#ottawa move out cleaning

[atomiccowboyparadise]

Best Move Out Cleaning Service In Ottawa

Go for our Ottawa move-out cleaning services at the lowest prices today. Using modern technology and relying on the best quality tools, we help you keep your spaces clean. Moreover, we also offer a customer satisfaction guarantee. Call now to know more.

[clessenzacleaningservice]

Move-Out Cleaning Services in Ontario

Clessenza Cleaning Service is one such reputable company offering Move-Out Cleaning Services in Ontario. We pride ourselves on attention to detail and dedication to customer satisfaction. By choosing Clessenza, you're not just getting a clean space but a hassle-free move. It will save you time, energy, and headaches, leaving you to focus on the excitement of your new beginning. Contact us today and let us handle the dirty work while you focus on the next chapter of your life.

[speedyjanitorialsblog]

Moving out and need cleaning services in Ottawa? Speedy Janitorial has you covered! Their expert team will ensure your space is clean and ready for the next tenant. Visit https://speedyjanitorial.ca to learn more.

[copperbadge]

Radio Free Monday

Good morning everyone, and welcome to Radio Free Monday!

Ways to Give:

feralfxckxr is raising funds for an in-clinic abortion procedure after the initial pill failed to work following an assault. They are offering tarot readings and have friends offering art commissions; you can read more, reblog, and find giving/commission information here.

Anon linked to a fundraiser findingfeather is running to help mythopoetry live safely in Ottawa long enough to get her citizenship finalized and her healthcare needs met after her health was neglected for years during an abusive marriage. You can read more, reblog, and find giving information here or give at the fundraiser here.

lexin linked to a fundraiser for Laura, whose lease is up for renewal; she wants to get out but needs to delay, as her physical health is not good and there's a lot of work that needs to be done for her to be able to move house, and some of that work will need to be something they pay others to do. You can read more and give to the fundraiser here.

Anon linked to a fundraiser for a friend, Angel, who is trying to purchase a recumbent bike; Angel has significant physical restrictions and needs exercise to improve health and stave off future health issues. You can read more and support the fundraiser here.

Stevie linked to a fundraiser for friends Caine and Mary, who are trying to restore their small-town farm; they bought the farm attempting to become more self-sufficient as a queer and disabled couple, but the house needs repairs and they've had a few setbacks, and government aid is slow in coming. You can read more and support the fundraiser here.

Recurring Needs:

loversdoom is a college student from the Philippines, studying away from her family, and her parents are unexpectedly unable to support her education; she is dealing with a number of expenses and is now looking at costly medical procedures as well. You can read more and reblog here or give to the fundraiser here.

onedollopofsourcream is raising funds to help with food, transportation, medication for their family, and other expenses after a string of financial issues; you can read more, reblog, and find giving information here.

rilee16 is raising funds to get out of an abusive home situation; with irregular work hours and a tax debt due on top of chronic illness issues, they also need funds to repair their phone, which is dying, and cover utility bills. You can read more, reblog, and find giving information here.

Anon linked to a fundraiser for their friend dyken, who along with their partner has been having trouble covering bills, food, and mental health treatment; their family is abusive and unwilling to help financially. They are accepting donations via paypal and commissions via ko-fi; you can read more, reblog, and find giving information here.

chingaderita's partner recently lost their job due to a house fire that also destroyed the house; they're raising funds to keep food on the table for a family of nine, to try and get a supply of water to keep clean, and for medications and bills until they can find new work. You can read more, reblog, and support the fundraiser here.

karla-hoshi (Hoshi on TikTok) has been raising funds for cancer treatment for her cat Naku, but unfortunately Naku passed last week. Between Naku's treatments and other unexpected financial issues, they are short funds for the last lab tests and for cremation to help make the loss easier; you can read more, reblog, and support the fundraiser here.

And this has been Radio Free Monday! Thank you for your time. You can post items for my attention at the Radio Free Monday submissions form. If you're new to fundraising, you may want to check out my guide to fundraising here.

[sillysnack]

“My name is Fayza, a Palestinian Canadian living in Ottawa. With great sadness, I'm reaching out to you today to help my family evacuate from Gaza to Egypt.

During the war, my brother and his family evacuated from the north to the south of Gaza. They became homeless and evacuated more than five times.

As the situation becomes more dangerous, more evacuations expected and they will have no place to go to.

My brother’s family in Gaza, including his wife, and their three children (ages 3, 11, and 13, along with my sister who suffers from type 1 diabetes and my brother who has severe asthma, are facing dire circumstances amidst the ongoing conflict. After losing their home to an airstrike, they now live in a tent, constantly moving to avoid danger, struggling without access to essential medications, clean water, or sufficient food.”

[thomasschabot]

find myself running home to you

thomas chabot x fem!reader

for thomas, big wins don’t always have to be celebrated in flashy ways

word count: 2.5k

warnings: cursing

a/n: first fic in almost five months, what’s good? this is extremely niche content but i simply do not care 😌

⭑⭒⭑

Ottawa offers enveloping anonymity and you love it. 

It’s a city with too much going on governmentally for people to care about hockey all that much, but the loyal handfuls still respect the privacy of those in the organization and leave them alone, save for the rare time a child asks to take a picture with their favourite player. You’re thankful this is where your roots are extending, settling into the suburbs and occasionally winding their way down Dalhousie into the heart of the Market for a night out. No one bothers you, even when you’re out with Thomas, and it’s the thing that will keep you from ever leaving. The future of a professional athlete is unpredictable, you know, but you’ll fight your boyfriend tooth and nail if he ever wants to move somewhere else unless they’re offering him millions of more dollars and the same opportunity to live your lives publicly and without incident.

The fact that no one cares who you are allows you to sit in your favourite spot at the Canadian Tire Centre — a seat in the 300s directly across from the home bench so you can see everything Thomas experiences. He’s not particularly skilled at hiding his emotions, but you adore him because of it. Even when the two of you are arguing you know exactly how he feels, and it often leads to quicker resolutions because neither of you are afraid of communicating. 

As you slide into your seat far away from the friends and family box, where many other significant others and their families are enjoying the game, the person sitting next to you gives a smile. 

“Right choice of jersey there, eh?” the older gentleman laughs, gesturing to his back to show you’re wearing the same jersey. 

It’s a Giroux reverse retro, with all the trimmings that made the 2007 cup run so spectacular even if G wasn’t anywhere near Ottawa, and it’s your most prized possession. Thomas had gifted it to you one random Sunday, and simply shrugged when you asked why. The smallest detail on the back is what makes it so special — a signature is on the bottom of the eight, along with a little smiley face. 

“I like to think so,” you reply, smiling wide at the fact this man either doesn’t know who you are or doesn’t care. “And I think the boys are going to come out guns-a-blazing.”

You know this, of course, because the energy flowing through your home and the homes of other Senators has been electric through the holiday break, but you aren’t going to spill that secret. The man returns your grin tenfold. “I certainly hope so. I didn’t come all the way across the province in a snowstorm to watch them lose.”

⭒⭑⭒

Lose they do not. The Sens play their hearts out, keeping up with the slightly sloppy hockey Boston played. New teammates are becoming more and more like brothers as the seasons plods along, and it’s beginning to show — every single line has undeniable chemistry that’s palpable everywhere in the arena, including the press box. It’s all the beat reporters can write about, and the public can’t get enough of the content, allowing the guys to focus on playing hockey, which is what they do best. 

The game is scoreless through a period and a half, and then the floodgates open. It’s a constant flip-flop of goals being scored, with neither team ever eeking ahead to grab a hold of the lead. Thomas continues to be the playmaker he is, passing when the time is right, connecting on clean hits, and eventually bagging an assist. It’s a relatively quiet third period, with most of the action happening in the neutral zone, but you’re on the edge of your seat as the clock winds down. Regulation ends with a tie, and you bounce your leg up and down rapidly while Thomas gets instructions from the coaching staff on how he should proceed through the first shift of overtime.

“Nervous?”

It’s your seat neighbour, eyes holding a look of fond curiosity. He’s showing no obvious signs of concern of distress, and truly looks like he’s going to enjoy what’s coming. “You look like you might puke.”

A small laugh bubbles from your throat. “I loathe OT,” you explain, “It’s so nerve wracking.”

“If you’re going to hurl, please try not to get it on my shoes. My daughter bought them for me as a Christmas gift with her first pay cheque.”

You don’t get a chance to respond, to assure him you won’t actually be sick despite the clamminess creeping into your skin, because the puck drops and the clock starts counting down. Five minutes is an awfully long time when there’s only three players a side and changes happen less frequently. Thomas is on the ice for nearly two minutes before he’s able to come off — somehow he has the puck more than anyone else, taking the occasional shot but mostly keeping it away from the rapidly tiring Boston forwards. You watch with bated breath, bracing yourself for the overwhelming emotions of elation or despair, depending on which net the puck lands in. To the surprise of almost everyone, Talbot stops every shot that comes his way, and the overtime period yields no results. 

Before your friend for the night can even open his mouth you’re firing words out of your mouth so quickly they almost don’t make sense. “I fucking hate shootouts and they better win or lose before Chabby has to go up.”

It’s common knowledge that Thomas isn’t confident in shootout situations, and though he’s actively working on it, they only happen every-so-often. He can’t seem to muster the swagger of Brady or the pure skill of Tim, and opposing goalies can read him from miles away. You hope he doesn’t have to step up to the plate because you know if he’s the reason the team loses Thomas will hold it on his shoulders for weeks. 

“Looks like it’ll be DeBrincat, Stütlze, and Batherson.” You barely hear what’s being said to you, ears ringing so loud it’s almost unbearable. 

No air leaves your lungs as you watch Alex get ready. It’s only once his puck buries itself in the back of the net do you exhale, and even then it’s shallow — the lead could be nullified in a matter of seconds. Luckily it’s not, and you slowly return to your normal breathing pattern. Tim misses, but so does DeBrusk, and when Batherson narrowly misses victory is so close you can almost taste it. Never in your life have you wanted Patrice Bergeron to fumble so badly, and there’s a prick in your heart for wishing ill on one of Thomas’s friends, but you need the Senators to win. The team needs the confidence boost of beating the team with the best record in the entire league. 

The ten seconds of Bergeron’s attempt pass in slow motion, and when Talbot closes his glove around the puck you’re out of your seat, jumping up and down and screaming at the top of your lungs. You can’t believe the team pulled it off, and you cheers the people around you with an empty water bottle you’ve been holding on to since the second intermission. As your boyfriend skates towards centre ice to celebrate with his teammates he raises his stick in your general direction — not knowing exactly where you are but knowing you’ll know who the gesture was for.

People don’t linger for long, wanting to try and beat the traffic, so you wish the man who kept you company safe travels as he sneaks past and watch the crowd disperse. You stay until the stars of the game take to the ice and chuckle when DeBrincat nearly trips over the bench on his way to the dressing room corridor. With a rapidly depopulating section and a clear pathway to the corridor that takes you down to ice level, you gather your jacket and walk at a leisurely pace. No one will bother you anyways if they do recognize your face from the occasional social media post, and you silently thank the late Bryan Murray for drafting Thomas to a city with such a respect for privacy. 

Once you’re safely in the hallway outside the dressing room a small group of children swarm you. A couple of seasons ago you became the unofficial team sitter, offering your house up when exhausted parents needed a break, and the baby senators adore you. You pick them up and spin them around one at a time before giving a quick hug and suggesting they find their families so they can go home. There’s no sign of Thomas, but you don’t expect there to be, so you busy yourself by firing off a few texts to those who might want an update on your evening. 

Wish you could have come! You send to your grandfather, who was supposed to make the journey up but came down with the flu. 

Your mom gets Waiting to say goodnight to Tom before going home and calling it a night. The stress of all that extra time drained me lol!

Friends get some variation of Were you watching??! Holy shit and a few even get gifs that encapsulate your pride. 

The shadow of your boyfriend appears from the doorway, and the tired smile that rises on his features at the sight of you makes your heart melt. Fresh out of the shower, Thomas smells like home, and you’re glad you decided to wait him out before travelling across the suburb to the house you’ve shared for nearly half a decade. Your arms find his waist and you hold him close, letting him place a kiss on your temple before pulling back to talk to him for the first time in hours. 

“Hell of a game, eh?”

“Yeah,” Thomas smiles, “It was. Where did you sit today?”

“Near the front of 324,” you reply before reaching up to brush a stray hair behind his ear. “I’m beat. All that excitement gave me a few premature greys and zapped all my energy. Just wanted to say goodnight before I left since I can guarantee I’ll be asleep when you get home.”

He laughs, and you know it came from his stomach because it’s loud and strong. “You can’t wait up an extra thirty minutes for me? I just have a short media slot and then I’m out of here.”

Stubbornly you shake your head. “Go out and celebrate with the boys! You all deserve to relish the win and unwind a little. I think I overheard some of the girls say they wanted to make the trip downtown to Earl of Sussex once more before it closes.” 

Thomas shakes his head almost feverishly, as if he’s afraid being casual won’t convey his distaste for being anywhere you aren’t. He places a chaste kiss to your lips before beginning to walk away, knowing Brady is going to give him shit for being late to their interview.

“I’ll see you at home sweetheart.”

⭑⭒⭑

You’re tucked away in the upstairs bathroom brushing your teeth when the door unlocks. It’s scary how fast Thomas got home, exactly thirty-five minutes after you left the arena, and you have no doubt speed limits were ignored. 

“Tommy?” you call down the dimly lit staircase, “Can you bring me a glass of water when you come up?”

There’s no reply, but you hear the lightswitch in the kitchen flip on and the faucet running. Lights periodically turn on and off as he moves around the first floor, placing things in their proper spots and making sure the rooms remain tidy. If there’s one thing your boyfriend is, it’s someone who needs order and cleanliness. Footsteps finally pad up the stairs, muffled by the socks still on his feet, just as you’re pulling back the covers to slip under. It still takes Thomas a minute or two to enter the bedroom because he stops to use the washroom and hangs his suit with the growing collection in the hall closet that needs to go to the dry cleaners. 

Head in a crossword puzzle and the glasses you only wear in the house slipping down the bridge of your nose, you offer a gentle smile when Thomas pulls the pyjama bottoms he’s worn for the past few nights out from under his pillow. Neither of you speak while he settles in beside you, grabbing the crime novel you got him for Christmas from his nightstand and tucking you into his side. Your head rests on his chest, and you hold the pen in your mouth when not filling in spaces so you can keep a chilled hand on his bare stomach because he’s the human embodiment of a furnace and you need to feel your fingers.

The dull hum of the ceiling fan is the only noise in the house beside the pair of you breathing in tandem. Occasionally there’s the sound of a page flipping, but Thomas reads at a slower pace than you and he keeps getting distracted by your grumbling about how the clues don’t make any sense. 

“I think it’s agape,” Thomas offers with a shrug. “Nothing else fits.”

You shake your head a few too many times and end up knocking it on his shoulder. “I’ve tried but it doesn’t fit.” To demonstrate your point you ghost the pen over the blank boxes, not leaving a mark.

A laugh erupts from the body propping you up, and you feel it trickle down your spine. “That would be because you’re spelling it wrong.”

“Fuck.”

“You must be really tired.”

Instead of responding you let out a yawn, and it forces Thomas to follow. Without a word, you both put away your respective nighttime activities and turn off the lamps illuminating the room. Bathed in darkness you’re able to bury into the mountain of pillows you sleep with and close your eyes. The soft thumps of your boyfriend fluffing his pillows lets you know he’ll also be in deep slumber soon enough, and you don’t feel guilty about not extending the cuddle session. Sleep is a solo sport, and while you love Thomas to death you don’t want him constricting your movements in the night because his arms are too tight around you — luckily he agrees, and almost every night ends with a sweet kiss before you turn in your respective directions for the night.

As hell settles in for a night of deep rest, with the option to sleep in given a later call time for the travel to Washington, Thomas mumbles into the darkness, “Goodnight, mon chou.”

The term of endearment makes your stomach flutter for a split second before it rests there, blooming like a garden and warming your insides. 

“Night, Tom. I love you.”

He’s already dozing off, and you doubt he comprehended what you said. You follow shortly after, a smile on your face as the realization sinks in that no matter how much of a high Thomas is running on with his career, he’d rather spend the downtime quietly with you than with anyone else.

⭒⭑⭒

enjoy this fic? give it a reblog :) <3

[ottawalucycleaningservices]

Lucy Cleaning Services: Your Trusted Partner for Move-In, Move-Out, and Shampoo Carpet Cleaning in Ottawa

Moving into a new home or preparing to move out can be a daunting task, filled with excitement but also the stress of ensuring everything is clean and pristine. At Lucy Cleaning Services, we understand the importance of a fresh start in a clean environment, whether you're settling into a new place or bidding farewell to your current one. With our specialized services in move-in cleaning, move-out cleaning, and shampoo carpet cleaning, we ensure that your transition is smooth and worry-free.

Move-In Cleaning Services: Welcoming You to a Spotless Home

Moving into a new home is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming, especially when faced with the task of cleaning before you unpack. Lucy Cleaning Services offers comprehensive move-in cleaning solutions tailored to meet your needs. Our team of professional cleaners is equipped with the expertise and tools to tackle every corner of your new space, ensuring that it is fresh, sanitized, and ready for you to make it your own.

Our move-in cleaning checklist includes:

Detailed Dusting and Wiping: From ceiling fans to baseboards, we remove dust and cobwebs, ensuring a clean start.

Kitchen Cleaning: We thoroughly clean and sanitize countertops, cabinets, appliances, and sinks to provide you with a pristine kitchen from day one.

Bathroom Sanitization: Our cleaners pay special attention to bathrooms, scrubbing tiles, disinfecting surfaces, and ensuring fixtures sparkle.

Floor Care: Whether it's hardwood, tile, or carpet, we vacuum, mop, or steam clean to leave your floors looking immaculate.

Window and Mirror Cleaning: We clean windows, mirrors, and glass surfaces to let the light shine into your new home.

Customized Services: We understand that every home is unique, so we offer customizable cleaning services to address specific needs or preferences you may have.

With Lucy Cleaning Services, you can step into your new home with confidence, knowing that every corner has been meticulously cleaned to our high standards. Our commitment to excellence ensures that your move-in experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Move-Out Cleaning Services: Leaving Your Old Home in Pristine Condition

Moving out of a home requires leaving it in excellent condition for the next occupants or for the landlord inspection. Lucy Cleaning Services specializes in move-out cleaning services designed to restore your home to its original cleanliness and ensure a smooth transition for all parties involved. Our thorough approach and attention to detail guarantee that your old home will be left looking its best.

Our move-out cleaning checklist includes:

Comprehensive Cleaning: We clean all rooms, including bedrooms, living areas, kitchens, and bathrooms, ensuring every surface is spotless.

Appliance Cleaning: We clean inside and outside of appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, and microwaves to leave them looking like new.

Cabinet and Drawer Cleaning: We clean and sanitize cabinets, drawers, and shelves, removing any remaining items and ensuring they are ready for the next occupants.

Fixture Polishing: We polish fixtures such as faucets and handles to remove water spots and fingerprints, leaving them sparkling.

Floor and Carpet Cleaning: We vacuum, mop, or shampoo carpets and floors to remove dirt, dust, and stains, leaving them fresh and clean.

Wall and Baseboard Cleaning: We wipe down walls and clean baseboards to remove any marks or scuffs, ensuring a clean and presentable appearance.

Final Inspection: Before you hand over the keys, we perform a final inspection to ensure that every area meets our high standards of cleanliness.

Lucy Cleaning Services understands the importance of leaving a positive impression when moving out, whether you're a tenant or a homeowner. Our move-out cleaning services are designed to make the process as stress-free as possible, allowing you to focus on the next chapter of your life with peace of mind.

Shampoo Carpet Cleaning: Revitalizing Your Carpets for a Fresh Look

Carpets can accumulate dirt, dust, and stains over time, affecting the overall appearance and cleanliness of your home. Lucy Cleaning Services offers professional shampoo carpet cleaning services in Ottawa to restore your carpets to their original beauty. Our advanced cleaning techniques and eco-friendly products effectively lift dirt and stains, leaving your carpets clean, fresh, and revitalized.

Our shampoo carpet cleaning process includes:

Pre-Inspection: We assess the condition of your carpets to determine the best cleaning approach and identify any areas that may require special attention.

Pre-Treatment: We apply a pre-treatment solution to loosen dirt and stains embedded in the carpet fibers, preparing them for thorough cleaning.

Shampooing: Using state-of-the-art equipment, we shampoo the carpets to agitate and lift dirt and stains to the surface.

Extraction: We use powerful extraction equipment to remove dirt, water, and cleaning solution from the carpets, leaving them clean and nearly dry.

Spot Treatment: We treat any remaining spots or stains with specialized cleaning solutions to ensure a thorough cleaning result.

Drying: We use air movers to accelerate the drying process, allowing you to enjoy your freshly cleaned carpets as soon as possible.

Our shampoo carpet cleaning services are safe for all types of carpets and are performed by trained professionals who prioritize quality and customer satisfaction. Whether you're preparing for a move-in, refreshing your home, or maintaining cleanliness, Lucy Cleaning Services is your reliable partner for carpet cleaning in Ottawa.

Why Choose Lucy Cleaning Services?

At Lucy Cleaning Services, we are committed to providing exceptional cleaning services with a focus on quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Here’s why you can trust us with your move-in, move-out, and carpet cleaning needs:

Experienced Professionals: Our cleaning teams are trained, experienced, and dedicated to delivering superior results with every service.

Customized Cleaning Plans: We offer flexible and customizable cleaning plans to meet your specific needs and preferences.

Quality Assurance: We maintain high standards of cleanliness and conduct thorough inspections to ensure that our work exceeds your expectations.

Environmentally Friendly Practices: We use eco-friendly cleaning products and practices whenever possible to promote sustainability and ensure safety for you and your family.

Responsive Customer Service: We are committed to excellent customer service, and our friendly staff are always available to address your questions and concerns.

Competitive Pricing: We offer competitive pricing for our services, providing value for your investment in professional cleaning.

Whether you're moving into a new home, preparing to move out, or seeking to refresh your carpets, Lucy Cleaning Services is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your cleaning service and experience the difference a clean home can make.

[newsbites]

News from Newfoundland and Labrador, 14 July

1. Police continue to investigate stabbing in St Johns in Topsail Road.

A 34-year-old man was seriously injured in a stabbing in the west end of St. John’s.

The assault took place between Bay Bulls Road and Topsail Road.

Police are urging anyone with information or video footage of the area during the specified time to come forward.

2. A man from Bell Island is facing charges after being caught on 12 July with drugs in a car which was pulled over for speeding.  He was driving while his licence was suspended and showing signs of driving impaired.

3. Near miss at Braya refinery.  A Stop-work order has not been issued by the department. 

Occupational Health and Safety is investigating a "near-miss" incident at the Braya refinery in Come By Chance, involving drilling on a repurposed line that had previously been in nitrogen service.

The line was not in service or under pressure at the time of the incident, and internal analysis was conducted before sharing the findings with OHS and employees.

This incident comes almost a year after a fatal explosion at the refinery, which resulted in a criminal negligence investigation by the RCMP.

4.  Clean-up underway after an unexpected tornado in Half Moon Bay.

5. Electrically-serviced campsites in loops A and B of Newman Sound Campground in Terra Nova Park are currently without power.

6. Oceana Canada is concerned about DFO’s failure to close Capelin Fishery [via VOCM].

OC says that the Canadian government, specifically the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), is not effectively incorporating climate change data and research into fisheries management decisions, which is exacerbating the depletion of fish stocks.

7. Candidate Tony Wakeham is releasing his healthcare plan for connecting residents with a primary provider for healthcare.

Tony Wakeham's health care plan focuses on improving access to timely care in Newfoundland and Labrador by connecting every resident with a primary health care provider and establishing family health care teams.

The plan prioritizes job offers to health care professionals at the beginning of their training to address the shortage of healthcare providers in the province.

Wakeham emphasizes the urgency of addressing the lack of access to health care and believes that waiting for the long-term vision of the Health Accord is not feasible for the province.

8. Musgrave Harbour failed to respond to two access to information requests, the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner has found [per VOCM].

9. It is peak tourism for Newfoundland and Labrador right now. Business has picked up but the sector still faces challenges, including air access [per VOCM].

Small businesses in the hospitality industry, such as restaurants and tour companies, are relying on a busy summer season to help cover costs and repay loans taken out during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Staffing shortages, inflation, and rising food prices are adding to the challenges faced by businesses in the summer, but increased tourism can help offset these difficulties.

Business owners are implementing strategies such as menu changes, hiring immigrants, and raising prices to adapt to the current economic conditions and make the most of the summer season.

[ryttu3k]

Gonna play the new Parliament of Knives DLC as a Malkavian!

"I am of Clan Malkavian: enigmatic and shrewd, feared and grudgingly respected. A traveler shadows my path—an ethereal companion whom only I can perceive. Disciplines: Dominate, Obfuscate, Auspex. (Recommended for experienced players who have already completed the game once.)"

...By which I mean I'm playing Sascha. I'll be playing Sascha as Malkavian, with the Dracon as the unseen companion. (They're gonna join the Sabbat, natch.) (Look it makes sense for the narrative. Corliss and Symeon would probably have a lot to talk about.)

Big spoilers for the Malk-specific storyline, content warning for memory manipulation.

Backgrounds for a Malk - university professor, paramedic, or actor. Went with the professor, boosted intelligence and manipulation and the other two super didn't fit.

"Oh, hell," Dracon mutters. "Dick move, Lang. If anything should be questioned, it's his choice in robes. Blood-red? At this time of year?"

ngl the modern - and snarky - commentary the companion can have is lowkey hilarious when you've made them an ancient methuselah. In a red leather jacket, because red is a theme.

Oh fascinating, Ophelia can apparently see him (even if she's denying it). I guess he's not just a hallucination, then?

Lucca has art now! Hi, Lucca's face!

"Uggh," Corliss grunts. "I've met Ferals more polite, and yet somehow she always manages to win us all over in the end. At least she runs a clean Elysium." She shakes her head.

Dracon grunts. "Clean is a relative term. I bet Corliss wouldn't enjoy looking over Elysium with a black light and some luminol."

Eww.

lmao was that a reference to Sins of the Sires? Yes, definitely best to steer clear of Athens!

"You know we can't leave Ottawa right now," you say. "There's enough chaos here as it is without the Seneschal's childe taking an unscheduled sabbatical."

"That's just an excuse and you know it." Dracon shimmies out of the pile of furs and drops them on the ground where they slowly fade from view. His face grows stony. Maybe even angry. "He won't let you leave and you don't even know."

"He?" you ask. "What are you talking about?"

His image twitches and reality seems to twist around it for several seconds until he's whole again. "I can't tell you."

"What do you mean, you can't tell me?" This is starting to get disturbing. You've never seen him act this way before. "You can't hide anything. You're part of me!"

And suddenly you're yelling at the empty street and Dracon is gone as if he never existed. You're used to him coming and going, but the timing of this disappearance is suspect and deeply concerning. Come to think of it, something else is odd - you can't remember Dracon ever pushing to leave the city before. But there'd been something almost desperate about this request. Something slipping, as if he was afraid and wanted to get as far away as possible.

Intriguing :o I wonder if a Malk PC's companion has anything to do with Arundel's memory manipulations?

Ooh, Lucca has her own plotline now. Neat! I kind of want her to meet Benoit (and fight him).

Three parishioners kneel before an altar veiled by a delicate black fabric bearing the symbol of a stylized crown. You could swear you've seen it before but can't quite place it. You see no sign of whoever had cried out, and the praying mortals don't seem to have noticed or been bothered by it enough to be moved from their supplications. Lucca hisses when she sees the banner, but she says nothing, only watches intently as a tall, thin man in priest's robes approaches the altar. His vestments have been dyed a bright royal purple, emblazoned with dazzlingly intricate white embroidery. He greets his flock with a predatory smile, eyes flashing in the candlelight with silent yearning.

"Father Moretti," the woman in the center of the trio says as she lowers her head ever further, as though she dare not gaze into the priest's eyes. "Will you bless us, tonight?" The request is chased by an eerie moaning from the other two kneeling parishioners. Your senses catch fire with a bestial desire. The smell of blood radiates from Moretti in invisible waves, leaving you momentarily stunned.

You're starting to get a pretty good idea of what's going on here.

Ten bucks says Lasombra Sabbat!

Moretti looks like he's going to laugh again, but his expression suddenly goes cold. "You're serious?" He pauses in thought. "Then you must be little Lucca! The old man told me a lot about you before he died. How he saved you - hauled you back from the brink of oblivion. I think he regretted his choice of words when the darkness swallowed him up."

Oh that's rude as hell. One thing to say for V5, making threats about Oblivion does work better than threats about Obtenebration.

"Dracon?" you ask. "Is that you?"

"For now." Yes, you can see him now - the light is dimming. "I can only protect you for so long. The bars are getting stronger and the light will swallow us up. I don't know how much longer I can fight it."

"What are you talking about? What is the light?"

"Revelation."

"A truth, then? Why protect me from the truth?"

Dracon shakes his head "The truth is a prison you can't escape and I'm the only thing standing in its way. I can't let that happen to you again..."

Oh fascinating. The companion as someone trying to protect the Malk PC from an unpleasant truth - what Corliss and Arundel did, maybe?

Sweet, relationship with Ward is good enough that he told the truth about the exhibition. Honestly, I'm aiming for Sabbat but Anarch is a solid second choice here.

"Don't look at me," Dracon says with a shrug. "I haven't been listening since the second time the kid said the word 'soulmate.' If we drink from him, do you think we'll start writing shitty poetry and three-chord love songs? I'm down if you are."

"I'm sorry, what did you ask?" you say, pointing at the stage. "It's a bit loud in here."

"I asked if you've ever lost a soulmate?" he says. "The person you know you were meant to be with."

"This really needs to be a drinking game," Dracon says. "We'd die a second time, but from alcohol poisoning."

*snorts*

Oh neat, Basaras has art now. I am... admittedly very leery about him, Jewish rep in VtM has, um, been a bit hit and miss XD;;

Aw man decisions decisions. I want to see what's up with Lucca and continue the possible Sabbat storyline, but Haidt has ancient texts... okay, Lucca it is.

Yeah I can definitely see why a practising Catholic would have issues with the Lasombra!

"You've seen him too! You know where he's hiding."

Caught off-guard by the strange suggestion, you're dumbstruck for several seconds before you can reply. Maybe she really can see Dracon! "See who?" you ask carefully.

"Arundel, of course," she says. "I can see the signs of his work all over you. But if you were part of the plan, why he didn't tell me?"

"Plan?" you ask. "What plan?"

Ophelia watches you closely, meticulous eyes marking your every facial twitch and expression as she reads you. "You really don't know," she says, a touch of disappointment in the voice. "Something is blocking you. Holding you back. It's that creature, isn't it? The one shadowing your footsteps."

"I knew she could see me!" Dracon says. "But what the hell is she talking about?"

Oh intriguing.

Ophelia frowns. "My point is that you are wearing a blindfold entirely of your own design. Your aura is radiant - you possess the ability to see beyond sight - and yet you choose to hide in the darkness!" She composes herself and brushes her hair back from her shoulder with delicate fingers. "Let the light in, childe. It really is that simple."

Hmm. Did the Malk PC invent the companion to protect their mind?

Dracon shakes his head. "You know Ophelia's tricks, Sascha - you've read Corliss's files. Don't let her get in your head. It's how she operates. She thinks she's sown a seed in your mind, and you know what?"

"What?"

"She's right. 'Cause I can see that sprout already starting to grow. The light she was talking about? It would nurture that plant of hers until its thorns tear you apart - then she'll come to you offering a solution to the very problem she caused. That kind of 'light' is bad news, Sascha. Trust me."

Man. Two fascinating elements to play with, here - the Malk clan story, and the Lasombra stuff with Lucca. Both neat angles.

"It's beautiful, isn't it?" Dracon asks. He's standing beside you, staring out over the peaks of steel and glass - the bones and skin of the only home you've ever known. "There's so much I've never seen, Sascha. So many wonders I'll never know." He looks over to you. "What do you think it's like? The sun?"

Man. That feels in-character.

"The truth is that the barriers are breaking down faster than I can build them." The sun grows warmer as it rises above the skyline, back-lighting the city-scape until it stands as pure obsidian - a black set of jagged, diseased teeth. The warmth is no longer comforting. In fact, you're burning up. "What barriers?" you ask. You raise a hand in a vain attempt to shield yourself from the light. Your skin is starting to blister and peel away, leaving only brittle white bone in its wake as flesh sloughs to the ground. "What barriers?!"

The brilliance pierces you, lances of light cutting to your very spirit, stripping worldly excess until all that remains is a glistening shard. The core of you.

You begin to remember. The villa. The training. All of it coming back in waves. And at the heart of it is Prince Arundel. Always Arundel fanning the fires of your spirit, breaking and re-making you until the end of time. Until he makes you whole again.

The sun winks out.

...whew.

And he doesn't remember any of that in the morning? Fascinating. If the companion is a construct of the Malk PC, then it could be an unconscious/suppressed memory thing, but if they are their own individual, maybe it's only in dreams/other odd moments that they're able to slip past the Dominate memory removal?

Back to Lucca! Her gift sounds interesting as hell, honestly. Wonder what Corliss' is?

The synagogue looms over the sidewalk, darkened windows staring out at the streets of Ottawa with hostility, as though all joy has been drained from within its walls, leaving only malice and deep-seated resentment. You're certain that this was once a place of celebration and worship, but that was before Basaras arrived. After seeing what Father Moretti did to St. Anthony of Padua, you can only wonder what Basaras has wrought here.

I want him out >:(

"Of course," Dracon says. "Why not make things even more dangerous? Let's hoof it into the dark, shadow-filled tunnel when there's a Lasombra assassin lurking around. Great fun."

Naturally XD

The companion immediately refutes that Corliss may not be the PC's sire. Interesting.

"The truth..." Dracon says. "Always the truth, with you! A mortal can drown in truth, but with eternal life you can never really drown. You just get washed away and never come back. Lost forever."

You shake your head. "I don't understand what you mean."

"You will."

Oof.

"This is a mistake," Dracon says with what almost feels like a whimper. "But I guess I couldn't keep you safe forever." And suddenly he's gone—you can't feel his presence anywhere in your mind. This isn't the first time something like this has happened, and you know he'll come back once he's worked through whatever it is he's working through, but the sudden emptiness makes you feel numb. What is he so worried about and why does he want to keep it from you so badly?

Is the companion *literally* the memory block? Like the personification of it?

"You'd take zhim away from me?" Corliss's victim asks when she comes up for a breath, her mouth stained with thick vitae. "You thought I'd just let that go? You wouldn't even know how to use zhim!" She stabs Corliss again and twists the knife, eliciting an agonized scream before your sire manages to disengage and recover her wits.

"Everything you learned - we thought it was you doing the digging on your own!" Corliss gasps. "But it was just the childe! You're nothing, Grace! Less than nothing!"

Grace closes the gap and kicks Corliss in the ribs, sending her smashing against the window, cracking it with the weight of the blow. "I was unstoppable before the shielding! I was always in control!" She kicks her again, bloody froth coming to her lips as she grinds her teeth with fury.

Ooh man that's more detail, I think.

She points at you. "Zhe's the one! The childe we've been looking for. We can salvage this, Arundel. Zhe's ours, now!"

Somewhere in the back of your mind you can hear Dracon urging you to run. But it's not Dracon as you know him today. He's simpler when viewed through the memory. Less experienced. More of an instinct than any real personality. Oh, how he's grown over the years.

Arundel strokes his chin thoughtfully. "You may be right," he says after several seconds while he looks you over like a prime cut of meat. We'll need a cover story. The childe is useless to us if we can't keep zhim out in the open where zhe can use zhir gift."

So their mindwipe and adoption by Corliss wasn't just random, oh whoops Grace's childe saw the whole thing, better cover it up? I wonder if this is a Malk-specific thing too, or if this is a new change in the old scene.

"That's what it looks like, yes," Dracon says. "I was so sure that you'd lose yourself when his instructions were revealed."

"So you hid the memory from me," you say. "You're saying you did it to protect me?"

"To protect us. And I can't outright hide memories, either - if you really wanted to know, then you'd know."

...makes sense. Still, how was Ophelia able to sense him? And what are these gifts?

"Something is blocking you from reaching your true potential. A construct living in your mind. We Children of Malkav are blessed with gifts beyond that of other Kindred. We have insight into other worlds, other slices of reality. I see a recurring obsession in you that nearly mirrors my own: a fascination with the concept of 'truth.' You could be so much more than you are now and I can show you the way. But first, you must exorcise this demon from your mind. Make no mistake - it is enemy, not friend."

Hm. Yeah, Ophelia definitely sees the companion as malicious.

"Sometimes people hide things from themselves," you say. "It doesn't take an elder like Arundel to manipulate memories when you can do it to yourself."

"And so, what, you want to listen to Ophelia and... kill me off just to learn something you already know? Did you ever consider that if there's something hidden in your subconscious, that it may be hidden from me, too? Or that it's hidden for a very good reason?"

I'm... getting a vibe of how with DID, people talk about reintegration of alters formed from trauma?

Yeah going the slightly more violent option in siding with the Anarchs. Since. Well. Silchester XD;;

Dracon runs his palm along the column, eyes unfocused as if he's lost in thought. He looks back toward the road, then over to the river flowing quietly past the villa. "This relationship between us," he says. The words are slow, drawn out with a great weight, a deeper meaning than you're able to understand. "We were born here, in a way." His gaze reaches your own and for a moment you stare into each others' eyes. "At least this incarnation. Maybe it's finally time for us to return to where it all started." And then he's gone, ghostly form blown away by the wind. The empty air speaks. "Be on your guard. I can't protect you inside this place."

Oh dang, Arundel did have something to do with him?

"Hey," Ward says. His curious shift in tone causes you to turn and look at him. "I'm glad you decided to do this with me. Arundel and I go way back. Sevinc can't understand that, or maybe she doesn't want to. I don't know. But for some reason Arundel thought that you were special. Important. He put the key to finding him inside your brain. In his own weird way, that's trust."

Yeah that is giving me vibes of like. The Eldest going, "Hey, you're going to be the protector of my most beloved childe! That's trust!" and poor Myca being, "Thanks.........."

Ah. Well. That was not Haidt this time.

"We're in Athens - the Erechtheion to be specific. You said that you wanted to visit Europe and I've always been fascinated by the Acropolis. This was the best I could do on short notice. At first I was thinking of taking us to Prague, but the city's been a bit of an uncomfortable place for Kindred lately. Not that Athens is much better; I hear the Prince here is a real piece of work."

lmao that's a reference to Bloodhunt and Sins of the Sires. Super curious what you get if you say you want to visit, say, Australia.

A small crack forms in the sky above and a soft feminine voice filters through, somehow sounding close enough to be right beside you, yet simultaneously everywhere and nowhere. "He's hiding the truth, Sascha," Ophelia says. "Selfishly blocking out your true nature so he can live out this fantasy in your mind."

"Don't listen to her," Dracon cautions you. "She doesn't understand half of what's going on in here."

"You have to let go," Ophelia says from above. "Dracon isn't real. He's a way to hide the terrible truth and even more terrible power. Your true sire locked your abilities away before Corliss could steal you from her. She created a personality construct as a gatekeeper."

Oof, so Grace created him. To hide... what?

"At first they weren't," Dracon says. "But then they realized something right before that memory of yours kicked in. You even heard them talking about it while you were under. The power they were looking for wasn't Grace's at all - it was yours."

You shake your head. "That's ridiculous. If I'm so powerful, why haven't they been able to use me? I'm no better than any Malkavian with a few decades of experience under their belt. What am I missing?"

Dracon looks down at his feet. "Corliss couldn't access your abilities. Neither could Arundel. If they'd been able to, your un-life would have been a lot different. You'd be nothing more than a tool."

"So what stopped them?" you ask. "Two of the most powerful Kindred in the country couldn't force a fledgling to do their bidding? I don't buy it."

Dracon looks back up at you, eyes smoldering red coals. "They failed because I was standing in their way."

Or not.

Aww man so many choices!

True ability: being able to see through altered memories. That's... pertinent.

Wow Grace is a piece of work!

Oh that's not a fun choice. Biiiig big decision here. I imagine there's probably an achievement for both, so. I guess I'll see what that comes to in another run!

Yep, there's the achievement for one of them :(

"A fair question, all things considered." Arundel retrieves two additional boxes of ammo from the hollow and checks over his weapon while he speaks. It's daunting how quickly he's gone from a paralyzed cadaver to an all-business killing machine. "Aside from my departed mortal guests, the only Kindred who knew about this getaway of mine was my beloved Eden Corliss, herself. Present company excluded."

You sense something strange when Arundel speaks - a sensation you haven't felt in the waking world for quite some time. The Prince's memory has been altered! Someone else knew about his hidden sanctum, but erased his memory of that knowledge. You see the floating image of a crown. Another Prince, perhaps?

Oooh. Annabelle, maybe?

Oh yeah a city run by Ventrue and Malkavians definitely would have a lot. Of altered memories.

Well, that's the Malk version of the Golden Ending, looks like! Didn't get to finish Lucca's story arc - I think I'd have to romance her for that, same as how I only got Jordan's full arc with a romance and haven't done Qui's yet - or the Sabbat, but there will be other runs! Loved the Malk storyline, that's cool as hell.

Final stats: 0 in Strength, Dexterity, and Stamina lmao, 0 in Resolve whoops, 3 in Composure, 4 in Charisma, Manipulation, and Intelligence, 5 in Wits. Personality scores ended up being 51:49 Ruthless to Cordial (gotta be polite!), 59:41 Subversive to Loyal.

Neat as hell. Probably won’t do a run with Sascha and the Dracon again, but definitely doing another Malk run, and this time doing the opposite choice. Also still to do: a Lasombra run (still haven’t done the leaving-Ottawa-with-Anarchs ending, that could be fun with them), a Lucca romance run, still got to work out how to do a Sabbat run, and still haven’t done a Qui run.

[if-you-fan-a-fire]

"For six days, the internees demonstrated and struck against the administrators of Petawawa before a transfer was arranged to the Hull prison (now Gatineau, Quebec).

Hull prison was a white elephant built by the first Duplessis government in the late 1930s. It had never been used since it did not meet provincial standards. Quebec’s Public Works minister, Télésphore-Damien Bouchard, arranged the rental of the facility when the federal government looked for a facility for the communist internees. On August 20, the transfer took place, not without overwrought drama from the authorities. The Petawawa prisoners, 85 strong, were loaded into five trucks with two machine gunners each, each truck separated by armed men on motorcycles, who escorted them to the train in Petawawa making its regular run east on the Ontario side of the Ottawa Valley. The men occupied special cars, again supervised by soldiers with machine guns. The train arrived half an hour late on August 20, 1941 at 6:40 p.m. at the Brewery Creek station in Hull, just west of Hull Island. A considerable crowd of onlookers had gathered to greet the train. They were no doubt curious owing to the army trucks and the presence of RCMP, provincial police, and municipal policemen. After disembarking, the men were loaded anew into army trucks, and accompanied by police escort to their new home at the northern end of Saint-François Street. Spirits among the men were good; after all, they had won a victory by their political agitating at Petawawa. Le Droit reported that the men were singing ‘It’s a long way to Tipperary’, a traditional wartime song, during their trip from the train station in Hull to the prison.

The men’s mood changed when they realized that their new camp was actually a prison. Norman Freed spoke for the men. “We’re not going into a political dungeon — don’t move, fellows!”, Freed declaimed. Tension mounted between the men and the soldiers. An hour or so later, the ranking officers came out of the prison, having spoken by phone to their superiors in Ottawa. They advised the men that this was their facility, which they were to operate free from military intervention, and that they could come and see for themselves. Freed and others went in, checked out the prison, and returned to tell the rest of the detainees that things were going to be alright, that they should enter the facility.

The Army was true to its word. The cells on each side of the floors were unlocked. The cells were each occupied by two internees, who slept on bunk beds. At the south end of each floor was a common room, which the internees could use for recreation purposes. The guards stayed outside the prison walls. They were members of the  Veterans’ Home Guard, units that had been formed of veterans of World War I and even  of the Boer War, often local men. The maximum age of these soldiers was supposedly fifty, but this requirement was often not respected.

The internees were free to come and go within the prison. There was an outside exercise compound, a rest area with trees and grass, a community hall, and a communal kitchen and dining area. The entire administration was in the hands of the internees, who organized themselves into teams for cooking, serving, cleaning, and other household work. The sudden nature of the transfer meant that much of the Hull prison was not yet completely organized; for instance, kitchen, laundry room, even mattresses. The heating and hot water did not always function, but when a new commandant, Major Thompson, replaced the original commandant, Major Green, improvements were made, such as fencing an enclosure adjacent to the prison in which the internees could play softball and volleyball. 

The internees wore blue pants with a red strip down the sides, and a blue shirt with a circular, red patch in the middle of the back. The internees joked that the red patch on the back served as a target, so that soldiers could shoot them were they to try to escape. In fact, there were no escape attempts, a matter of Party policy, so as to avoid propaganda victories for the government about dangerous escapees; therefore, the utility of the red patch was never tested.

So, while Joe Wallace remained in solitary confinement in Petawawa, which had actually launched the strike that had led to the transfer to Hull, and internees Michael Sawiak and Wasyl Kolysnik remained ill in the military hospital in Pembroke near Petawawa, 85 internees settled into a routine in Hull. Of itself, being freed from harassment by the fascist internees in Petawawa represented a considerable improvement. 

In an interview with the author in 1997, Peter Krawchuk summarized his perspective about conditions in Hull:

We had lots to eat and clean facilities. We were warmly dressed. No one was beaten, and no one died in prison. We had to follow military orders and salute officers, but conditions in Canadian internment camps were not at all similar to those of German concentration camps nor of Soviet gulags.

One might hope so; after all, this was Canada!

As for morale of the internees, ex-internee Ben Swankey distinguishes two periods: before and after the German invasion of the U.S.S.R. on June 22, 1941. Before the invasion, the internees wondered whether they might ever be released from Hull. Nevertheless, they tried to maintain a positive attitude, especially by devoting themselves to studies. After the Soviet Union entered the war on the side of the allies, the internees knew they would eventually be released but it became a question of when, so their impatience and frustration grew.

….

Army policy was to treat the internees as enemy subjects, similar to Canadian internees of Italian, German, or Japanese origin. Internees could not be obliged to work on military operations. On the other hand, they were not to be paid for administrative or domestic work, however, they could receive 20¢ per hour to work on special projects. In this way, some of the men worked on work details cleaning and enlarging Saint-François Street, then a dirt road linking the prison to present-day Taché Boulevard. Most of the work done by the internees, however, was of the domestic variety, caring for each other  and their facility.

The men chose as their leader and spokesman Gerry McManus, from Saskatchewan, with Montrealer Roméo Duval as his assistant. Some of the men, including Pat Sullivan, and some of the Ukrainians, among them Peter Keweryga, were cooks by trade, so food quality was never a problem in Hull.

With all this time on their hands, the internees devoted themselves to improving themselves using books provided by the YMCA and books about Marxism smuggled clandestinely into prison, including a copy of Das Kapital. Many of the internees were blue-collar workers for whom the Communist Party had always been a prime source of instruction. So the internees studied trade unionism, Marx, and Lenin. As well, Jacob Penner taught German; bilingual Montrealer Kent Rowley taught French to anglophones  and vice-versa; Dr. Howard Lowrie of Toronto gave lectures on medicine; while Samuel  Levine, a professor of mathematics and physics at the University of Toronto, gave  lectures on science and mathematics. There were persistent group discussions about  international politics and the progress of the war. Many of the internees spoke about Hull internment camp as being their ‘university’, while the Party did emerge from the internment with better-trained leaders.

The YMCA provided the internees with musical instruments such as mandolins, guitars, and banjos. In March of 1942, the Army rented a piano for the internees. The internees took to organizing regular concerts that would feature music, poetry, especially by Joe Wallace, and comedy routines, including imitations of politicians by Napoléon Nadeau. There might be Ukrainian dancing, while the internees would be led in song by Ben Swankey, Dmitri Nikiforiak, Samuel Levine, Jean Bourget, or Ernest Gervais. Any occasion was reason enough for a celebration: St. Patrick’s Day, New Year’s Eve, the anniversary of the Russian Revolution. These celebrations would be accompanied by impressive feasts. 

….

The internees’ writings and interviews reveal surprisingly positive memories about their internment in Hull. The decent food and facilities, the adult education, the celebrations, the camaraderie and solidarity, the political purpose, even the general times of World War II all seem to leave a rosy hue to the memories of the ex-internees about their internment in Hull. Some of this might be explained by old men remembering with nostalgia the vigour and pleasures of their youth, without the attendant difficulties of the period, such as one might when recalling one’s youth spent in school or the military. Nevertheless, regardless of how the internees made the best of the situation, they were still prisoners of the state who were being held for political purposes."

- Michael Martin, The Red Patch: Political Imprisonment in Hull, Quebec during World War 2. Self-published, 2007. p. 142-146, 155

[myottawarealestate]

Bungalows have long been celebrated for their practical and charming design. Their single-story layout, accessibility, and efficient use of space make them an ideal choice for various types of homeowners. Here, we explore the numerous benefits of living in a bungalow, making a case for why these homes remain popular across generations.

Accessibility for All Ages

One of the most significant advantages of bungalow living is its accessibility. The single-story design eliminates the need for stairs, making these homes ideal for:

Seniors and Retirees: For older adults, the lack of stairs means reduced risk of falls and easier navigation around the home. This design can allow seniors to age in place comfortably.

Families with Young Children: Parents appreciate the safety of a single-level home, where young children can move freely without the hazard of stairs. It's easier to keep an eye on children, and there's less worry about accidents.

Individuals with Mobility Issues: Bungalows are highly suitable for those with mobility challenges, as they offer easy access to all areas of the home. Wider doorways and open floor plans can further enhance accessibility.

For a comprehensive discussion on accessibility and parking considerations, check out my article on Accessibility, Parking, and Access in the Ottawa Bungalow Market.

Ease of Maintenance

Bungalows are generally easier to maintain than multi-story homes. The compact, single-level design simplifies many aspects of home upkeep, including:

Cleaning: With no stairs, cleaning is more straightforward and less physically demanding. Everything is on one level, reducing the time and effort required.

Repairs and Renovations: Whether it's painting, roofing, or general repairs, bungalows are easier and often less expensive to work on due to their single-story structure. Exterior maintenance, such as gutter cleaning or window washing, is more accessible without the need for tall ladders or scaffolding.

Energy Efficiency: Bungalows can be more energy-efficient due to their smaller size and simpler layout. Heating and cooling a single level is often more cost-effective, and it’s easier to implement energy-saving upgrades. For more on this topic, read my article on Eco-Friendly Abodes: Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Bungalows.

Efficient Use of Space

Bungalows are known for their efficient use of space, offering:

Open Floor Plans: The open layout creates a sense of spaciousness and allows for flexible use of living areas. It fosters a sense of togetherness, as there are fewer barriers between rooms.

Maximized Usable Space: Without staircases taking up room, bungalows often have more usable square footage. This design is especially beneficial in smaller homes, where every square foot counts.

Built-In Features: Many bungalows feature built-in cabinets, shelves, and seating, which maximize storage and functionality without sacrificing floor space. These built-ins add to the charm and practicality of the home.

A Cozy and Inviting Atmosphere

Bungalows are renowned for their cozy and inviting atmosphere. The combination of warm materials, thoughtful design, and intimate spaces creates a home environment that feels comfortable and welcoming. Key elements contributing to this ambiance include:

Natural Materials: The use of wood, stone, and brick adds warmth and character to the home. These materials also create a connection to nature, enhancing the overall comfort of the living space.

Architectural Details: Features such as exposed beams, built-in bookcases, and fireplaces contribute to the bungalow’s charm. These details reflect the craftsmanship and attention to detail that define bungalow architecture.

Outdoor Living Spaces: Bungalows often include inviting front porches and landscaped yards, which extend the living space outdoors. These areas are perfect for relaxing, entertaining, and enjoying the natural surroundings. For landscaping ideas, see my article on Cultivating Curb Appeal: Landscaping Ideas for Your Ottawa Bungalow.

Community and Lifestyle

Bungalows are frequently found in established neighborhoods with a strong sense of community. These areas often feature mature trees, parks, and local amenities, contributing to a desirable lifestyle. Benefits include:

Close-Knit Communities: Bungalow neighborhoods often foster a sense of community, where neighbors know each other and take pride in their homes and surroundings.

Convenient Locations: Many bungalow neighborhoods are located near schools, parks, shopping, and other amenities, making them convenient for daily living.

Historical Significance: Bungalow neighborhoods often have historical significance, adding to their charm and appeal. Living in such areas can be a source of pride and a way to preserve architectural heritage.

For a guide to finding the perfect bungalow in the right neighborhood, explore my article on Finding Your Perfect Bungalow in Ottawa: A Neighborhood Guide.

Conclusion

The benefits of living in a bungalow are numerous and diverse, appealing to a wide range of homeowners. From their accessibility and ease of maintenance to their efficient use of space and cozy atmosphere, bungalows offer a unique and desirable living experience. Whether you're a retiree looking for a comfortable and accessible home, a young family seeking a safe and practical living space, or anyone in between, a bungalow can provide the perfect blend of charm, functionality, and community.

For more insights and considerations when choosing a bungalow, you might find my comprehensive guide on Single-Story Serenity: Weighing the Pros and Cons of Bungalow Living helpful.

[atomiccowboyparadise]

Best Move Out Cleaning Service in Ottawa

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[clessenzacleaningservice]

Move-Out Cleaning Services in Ontario

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[capitalgaragedooor]

A Comprehensive Guide to Garage Door Problems in Ottawa

Greetings, Ottawa homeowners! Your garage door isn't just an entryway to your home; it's a vital component for security, convenience, and aesthetic appeal. However, like any mechanical system, garage doors can encounter issues over time. Whether it's a malfunctioning opener or a squeaky hinge, understanding common garage door problems is essential for maintaining a hassle-free entrance to your home.

In this detailed guide, we'll explore the frequently asked questions regarding garage door problems faced by Ottawa homeowners. From identifying issues to troubleshooting tips, we've got you covered. Let's delve into it!

1. What are the common garage door problems experienced by homeowners in Ottawa?

Garage door issues may vary, but certain problems are more prevalent in Ottawa due to the city's unique climate and environmental conditions. These common problems include:

Weather Stripping Wear: Ottawa's harsh winters and temperature fluctuations can lead to weather stripping deterioration, compromising energy efficiency and allowing moisture infiltration into your garage.

Frozen Garage Doors: Sub-zero temperatures can cause garage door components to freeze, resulting in difficulty opening or closing the door.

Spring Breakage: Extreme temperature changes can weaken garage door springs, leading to breakage and rendering the door inoperable.

Opener Malfunctions: Cold weather can strain garage door openers, causing malfunctions or sluggish operation.

Track Misalignment: Frost heaves and ground movement common in Ottawa can cause garage door tracks to become misaligned, hindering smooth door operation.

2. How can I identify if my garage door is experiencing problems?

Early detection of garage door issues is crucial to prevent costly repairs and ensure home safety. Look out for these signs:

Unusual Noises: Grinding, squeaking, or banging noises during door operation may indicate potential problems with the opener, springs, or tracks.

Slow or Jerky Movement: If your garage door operates slower than usual or moves in a jerky manner, it may signify issues with the opener, tracks, or springs.

Visible Damage: Inspect your garage door for signs of wear and tear, such as dented panels, frayed cables, or rusted hardware.

Difficulty Opening or Closing: Difficulty in smoothly opening or closing the garage door could indicate problems with the tracks, rollers, or opener.

3. What steps should I take if I encounter garage door problems?

When faced with garage door issues, taking prompt action is essential to prevent further damage and ensure safety. Follow these steps:

Inspect and Clean: Regularly inspect your garage door for signs of damage or wear, and clean the tracks and rollers to remove dirt and debris.

Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply lubricant to hinges, rollers, and springs to ensure smooth operation and prevent premature wear.

Check Weather Stripping: Inspect and replace damaged weather stripping to maintain energy efficiency and keep out moisture.

Adjust Sensitivity Settings: If your garage door opener is acting up, adjust the sensitivity settings as per the manufacturer's instructions to ensure proper operation.

Seek Professional Help: For complex issues or safety concerns, contact a reputable garage door repair service in Ottawa to diagnose and fix the problem.

As an Ottawa homeowner, staying proactive about garage door maintenance and addressing problems promptly can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. By understanding common garage door issues and knowing how to identify and troubleshoot them, you can ensure that your garage door remains a reliable and functional aspect of your home throughout the year. Remember, a well-maintained garage door not only enhances convenience but also adds to the overall security and value of your property.

Stay informed, stay proactive, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a smoothly operating garage door in Ottawa.

[girlsbathroom]

44

got some hot goss for you. however, it is all >1 week old, so it's cooling off now. you don't know that though and future me probably has a fuzzy memory, so... I travelled back to Ottawa for 4 days last week. It was a fun, sexy, and secret little getaway to see my new lad and potentially also friends.

I was in town for less than 4 hours, when DS and I ran into my mother at a parking lot. Yes, I wanted to die. Yes, the first thing I said was "please don't tell dad". Yes, it is real fucking awkward running into your conservative, catholic mother, while on a secret trip with your secret boyfriend. It is especially awkward when, as far as she knows, you are supposed to be working a night shift in another country, in a city which is further than 5 hours by plane. yes, yes, yes. Otherwise, I'd say that the interaction went well. She agreed to keep it secret (girl code?!), and because she was pressed for time, she could not linger to say anything more than a quick 'nice to meet you'.

I had small hope I could keep the trip a secret from everyone else (delusion!), but for some reason, TK decided to check his Find My Friends app at the most inconvenient time ever. He saw that I was at the airport and told DK and my father, who were right beside him at the gym. So, around the same time that I ran into my mother, I was receiving multiple texts from all of the men in my family, asking me "how are you doing?", "any plans this weekend?", "How's Seattle", "what's new?", "Let's arrange a facetime!". nosey bitches. I love them.

So, I came clean. Everyone now knows. A small burden was lifted from my chest and replaced with a sense of relief (wait until you move back home baby). DS and my friends had a good laugh. Mom and Dad respected my request for some privacy amidst my mortification. And TK requested a quick catch-up-coffee. and I realized he was unwell. (wow, minor heartbreaking plot twist). In the end, it was a great weekend, and I was happy I went, but it was a little bittersweet to leave.

I haven't been journaling as much as I would like. In my sad defense, not a ton has been going on to journal about, but I think there is another reason (she knows that there is another reason!). don't get me wrong, this is the best thing to have to complain about (and I don't like using the word complain), but DS is notably more extroverted than I am. I also think that the distance is more uncomfortable for him, than me. Initially, I had thought that he wanted to chat/video call this often, because he was worried that I was lonely and sad in a foreign city (making Seattle sound a lil' more romantic yeah?), but now I suspect it is because of his own internal factors (I'm not going to spell it out for you). I've tried to gently tease some of these topics out of him, during little convos here and there, but I do worry I am not best equipped to comfort him in a way that would have a lasting impact (Dw, I am not trying to make his emotional health and insecurity my responsibility or whatever you're worried about) (I am also currently deal w/ family stuff, so maybe I am just spread a little thin right now).

But as a result, I find that the little emotional energy which I typically reserve for reflection in these diary entries, has been depleted. I know it won't always be like this though.

I look forward to working day shift again.