Author Topic: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance  (Read 19878 times)

Metalcat

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #50 on: August 16, 2020, 05:51:11 PM »
Reusable, washable cloth menstrual pads. I haven’t bought pads in years and haven’t ever missed the plasticky disposables.

Stainless steel and cast iron cookware. We always bought non-stick pans because that’s what our parents always had, but Teflon gets destroyed after a few years of heavy use. We started replacing those about 10 years ago and don’t ever expect to replace our current pots and pans.

Good job. You'll never see a teflon pot or pan in a commercial kitchen, and they manage to cook plenty of meals!

Yeah, but we have min-wage dish washers to clean them in commercial kitchens ;)

I cook almost exclusively with cast iron and copper, but I have a cheap, trashy little slippery pan for cooking eggs in the morning, which takes seconds to clean and no scrubbing.

maisymouser

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #51 on: August 16, 2020, 06:33:21 PM »
Not a perfect match, but both an electric car & installing solar panels. We had to upgrade our electrical panels to install A/C (which, btw, incredibly grateful for on days like today) & the solar panels both helped to offset my guilt & made me feel good about reducing our power bill to pretty much zero.

For the electric car, like maisymouser, love not going to a gas station.

Never thought the actual visit to a gas station as bad. What makes it bad enough to make it one of the reasons to go plug-in? I don’t mean the $$. It’s a five minute stop every three weeks.

Just curious, in your area, is it hard to get into? No pay at the pump? Lines? Horribly slow pumps? Way out of the way? Long commute and a three time a week thing?

I don't know if I can explain it properly being on the other side now. Like, it didn't specifically bother me until I got to experience life *without* the need to gas up. It would be like going from contacts to 20/20 vision- not a major bother or anything, but much nicer not to deal with it at all!

At the time I was commuting about an hour a day and drove a non-hybrid with relatively low mileage, so I was filling up probably once a week (thanks to MMM I immediately moved within biking distance when I got a new job). No gas stations have been a very unexpected benefit that I didn't think I would derive nearly as much pleasure out of until I didn't have to deal with it at all.

Metalcat

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #52 on: August 16, 2020, 06:36:41 PM »
Not a perfect match, but both an electric car & installing solar panels. We had to upgrade our electrical panels to install A/C (which, btw, incredibly grateful for on days like today) & the solar panels both helped to offset my guilt & made me feel good about reducing our power bill to pretty much zero.

For the electric car, like maisymouser, love not going to a gas station.

Never thought the actual visit to a gas station as bad. What makes it bad enough to make it one of the reasons to go plug-in? I don’t mean the $$. It’s a five minute stop every three weeks.

Just curious, in your area, is it hard to get into? No pay at the pump? Lines? Horribly slow pumps? Way out of the way? Long commute and a three time a week thing?

I don't know if I can explain it properly being on the other side now. Like, it didn't specifically bother me until I got to experience life *without* the need to gas up. It would be like going from contacts to 20/20 vision- not a major bother or anything, but much nicer not to deal with it at all!

At the time I was commuting about an hour a day and drove a non-hybrid with relatively low mileage, so I was filling up probably once a week (thanks to MMM I immediately moved within biking distance when I got a new job). No gas stations have been a very unexpected benefit that I didn't think I would derive nearly as much pleasure out of until I didn't have to deal with it at all.

I get you. I *despise* having to gas up my car. I can't really explain why, but I truly hate it. I would have an electric car if the infrastructure existed in my building's parking garage.

maisymouser

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #53 on: August 16, 2020, 06:44:16 PM »
Not a perfect match, but both an electric car & installing solar panels. We had to upgrade our electrical panels to install A/C (which, btw, incredibly grateful for on days like today) & the solar panels both helped to offset my guilt & made me feel good about reducing our power bill to pretty much zero.

For the electric car, like maisymouser, love not going to a gas station.

Never thought the actual visit to a gas station as bad. What makes it bad enough to make it one of the reasons to go plug-in? I don’t mean the $$. It’s a five minute stop every three weeks.

Just curious, in your area, is it hard to get into? No pay at the pump? Lines? Horribly slow pumps? Way out of the way? Long commute and a three time a week thing?
I’m not sure why but filling up the tank is something I’ve grown to hate. It is less bad now that I am doing it much less frequently, but for whatever reason it just irritates me. Finding the time in a packed routine, the smell, the way my hands inevitably get dirty.
It seems silly for how annoying I find it so I’m not quite sure.

I think this is precisely the kind of annoyance I'm getting at. If something is a big issue, it produces enough pain in our lives where we will definitely do something about it. But if its a small nagging thing, its likely we will just put up with it and deal with it, especially with the bent of this forum to be "badass" and put up annoying things because we don't want to spend money being a "consumerist sucka".

In many ways I think this can be a helpful starting perspective to have, but at the point where you have enough cash where spending is not going to appreciably hurt your long term plans, why not spend to fix some problem, even if its something that you technically could "put up with?"

Many times, there isn't a direct causal link between Spending Money -> Better life. But sometimes there actually is, and at some point, I think it would be foolish to not spend the money when you could permanently remove something that regularly detracts from your enjoyment of life.

What I like most about this community is an overall acceptance of spending money on things that actually provide value and joy provided they are reasonably sustainable. Being mindful about how I optimize my happiness as a function of money, time, and personal factors is a source of endless interest for me and I absolutely love seeing how other people find their maxima.

I'm noticing that many items in this thread just so happen to be more eco-friendly and sustainable solutions (reusable menstrual pads/cups! cast iron pans that don't have teflon! solar energy! electric vehicles!). Another reason to love the MMM forums.

Sibley

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #54 on: August 16, 2020, 07:39:02 PM »
A Roomba, so I only need to manually vacuum with the heavy duty vacuum quarterly.
Tempered glasses and Corelle plates+bowls. Nothing ever breaks now.
A track pump (aka floor pump) to quickly inflate bike tires.
A doggie door.

Corelle dinnerware is the best (utilitarian) I've ever had.

I was given some that's very old (~40) and it still looks brand new.

My Corelle dishes belonged to my grandmother. Quick google search suggests 70s.

Edit: On topic, replacing the roof. I was chasing leaks for 3 years and have water damage in 3 rooms upstairs. New roof, no more leaks, and the water damage can finally be repaired.
« Last Edit: August 16, 2020, 07:43:26 PM by Sibley »

FIRE Artist

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #55 on: August 16, 2020, 10:36:13 PM »
Reusable, washable cloth menstrual pads. I haven’t bought pads in years and haven’t ever missed the plasticky disposables.

Stainless steel and cast iron cookware. We always bought non-stick pans because that’s what our parents always had, but Teflon gets destroyed after a few years of heavy use. We started replacing those about 10 years ago and don’t ever expect to replace our current pots and pans.

Good job. You'll never see a teflon pot or pan in a commercial kitchen, and they manage to cook plenty of meals!

Yeah, but we have min-wage dish washers to clean them in commercial kitchens ;)

I cook almost exclusively with cast iron and copper, but I have a cheap, trashy little slippery pan for cooking eggs in the morning, which takes seconds to clean and no scrubbing.

This.  I have both cast iron and non stick.  Nothing beats a non stick pan for scrambled eggs and omelettes. 

FIRE Artist

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #56 on: August 16, 2020, 10:57:51 PM »
A couple more things that i thought of today (I am sure I have tons more things that have seamlessly worked their way into my life and now I don’t think of them).

Litter Kwitter  to train my kitten to use the toilet instead of a litter box.  This was done 10 years ago and still going strong.  I still use the outer ring of the system because it gives her a sturdier perch than a slippery toilet seat. 

IKEA remote socket controllers.  I live in a 1970’s house with no overhead lighting in the living room.  I have a reading lamp/torchiere behind my chair that has a really annoying foot control to turn it off/on, that required me to pull the chair out of the way to turn on the light.  Now I just click it, and another lamp, on with the remote switch.  Simpler than the fancy pants smartphone sockets being hawked at the hardware store and better than replacing a perfectly functioning lamp. 

mjdh1957

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #57 on: August 17, 2020, 03:00:19 AM »
A water softener.

Most of Ireland has hard water, but where I live has really, really hard water. I moved three years ago from a soft water area and hated it....

I got a nice under-sink water softener when I refurbished the kitchen and bathroom that takes salt and removes all the limescale. Not more kettles filling up with chalky residue and of course the water tastes so much better. When I moved in the water tank in the loft was buckling under the extra weight....

Imma

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #58 on: August 17, 2020, 04:39:34 AM »
There is a special tool that opens and closes the Master Link on bicycle chains.  If you don't have it, you can open the link with needle-nose pliers, but it's much harder and frustrating, and will make you think that you just suck at bike maintenance.  I bought the 9 dollar tool, making the "open the Master Link" step effortless.  Turns out everyone sucks at bike maintenance when they don't have the right tools.

If you ride your bike as frequently as a Mustachian should be riding, you'll have to change your chain every once in a while.   A master link tool is well worth the money to prevent ever having to open the master link with needle nose pliers again.
Same tool, additional reason: chain cleaning is quicker, less messy, and uses less water now I can just take the chain off to clean it.

A bike with a chainguard! Never ever will I own a bike again with a chain that is not fully enclosed.

vand

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #59 on: August 17, 2020, 04:46:50 AM »
Contract killings?

AnnaGrowsAMustache

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #60 on: August 17, 2020, 05:12:40 AM »
I know there are people here that will think this is a stupid expenditure, but over the decades I have realised that good products make life a lot easier. A good moisturiser, for example. Doesn't have to be expensive, obviously, but I've tried them ALL and I don't do well on the cheapest either. Yes, I know that humans around the world don't use moisturiser. Many of those also don't use soap, shampoo, detergent, have air conditioner or handle a lot of paper. Do you have any idea how drying paper is if you work in a production environment?? Hot paper and toner fumes, yay!

Metalcat

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #61 on: August 17, 2020, 05:33:10 AM »
I know there are people here that will think this is a stupid expenditure, but over the decades I have realised that good products make life a lot easier. A good moisturiser, for example. Doesn't have to be expensive, obviously, but I've tried them ALL and I don't do well on the cheapest either. Yes, I know that humans around the world don't use moisturiser. Many of those also don't use soap, shampoo, detergent, have air conditioner or handle a lot of paper. Do you have any idea how drying paper is if you work in a production environment?? Hot paper and toner fumes, yay!

Good moisturizers aren't overly expensive. The Ordinary makes phenomenal simple products with high quality active ingredients that don't cost much. A little retinol at night really does make a huge difference.

AnnaGrowsAMustache

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #62 on: August 17, 2020, 07:30:45 AM »
I know there are people here that will think this is a stupid expenditure, but over the decades I have realised that good products make life a lot easier. A good moisturiser, for example. Doesn't have to be expensive, obviously, but I've tried them ALL and I don't do well on the cheapest either. Yes, I know that humans around the world don't use moisturiser. Many of those also don't use soap, shampoo, detergent, have air conditioner or handle a lot of paper. Do you have any idea how drying paper is if you work in a production environment?? Hot paper and toner fumes, yay!

Good moisturizers aren't overly expensive. The Ordinary makes phenomenal simple products with high quality active ingredients that don't cost much. A little retinol at night really does make a huge difference.

I can get retinol cream at a massively subsidised price on prescription from my friendly local GP. She has all her female patients aging well! Except I can't tolerate it, even with the recommended very slow build up. I have issues with just about every additive people recommend, plus all fragrances. Seriously. I recently tried a new face cream suggested by a friend. I put a little on my neck. I knew within a few hours that this was not workable and washed it all off. The creases in my neck went bright red the next day, and spent a week after that flaking. I looked like I'd been garroted. What was this terrible cream? Cetaphil! Supposedly gentle and free of nasty crap, recommended by actual dermatologists.

Shiseido moisturisers are the only ones I can use on my face. Nivea for hands and legs.

E.T.

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #63 on: August 17, 2020, 07:47:24 AM »
Reusable, washable cloth menstrual pads. I haven’t bought pads in years and haven’t ever missed the plasticky disposables.
...

This. I bought a few fancy pairs of Thinx and they're more comfortable than a tampon or pads. It's made running during my period a lot more doable too which is nice. I only wish I had thought of it sooner, I should have bought reusables years ago lol.

FIRE Artist

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #64 on: August 17, 2020, 09:00:11 AM »
I know there are people here that will think this is a stupid expenditure, but over the decades I have realised that good products make life a lot easier. A good moisturiser, for example. Doesn't have to be expensive, obviously, but I've tried them ALL and I don't do well on the cheapest either. Yes, I know that humans around the world don't use moisturiser. Many of those also don't use soap, shampoo, detergent, have air conditioner or handle a lot of paper. Do you have any idea how drying paper is if you work in a production environment?? Hot paper and toner fumes, yay!

Have you tried Working Hands hand cream?  That is the only stuff that prevents me from getting bleeding cracks on the tips of my fingers in winter.  It really is magical stuff.  When I started using it I could only find it at the hardware store, but now see it in grocery stores. 

MrTurtle

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #65 on: August 17, 2020, 06:56:50 PM »
There is a special tool that opens and closes the Master Link on bicycle chains.  If you don't have it, you can open the link with needle-nose pliers, but it's much harder and frustrating, and will make you think that you just suck at bike maintenance.  I bought the 9 dollar tool, making the "open the Master Link" step effortless.  Turns out everyone sucks at bike maintenance when they don't have the right tools.

If you ride your bike as frequently as a Mustachian should be riding, you'll have to change your chain every once in a while.   A master link tool is well worth the money to prevent ever having to open the master link with needle nose pliers again.
Same tool, additional reason: chain cleaning is quicker, less messy, and uses less water now I can just take the chain off to clean it.

You're supposed to CLEAN the chain?  Maybe I do suck at bike maintenance...

AnnaGrowsAMustache

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #66 on: August 17, 2020, 07:12:09 PM »
I know there are people here that will think this is a stupid expenditure, but over the decades I have realised that good products make life a lot easier. A good moisturiser, for example. Doesn't have to be expensive, obviously, but I've tried them ALL and I don't do well on the cheapest either. Yes, I know that humans around the world don't use moisturiser. Many of those also don't use soap, shampoo, detergent, have air conditioner or handle a lot of paper. Do you have any idea how drying paper is if you work in a production environment?? Hot paper and toner fumes, yay!

Have you tried Working Hands hand cream?  That is the only stuff that prevents me from getting bleeding cracks on the tips of my fingers in winter.  It really is magical stuff.  When I started using it I could only find it at the hardware store, but now see it in grocery stores.

Very unwilling to try anything new, but thanks for your kind suggestion :)

Adventine

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #67 on: August 17, 2020, 07:19:21 PM »

SailingOnASmallSailboat

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #68 on: August 18, 2020, 06:03:05 AM »
We have no space for a spice drawer in the kitchen as it is now, and pulling overflowing baskets out from the depths of the temporary shelving we've installed was quickly driving me nuts. I spent an absurd amount of money on a countertop spice carousel made of wood, from a company my grandfather used to work for a long time ago, and I can't stop fondling it every time I look at it. I do not regret any penny of that purchase.

I'm so happy to have my spices displayed in a beautiful piece of wooden kit, all organized in alphabetical order. Ahhhh.

middo

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #69 on: August 18, 2020, 06:54:13 AM »
Dishwasher.  So mamy years washing dishes and now, a couple of minutes stacking and its done.

Poundwise

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #70 on: August 18, 2020, 07:26:36 AM »
The "Easy-on" Costco gutterguards. There was a small tree growing out of our gutters when we moved in.  After cleaning, we paid roofers $300 to install the gutter guards and we have not had to have them cleaned since!

John Galt incarnate!

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #71 on: August 18, 2020, 02:02:22 PM »


A bike with a chainguard! Never ever will I own a bike again with a chain that is not fully enclosed.


Why?

I've seen photographs of bikes in Europe that have completely enclosed chains.

Do wraparound chain guards have an oil bath for the chain?

Do unenclosed chains throw off dirt/grease/grit  that gets on your shoes/pants?

Anon-E-Mouze

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #72 on: August 18, 2020, 03:43:16 PM »
I am at that age where I (ahem) run warm. I got a standing/oscillating fan and it's AWESOME. We've been able to significantly reduce our use of A/C this summer.

Imma

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #73 on: August 18, 2020, 05:01:17 PM »


A bike with a chainguard! Never ever will I own a bike again with a chain that is not fully enclosed.


Why?

I've seen photographs of bikes in Europe that have completely enclosed chains.

Do wraparound chain guards have an oil bath for the chain?

Do unenclosed chains throw off dirt/grease/grit  that gets on your shoes/pants?

All of the above. Chains that are not protected against the elements need to be cleaned and oiled all the time. This is nasty work that everyone hates. Which is why many people don't do it as often as they should and then the chain will rust. Sure, if you ride once a month on sunny days it's not a big hassle but if you ride a bike everyday regardless of the weather you're going to get tired of chain maintenance.

You don't have to oil a chain that's completely encased, they have an oil bath. I bring my bike in for maintenance once a year and they generally either replace the chain or oil it again. I think I get about 7k km out of a chain and I never have to do any maintenance. That €45/year for service is well worth the money and keeps my local bikeshop in business. I'm not a bike racer or anything but I do like to keep my bike well maintained.

Exposed chains are also quite vulnerable so they get damaged quite easily. You park it somewhere and someone else's bike falls over and the pedal damages your chain etc. And the chain does throw off dirt and rainwater that ruins your clothes and your shoelaces can get tangled up in it (believe me, this can happen. It was not fun)

I actually still own a vintage racing bike from the 1970s (that I got for free 10 years ago and can't bear to part with) and it's fun to ride it and it's a really nice looking bike but it needs so much maintenance that it hasn't been out of the shed for years. I haven't found a new owner who loves it yet.

Raenia

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #74 on: August 19, 2020, 12:35:43 PM »
Reusable, washable cloth menstrual pads. I haven’t bought pads in years and haven’t ever missed the plasticky disposables.
...

This. I bought a few fancy pairs of Thinx and they're more comfortable than a tampon or pads. It's made running during my period a lot more doable too which is nice. I only wish I had thought of it sooner, I should have bought reusables years ago lol.

+1, so much better than pads!  I had been using a menstrual cup with pads as backup for years, thinking I was doing so well by quitting tampons.  I tried out a pair of Thinx and was instantly converted.  I now only use the cup on my heaviest days or when I'm waiting for my Thinx to dry after washing.  This may not apply to anyone else, because bodies are all individual, but I've realized getting cramps almost always coincides with wearing the cup.  I was so happy when they came out with the super absorbent styles, because now if I start to get cramps I can take the cup out, even if it's an overnight.  How's that for permanently fixing an annoyance!

Moustachienne

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #75 on: August 19, 2020, 12:57:16 PM »
Rubbermaid lazy susan spinners for cupboards and fridge.  No more digging for vinegars/oils in the cupboard or condiments in the fridge.  Everything is just a spin away!

On the more expensive side - professionally designed and installed closet inserts.  After 20 years of IKEA solutions in our small 1950's closets, we gave 2 of them the professional treatment.  Unbelievable improvement in the use of space!

John Galt incarnate!

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #76 on: August 19, 2020, 03:41:38 PM »


A bike with a chainguard! Never ever will I own a bike again with a chain that is not fully enclosed.


Why?

I've seen photographs of bikes in Europe that have completely enclosed chains.

Do wraparound chain guards have an oil bath for the chain?

Do unenclosed chains throw off dirt/grease/grit  that gets on your shoes/pants?

All of the above. Chains that are not protected against the elements need to be cleaned and oiled all the time. This is nasty work that everyone hates. Which is why many people don't do it as often as they should and then the chain will rust. Sure, if you ride once a month on sunny days it's not a big hassle but if you ride a bike everyday regardless of the weather you're going to get tired of chain maintenance.

You don't have to oil a chain that's completely encased, they have an oil bath. I bring my bike in for maintenance once a year and they generally either replace the chain or oil it again. I think I get about 7k km out of a chain and I never have to do any maintenance. That €45/year for service is well worth the money and keeps my local bikeshop in business. I'm not a bike racer or anything but I do like to keep my bike well maintained.

Exposed chains are also quite vulnerable so they get damaged quite easily. You park it somewhere and someone else's bike falls over and the pedal damages your chain etc. And the chain does throw off dirt and rainwater that ruins your clothes and your shoelaces can get tangled up in it (believe me, this can happen. It was not fun)

I actually still own a vintage racing bike from the 1970s (that I got for free 10 years ago and can't bear to part with) and it's fun to ride it and it's a really nice looking bike but it needs so much maintenance that it hasn't been out of the shed for years. I haven't found a new owner who loves it yet.

Thanks!

I read every word of your detailed answer.

I like the curvy lines and  valance of  the skirt  guard  on  Dutch/European bikes.

And the look of full-enclosure chain guards too.

Here are some beautiful bikes.

The cream-colored one is my favorite.
« Last Edit: August 19, 2020, 04:14:49 PM by John Galt incarnate! »

MayDay

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #77 on: August 20, 2020, 05:50:53 AM »
A robovac.

Walking on dirty floors drives me nuts. It's partially liking my house to be clean, but it's mostly a sensory thing. We have all wood floors so my feet feel dust, dirt, etc (the basement carpet being a bit dirty is no problem! Haha).

Sadly our cheap 150$ robovac just died after 18 glorious months. Now to decide on a replacement.

John Galt incarnate!

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #78 on: August 20, 2020, 06:46:28 AM »
I am at that age where I (ahem) run warm. I got a standing/oscillating fan and it's AWESOME. We've been able to significantly reduce our use of A/C this summer.

I dislike the thrum of air conditioners.

I don't mind the muted  whir of fans.

I have a shorter, oscillating fan that has 3 speeds.

It's about 2 feet tall.

It's right next to my bed.

I also have a 3-speed box  fan for my bedroom window.





 
















pharmmm

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #79 on: August 20, 2020, 07:21:41 AM »
Full disclosure that I already had the batteries because this is the power tool/yard tool set I have, but this inflator/deflator pump has been an awesome buy.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/RYOBI-18-Volt-ONE-Dual-Function-Inflator-Deflator-Tool-Only-P747/308746324

For bike and car tires you just program the pressure you want, hook up the hose, and press the button. For big inflatable kids toys and mattresses, the large volume hose on the other side works great. I bought it after I hand pumped a whole kiddie pool then I didn't enjoy playing with my daughter because I was tired and frustrated. I also found myself not going on family bike rides because I had the hassle/excuse of hand pumping and checking pressures and having to align the tires so I could reach the valve on the bike rack. This is just program, top all the tires off, and go.

The presta valve attachment leaves something to be desired for my road bike(always lose some air unscrewing), but the standard valve attachment works perfectly.

BikeFanatic

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #80 on: August 20, 2020, 07:28:02 AM »
Anna I have same problem with creams, even some cetaphil creams, but Cereve cream is amazing hypoallergenic long lasting cream. I was tested for allergies and there are very few lotions that don’t use a preservative that I am allergic to.

BlueHouse

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #81 on: August 20, 2020, 07:43:35 AM »
Every fall and winter, the tire gauges on my car go beserk.  I despise paying for air, so I go to the nearby air base for free air, but it's usually out of order for 2 months every winter. 

This $30 purchase has made my life soooooo much better.


https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07JDH4R7V/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

MaybeBabyMustache

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #82 on: August 20, 2020, 07:57:10 AM »
Thanks to this thread, I've ordered Thinx & the qtip washable alternative. I'm excited to try them both out - saving money & reducing my environmental footprint. Fingers crossed!

Rosy

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #83 on: August 20, 2020, 08:19:58 AM »
1. Elective eye surgery - best investment ever! I can even get away with wearing no glasses at all, although I do wear long distance vision glasses for driving.
But I can read without glasses and see well enough to not have to wear glasses 80% of the time.

2. I have to chime in on the spice and kitchen solutions - during our kitchen renovation I had a big, deep old drawer cut into three specific drawers.
Now I finally have a dedicated spice drawer with a cut-to-fit insert from IKEA. The other two are now dedicated knife drawer and one for rolls/wraps.
It is a thing of beauty to see my spices well organized and off the counter.

The big useless cabinet with one shelf was outfitted with a screw-in, pull-out open metal drawer top and bottom.
Perfect for easy access to my pots and pans - hated to have to practically crawl into the cabinet to find a particular pot.

3. Getting old and forgot numerous times that I put water on for tea - until I could smell the smoke back in the study forgetting the world while reading a book. I even blocked out the timer noise I had set to be sure I wouldn't forget!
After I ruined two good, small pots I started looking for a whistling tea kettle but instead
found those new fangled electric water heaters with automatic shut off - just the ticket.
Love the nice glass carafe and the blue LED light.
Problem solved.

4. Since I cook every day - I have good quality stainless steel frying pans in different sizes and a few kitchen tools I wanted to hang.
With no wall space to hang anything - I decided to use a hallway door that extends into the kitchen.
Visited our local aluminum dealer who carries some fun heavy-duty alu threads - like the stairs threads on trucks and pick-ups.
He cut a piece to fit over more than half the door and we installed a stainless hanger across to hang pans and gadgets - looks very cool.

Ditto on having a cast iron dutch oven - those things last forever. Mine is coated with pretty red enamel so I leave it out on the stove because it is too heavy for me to deal with all the time - it looks good and is always ready for use.

5. One more "best ever" - the kitchen had only a small window placed just high enough that shorty me couldn't quite see out of.
I had it replaced with a new good size window - made the kitchen brighter with more light and I can now enjoy the view of my pretty garden.
Love that!
I did that almost fifteen years ago and I'm still thrilled to have a pretty view instead of feeling imprisoned in a dark cave.

OtherJen

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #84 on: August 20, 2020, 08:28:33 AM »
Thanks to this thread, I've ordered Thinx & the qtip washable alternative. I'm excited to try them both out - saving money & reducing my environmental footprint. Fingers crossed!

I also ordered some of those little washable makeup remover pads. I'm really pleased with them so far. I use them with micellar water and then collect the used ones in the little mesh bag. I toss them in the washing machine with other laundry every week (I remove them from the bag before washing, which is too small to allow effective agitation). I've had them for 4 months and they're holding up well, with no staining.

ysette9

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One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #85 on: August 20, 2020, 01:21:34 PM »
A robovac.

Walking on dirty floors drives me nuts. It's partially liking my house to be clean, but it's mostly a sensory thing. We have all wood floors so my feet feel dust, dirt, etc (the basement carpet being a bit dirty is no problem! Haha).

Sadly our cheap 150$ robovac just died after 18 glorious months. Now to decide on a replacement.
Ah yes! Our Roomba, named “Halsie” by my oldest, is a member of our family. Not only does she clean the floors but she is my baby’s favorite toy/friend.

I got her used on Craigslist so it wasn’t so much of an investment. I would buy another in a heartbeat if/when this one is eventually loved to death by the baby.
« Last Edit: August 20, 2020, 01:24:53 PM by ysette9 »

MaybeBabyMustache

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #86 on: August 20, 2020, 01:24:24 PM »
Thanks to this thread, I've ordered Thinx & the qtip washable alternative. I'm excited to try them both out - saving money & reducing my environmental footprint. Fingers crossed!

I also ordered some of those little washable makeup remover pads. I'm really pleased with them so far. I use them with micellar water and then collect the used ones in the little mesh bag. I toss them in the washing machine with other laundry every week (I remove them from the bag before washing, which is too small to allow effective agitation). I've had them for 4 months and they're holding up well, with no staining.

Awesome! Thanks for the recommendation.

MonkeyJenga

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #87 on: August 20, 2020, 01:28:40 PM »
Oh! PopSockets. When I finally gave up on my crappy, $5 cell phone that fit oh so perfectly in my tiny doll hand, I couldn't find a goddamn replacement small enough for me to both hold *and* use. I bought a set of 3 mini grips, because even the regular size was too big. Just replaced the first one after a year and a half. I spent two days without anything on my phone, and it was MISERABLE. Never again.

PMG

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #88 on: August 20, 2020, 02:11:58 PM »
My smart phone. Maps, banking, writing, art, translator, voice recorder, notes and so on and so forth, I use it like the amazing tool it is.  I was a late adopter, work paid for a flip phone, I wasn’t going to take on the expense myself until I switch jobs, but I sure knew what I was missing and am so glad to have the super handy computer and access to information in my pocket.

Good kitchen gear.  We’re finally living somewhere we think we’ll stay a while, and have a bit more income, so we’re slowly replacing our “make do” kitchen with nicer stuff.  The increased ease and joy is real. Last year I thrifted two cuisinart stainless pans.  They should last forever.  This summer I bought a couple sets of Rubbermaid modular containers for baking ingredients and bulk goods in the kitchen.  They are sturdy plastic, seal tightly, should prevent bugs and waste and the cupboards look so nice! 

Our car!  It’s a 2018 Toyota Yaris we bought used after driving a 2001 Honda CRV to the end of it’s life.  We actually really liked the Honda, but hadn’t realized the stress it added until we replaced it.  It was high mileage and we always had that worry of break down.  How do you know when to stop putting money in to it? Oh that little Toyota is so nice!  We plan to keep it a long time, but we might end up replacing it a littttle sooner than we did with the Honda.  We’ve had it a year and we still regularly comment on how easy it is to drive and park and the great mpg and how it has reduced our worry. 

IslandFiGirl

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #89 on: August 20, 2020, 03:25:12 PM »
The "Easy-on" Costco gutterguards. There was a small tree growing out of our gutters when we moved in.  After cleaning, we paid roofers $300 to install the gutter guards and we have not had to have them cleaned since!

Do you have a link for these?  I think I need this in my life!

Hula Hoop

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #90 on: August 20, 2020, 03:49:52 PM »
All this thinx discussion reminded me of one -my Mirena IUD.  Haven't had a period in several years now.  And as a side effect -no more babies.

A recent one - washable cloth masks with washable inserts.  Also, to take the pressure off my ears some rubberbands and a cheap carabiner to secure my face masks around my head rather than behind my ears when I have to wear a mask for a long period of time.

My electric pressure cooker was also a game changer.

mm1970

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #91 on: August 20, 2020, 06:42:47 PM »
All this thinx discussion reminded me of one -my Mirena IUD.  Haven't had a period in several years now.  And as a side effect -no more babies.

A recent one - washable cloth masks with washable inserts.  Also, to take the pressure off my ears some rubberbands and a cheap carabiner to secure my face masks around my head rather than behind my ears when I have to wear a mask for a long period of time.

My electric pressure cooker was also a game changer.
The thinx discussion made me smile.  At least, my running watch keeps track of my cycle too...it's been 98 days since the last one.  If I'm lucky I'm totally done!!

jpdx

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #92 on: August 20, 2020, 09:33:34 PM »
E-Bike.

All that exertion was getting anoying. Seriously though, it's a game changer.

Poundwise

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #93 on: August 21, 2020, 07:34:27 AM »
The "Easy-on" Costco gutterguards. There was a small tree growing out of our gutters when we moved in.  After cleaning, we paid roofers $300 to install the gutter guards and we have not had to have them cleaned since!

Do you have a link for these?  I think I need this in my life!

https://www.costco.com/easyon-gutterguard-5%E2%80%9D-version---100%E2%80%99.product.100019377.html
Though you should read reviews that mention the kind of trees in your area.  We have oaks/hickories and they are just fine, despite some tassel buildup in the spring. I am not sure how items like pine needles would fare.

I just thought of another buy once item!  We asked for, and received, a steel colander set when we got married.  Decades later, they're still going strong! The plastic ones used to get stained and break. 

Poundwise

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #94 on: August 21, 2020, 07:41:36 AM »
That reminds me, marriage to a compatible, low maintenance (and thrifty) mate can't be beat. Was so sick of the dating game and the drama!  He's a kind of Money Monk (per Money Harmony by Olivia Mellan) but he lets me take care of the finances and all is well.

Metalcat

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #95 on: August 21, 2020, 08:06:00 AM »
Just thought of a few.

Books: they permanently fix that annoyance of not knowing things.

Physio: I just reversed a hip rotation that was caused by my job, and can now walk and bike more without injuring myself

Rotating shredder: I bulk cook a lot of vegetarian dishes and shredding cheese, carrots, or ginger on a box shredder is a tedious task. With the rotating shredder, I can do pounds within 30-60 seconds.

Hatchback: I just got my first hatchback, I don't know what took me so long.

Surefeed pet bowls: programmed to their RFID chips, I never have to worry about managing their eating, special diets, whatever.

HEPA Filter air purifier: so much less dust, such better air quality.

Silk pillowcases: skin and hair are so much nicer with no effort


Kris

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #96 on: August 21, 2020, 08:17:42 AM »
Just thought of a few.

Books: they permanently fix that annoyance of not knowing things.

Physio: I just reversed a hip rotation that was caused by my job, and can now walk and bike more without injuring myself

Rotating shredder: I bulk cook a lot of vegetarian dishes and shredding cheese, carrots, or ginger on a box shredder is a tedious task. With the rotating shredder, I can do pounds within 30-60 seconds.

Hatchback: I just got my first hatchback, I don't know what took me so long.

Surefeed pet bowls: programmed to their RFID chips, I never have to worry about managing their eating, special diets, whatever.

HEPA Filter air purifier: so much less dust, such better air quality.

Silk pillowcases: skin and hair are so much nicer with no effort

Ha! I second the Surefeed bowls and the silk pillowcase.

Sibley

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #97 on: August 21, 2020, 08:27:52 AM »
Just thought of a few.

Books: they permanently fix that annoyance of not knowing things.

Physio: I just reversed a hip rotation that was caused by my job, and can now walk and bike more without injuring myself

Rotating shredder: I bulk cook a lot of vegetarian dishes and shredding cheese, carrots, or ginger on a box shredder is a tedious task. With the rotating shredder, I can do pounds within 30-60 seconds.

Hatchback: I just got my first hatchback, I don't know what took me so long.

Surefeed pet bowls: programmed to their RFID chips, I never have to worry about managing their eating, special diets, whatever.

HEPA Filter air purifier: so much less dust, such better air quality.

Silk pillowcases: skin and hair are so much nicer with no effort

Ha! I second the Surefeed bowls and the silk pillowcase.

I think I'll be looking into those pet bowls. New kitty Rosie appears to be an uncontrolled eat-everything-in-sight cat. I'm hoping that she'll settle down, but in case she doesn't I will need to design a protective custody arrangement for Arwen's food.

Kris

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #98 on: August 21, 2020, 08:31:35 AM »
Just thought of a few.

Books: they permanently fix that annoyance of not knowing things.

Physio: I just reversed a hip rotation that was caused by my job, and can now walk and bike more without injuring myself

Rotating shredder: I bulk cook a lot of vegetarian dishes and shredding cheese, carrots, or ginger on a box shredder is a tedious task. With the rotating shredder, I can do pounds within 30-60 seconds.

Hatchback: I just got my first hatchback, I don't know what took me so long.

Surefeed pet bowls: programmed to their RFID chips, I never have to worry about managing their eating, special diets, whatever.

HEPA Filter air purifier: so much less dust, such better air quality.

Silk pillowcases: skin and hair are so much nicer with no effort

Ha! I second the Surefeed bowls and the silk pillowcase.

I think I'll be looking into those pet bowls. New kitty Rosie appears to be an uncontrolled eat-everything-in-sight cat. I'm hoping that she'll settle down, but in case she doesn't I will need to design a protective custody arrangement for Arwen's food.

One of our cats is on a wet food diet, and the other eats primarily dry food. They, of course, prefer one another's food. Before, we had to lock our wet food kitty away in the bathroom twice a day to feed him. He's more of a grazer, so this was suboptimal. These feeders have been lifesavers.

Rosy

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Re: One-Time Purchases that Permanently Fix an annoyance
« Reply #99 on: August 21, 2020, 08:55:48 AM »
@Malcat - which Rotary Shredder did you buy? Do you need strength and dexterity in your hands to use it?
I like my Mandoline for slicing but the shredding part is a bit tricky to use since my hands don't always cooperate, becomes painful or worse cramp up.

 

Wow, a phone plan for fifteen bucks!