Random randomness

[Kraken]

You're using a well? Also kidney stones.

City water.

We're shopping houses with well water, which I've never had and is mysterious to me. I just automatically assume that public water is better because I've always lived in places where it is. Apparently I am wrong.

[Blackhawk]

We're surrounded by limestone quarries. 35 state capital buildings, the Empire State Building, the Pentagon, and hundreds of other buildings were all quarried within an hour of me.

[Unagi]

You're using a well? Also kidney stones.

City water.

We're shopping houses with well water, which I've never had and is mysterious to me. I just automatically assume that public water is better because I've always lived in places where it is. Apparently I am wrong.

Well, don't leap to the conclusion that you are incorrect. We don't have data on what a well would be like in BHs area.

Also - really I think it comes down to this:
Wells are personal - and if yours is screwed in any way it's on you. Enjoy!
Public water is a community thing - and if yours is screwed in some way, thousands of people are going to be working to deal with it.

Yes, public water still has a small section of pipe you are responsible for, but that's a wash.

[Smoove_B]

We're shopping houses with well water, which I've never had and is mysterious to me. I just automatically assume that public water is better because I've always lived in places where it is. Apparently I am wrong.

A lifetime ago I was involved in certifying wells as potable during a home sale. If you have any questions about wells and well water, I'm happy to help.

Just quickly, the main difference between public water and well water is how it's handled. Many public water supplies come from wells; they're just processing the water a bit before piping it to you. With a private well, processing is minimal, if any at all. I'd recommend avoiding a small community well situation where you have a group of neighbors that share a well. They're quite common in lake and rural communities, though newer ones usually prohibit them. The most common type of treatment would be a water softener - the very thing Blackhawk would need in order to be able to not shower wearing a helmet.

[LordMortis]

You're using a well? Also kidney stones.

City water.

We're shopping houses with well water, which I've never had and is mysterious to me. I just automatically assume that public water is better because I've always lived in places where it is. Apparently I am wrong.

I imagine that depends on the city and the well/ground water. Ask Flint. Growing up, it was weird between us and our neighbor. We had clay rich soil and the water burned with iron when you drank it. They has sand rich soil and the water wreaked of sulfur, doubly so when when it was hot. Our wells were maybe 250 yard apart. I don't know how much "softening" and filtering technologies have changed over the last forty years.

[Blackhawk]

The most common type of treatment would be a water softener - the very thing Blackhawk would need in order to be able to not shower wearing a helmet.

I wish. The kind of super-sized softener that would be required is expensive and is structural - something the landlady would have to do, not me (in other words, it's not happening.) The in-house softeners/filters I've tried have been useless, and, like I mentioned before, the filters designed to last several months are shot in a week or two. That alone makes it impractical.

[Smoove_B]

I wish. The kind of super-sized softener that would be required is expensive and is structural - something the landlady would have to do, not me (in other words, it's not happening.) The in-house softeners/filters I've tried have been useless, and, like I mentioned before, the filters designed to last several months are shot in a week or two. That alone makes it impractical.

Yeah, you need a POET (point of entry) treatment system, not a POU (point of use). They make tiny systems (POU) that can be installed in an RV or those new fangled "tiny homes", but I don't have any experience with them.

Water softeners are sized based on use (i.e. how many gallons of water can they handle before needing to be recharged), so I'm not sure how practical they are for a family and presumed daily use. My softener is only dealing with 3 people and it recharges like every 5 days. My water is also quite hard (and comes from a well).

[Blackhawk]

I'm not sure how practical they are for a family and presumed daily use.

That would be "three apartments worth of people." We have the upstairs. The downstairs is split into two apartments, both of which are occupied.

And "regular maintenance" is something that doesn't exist here. We had a huge limb come down in the middle of the street, and it sat in the front yard for four months. The hedges haven't been trimmed in a couple of years (if anyone ever comes to visit, bring a machete.) Even if we could convince the landlady to install a water softener, it would be the cheapest one available, probably wouldn't be big enough for what's needed, and would probably never be recharged. Hell, it's more likely that I'd just wake up to find generic Brita filter sitting by my door.

Yeah, you need a POET (point of entry) treatment system, not a POU (point of use).

I don't want poet poo in my water, thanks.

[Isgrimnur]

Don't pout about it.

[Jaymon]

get a bit of lemon, and make your own Sprite

[Blackhawk]

The water here tested at...

438

We can't even use filters here. A three-month filter is dead in a week.

What's funny about the water we have that destroys appliances (hard water is corrosive, and even the faucets fall apart after a few years) is our electric water heater. I got curious and looked up the date, plus did some digging on how long they last.

According to the pros, a tank-style water heater should last from six to 13 years.

On average, most water heaters last between 8 and 12 years but some can last up to 20 years with regular maintenance.

A traditional tank-type water heater lasts an average of 8 to 12 years.

Ours is about to turn 28!

[hepcat]

I have become oddly obsessed with YouTube videos of people camping in extreme cold. I even found myself on Amazon the other night putting a fire starting kit in my shopping basket.

[Max Peck]

I have become oddly obsessed with YouTube videos of people camping in extreme cold. I even found myself on Amazon the other night putting a fire starting kit in my shopping basket.

Required reading...

[em2nought]

I have become oddly obsessed with YouTube videos of people camping in extreme cold. I even found myself on Amazon the other night putting a fire starting kit in my shopping basket.

You should try videos of people mowing overgrown lawns for the needy. I just cut my cousin's overgrown yard IRL, but I only have a push mower

[hepcat]

I have become oddly obsessed with YouTube videos of people camping in extreme cold. I even found myself on Amazon the other night putting a fire starting kit in my shopping basket.

Required reading...

Oh god, I’ll never do it. Which is why I’m confused about my reasons.

Although I do know how to make a Siberian log fire now that can last for up to 6 or more hours with very little tending.

[Smoove_B]

Although I do know how to make a Siberian log fire now that can last for up to 6 or more hours with very little tending.

Did you learn how to make a self-feeding camp fire yet?

Also: When I was in Scouts and was given the green-light to play with fire, it was like having the Superbowl every day for me. I spent an entire week at summer camp learning how to make every type of fire you can imagine, practicing them for hours a day. It's a very useful skill.

So yeah, I totally get it.

[dbt1949]

I know how to turn the thermostat up to 75.

[LordMortis]

After three seasons of losing weight and mostly letting my feet be free of snug shoes, one day of real shoes are both looser at the heel and around my feet leading up the knuckles and have instantly rubbed the knuckle on my big toe raw. I may need to break down and go to a real shoe store with real fittings for my feet. Generic "extra wides" just don't cut it. I haven't had fitted shoes since I was in my early 20s when I discovered Eccos.

I know how to turn the thermostat up to 75.

I just turned the heat on a couple days ago. We're in some days at 80+ and some nights at 40- season. Trying not to use the AC. It gets weird to turn the heat on at night and then open the doorwall during the day.

[Kasey Chang]

New Balance and Propet have extra-extra-wides (basically 6Es) and sometimes, Underarmour as well.

I've bought 6E shoes since... 2018 or maybe a little earlier. I remember going down to NB flagship store here in SF and wanted them to measure my feet, and they have one of those foot measuring platforms that's all done electronically. We ended up mail ordering a pair that costs over $200, but I was starting a delivery job and I know I'll be on my feet all the time. From there on I started ordering 6E shoes myself and I sometimes find them on Amazon and other places... at much cheaper prices.

[LordMortis]

Yeah, but I'll still need to go find them which likely means real shoe store. Last I remember, in traditional sizes I was 3E but still had to break them in in painful fashion. Eccos fit a lot better than traditional sizes back then. I have no idea what the numbers were for them and that was also 30 years ago.

[Kasey Chang]

Sounds like you need them measured again.

[Anonymous Bosch]

After three seasons of losing weight and mostly letting my feet be free of snug shoes, one day of real shoes are both looser at the heel and around my feet leading up the knuckles and have instantly rubbed the knuckle on my big toe raw. I may need to break down and go to a real shoe store with real fittings for my feet. Generic "extra wides" just don't cut it. I haven't had fitted shoes since I was in my early 20s when I discovered Eccos.

Yeah, but I'll still need to go find them which likely means real shoe store. Last I remember, in traditional sizes I was 3E but still had to break them in in painful fashion. Eccos fit a lot better than traditional sizes back then. I have no idea what the numbers were for them and that was also 30 years ago.

I'm going to reiterate the advice I previously offered:

I need to get better shoes. I have many "cheap" shoes and the only ones that serve me are a $45 pair Sketcher sandals and with my gait I am wearing right through the soles. I need some incredibly wide shoes. For reasons foreign to me wide shoes are impossible to find and when I do they aren't ever actually wide shoes. As I get older my feet are becoming more and more rebellious against uncomfortable shoes.

If you want a quality pair of shoes or boots that will fit you perfectly, find a local specialty store that carries the higher-end athletic brands of footwear such as Hoka One One, Brooks, and Saucony. Easiest way to do that? Use the store locator for the aforementioned brands:

• Hoka One One
• Brooks
• Saucony

Specialty athletic footwear stores like this carry a much, much broader selection of sizes to choose from. They typically also offer personalized 'Fit Stations,' that help provide specific shoe recommendations based on your particular foot type, measurements, and gait. Suffice to say, it's well worth spending extra for durable footwear that will fit you properly and far more comfortably than any $45 pair of Skecher sandals.

[Kraken]

I'm on my second pair of Brooks Adrenalines. They give me the support that I needed to make my plantar fasciitis go away and, although billed as running shoes, are comfy and lightweight for power walking. They're the most expensive shoes I've ever bought, and they'll wear out after 500 miles...but they're worth it, for me.

[hepcat]

I'm on my second pair of Brooks Adrenalines.

Wearing 'em during a full moon doesn't help!

[Anonymous Bosch]

After three seasons of losing weight and mostly letting my feet be free of snug shoes, one day of real shoes are both looser at the heel and around my feet leading up the knuckles and have instantly rubbed the knuckle on my big toe raw. I may need to break down and go to a real shoe store with real fittings for my feet. Generic "extra wides" just don't cut it. I haven't had fitted shoes since I was in my early 20s when I discovered Eccos.

Yeah, but I'll still need to go find them which likely means real shoe store. Last I remember, in traditional sizes I was 3E but still had to break them in in painful fashion. Eccos fit a lot better than traditional sizes back then. I have no idea what the numbers were for them and that was also 30 years ago.

Here's an example of precisely the type of store I'd recommend you visit, which is perhaps in reasonable proximity of your particular locale in SE Michigan:

Fleet Feet
17783 Haggerty Rd,
Northville, MI 48168
(248) 380-3338

The Fleet Feet fit id® Outfitting Process
With 3D Foot-Scanning Technology

Find Your Perfect Fit

Dedicated to Fitting You for More Than 45 Years
The Fleet Feet Outfitting Process focuses on providing you with running shoes that fit properly, gear that improves your experience and knowledge to help you move your best—whether that’s a 10-minute walk or a three-hour marathon.

Nearly 80 percent of us have a noticeable discrepancy between our left foot and our right foot. Our trained Outfitters are dedicated to understanding what makes your feet unique by using best-in-class technology and personal expertise to put you in the best shoes.

Whether you want to walk farther, tackle your first race, or chase down a PR, our specialized fit process combines the best in customer service with insightful technology to deliver unbeatable comfort mile after mile.



Personalized Solutions

If our database of over 5 million foot scans has taught us anything, it’s that your body is unique, and so is the way it moves. Our 3D fit id® foot scanning technology allows us to gather information about your feet and the support they need by taking precise measurements of your foot length, width and arch height. This data in combination with our Dynamic Pressure Mapping system helps our highly trained Outfitters assess your foot’s path of motion and stride as you walk so they can find the perfect shoes for you.

Depending on how your body naturally moves while you walk or run, our Outfitters can determine the amount of support you need from your shoes. The type of foam, arch support and upper construction can all affect how comfortable you feel on the move in your shoes.

3D Scanning Lets Us Profile Your Foot

Our state-of-the-art scanner uses a set of specialized cameras to capture 12 precise data points to construct a 3D image of your foot. Measurements like foot length, width, volume and arch height help us fit you in the best shoes for your unique feet.

Fleet Feet outfitters create a profile for you based on your 3D scan so you can save your data and revisit it later as you shop for shoes either in store or online. We can even order custom insoles so you can take your unique support system with you when you buy new shoes.

Pressure Plate Readings Tell Us How You Move

Our Outfitters use a specialized pressure plate* to analyze your gait pattern and the pressure points on your feet as you walk. This helps us get a clear idea of the way your body moves and the support and cushioning you may need based on the natural rolling motion of your feet.

Understanding where your body places pressure on your feet while you walk lets us gauge if you have a neutral gait or if you pronate or supinate. While there is no correct way for your body to move, you can make sure you feel (and look) your best while you run or walk by getting shoes that are designed to support your foot at high-pressure points.

Shop the Best Shoes For You

At the end of the day, the shoes that feel good are probably good for you. But it doesn’t hurt to have a little help to keep you feeling healthy mile after mile. Using your 3D scan and pressure plate reading, our Outfitters will suggest and fit you in shoes, insoles and socks that are best suited to your needs.

[LordMortis]

It's within driving distance. I'll give it a thunk, maybe the next time I get infusion in November which puts me in that area, assuming my insurance still works the same in November.

[Blackhawk]

My shoes have earned holes, and with snowy season coming up, I'm going to have to start looking again soon, too. I dread that. I have large, wide feet (12 wide or extra wide, depending on the shoe), and the Vasque shoes I've been wearing for the past decade are no longer available.

[Rumpy]

I'm notoriously difficult when it comes to shoe shopping. I wear size 7's or 7 1/2's depending on how they're made , but most places don't carry those sizes. Then on top of that, because I have flat feet, if I do find size 7's that have very pronounced arches, I can't wear them as it's painful for my feet or they're just awkward to walk in, so that also limits me on what's available.

[Anonymous Bosch]

I'm notoriously difficult when it comes to shoe shopping. I wear size 7's or 7 1/2's depending on how they're made , but most places don't carry those sizes. Then on top of that, because I have flat feet, if I do find size 7's that have very pronounced arches, I can't wear them as it's painful for my feet or they're just awkward to walk in, so that also limits me on what's available.

Per the advice I offered for Lordmortis above, here's a specialist athletic footwear store called Running Room that appears to be situated in your locale:

SUDBURY RUNNING ROOM STORE - P3E 5S1
Address
Cedar Pointe Plaza
117-1984 Regent St
Sudbury, ON P3E 5S1
Phone: (705) 523-4664
Email: sudbury@runningroom.com

Even if you aren't a runner or even particularly active, a specialist store like this can provide you with specific shoe recommendations based upon your particular foot type, length, width, arch height, and gait. If you'll pardon the pun, the remarkable comfort and fit of the shoes you will find available there tend to be a significant step up from purchasing at a typical big box retail store.

[Rumpy]

Yeah, I've gotten similar advice from a friend for that very place, but it's very expensive, which is why I've been so reluctant.

[Anonymous Bosch]

Yeah, I've gotten similar advice from a friend for that very place, but it's very expensive, which is why I've been so reluctant.

Granted, their footwear almost certainly will be pricier than what's available at a typical big box retailer. But why bother settling for the pain and discomfort of the poorly-fitting flimflam footwear big box retailers typically sell if you can afford to spend extra for shoes that will fit you perfectly and feel supremely comfortable? Considering how much time we tend to spend on our feet -- and just how painful and irritating poorly-fitting footwear can be -- it's well worth spending a wee bit more for properly-fitted, comfortable, and durable footwear.

[Rumpy]

Well, because it's not that I can't find something comfortable, just that it's fairly rare due to my requirements. My current shoes are sketchers and they're very comfortable. But I don't always come across the right size. It's made more difficult with the fact that my two feet are slightly different sizes.

[gilraen]

I spent about 5 hours at an outlet mall a few weeks ago, replacing almost every pair of non-dress shoes I had. Apparently almost all my shoes were from 15-20 years ago and absolute torture on my feet (last time I went hiking, I lost a toenail). My running shoes were still comfortable size-wise but had too many miles on them, so the inside lining was practically shredding and giving me blisters even just running on the treadmill. I didn't realize that mall was in my area, I found it by accident when looking online for a New Balance store. I have a really hard time buying any shoes that don't hurt my feet, and it was a good compromise between a big box retailer and a specialized foot store (getting many times the selection of a single retail store where it's possible to find something that works without having to resort to a custom fit).

[Anonymous Bosch]

Well, because it's not that I can't find something comfortable, just that it's fairly rare due to my requirements. My current shoes are sketchers and they're very comfortable. But I don't always come across the right size. It's made more difficult with the fact that my two feet are slightly different sizes.

Rest assured, in terms of footwear availability, I wasn't trying to imply that you were some sort of club-footed cripple.

But there's a world of difference between the relative 'comfort' of a suitable pair of Skechers vs. having a specialist footwear store take precise measurements of your gait, foot length, width, and arch height, and then provide you with an appropriate selection of high-quality recommendations that will fit you perfectly and feel supremely comfortable. The point being, there is a noticeable difference, and you don't have much to lose by simply paying the store a visit, having them take precise measurements of your feet, and testing out the footwear they recommend for you. Even if you come away from the experience feeling their prices are still too exorbitant, you can use their recommendations and measurements to shop more accurately online and find a better deal.

[Isgrimnur]

California becomes the first state to ban 4 food additives linked to disease

The California Food Safety Act prohibits the manufacturing, distribution and sale of food and beverages that contain brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, propylparaben and red dye 3 — which can be found in candy, fruit juices, cookies and more.
...
The law won't be implemented until 2027, which Newsom says will give companies enough time to "revise their recipes to avoid these harmful chemicals" in their products.

The Food and Drug Administration banned the use of red dye 3 in cosmetics in 1990 after evidence showed it caused cancer in lab animals. But the government hasn't prohibited its use in food, and it's an ingredient in candies such as Brach's candy corn and Pez. Brominated vegetable oil and potassium bromate have also been associated with harmful effects on the respiratory and nervous systems, while propylparaben may negatively impact reproductive health.

[Zarathud]

I am a big fan of Ecco shoes — from dress shoes to athletic shoes. Very comfortable.

[Jaymon]

I am experiencing work related stress and anger today. Its very stressfull and angering.

[Isgrimnur]

I am a big fan of Ecco shoes — from dress shoes to athletic shoes. Very comfortable.

I hear their dolphins are highly regarded.

[Fardaza]

I am experiencing work related stress and anger today. Its very stressfull and angering.

I'm so glad I don't have to deal with work related stress and anger anymore! That part of retirement is great.

I hope the rest of your day calmed down a bit.

[Daehawk]

I got an Amazon holiday catalog in the mail today. Just after everyone else stops their paper catalogs a online place like Amazon prints one.