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allthetropes · 26 days ago

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you have no idea how much i hate to say it, but damn it, it is the apps. the apps are the problem with the kids these days. with all the love from your friendly high school teacher, the problem is absolutely the fucking apps. hear me out (i promise, it's worth it)

see, the way it worked back when I was a baby, was that your mom and dad would buy you this big wooden plate with shapes cut out of it

and the shapes that were cut out would just be scattered around. and you would be like 9 months old. So you'd pick up the wooden plate and put it in your mouth and shit, but it didn't do anything and the actual shapes were so much easier to pick up, so you picked them up. and your fingers felt the soft curved edges and the pointy corners and the texture of the wood

and you tried to slam them into the wooden board and got frustrated when they didn't fit, but then you tried the star shape in the star shaped hole and it made a satisfying clunk sound and your mom would clap for you cause you made her happy and that made you happy. and you learned that each shape had its own place in the board

and over time and repetition you would associate the feeling of pointy with the look of pointy. and you'd be able to match up pointy bits. and curved bits. and round bits vs square bits. and soon you'd be able to fix the whole puzzle easily. and at the ripe age of [checks notes] 1, you had laid the foundations of problem-solving skills.

These days, we have an app for that.

But the app doesn't do all the leg work. The app goes tap, tap. Oh, it didn't work. Okay. tap, tap. ooh, yellow stars make baby happy! tap, tap. tap, tap. Sometimes the tapping works. sometimes it doesn't. baby isn't getting the same sensory input that helps them understand why the star shape didn't go into the square hole. There's nothing to feel. There might be nothing to hear. There's no satisfying feeling of the wood moving under your fingers and clicking into place.

tap, tap, tap, tap.

all that engagement for baby's brain is robbed. eventually, baby does learn the same outcome: circle goes into circle hole, triangle into triangle hole, but it takes so much longer and the information can't be retained easily. baby has learned facts and not skills. present baby with the same puzzle in different colours and you will even see that baby takes huge steps back in their understanding because the facts have changed.

fast-forward and baby is now 3 or 4 years old and is bored, but doesn't have the problem-solving skills to fix that. "Mom, i'm bored." and mom has an app for that. or a show. Mom has shit to do and she needs 3yo to not be in her hair for an hour, so long live peppa pig. mom grabs the ipad that hasn't been off since it first came out the box, opens netflix, puts on the kid's show, hands it back to 3yo. 3yo is entertained, having had to do absolutely nothing to fix their boredom but call on mom.

when I was 7 you had a bucket full of lego blocks, random fucking lego blocks, green yellow blue red white black, 4 prongs, 6, 8, all shapes and colours. and it was up to me to figure out what to do with the blocks. i could build anything i liked. and if i built too high it would fall over and i'd have to start again. but 7yos these days don't have big buckets of random blocks. they have a lego-set. the exact number of correct blocks to create a single item, and step by step instructions. they don't have to think about what to do with their new toy. they mindlessly assemble according to the instructions and then the toy is all done, the thing had been made.

so now you fast-forward and i've handed out word search puzzles to my 12yo students. and i've explained, with visuals on the board, what you're supposed to do with a word search puzzle. how it works. there's written instructions on the board, and on your worksheet as well. here are the words you're looking for. you'll need a pen or pencil or a marker. first one to find them all wins.

5 minutes later, nearly the whole class are on their phones.

and i go up to little johnny confused because, did you finish your word search already? and little johnny goes "i did my best". johnny has found 2 words in the puzzle. He's read each line from left to right and found two words, and circled them. that's 2 out of 15.

i ask him, did you read up and down for words? did you look at the list of words you were meant to find and did you try to locate those letters in the big search box? and little johnny looks at me like i've got three heads. 'no' says johnny. 'i don't know. i didn't know what i was meant to do.'

did you ask a friend to explain what you were meant to do? did you ask your teacher? did you read the instructions? 'no. i didn't know i was meant to ask somebody. (or: yes and my friend didn't know either!)' so johnny sat with an assignment he couldn't finish and to avoid feeling like he was 'too stupid', he found something he did understand. an app.

and the worst part is that little johnny really did do his best. some students didn't try at all. some couldn't even find the 2 words he did, even though they really tried. johnny has never not had the solution within hand's reach. johnny has never had to solve a problem himself, ever, and i can tell.

and then they grow a little bit more and mary is fifteen and has been in the girl's bathroom for over two hours now. one of her friends is worried enough that she tells me, and I go in. mary feels sick and is in a stall, weak after throwing up cause her period sucks. it hadn't occurred to mary to ask a friend for help, or to go to the nurse, or take herself home, or get a tablet for her cramps, or ask somebody for a tampon. she texted her mom, 'i'm sick', but her mom's at work with her phone on silent. mary didn't know asking somebody else for help was even an option. it takes twenty minutes of pointed questions before i even find out she's on her period, because when i ask her, 'what do you think made you sick?' she tells me she doesn't know. she's never had to think about why.

and now alexleigh is eighteen and their parents have helped them move into a dorm on campus and it's all up to them and they just sit on their bed without the sheets on, staring at nothing, because, well, now what? eventually their stomach starts to grumble. that means they need food. they open the fridge, but there's no food in there, because they never bought any food. they're hungry. there's an app for that. some of their tight student budget is handed over to ubereats just so they can have dinner. it doesn't occur to them to set an alarm so they can get to the morning lecture on time. and even if they did set the alarm, they would need to have the forethought to factor in how much time it will take them to get ready in the morning and find their way to class, rather than just set their alarm for the moment the lecture starts.

when their professor asks why they are late, they will say the same thing they've always said. "I don't know."

and it's not their fucking fault. they've been robbed of problem-solving skills since their infancy. they've never had to think their way around a problem. they've never had to entertain themselves. when they have no instructions, they simply shut down.

my macbook isn't working. the screen is dark. did you charge it? i don't know. do you think you should try charging it? maybe it's just out of juice. i don't know. where's your charging cable? i don't know. find your charging cable. but i don't know where it is!? you have to look for it. where? where do you usually store your charging cable? in my bag. okay. look inside your bag. oh, my charging cable is here. okay! [...] try charging your macbook. oh, it's working now! Thank you!

this is the kind of conversation you are meant to have with a five year old. This is not the kind of conversations that should be happening with 13 year olds, but it is. en masse. these kids aren't stupid. they aren't disabled, at least, not in the way we think of disability. they have full brain function. the same function i had at their age. but they were never, ever taught problem solving skills. so they are constantly left floundering with nothing to do. and you know what? there's an app for all that free time.

it's like we are asking them to explain the theory of relativity to us, but we forgot to teach them addition and subtraction. they can count to 10 and we figured that was enough. so now you have whole classes of kids who constantly feel like they are too stupid for school. their teachers make them feel stupid. thank heavens, they've assigned an essay. there's an app that will write it for them.

and it's nobody's fault. having kids is like fighting in the trenches. you need 2 full time incomes to make a single child thrive. your body and mind are wrecked by the time you clock out. BESIDES - how are you, the parent, supposed to know that the app version of the wooden puzzle won't deliver the same results and will have long-lasting consequences? unless you studied child- or brain-development in tertiary education, you probably won't know. And even if somebody tells you: once won't kill them. twice won't hurt. where is the boundary? how are you meant to stay on top of all the developmental milestones?

but i've had to help thirteen-year-old kids navigate a panic attack because they were asked to write with a pencil and not a pen, and they'd never used a pencil to write words before, so the pencil remained where it lay on their desk while the pressure of but now i'm not doing the assignment mounted in their brain.

i've helped ten year olds out of tears because it had been so long since they had held a real book and not a kindle, they didn't know you had to physically move the page over rather than press a button.

so yeah. it's the fucking apps. insidious. painful. i am so sorry. every single of you deserved so much more. so did your parents. idk how to fix it. but it is, definitely, absolutely, for fucking sure, the apps

#idek what to tag this #personal #child development #apps #technology #brain #problem solving skills

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scribblerreviews · 19 days ago

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Top 25 Christmas Films (5-1) (2024 Update)

5. Klaus (2019)

The only film of my top 5 that came out past the 60’s, Klaus came out in 2019 and was instantly a Christmas classic. Essentially a “Santa Claus origin story”, Klaus is a heartwarming and humorous tale about the healing power of doing good. But it’s not just the story; every part of Klaus is perfectly put together. The voice acting is phenomenal across the board. The score swells with the emotional moments and compliments the humour well. And the animation, the animation is on another level. It’s traditional 2D animation, but through volumetric lightning and unique textures it has a 3D effect, despite being entirely 2D. It’s a work of art that shows the effort put in by the whole crew to create something with interesting shots, beautiful images, and spectacular performances. You are doing yourself a disservice if you don’t sit down and enjoy this new Christmas classic.

4. Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer (1964)

You know the song. Everyone knows the song. And you probably know the movie too, since it’s played year after year. And for good reason. Rather than just being a simple retelling, the animation expands the story to include catchy songs, fun side-characters, and a solid plot about who Rudolph was and how he came to save Christmas. In rewatching, I’ve realized one of the reasons why this film is engrossing is because the story is Joseph Campbell’s “The Hero’s Journey”. Rudolph faces challenges, heads out into The Unknown, and returns after growing; it’s a classic story formula that we come back to because it works. Animation-wise, the stop-motion puppet work has an ageless quality to it, always endearing to watch. It’s a timeless animation that will endure, snowy winter after snowy winter.

3. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

Much like Rudolph before, there’s an ageless quality to A Charlie Brown Christmas. Of all the M. Schulz Peanuts animations, this is the one that lives in my head. The iconic opening, the dance scene, Snoopy’s humour side gags, the songs, and the warm, cheery feeling when watching is hard to beat. Apparently its jazz soundtrack, child voice actors, and lack of a laugh track were unconventional choices in the 60’s, but I can’t imagine this any other way. It’s timeless in the simple designs, slow but comfortable story, and exploration of the feeling of Christmas. It may be slow, but it knows to take its time, making something comfortable and warm to return to. There’s not really anything negative I have to say about this animated special.

2. Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)

It was a bit of a toss up for me between Charlie Brown and this one. Between the two, this one is the one I prefer for Christmas Eve. Boris Karloff’s voice is perfect for both the narration and The Grinch, and the rest of the cast fit the whimsical Whos. Credit must also go to Thurl Ravenscroft as the bass vocalist for the iconic "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch". This half-hour animation is lively, hilarious, and all these years later, still a blast to watch. And that’s no surprise, since it was directed by Chuck Jones, aka, the man responsible for some of the best Looney Tunes animations. The story is simple but engaging, and Dr. Seuss’ eye-catching, wild designs help to keep everything fun to watch. The Grinch is as much a staple of Christmas as reindeer, presents, or stockings by the fire.

1. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

Perhaps the classic Christmas movie to end all classics, 1947’s Miracle on 34th Street is sentimental, smart, silly, and a delight to watch. All of the cast is fantastic, with special shout-outs to Natalie Wood’s natural, sweet performance and Edmund Gwenn's spectacular turn as Kris Kringle, which won him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. He’s jolly, kind, a bit mischievous, and a joy to watch. He really makes you believe, or want to believe, that he is Santa Claus. The script is solid, never feeling flabby and always keeping your attention. It’s got comedy and heart in equal measure, and its sentimental message is not overdone, perhaps best showcased in the courtroom scene. That scene has stayed with me since viewing it. It’s not just a classic because of its age, but because it is smartly written, timelessly funny, and fully heartwarming. It’s a special type of Christmas magic.

#Christmas #Christmas movies #Christmas films #film #films #Top 25 #Klaus #Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer #A Charlie Brown Christmas #How the Grinch Stole Christmas #Miracle on 34th Street

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mrvelocipede · 8 months ago

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I spent some time this afternoon in a slightly cold-ish haze, applying stain samples to pieces of wood. Some of the resulting colors may end up on the floorboards, eventually. The weird blue-greens are in there because I want to mix small amounts of them in with some of the browns, to make better shades of brown.

It's absolutely mind-boggling how many different individual components go into building a house. There are obvious materials, like framing lumber and drywall and bricks. (There are so many different kinds of bricks. We got to go to a neat warehouse and look at hundreds of samples of bricks, in many shades of red and orange and brown and yellow and off-white, with and without speckles, spots, textures, kiln-firing marks, and so on and so forth.) But then basically every single visible surface and fixture has to be chosen, and they all have to work together and look reasonably harmonious.

Floorboards. Tile. Faucets. Cabinet doors. Room doors. Doorknobs. Cabinet handles. Sconces and various light fixtures. Window trim moldings. Stair railings. Roof material. Countertop material.

I've learned that kitchen countertops can be made of laminate, like old-school Formica, or else slabs of stone or stone-like materials, and there's very little middle ground in terms of aesthetics or cost. It's either way low-end or way high-end. I mean, there are cheaper and more expensive kinds of stone slabs, but it's all stone, with significant fabrication costs on top of the base material price.

For most of these things, you have to go to showrooms and deal with sales people. And at that point, I begin to run into difficulties.

See, on the internet I get to be the fascinating and mysterious Mr. Velocipede, and talk about whatever projects I've been working on, and post pictures of things I've made. People are willing to think of me as competent, or in some categories an actual expert to some degree, and it's a fairly comfortable persona to inhabit. It's very easy to forget that in the offline world, I'm a very ordinary-looking middle-aged housewife kind of thing. It's not how I think of myself, but it's definitely what I look like to any outside observer.

During the house-building project, I've been constantly, incessantly reminded of why I became Mr. Velocipede in the first place: being a girl in this culture sucks.

I don't actually mind being female (although I often feel like I'm kind of crap at it), but the kinds of assumptions made about you are so fucking insultingly stupid that I've never really figured out how to respond to them. You're supposed to use Pinterest boards and read magazines full of fairy-tale cottages and have a "dream kitchen" that you've been fantasizing about since you got married and stopped fantasizing about your dream wedding.

You're supposed to want to hide all your appliances neatly in tasteful cupboards, so as not to offend guests with your unsightly refrigerator or microwave or washing machine. I've lost count of the number of times I've had to explain to people that I don't want a special board that attaches to my cabinets, to hide the side of the refrigerator. "But you'll see the side of the refrigerator!" they admonish me. "It's not finished the same as the front! It doesn't match the cabinets!"

Yeah, okay, but what if I like having a magnetic surface to stick things on? What if I don't want to spend money on a random unnecessary board that basically dangles from the upper cabinet?

And there is always, always the assumption that you cannot possibly know anything at all about materials and how they work. I got to listen to quite a long speech about how window screens actually block a certain percentage of the light. Did I know that? Well, yes, as a matter of fact I did. That was why I was asking about getting half-screens, instead of ones that cover the entire window.

It turns out that color is a very stressful subject for a lot of people, which I guess I sort of knew, but am now having to cope with more directly. Our architect is all stressed out because I haven't chosen a stain color yet, and I scared him by buying a bunch of sample bottles of weird bright colors of stain. I've been trying to reassure him that I'm very happy to figure out how to mix a custom stain color myself, out of whatever stock colors exist, but this is apparently unheard of.

But I am flat-out refusing to just pick one of the existing stock colors, because they are all too jarringly harsh and simple, and not at all the effect I want. And I can't figure out how to convey the idea that I know how to work with color, I understand that it's going to look different on different kinds of wood, I know what I'm doing, and I'm not going to burst into tears if it doesn't look like some reference photo in a brochure. Those brochures all look awful, and I know I can do better, if only people will stop calling me "little lady" and let me fucking get on with it.

#the house-building project #gender #complaints department #it is all very frustrating #I am probably less shouty and sweary when I don't have a cold #long post #I used to have a thing on my website that said 'Mr. Velocipede is a rude lady'

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k00323923 · 2 months ago

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Assemble Project - 11/11/24

I did the print making workshop. I really enjoyed it as before I only used lino for print making so it was interesting to use a different technique for once. I learnt how to do monoprint, print using a board of wood and how to print using different wallpapers for texture.

This is the monoprints that I made. I decided to draw flowers as I didn't know what else to draw and flowers were the first thing that came to mind. Trying to draw with this technique was a struggle as you had to keep your hand off the page of else it would show up as a mark.

Then we moved onto printing with a variety of different materials. I used wallpaper to create all these different textures. I really enjoyed this as it was interesting how the patterns turned out and I decided to layer them to create this collage. This reminds me of Picasso's artwork because he only used the primary colours red,yellow and blue in this paintings.

Overall I liked the process of this and will consider choosing print making.

#lsad #first year #workshop #assemble #art

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cjwritesforyou · 10 months ago

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The Last Strawberry Summer

8-page Short Story

“Bill?”

“What’s the matter?”

“There’s somethin’ I’ve been meanin’ to tell you. For a while now.” “What’s that, honey?”

“I…”

“Spit it out–what is it?”

“I’ve kept it a secret for a while now and–”

“Thirty years of marriage and we still have goddamn secrets, Suzie? I haven’t got a goddamn thing you don’t know.”

“I’ve been meanin’ to. I swear it. It just kept slippin’ and well–ya know–here we are now.”

“So–let’s hear it hun–I’m waitin’.”

Susan placed a finger on her lips and stood up from the couch. She paced to the window and peeked out the blinds at the fields of strawberries under the Indiana sunset. They grew well this year–maybe the best crop they’d ever had. She looked at the porch they had installed together, the first year they bought the house–and the land. How hard it was nailing in that veranda!

“There’s no good way to tell you this, Bill.”

Bill stood up from the wood rocking chair. It took him a few tries, pushing up from the armrest and clutching his lower spine with his left hand. Susan stared at him and watched. He hobbled to the kitchen cupboard and wedged a glass under the tap. When it was filled to the brim he let the glass remain, noticing the sweet scent flowing through his body. Next to the sink laid their best knife on top of the cutting board. Strawberry stems were still stuck to the blade. Red stained the cutting board and the pure aroma that had been ingrained in him lingered about the kitchen. He had made her pick and cut up a few for him that morning, since she wouldn’t let him do it himself. Susan’s eyes followed his hand as he set the glass on the countertop.

“Didn’t take your pills?”

“To hell with them pills.”

“You gotta take ‘em.”

“They don’t work for shit. What good’s it do?”

“The doc said you hafta, Bill. They’re only gonna help ya.”

“I won’t. I won’t have ‘em. Haven’t done a damn thing for me since they drew down the dosage.”

“You can’t have those anymore. They told you.”

“Can’t have anything, then. Might as well blow my back out for good. It’d do you better. I might be in so much pain I won’t care about this damn secret.”

“Oh–don’t say that. You know I want to tell ya. Can’t find the words to,” she said. “Won’t ya stop working? That back of yours can’t take it and you know it. We don’t need the farm anymore, Bill. We’ve got more than enough to live off of. We don’t need it anymore, Bill.”

“It’s not about needing, Susan. It never was.”

“It’s become ‘bout needin’. Dammit Bill, you don’t get it. Right–that’s it–I’m putting my foot down. I won’t let you throw your back out for a crop we don’t need. It’s done, Bill. I won’t let ya.”

“Do what now?”

“I won’t let you. ‘Less you want a divorce–that’s how important this is to me. That’s how important you are to me, Bill. I can’t watch you wreck yourself. I won’t let ya.”

Bill stared at Susan and rose the glass to his lips. He looked out the kitchen window at the blood-red fruit covering the soil like a carpet. The sensation of their prickly but soft texture–and their leafy stems and the sound they made when he pulled them off and how they looked when he held them high up in his hands against the daybreak skyline and the feeling of picking each individual strawberry and knowing that they were his, they were his–reverberated in his head. They were his. His strawberries.

“Okay. Alright–if that’s what you think, Suze–you don’t give me much of a choice, do ya?”

“‘Less you want to hire those men down from the town? We’d still turn a big profit on this pull. They wouldn’t go to waste that way.”

“Yeah, no. You know what I think about lettin’ others on our crop.”

“I know. I thought I’d try, though. I’ve never seen ‘em this red. It’s a shame.”

“It doesn’t hafta be a shame.”

“No, Bill–what did I tell you–ya aren’t touchin’ another strawberry from this farm. I’m drivin’ up to the market tomorrow morning. I could take a look at what they have there for ya? At least get you something.”

“Yeah, no. You know I don’t want that commercial crap–it ain’t mine.”

“I know. But I feel like I needa do somethin’ for you. I just can’t let you back out on that field. I don’t know what would happen to you with one more harvest. I’m afraid there wouldn’t be anything left of ya.”

“You don’t need to do anything for me, Suze.”

Bill downed the rest of his glass and placed it in the sink. Before heading to the bedroom, he peered back out at the strawberry-filled fields glistening under the summer sunset. He smiled one last time and walked away from the window.

Bill and Susan laid in bed in silence. Susan had turned a horror flick on the television. Susan rolled onto her side facing Bill. He was staring at the ceiling.

“I can’t let you out for the harvest tomorrow.”

His eyes didn’t waver from the ceiling. She could see it–she knew how much it was hurting him.

“I can’t, Bill. I care too much about you.”

“They’ll rot.”

“You’ll rot.”

“Some things take priority.” He smiled. “Some things are more valuable than me.”

“You are more valuable to me. Bill, you said you wouldn’t. You told me you wouldn’t. I told you how important this is to me and you said you wouldn’t. Please–Bill.”

“You’re right Suze. I did say that.”

“Then you won’t? You won’t go out tomorrow?”

“That’s what I said. My back won’t let me anyways. I hope to get out of bed tomorrow, let alone get outside.”

“That’s good, then–then you can’t anyways.”

“It’s about time, isn’t it? For the last surgery.”

“It is.”

“When was it again?”

“Day after tomorrow. Seven A.M.”

“Right. Day after tomorrow.”

Bill took his eyes off the ceiling and reached for his glass. He brought the water to his lips and took a sip. He turned to put the glass back on the nightstand but a sharp pain struck his lower disc. Bill winced and the glass fell out of his hands, spilling over the carpet.

“Fuck.”

“Hun–lay back–stop that.”

“Can’t even put a glass of fucking water down.”

“It’s okay. I’ll fetch a towel.”

Bill stared back at the ceiling as Susan took a towel out from the bathroom. She set the glass back on the nightstand and put the towel over the spot on the carpet. Susan picked up the remote from his nightstand and switched the television off. She got under the covers and turned the lamp on her nightstand off. She couldn’t tell if he was still staring at the ceiling or not.

“You won’t, right?”

“That’s what I said, isn’t it?”

“I know. But you won’t, right?”

“That’s what I told you.”

“Ok–alright then.” She put a hand on his side. “I know you want it more than anything right now–I know. But I don’t know how much pain I would be in if you did. I’m scared–Bill. I’m terrified. Your back can’t take another harvest–you can barely get around the house. And I–I can’t imagine how hurt I would be to see you like that. And I don’t want that. And right before your surgery. Please–Bill–promise you won’t. Promise me. I won’t be able to take that pain. I can’t.”

“That’s what I said. I don’t want to see you in pain over me either, Suze.”

“Ok.”

Susan took her hand back and turned away from Bill. She didn’t want to face him while she slept. She felt like the more she looked at him–the more she faced him–the more she knew how much he wanted it. Susan thought that–if she faced him any longer–she would see more and more how much he wanted it and she would give in, she would let him go out and pick in the field, she would let him blow his back out for good this time. She wouldn’t let that happen. She stayed to her side of the bed, facing the wall. Susan closed her eyes and thought back to when they first bought the land. Newlyweds working the fields, fixing the house, starting a life. They worked so hard–so hard–and they could relax now. But that glint in his eyes she saw the first day they stepped foot on the field never faded. He still had that look about him. Something that went beyond wanting a comfortable life for the two of them. Something he desired more. Something she didn’t entirely understand. Susan smiled and prayed–that everything would be alright–and forced herself to sink into the pillow.

Susan woke up naturally before the sun rose the next morning. She rolled over, finding Bill fast asleep, and let out a sigh of relief as she inched out of bed, barely lifting the covers, listening to Bill’s breath. She skipped brushing her teeth and grabbed the clothes she had set out the night before on her nightstand. Tip-toeing out the door, she turned the doorknob soundlessly, glanced at the bed one last time. Still snoring.

Susan snuck the door close until she heard the click and slipped into her garments, slid her jacket on with a sort of smoothness. Each move–each action–she performed with elegance, almost rehearsed. Breakfast got skipped. She rushed right past the kitchen. She wanted to get out of the house–didn’t want to take any chances–and find him fast asleep when she came back.

Through the living room, down the hall, and out the door–out the door. Opened, closed, locked, double-checked, she was out. Susan made it to the car and got in, careful to close the door. She turned the ignition key and fastened her seatbelt–there wasn’t time to let the car warm up. Leave. Get out. Get away. It was perfect. Everything was perfect.

She let the car roll. She made it out of the driveway, onto the main road far enough, until she could no longer see the house, and the fences around the fields, or see their neighbors, and their neighbors’ neighbors, and she was certain she could not wake him–almost certain, she hoped.

Bill hadn’t dreamt in years, but knew it was one immediately. Rubbing his boots around in the brown soil, blood-red strawberries shining under the morning sun. Bill grinned a face he hadn’t been able to make in years and gazed up at the sunlight he had seen on so many harvests; his heart jumped with excitement. Accustomed to his poor back, he started with a stroll. But the pain was gone–he was in dreamland. He found himself pacing, then jogging and he broke out sprinting through the fields!

Green leaves atop red strawberries–heaven on earth! A few made their way off their stems and into his mouth and he remembered that sweet summer sensation with a hint of sour he had forgotten. It all rushed back to his mind at once. He was in dreamland–dreamland! Strawberries dropped one by one into his stomach and he felt at home–felt at peace.

Bill came to a stop at the center intersection of the field. He spun round and round and absorbed his life’s work. Each color, each shape, each fruit. All his. He smiled and smiled like he had when he first tilled the soil and planted his first crop, all those years ago. Bill lowered himself to the ground and laid down on the dirt, soaking it up. He shut his eyes and let the sun warm his eyelids and he couldn’t get the smile off his face. He laid for a while in awe and in nostalgia.

This must be joy, Bill thought.

Susan flew off the main road into the driveway and screeched to a halt. The car door swung open and she jumped out. She didn’t close it; she ran into the house. Susan fumbled the keys out of her pocket. They dropped and fell to the ground with a clink.

“Shit–shit,” she said.

Susan snatched them up and searched for the silver key she needed. Why now? Why hadn’t she taken it off her keychain? She scoured through each key two–three–four times. There! There! She nabbed it between her index finger and thumb and the rest of the keys went limp on the bottom of the chain. She wiped a drop of sweat away and fitted the key in the lock. Open! Finally open!

Susan spun the key and left the front door open. She dashed into the living room, and was headed through the kitchen when she realized she wouldn’t need to go all the way to the bedroom. That was when Susan realized she was too late. That she never should have gone out that morning. That she should have stayed with him. Frozen, she stared at the shattered glass door that led onto the back porch. The back porch that led to the fields. Stupid, terrible fucking fields.

Glass shards covered the floor. Susan sifted her feet through them, taking one big step onto the porch. Green plants shrouded her vision. She spanned the whole field, but didn’t have to look that hard for him. She ran back into the house, stepping over the mess of broken glass bits.

“Shit–shit–shit!”

She yanked the telephone off the kitchen wall and dialed 9-1-1. She suffocated the speaker with her ear and listened to its ring. Each second, each ring, felt like she was waiting a lifetime. It rang and rang and rang.

“9-1-1, what is–”

“An ambulance–I need an ambulance!”

“Ma’am, please calm down. What is the emergency?”

“I need an ambulance–my husband–my husband,” Susan panted. “He–he might be unconscious–or dead–or I don’t know–I need an ambulance!”

“OK, ma’am. Is he breathing?”

“Is he breathing? I don’t know–I don’t know–I need an ambulance! Send an ambulance!”

“OK, ma’am. Please stay calm. Could you tell me your address?”

“Yes–yes I can. 22 Fragaria Road–that’s the address. The big white house on the other side of Brittany Road in front of the strawberry farm. Come quick–really quick–as quick as you can!”

“OK, ma’am. We’re on the way. We’ll be there as quick as we can–”

Susan dropped the telephone from her ear and ran back out the door, down the porch steps, onto the dirt. She ran past hundreds and hundreds of strawberries, leaves and stems and fruit and dirt and there he was–center of the field like the farm branched out from him–laid down in his blue jeans, brown boots, red-black flannel shirt, and the biggest grin she had seen in decades. His eyes were closed and he held his straw hat on his stomach.

“Bill!” she cried, reaching him. “How? How did you get out? How? Why? Why would you do this? Why?”

She fell to her knees and shook him.

“Why? You said you wouldn’t! You promised!”

Her eyes were watered and her nose was runny. She shook him again and again. He didn’t move.

“I know I didn’t trust you. I had locked those doors for a reason. I had those locks prepared for weeks, Bill. Weeks!” she smeared tears away from her face. “I thought those locks would stop you. I did. I don’t know why I did. But I did. I thought you would figure what’s best and go back to bed. For me. By God was I a fool. I shoulda known it would happen. I shoulda never gone. To think you would smash the door open. I shoulda known. You’d do anything to get out, wouldn’t you? Anything. Make empty promises to me. I knew it–I knew you were lying–and I still left. Why did I leave? Why, Bill? Why? Why did you do this? Why did you do this to me?”

Bill laid still. A smile from ear to ear. Soundless. Susan sobbed and wept. She pounded her right fist against the dirt and caressed his cheek with her other hand.

“Fuck. Fuck. Bill–Bill! Please!”

Motionless.

“Bill! Please! I never told you the secret! Please–Bill! Is that why? I swear–I swear I’ll tell it! I swear I’ll do anything–anything! I can’t live without you–please–please. Bill–I can’t take it–I can’t take this.”

Susan rose to her feet and ran back toward the house. She ran past strawberries upon strawberries and made up her mind–she couldn’t take it anymore. She stepped through the broken door and stomped on the glass, into the kitchen. She found their cutting knife next to the sink and walked back to the glass door. On her way back out, she picked up the biggest shard she could find. One round piece different to the others stuck out to her so she picked it up. For some reason it was wet, but she didn’t think anything of it.

On the veranda, Susan looked straight through the field to Bill. She bawled in hysteria, and she no longer paid mind to the snot that flooded down her nostrils, mixed with the streams of tears. Now she was done–she had made up her mind–that was it. Susan lifted the shard of glass in her left hand up to her neck, and the knife in front of her chest with her right. Looking one last time at Bill’s silhouette hundreds of yards away in the middle of the field, she grieved in her loneliness.

Were they really that important?

At once both hands made contact and Susan dropped to the floor. The shard lacerated her flesh and blood splattered out of her neck while her shirt and jacket were engulfed with a dark red puddle. She spat blood out of her mouth as her consciousness faded, staring at the porch roof.

Did they really mean that much?

Bill woke to a man knelt beside him and distant sirens blaring. The man had two fingers on Bill’s wrist and his eyes glued to his watch. He noticed Bill try to move but kept staring at his watch.

“Sir, now that you’re awake, please stay calm. My name is Charles. I’m here to help you.”

“Charles. What the hell are you doing? Where the hell am I?”

“Sir, we received a distress call from your wife. We’re here to help you.”

“Where the hell am I?”

“Your farm, I presume, sir.”

“How the hell did I get here?”

“Do you feel lightheaded, sir? Short of breath?”

“No–no I don’t,” he said, checking his surroundings. “I feel the best I have in years, actually.”

Charles took his hand off Bill’s wrist and stood up. He offered him a hand, and Bill took it, standing up. He looked around at the strawberries and noticed the sun was a quarter of the way done for the day.

“Your heart rate is normal. Do you feel any pain? Loss of senses?”

“No, no. I feel better than I did yesterday.”

Bill looked toward the house and saw an ambulance parked on the dirt. A swarm of paramedics and police officers crowded the veranda. They started walking toward the house, and Bill was astonished to realize he didn’t have trouble walking like he normally did. Charles’s radio muffled and he grabbed it from his waist.

“Headed to the house with the older gentleman. No problems. Report on conditions?”

“She’s gone. We’ve confirmed.”

Charles latched the radio back onto his waist. He paused for a moment to wait for Bill’s reaction, but he didn’t have any.

“I’m incredibly sorry for your loss, sir. We’re able to assist you with anything you might need.”

Bill kept walking without expression. Approaching the veranda, Bill stared at the broken glass door and the broken glass pieces and the swarm of paramedics lifting a body on a stretcher–Susan’s body–which was painted a dark red from the chest down. Purple-red flesh exposed her throat. Her head was tilted back like it had detached from her body and her mouth was covered with dried blood. The paramedics reeled her in the back, and Bill caught a waft of strawberry scent as she passed by him. Bill watched a younger woman get in the back and motion toward him.

“Would you like to ride with us, sir?”

Bill stared down the woman without changing his expression–fixed in place. The woman outstretched her hand with a worried look. Bill didn’t move.

“We’ll take your name and phone number, sir,” Charles said. “And we’ll be in contact with you.”

Charles waved toward the woman. Bill watched the woman miss the door handle once, and when she reached the second time and grabbed it she looked away from Bill, closing the door tight. Charles gave Bill a pen and the back of a form to write on. He scribbled a few times, folded it up, gave it back. Charles placed the pen and paper in his back pocket and got in the passenger seat. Bill stood in the same place and watched the ambulance cruise around the side of the house, and then gone. Bill turned around with that same expressionless face and took in the sprawling bright red strawberry farm before him. He found a smirk on his face and walked into the endless field, never looking back at the white house he no longer needed.

#creative writing #writing #reading #cjwritesforyou

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simplegenius042 · 2 years ago

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FC5 Silva Omar Aesthetics

Bold - YES

Italics - Somewhat

HOLLAND VALLEY.

red, gold, and orange leaves against a clear blue sky // rows of apple trees in an orchard // pick your own pumpkin patches // baskets of puppies // a sleeping fawn hidden away from predators // pumpkin spice // the bite of apple cider // a harvest festival // the faint smell of a bonfire on the wind // the slight unease of getting lost in a corn maze // a hint of fall in the air when it’s still warm // golden sunsets // leaves just beginning to turn from green to orange // the rumble of a tractor // the buzz of an airplane flying low overhead // golden wheat swaying in the wind // the smell of gasoline // sprawling river deltas // crystal clear water // an old wooden dresser // family heirlooms // jingling keys // crimson blood // dark ink on parchment // the sting of a bruise // the warmth of a grand fireplace // gunmetal // work boots in the mud // cattails // the harsh cry of crows // the faint musty smell of taxidermy animals // farm animals making a racket // open air farmers markets // catching your clothes on a barbed wire fence // a fresh breeze through an open window // white rocking chairs // old farmhouses // scarecrows // wild westerly winds // the barely contained excitement for the approach of autumn

WHITETAIL MOUNTAINS.

fishing at dawn // the smell of woodsmoke clinging to your clothes and hair // wolfsong // locking eyes with another predator // a night that falls faster than expected // the crisp hint of snow in the air // log cabins // the scent of evergreen trees // stone fireplaces // a well worn camouflage jacket // old field guide books// the smell of a cigarette still lingering on your hands // lager // the roar of whitewater rapids // cool dark caves // the rough wood of an antique gun // the scent of iron // woodland paths crisscrossed by gnarled tree roots // a haze of dust from a recent rockslide // losing your breath as you wade into an icy river // winding mountain roads // an eagle’s cry // the bright red flash of a foxes tail at the corner of your eye // the patter of rain on dead leaves // petrichor // seeing your breath in the cold morning air // the click of a projector // the jangling of a chain link fence // gunpowder // the sizzling of a grill // burnt hair // the grand lobby of a lodge // gravel crunching underfoot // the cry of blue jays // information boards // brochures piled on a table // cold metal bars // the sour smell of a lumber mill // the rough texture of scouting achievement badges // muffled oldies music from another room // sharpening a hunting knife // blood red leaves blooming from bone white birch trees // red bleeding into the edges of your vision

HENBANE RIVER.

cloying floral scents // the thick mist that gathers near the ground at dawn // dewdrops sparkling on spiderwebs // the almost too intense morning sun // unseasonable warmth // birdsong // honeyed wine // walking barefoot in the cool grass // the clanging of a jail cell door // spying hazy figures of animals in the fog // lemon balm and lavender // the low growl of a wildcat that you can’t see (but it sees you) // choking clouds of pollen settling on cars like snow // vineyards // faint humming and singing from an unidentifiable source // juniper berries // feeling uncomfortably hot in overly formal clothes // lace // burning incense // frogs in the reeds // soft brunette tresses // long winding rivers // mesmerizing music // glistening trout // the sweet nectar of honeysuckle flowers // rumbling of truck motors // glass beakers // bundles of dried flowers // wind chimes tinkling // rough concrete bricks // tumbling barrels // the ringing of a vintage phone // sweet words // broken promises // moonflower and datura // the smell of freshly cut grass // the faint sound of children laughing

JOSEPH’S COMPOUND.

babbling brooks // humming // whistling // dogs barking // grand oak trees // the faint sound of hymns // a crate of ripe peaches // melted wax candles // the smell of fresh newspaper clippings // caged birds singing // a warm embrace // wrought iron arches // flames reaching for the sky // gentle voices murmuring // your feet sliding in thick mud // pouring rain // vape smoke // the slight scent of sweat // ink on skin // the smell of wooden church pews // the rustle of hymnals // old book smell // slight hint of ozone from old electronics // bradford pear petals floating on the breeze

DUTCH’S ISLAND.

creaking metal hinges // the crackle of a radio // the scratch of an old record player // the smell of antiseptic // the flickering light of a projector // the feel of pushing pins into cork board // echoing footsteps // shelves stacked with canned food and mason jars // dark shadowy figures on the edge of your vision // gleaming metal badges // a table of bullet shell casings // vertigo from standing on swaying radio towers // the sound of shattering glass // whistling pipes // suffocating heat // the chatter of squirrels // faint scent of mothballs// the sputter of a boat engine // the high electronic whine of an old television turning on // the sound of distant gunfire // tear stained letters // old family photographs // the smell of a mildewy basement

#oc: silva omar #far cry the silver chronicles #far cry 5 #character aesthetic #i did my best with this #might even update later when i have time

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sanches812 · 3 months ago

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20 Red Wood Texture Backgrounds

The visual appeal of red wood does not merely lie in its color; it is also about the story and emotions that these textures evoke. Red wood has a long-standing association with strength and durability, qualities that are valuable in both products and branding. The intricate grain patterns and natural variations in color add depth and character, creating a backdrop that emphasizes the nobility and uniqueness of the main idea.

Incorporating red wood textures is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a narrative that reflects the essence of the products or services offered. It symbolizes a connection to nature, craftsmanship, and authenticity—qualities that are increasingly important to today’s discerning consumers.

Features

Seamless Transition

Quantity: 20

Dimension: 8064×5376 px, 27×18 in

Resolution: 300 Dpi

Extension: Jpg

Ratio: 3x2

Contains

Zip archive with 20 ready-to-use files. Size: 752 Mb

Help file with image color correction advice.

Textures.World Review: 20 Red Wood Texture Backgrounds

~ Thank you & Enjoy using ~

#red wood texture #red wood background #seamless red wood #red wood desk #red wood board #red wood floor #red wood table #red wood wall #red wood desk texture #red wood board texture #red wood floor texture #red wood table texture #red wood wall texture

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deckingcentralcoast · 1 year ago

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TimberTech Decking – Durable and Beautiful

TimberTech decking is built to withstand whatever your family and friends (and mother nature) can dish out. Their capped composite is designed to look like real wood and comes with industry-leading warranties.

The Pro line has a tough composite core surrounded by a protective cap on all four sides, giving it an authentic wood-like appearance with a 50-year limited stain and fade warranty.

Colors

TimberTech offers a wide variety of colors to choose from for your new composite deck. When selecting the right shade for your home, it’s important to consider its paint undertones. A warm shade will have yellow undertones, while a cool shade will have gray undertones.

Gray is still a popular color across the Midwest and South, but browns are gaining popularity in the Northeast and Western regions. TimberTech’s Brown Oak from the Terrain collection is a popular choice, but mid-tone and darker browns like Antique Palm from the Tropical Collection also offer a bold aesthetic.

If you want to emulate the look of exotic wood species such as ipe and teak, TimberTech’s Reserve line has several color options with a textured surface that mimics reclaimed or distressed wood. The Legacy collection has a more complex blend of hues with natural board-to-board color variation and a hand-scraped texture for an artisan-inspired wood look.

Undertones

The subtle blending of a large color range in TimberTech deck boards produces really unique looks from every angle. From far away, they sing with curb appeal and a polished look, while up close they deliver another round of “oohs” and “aahs” because of the rich, vibrant colors and intricate detailing.

Choosing the right color tones for your deck is more important than some realize. It can influence not just how the space feels, but also how much maintenance and comfort it gets to use.

TimberTech’s Terrain collection offers earthy, adaptable tones that embody the spirit of the outdoors. The slightly variegated tones are complemented by rugged wood grain patterns that camouflage everyday wear and tear. The result is a deck that’s as beautiful as it is practical.

Warm Tones

A premium capped polymer decking backed by a Limited Lifetime Product Warranty and 50-Year Limited Fade & Stain Warranty.

Colors that feature warm red and orange undertones pair well with deep browns like the ones featured in TimberTech’s Vintage and Landmark Collections. Similarly, cool green and blue undertones look best when paired with lighter grays and tans.

For a bold contrast, mix light and dark colors to create a picture frame effect around your deck. For example, TimberTech’s composite Reserve collection features Whitewash Cedar and Espresso tones that work wonderfully together.

Or, opt for a more natural blend of hues and tones with a hand-scraped texture that captures the beauty of Old World wood craftsmanship. TimberTech’s composite Legacy Collection offers a wide range of surface textures, board-to-board color variation and hues that feel genuinely natural.

Cool Tones

If you love the idea of a two-toned deck, but don’t want a stark contrast, opt for colors with similar undertones. This helps ensure your deck colors match the rest of your home and yard.

TimberTech offers a wide range of cool hues to suit any style and taste. For example, their tan-gray Coastline decking pairs well with tan trim and pillars. They also offer rich, wood-toned options like Dark Hickory that blends with tan and brown exterior paint colors.

Whatever the weather brings, TimberTech’s capped composite is barefoot friendly and cooler than traditional wood*. Their decking is durable, resists fading and stains, and holds up to mildew and rot. They also offer a range of texture options, including brushing patterns and graining. Choose from three product lines, Vintage, Arbor, and Harvest, to find your perfect look.

Maintenance

With a little bit of care, Timbertech decking will be an attractive addition to your outdoor space for years to come. Its high-quality materials are durable and practically maintenance-free (a simple hosing in the spring should do the trick). However, it will require periodic cleaning to remove stubborn stains.

To clean Timbertech decks, start by sweeping the surface regularly to remove dirt and debris. For more stubborn stains, you can use a mild soap and water solution to scrub the deck boards. Be sure to rinse the decking thoroughly afterwards to remove any soap residue.

If necessary, you can also use a power washer to help get rid of more stubborn stains on your Timbertech deck. Just be sure to use a low pressure setting to avoid damage to your composite deck.

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source https://deckingcentralcoast.wordpress.com/2023/07/27/timbertech-decking-durable-and-beautiful/

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survey--s · 2 years ago

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507.

Have you ever fallen in public? Yeah, more times than I care to remember lol. I’m always tripping over my own two feet at work.

What were some toys you enjoyed in your childhood? Sky Dancers, Polly Pockets, Beanie Babies

Do you have any plans in the upcoming weeks? Mostly just work - I have a week of overnights coming up which is great financially but I never sleep properly when I’m at someone else’s house.

Do you have any allergies? Nickel.

Do you know anyone named after each season? My friend’s dog is Autumn, lol but that’s it.

What's the last thing you had to write down? A note for a customer yesterday to say her dog hadn’t done a poo.

What was the last thing you cleaned? I washed the pet dishes up and then cleaned around the sink.

Have you ever had a concussion? Yes.

What do you think of TikTok? I don’t use it.

Do you prefer long or short sleeve tops? It depends on the weather.

Have you ever held a wild animal? Yeah, a frog we once found up the woods.

Do you enjoy playing Uno? I’ve only played it once or twice.

Do you tend to speed when you drive? Eh yeah, sometimes.

Do you smoke cigarettes? No.

Do you get obnoxious when you’re drunk? I don’t know anyone who doesn’t, to be quite honest. It’s why I don’t really drink anymore - drunk people aren’t fun to be around.

Name one thing you do that people always tell you about. Talk too much about animals lol.

Are you superstitious? No.

Do you get bored with relationships quickly? Not if they’re good relationships.

Can you sleep without blankets covering you? I can, but not well. Even in the height of summer, I like having a duvet over me.

Who do you wish you could hang out with right now? Nobody, I’m pretty content to just be chilling with the dog (who’s currently napping and cuddled up to my leg).

Name one thing you absolutely can not stand. People who pull out on you at junctions and then decide to drive well below the speed limit.

Pick one: Papa John’s, Domino's, or Pizza Hut. Papa John’s.

Who was the first person to ever give you flowers? A boy named William at school.

What is something you do for other people that shows you care for them? I look after them and do jobs etc. to help them out.

What was the last animal/pet that you met? Like, a new pet? I don’t know - it was probably Oakley - he’s a fox red labrador.

Is there anyone in your life with whom your opinion changes on frequently? No, not really.

Do you ever look up set lists for concerts? No.

Is there a certain song or band who reminds you of specific people? Sure, pretty much every song or band out there reminds me of someone.

Would you prefer to take a picture of yourself, or have someone else take it for you? As long as it’s a good photo, I don’t care who takes it lol.

How often do you style your hair differently from how you normally style it? I have like, three hairstyles that I switch between depending on my mood.

What was the last thing to really surprise you? I can’t remember.

Is there something in particular you always seem to forget? No.

Have you ever tried making something from one of those short cooking videos? How did it turn out? I don’t think I have. I always think the recipes look really good and then I generally never bother again lol.

Have you ever written a review for a product you bought online? Yeah, loads of times - I always try and leave reviews for independent businesses as I know how much difference it can make.

Do you ever interact with any brands/companies online? Yeah, a couple.

Is there anything you seem especially sensitive to, such as sounds, smells, etc? Yeah, I have sensory issues around texture, touch and certain smells.

What was the last board game you played? Monopoly is the only one we ever play.

Is anyone you work with currently on maternity leave or vacation? I’m self-employed and don’t have any employees or co-workers.

Favorite boy’s name? Zachary, Xavier, Alexander, Tobias.

Baked macaroni and cheese or regular? Definitely the baked stuff.

Name one of your friends’ children: Rosie.

What’s the middle name of your best friend? He doesn't have one.

How far away do you live from the closest aquarium? Uh, there are two within about an hour of here - I think the closest one is about half an hour away but it’s not very good.

Favorite girl's name? Sophia, Catelyn, Rosie, Alexa.

Are you in a relationship? If so, how long? Yeah, we’ve been together for seven years and married for almost five.

What food do you see the most of at baby showers? I’ve never been to a baby shower.

What’s the last show you really got into that you have to wait for the next season of? The Dog Academy or Clarkson’s Farm.

Have you ever worked in a grocery store? Yeah, for six years or so. It wasn’t actually the worst job in the world.

What’s the temperature range in your area? In winter it can get to below -15C, and in summer it can get up to +35C. I live by the mountains and the sea, so we get all the weather ranges lol.

Have you been around anyone that creeped you out? Yeah, for sure, especially a guy named Daniel who I met online. He was seriously creepy and bordering on obsessive with people. Ew.

Do you own a pair of Crocs? No - I can’t get over how hideous they are lol.

Does anyone in your family have a birthday in February? Uh, it’s not ringing a bell.

Have you ever lived in a trailer/doublewide? No, they’re not really a thing here.

Did you ever participate in any pageants when you were younger? I won a cute toddler contest once lol.

Which would you rather have, twins or triplets? Twins.

Snakes or spiders? Snakes.

Who/what makes you feel safe? My husband, my family, my animals, being at home.

What’s something you want, but feel like you will never have? Uhh, enough money to own my own horses.

Have you ever gone through a bad breakup? Of course.

Do you believe in Jesus? I mean, I believe a person named Jesus existed and that that person was crucified, but I don’t believe he was the son of God or anything like that.

Are you hard of hearing? Not really.

How many bones have you broken in your life? I’ve fractured my skull three times.

Have you ever had vertigo? No, my mum gets it though and it’s really horrible for her.

Has your house ever been robbed? No, but not long after I moved out, my parents’ house got broken into while they were sleeping upstairs and it freaked me out for weeks lol.

If you have a partner, do you have a song? Truly, Madly, Deeply by Savage Garden.

Have you or would you ever hold a snake? Yeah, I’ve done that at the zoo before. Snakes are pretty cool but I wouldn’t want to go anywhere near the venomous ones lol. I watched a programme once about a man who tried to make himself immune to snake venom by injecting himself with it and then allowing his body to heal itself...NOPE NOPE NOPE lol.

#survey #surveys

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phenterminetoxic · 26 days ago

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Cladding Costs in the UK: Everything You Need to Know

Cladding has become an integral part of modern building design, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits. Whether you are renovating your home or embarking on a new construction project, understanding the costs associated with cladding is crucial. This article delves into the details of cladding boards, the popularity of timber cladding, the importance of sourcing from a reliable timber store in the UK, and the factors influencing cladding exterior costs.

What is Cladding?

Cladding refers to the application of one material over another to provide an extra layer of protection and aesthetic appeal. It is widely used on the exterior of buildings to enhance durability, insulation, and overall visual appeal. Among the various types of cladding materials, cladding boards and timber cladding are particularly popular in the UK for their versatility and natural charm.

Types of Cladding Materials

In the UK, homeowners and builders have several options when it comes to cladding materials. From traditional brick to innovative composites, the choice depends on budget, desired appearance, and maintenance requirements. However, timber cladding remains a favourite for those seeking a rustic and natural look. Cladding boards, made from wood or composites, are available in different textures, sizes, and finishes, making them adaptable to diverse architectural styles.

Timber Cladding

Timber cladding is renowned for its eco-friendly properties and timeless beauty. It is sourced from sustainable forests and treated to resist weathering, pests, and rot. Many homeowners in the UK prefer timber cladding for its ability to blend seamlessly with natural surroundings, especially in rural and suburban settings. The cost of timber cladding varies depending on the type of wood, such as cedar, oak, or larch, and whether it is pre-treated or untreated.

Composite Cladding Boards

Composite cladding boards are an alternative to natural wood, made from a mix of recycled materials and polymers. These boards are designed to mimic the appearance of wood while offering enhanced durability and low maintenance. While slightly more expensive upfront, composite cladding boards are cost-effective in the long run due to their longevity and minimal upkeep requirements.

Factors Influencing Cladding Costs

The cost of cladding your home’s exterior can vary significantly based on several factors. Here’s a closer look:

Material Choice

The type of cladding material you choose plays a significant role in the overall cost. Natural materials like timber cladding often cost more than synthetic options but provide unmatched aesthetics. Composite cladding boards are a popular middle ground, offering durability and a wide range of design options.

Size of the Area

The total area to be clad directly affects the cost. Larger surfaces require more material and labour, increasing expenses. Precise measurements and a clear understanding of your project’s scale are essential for accurate cost estimation.

Installation Complexity

The complexity of the installation process can also influence costs. Intricate designs, multiple angles, and challenging heights may require skilled labour, which comes at a premium. Choosing professional installers from a trusted timber store in the UK ensures high-quality results.

Finishing and Maintenance

Post-installation treatments, such as staining or painting, add to the cost of cladding exterior. Maintenance requirements should also be factored in. While natural timber cladding may require periodic treatment to retain its appearance, composite cladding boards are virtually maintenance-free.

Thermo Ayous 20 x 144mm Channel Groove Vertical ST6.TA

Key Features

Thermally modified for stability and class leading durability

Almost defect free

Consistant colour and grain

Very light weight

Western Red Cedar 18 x 144mm Channel Groove ST6

Key Features

Natural Beauty: A stunning array of warm hues, from light amber to rich browns, and a fine, straight grain.

Durability: Naturally resistant to decay, moisture, and insects.

Versatility: Suitable for vertical fit, enhancing the visual height of your design.

Sustainability: PEFC Certified. Sourced from sustainably managed forests. An eco-friendly choice.

Easy to Work With: Lightweight and easy to cut, simplifies the installation process.

Modern Channel Groove Profile: Features a prominent, interlocking channel, or groove, that runs vertically along the edge of each board creating a fashionable shadow line effect, and a secure fit.

Range of Lengths: Full range of lengths in stock, available to select from the board length list.

The Role of Timber Stores in the UK

Selecting a reputable timber store in the UK is critical for obtaining high-quality cladding materials. These stores offer a range of cladding boards, including premium timber cladding, to suit diverse needs and budgets. A reliable timber store in the UK also provides expert advice on material selection, installation techniques, and maintenance tips, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Benefits of Buying from a Timber Store in the UK

Quality Assurance: Trusted timber stores offer certified products that meet stringent quality standards.

Wide Range: From natural woods to composites, you’ll find a variety of cladding boards to match your project requirements.

Expert Guidance: Experienced staff can help you choose the best timber cladding for your home’s exterior.

Sustainability: Many stores prioritise eco-friendly sourcing, supporting sustainable forestry practices.

Why Choose Timber Cladding?

Timber cladding remains a preferred choice for many homeowners in the UK due to its natural appeal and versatility. It can be installed horizontally, vertically, or diagonally, offering a range of design possibilities. Additionally, timber cladding is an excellent insulator, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs.

Cost of Timber Cladding

The cost of timber cladding typically ranges from £20 to £50 per square metre, depending on the wood type and treatment. Cedar, known for its durability and striking appearance, is often more expensive than larch or pine. Installation costs can add an additional £10 to £20 per square metre. Sourcing your materials from a trusted timber store in the UK ensures you get value for money.

FAQs

How Much Does Cladding Exterior Cost?

The cost of cladding exterior varies widely depending on material, labour, and project size. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between £50 and £200 per square metre. For accurate pricing, consult a professional and consider sourcing materials from a reputable timber store in the UK.

Are Cladding Boards Durable?

Yes, high-quality cladding boards are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and maintain their appearance over time. Composite cladding boards are especially durable, requiring minimal maintenance compared to natural wood.

Why is Timber Cladding Popular in the UK?

Timber cladding is highly sought after for its aesthetic appeal, sustainability, and insulating properties. It’s an excellent choice for homeowners looking to enhance their property’s exterior while supporting eco-friendly practices.

How Do I Maintain Timber Cladding?

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and applying protective treatments, is essential to prolong the lifespan of timber cladding. Many timber stores in the UK offer advice and products to help you keep your cladding in excellent condition.

Where Can I Buy High-Quality Cladding Boards?

A trusted timber store in the UK is the best place to purchase premium cladding boards. These stores provide a wide selection of materials, expert guidance, and competitive pricing to ensure your project’s success.

Conclusion

Cladding is a vital aspect of any building project, influencing both the appearance and performance of your home. Whether you choose natural timber cladding or modern composite cladding boards, understanding the costs and factors involved is key to making informed decisions. By sourcing materials from a reliable timber store in the UK, you can ensure a high-quality finish that enhances your property’s value and appeal. With careful planning and the right resources, your cladding exterior project can be a worthwhile investment that stands the test of time.

#cladding boards #timber cladding #timber store in uk #Countries #United Kingdom #Ongar #Home & Garden #Wood Product

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interiors-140 · 1 month ago

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Upcoming Trends in PVC and WPC for Modern Interiors: Revolutionizing Spaces with Style and Durability

The interior design industry constantly evolves, blending aesthetics with functionality. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) and WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) materials are leading this change by offering versatile solutions for modern spaces. These materials, celebrated for their durability and design flexibility, are taking center stage in Best Interior Designs In Hyderabad, redefining how we approach home and commercial interiors. Here’s a deep dive into the trends shaping the future of PVC and WPC in interiors, ensuring they remain the go-to choice for cutting-edge designs.

Trend 1: Nature-Inspired Textures

The demand for biophilic designs has led to a surge in PVC and WPC products mimicking natural textures like wood grains, stone, and marble. These materials offer the warmth of nature without compromising on durability. The subtle wood finish in WPC panels or the sleek marble texture in PVC sheets is a popular choice for the Best Interior Designs In Hyderabad, blending contemporary aesthetics with a touch of nature.

Trend 2: Vibrant Color Palettes

Gone are the days of monotones. Modern interiors now embrace bold and vibrant colors. PVC laminates and WPC boards are available in a myriad of hues, from calming pastels to energetic reds and blues. Designers in Hyderabad are incorporating these dynamic shades into accent walls, kitchen cabinets, and wardrobe designs, pushing boundaries in the Best Interior Designs In Hyderabad.

Trend 3: Seamless Integration in Minimalist Interiors

Minimalism continues to dominate interior design trends. The sleek, smooth finish of PVC and WPC materials complements this style perfectly. WPC panels, for instance, are increasingly used for false ceilings and partition walls, ensuring clutter-free, functional spaces. These materials are essential in curating the Best Interior Designs In Hyderabad, where simplicity meets sophistication.

Trend 4: Innovative Applications

PVC and WPC are no longer confined to traditional applications. They’re making their way into modern interiors in innovative ways:

3D Wall Panels: Adding depth and dimension to interiors.

Modular Furniture: Lightweight yet sturdy, ideal for contemporary needs.

Bathroom and Kitchen Designs: Water-resistant and easy to maintain, perfect for wet areas.

These innovations are setting benchmarks for the Best Interior Designs In Hyderabad, ensuring every corner is stylish and practical.

Trend 5: Eco-Friendly Choices

As sustainability becomes a priority, eco-conscious homeowners and designers are opting for WPC materials made from recycled wood and plastic. These materials reduce environmental impact while maintaining premium aesthetics, making them indispensable in the Best Interior Designs In Hyderabad.

Trend 6: Customized Solutions

Customization is the cornerstone of modern design. PVC and WPC materials offer unparalleled flexibility, enabling bespoke solutions tailored to individual preferences. From unique wall designs to personalized furniture, these materials cater to the Best Interior Designs In Hyderabad, reflecting the city’s eclectic style.

Conclusion: The Future of PVC and WPC in Interior Design

With their unmatched versatility, durability, and style, PVC and WPC materials are revolutionizing modern interiors. Whether you’re looking to revamp your home or design a chic office, these materials ensure a perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality.Hyderabad is at the forefront of these trends, with designers continuously pushing boundaries. If you’re seeking inspiration, the Best Interior Designs In Hyderabad will undoubtedly showcase the endless possibilities of PVC and WPC materials. Choosing the Right Material at Your Choice Interior PVC & WPC.

#homeimprovement #homerenovation #interiordesign #flooringoptions #interiormaterials #ecofriendlyflooring #pvcadvantages #buildingmaterials #pvcflooring #designtrends

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freshroadeggspainter · 2 months ago

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Rustic Christmas Decor Ideas to Bring Warmth and Charm to Your Home This Holiday Season

Looking to add a cozy, rustic touch to your Christmas decor this year? Rustic Christmas decor ideas blend natural elements with vintage charm to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Think pinecones, burlap ribbons, wooden ornaments, and plaid patterns to create a festive farmhouse vibe. From rustic wreaths made of twigs to wooden sleighs and lanterns, there are endless ways to infuse your home with a rustic holiday spirit. Use earthy tones like red, green, and brown, and incorporate plenty of natural textures like wood, stone, and burlap. You can even mix in some cozy knit throws, rustic stockings, and handmade ornaments for a personal touch. Looking for more inspiration? Check out my Pinterest board packed with the best rustic Christmas decor ideas that will transform your space into a winter wonderland!

Head over to my pins board for more rustic Christmas decor inspiration and easy DIY ideas that will make your home feel extra festive this holiday season!

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farazdakstudio · 2 months ago

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How to Make Your Food Photography Stand Out

Food photography is an art that captures the beauty and essence of dishes, making viewers crave what they see. With the rising popularity of food blogs, Instagram, and culinary websites, high-quality food photography has become crucial. If you’re aiming to showcase your food in the best light possible, Farazdak Studio, known as the best photographer in New Delhi , shares expert tips to elevate your food photography. Here’s how to make your food photos pop and attract attention.

Key Tips to Make Your Food Photography Stand Out

Use Natural Lighting

Natural light can enhance colors, textures, and details, making food look more appetizing.

Avoid using flash as it can create harsh shadows and make the food look unnatural.

Shoot near windows or in outdoor settings, and consider using reflectors to balance shadows and highlights.

Choose the Right Background and Props

Your background should complement the food, not overpower it. Use neutral colors like wood, white, or soft tones to keep the focus on the dish.

Props like rustic plates, cutlery, or napkins can add depth but keep them minimal to avoid clutter.

Aim for props that suit the food’s style; for example, wooden boards for rustic dishes or elegant plates for gourmet items.

Focus on Composition and Framing

Rule of Thirds: Divide the frame into a grid of nine parts and place the main subject off-center for a more dynamic composition.

Close-ups: Get close to the food to capture details, such as the texture of ingredients or the layers in a dessert.

Negative Space: Use empty space to direct focus towards the dish. Negative space can add a minimalistic and professional look to your photos.

Highlight Freshness and Texture

Fresh ingredients look more vibrant, so photograph dishes soon after they’re prepared to capture their peak freshness.

Highlight textures by adjusting the angle, such as shooting from above to show the surface of a pizza or from the side to capture the layers in a cake.

Sprinkle fresh herbs, drizzle sauce, or add a garnish to make the dish appear mouthwatering and ready to eat.

Play with Angles

Experiment with different angles to find the best one for each dish.

Top-down view: Ideal for flat foods like pizzas or spreads with multiple items.

45-degree angle: Provides a perspective similar to how we see food on a table, great for cakes and bowls.

Eye level: Works well for foods with layers, like burgers or stacked pastries, to emphasize their height and structure.

Use Minimal Editing for a Natural Look

Keep editing subtle to maintain the dish’s natural appeal.

Adjust brightness, contrast, and sharpness to make the image crisp and vibrant, but avoid over-editing.

Tools like Lightroom or Snapseed can be helpful for quick, effective edits without compromising the food’s natural look.

Focus on Details and Small Imperfections

Little details can bring food photography to life. A sprinkle of sugar, steam rising from hot soup, or a splash of sauce can add excitement to the image.

Small imperfections, like crumbs around a pastry or a slightly melted scoop of ice cream, make the food look real and inviting.

Work with a food photographer in New Delhi like Farazdak Studio to capture these details and create photos that resonate with viewers.

Use Color to Create Contrast and Appeal

Vibrant colors can make food look more appealing and fresh. Use contrasting colors to make certain elements pop.

Bright ingredients like red tomatoes, green herbs, or yellow lemons add visual interest and depth to the photo.

Be mindful of the color harmony between the dish, props, and background to create a cohesive look.

Capture the Story of the Dish

Food photography isn’t just about the final dish; it’s about telling its story. Show ingredients, preparation steps, or hands adding finishing touches.

Incorporate elements that reflect the dish’s origin or style, such as chopsticks with sushi or rustic bread with soup.

Farazdak Studio, known as the best photographer in New Delhi, excels at capturing these storytelling elements that make each photo unique.

Invest in Quality Equipment or a Professional Food Photographer

Good photography equipment can make a difference in the final result. DSLR cameras, prime lenses, and a tripod are essential for sharp, high-quality images.

For businesses, restaurants, or brands, working with a food photographer in New Delhi like Farazdak Studio ensures top-quality photos that truly stand out.

Professional photographers understand lighting, composition, and editing, helping your food photography reach a professional standard.

Why Choose Farazdak Studio for Your Food Photography?

Farazdak Studio is recognized as the best photographer in New Delhi, specializing in high-quality food photography. Their experienced team brings a creative approach to each shoot, highlighting the best features of every dish and making it visually irresistible. With a keen eye for detail, Farazdak Studio delivers images that reflect the essence of the food and make it come alive on screen or in print.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a food blogger, restaurant owner, or a brand looking to enhance your food photography, applying these tips will help make your photos stand out. For professional results, consider working with Farazdak Studio, a trusted food photographer in New Delhi. Their expertise in lighting, composition, and food styling will elevate your food photography, attracting more attention and leaving a lasting impression on viewers.