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justforbooks · 4 months ago

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How Deborah Levy can change your life

From her shimmering novels to her ‘living autobiographies’, Deborah Levy’s work inspires a devotion few literary authors ever achieve

Last August, the author Deborah Levy began to sit for her portrait. The starting point was a selfie – eyes penetrating, lips sensuous, head topped by a tower of chestnut hair. The artist, her friend Paul Heber-Percy, used Photoshop, then a pencil and tracing paper, to reverse and multiply the image of her face, until he had a drawing, neatly laid out on a grid, that satisfied him.

Then it was time to paint. He liked to work in the mornings, in hour-long bursts, in his tiny attic studio. When Levy came for sittings, he’d bring the painting down to the dining room, and the two of them would drink tea or wine, and talk. Not that these were sittings in the traditional sense, but “times I could observe her without feeling self-conscious”, he said.

Sometimes they’d discuss Levy’s new novel, August Blue, which she was finishing; but mostly it was “everyday things – friends, the news, exchanging recipes, how to unblock a sink”, said Levy. But, Heber-Percy said, nothing about these conversations was really everyday. She is the sort of person who makes the mundane remarkable. Even “going down to the bakery with her to get a baguette becomes a slightly magical thing”, says her friend the novelist Tash Aw. When her friends talk about her, they say things like this: “she is an event”, “she is a personage”, “she is a whole world”. People often remember the first time they met her. For Kate Bland, an audio producer, it was at a party at a Shoreditch warehouse. Levy was sitting on a high windowsill; Bland was leaning on it. The author’s rich, slightly breathy voice was coming over Bland’s shoulder. Talk unwound in a sequence of dazzling vignettes. “It seemed that there was a necessary theatricality: we had to hoist ourselves out of the ordinariness of chat and have a conversation that was going to be memorable,” she recalled. “I was quite thrilled by it.”

At the time of that party, in 2008, Levy was 49. Her life had contained one immense dislocation: when she was nine, her family emigrated from South Africa to the UK, after her father had spent three years as a political prisoner. After school at a London comprehensive, Levy took a theatre degree at the pioneering, avant-garde Dartington College of the Arts in Devon, and first forged a path as a playwright. Her first novel, Beautiful Mutants, was published in 1989, the year she turned 30. Twenty years on, at the time of the Shoreditch party, she wasn’t famous, and hadn’t sold more than a modest number of books, though she carried herself as if she had. She was teaching, adapting Colette and Carol Shields for the radio, raising two daughters, and living with her husband, playwright David Gale, in a semi-detached house off Holloway Road in north London. She was working on a novel, her first since 1996. Her previous books were out of print.

Four years later, Levy’s life was transformed. Her novel, Swimming Home – a sun-drenched story about a family holiday on the French Riviera, beneath whose glinting surface runs a Freudian riptide of wartime trauma – was shortlisted for the 2012 Booker prize. That sent sales flying. At the same time, her marriage fell apart. “By the time I went to the Booker dinner in December I knew I would be moving house and I was packing up,” she recalled. “It was very turbulent and very painful.”

The following year, she published Things I Don’t Want to Know, the first in a trilogy of what she calls “living autobiographies”, to convey their selective, fictive nature. Over the next few years, she alternated two more novels, Hot Milk and The Man Who Saw Everything, with two more volumes of living autobiography, which spoke of how, after her marriage ended, she recomposed a life for herself and her daughters in her 50s, outside the old patriarchal structures. All of these books, flew out of her “like a cork coming out of a bottle”.

Levy’s novels are popular and critically acclaimed. But it is with the living autobiographies that her reputation has transcended the literary. At events, readers tell Levy that her books make them feel less lonely, or ask her what to do about a life crisis. (One can’t quite imagine readers doing this with, say, Rachel Cusk, who also anatomises female experience, but in a somewhat chillier style.) At one of Levy’s online readings during the Covid pandemic, an audience member posted in the chat: “I’m 41 with two kids and sometimes I don’t feel I’m at home at all … Did it work for you, coming out of an unhappy marriage?” Levy answered: “It did work for me. You have to make another sort of life and gather your friends and supporters to your table” – which is pretty much the story of the second and third of her living autobiographies, The Cost of Living and Real Estate.

Levy’s writing has a very particular quality: it seems to infiltrate the mind. You absorb her way of seeing and start to perceive the world in Levy-ish ways. In her stories, seemingly trivial moments take on political force: an encounter with a hairdresser in The Cost of Living becomes a story about the camaraderie of women and what they reveal to each other; a scene about sharing a table on the Eurostar becomes about how men, literally and figuratively, fail to make space for younger women. In the new novel, August Blue, the narrator, having been insulted by a young man in a cafe, tells us, “I think he was expecting me to respond, to reply in some way, but I didn’t care about him or his problems.” I’ve used that in my own life more than once, since first reading it. The books become “almost a guide to life”, said Gaby Wood, director of the Booker Foundation. “She trains you to become your best self.”

Part of the appeal of Levy’s writing is that it is shot through with unpatronising sympathy towards younger women – both the hesitant, tough young female characters who populate her novels, and those who appear in her living autobiographies, often negotiating sticky situations with older, entitled men. In Real Estate, there is a passage in which she describes her joy in cooking for her daughters’ friends: “I liked their appetite – yes, for the dish prepared, but for life itself. I wanted them to find strength for all they had to do in the world and for all the world would throw at them.” She is not just talking about her daughters’ friends. Levy is also in the business of feeding and strengthening her readers. And they feel it.

The plays and the novels Levy wrote in her 20s and 30s are collage-like, gravelly, spiky, and dense, marinated in the eastern European avant-garde influences she absorbed at college. She had a talent for epigrammatic, slightly surreal sentences. “I once heard a man howl just like a wolf except he was standing in a phone box in Streatham,” says a character in her first novel. But the work had not yet acquired the razored-away, spare quality that has given the later work such airiness, such ripple and flow, nor was there the emotional force with which readers identify so strongly.

It was in the late 2000s that she forged the style that transformed her reputation. She was working at the Royal College of Art at the time. Two days a week, she’d take the tube from the fumes of Holloway Road to green South Kensington. She was a tutor in the animation department, helping students learn to write and construct narrative. “It was a potent time,” she said. Her colleagues at the Royal College of Art were inspiring; so were her students. At nights, while her young daughters slept, she was writing Swimming Home. “I was somehow living closer to my own emotions and understood that I might be able to put them to work in my book.” She had always felt that emotion was frowned upon by her avant-garde art “family”, but “from Swimming Home onwards, I decided to totally up-end that”. Charging the story with feeling changed her writing – and her relationship with readers. “I knew I was on to something, and it rocked me,” she recalled. “There were times when I’d stop writing and I’d come down to cook my daughters spaghetti in the evening. There was a sort of cool place under the steps, and I was so on fire, I would just stand there and cool down.”

What Levy found in her writing was a way of giving her story a shimmering, attractive surface, while allowing her preoccupations with literary theory, myth and psychoanalysis to occupy its murkier depths. The novel can be taken as “a kind of holiday novel gone wrong”, she said – and it has been slipped into many a suitcase as a beach or poolside read. “I’m happy if the surface is read. Because everything else is there to be found. And I’m working hard for my readers to find it. But I don’t look down on readers who don’t. I think, ‘Something will come through.’” The “something” might include the Freudian desire and death-wish that suffuses the novel; its peculiar linked imagery of sugar mice and rats; above all the immense treacherous undertow of history – of the Holocaust, of 20th-century suffering and wars – that Levy sketches into the story with almost imperceptible strokes.

But Swimming Home was rejected by every major publisher it was sent to. Levy, in all her certainty that it was good, was devastated. The years following the financial crisis of 2008 were inhospitable to a midlist novelist who hadn’t been in print for a while. The publishing industry was in trouble; the powerful new wave of feminism of the 2010s was a whisper rather than a roar; and the kind of spare, experimental books by women that would come to define recent literary trends, such as Cusk’s auto-fictional Outline trilogy, or Annie Ernaux’s intimate unfurling of memory, or Elena Ferrante’s revelatory novels on female friendship, had yet to appear in Britain. At the time, she said, “your book was either going to sell or it wasn’t going to sell, and when they said it was ‘too literary’, they meant it wasn’t going to sell”.

Then, in summer 2009, something changed. A friend of Levy’s, the late Jules Wright, who ran an arts centre in east London, read the manuscript. She was organising a show on photographer Dean Rogers, who documented the sites of car crashes that had killed cultural heroes – the spot, for example, where Marc Bolan died. Swimming Home begins with a scene in which Kitty Finch, a young woman with a death wish, perilously drives an older poet, with whom she believes she has a telepathic connection, along a winding mountain road. Wright decided to have the first two pages of the book printed large and installed at the beginning of the exhibition. Not long after the opening, though, she called Levy and bluntly announced she was removing them. It was a disaster, she said – people were clogging the entrance as they stopped to read the text. “It was,” Levy said, “the first spark: that those two pages of this much-declined book were gathering a crowd around them.”

Eventually the novel did find its publisher, a tiny new press called And Other Stories. The literary translator Sophie Lewis was editor there. Levy’s pitch, remarkably given all the rejections, was supremely confident. “Deborah said: ‘This is the tightest book I’ve ever written, and it’s going to be a bestseller,’” Lewis remembered.

In autumn 2011, Levy’s friend Charlotte Schepke, who runs Large Glass gallery in London, hosted the launch party. They decided to project The Swimmer, the 1968 Burt Lancaster film, on to the wall. On the night, to Schepke’s immense surprise, “you couldn’t stand – the place was absolutely packed. It was rammed.” Her interesting new friend, who had written witty labels for the opening show at her small gallery earlier that year, was suddenly making waves. It was almost, said Schepke, “as if she’d done this grand thing of claiming to be an author – and then, suddenly, she really was an author”.

In her living autobiographies, Levy frequently refers to her rented shed, a writing space in a friend’s garden, on whose roof the apples used to fall in autumn with a dull thunk. These days, as she moves deeper into her 60s, the shed has been replaced by an attic in Paris, a few blocks behind the bookshop Shakespeare & Company, near the Seine. On a limpid blue February day, she had pinned a branch of yellow mimosa to her front door. Its flowering marked, she said, the “end of gloomy, rat-grey January”.

The studio was as near to the platonic ideal of a Paris garret as you could imagine: reached by a winding stair through a courtyard, and with low ceilings and wooden beams. Kilim rugs were scattered on the floor, and her bed was covered in a fluffy sheepskin throw. There was a stash of red wine in the fireplace. Everything about the studio radiated her delight in objects and food and pleasure. If you met the author and saw the studio before you read the work, you might expect something more excessive and elaborate than the stripped-down, translucent prose she produces.

She poured coffee from a moka pot and passed me a dish heaped with croissants from her local boulangerie, La Maison D’Isabelle; pastries from the same shop turn up in the new novel. Objects from her real world often slip into her fiction. There was a biography of Isadora Duncan face-out on a shelf, perhaps the same book about the dancer she has her character Elsa read in August Blue. On a table stood a bowl of pearl necklaces, and at her throat were pearls – like the pearl necklace she has her beautiful, careless character Saul wear in her novel, The Man Who Saw Everything.

Things in her stories often hold the kind of powerful significance that Freud attaches to artefacts in dreams – such as the pool in Swimming Home, which, at its most basic, Levy pointed out, is a rectangular hole in the ground, and thus also metaphorically a grave. She loves the surrealists. The turning point of Hot Milk is the moment when her narrator, Sofia, discovers boldness through making bloody handprints on the kitchen wall of a man who has been tormenting his dog – a scene borrowed from a story told about the artist Leonora Carrington who, letting herself into the apartment of her prospective lover Luis Buñuel, smeared menstrual blood over his pristine white walls.

Motifs slip between books, too; in this she has something in common with a visual artist building a subtly interconnected body of work. The title August Blue, for example, is taken from the colour of the thread that, in Hot Milk, one character Ingrid uses to embroider Sofia’s name into a shirt. Horses, in particular, gallop through Levy’s work – from the tiny horse-shaped buttons that, in Real Estate, she kept from her late stepmother’s button box, to the moment Ingrid appears in the desert landscape on horseback, like a bellicose goddess, in the myth-infused Hot Milk. The whole of August Blue hangs on striking images of horses: it begins with her character, the pianist Elsa, watching jealously as a woman she thinks might be her doppelganger buys a pair of mechanical dancing horses in an Athens flea market.

Levy laughed when I asked her about her equine enthusiasms. “That’s a case for Dr Freud!” she said. She ponders, in Real Estate, what it is to be a woman “on your high horse”. Sometimes, she writes, you might find yourself incapable of controlling your high horse; at other times, people are all too eager to to pull you off it. She imagines a friend riding her high horse “down the North Circular to repair her smashed screen at Mr Cellfone”. When I think of Levy’s horses, I also think of her adoration of her small fleet of e-bikes, now famous from her living autobiographies, which she stables by her London flat and lends to friends when they visit; she bought her first when she moved out of her marriage and into her new life. When they start up with a little equine surge of power, she told me, “it’s hard not to whoop every time”.

When Levy was a small child in South Africa, and her father, Norman Levy, was imprisoned for his anti-apartheid activism, she started to speak so quietly that her voice became barely audible. What saved her from this state of virtual silence was her imagination: the dawning understanding that she could write other realities. “It was a question,” Levy told me, “of finding avatars.” The avatar she created for her nine-year-old self was a cat with wondrous powers of flight – perhaps unconsciously imagining freedom for her father, as well as liberation for herself. (In Real Estate, The Flying Cat is the name she gives to the ferry that brings her daughters to her for a holiday on a Greek island.) The characters in her fiction are still her avatars. “I’m in every one of them,” she said, “including the cats and including the horses.”

For a long time, in adulthood, she resisted writing or even talking about South Africa. The difficulties of her family felt irrelevant, when set against the struggles of black South Africans. But since she had decided to base the structure of Things I Don’t Want to Know on George Orwell’s headings in his essay Why I Write – one of which is “historical impulse” – she found herself obliged to tackle those repressed memories. Using a child’s eye view, she said, “I tried to convey, without using the old language of ‘the bloodstained regime of apartheid’, what it’s like to be told that you’re supposed to respect adults, while there are white adults who are clearly doing very cruel things to children of colour my age.”

Her mother, Philippa, through her husband’s imprisonment, coped alone, earning a living through a succession of secretarial jobs. Levy remembers her as capable and glamorous. “I loved the way she cooked, with her cigarette holder, and the way that she’d dance a bit to the record she’d put on when she came back from work.”

When Levy’s father was released in 1968, he was banned from working, and the family – Levy has an elder half-brother from her mother’s first marriage, as well as a younger brother and sister – had little option but to emigrate. Her father found work lecturing at Middlesex University, among other places. Money was tight. Her parents’ marriage ended in 1974.

After the “blue sky, and the bone-white grass of the garden” in Johannesburg, arriving in London felt “as if someone had pulled the plug out”. But despite England’s greyness, she loved it. She made, for the first time, proper friends. “I don’t have that narrative of exile, of wanting to return to the place that you left”. She adored the way people spoke, and she still delights in English turns of phrase: “Hello pet, hello lamb, hello duck.” As for her accent, “I had to lose it very quickly in the playground not to be beaten up.”

She often plucks her characters out of their familiar environments, partly in order to see their psychological foibles magnified on foreign shores. (She herself likes very much to be in a hot country, in southern Spain or a Greek island, swimming in the sea.) Sometimes these characters, like her, have been swept on the tides of 20th-century history – like the English poet Joe in Swimming Home, who is really Jozef, smuggled out of Łódź in 1943; or Lapinski in Beautiful Mutants, whose mother was “the ice-skating champion of Moscow”. Levy recalled of an interview in the news that moved her recently: it was with a Ukrainian woman from Kherson who had been lying in bed, thinking, when she was blown into her kitchen by a Russian shell. “Those were her words: ‘I was lying in bed, thinking,’” said Levy. “I do not take a place of calm, a place that is agreeable to think in, for granted.” Levy’s senses are finely tuned to the fragility of things.

After her A-levels, in the summer of 1978, she would walk past the Gate cinema in Notting Hill, timidly noting the thrilling, eccentrically dressed people who hung out there. One day, she saw an ad in the Evening Standard for front-of-house staff. For the interview, she put on a pair of big, gold platform wedges; as she left the house, her mother yelled, “‘You’ll never get a job dressed like that.’” Those gold wedges are the ancestors of the shoes that have carried her female characters on to victory, or else to triumphant defeat: the silver gladiator sandals that Ingrid, like the goddess Athena, straps high up her calves in Hot Milk; the sage-green Parisian tap shoes that get her into a scrape in Real Estate; the brothel creepers that, to her younger self, “marked me out for a meaningful life”; and the “scuffed brown leather shoes with high snakeskin heels” that we meet on page three of August Blue.

She got the job at the Gate. Her new colleagues were “either at drama school or off to university, and all way cooler than me. I was a nerdy writer” – of poetry, at the time – “with a great love of Bowie.” The cinema was screening Derek Jarman’s film Jubilee, “and he would come in, and he was curious and charismatic and friendly and cultured and he didn’t feel above talking to this 18-year-old making the popcorn, tearing the tickets and scooping the ice cream”. It was Jarman who told her she should apply not to university but to Dartington, where she’d learn about improvisation and dance and avant-garde theatre and art.

It was at this time, not having the kind of parents who dragged her round galleries at weekends, that she encountered contemporary art for the first time. It was an exhibition of the work of Joseph Beuys. She remembers, a grand piano muffled and covered with cloth marked with a cross; other objects made of gold leaf; dried plants tacked to the wall; things scribbled in pencil. “I remember almost not being able to breathe. And there was this voice inside my head, saying, ‘This is it. This is it.’ And I had no idea what it was.”

The Cost of Living opens with the narrator witnessing an encounter between a young woman and an older man in a bar in Colombia. The man, whom Levy calls “the Big Silver”, invites the young woman to his table. After she tells him a strange story about a perilous diving expedition, he remarks that she talks a lot, and carelessly knocks her book off the table. Levy writes: “It had not occurred to him that she might not consider herself to be the minor character and him the major character.” It is a very Levy-ish story, in its wry observation of dynamics between men and women, and with its implicit call to arms to women who have, as the critic Dwight Garner has put it, “come to sense they’re not locked into their lives and stories”.

Levy herself is without doubt a major character – and is intent on expanding the role. She has an immense appetite “for experiencing the strange dimensions of living and the absolutely practical dimensions”, she said. We were sitting, at the time, outside a cafe near the Panthéon in Paris after a good lunch, and Levy was smoking a roll-up. “I’m not endlessly open to experience. I am easily bored and impatient. I want to keep things moving, keep thought moving. I want to make something new of the old story. How do you make the novel as complicated as life, as interesting as life? That’s what I want to do.”

She has many plans. She wants to adapt her two most recent novels for the screen. (Swimming Home and Hot Milk are in other scriptwriters’ hands.) She knows exactly, how the opening scene of August Blue will go, and she has the perfect idea of how to tackle the temporal complexities of The Man Who Saw Everything, which slips, through its main character’s fractured consciousness, between the Berlin of 1988 and the London of 2016. In The Cost of Living, Levy fantasises about living in California and writing scripts by her pool. When I teased her lightly about the unlikelihood of this, she said, “You never know. I just might be there in my swimming costume at 80, writing films. I’d have a river now – with a little rowing boat tied to the jetty, and I’d smoke, drink coffee and write my scripts, I think probably in France.”

In the meantime, now that her daughters are in their 20s, she comes from her London flat to work in her Paris studio for weeks at a time. She is taking French lessons, though presently her literary enthusiasms outstrip her linguistic ability. “I say, ‘Shall we translate this poem of Apollinaire together?’ and my teacher says, ‘I think today, Deborah, we will try to master être and avoir.’” Her most natural creative affinities are in fact French – Godard, Duras – rather than British. To her evident delight, Levy has won one of France’s most important literary awards, the Prix Femina Étranger. She has not yet won a major prize in Britain, despite multiple short listings, perhaps because British prizes tend to favour large, self-sufficient, discrete slabs of fiction.

She begins her days early, with a walk by the Seine. After work there might be an exhibition, or dinner – which she might depart, more than one friend told me, with sudden decision, announcing that she is back off to work. She looked abashed when I mentioned this habit, worried she might appear rude to her friends. “I’m immensely sociable and then I really need to be on my own. I do like to write after a dinner party,” she said. (She herself loves to cook – “delicious mountains of cream and garlic, and the kitchen is like a bomb site,” Charlotte Schepke said, “but it’s like being in the finest restaurant. Her presence makes it an occasion”.)

At the moment, in a sharp change of gear, she is researching a biography of the young Gertrude Stein, to be titled Mama of Dada. She is concentrating on the writer’s early training under psychologist William James, brother of the novelist Henry. Levy wants to think about how this academically brilliant American – who’d be late for her medical lectures because her bustled skirts were weighted down by horsehair-stuffed hems – moved to Paris, ditched the corset and became the pioneering modernist who dressed in monk-like robes and filled her house with Picassos.

It’s a characteristic way for Levy to build character. But while the books are rooted in the physical, they also make room for the uncanny and the unexplained, for the sudden intrusion into a person’s consciousness of unwelcome memories or dark imaginings. “It would be very sad to have all the possibilities of the novel, this hot-air balloon, but to say, ‘I only write social realism and the hot-air balloon must never leave the ground,’” she said. “That’s not how people’s minds work: people have very strange dreams, and thoughts, and daydreams, and associations.” She is, she said, very careful not to let her hot-air balloon float away into the clouds of fantasmagoria. It is all in the balance and control.

What also earths Levy’s work is her wit. “She is so amused, diverted and delighted by life,” said the actor Tilda Swinton, who is a fan. Her jokes, often wryly commenting on her own failings, make for a kind of intimacy, even complicity – “the kind of complicity that many of us can only relate to the dry land of childhood companionship”, said Swinton. Levy’s women, especially the “I” of the living autobiographies, fail as well as succeed; they have good days and bad. They are neither “feisty” and “gutsy” – those tiresome cliches – nor are they self-saboteurs, who put themselves down to ingratiate themselves with the reader. They are both real and offer an example of how to live well. When Levy was finding a way to write her living autobiographies, she searched for a voice that “was immensely powerful, immensely vulnerable; immensely eloquent and totally inarticulate. Because that’s all of us.”

In March, I went back to Paul Heber-Percy’s house to see her portrait finished. It renders Levy’s face in triplicate, as if seen through a kaleidoscope, and her hair, piled on her head, soars upwards like Medusa’s snaky locks, dissolving into abstract, Rorschach-like patterns and repetitions. It gave the impression of a presence with many selves, in constant movement of thought. In the portrait, Levy has five large, wide-open, scrutinising eyes; but one of her tripled faces disappears into the world outside the frame, and the sixth eye is unseen.

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trans-ralsei · 4 months ago

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weird scene at my local mall: a trump cap. for sale.

it's odd because the home city (which, i should reiterate, isn't usamerican) didn't exactly like trump the first time, though I think that is starting to change in a worrying way.

the mall where i live (in the prime minister's ward) is notoriously tiny by home city standards. it is smaller than a rural 商店街.

even then you see a lot of weird shit. every now and then there's a stall selling fake metal band shirts. sometimes there's stacks of bras for sale. there's a guy selling gunpla and trading cards (my local konbini is also a trading card hub, though I've rarely gone since my transition).

so this cap isn't exactly too weird. it was displayed with other americana, like another FBI cap. the seller probably got a bunch of goods from taobao in order to resell at a stall. they're probably not fascists, i reasoned.

still, it filled me with rage when i walked past.

we've been working, for years, to hold back the divisive hate that is trump from our society. we're seeing concern trolling from the UK and US being adopted by anti-trans forces here. we're struggling for solutions on how we could defeat the far-right voices that have constantly been amplified on social media. we're crossing our fingers that the home city's news media — my colleagues — don't turn against us.

and so, in a tiny protest, i unhooked the cap from its display when the attendant wasn't looking and just let it fall onto the floor. i considered throwing it to the bin (it is trash) but i thought that the confrontation that would ensue wasn't worth it.

i didn't see it while getting dinner yesterday or lunch today, so maybe this worked. or maybe someone bought it. or maybe another person had the reason and sense to talk to the stall attendant. i doubt i'll see them again - they're closing up for the lunar new year - but i genuinely worry that i'll see more of this in the next four years.

#ral.txt

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roadtooffgrid · 10 days ago

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youtube

We Tried TIG Welding For The First Time! | Tea Station 2.0 In this bonus episode, we're stepping out of our comfort zone (for once) to try our hand at TIG welding! Our next big project is to design and build some large aluminium chassis storage boxes which is going to require some very skilled fabrication. So to prepare ourselves we are rebuilding our beloved tea station (RIP). ⚡ Thanks to VTOMAN for sending us their Portable Power Station 🙏 Check out the Jump 2200 and SAVE £630 in their Earth Day flash sale here: https://bit.ly/4cmlyAA 💰 Save EVEN MORE with our discount code - VTUKJP22Q1G (extra £20 off) - Expires May 31st 2025 #vtoman #jump2200 ⭐ Enter our RAFFLE for a chance to WIN the VTOMAN Jump 2200 (and support the channel 🙏) ⭐ https://ift.tt/0BLlFHz Note: Only UK shipping is included. The power station we are offering has UK plug sockets. ⚡ HITBOX ALUMINIUM AC/DC TIG WELDER ⚡ https://ift.tt/ThqMsgn ⚙ Check out our recent hydraulic levelling system build here! Part 1: https://youtu.be/svs_FsdAnFQ Part 2: https://youtu.be/gNVG30v2iHc 🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. https://www.youtube.com/@RoadToOffGrid/?sub_confirmation=1 ✅ Important Links to Follow 🔗 Support Us Here! ✨Patreon: https://ift.tt/JuksNlC ☕Buy us a coffee: https://ift.tt/PDCJm7X 💰PayPal: https://ift.tt/5hmGYML 💫Wishlist: https://ift.tt/TPZOGmf 🔗 Stay Connected With Us. Facebook: https://ift.tt/SNnoijc Instagram: https://ift.tt/sGXzI3w TikTok: https://ift.tt/4i2yTpC 📩 For business enquiries: [email protected] ============================= 🎬Suggested videos for you: ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0AP9trck9wM ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-XeRZ_aWJ5I ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5S2V_18pbo ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GyXm8_sjGqY ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQ5gNdbRD44 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FM_q1AVuCeg ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ggc464oN1n4 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ztrup0h-2lA ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fF86_PKqrA0 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuNwc0QAqaI ================================= ✅ About Road To Off Grid. Welcome to Road to Off Grid! We’re Pete and Hayley, a husband-and-wife duo from the south of the UK, sharing our adventure as we transition to off-grid living and self-sufficiency. Starting from scratch, we’re documenting every challenge, success, and lesson learned along the way. Our first big project? Transforming a 7.5-tonne Mercedes LN2 814 truck into a cozy tiny home on wheels. This will be our mobile base as we work toward our ultimate goal—establishing a thriving off-grid community and building a sustainable business on our land. If you're passionate about sustainable living, DIY projects, and the freedom of off-grid life, join us for a more independent future! via Road To Off Grid https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC58LHiyim_aS4MKM6AazMpA May 04, 2025 at 10:12PM

#offgrid #freedom #offgridliving #truckcamper #mechanic #horsebox #tinyhouse #selfsufficient #vanlife #Youtube

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randomvarious · 17 days ago

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Video of the day:

Desmond Dekker - "Israelites" 1969 Reggae

Desmond Dekker's "Israelites" is the groundbreaking tune that simultaneously introduced Jamaican reggae to scores of folks across both the US and UK. They'd scarcely heard anything quite like these unique riddims that the tiny island nation had been producing since at least the late 50s with ska, and this song would lead to countless other Jamaican artists gaining popularity outside of their own Caribbean home too. As a mega-soulful Rasta classic, "Israelites" evokes something akin to American negro spirituals of more than a century past, and is also in a similar vein to something like Harry Belafonte's well-known "Day-O," a mid-50s calypso rendering of a Jamaican folk song that likely dated back to the early 1900s.

One of the first reggae songs to hit the top ten in the US and the first Jamaican song to ever top the UK singles chart too. A legendary breakout hit for the genre that ended up forever altering its own trajectory, as international sales would help fuel its Jamaican-centered industry.

#reggae #oldies #music #60s #60s music #60's #60's music #Youtube

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douglashallkennels · 4 months ago

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Why Yorkshire Terriers Love to Snuggle: The Science Behind It

Did you know that about 36% of UK households own at least one dog, which means that there are about 13.5 million dogs? If you, too, want to be a dog parent and are looking for the right breed, we would say Yorkies are an excellent choice!

(Source: https://www.statista.com/statistics/515333/dogs-ownership-in-the-united-kingdom-uk/ )

Yorkshire Terriers are like little bundles of joy. If you ever had the opportunity to be pet parents to these adorable fur pals, you have probably experienced their adorable snuggle sessions firsthand. One moment, these canine cuties are zipping around the house with boundless energy, and the next, they are curled up in your lap, ready for some serious cuddle time. If you are looking for a Yorkshire terrier for sale in Leeds and are wondering why Yorkies love to snuggle so much, we have the answer. Read on to explore the science, instincts and emotions behind this heart-melting behaviour.

Yorkshire and their Natural Instincts

Yorkshire Terriers love to snuggle because of their history. Did you know that they were originally bred in England to catch rats? Yes, these tiny dynamos once worked hard chasing vermin in factories and homes. However, over time, they have transitioned into lap dogs for royalty and high society.

But here’s the thing: Yorkies are tiny, and small dogs like them are more prone to losing body heat. So, guess what? Snuggling with you isn’t just cute- it’s practical. Your warmth is their personal heated blanket, and they instinctively seek closeness for comfort and security. So, the next time your Yorkie burrows under a blanket or nuzzles into your side, remember- it’s part instinct, part love.

The Emotional Side of Snuggling

Yorkies are Velcro dogs. If you’ve got one, you already know they love to stick close to you, no matter where you go. Cooking dinner? They’re right there. Heading to the couch? They have claimed your lap before you even sit down.

Yorkies are social animals, and their desire to snuggle is their way of saying, “You are my favourite human, and I want to be with you!” It’s all about building that emotional bond. When they snuggle, it’s their version of a hug, a trust fall, and a love letter all rolled into one.

This content was originally published on: Douglas Hall Kennels LTD

This has been republished with permission.

Original Source: https://www.douglashallkennels.co.uk/yorkshire-terrier/why-yorkshire-terriers-love-to-snuggle-the-science-behind-it/

#Yorkshire Terrier for Sale

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deane247com · 4 months ago

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Top Deals on Refurbished Dell Laptops and Desktops

Choosing Refurbished Dell Laptops for Sale is a wise, well-informed choice that goes beyond simply saving money. To make sure they fulfill manufacturer requirements, these laptops are carefully examined, fixed, and tested. This meticulous procedure ensures that you get a high-performing gadget that is frequently identical to a new one. Refurbished Dell laptops meet all needs without sacrificing quality, whether you're a professional working on challenging projects, a student completing tasks, or a casual user perusing the web.

The ability to customize reconditioned computers is an additional advantage. To make sure the laptop meets your needs, several sellers, like deane247, let you replace particular parts like RAM or storage. Because of this adaptability, reconditioned laptops are a great option for people looking for gadgets that change over time to meet their demands.

Dell Desktops: A Powerhouse in Any Environment

Dell desktops UK are a mainstay in both home and professional settings when it comes to dependability and performance. These computers' strong processors, abundant storage, and potent graphics capabilities enable them to manage multitasking with ease. Whether you're managing company operations, designing, coding, or gaming, Dell PCs provide reliable performance to keep you on top of trends.

Purchasing a Dell desktop also guarantees durability. Their modular architecture make it simple to upgrade parts like graphics cards or RAM, increasing the device's lifespan and keeping it relevant in a rapidly changing technological environment. This results in a more productive workplace and a cheaper total cost of ownership for organizations.

The Effects of Refurbished Technology on the Environment

Buying reconditioned electronics is one way to help create a more sustainable future. Electronics production generates a lot of waste and uses a lot of resources. Choosing Refurbished Dell Laptops for Sale lowers e-waste, promotes a circular economy, and lessens the need for new manufacturing. It's a tiny action that has a significant impact on protecting the earth for coming generations.

At deane247, client satisfaction, price, and quality are our top priorities. We thoroughly inspect each reconditioned laptop and desktop in our inventory to make sure it satisfies the highest performance requirements. We aim to give you gadgets that offer outstanding value and dependability since we recognize that purchasing technology is an investment.

It's simple to browse a wide range of Dell laptops and desktops in the UK, compare specs, and locate the ideal fit for your requirements thanks to our user-friendly website. Additionally, our experienced staff is available at all times to help you with any questions, walk you through the purchasing process, and make sure you're happy with your purchase.

When you can get high-end Dell technology for a fraction of the cost, why settle for less? Deane247 offers everything you need, whether you're looking to upgrade to a powerful desktop or buy refurbished Dell laptops for sale. Discover the ideal blend of performance and cost by looking through our collection right now.

#Refurbished Dell Laptops

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mnfurnituresblog · 6 months ago

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Elevate Your Space with Sleek and Stylish Storage

If you wish to add a hint of elegance and classy look to your bedroom a white gloss wardrobe will work perfectly. High gloss wardrobe specifically the classic colors like white and black have become favorite sorts because they not only make the area look larger, more airy and appealing but also they are versatile. This guide looks at the advantages offered by gloss wardrobes, how to choose a perfect wardrobe, and how to purchase a white gloss wardrobe in UK.

The High Gloss Wardrobe – Why Choose One

Gloss wardrobes are particularly appreciated because they provide furniture with smooth, shiny and very glamorous fa?ade. But beyond their visual appeal, high gloss wardrobes offer a range of practical advantages:

Brightens the Space

Probably the most important features of gloss wardrobes is the fact that they help the room to look lighter thanks to reflecting the light. White gloss wardrobes are especially ideal when it comes to the reflection of natural light because they trend towards our main selling point – an open, airy appearance suited to poorly lit or tiny spaces.

Easy to Clean and Maintain

The surfaces of gloss paint are relatively simple when it comes to painting maintenance. You do not need to worry about accumulated dust and smudges as they can be easily wiped out and your wardrobe will remain clean all the time. A regular cleaning is often done with a clean microfiber cloth and some water and to remove stubborn marks, you don’t even need a harsh soap to clean the screen.

Modern and Timeless Appeal

Gloss wardrobes give a new trendy feel to any bedroom. Combined with modern home designs, this finish looks very aesthetic but blends well with traditional designs especially where a black or white finish has been selected. White gloss wardrobe is universal can suit different interior design and it has an elegant timeless appeal.

Durability and Longevity

High gloss wardrobes are generally built using very sturdy materials so as to be able to handle some use. Moreover, the finish protecting the wardrobe is as long-lasting which also does not fade away gradually so that it retains its modernity for years. This durability makes them an ideal investment especially if bought on a white gloss wardrobe sale.

Types of Gloss Wardrobes: Finding Your Perfect Match

High gloss wardrobes are available in different styles so that they can meet intended storage, size, and design requirements of the house. Here are some popular options to consider:

White High Gloss Beautiful Standalone Wardrobes

Freestanding wardrobes can be easily relocated, and your room can be rearranged anytime you want. These are specifically suitable to apartments or the people who often change the interior design, as they can be easily rearranged. A freestanding wardrobe with white gloss finish gives the room shine and is suitable for any environment and unobtrusive in relation to other furniture.

Built-In High Gloss Wardrobes

Many people like built-in wardrobes since these are designed to fit your home and more or less add value to the structure. For a more permanent wardrobing solution, a built-in high gloss wardrobe offers excellent storage and flexibility in areas where you cannot sacrifice floor space for other functions, all in a customizable solution for your needs.

White glossy wardrobe sliding door combination

Sliding door wardrobes are perfect for people with little space, as the doors don’t open and take up more room, getting in the way. White gloss sliding door wardrobe is space saver and decorate the room in a modern style. The operating or the movement of the slidebar is very easy, almost noiseless and provides a touch of elegance to your bedroom.

Mirrored Black and White Gloss Wardrobes

If you desire, you would like to have a best of both worlds then try having a dress with mirrored doors. This type of wardrobe will make the room more beautiful in addition to providing a valuable extra storage feature. The mirror has contributed to the general spaceness of the area and the everyday use when dressing or grooming oneself. A white high-gloss wardrobe with mirrors or a black high-gloss wardrobe with mirrors can also attract much attention in any room.

Why You Should Invest in a White Gloss Wardrobe on Sale in the UK

The current variety of white gloss wardrobe in the store is a unique chance to buy such exclusive furniture at hot price. Here’s why shopping during a sale is a great choice:

Low Cost Prices for the Best Artistic Dresses

These are commonly very expensive due to their manufacture, which is sleek and smooth owing to the high gloss polish. Getting a wardrobe during a white gloss wardrobe sale in the UK is a unique opportunity to buy expensive items for lower prices which can help to get a quality item without overspending.

Wide Selection of Styles

Sales events are usually filled clothing types and sizes; therefore, your choices are more numerous compared to when you are not on sale. As with any type of wardrobe, there are small, compact ones or multi-compartment big ones, so sales give men choice depending on size, compartments, and price.

Membership Special Offers

Temporary sales as well as the clearance of stocks could be used by furniture retailers is a good time to look for a cheap white or black gloss wardrobe. Purchasing your wardrobe at these times therefore can enable you get the best deal for the particular style and finish that you want.

A white gloss wardrobe sale UK means adding a fabulous and reflective piece of furniture to your bedroom that doesn’t just look good and reflect light, but also adds functionality to the decor.

#wardrobe for sale #wardrobe #sliding wardrobe #sliding mirror wardrobe

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fincrew · 8 months ago

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The Six Most Expensive Countries For Car Ownership

Buying a car is a costly endeavor, which explains why many people complain about the cost. Desired vehicles, in particular, are often quite expensive. The uncertain economic climate exacerbates the problem we're in right now. In Malaysia, motoring is not for the faint of heart - especially if you're into brand new cars. The further problem is that the country imposes some of the highest road taxes on automobiles globally. Recent car sales and parts sales for motor vehicles contribute the most to collecting import and excise duties. Then again, is Malaysia the most expensive country for buying and operating a car? Continue reading to find out.

Most Expensive Countries To Own a Car

Cuba There have been many positive changes in Cuba, at least on paper. Before 2011, it was nearly impossible to buy or sell. The island has been opened up to car manufacturers due to a tentative deregulation plan. Many popular brands and cars are available today, making it theoretically possible to buy and own one. Cuba has, unfortunately, remained an expensive country for automobile ownership. The second-hand market remains unaffected by the liberation, so many drivers cannot afford to buy used cars. The high cost of most cars is due to centralized price-setting and various taxes. Kitts and Nevis No doubt that this is a beautiful paradise on earth. As far as cars are concerned, St. Kitts and Nevis are more like a private hell. The costs of taxes are staggeringly high, making buying a car here one of the most expensive options. Perhaps only one positive aspect of this situation is that the island is tiny. Motorbikes and bicycles may be sufficient for your purposes. Brazil Car prices are ridiculously high in Brazil because of high taxes, high labor costs, and limited raw material supplies. You might end up doing some window shopping for a Brazilian-made car, like a locally manufactured Volkswagen. Many people consider importing cars because the available selection is poor. However, importing a vehicle can result in you being charged up to 100 percent of its value! There is also a lot of paperwork needed with autos, and fuel is heavily taxed! North Korea It is unlikely that many will or plan to buy a car in North Korea, but we would certainly have our hands full if we did. It may be possible for some government officials to get their hands on a Merc-copied Pyongyang 4.10, but others may not be so lucky. The purchasers of older Russian Volgas might find themselves dismayed to discover that their parts have not been imported in more than 20 years. You may want to take precautions if you own an automobile made outside of the country. Kim Jong Il reportedly got stuck behind a Japanese car in a traffic jam and ordered all Japanese vehicles to be confiscated at the time. Malaysia In Malaysia, car import policies protect home-grown automakers, particularly Proton. It is considered luxurious to drive a Toyota Camry or Honda Accord in this country. Malaysia has a unique situation when it comes to car prices. Here, even the most standard models sell at luxury car prices, making Malaysia the second most expensive country for car buyers. Even the least affluent Malaysians can afford to drive a Proton, which is not prohibitively expensive to own. Singapore Almost everyone knows that Singapore leads the list of the most expensive countries to buy a car. The truth is: Only 15% of Singaporeans can afford a car. Some car prices here are insane, such as the $135,988.00 Toyota Corolla, almost identical to the price of a new Scion FR-S. Even a Volkswagen Golf costs around $90,000 here. Those vehicles sell for about a third of that price in the UK. Cars in Singapore are so expensive because of their small size and dense population. Several measures have been set by the government of Singapore to regulate car ownership and use due to fears that there will be traffic jams if there are too many vehicles. The Land Transport Department also imposes a Certificate of Entitlement (COE), quotas for transport, road taxes, and electronic road charges, in addition to mandatory registration of vehicles. Despite Singapore's expensive car ownership, the country's public transportation system is among the world's best. The bottom line is that car ownership isn't always necessary, even for high-ranking executives. Read the full article

#CarOwnership #RoadTax

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mantisni · 9 months ago

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Affordable Jumping Spiders for Sale: Bring Home a Fascinating Arachnid Today

Few species enthrall in the realm of exotic pets like the jumping spider. These little, nimble arachnids are well-known for their brilliant colors, inquisitive demeanor, and amazing jumping capacity. Finding a reasonably priced jumping spider for sale can be the ideal approach to start or grow your collection, regardless of your level of experience with arachnids or newness of the field. But what distinguishes these spiders, and how can you make sure you're carrying home the correct one? Let us explore the intriguing realm of leaping spiders.

The Pleasure of Jumping Spiders

Not your usual eight-legged animals are jumping spiders. They do not reliant on webs to catch their prey unlike their web-spinning counterparts. Rather, they ambush and seize insects using their remarkable jumping prowess. They are a delight to see this activity in addition to their exceptional eyesight and distinct personalities.

Still, they distinguish out for more than only their hunting methods. Vibrant hues and complex patterns—which vary from brilliant greens and blues to startling black and white—rule jumping spiders. During courtship ceremonies, these colors are often shown in a brilliant dance when the males flaunt their vivid hues to draw a mate. It makes sense why so many people find appeal in these small wonders.

You're not unique if you're thinking of bringing a jumping spider home. The market for these amazing animals has expanded dramatically recently. Finding a jumping spider for sale has never been more simple as more individuals find the pleasures of arachnid ownership.

Selecting a Jumping Spider Perfect for Your Collection

Searching for a jumping spider for sale requires careful thought considering numerous elements. First, you really should pick a respectable seller. Purchasing from a reputable vendor guarantees that you are obtaining a healthy and well-kept spider since some species have particular care needs. A respectable seller can also provide you details about the species, age, and maintenance requirements of the spider.

The Phidippus regius, sometimes called the royal jumping spider, is among the most often occurring species of jumping spiders. Popular among collectors for their great size and vivid colors, these spiders include Still, there are plenty more species to pick from, each with special qualities. There is a jumping spider for every taste whether your preferred color is the strong hues of the Phidippus audax or the arresting designs of the Maratus volans.

Your choice of new spider acquaintance also heavily relies on their habitat. Though they require a suitable environment, jumping spiders are rather low-maintenance. Your spider will be content and healthy in a tiny, well-ventilated enclosure including lots of climbing surfaces and hiding places. Furthermore, offering a diet of live insects—fruit flies or tiny crickets—will guarantee they get the nutrients need.

But suppose you also want to grow your collection to include more species beyond jumping spiders. Many aficionados for arachnids also delve into the realm of tarantulas. Should you be living in the UK, you may discover a range of tarantulas for sale that would enhance your collection. Although tarantulas and jumping spiders have different care needs, owning both will allow you to discover the world of exotic pets more broadly.

Looking after Your New Jumping Spider

Taking a jumping spider home marks only the start of your journey. Your new pet will flourish only with proper care. Control of temperature and humidity is fundamental in nature of treatment. Native to many different environments, jumping spiders should be replicated as nearly as possible from their original habitat. Most species thrive with moderate humidity levels in temperatures between 70 and 80°F (21–27°C).

Still another essential component of treatment is regular nutrition. Carnivorous and favoring live prey, jumping spiders are Your spider will remain healthy if you feed it suitable sized insects every two to three days. Additionally vital is fresh water, which you can sprinkle the enclosure very gently.

Although handling your jumping spider can be a fulfilling activity, approach with care. Although these spiders are not often hostile, they can be fragile. Building trust between you and your pet can start with gently guiding your spider onto your palm and letting them explore at their own speed.

For individuals who also enjoy tarantulas, the care needs may be somewhat varied. Although tarantulas are sold in the UK and other areas, they usually need bigger enclosures and a more regulated surroundings. Nonetheless, tending to both jumping spiders and tarantulas may be rather fulfilling since it provides a wide spectrum of actions and traits to view.

Finally.

Possessing a leaping spider offers an interesting and thrilling experience. Any house gains awe and interest from these amazing animals. Finding a reasonably priced jumping spider for sale will help you to bring home a new pet whether your goal is to buy your first spider or grow your collection. Your jumping spider will flourish with the correct care and attention, therefore giving you many hours of delight.

And if you're looking at other arachnid species, don't overlook the several Tarantulas for Sale UK. Exotic pet world is large and every species has special appeal. Therefore, there is no better time to enter the realm of arachnid ownership, whether your attraction is to the vivid colors of jumping spiders or the striking presence of tarantulas.

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tinytudor · 2 months ago

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Tiny Homes for Sale UK – Compact Living with Big Benefits

Tiny homes for sale UK offer an affordable, sustainable, and flexible housing solution for those looking to downsize or embrace a minimalist lifestyle. With rising property prices, tiny homes provide a cost-effective way to own a home without the financial strain of traditional housing.

Benefits of Buying a Tiny Home in the UK

Affordability – Tiny homes are significantly cheaper than traditional houses, making homeownership more accessible.

Eco-Friendly Living – Many tiny homes are built with sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems.

Lower Maintenance Costs – With less space, maintenance, utility, and upkeep expenses are reduced.

Mobility & Flexibility – Some tiny homes are mobile, allowing owners to relocate as needed.

Minimalist Lifestyle – Encourages a clutter-free and simpler way of living.

Types of Tiny Homes Available in the UK

Static Tiny Homes – Permanently placed, ideal for rural or urban settings.

Mobile Tiny Homes – Built on trailers for those seeking a nomadic lifestyle.

Off-Grid Tiny Homes – Equipped with solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and composting toilets for sustainable living.

Custom-Built Tiny Homes – Designed to fit unique needs and preferences.

Where to Find Tiny Homes for Sale UK

Tiny homes are available from specialized builders, online marketplaces, and local property developers. Popular sources include:

Dedicated tiny home manufacturers

Online real estate platforms

Tiny home communities

Private sellers

Conclusion

Tiny house for sale UK offer a smart, cost-effective, and sustainable housing solution. Whether you're looking to downsize, live off-grid, or enjoy financial freedom, tiny homes provide a unique opportunity for modern living. Explore available tiny homes today and embrace compact living with big benefits. Visit more information for your website

#tiny house for sale uk #tiny house builders #park home uk #tiny homes uk

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shibainuhomepuppy · 1 year ago

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Shiba Inu For Sale UK – Shiba Inu Home

Shiba Inu Puppy is a very cute and playful dog that wins people's hearts. This is a small and beautiful dog of Japanese breed which is famous for its beautiful colors and sharp face. If you are looking for a Shiba Inu Puppy, then Shiba Inu Home may be the right place for you. This is a famous online place where you can find Shiba Inu puppies.

Shiba Inu puppies are also popular in UK, and if you are in UK and want to make a Shiba Inu Puppy a part of your home, then you can also find some options for Shiba Inu For Sale UK yes. It is always a good idea to get complete information about the upbringing and care of any animal before adopting it.

With their tiny faces and friendly behavior, raising Shiba Inu puppies can be an experience filled journey. Their intelligence and bright eyes make them even more special. Their nature is strong, and their training can be fairly easy, but it requires some time and patience.

Shiba Inu Home promises to provide you with the right and healthy puppies, so that you can welcome a new member in your home. If you want to bring a cute and playful Shiba Inu puppy to your home, then you will also have to take the responsibility of taking care of them and understanding them. These precious moments can provide you with memories and loving experiences which can fill your life with even more happiness.

#Shiba Inu For Sale UK #shiba inu puppies for sale uk #buy shiba inu puppy

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sainbasha · 1 year ago

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Cars and Cars- Karachi Memoirs

Cars and Cars

By: Naveed Qazi

Probably it was a 1952 model Buick. In those days mostly American or European cars plied on the streets of Pakistan. Cars were not very common and whoever could afford one in those days would buy an American made Chevrolet, Desoto, Ford, Buick, Dodge or some premium brand like a Cadillac or a Mercedes from Germany. The year was 1962, when I was born, and I was told that I came home in our Buick, which my dad had in those days. Further details about the car are not available. My paternal grandfather had a Desoto in those days. This car was also popular in those days but later the brand died its own death. Most of the American cars were luxurious and huge in size. Since petrol prices were not too much an issue, the cars did well in Pakistan. On the Jeep front, Willys and Ford were the popular ones. These were mostly used during world war and then became very popular with the civilians and you even find the restored versions from the 50’s still plying on the local roads.

After a couple of years later, (and what I recall or have been told), we bought a Hillman Minx. This was a British car. I very vaguely remember the car as I was very small but the vivid memory that I have of our next car was a Vauxhall Viva, which was a two door car and made in England. We kept this car till the year 1974. The sixties however, went through a lot changes as far as car preferences were concerned. Some of the brands which became popular and replacing the American Car market share in Pakistan, were of course Mercedes Benz, basically by those who could afford it. In those days the popular models were the 180, 190 Diesel, 200 petrol and the 220S, the large bodied one. This was the stunner and an all-time favorite. The next in line category was the Opel Rekord and Volkswagen from Germany. Two cars that really became popular in Pakistan. The Rekord continued to be produced till the mid-eighties, then it was discontinued. This was a large and roomy family vehicle. The VW as was commonly known, was the small two door everyman’s car. The peculiar thing about the VW Beetle, was it had the engine in the rear which would heat up in high temperatures in Pakistan. The Beetle was a classic and was discontinued somewhere in the eighties (around) but again started in two thousand or so. This car remained very popular the world over.

Italians are known for their car designs to this day. With the global sales of cars going up, they came out with the Fiat, which also became popular in our part of the world. The small baby-like model was fiat 500 and 600, a small two door tiny vehicle. The slightly bigger one was the Fiat 1100 D and 1100 R, in the mid-sixties, the 850 fastback coupe version, and later on the powerful 124 was introduced. This car would run on Hi-Octane in those days and the Karachiites found it to be a fast powerful car. The car was imported into Pakistan till around 1974 and later on, as it lost its popularity, was not imported in. The Fiat 125P, which was manufactured in Poland was brought in the year 1975, but was a disaster and did not gain popularity at all. I remember the 850 which my uncle bought in 1967, for around Rs. 16000/- or so. The prices of regular cars available in Pakistan was in this range.

Some cars from France were also imported in the sixties, into Pakistan. These enjoyed a more of a niche market and were sold in very small numbers. These were the Peugeot, Renault and the Citroen. The Renault 4. Which had the gear coming out of the dashboard, was imported by the government in 1975, but again, like the Fiat 125P, did not get popular at all.

In the car market of course, the British did not stay far behind. In the fifties and sixties, we saw a plethora of vehicles coming from UK. The popular amongst them were the Vauxhall, Hillman, Ford models like Prefect, Consul, Cortina, Anglia, Morris and Austin. The luxury brand, Rolls Royce and the Jaguar could be counted on fingertips in Pakistan due to their high price. I remember our Hillman, our Vauxhall Viva, and mypaternal grandfather’s Vauxhall Victor of early sixties very clearly. I also clearly recall the Triumph Herald, which was owned by an uncle of mine. It was a light yellow colored one and pretty slick, two-door version. The roly-poly Morris Minor was also very popular and I remember people in my greater family owning one. I also remember a small Austin, two door version, was owned by my grand uncle and he would sit in front with his chauffeur. The mini-Austin was also an all-time favorite, amongst car lovers, specially the Cooper version. An outlier in the Karachi car space was the Skoda, manufactured in the Czech Republic. It came and went.

In the mid-sixties there came another change worth noting. The government put up a few assembly plants for manufacturing cars. The first one that I recall, was for manufacturing the Dodge Dart in around 1964 or 1965. This model of Dodge Dart was manufactured in 1965 to 1967, (as I remember) and then production was stopped for some reason. This was again resumed in 1969 in which the new shape of the Dart was manufactured, which continued till 1971. This was a very popular model and was the VIP and luxury car in those days. Most of the senior government officials including Ministers, were given this car for use. The other car that was manufactured locally was the Vauxhall Victor 2000. Another luxurious and large size car of those days, mostly used by senior officials. The production was discontinued after 1973. I remember both these vehicles very well as my uncle who was a senior in the government service had both of them. The front seat of the Dodge was large and full, known as the bench seat, as was with most cars in those days, with a three speed column shift. I remember driving this car in our lane somewhere around 1973, when I was only 11 years old. My cousin Safdar, let me sit with him and drive partially in our quite lane in PECHS. This was really a thrilling moment of my life.

Around 1966 a major intervention that I would term as the game-changer, came to Pakistan. This was the entry of the Japanese cars in our market that actually changed the global car market, including Pakistan. The Toyota Corona, a 1500 CC car was introduced in Pakistan for the first time. The price was kept at around Rs. 17000/-. Initially people were vary of the new breed of cars produced by Japan, but once the trend picked up, there was no stopping. The Japanese cars were good on fuel and more reliable as compared to the other vehicles which were imported earlier. Toyota instantly became the leader of the Japanese revolution. The other models from other manufacturers were the Datsun (now Nissan) Bluebird and the Mazda 1500. The Mazda was designed Giorgetto Guigaro, an Italian designer working for Bertone. Oh, what a design, sleek and sporty. This immediately captured a niche market and became reasonably popular. This 1500 continued till around 1971 and alter got converted to 1600 after 1972. (Became the 616 and later 626).

The Japanese continued with capturing the Pakistan market with the Corona till around 1972 and also introduced the Toyota corolla 1200 CC was also targeted for the economy-loving segment. The Datsun also launched its 1200 version which was very efficient on fuel, and became the favorite Taxi car in Karachi. The Mazda also came out with the 1000 and 1200model in the same period. The government of Pakistan, somewhere in late 1973 or early 1974, imported vehicles from japan and issued permits to relevant people for purchasing the same. The cars which were imported included a full range of Toyota vehicles, comprising of Toyota Crown, 2000 CC, Mark II, 2000 CC, Corona 1500 CC and Corolla 1200 CC, all 1974 models. The Crown was targeted towards high end customers who wanted a luxurious vehicle, the Mark II for those who wanted power and a sporty look, the Corona for light comfort while the corolla for people who wanted a compact car with a good fuel economy. The Mazda included a 1300 CC one, while Datsun was the 120Y. Since the last few years Japanese vehicles had captured some market share and all the imported cars became very popular in no time. In fact, since open import of cars were not available, the cars were being sold at a premium in the secondary market. Till now air-conditioning was not a standard feature in the cars, and it continued like this for quite some years. A second lot of imports by the government was done in 1977 and additionally, cars like Mazda 808, Mazda 929, and Datsun 260C were also imported, while cars like Mark II, Crown and Corona were dropped.

We luckily obtained a permit in 1974 and opted to buy a Toyota Corolla in mustard yellow color. We took delivery of the car and put in some seat covers and also installed a cartridge player with good speakers for music. Than in 1977 again, we obtained a permit for a Mazda 808 and got it in Jackal Brown color. Till now Japanese cars were the name of the game. Since we were nostalgic about old American cars, we also bought a used 1971 model Ford Torino, column shift, with a V8 302 cubic-inch engine. This was in the year 1978. We continued with this car till 1984, and sold it off as it had become a white elephant. During this period all the American car lovers would collect at Uncle Nazeer Shaik’s house in PECHS. He was a connoisseur of American cars and had a garage at his house with a full repair facility for them. I clearly remember meeting the big car lovers there and exchanging notes. I have a clear picture in mind of all the Ford’s, Oldsmobile’s, Chevy’s, Plymouth’s, Dodge’s, Caddy’s, and others.

The next wave of change was brought about in around 1979 when the government allowed import of reconditioned cars by the private sector. A few year old cars in a variety of metalliccolors, with good quality fabric seats, air-conditioning, fancywheel caps or fancy mag-wheels, wide radial tires and other accessories, branded as deluxe and hi-deluxe were introduced. Even the variety of models and brands increase massively. The car market accordingly progressed with the private sector players importing or people booking and getting cars on the gift scheme or bringing it back if they had worked for a specific period abroad. The entry by Honda was also made in the Pakistan market by introducing the all Luxurious brand Accord in 1982 which immediately became popular in the upper segment. The Honda Civic was also introduced in 1984 which immediately started giving a tough time to the Corolla.

In 1982 the government introduced the Suzuki 800 FX, a small compact car, and also set up an assembly plant with Suzuki for manufacturing the cars locally. The roll out of the locally manufactured Fx was in 1984, and immediately this car became very popular with the economy loving, sub-compact segment. Completely Knocked Down Kits (CKD Kits) were imported and cars were assembled locally. Some basic parts used in the car were also started being manufactured locally so that reliance on the imported parts could be deleted over time. So the era of local assembled cars, along with imported ones started. So now the market had a choice of sub-compact cars, and additionally Toyota and Honda also put up their assembly plants in the early nineties. The hot-sellers were the Toyota Corolla and the Honda Civic and market was immediately captured by them. The demand was then met by the local assemblers by providing the market with reasonable good quality, luxurious vehicles, in which air-conditioning, power windows, automatic transmissionand other accessories became standard.

The mid-eighties also saw the evolution of the market towards 4 wheel drive SUV’s. The Launch of the 3 door and 5 door, Mitsubishi Pajero played an important role in bringing the Jeep revolution. This became a hit immediately and especially the political people, rich businessmen and industrialist and landowners opted for it immediately. This vehicle became a status symbol in those days. Toyota also stepped in by launching the 3 door and 5 door version of the Land Cruiser II series. The 3 door version was bought by the police department and also the army. . I was in Faisalabad in 1993 and I remember getting the Mitsubishi Pajero, 5 door, inter-coolerturbo from the bank as my official vehicle. Later I purchased the vehicle and used it for a total of 10 years plus.

The auto market of Pakistan accordingly moved ahead. The market was continuously fed by the local manufactures and some imports made by the people from abroad. Luxury vehicles like Mercedes, BMW, Audi, Range Rover, etc. started to be seen on the roads. The trend further increased as the government gave some import duty concessions for importing second hand vehicles. So now a lot Prado’s, Land Cruisers belonging to the 4 wheel drive SUV front, became very visible on the roads. Additionally the Mercedes’s and luxury German vehicles also became common with the affluent class. The trend continued for quite some years, until very recently, when the government placed some restrictions on their import and also increased some imported duties. This resulted in the luxury cars becoming very expensive and non-affordable, to a major segment of the market,which were earlier able to afford the same. However, some new plants set up by Korean manufacturers have also been set up and initially are focusing small SUV’s.

This is the history of the Pakistan car market as observed by me since the day I was born. Moving form big to small, fossil fuel to hybrid and electric, city to off-roaders and so on. Where do we go from here? I think we will move along with the global trends towards environment friendly vehicles. This form of transport is definitely there to stay, at least for the next few decades if not more.

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roadtooffgrid · 19 days ago

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Turning A 7.5 Ton Truck Into The Ultimate Off-Grid Tiny Home | DIY Truck Camper Conversion Turning A 7.5 Ton Truck Into The Ultimate Off-Grid Tiny Home | DIY Truck Camper Conversion #truckcamper #diycamper #offgridliving Can a 7.5-ton truck truly become the ultimate tiny house on wheels? In this episode, we take you behind the scenes of our DIY journey as we transform our beloved truck “Moose” into a cozy, fully off-grid tiny home. It hasn’t been easy, every step brings new challenges, but we’re determined to make this dream a reality. From chassis repairs to brand new “shoes” for Moose, we’re sharing every step of this truck camper conversion process with you. Whether you’re passionate about off-grid living, self-sufficient life, or just love watching tiny home builds, we hope our journey inspires your own. If you’re curious about sustainable living or planning your own RV conversion, hit that like button, subscribe, and join us on this adventure toward freedom and self-reliance. Let us know what you think about the build so far in the comments below! ⚡ Thanks to VTOMAN for sponsoring this episode 🙏 Check out the Jump 2200 and SAVE £630 in their Earth Day flash sale here: https://bit.ly/4cmlyAA 💰 Save EVEN MORE with our discount code - VTUKJP22Q1G (extra £20 off) - Expires May 31st 2025 #vtoman #jump2200 ⭐ Enter our RAFFLE for a chance to WIN the VTOMAN Jump 2200 (and support the channel 🙏) ⭐ https://ift.tt/THaOrg0 ⚙ Check out the full hydraulic legs build here! Part 1: https://youtu.be/svs_FsdAnFQ Part 2: https://youtu.be/gNVG30v2iHc 👫 ABOUT US We're Pete and Hayley, a husband and wife duo from the south of the UK, on our exciting journey towards self-sufficiency and off grid living. Our first project is to convert our old Mercedes 7.5-tonne truck, Moose, into a cosy live-in RV / tiny house. 🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. https://www.youtube.com/@RoadToOffGrid/?sub_confirmation=1 ✅ Important Links to Follow 🔗 Support Us Here! ✨ Patreon: https://ift.tt/l8NPm73 ☕ Buy us a coffee: https://ift.tt/TPDSKQV 💰 PayPal: https://ift.tt/wnEqzJP 💫 Amazon Wishlist: https://ift.tt/GMy1pqf 🔗 Stay Connected With Us Facebook: https://ift.tt/6SxG81n Instagram: https://ift.tt/li5YX3p TikTok: https://ift.tt/lLG5ckR 📩 For business enquiries: [email protected] ============================= 🎬Suggested videos for you: ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GyXm8_sjGqY ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQ5gNdbRD44 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FM_q1AVuCeg ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fF86_PKqrA0 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuNwc0QAqaI ================================= 🔎 Related Phrases: Turning A 7.5 Ton Truck Into The Ultimate Off-Grid Tiny Home, DIY Truck Camper Conversion, How To Convert A Truck Into A Tiny House, Diy Truck Camper Conversion Ideas, Off Grid Tiny Home Build, Living Off Grid In A Truck Camper, 7.5 Ton Truck Tiny Home Conversion, Best Diy Truck Camper Setup, Building A Tiny Home On Wheels, Full Time Off Grid Living Uk, Off Grid Rv Living Tips, Truck Camper Build From Scratch, Overlanding Truck Camper Life #truckcamper #diycamper #offgridliving #tinyhome #truckconversion #overlanding #camperbuild #rvsetup #selfsufficient #homesteading #vanlife #camperconversion #tinyhouseuk #offgridlife #sustainableliving via Road To Off Grid https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC58LHiyim_aS4MKM6AazMpA April 25, 2025 at 01:20AM

#offgrid #freedom #offgridliving #truckcamper #mechanic #horsebox #tinyhouse #selfsufficient #vanlife #Youtube

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getyourhomedecor · 1 year ago

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Spruce Up Your Space: The Hottest Rug Trends Now

Investing in a quality rug is a cost-effective method of enhancing your space, regardless of whether you own your home or are renting a tiny one. Rugs simply add beauty, colour, and texture to any space. Remember their impact—they can truly alter the atmosphere of your space!

In 2024, there are a multitude of rugs available in a wide range of styles and pricing points. Choosing where to start might be challenging. Would you prefer a Moroccan rug in the bohemian style, a traditional Persian carpet, a handcrafted jute rug, a big gray rug, or something bright and contemporary? Additionally, there are several materials and weaving techniques—such as tufted, knotted, or flat weave—that go into making rugs. It could be too much!

Considering the most recent rug trends might help you avoid investing in a style that will become outdated quickly, as purchasing a new rug is frequently a significant financial commitment. If you want to buy living room rugs, rugs for sale UK, or more, go for The Rug Shop UK.

Rug Trends to watch out for:

2024 is seeing an increase in the popularity of organic designs in modern interior design. The interior design will feature a lot of jute, bamboo, sisal, and other natural fibres to create a tranquil, easygoing atmosphere. Rugs, regardless of colour or design, will make schemes feel up-to-date and easy.

1. A Vibrant Palette:

Moving forward, don't feel confined to light, neutral pieces when it comes to rugs. Rugs take the lead in determining a room's colour scheme as new colour trends point to more vivid combinations that make the floor the focal point of your space.

During the last decade, rugs have undergone a major upheaval. The days of beige and grey tones being the only options for modern rugs are long gone. Both consumers and designers are experimenting a lot with lighter colours.

2. Natural fibers:

Natural fibre rugs are excellent for layering, have a timeless charm, and are eco-friendly. When arranged wall-to-wall and stacked with an ancient kilim or animal hide, these rugs look well with bright, modern, or monochrome carpets. They also create an eclectic look.

In general, earth tones with striking textures and carpets composed of organic materials like jute, wool, and sisal are still popular in textiles. Low pile rugs with tight weaves make an excellent platform for layering, but tone-on-tone patterns produced by texture or varying pile heights can also offer a simple, clean base with a little extra complexity. Since bedrooms are often used for barefoot activities, comfortable underfoot rugs are what you should opt for. For padding, you may place a bamboo or jute rug on top of a silk or wool rug.

3. Layering:

Speaking of layering, one of the major rug trends for the future is still layering. In open-concept layouts, such as living-dining rooms, where physical walls and partitions are impractical or create the illusion of smaller spaces, rugs can be utilized to define areas. In order to assist zone areas, designers are making sure to blend materials in addition to stacking various forms and colours. The way that each space is used can also be influenced by variations in texture and colour.

4. Shaggy Rugs:

Shag is back, that much is certain. These are the best options for living room rugs because they look great, feel rich, and are quite soft underfoot.

While longer shaggier pile lengths have been making a statement for a while now and show no signs of going away, tightly woven wool rugs will always be a neat and timeless option for any decor. This move towards texture fits in wonderfully with the design approach of the 1970s, which is currently quite fashionable, as well as the enduring appeal of Moroccan rug designs like the widely used Beni Ourain.

5. Unusual Shapes:

Think of interesting rug forms as the biggest thing to adopt in 2024. While organic modern style is characterized by soft, flowing lines that seem to stretch over the space, spanning open plan areas, standard rectangular forms can make a room feel blocky and walled off.

Consumers are searching for items with adaptable design aesthetics that they can use for extended periods of time without growing tired. In order to accommodate various mindsets, from traditional to contemporary, they favour transitional designs with rounded edges, soft materials, and soft curves over uneven shapes. Individuals are eager to purchase unique items or accent rugs to enhance the overall design of their homes.

In addition to flowing patterns, angular and eclectic designs are also becoming popular. These designs offer unique shapes that can be carried through the remainder of the room's design.

6. Antique Rugs with Distressed Effect:

Turkish and Persian rugs remain popular in the vintage rug market. Over time, these antique artifacts take on an appeal of their own and begin to resemble collector's treasures, replete with beauty and historical significance. Select these classic pieces for flooring ideas for your living room or bedroom that will last for decades.

Use antique rugs in muted, neutral colours to add some character and visual interest to your area without overpowering it, for those who still can't get enough pattern. A family home's unavoidable wear and tear can be disguised by the elaborate pattern, but the distressed antique aesthetic creates a clear and basic base.

What type of rug do you need?

It's a good idea to first determine what kind of rug you want: one that will protect your flooring, one that will last, or one that will just look good.

Shaggy rugs are fantastic underfoot in beds and are sometimes piled high, but they can be difficult to clean. Hallways look fantastic with patterned rugs; they come in a ton of different styles and are affordable, but be aware that pattern trends change rapidly. Cowhide or sheepskin rugs are a stylish accent to a dimly lit space; if you don't want to invest in the genuine thing, there are several imitation versions available.

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