the night the border came down). It's great to see what really happened there, and gives some insight into why Lowry became so controlling about missions.

Also, I love how while in the original trilogy we get some idea of how secluded the Forgotten Coast is, and how Area X impacts everyone differently, this book really emphasizes how the invasion is truly a personal experience and not a community one. Beforehand, we have the incident with the biologists, who the townsfolk are aware but wary of, and assume they all fled during the hurricane (save for Man Boy Slim and Drunk Boat). Meanwhile they've been fighting and eventually die from multiple supernatural events mere miles from the village. Old Jim and Saul know of each other, but we get no hint of either of their stories because Jim is purely invested in the S&SB and the Dead Town evidence (while battling other Central agents) and Saul is a normal lighthouse keeper who just thinks the S&SB are a bunch of prats who fuck with his lighthouse lantern. The only connection between the two is Henry, but no one knows what he released from the lighthouse. I don't think Henry ever properly knows what it is, because he dies or gets subsumed into Area X pretty early on. Old Jim has his own Area X experience in Dead Town, and knows what's coming before anyone else, but doesn't know Saul has been infected and the change will be triggered by his transformation into the Crawler/Tower, because the "carrier" comment doesn't make sense to him in context. Also, the note that the carrier must always remain the same and how it implies the Rogue has been doing time loops trying to perfect Area X's manifestation is WILD.

Meanwhile, in Lowry's exploration of Area X, the lighthouse is never visited and the tower is never mentioned. His mission involves the village and Dead Town, and the destroyer on the horizon that lures Sky away. He sees what he was sent in to see. Meanwhile, later missions don't mention Dead Town at all--maybe because he doesn't want people to find the Whitby corpse or see the evidence of cannibalism? Or is it just that Area X is a personal experience for everyone, and the landscape will only reveal what it decides should be revealed? Perhaps Dead Town was only meant to be shown to Lowry and not to anyone else.

I believe it's mentioned that some missions find the tower and others don't--i think whether it's present depends on Gloria's involvement, either with entering Area X or with instructions given to her teams, because Saul is someone she's specifically looking for.

Anyway that fascinated me. So many interconnected plot points that people are completely unaware of. Reminds me of true crime or disaster shows where they piece everything together and say "if only X, Y, and Z spoke to each other rationally this would've been prevented, but they either didn't get along or didn't know they had vital information to begin with."

Also...the note on the message board for Saul 😭 my headcanon is that it's from Charlie, because if it were from Gloria she would've also addressed it to her mom. Not sure if that makes it sadder or not. It does spark the question of how the messages got there--were the phone or fax lines still open for a while after the border?

ANYWAY. wonderful book. Definitely need a lighter book after that, so I'm going to reread A Marvellous Light. I remember liking it well enough, though right as I was about to finish it the first time (back in 2022) my coworker in Ukraine messaged everyone to say Russia had invaded, so that's primarily what I remember from that time. (Didn't read for like 2 weeks after that. Both the shock and panic of having a coworker whose life/family was at risk and also being Ukrainian by heritage...that hit pretty hard.) ANYWAY. I'll give it a chance again and then see if I want to read the sequel. Series where each book focuses on different characters can be a tough sell for me, and it annoys me that a lot of "romantasy" authors will write one book, then be like "okay, I made them fuck, time to put those characters away! nothing else could possibly happen to them! but I signed a 3-book contract so here's some new characters that you may or may not like as much! pretend the other ones don't exist!!" the Kingston Cycle also did this and I didn't like books 2 and 3 as much as book 1 (mainly because while the stakes were raised and the plot became more political, the page count remained the same, which meant it seemed like a lot of both the interpersonal plots and the political stuff was a little under-done because the author had to compromise to make it all fit a book the same length as Witchmark which was a simpler murder mystery type deal.)

(sorry this got so very long I apparently had much to ramble about. time to go check on supper, which is chilli with no chilli powder bc I tragically ran out and didn't realize until id already started cooking, but with extra green chilies so hopefully it evens out).

[centralcoastkitchens]

8 Practical Reasons To Give Your Bathroom A Makeover

The space where you begin and end your day plays a vital role in your daily routine. Over time, certain parts of your home may start to lose their original appeal or become outdated. When this happens, refreshing and upgrading your bathrooms Central Coast can make a significant difference, not only in functionality but also in comfort and style. 

The following list details some of the most common practical reasons why revamping your comfort room is a smart decision.

Enhance Energy Efficiency

Modern upgrades often focus on energy efficiency, helping you save on utility bills while also reducing your environmental impact. Older fixtures, such as faucets, lighting, and water systems, tend to consume more water and electricity. With new technology, you can install energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and eco-friendly materials. These enhancements can cut costs and make your space more sustainable in the long run, while still providing a luxurious feel.

Improve Functionality

As your lifestyle changes, your space should adapt to meet your new needs. Whether your family has grown, or you now prefer more storage space, a well-thought-out makeover can make this room far more functional. Consider adding more storage cabinets, maximising counter space, or rethinking the overall layout to make better use of the area. This ensures that the space meets your specific needs and remains convenient for years to come.

Fix Existing Issues

Over time, wear and tear can result in various problems such as leaks, mould growth, and inefficient plumbing. Rather than dealing with these issues piecemeal, a complete refresh allows you to tackle them all at once. Addressing these underlying problems not only improves the look of the space but also ensures that it functions optimally. Solving these issues proactively can prevent bigger, costlier problems in the future.

Upgrade Aesthetics

Style trends evolve, and what looked great a decade ago may now feel outdated. A makeover gives you the chance to bring the space in line with contemporary designs, whether that means minimalist touches, adding natural elements, or opting for a more modern, sleek look. You can explore new colours, textures, and materials that reflect your current taste, giving your home an updated, personalised vibe that makes everyday living more enjoyable.

Create a Spa-Like Retreat

One of the greatest perks of giving this space a facelift is transforming it into a place of relaxation. With the right fixtures, lighting, and design elements, you can create a personal retreat where you can unwind after a long day. From luxurious soaking tubs to rainfall showers and ambient lighting, your revamped area can become a serene oasis, offering a spa-like experience without leaving your home.

Boost Safety

Many older areas have outdated features that no longer meet modern safety standards. Slippery floors, poor lighting, or malfunctioning electrical outlets can pose safety hazards. By upgrading the space, you can install non-slip flooring, better lighting, and safer electrical fixtures. Additionally, if you have children or elderly family members, there are numerous options for making the area safer, such as installing grab bars or raising counter heights to make it more accessible.

Increase Home Value

When it comes to selling your home, one of the most critical areas prospective buyers focus on is how fresh and functional your interiors are. An upgraded space adds significant value to your property, making it more appealing to potential buyers. Even minor changes such as replacing outdated fixtures or reworking the layout can lead to a higher return on investment when it’s time to put your home on the market.

Refresh Your Daily Routine

Sometimes, a change in your environment can reinvigorate your mood and make daily activities more enjoyable. A fresh new look can brighten your mornings and set a more positive tone for your day. A well-designed, aesthetically pleasing space can significantly improve your daily routine by providing an environment that’s both visually appealing and highly functional. This transformation can make getting ready in the morning or winding down at night feel like a more pleasant, even luxurious, experience.

Updating and improving this essential part of your home is a practical and rewarding investment. From increasing energy efficiency and home value to creating a serene, spa-like retreat, there are numerous benefits to giving your comfort room a makeover. Whether you’re addressing existing problems, enhancing safety, or simply looking to refresh your daily routine, these practical reasons make it clear that now is the perfect time to make a change.

[stellathy]

About this property - Introduction to Vietnam and Quy Nhon City  Hello! Today, I will introduce you to Vietnam and its beautiful city, Quy Nhơn.  Vietnam (Việt Nam) is a country located in Southeast Asia, bordered by China to the north, Laos and Cambodia to the west, and the South China Sea to the east. Vietnam is famous for its diverse culture and rich history, and is loved by many tourists for its beautiful natural scenery, delicious food, and friendly people.  Among them, Quy Nhon is a beautiful port city located on the central coast of Vietnam. It is the capital of Binh Dinh Province and boasts beautiful natural scenery with clear blue sea, white sandy beaches, and majestic mountains. Quy Nhon is also famous for its various seafood dishes. In particular, dishes featuring fresh seafood are very popular with visitors to the area.  Vietnam and Quy Nhon offer travelers unforgettable memories with their unique charm and rich culture. For those who love natural scenery and want to experience a new culture, Vietnam, especially Quy Nhon, is the best travel destination.  thank you!  ------------------------ The new home has 3 beds, 3 baths, 4 queen beds, 1 bar room, 1 living room and 1 full kitchen. It is an ideal place for a group holiday with friends and family. The house is designed in a modern, airy and spacious style. This is a great place to bring your pet on holiday.  Just a 4-minute walk to Xuan Dieu Beach_Quy Nhon, where you can enjoy a swim and plenty of seafood and street food restaurants. Accommodation This luxurious home near the beach is perfect for a holiday with friends or family. The new home is built in a contemporary style and has a luxurious and warm interior design that will provide you with a relaxing day. Each bedroom is designed to be simple and airy using natural latex mattresses, allowing you to get a good night's sleep after a fun day. In particular, each bedroom features a luxurious and spacious design, imported equipment and a separate bathroom with shower gel and shampoo.  Pets (maximum 2) are allowed. The kitchen is spacious and luxurious. It is fully equipped with kitchenware such as a refrigerator, stove, microwave, cups, dishes, plates, beer glasses, wine glasses... and a luxurious dining table set adds a refreshing touch to your meals. Family holiday.  You will enjoy a truly comfortable and enjoyable stay at The Shades House. Amenities available to guests You have full access to the entire home using existing equipment. The property has a camera system in public areas to protect the security of your holiday.  In particular, the bar room has been designed entirely in wood to provide your group with a fun, luxurious, private and warm space.  If you want to enjoy the cool afternoon breeze, the covered terrace has a sofa set for a comfortable feel. Other notes : Parking:  You can park in front of the house or on the street.  Please enjoy quiet time from 10 PM to 6 AM.  Check-in: 2pm. Check-out: 11:00.  If you would like to check in/out earlier or later than the specified times, please let us know in advance and The Shades team will do their best to assist you.  We hope The Shades House becomes your destination during your vacation. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- https://www .airbnb.com.vn/rooms/1082400972265675038?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

[rabbitcruiser]

Morro Rock Ecological Preserve, CA (No. 8)

With an oceanfront parking lot located directly under the shadow of awe-inspiring Morro Rock, this popular surf spot is as close to the rock as it gets. Although technically part of Morro Strand, this beach is often referred to as Morro Rock Beach by locals and travelers alike, for reasons that will become obvious the moment you arrive. Easily stroll the base of Morro Rock, keeping an eye out for seabirds (fun fact: the rock is the last of “the nine sisters,” or volcanic mountains that run from the Central Coast to Southern California). Today, Morro Rock is a historic landmark and bird sanctuary home to Peregrine Falcons, Seagulls and all manner of waterfowl which thrive along the rocky landscape. Surfers, picnickers, kite-flyers and sunbathers flock to the beach located just north of the rock, while the south side—protected by the harbor—is popular among kayakers and fishing enthusiasts. Planning on staying in San Simeon or Cambria, two popular Central Coast kayaking destinations in their own right? We encourage you to bring your kayak south to Morro Bay for a unique experience unlike what you’ve already enjoyed. While you might see whales and elephant seals to the north on Highway 1, Morro Bay features its own menagerie of critters, including friendly harbor seals and a year-round otter population that can be observed regularly snacking, napping, and communing among Morro Bay’s plentiful kelp beds.

Similarly, surfers staying in Cayucos love the close proximity to Morro Rock—known as one of the most popular surf spots on the Central Coast. Why not rent a board and catch a few iconic waves for yourself? Depending on the swell, you can also paddle across the harbor side to Sand Spit beach (also accessible from the Los Osos side). Large waves are common here, so it’s important to watch kids while they play in the water (lifeguards are staffed from Memorial Day Labor Day from 10am-6pm). Please note that dogs must be on-leash in this area, but they are welcome to roam freely at the Morro Bay Dog Beach, which stretches six miles north to dog-friendly town Cayucos. With its vast, sandy beach and views of Morro Rock in the distance, you’ll enjoy the walk just as much as your pup. Lastly, parking at Morro Rock Beach is a breeze: just take your pick of spots in this massive parking lot with bathrooms and outdoor showers to clean off sandy toes. Plus, parking wraps south of the rock, providing even more convenience for busy days (you’ll enjoy even greater views of the rock, local wildlife, and glittering back bay as you park the car). That’s a true win-win!

Source

[zahri-melitor]

Back to the Santa Read Along and my next stop is another obscure comic:

Forbidden Tales of Dark Mansion #15

There is something decidedly creepy about reading old horror comics with the Comics Code approval on the front, as your brain goes places that the story does not. Here we have A Slay Ride with Santa, where our opening scene is a hired Santa (Bill Digby) killing a child for her pocket money so he can pay rent, and not what my brain expected from the story set up (CSA). His landlady finds the little girl (who has been hanged – seems an awkward way to go about things but what do I know about child murder) and calls the cops.

REAL Santa is here too, as “Kristopher Kringull” who has a shop labelled “mender of toys”. This toy repair business apparently fools everyone over his blatantly obvious name. I do want to stop here and note that we are once again repairing toys for the unfortunates who would not otherwise get them, like in Superman’s Christmas Adventure 1940. Which, hmmm, is definitely another parable about accepting what you’re given and the Spirit of Christmas is in giving

Bill Digby runs away from the cops and ends up finding Kristopher Kringull’s workshop and sneaking in to hide, climbing into (oh no) the sleigh. I also want to note this story uses the phrase “I’ve gotta a see a man about a dog” to mean “I need to leave; I have commitments elsewhere”, which is fascinating, as I’ve always understood it to be a “Excuse me I’m going to the bathroom/pub”. A quick squiz at things says the general overarching meaning is the former, but it’s pretty much exclusively used to mean the latter. Anyway, language diversion complete, I’m guessing this is some joke bonus.

In terms of Santa – he is VERY delinquent in delivering the presents.

He notes that he better get started as it’s “midnight in Europe and Africa” but to get to Asia and Australia before the kids get up in the morning he really has to hurry! And to that, I would like to point out to Mr Kringull here he might need to travel backwards in time, because even if I’m generous and give him it being ‘midnight’ in the most eastern parts of Europe and Africa (which ranges from 0 to +3 if you count places like Belarus, Tanzania, Kenya, etc), then at Christmas, folks, New Zealand is in +13. The east coast of Australia is +11. Western Australia and China are +8. Japan and Korea are +9.

On my MOST generous estimate of ‘Europe midnight’…The kids are already up, Mr Kringull, as it is TEN AM IN NEW ZEALAND. They’re up in most of Australia because it is between 5-8am on CHRISTMAS DAY. If we use Central Europe, which is probably more likely, then it is 7-10am in Australia, 7am in China, 8am in Japan and Korea, and MIDDAY in New Zealand.

Santa. You should have left 12 hours ago.

Anyway, the sleigh takes to the skies (about half a day late) and Digby falls off the sleigh while they’re flying, clutching onto a rope. Santa does not notice. Digby presumably deserves this for murdering a child. The end.

Next time: some of the Rudolph stories? Maybe 1975 Limited Collectors Editions? We’ll see how I go. Hopefully some superheroes again soon.

[ahlulhaditht]

Pictures below I took by the Atlantic coast, in fishermen village. The boy was looking at the fishermen working on the nets they will use when fishing. Bilād al-Maghrib, Sha'abān 1444

Al-Basīrah wal Farāsah

There are concepts that are difficult to translate from Arabic into English because Arabic is such a rich language in comparison to English.

Al-Basīrah is a quality that Allāh has endowed some of his slaves, which translates roughly as insight but is really the ability in the heart to see the true nature of things, and events, beyond their apparent and physical state.

Al-Farāsah is often translated as intuition but again this is approximate, what it really means is again the ability gifted by Allāh to his slaves to know real intentions and hidden motives as well as the ability to sense whether a decision will be the correct one from the perspective of pleasing Allāh and bringing kheir.

I have one story about Al-Basīrah that happened to me recently.

Īmān - faith, goes up and down as we know (that is from the central tenets of our Aqīdah (belief, creed). That day my Īmān was going down. My Basīrah was way more compromised than usual. I was not thinking much about decisions and things coming my way.

We were travelling and I was tired when I received a phone call from a friend. This friend has a tendency to complain about her trials and as we know, we humans tire of people complaining (unlike Allāh who likes to hear our voices and supplications). I decided not to take her phone call as I thought am too tired to listen to her complaining.

So I didn't take the call and I didn't call back thinking I want to take a break during this travelling.

We started looking for a place for the night. We were tired and we decided to take the first one that came along on the road. When we entered the house, it was one of the ugliest places I had ever stayed in. The bathroom was a bit broken and it felt like an abandoned house.

I felt straight away in my heart الأرزاق من يد الله - as it is said here in Bilād al-Maghrib, the Arzāq (plural of Rizq, provision) is in the hands of Allāh.

And in my heart I felt : " So you did not want to land a hand to your friend who needed a friend to listen to her", and so this is what Allāh has given you back in return.

You see, the Salaf had a lot of this Basīrah and linked events like this all the time. This can be found in the biography of the Salaf - pious predecessors. They knew that if they helped Allāh's slaves, Allāh will help them.

And today's Muslims have lost all Basīrah, they don't actually know what it is. They actually laugh if you explain it to them. They have been blinded.

As a Hadīth of the Prophet ﷺ says, which I need to find again, their hearts resemble so much those of the a'ājim (the non-Arabs, who at the time were the non-Muslims)...

May Allāh grant us all Basīrah