#water softener for sale kitchener

[kjcleanwater]

Top Water Filtration Systems for Condos: A Buyer's Guide

Living in a condo can be convenient, yet poses its own set of issues. When it comes to water quality, many condo residents encounter problems such as hard water, a chlorine taste, or other contaminants from old pipes. So, finding an effective yet space-efficient water filtration system will be important for healthful and convenient living. This guide will outline a few of the best water filtration systems for condo living. It will focus on compact, efficient, and easy-to-install options.

1. Under-Sink Water Filters

Under-sink filters are perfect for condos because they get out of the way yet provide high-quality purified water right from your faucet. They are ideal if you do not have much counter space yet require a reliable filtration system.

Top Picks:

- Aquasana 3-Stage Max Flow: This is a 3-stage, under-sink system designed to remove up to 99% of contaminants that could include lead, chlorine, pesticides, and more. This has a compact footprint which means it can fit nicely with minimal installation and hassle with replacing filters.

 - iSpring RCC7: With its 5 stages in the reverse osmosis process, the iSpring RCC7 not only filters out all contaminants but also purifies and improves the taste. Being a bit larger is less significant because it accommodates nicely in most under-sink areas, providing superlative filtration with hardly any upkeep.

Pros: Space-saving, high filtration efficiency, accessible directly from the tap.

Cons: Takes some under-sink space and installation requires a little plumbing knowledge.

2. Countertop Water Filters

Countertop filters are great if you're renting or just prefer an option that doesn't require installation. They hook up directly to your faucet to provide filtered water on demand, without taking up too much counter space.

Best Options:

- AquaTru Countertop RO System: This reverse osmosis system removes virtually all contaminants without the use of plumbing. It's compact enough for condo kitchens, and it offers a four-stage filtration process.

- Big Berkey: Although it's a bit bigger than some other countertop filters, the Big Berkey can fit in a corner easily, and it's a highly portable, durable solution that effectively removes bacteria and heavy metals.

Pros: No installation, portable, great filtration capacity.

Cons: Takes up counter space, might be much smaller than under-the-counter units.

3. Faucet-Mounted Filters

If you are looking for an easy, cost-effective installation, faucet-mounted filters simply fit to your kitchen faucet. These are best for condominiums that do not offer a lot of counter space or that may require easily movable filtration. Most of the more advanced faucet-mounted filters include two positions, one that bypasses the filter and returns full tap flow.

Recommended

Among which is this

- The PUR Advanced Faucet Filtration System. This type is budget friendly, and easy to attach to places such as an oven and gets to remove Lead and many contaminants over 72 of the different types.

Lower filtration capacity, may decrease water flow, not compatible with all faucets.

4. Reverse Osmosis Systems

Reverse osmosis systems are one of the best options for condo owners who prioritize water purity highly. They filter nearly every impurity, from heavy metals to bacteria to chemicals, providing excellent-quality water. Some RO systems take up more space, but there are compact designs for RO systems in today's market that fit small spaces as well.

Best Option:

- Waterdrop Compact RO System: This compact system is tankless and can be installed under the sink. It's ideal for condos. Quiet, efficient, and up to 99% contaminant removal.

- Express Water RO5DX: The Express Water RO5DX is a compact RO system with a 5-stage filtration process. It fits under most kitchen sinks and gives you high-quality purified water.

Pros

High filtration efficiency and works well for the elimination of a wide range of impurities and long-lasting filters

Cons

More expensive when getting it initially, space below the sink and an installed one needs a professional.

5. Pitcher Water Filters

Condo owners who want the ultimate convenience and mobility option are perfect for water filter pitchers. No installation is necessary. They can be put inside the fridge, allowing cool and filtered water at all times.

- Brita Everyday Pitcher: Popular and affordable. Removes chlorine and other impurities that give water its unpleasant taste. Lightweight and small enough to fit in smaller spaces.

- ZeroWater Pitcher: ZeroWater uses a 5-stage filtration process that removes even more dissolved solids than many pitcher filters. This is one of the best options for condo owners looking for a portable yet highly filtered unit.

Pros: Portable, no installation, and relatively inexpensive.

Cons: Limited capacity, so will often need to be refilled and filters changed.

6. Whole House Water Filters for Condos

Less common for condos because they usually have a plumbing issue. However, if it's okayed by your condo complex, then a whole-house water filter system would be the most effective in filtering all faucets and showerheads as well as washing machines.

Top Picks:

- Aquasana Rhino Whole House System: Removes chlorine and other chemical additives; it is well-suited for condos because plumbing is accessible. Relatively small for a whole-house unit, it is useful in water quality improvement across the house through all the taps.

- Express Water Whole House Filter: This system minimizes sediment, chlorine, and many other impurities with a compact design; it will work for a condo setting if the plumbing has been readied for that use.

They work for each source of water at your apartment to ensure that every traceable impurity dissolved post filtration translates to an increase in water quality generally. To make water flow towards the point of purification they demand an installation through a pipeline that could well be an unaffordable process.

Conclusion: Ensure Clean, Healthy Water with a Reliable Water Filtration System

Condo living doesn't have to mean sacrificing water quality. From compact under-sink systems to portable pitchers, there is a water filtration solution to fit any space or budget. Consider your water quality needs, available space, and budget to choose the best system for your condo. From advanced RO systems to simple faucet filters, cleaner, better-tasting water is just a step away.

[pookiebearmick]

Laughing/smiling into kisses; pulling away and looking at each other with softened smiles !

this one is so cute!!! i'm doing a little bday moment for ian <3

The last thing Ian expected to wake up to on his birthday was an empty bed. He rolled over to find that his husband was gone, which was definitely out of the ordinary because Ian always had to coax Mickey out of bed after their multiple alarms let them know it was time to get up and ready for work.

Ian checked the time, 7:52AM, earlier than their usual 8AM alarm. This made it even stranger that Mickey wasn't in bed with him. He listened closely to see if he could hear anything to signal that Mickey was moving around somewhere in their small apartment. Strangely, he felt like he could hear a pin drop.

"Mick?" he called out to what seemed to be an empty apartment.

No reply. He rolled back to his other side and reached out for his phone, pulling up his messages to shoot Mickey a quick "where tf r u" text. It was Thursday, after all. They needed to be ready to leave their apartment by 9:30 to get to the growhouse for their first pickup of the day, and Ian was really hoping to have some lazy birthday sex before hopping in the shower.

He gave himself a couple more minutes in bed, scrolling on Instagram and responding to some "Happy Birthday Ian!!" text messages from his siblings, before he decided that it was time for him to get up and start some coffee. Fiona had sent him a french press and some coffee grounds from her favorite local shop in Florida for his birthday, and Ian was enjoying his fancy new kitchen gadget.

Mickey still hadn't responded to his text, so Ian started calling him as he measured out the grounds. He listened to the line ring two or three times before hearing jingling of keys and the unlocking of their apartment door.

"Where'd you go off to before 8 in the morning?" Ian asked, glancing over at the door as it opened before ending his phone call and grabbing the kettle to fill up with water.

"Well," Mickey started, shuffling out of his boots and moving into the kitchen, "I was hoping to surprise you with some breakfast from that café you're always talking about, but it seems the cat's outta the bag on that one."

Ian chuckled softly, setting the kettle on the burner and cranking it to high heat. "I told you you didn't have to do anything for my birthday, Mick. Getting together with the family for dinner and cake feels like a celebration enough for me."

He turned to face his husband, who was standing next to their small table with a soft smile and eyebrows raised. Mickey had just set down two styrofoam boxes of take out on the table, but still had a small bouquet of blue flowers in his hand.

"Wanted to," he said quickly to Ian, stepping forward and closing the gap between them.

Ian wrapped his arms around Mickey's waist and leaned down to kiss him, pulling Mickey in closer as he slotted their lips together.

He pulled back and looked at the flowers in Mickey's hand. "Sap," he teased with a small giggle, before leaning in and kissing Mickey again.

"Yeah, yeah," Mickey grumbled. "Your birthday's so close to Mother's Day that all the shops had flowers on sale. Couldn't fuckin' get out of there without someone putting flowers in my face." Despite the grumbling, Mickey was smiling softly up at Ian.

Ian absolutely loved that his husband was sweet and loving with him like this, getting up early to get him flowers and a special breakfast for his birthday. "Sure, Mick," he said sweetly, smiling back at Mickey. He leaned down and kissed Mickey once more through a big smile.

"Happy Birthday, lover," Mickey spoke softly, smiling sweetly back at Ian and meeting his gaze.

[martyrmurdock]

𝐈𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐋𝐎𝐖 𝐋𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓, 𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄 𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐁𝐑𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐄𝐒𝐓

♡ note: frankie really is the king of my heart ♡

♡ pairing: frank castle x gn reader

♡ word count: .8k

♡ tags: fluff, mentions of blood and injuries (not graphic), sweetheart used a pet name for reader

it is well past two in the morning by the time frank enters the apartment. within the walls that have housed him for the past few months, it is dark as night save for the dim light flickering every now and then in the kitchen. he does not bother with taking off his combat boots, dirty with a mix of grime and blood, but he does soften his steps, his footfalls nearly silent as he makes his way to the kitchen, drawn in like a moth to an open flame.

he stops right at the entrance of the kitchen, his broad frame taking up the entirety of the narrow space separating the kitchen from the rest of the room. you're the sole occupant of the kitchen, and frank quietly observes you. he'll make himself known or you'll notice him, but before then, he takes the sight of you in.

you have a soft throw blanket, which you bought on sale from the department store, wrapped around your shoulders. beneath the blanket, you're wearing your pajamas, which consists of one of frank's t-shirts and a pair of sweatpants that are a good few years old by now. you're slightly hunched over the counter. there is a white mug printed with some design that you found cute when you first saw it that sits between your hands as you stir the liquid, deep brown in color, within it using a small metal spoon.

as if you can feel frank's eyes on you, you look up at that exact moment and meet his gaze. there is no indication of any surprise or shock on your face when your eyes meet frank's. your eyes merely crinkle at the edges as your lips stretch into a smile, softened by the sleepiness you must be feeling.

you lift the mug you're holding, and frank can see the flowery pattern that decorates the space between your fingers. "you want some hot cocoa, frankie?"

the corners of his lips twitch.

"i'd love some," frank says, even though he's not the fondest of hot chocolate. he is not lying, however. he thinks he would agree to anything you asked of him if it made you happy.

he watches as you open up one of the cabinets and grab a mug for him, the matching one to the one on the counter. you glance back at him and make a shooing motion.

"go get yourself cleaned up while i make you a mug."

frank knows better than to argue with you and nods. but before he leaves for the bathroom, he enters the kitchen and slowly walks until he is right beside you. you angle your body to face him, looking at him with an unspoken question written across your face. frank answers by pressing his forehead to yours. your eyes flutter shut, and a comfortable silence falls over you like a gentle wave.

frank breaks it with a "thank you, sweetheart." his lips brush against your temple before he leaves the kitchen to go get himself cleaned up. he may not be seriously injured, but he is still covered in filth.

he quickly washes up in the shower, scrubbing away all the grime and dried blood that's stuck to his skin. it swirls down the drain before disappearing from frank's view. once he's satisfied with his state of cleanliness, frank turns the water off. while mist from the heat of his shower still clings to every surface in the bathroom, frank diligently dresses his wounds before dressing himself.

a fresh mug of hot chocolate already sits on the counter, still steaming and waiting for frank, by the time he's finished cleaning himself up. your mug, empty now, is placed in the sink, to be washed at a later time.

once you notice frank, you carefully pick up the mug, mindful of how hot the ceramic is, and hold it out for him to take. his fingers overlap with yours, and he lets his touch linger, only briefly, before he eventually takes the mug from you.

"thank you, sweetheart," frank says again. he tilts the mug back and takes a long, slow sip of the hot chocolate, letting the warm and rich flavor lie on his tongue. “tastes great,” he says, his words truthful and honest. frank may not love hot chocolate, but he sure as hell loves the way you make it. you make a mean hot chocolate.

“i’m glad you like it,” you say, giving frank a soft, sloping smile. you pull your slipping blanket tighter around your shoulders before waddling closer to frank. you open up your arms, inviting frank into your blanket. he silently accepts the invitation, wrapping an arm around you and gently pulling you close to him. you press your cheek against frank’s chest and loudly sigh in contentment. “things taste better when they’re made with love, don’t they?” you muse.

frank takes another sip of hot chocolate, warmth seeping into every fiber of his body and settling deep into his bones. the corner of his lips quirks up in a small lopsided smile, one that’s unbearably fond and soft. one that is reserved only for you.

“yeah,” he says, “yeah, they do.”

[akwolfgrl]

LFT PART 37

Sanji made his last round inside his galley, Mr. Noodles sat perched on a bar stool watching him. The roses that Zoro got him were still sitting in the jar where he left them. He needed to figure out what he wanted to do with them. Sanji slid some butter into his apron pocket to soften.

Sanji finished unloading everything he had bought at the market this morning. There were still a few cartes of things waiting for him to deconstruct. Sanji had scored a crate of fresh unwashed eggs. He would water glass them later tonight. He left out the stuff he needed to make a batch of kimchi and a new marinade for Luffy's jerky. The meat was in the freezer to firm up for easier slicing. He also left out the prime rib he got on sale for dinner tonight. He had the perfect seasoning for them.

Sanji cut the core of napa cabbages out, placing them into the bucket he was using for a compost pile, they used to have one on the Baratie they would give it to a local farmer who they worked with to get fresh produce. There were things that even he could not salvage and use, but the compost was a good compromise since it fertilized and grew more food. He split the leafy vegetable apart with his hands. It was hard to get used to such a quiet kitchen. He was used to the hustle and bustle of the Baratie. The chefs arguing, the waiters yelling out food orders. Everything about the kitchen was loud and controlled chaos. Well, Sanji did sort of miss having someone he could talk to.

“OK so I know you're a cat, and you don't understand what I'm saying, but I don't care. Right now, I'm making kimchi. It's spicy, sour, and so good. A chef who used to work at the Baratie before settling ashore and marrying a sweet woman showed me how to make it,” Sanji began to chop the pieces of cabbage up. “I'm doing the shortcut method. Usually, you don't chop it up, but I like it better this way,” Sanji put all the cabbage into the large bowl. “Then we just wash and salt the cabbage until it wilts and the water from the inside of the cabbage is drawn out by the salt,” Sanji would leave it overnight with something heavy on top.

Mr. Noodles had at some point hopped from his stool to wind his way around Sanji's legs purring. He was ecstatic to have something small and cute to care for. Clementine may have been Zeff’s cat but she did like him and barely tolerated the other chefs. It had been his job to brush her long silky golden fur. She had been a very pretty kitty, with one gold eye and one blue. Mr. Noodles was of course very handsome with his soft slick black fur.

“Zeff my old man, although I'd never call him that to his face, had a ship cat, her name was Clementine,” Sanji took out the bowl he used previously for the marinade. Mixing soy sauce, worcestershire, orange juice, and zest , he whisked in honey, brown sugar, grated ginger, and chopped garlic. He threw some habaneros into his mortar and grinded them down into a nice paste before adding them as well. “I remember the look on Zeff’s face after we got off the Rock. Clementine had gotten off their pirate ship shortly before they attacked the Orbit. It's said that cats can sense doom. Anyway, we stayed on an island while we recovered, and one day, she walked right up to Zeff as if she had only been out for a stroll. She died shortly before Luffy came crashing in. Zeff had been practically testy lately, so that didn't help him at all,” Sanji covered the marinade and placed it into the fridge.

“I think after I'm done with my prep, I'll head back out for some personal shopping and check out the fish market. Maybe I'll be nice to our sentient plant life and pick up a sword cleaning kit. He doesn't have much money and would be more focused on buying swords. Why he needs three? I'm not sure, but that's his thing, I suppose,” Sanji took a paper towel to dry the prime ribs, or else it would reject the butter. He stabbed holes into the top of the meat. While he did know how to trim meat, it had come pre-trimmed and on sale to good of a deal to pass up. “I haven't seen him use it at all while we've been on this ship and there's no way that his sword hasn't been well kept in the past,” He took the softened butter out of his pocket and upwarped it, placing it into a small bowl. “Maybe I'll grab some ink for Nami-swan! I can't get Marimo and not my sweet Nami,” Sanji tossed in chopped rosemary and thyme, salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, and a bit of worcestershire then he mixed it. “I should pick another notebook while I'm out, I might as well grab something for Luffy and Usopp while I'm at it. Just so I don't have to hear them whining.”

Sanji stabbed holes into the fatty part of the meat and used butter to lube up the sliced garlic and rosemary, slipping them into the holes. He coated the prime ribs in the rest of the butter before placing them in the fridge. After a quick clean-up, Sanji was ready to head out. With a goodbye scratch to Mr. Noodles Sanji left the Going Merry

[re-bec-ca-ann]

New Year's Eve, 1986

Summary: Steve cooks dinner for The Party on New Year's Eve while wearing his mother's old "Kiss The Cook" apron.

Read on AO3.

Artwork by the talented @yendts​!

The apron isn’t even his. His dad had given it to Steve’s mom when he was in grade school as a joke. Cooking was a rare affair in the Harrington household, but when the nanny was out sick or unavailable due to prior commitments, Mrs. Harrington would muster the will to prepare a bowl of cereal or a plate of scrambled eggs and toast for her son before he ran out the door to catch the bus. Regardless of the dish's simplicity, she was adamant about wearing an apron to avoid staining her fancy silk shirts or lace-adorned blouses. Up until a certain point, before Steve was deemed old enough to use a stove or face a full day of school on a single granola bar, she would entertain his insistence at planting a boyish peck on the apple of her cheek when she hooked the apron on her neck and secured the strings around her fine waist. As Steve grew in age, height, and ability, those light and heartwarming moments between mother and son became less and less frequent. By high school, he was relying on chalky protein bars in the morning, school lunches, and cold pizza or TV dinners that required a microwave and a quick stir. 

Things are different now. Hawkins is different. Steve is different. 

The town, while no longer the gateway to hell, borders on desolation. Those wealthy enough to vacate put their houses on the market or took the hit and fled within days and even hours of the supposed earthquake—including Steve’s parents. He came home one day following a shift at Family Video to find a FOR SALE sign pitched in the front yard without a word from his parents. Robin helped him box his belongings and Eddie offered the wide belly of his van to transport his belongings to a two-bedroom apartment in his price range. 

So while many have retreated to supposed greener pastures, The Party remains. Steve’s not certain Hawkins will be his home forever, but for now, it’s where he needs and wants to be. The determination to see Dustin, Max, Lucas, and even Mike fucking Wheeler survive high school and live out their weird, awkward, and nerdy teenage years with some semblance of peace keeps him steady and focused. And the distraction of caring keeps the pain that nips at his heels from rising any higher. 

That’s why tonight, on New Year’s Eve, he isn’t getting blasted at a bar or cozying up with some stranger at a house party. Instead, he’s in his cramped apartment kitchen managing a nearly full stove and a blistering oven while “Manic Monday” by The Bangles plays on the radio. Sweat is beading at his temples along his hairline from the forced warmth the appliances are emitting. He uses the tea towel draped across his broad shoulder to dab the moisture up before snatching the wooden spoon that’s laying across the bubbling water to stir the softening pasta. He’s not sure if everyone even likes chicken alfredo or what teen will stomach a side of roasted broccoli, but he knows Max is hardpressed for a homecooked meal, Robin likes to consider herself cultured and will force down anything, and there’s nothing a quick swat to the side of Dustin’s big head can’t cure. As for Eddie, he seems content to scarf down whatever he happens upon—dry cereal, lukewarm beer, a gourmet meal, a can of cold beans. The guy eats like he’s not sure when the opportunity will present itself again—and doesn’t that make Steve’s insides twist and his heart clench. 

They arrive in a flurry. Cold air from the hallway rushes into the kitchen every time the door is shoved open without a knock. At this point, they all have keys, Steve both desperate to avoid silence and eager to give them all a getaway when needed. Sure, he regrets the decision on the occasion that Dustin uses it to host a game of Dungeons and Dragons without warning, but he doesn’t mind when those impromptu game nights lead to Eddie playing a new record for Steve in the living room after the campaign comes to a close. In those instances, it’s common for Steve and Eddie to doze off on the blue plaid couch given to him by Robin’s parents until one of them jerks awake from a nightmare or a neighbor slamming a door shut. More often than not, Steve is the one to wake, and after he chugs a glass of water in hopes of settling his nerves, he grabs the sherpa blanket from the hall closet and drapes it across Eddie’s prone form.

He doesn’t know who will stay tonight, but he used what was left of his last paycheck to buy a few more blankets and pillows just in case he has a full house of drowsy kids and friends. 

They all greet Steve in their own unique and annoying ways. 

“Is that broccoli I smell? Steve, my mom feeds me enough vegetables, dude.” Dustin complains with a whiny tone. 

Lucas tells him about what basketball skill he’s on the verge of mastering; Erica rolls her eyes with so much piss and vinegar that it has him questioning how she hasn’t lost an eyeball yet. 

Max grunts out a “hey” as she uses a cane to maneuver the small space. 

The carpool crowd of the Wheeler siblings, Byers siblings, El, and Argyle patter in with such a subdued and quiet energy that he barely notices until Jonathan’s pat on the back causes him to crane his neck around. 

Before he can turn back to the simmering alfredo sauce, Robin is lifting herself onto the only space of open, clean countertop next to him. She gives his shoulder a flick, sticks a finger in the sauce, offers a nod of approval, and starts yammering about her day with more details than his brain can compute. Regardless, he does his best to keep up and nods when he loses track of the narrative. 

Eddie is the last to arrive, and Steve certainly notices enough to turn around and away from the steaming stove. The metalhead shoots through the door like a loose canon, bouncing on the balls of his feet as he kicks off his weathered sneakers. They land half on the mat and half on the tiled floor as he announces his presence with an abundance of zest and enthusiasm. Nancy catches sight and bends down to shift them over. Steve laughs and turns back to the sink where he needs to drain the industrial-size amount of fettuccine. 

“Hold up,” Robin quips, voice a whisper but tone alarmed. Against his better judgment, Steve freezes when he realizes that what he’s wearing is the catalyst for her surprise. When he has anyone over for dinner, he typically finishes cooking prior to them entering the apartment. 

Shit, he thinks, glancing down at the apron with a grimace. 

Everyone erupts into either howls of laughter or fake gags. He flicks Dustin’s hat off of his head and scowls at Mike. His middle finger is raising on its own accord, but El shifts into his line of vision and pushes onto her toes to press a quick kiss to his cheek. His hand drops and he smiles at the genuine sweetness he discovers on El’s face. 

“Thank you for cooking for us, Steve,” she says without preamble. 

“Yeah, my perfect-haired dude,” comes Argyle’s deep, drawn-out voice as he steps forward and into Steve’s space. “Many thanks for opening your humble abode up to us.” The kiss lacks the gentleness of El’s, but it’s full of unhindered appreciation. The shock of it brings a warmth to the apples of Steve’s cheeks. 

No one else seems to be getting in line so Steve coughs to clear his head and the air. “Right, uh,” he mumbles out. “Food should be done shortly, so grab a drink and sit the hell down—and try not to break anything,” he finishes with a pointed look at Mike and Dustin.

Before he can spin on his heels and hide his face from view, Eddie’s doe eyes latch on to his. His usual pale skin has a dusting of color that mirrors the blush wine Nancy is uncorking and he’s tugging at the cuffs of his jacket sleeves. The thing that really makes Steve’s stomach swoop, however, is the intensity that’s swirling in the metalhead’s brown irises. They both swallow and drop one another’s gazes. 

Out of the corner of his eye, he can see that Robin’s mouth is slightly ajar. “Jeez, Steve,” she grits out, this time actually in a whisper just for their ears. “Here I am still working on getting my first kiss from a girl, and you’ve got a freakin’ queue going. Step right up! Take your pick! Come one, come all! The boy wonder is awaiting with his pouty lips and brooding stare.”

Steve chuckles and shakes his head at her antics but his face turns a little sour after a moment. “There’s only one person I’m hoping will be in that line at midnight, Robs.” 

“I know, I know,” she acknowledges. “Don’t play dumb though. Did you see his face? I’m surprised he didn’t lunge like a rabid dog or melt into the floor and become a permanent fixture," she comments. “By the way, very tactile selection of cooking attire.”

Steve scoffs in disbelief. “I didn’t wear this on purpose!”

“Sure, you didn’t,” she quips with an exasperated eye roll. “I believe you.”

“Screw you, Robs!”

Before sitting down at the table, Steve makes sure to shuck off the apron and hang it on the handle of the oven. 

Dinner involves a cacophony of slurping, happy hums of contentment, and the boys discussing what movies they want to see next year and complaining about their fast-approaching return to the halls of Hawkins High with irritated digs from Max and Erica sprinkled in. Throughout most of it, Steve finds himself observing. Robin talks between bites of food to a smirking Nancy. Jonathan and Argyle are looking longingly at the food and savoring each bite—a telling glaze clouding their respective eyes. Eddie seems to be doing the same as Steve. Taking it all in. He knows the metalhead has his bandmates, but this mismatched, makeshift gang takes the cake. Steve doesn’t try to even understand it. He doesn’t know why but it works. They work. 

From across the table, their eyes cross paths once again and pause. It’s always hard to peel his gaze away from Eddie—especially as of late. They’ve grown closer. Spending more and more time in each other’s atmospheres. Sometimes with no real reason aside from having nowhere else to go or not wanting to be anywhere else. Steve’s had friends, mates he’d throw parties with, toss a football around with, grab a burger and fries with. But this is something all its own. 

Robin is his best friend. Someone he spills his guts to on the daily. Eddie is on the cusp of that, but there’s another layer there that Steve is working through at a rate and ease he never expected. He hates Eddie’s taste in music. He hates the volume at which he listens to it. He hates how much his energy never seems to wane. But he also likes Eddie. A lot.

When the realization made itself known, it slammed into his chest and clobbered him upside the head. Another theoretical concussion to really scramble his brain and tear through every belief he had about himself. Robin was there to help him through it. Determined to convince Steve that the same instant acceptance he offered her was what he deserved too. The uncertainty still appears from time to time, but he’s proud of himself. He feels as though the hard edges crafted by his parents and his former coaches and the Country Club of Hawkins have been all but chipped away to reveal someone he recognizes and wants to get to know better. And that someone appreciates and longs for the companionship of a woman or a guy—or at least Eddie Munson.

He knows he’s about to trip face-first over the line between what’s an OK amount of time to hold someone’s stare, but Eddie has resorted to sticking his tongue out in a messy attempt to catch a noodle that’s dangling from his fork. Steve decides it's gross and endearing. He keeps his responding smile small and feels child-like joy blossom in his chest. It begs him to snatch a piece of broccoli from his plate and throw it at the other man. Against his well-trained judgment, he does just that. The floret gets caught in a frizzy curl and hangs mid-air. The look of feigned offense that blooms on the metalhead’s face ignites a chocked-out laugh in Steve’s throat. It’s loud enough to catch the attention of everyone at the table. Moments later, broccoli is catapulting in all directions. It lands on plates, in the sink, down shirts, and on the floor. Steve puts a stop to the chaos when he spots Mike grabbing for a noodle coated in alfredo sauce.

During clean-up efforts, Eddie saddles up behind a kneeling Steve to pluck a piece of food from his chestnut mane and popping it in his mouth. “I’ll give it to you, Harrington,” he comments with a playful husk to his voice, “you make food that’s good enough to eat and wear.” 

“Gross, Eddie!” hollers Mike at the interaction. “You probably just consumed at least half of a can of hairspray!”

Eddie shrugs and says, “I’ve eaten worse,” and saunters into the living room. 

They’ve been doing this for a few months now. Engaging in exchanges that border on innocent and flirtatious. Eddie gives just as good as Steve, if not better if the former jock tallies the number of times he’s left sputtering or with a warmth seeping across the surface of his skin. Steve knows Eddie is gay. Eddie is smart about not letting that flag fly in the “real” world—he has to be in Hawkins—but in the safe confines of The Party or even at The Hideout, Eddie allows it to wave with ease. 

At first, Steve suspected that the metalhead was just a flirt or found joy in making other people squirm. But Robin was quick to correct his thinking. Noting how there was a clear difference. While Argyle loved up on each and every person willing to receive his affections, Eddie reserved his heated lines, looks, and touches for Steve and Steve only. After a while, the former jock couldn’t deny Robin’s observations. And yet, there’s still a doubtful piece of him that wonders if it’s all a joke. A means to an easy laugh at the expense of Steve’s forgotten macho persona. And the thing is, Steve wouldn’t blame Eddie. He gets that he was an entitled, hotshot asshole. But the hurt and disappointment that bubble beneath the surface at the possibility are so very real. 

For the remainder of the night, the group plays board games in the living room, using the wobbly coffee table to roll dice and move pawns. There isn’t enough space for everyone to gather around it, so they team up and take turns. Eventually, Steve exits to the kitchen with Robin and Nancy. They sit at the table, Nancy telling Robin about what classes she’s taking next term at Emerson. Steve tries to listen, but he notices the pile of dirty plates in the sink and the urge to not wake up to them in the morning is enough to pull him away from the conversation. He lets the water heat up and reaches for the apron. He’s taking a chance at being the butt of another joke, but he’s ruined one too many shirts to questionable stains at this point for his minimum wage job to handle. He’s halfway through the stack of dishes when the music sounding from the radio comes to a halt and he hears a cassette being clicked into the tape player. The chords, the bass, the beat—everything is heavy from the start. Steve guesses it’s Metallica, but he knows it’s Eddie at the helm. 

He wants to yell at him to turn it down, fearful of his ancient neighbors, but Dustin’s joyous hoot at the song choice drags the demand back down his throat. It’s New Year’s Eve, he thinks—they can suffer for one night. 

He imagines the pair thrashing around the space, throwing their bodies onto the couch. As they get older, Steve feels more and more like a parent to Dustin. Not a babysitter. They joke about him being the “mom” of the group and to be honest, Steve has stopped fighting the label. He kinda is. He’s not sure where that leaves Eddie. Ever wild and whimsical. He supposes he’s the fun guardian. Who keeps watch but not in a meddling manner or worrying way. They’re a good team when he thinks about it. 

He must get so lost in his thoughts that he doesn’t realize someone is next to him drying the clean but dripping plates until an elbow is poking into his side. 

Eddie grins at him.

“Can’t let you have all the fun.”

Steve rolls his eyes and lets a smirk tug at his lips. “Never.”

They finish the dishes in somewhat silence, Eddie bobbing his head to whatever hellish tune comes on next and flicking drops of water at Steve. The former jock is seconds away from spraying the water flow into his face when Mike’s voice screeches, “Ten minutes and counting! Get in here or you’re gonna miss it, losers.”

El shushes him, and Robin and Nancy grab their glasses of either wine or champagne from the table and head to where the group is quieting down to listen to the news broadcast live from Times Square in New York City. Steve from three years ago might have convinced himself that he liked the noise and the crowds and the flashy outfits and expensive liquor, but now, between his abused skull and his cracked-open heart, he’s confident in his whereabouts. 

While Eddie tosses the plates with a carelessness that threatens to make Steve’s eye twitch into the cupboard, Steve dries off his hands and moves to remove the apron. The metalhead reaches out to stop him halfway through, the back undone, but the apron still hanging loosely from his neck. Steve looks down. The hand sprawled out on the center of his chest is adorned with chipped black nail polish and clunky sterling silver rings. The one on his middle finger is of a bat that Dustin and Steve chipped in to get him for a graduation present.

Steve pulls his gaze up to search Eddie’s face for an explanation. The same heat he witnessed in the other’s expression earlier in the evening is back. 

“I never got a chance,” Eddie says softly between them. 

A chance? A chance to what? To kiss the him? 

Steve worries that his own silence is the reason for the hesitation that’s mixing with the heat in Eddie’s eyes now. But what if he’s reading it wrong? The possibility tightens his throat with building pressure. Still, seeing the other man uncertain and unsure reminds him too much of the terrified version he first tangled with in the boat house—so much so that he pushes past it and takes a leap. 

“You don’t need the apron’s permission.”

Eddie blinks, the fearful fog lifting from his eyes. “No?”

Steve’s bravery bounds. “I want you to kiss me, Munson.”

Eddie nods as if to confirm he’s gathering and comprehending what’s being communicated. The metalhead’s hand is still on his chest, and Steve feels the need to ground himself, so he grips the edge of the counter with his left hand and wraps the fingers of his right around the other man’s wrist. Eddie bunches the material of the apron at the touch. 

“Midnight is,” Eddie breathes out, glancing at the clock on the wall, “eight minutes away. We could wait.”

Steve shakes his head, somewhat disbelieving at his own transparency when he replies, “Don’t want to.” 

Their lips meet like a wave crashing along the unsuspecting shore. They move with and against one another, pushing and pulling, trying to claim and be claimed. The heat originally reserved for their gazes has transferred to their mouths and tongues and teeth and hands. Steve releases his hold on the sink and the metalhead's wrist to instead grip Eddie’s hips. Eddie slides his palms and fingers to hook around Steve’s neck and tug at the loop of the apron. 

Without much thought, Steve turns and lifts the metalhead up onto the wet counter. Eddie gasps and scowls before diving back in to reconnect their lips. Steve gets a nip to his bottom lip that he suspects is payback. Payback he’s willing and grateful to endure.

By the time they truly separate and break for intakes of air that are longer than two or three seconds, Dustin announces the start of the countdown. 

“Eddie! Steve! Get in here!”

Eddie hops down from his perch and grabs Steve’s hand and tugs him to follow.

The kiss that stems from the clock striking twelve is gentle in comparison to their first. It happens on the outskirts of the living room, where the kitchen tile transitions starkly into the plush carpet. Those who aren’t cheering, shaking noise makers, or exchanging platonic embraces or romantic pecks, take note of the two men with squeals of surprise and yips of amusement.

When they pull away from each other, they’re both red in the face and laughing. 

“Happy New Year’s, Ed.” 

“Happy New Year’s, big boy,” the metalhead replies, grin broad as ever. “Guess ‘86 really was my year.”

It’s Max who gets the last word in though, gritting out a disgruntled “gross.”

[unforgottenrobot]

Broadchurch: The Next Chapter

Chapter 9 - The House

The next morning, the soft clink of pans and the smell of eggs cooking filled the kitchen as Alec stood by the stove, focused on preparing breakfast. Anna sat at the table, the morning paper spread out in front of her, a cup of tea in hand. It was a peaceful Sunday routine they’d settled into, and she loved these quiet moments with Alec, even when they weren’t talking.

As she flipped through the pages, her eyes landed on the real estate section. Houses for sale dotted the page, with glossy photos of quaint cottages and seaside homes. It sparked a thought that had been lingering in her mind for a while and after their conversation at the market yesterday, it felt like the right time to ask.

She glanced up at Alec, who was focused on getting the eggs just right. “Hey,” she said casually, folding the paper slightly. “You know how we had that talk yesterday,” she paused for a moment to make sure Alec was listening.

“Hmm,” He said, poking at the eggs with the spatula.

“Well… there’s some really nice houses in here for sale.” She finished, glancing up to get a sense of his reaction.

Alec paused for a moment, the spatula in his hand hovering over the frying pan. “Houses? For sale?” he repeated, glancing over at her.

Alec’s brow furrowed slightly, and he turned back to the stove, flipping the eggs onto a plate. “I like the idea,” he said, his voice thoughtful. “But I’d need some time to think about it. Buying a house is... a big step.”

Anna nodded, understanding. She knew Alec wasn’t someone who rushed into decisions, especially ones as significant as this. “Of course,” she replied. “I didn’t mean we had to decide today. Just thought it might be something to start considering.”

Alec brought the plates of eggs and toast over to the table, setting one down in front of her before taking a seat. “You’ve been thinking about it a lot, then?” he asked, raising an eyebrow as he buttered his toast.

Anna shrugged, taking a bite of her food. “Maybe a little,” she admitted with a grin. “But I know it’s a big commitment, so no pressure.”

As Alec focused on his breakfast, Anna’s eyes drifted back to the paper. Her gaze settled on a listing - a charming seaside house with freshly painted white walls, a conservatory and garden both overlooking the beach. It was nestled in a quiet area near the cliffs, close enough that they could still walk into town. She leaned in, studying the pictures closely.

“I think I might have found something,” she said, her excitement bubbling up as she slid the paper across the table to Alec.

He looked down at the page, taking in the images of the house. “That’s... nice,” he said slowly, his interest clearly piqued. “It’s by the water.”

Anna nodded eagerly. “Yeah, and it’s not too far from town, we could still walk everywhere. It’s got enough space for all of us, and look at that view.”

Alec’s eyes lingered on the photo, his mind already spinning with the possibilities. It was a beautiful house, and the idea of having a home with Anna - something that was truly theirs - did appeal to him. But he also knew he needed time to wrap his head around it.

“It’s definitely something to think about,” he said finally, glancing up at her with a small smile.

Anna grinned, feeling a spark of excitement. “Well, I’m not saying we should jump in and make an offer right now,” she teased. “But it’s nice to dream, isn’t it?”

Alec chuckled, his gaze softening as he looked at her. “Yeah, it is.”

As they continued their breakfast, the conversation drifted to other things, but Anna couldn’t help but feel a thrill at the thought of building a future with Alec - something solid and lasting. And maybe, just maybe, that house by the sea would be a part of that future.

[keystonegraniteoh]

Simple Ways to Enhance Your Space with Stone

Stone can totally change the look of a room. It brings a unique, elegant vibe to any space. Whether it’s your kitchen, bathroom, or living room, stone just works. It’s reliable, durable, and always stylish. Let's dive into how stone can elevate your home in simple yet impactful ways.

Why Stone?

Stone is, of course, a timeless, practical and elegant material. It makes your home to appear more classy without having the feel of overdoing the wonderful look. Plus, it’s easy to maintain. Stone whether granite, marble, or quartz is an investment and will upgrade the value of your room. It lasts forever, which means this is a good investment.

Quartz: The Modern Stone Choice

The quartz is getting extremely popular and that has some very nice reasons. As it is engineered, it does not have stain and scratch issues as are found with other products. Quartz is also versatile. Quartz countertop for sale is now so easy to find in the market since there are so many choices that meet the need of consumer wants. Not only does it come in a huge variety of colours and fabrics, but it suits everyone’s sense of style. Gone is the coarse texture characteristic of natural quartz and in its place is a streamlined look that looks like natural stone but does not demand as much attention. It’s non-porous, and this tells you that you don’t need to bother about spills or stains. A couple of minutes rubbing and it is as good as new.

Quartz in Your Kitchen

Your place is the epicentre of the house. So, why not make it gorgeous? Quartz countertop is elegant and strong. It is very durable for hot pots, sharp knives, and almost everything a typical kitchen would subject the Spoon to. The best part? Quartz holds up over time. It will not fade or scratch as easily as other materials one is likely to use when designing a home. If you desire to have a kitchen that is beautiful and functional then quartz is the best thing that can happen to you.

Quartz in Your Bathroom

Stone in the bathroom is a game changer. A quartz vanity gives your bathroom that luxe spa feel. The non-porous surface means it resists water damage, mold, and stains. Quartz won’t absorb moisture like some other materials. It’s also easy to keep clean with just a wipe down. Whether you want a minimalist look or something bolder, quartz has you covered.

Using Stone in Other Spaces

Stone isn’t just for countertops. You can use it all over your home. For example, consider adding a stone accent wall. It’s a simple way to make a bold statement. Whether you use slate, quartz, or marble, a stone wall adds texture and charm to any room. You could even go for stone flooring. It’s timeless and can handle high traffic areas, like entryways or kitchens.

Taking Care of Stone

Stone is pretty easy to care for, but a little attention goes a long way. Quartz is low maintenance. A simple wipe with mild soap and water is enough. Avoid harsh chemicals—they can damage the surface. For granite or marble, you’ll need to seal it once in a while to protect it. This keeps stains away and ensures it looks fresh for years.

Mixing Stone with Other Materials

Stone pairs really well with other materials. It’s a great way to add contrast and balance to your space. For instance, mix stone with wood. This combo creates a warm, inviting vibe. Or, pair it with metal accents for a more modern, industrial feel. Glass can also soften the look of stone. Mixing materials gives your home that layered, designer feel.

Outdoor Stone

Stone isn’t just for inside. It’s great for outdoor spaces too. Have an outdoor kitchen or bar? Stone works beautifully for countertops and surfaces. It can handle the weather, from heat to rain. If you're looking to redo your patio, consider stone flooring. It’s durable and low maintenance. Plus, it’ll add charm to your yard.

Why Choose Quartz?

If you’re looking to update your space, quartz is a smart choice. You’ll find lots of quartz countertops for sale in a variety of styles. Quartz is stylish, durable, and easy to maintain. It gives you that natural stone look without the hassle. Whether you’re redoing your kitchen or bathroom, quartz is a great way to enhance your space.

Choosing the Right Stone for Your Space

When you decide to incorporate stone into your home, it's essential to consider both aesthetics and functionality. Stone materials like quartz offer a wide variety of styles and finishes, from subtle neutrals to bold designs. Whether you're upgrading your kitchen countertops or adding a new feature to your bathroom, the right stone can bring a sense of luxury and timelessness to your space. With its durability and low-maintenance nature, stone is a great option that adds both beauty and practicality to your home.

Final Thoughts

Stone is one of the best materials you can use in your home. Whether it’s quartz countertops, a stone accent wall, or stone flooring, it adds beauty, durability, and style. Stone has a timeless appeal, making it a smart investment for any space. So, if you’re looking to upgrade your home, consider adding stone to your design. Your home will feel more luxurious, and you’ll love the way it looks for years to come.

[chrisfritchteamexprealty]

One level living in Blaine! This thoughtfully designed property offers convenient main-level living with two spacious bedrooms, including a vaulted primary suite with a private ¾ bath. The updated kitchen features bright white cabinets, granite counters, a stylish tile backsplash, and new stainless-steel appliances, all added in 2023, along with updated flooring in the kitchen, informal dining room, and hallway. The vaulted living room invites you to relax by the cozy gas fireplace, which opens seamlessly to a four-season porch - the perfect spot to enjoy all of Minnesota’s seasons. A large sliding glass door connects the porch to the expansive back patio, perfect for outdoor relaxation! Additional highlights include a full bath with ample cabinet space, an inviting front entry with a convenient coat closet, and a brand-new water softener. Situated close to shopping and Highway 65, this location combines convenience with charm—don’t miss the opportunity to make this stunning home yours! Move-in ready!

Interested in a private tour? Call us at 763-746-3997 or book online: https://www.chrisfritchteam.com/homes-for-sale/MN/blaine/55449/1474-119th-ln-ne/bid-36-6622527

[shivajikshirsagar]

Avoid this common mistake when choosing water softener

Water softener are a popular solution for addressing hard water issues, helping to improve water quality, protect plumbing, and extend the lifespan of appliances. However, choosing the right water softener can be challenging, and making the wrong decision can lead to inefficiencies and unnecessary costs. The right softener can also prevent hair and skin damage, protect bathroom fittings, retain fabric color and feel, prevent stains on kitchen appliances, save on cooking gas, and reduce soap and shampoo usage. Here’s how to select the perfect water softeners with the help of S.R. Sales and Services.

[webberestates]

405 Deerhurst Ave, Camarillo, CA 93012

Camarillo Homes for Sale – Discover Luxury Living at 405 Deerhurst Ave Welcome to 405 Deerhurst Ave, an exquisite home located in the highly desirable Woodside Green Tract of Camarillo. Priced at $1,049,900, this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers an impressive 2,462 square feet of luxurious living space. With a prime location near Camarillo’s top attractions, including beaches, the Camarillo Airport, and Premium Outlets, this home provides a perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility. If you're searching for Camarillo homes for sale, this spacious two-story residence should be at the top of your list. Expansive Living Areas with Impeccable Design Step into this dream home, where comfort, style, and function merge seamlessly. The bright, naturally lit entryway welcomes you into an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. The grand living room flows effortlessly into a formal dining area, perfect for hosting elegant dinners, while the cozy family room features a charming fireplace and a wet bar, creating an inviting space for casual gatherings. For those who need additional living space, the main level also includes a versatile bedroom and a full bathroom, making it ideal for guests or multi-generational living. Whether you're hosting family gatherings or enjoying a quiet night in, the layout of this home is designed to offer maximum comfort and ease. Gourmet Kitchen Perfect for Entertaining Love to cook? The well-appointed kitchen at 405 Deerhurst Ave is designed for the home chef, featuring a spacious center island with a gas cooktop and range hood. The kitchen is open to the family room, allowing for seamless interaction while preparing meals. A charming step-down kitchenette area provides the perfect spot for casual dining or enjoying your morning coffee. The kitchen's abundant cabinetry and tile countertops provide plenty of storage and prep space, making meal preparation a breeze. Luxurious Primary Bedroom Suite Retreat Upstairs, the expansive primary suite offers a true retreat. This generously sized bedroom includes a cozy sitting area complete with a second fireplace, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a long day. The attached en-suite bathroom is a haven for relaxation, featuring a soaking tub, bay window, dual vanities, and a walk-in shower. With a spacious walk-in closet, you'll have plenty of storage space for all your needs. Additional Bedrooms and Bathrooms The upper level also includes two additional generously sized bedrooms with plenty of storage space. The shared bathroom is thoughtfully designed with dual vanities and a shower/tub combination, ensuring both convenience and comfort for your family and guests. Private Backyard Oasis Step outside to discover your private backyard oasis, designed for outdoor living and entertainment. The dark pebble saltwater pool invites you to cool off during warm summer days, while the expansive cement patio provides ample space for outdoor furniture and dining. A built-in barbecue station makes it easy to host outdoor parties and cookouts. The grassy side yard offers additional space for children and pets to play, making this backyard the ultimate outdoor retreat. Additional Features This Camarillo home for sale also includes numerous additional features that add to its convenience and functionality. A dedicated indoor laundry room provides gas and electric hookups, while a water softener enhances the quality of water throughout the home. The spacious three-car garage offers plenty of parking and storage, making it ideal for families with multiple vehicles. Prime Camarillo Location Situated just a short walk from Woodside Park, this home is ideally located for those who enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're heading to the nearby beaches, shopping at the Camarillo Premium Outlets, or exploring local parks, you'll have easy access to all the best Camarillo has to offer. The home’s quiet and peaceful neighborhood provides a serene atmosphere while keeping you close to everyday conveniences. Schedule a Viewing 405 Deerhurst Ave is more than just a home—it's a lifestyle. Offering the best of Camarillo homes for sale, this property combines luxury, functionality, and convenience in one exceptional package. With its spacious layout, high-end finishes, and private pool, this home is perfect for those seeking both comfort and style. Don't miss your opportunity to own this stunning property in one of Camarillo’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Contact Carie Hoglund-Webber, DRE #01350428, at Aviara Real Estate today to schedule your private showing. For more information or to schedule a viewing, contact: Carie Hoglund-Webber DRE #01350428 (805) 338-8077 Aviara Real Estate Read the full article

[calmdownandcook]

Any Day of the Week “Sunday Sauce”

A tomato sauce for pasta is a perfect example of not having to “stick to the recipe”. You’re in charge. Almost every ingredient has other possibilities that all work well together. A slow-simmered tomato sauce can be cooked with various types of meat like beef, pork, or lamb, and spices which infuse the sauce with deep flavors over several hours. Do you have a lack of patience? Pasta sauce can also be ready in as little as 1 hour. Understanding the basics of this sauce will help you master it and get you well on your way to calming down in the kitchen.

My lack of Italian heritage does not prevent me from making an awesome red sauce. Making one with what I have, what I like, and what’s on sale is my magical power. This is my recipe for making a no-pressure pasta sauce without crushing your soul. My mother made large vats of “Spaghetti Sauce”. She had a large cast iron Dutch oven that would bubble on the stove all day. If making this sauce happened on the day she’d bake our bread, it was a boon for all of us. We kids would sneak a piece of fresh bread, and dip it in the sauce. Who could say no to that? The 6 of us would have pasta one night, and the remainder of the sauce would be frozen to re-emerge as lasagna later in the week (spaghetti one night always meant lasagna was on its way). How are you going to adapt this recipe to reflect who you are?

The one thing I would stick to is the tomatoes. Use canned Italian imported tomatoes. They are more expensive but in the big picture, they are worth spending your money on, they are the hero and star of the show, and there is value there. I learned this from my son, Max. When your adult children can teach you something about the essentials of cooking then your job as a parent is done. Keep your eye out, buy them when on sale, and tuck them into the back of your cabinet. They will never let you down.

Serves 8 generously, and also freezes well.

1 �� to 2 pounds of Sausage, hot or sweet, or a combo, not in its casing OR

Ground beef

Ground chicken or turkey 

Ground Venison

Ground Lamb

Meat alternative

Mix and Match

¼ cup of butter OR

Olive Oil

Vegetable Shortening

2 small sweet onions, finely chopped to ¼" dice OR

Yellow Onions

Red Onions

Leeks

6 cloves garlic, minced OR

Skip the  Garlic

1 entire head of Garlic

How much Garlic do you like?

Shallots

6 ounces (1 small can ) of tomato paste

6 ounces of water

2 28-oz cans of whole canned tomatoes, (crushed with your hand into smaller pieces) OR

Tomato sauce

Diced tomatoes

Crushed tomatoes

1 cup red wine OR

White Wine

Beef Broth

Chicken Broth

2 teaspoons kosher salt OR

Skip all together?

Salt to taste, how much do you want?

1 teaspoon fresh cracked pepper OR

Skip all together?

 How much do you want?

1 teaspoon each dried basil, oregano, and parsley OR

1 tablespoon of fresh each herb?

1 tablespoon of “Italian blend” seasoning

Skip all together?

 How much do you want?

½  teaspoon red pepper flakes, OR

Skip all together?

 How much do you want?

If the instructions for this sauce were just  “Make the sauce”, I bet you could do it. You’d channel an Italian Grandma and dive in. In case you need more guidance, let’s get into it.

Brown the meat you have chosen in a large Dutch oven or a large heavy-bottom saucepan. Whatever you make big pots of soup in will work. Cook the meat until there is no more pink and it starts to brown on the bottom. Brown equals flavor. Try to break it up so there are no large clumps. Pour off excess fat. You want to leave enough so a light coating is on the bottom of your pot. Add your butter or what you have chosen. Toss in the onions and saute, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes. You don’t want the onion to brown but you want them to soften. If there is not enough fat from the browning of the meat to cook your onions in, toss in some extra butter or olive oil.

Add the garlic, tomato paste, and herbs you will use. Continue stirring to work the tomato paste all throughout what you have in the saucepan. Everything should be lightly coated with the paste. Then cook for another 5 minutes. Imagine you are toasting the tomato paste. You won’t “see” any toasting but this step will make a big difference. 

Add all of the remaining ingredients (all at once? Yup) and give a thorough stir, take a moment and appreciate all you have accomplished. Simmer this sauce for at least 1 hour but 4-6 hours is best. You want your stove to be on the lowest setting possible with a bubble popping on the surface now and then. If you feel this gets too thick add a splash of beef broth or water. Give a good stir now and then to prevent scorching on the bottom. Tada! You’re done!

If you are going to break this up into smaller portions, make sure it is completely cool before headed into the refrigerator or freezer.

What happens if you love Mushrooms but the recipe doesn’t call for mushrooms? Do it. Be wild. Add 8 ounces of sliced mushroom when you are cooking the onions (mushrooms usually come in 8-ounce packages). So how empowered you feel?

Just like the mushrooms you can add Red or Green Peppers.

Black olives give a surprising briny taste to a tomato sauce. Traditional Black Olive or Greek Black Olives are great in here. How many do you want in your sauce? Why not try a green olive?

Zucchini added in with the Onions is an easy way to bump up the vegetable measurement. They will soften and melt into the sauce.

Try adding a couple of Anchovies. They will fall apart during the simmering and add unami to the overall flavor. It’s your secret, no one has to know.

½ cup of cream or sour cream will give everything an air of elegance. Also will give you something to do with that ½ cup of cream you have in the back of your fridge. Stir it in at the last minute and don’t let the sauce come to a full boil after you’ve added it.

A Sunday Sauce will always be there for you. Containers of it in your freezer will defrost quickly. It is your buddy for when you can’t deal with dinner. It’s rewarding to make and intensely adaptable. There is a simple foundation and open to make it “your style”.

[kjcleanwater]

The Clean Stream Water Filtration System | The Clean Water Company

Discover The Clean Stream Water Filtration System from The Clean Water Company, designed to provide clean, purified water for your home. Remove contaminants and enjoy fresh-tasting water with our advanced filtration technology. Perfect for eco-conscious households. Order yours today!.

For more info. visit our website: https://www.thecleanwatercompany.ca/.

[aparnaenterpriseslimited]

Trending Tile Designs for Every Room in Your Home

New Delhi:  Tiles are an excellent choice for enhancing the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your home. With a wide variety of styles, colours, and materials available, tiles can transform any room into a stunning space. When it comes to interior design, tiles provide an array of designs, giving you a plethora of options to make any room in your house look beautiful and functional.

The perfect floor tile not only complements the rest of the decor but also brings out the desired atmosphere in each room. From kitchen floors to the bathroom walls, to your favourite living room, the right tile design can give your house that aesthetic boost and even serve you practically.

Trending tile designs for rooms

Kitchen

The kitchen is the busiest and most 'talkative' room in the house hence, constant heat, water spillage, and oil stains are part of its working routine. When it comes to kitchen tiles, durability and functionality are two major considerations. Choices including ceramic, glazed vitrified tiles, and porcelain tiles are a great fit as they are extra durable and provide many design and texture options to match your kitchen's décor. You can also try tiles with accentuated patterns to achieve spaciousness and add visual interest to your kitchen. Moreover, dark-coloured tiles are also an ideal selection as they will cover food stains or dirt marks, and make the kitchen look cleaner and aesthetic.

Bathroom

The bathroom stands as an area with frequent exposure to water and cleaning chemicals. Hence, eye-catching. water-resistant, and anti-slip tiles should be a priority. AV Mallikarjuna, Assistant Vice-President, Sales & Marketing, Aparna Enterprises Ltd shares that, choosing non-slippery tiles is not only a preferred option but a must-have requirement to guarantee safety, especially in areas with more water exposure.

Materials such as porcelain or natural stone can provide both features without compromising on the safety aspect. In addition, you can select matte tiles because they generally offer more traction or grip than glossy tiles, thereby ensuring safer tiles are utilised for bathroom floors, especially in families with children and the elderly.

The textured surface gives the user more grip, which increases the safety level against slips and falls. Moreover, while choosing your bathroom tiles, you can go for anti-skid technology that provides a superior grip and significantly reduces the risk of accidents.

Bedroom

The bedroom is a private area which is meant for your relaxation. While selecting floor tiles for this area, emphasise generating an ambience that calms the energy and relaxes the person. Concerning the tile, you can use high-quality and classy double-charged vitrified tiles, vinyl tiles, or stone tiles that are both durable and have a timeless feel.

The perfect design and colours for your bedroom floor induce a calming and cosy feel to it so that you can find peace in your bedroom in the end. Similarly, you can also use area rugs or carpet tiles as accent additions to soften the space and warm the feeling underfoot

Living Room

The living room serves as the family's dinner table, where guests come to hang out with friends or watch television shows together. For this area, choose the tiles that can stand the crowd and stay attractive at the same time. When it comes to tiles, look for those that are specifically made to handle heavy footfall like porcelain tiles, ceramic tiles, and vitrified tiles.

Neutral colours like grey, cream, or beige are often favoured by designers as they make the interior look more timeless and splendid. Additionally, wood-look tiles have become the cult favourite choice for living room flooring, as they provide the comfort and texture of wood along with the durability of tiles. For a touch of elegance, consider using decorative tiles as a focal point or creating a statement wall with patterned tiles.

Tiles are a versatile and practical choice for enhancing the design of different rooms in your home. Whether you're renovating your kitchen, doing a bathroom remodelling, or updating your living room or bedroom, there are countless designs and styles that tiles can offer. By carefully considering the specific needs and characteristics of each space, you can create a cohesive and visually appealing interior that reflects your style.

[qualimarkmachine]

Innovating The Culinary Landscape: Industries Embracing Chapatti Makers

Chapati, is a staple of Indian cuisine, has gained popularity worldwide for its simplicity, versatility and delicious taste. It is not just a machine; it is the architect of efficiency in the culinary world. As demand for authentic ethnic food continues to rise, mastering the art of Chapati making for commercial purposes presents a lucrative opportunity. For small businesses looking to venture into Chapati production, investing in the right Chapati-making machine can significantly streamline operations and enhance efficiency. In this guide, we will explore key considerations and options for selecting a Chapati-making machine for small business.

Some of the types of Chapati making machine are: semi-automatic Chapati maker, ideal for small businesses with limited space and production requirements, this machine offers manual dough feeding, automatic pressing, and cooking functionalities. Other is fully automatic; Chapati maker, designed for higher production capacities, full automatic machines feature automated dough feeding, pressing, cooking and stacking capabilities, significantly reducing labour requirements.

Some of the key considerations of the Chapati makers is that it assesses your business’s production requirements to determine the appropriate capacity of the Chapati maker. For small businesses, machines with lower to medium production capacities are typically sufficient. Consider the available space in your production facility or kitchen area to ensure the chosen machine can be accommodated without overcrowding.

Opt for a machine that is user-friendly and easy to operate, with minimal maintenance requirements. Look for features such as intuitive controls, removable components for cleaning and durable construction. Depending on your business model and menu offerings, consider machines that can produce various sizes and thicknesses of Chapatis or accommodate different types of flour blends. Choose a machine that is energy-efficient to minimize operating costs and environment impact. Look for models with energy-saving features such as programmable timers and temperature controls.

Procure high-quality ingredients such as whole-wheat flour, water and optional additives like salt or oil. Investing in automatic Chapati maker, include dough kneaders, rolling machines and high capacity griddle to streamline production. Develop a standardized recipe for Chapati dough, ensuring the right balance of flour to water ratio for optimal texture and taste, incorporating traditional techniques or modern innovations to enhance flavour and nutritional value of Chapatis.

Train staff members rigorously to adhere to the recipe and maintain consistency in production. Divide the production process into distinct stages, including dough preparation, rolling, cooking and packaging. Implement strict quality control measures at each stage to ensure uniformity in size, thickness and taste. Monitor cooking temperatures and times to achieve the perfect balance of soften and texture. Invest in attractive and functional packaging solutions that preserve freshness and enhance shelf appeal. Consider eco-friendly packaging options to align with customer preferences and sustainability initiatives.

Clearly label products with essential information such as ingredients, nutritional content and expiration dates. Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy to promote your Chapati brand across various channels, including social media, online marketplaces and traditional advertising platforms. Collaborate with distributors, retailers and foodservice providers to expand your market reach and maximize sales opportunities.The evolution of Chapati maker technology has transcended traditional kitchens, finding its place in various industries seeking efficiency, consistency and versatility. From catering services to healthcare facilities, Chapati makers have revolutionised food production processes. In the hospitality sector, where speed and consistency are a paramount, Chapati makers have become indispensable. Hotels, restaurants and catering service utilise Chapati makers to produce large quantities of Chapatis efficiently, ensuring uniformity in the quality and timely service for their patrons.

These machines enable establishments to streamline their operation, reduce labour costs and maintain high standards of food production. Schools, colleges and universities often cater to a large number of students and staff members, making efficient meal preparation a priority. Chapati makers enable educational institutions to streamline their food production processes, serving nutritious and cost-effective meals to their students and faculty. By automating Chapati making, these institutions can minimize food wastage, reduce kitchen labour and maintain consistent meals quickly. Chapati makers are also utilised in food manufacturing facilities and retail outlets to produce packaged Chapatis for consumers.

These machines enable manufacturers to mass produce Chapatis while maintaining consistency and quality throughout the production process. Retailers can offer consumers convenient and ready to eat Chapatis that retain the taste and texture of freshly made ones, meeting the demands of busy lifestyles. The adoption of automatic chapati machines across diverse industries underscores there, efficiency and adaptability to varying production needs. From hospitality and healthcare to education and beyond, these machines have become indispensable tools for streamlining food production processes and delivering high quality Chapatis to consumers, and the integration of this machine is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for communities around the world.

[blog-atechies]

Water Softener Package in Ireland

In the pursuit of a healthier and more comfortable lifestyle, the importance of water quality cannot be underestimated. Water is not just a basic need; It is the essence of life itself. However, the water flowing into our homes often contains minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which can cause water hardness problems. Fortunately, Euro Water Solution in Ireland is introducing an innovative water softener package in Ireland  designed to address these concerns and provide homes with high quality  softened  water.  

Hard Water Softener

Hard water, characterized by its high mineral content, can have harmful effects on equipment and  skin.From limescale buildup in pipes and appliances to dry, irritated skin, the effects of hard water are widespread. Euro Water Solution understands these challenges and offers a comprehensive solution tailored to the needs of Irish households.  

 At the heart of Euro Water Solution's water softener package is state-of-the-art technology that effectively removes  minerals that cause water hardness. Using advanced ion exchange processes, the system efficiently replaces calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions, resulting in softened water that is gentle on both equipment and skin. 

Features of the Euro Water Solution Package 

 One of the most notable features of the Euro Water Solution package is its user-friendly design.The installation is seamless and experienced technicians ensure hassle-free setup and integration into your home's existing water supply system. Additionally, the system operates quietly and requires minimal maintenance, providing homeowners with convenience and peace of mind.  

Water Softener Filter

 Beyond the immediate benefits of softened water, the Euro Water Solution package also contributes to long-term savings. By preventing limescale buildup on appliances such as water heaters, washing machines and dishwashers, the system extends their lifespan and reduces the need for costly repairs or replacements. In addition, softened water improves the efficiency of soaps and detergents, resulting in lower consumption and lower household costs over time.Environmental sustainability is another important aspect of Euro Water Solution's approach. By investing in a water softener package, households can significantly reduce their environmental footprint. The  efficient operation of the system minimizes water waste and energy consumption and is consistent with Ireland's commitment to conservation and green living.  

 Euro Water Solution's commitment to customer satisfaction extends beyond the initial installation. With responsive customer support and reliable after-sales service, homeowners can rest assured that their water softener package will continue to perform exceptionally for years to come.Regular maintenance checks and periodic maintenance also ensure the  longevity and optimal functionality of the system.  

Water Softener Package 

In addition to its practical benefits, the Euro Water Solution water softener package contributes to the overall well-being of homes. Softened water not only feels softer on the skin, but also makes the hair softer and easier to comb after showering. In addition, the absence of limescale residue on kitchen and bathroom utensils simplifies the cleaning routine, freeing up time for more pleasant activities.

As Ireland continues to emphasize sustainable living and environmental protection, Euro Water Solution's water softener package proves to be a contemporary solution for modern homes. By investing in water quality improvement efforts, homeowners not only improve their daily lives, but also contribute to broader efforts to conserve natural resources for future generations.  

 Conclusion 

 In summary, Euro Water Solution's water softener package in Ireland offers a comprehensive solution to Ireland's hard water problems. From the innovative technology and user-friendly design to the long-term savings and environmental benefits, the package represents a smart investment for households looking to improve water quality and  overall well-being. With Euro Water Solution every home in Ireland has access to softer, healthier water.

[larrydaleydaily]

Quick-write exercise: Asked a friend to send me any random picture and i’d write at least 1000 words that relate in some way.

Here is the picture they gave me:

Writing under the cut (1.2k words, no trigger warning necessary, I think?)

I did not proofread or edit this at all, as that is not the point of the exercise. Have at it.

She sits in her chair by the window. This is her daily ritual, sitting in the old armchair we dragged home from a yard sale, staring past the train tracks whose tremors shake our apartment and herald every passing hour, past the rows of squat houses and businesses of our town. When she's looking out that window, there is something in her eyes that I can never quite pin down, as if she's always bearing witness to something I can't see. Her hair, like every day, is pinned up as neatly as she can manage, her arms crossed neatly at the wrists. Delicate hands are folded in her lap most of the time, except when she reaches for her drink. Cradle the glass or mug as gently as a mother with her newborn, bring the vessel to her lips, set the cup down with not so much as a *clink*, fold hands together precisely as they had been. After a few moments, she returns to this world and rises from the chair. This is her ritual.

Yesterday had been hard. The soft jingling sound of her rustling for her key had my eyes wandering over to the front door of our home, waiting to see her. The door cracked open, her stepping so gingerly over the threshold before catching my gaze. Her shoulders, which I hadn't realized were held so high with tension, dropped. She does not move another muscle beyond allowing her eyes to soften until I could not read her anymore. I tipped my head in curiosity, about to ask her what was keeping her glued to our foyer, when she let her keys, her bag, and her expression drop, falling to her knees as a silent cold gripped her. I ran to her, of course, offering her every bit of myself if only to help. My arms to steady, my voice to calm, my fingers to work at getting her out of the soaking coat she wore. I did not ask what had happened. I knew.

She spent the night in that chair by the window. A storm raged outside, while a far more violent silence took hold in our home. I let her be, I know she will return when she's ready. That is not to say, however, that I cannot make this war within her a little easier. When I awoke there was an unusual quiet, one typically filled with her groans that the sun always rises too early for her liking or the sounds of her in the kitchen. Today, there will be no toast with the jam I like, nor will there be eggs cooked halfway between what either of us enjoy. No. When I drag myself from this bed, she will still be in that chair. But I can help with that. I quiet the padding of my feet as I pass the window, knowing any noise from me won't disturb her but not wanting to break the serenity of the room. I notice she is asleep. Good. She needs it. I continue my path to our kitchen, moving in a straight line towards our coffee maker. I don't use this machine often, she's the coffee person in the house, but I know the basics. I have seen her scoop the grounds and lay them here, patting it until it is flat as she talks endlessly about the latest book she read. I have watched from across the counter as she filled this reservoir with water from the tap without needing to look at it, her attention drawn by a cat meandering by the kitchen window. I know that this button here, that she could find (and has found) in the pitch black of night will start the rumbling machine that is oh-so easy to ignore while she stands in front of it. I can use this machine. For her. So I do. It's clumsy, and slower than when she does it, but I am not her.

As I wait for the monster to make the drink, I notice that the morning sun is blinding, and, if I were to sit beside her and look out the same window, I know that I could see all the way down to the rocky shore, miles and miles away. I know that the sight of the sea calms her restless soul, and that this pebble-laden, bleak beach is less than what she deserves to see, but it is our coast. Down there is where we met. She had just moved here for her job, I had moved here to run away. Both of us exploring until we found what we had been searching for. We continued to "accidentally" run into each other for weeks on that shore. She joked that it was fate, I believed it. That beach is where she confessed her quiet feelings, looking beautiful in the muted sunlight when she got too nervous to look at me and turned instead to the gently lapping waves. That beach, oh that beach. It's our sacred garden of Eden, and I know there is no risk of losing it.

A thought occurs to me. I've seen baristas put art on their coffees before. I know the basics of that process, too. Maybe I could... Yes, I can. I set about gathering what I need- what do I need? A quick search online tells me everything and, as luck would have it, we own all the necessary equipment. I am working so fervently, so focused, that I do not hear her stretch her aching limbs and move to join me. When I look up from my task, she is watching me, a tired smile on her face. I am slightly embarrassed at the passion with which I had just been moving about the kitchen, but my creation is done. She embraces me. She's warm. I ask if she slept well, she replies that I know she didn't. I release her from my arms and bid her to sit down at one of the counter chairs. Her eyes narrow a bit in amused confusion but I nudge her again, and she complies. Without opening my mouth, I tell her that I know her road has been long and hard, but that I am here for every mile marker that she wants me. I tell her that I know that this storm, too, will pass, and that I will be there to hold the umbrella for as long as she needs me. I tell her that I look at her everyday and see the hope of a new smile. I say all of that by pushing our little white mug towards her. She looks at the little scene I made, the blue of the water, the sun poking out between clouds, the beach where we met. I apologize and joke that the coffee is probably cold at this point, me having gotten very wrapped up in decorating it. I do not notice her silent tears until she is rushing towards me, right back into my ever-welcome embrace. She has no words, nor have I need of them. I know.

Hours later, after she has calmed, made herself a new coffee (I take no offense), and napped in our bed, she comes to me quietly. Nestled on the couch, tangled around each other, she tells me that she loves me and that she is making the choice to be happy. Not with those words, as is typical in our home, but by telling me she wants to sell the chair by the window.