That new Webb image really shows the structure, doesn't it? It's wild that something so big is basically getting sculpted by starlight. I read that the Pillars of Creation in the Eagle Nebula work the same way, with those young stars blowing material away. Makes you wonder how many other dark patches in old photos are actually these dense, active columns.

My well water's fine, actually.

My first build had stakes so light you could buff them out with a thumb, @miller.tara. Learned that lesson the hard way too.

Man, why does everything good have to turn into junk? I just had the same thing happen on a whirlpool, but I was dumb enough to use two of them before I caught on. Guess I'm paying the stupid tax this week. That brittle plastic feels like a toy compared to the old ones. I'm digging through my own van looking for any leftover metal clips like they're gold.

My first home purchase had a $5,000 earnest money check. I got nervous about the inspection report on the old roof, but my agent reminded me the inspection contingency was my clear way out. The money only becomes a penalty if you walk away for a reason not covered in the contract, like just changing your mind. I've seen friends lose theirs by waiving all contingencies to make a "stronger offer" in a bidding war. That's when you're truly on the hook. Reading every line of that contract is the only real protection you have.