As the housing market continues to adjust, design and community strategy have become drivers of buyer preference, according to Jenni Nichols, vice president of design at John Burns Research and Consulting. In a recent New Home Insights podcast episode, she offered industry professionals a look at what modern buyers value most.
Exterior design
Buyers are increasingly receptive to simplified exteriors that still feel contemporary, with Nichols noting a “noticeable appetite” for modern design elements.It delivers cost savings without sacrificing what today’s buyers are looking for.
She highlights that this doesn’t mean abandoning regional authenticity.
“I would say we’re going to see authentic styles for the regions, and then we’re going to see other styles that come up in popularity like farmhouse, where it catches fire for one reason or another and spreads around the country,” Nichols said.
Inside the home, not all spaces carry equal weight with buyers. Nichols said the kitchen is “one of those places you have to get right.” While buyers may be flexible on exact finishes or materials, they want kitchens that are aesthetically pleasing. They also want plenty of storage and counter space.
Primary bathrooms are also high‑impact. Secondary baths, flooring (such as luxury vinyl plank) and other interior choices offer more flexibility for cost savings without significantly affecting buyer satisfaction.
Affordability and lifestyle preferences are major factors for buyers downsizing and preferring a low-maintenance home, Nichols said.
Density is also gaining traction as land costs rise. Nichols stresses that it’s not about cramming more units in but balancing density with outdoor and community space that enhances livability.
“Great master plans will oftentimes create a denser neighborhood, but then they’ll do things like have a really fantastic park that’s like right next door, two minutes walk away,” Nichols said.
And while kitchens are a hotspot for buyers, when it comes to density, Nichols points out that it still needs to “remain functional.” A kitchen that supports two people cooking, prepping, cleaning and other necessities will win over buyers.
Buyer preferences go beyond just what’s inside the home. According to Nichols, buyers are looking for mixed-used communities that “really give you that walkability and that sense of place.”
She also notes that massive central clubhouses are making their exit, and she is starting to see either two smaller clubhouses or one smaller clubhouse with more flexible use.
Cottage communities, featuring 800-1,200 square feet homes, are becoming a solution for buyers seeking this sense of space.
Adapting to these buyer preferences will be essential for standing out and closing sales in the evolving housing landscape of 2026.
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Color drenching is when you paint everything (walls, trim and doors) the same color, but there are some dos and don’ts of color drenching that you should be aware of.
When we first bought our home I was in love with all of the light. There are windows everywhere and although I knew there were a few changes we wanted to make, first and foremost creating an ensuite on the main floor, I didn’t want to do anything that would lose the light.
And then we built a wall. One thing always turns into another and as we stole space for a kitchen pantry we ended up in need of a half bath on the main floor. So we stole hallway space that was unused and created a powder bathroom.
But let’s get back to color drenching.
DO Color Drench Walls with Picture Frame Moulding
Choosing to color drench a room is a bold new trend that actually helps create a curated and sophisticated look. But, flat paint on flat walls can feel heavy.
✅ Do Color Drenching to highlight architectural details. Adding moulding helps to add depth and character to your room that takes things from boring to curated.
✅ Do Luxe Architectural Moulding to save you time, headache, and money. It is not worth the hassle we went through in our other rooms. We searched high and low for moulding and though online makes it look easy, it was out of stock everywhere. Finally I found Luxe and it was the BEST. DECISION. EVER. The moulding arrived completely ready for each wall with peel and stick capabilities. We had it up and completely ready for paint (for a small powder bath) in less than 30 minutes.
DON’T try to Color Drench Open Layouts
❌ It’s far too difficult to know where to start and stop certain colors, so don’t don’t spaces where one room leads into another.
✅ Do choose to do spaces that are single room spaces like bedrooms, bathrooms, offices and theaters. Walking into a room you couldn’t previously see is a jaw-dropping moment that creates fun and vibrancy in the home.
Do Add Wallpaper
✅ Color drenching and wallpaper are the peanut butter and jelly of the interior design world. Try adding the wallpaper between moulding, choosing an accent wall, or be bold, and do like we did, the ceiling!
We worked with Wallpaper Direct to locate a wallpaper we could not find anywhere and my friend even ended up doing her entire dining room in it! It is stunning and I’ve officially become obsessed with scrolling the site for new ideas. We went with the Pimpernel in Charcoal.
Do Large and Small Spaces
✅ Throw out the opinion that small spaces need light colors. That’s old news and totally not true. Color drenching can be in tiny spaces to large open spaces. It adds a cozy feeling without closing you in. The color we used is Night Train by Benjamin Moore.
Don’t Skip the Door!
❌ Do not leave doors the same as the rest of the house. Color drenching means literally painting everything. But what do you do about the door and the edge of the door? Paint the inside of the door the same color as the room and then pull the door open. If the door enters the room and you see the edge from inside of the drenched room that edge should be the drenched color.
The door edge should always be painted to match the color of the room the door swings into. You don’t want to see the other color when the door is shut AND you want the edge of the door to match the room it’s facing when the door is open! So you also have to look at the edge with the hinge, that color should match the hallway it now faces. Here’s a short video on color drenching doors.
Do Add Small Touches
✅ Do add wood, metals and other touches to break up the paint. We chose to buy these beautiful walnut shelves and then added actual brass railings to make them all the more special. Do not get sucked into the fake stuff online. It will break. It will look plastic or fake and it will not be worth your time and money.
We found theBrass Addict online and have quickly noticed that they are taking off more and more as the number one source for all things brass. In fact, stay tuned as you are going to see it show up in a very important way in another room in our house!!
A Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department employee vacationing in New York City was stabbed inside a Macy’s bathroom while she was changing her 9-month-old daughter’s diaper on Thursday, police said.
The woman and her husband were shopping with their baby in Herald Square before stopping in the West 34th Street Macy’s restroom at 3:15 p.m. A homeless woman identified by police as Kerri Aherne, 43, lunged at the mother inside the bathroom, stabbing her in the back several times and slashing her arm, NYPD Sgt. Kevin Sheehan said.
The woman’s baby was not hurt. The two women did not know each other and there was no prior interaction or dispute, Sheehan said.
The victim’s husband, who was nearby and heard the disturbance, rushed into the restroom and restrained the assailant until officers arrived, Sheehan said. The victim’s husband is also a LASD employee, according to a statement from the department. Their specific roles were not disclosed.
Paramedics took the woman to Bellevue Hospital, where she was treated and is expected to survive, according to Sheehan.
The knife used in the attack was recovered at the scene, police said.
“My thoughts and prayers are with my employees and their family during this very traumatic event,” said Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert G. Luna. “I am grateful that they are safe and receiving the care and support they need. I want to thank the NYPD first responders who acted swiftly to bring the suspect into custody.”
Macy’s confirmed the incident in a statement Friday.
“We are deeply saddened about the incident that took place today, as the safety of our customers and colleagues is our top priority,” a company spokesperson said.
Online furniture stores have completely changed how we shop for our homes – battling with tape measures under fluorescent showroom lighting has been replaced by hours of scrolling and daydreaming from the sofa. Whether you’re after a mid-century dining table, a sculptural accent chair, or a chic storage solution for all that stuff you swore you’d declutter, the digital world is full of design-led options that make creating your dream space surprisingly effortless.
The beauty of shopping online is the access it gives you – to boutique makers you might never stumble across on the high street, to custom pieces that feel really personal, and to interiors inspiration by the bucketload (hello, Pinterest and Insta). There’s confidence in buying furniture online now, too. Many companies have stepped up their game with generous return policies (think brands like Simba and Emma battling it out to offer the longest sleep trials) and free fabric swatches that make it easy to picture how things will work in your home (think big sofa brands like Swyft or Darlings of Chelsea). Plus, with sustainability and craftsmanship becoming bigger priorities, many of the best online furniture stores are as focused on quality and responsible production as they are on aesthetics.
So, whether you’re refreshing one room or starting from scratch in the new pad you’ve just picked up the keys for, these are the names worth bookmarking. From affordable but design-savvy retailers to high-end collections that feel straight out of an interiors mag, the best online furniture stores prove that good design is more accessible than ever. All that’s left to do? Pop the kettle on, open your laptop, and prepare to fall down one very stylish rabbit hole.
SKIP TO:
What are the best online furniture stores in the UK?
Soho Home reigns supreme as one of the most high-end furniture stores in this edit. Stocking design-led pieces inspired by the furnishings inside their iconic properties (think: Soho Farmhouse, Babington or Shoreditch House), everything from the brand’s floor lamps to its chaises are dripping in opulence. The best online furniture store if you have a little more to spend, for sure.
Is it better to buy furniture online?
When it comes to shopping for furniture, you have the option to either visit physical stores or browse online, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Shopping in person allows you to actually see the furniture you’re shopping for, allowing you to gain a better understanding of its quality, materials, and comfort level. However, this method can be time-consuming, and transporting large items home can be challenging. On the other hand, online shopping offers convenience and a wider selection, allowing you to compare prices and styles easily.
When is the best time of year to buy furniture?
In short, it’s worth waiting for Black Friday or Amazon Prime Day to drop. The January sales are another great time to pick up furniture deals, and outside of those, brands like Wayfair and Dunelm run mid-season sales to help you save on big purchases.
What should you consider when shopping for furniture?
When you’re on the hunt for furniture, it’s important to think about a few key things to make sure you end up with pieces that fit your home and lifestyle perfectly. First off, consider how you’ll use the furniture and where it’ll go in your space. Make sure it’s the right size and style to match your existing decor, and take a close look at the materials and construction to ensure durability. Of course, budget matters too, so make sure you check out a range of retailers to find items that strike the right balance between quality and price that works for you.
The best furniture stores at a glance…
How we chose the best online furniture stores
Whether you’re looking for a luxe mattress, an anxiety-reducing weighted blanket, or a stylish wardrobe, our team of editors and contributors at Glamour HQ have attended exclusive press events and rigorously tested products to stay in-the-know of the hottest items in the interior design sphere. We chose the best online furniture stores by looking for standout design features, sustainability credentials, and vast price ranges to suit every budget. We’ve only listed furniture stores that we can personally vouch for, having tested items from the brands in person, spoken to their representatives, and thoroughly evaluated their customer reviews to get an solid idea of what customer’s are saying about each brands homeware offerings.
Why you can trust us
Glamour’s in-house shopping team is committed to helping readers discover the best products across every category we cover, as explained in detail on our how we test page. To ensure our recommendations are accurate and insightful, the team regularly consults with specialists across various interiors categories, gaining a deeper understanding of the products we review and the key features that matter most.
Best for: Modern, handcrafted pieces that blend perfectly with your own personal style and which are made to mirror the look of the numerous Soho Houses around the world.
Pros: Excellent craftsmanship.
Cons: You won’t be able to cash in on the Soho House discount unless you’re a member.
Customers are saying: Great online team and first-class furniture.
When ABC executives told Jimmy Kimmel last month that his show was being pulled off the air, the late-night show’s audience was seated, a guest chef had already started making food, the musical guest had performed a warm-up act, and Kimmel was in the bathroom.”It was about 3:00; we tape our show at 4:30,” Kimmel told Stephen Colbert on an episode of “The Late Show” Tuesday. “I’m in my office, typing away as I usually do. I get a phone call. It’s ABC. They say they want to talk to me. This is unusual: They, as far as I knew, didn’t even know I was doing a show previous to this.”Kimmel said he had five writers in his office at the time, and the only private place where he could take the call was the bathroom.”So I go into the bathroom, and I’m on the phone with the ABC executives. and they say, ‘Listen, we want to take the temperature down. We’re concerned about what you’re going to say tonight, and we decided that the best route is to take the show off the air.’”The audience booed, and Kimmel joked: “That’s what I said: I started booing.””I said, ‘I don’t think that’s a good idea,’ and they said, ‘Well, we think it’s a good idea.’ Then there was a vote, and I lost the vote.”Kimmel said he called some of the show’s executive producers into his office to share the news, and he turned white.”I thought, that’s it. It’s over, it’s over. I was like, I’m never coming back on the air.”Kimmel said the show had to send the seated audience home. Chef Christian Petroni’s prepared meatballs and polenta that he had been cooking before the taping went to waste. Future musical guest Howard Jones, however, taped a song for a future episode: “Things Can Only Get Better,” which Kimmel acknowledged was ironic.ABC suspended Kimmel’s show in mid-September for a few days after a controversial monologue that mentioned Charlie Kirk’s suspected killer – and the right-wing reaction to Kirk’s murder. Two days later, FCC Chair Brendan Carr, on a conservative podcast, threatened to pull ABC affiliate broadcast licenses in response. Then Nexstar — the station group which airs “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” in approximately two dozen markets — announced they would not air the show. Another affiliate, Sinclair, followed suit. And hours later, Kimmel took ABC executives’ call in the bathroom.Kimmel returned to the air the following Tuesday with an emotional monologue — and mega-ratings.Colbert couldn’t get the line outColbert, who also appeared as a guest on Brooklyn taping of “Jimmy Kimmel Live” Tuesday, said he could empathize with Kimmel. The CBS star said executives had made the decision to end his show while Colbert was on vacation. His manager, James Dixon, whom he shares with Kimmel, waited until Colbert returned to share the news.Recounting his desire to tell his audience about the news immediately — despite the fact that “Late Night” is set to run through the spring of 2026 — Colbert told Kimmel that at the end of the following show, he asked his audience to remain in their seats for one more segment. But he had trouble delivering his lines and flubbed the line — twice.”I was so nervous about doing it right, ’cause there was nothing in the prompter. I was just speaking off the cuff,” Colbert said. “They started going, ‘Come on Stephen, you can do it,” because I always messed up on the sentence that told them what was happening. And then I got to the sentence that actually told them what’s happening, and they didn’t laugh.”Although CBS owner Paramount said the cancellation of “The Late Show” was strictly a business decision, many media critics — and Kimmel — questioned that rationale, and some have said it was likely a political decision to appease the Trump administration that needed to approve Paramount’s merger with Skydance.Both Colbert and Kimmel have been frequent and unabashed critics of President Donald Trump and his administration. Trump publicly celebrated when Colbert was canceled, saying in a social media post that Kimmel and NBC’s Seth Meyers were “next.” Trump again celebrated when Kimmel was pulled off the air but criticized — and threatened — ABC when it brought him back on.Meyers made an appearance on Kimmel’s show Tuesday, and the three late night hosts posed for a photograph posted to Instagram. Kimmel added the caption: “Hi Donald!”Kimmel joked with Colbert that Tuesday’s taping was, “The show the FCC doesn’t want you to see.” He introduced Colbert as, “The Emmy-winning late-night talk show host who, thanks to the Trump administration, is now available for a limited-time only.”Kimmel quipped that he was “so honored to be here with my fellow no-talent, late-night loser.” As for the rationale for inviting Colbert onto his program: “We thought it might be a fun way to drive the president nuts.”
CNN —
When ABC executives told Jimmy Kimmel last month that his show was being pulled off the air, the late-night show’s audience was seated, a guest chef had already started making food, the musical guest had performed a warm-up act, and Kimmel was in the bathroom.
“It was about 3:00; we tape our show at 4:30,” Kimmel told Stephen Colbert on an episode of “The Late Show” Tuesday. “I’m in my office, typing away as I usually do. I get a phone call. It’s ABC. They say they want to talk to me. This is unusual: They, as far as I knew, didn’t even know I was doing a show previous to this.”
Kimmel said he had five writers in his office at the time, and the only private place where he could take the call was the bathroom.
“So I go into the bathroom, and I’m on the phone with the ABC executives. and they say, ‘Listen, we want to take the temperature down. We’re concerned about what you’re going to say tonight, and we decided that the best route is to take the show off the air.’”
The audience booed, and Kimmel joked: “That’s what I said: I started booing.”
“I said, ‘I don’t think that’s a good idea,’ and they said, ‘Well, we think it’s a good idea.’ Then there was a vote, and I lost the vote.”
Kimmel said he called some of the show’s executive producers into his office to share the news, and he turned white.
“I thought, that’s it. It’s over, it’s over. I was like, I’m never coming back on the air.”
Kimmel said the show had to send the seated audience home. Chef Christian Petroni’s prepared meatballs and polenta that he had been cooking before the taping went to waste. Future musical guest Howard Jones, however, taped a song for a future episode: “Things Can Only Get Better,” which Kimmel acknowledged was ironic.
ABC suspended Kimmel’s show in mid-September for a few days after a controversial monologue that mentioned Charlie Kirk’s suspected killer – and the right-wing reaction to Kirk’s murder. Two days later, FCC Chair Brendan Carr, on a conservative podcast, threatened to pull ABC affiliate broadcast licenses in response. Then Nexstar — the station group which airs “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” in approximately two dozen markets — announced they would not air the show. Another affiliate, Sinclair, followed suit. And hours later, Kimmel took ABC executives’ call in the bathroom.
Colbert, who also appeared as a guest on Brooklyn taping of “Jimmy Kimmel Live” Tuesday, said he could empathize with Kimmel. The CBS star said executives had made the decision to end his show while Colbert was on vacation. His manager, James Dixon, whom he shares with Kimmel, waited until Colbert returned to share the news.
Recounting his desire to tell his audience about the news immediately — despite the fact that “Late Night” is set to run through the spring of 2026 — Colbert told Kimmel that at the end of the following show, he asked his audience to remain in their seats for one more segment. But he had trouble delivering his lines and flubbed the line — twice.
“I was so nervous about doing it right, ’cause there was nothing in the prompter. I was just speaking off the cuff,” Colbert said. “They started going, ‘Come on Stephen, you can do it,” because I always messed up on the sentence that told them what was happening. And then I got to the sentence that actually told them what’s happening, and they didn’t laugh.”
Although CBS owner Paramount said the cancellation of “The Late Show” was strictly a business decision, many media critics — and Kimmel — questioned that rationale, and some have said it was likely a political decision to appease the Trump administration that needed to approve Paramount’s merger with Skydance.
Both Colbert and Kimmel have been frequent and unabashed critics of President Donald Trump and his administration. Trump publicly celebrated when Colbert was canceled, saying in a social media post that Kimmel and NBC’s Seth Meyers were “next.” Trump again celebrated when Kimmel was pulled off the air but criticized — and threatened — ABC when it brought him back on.
Meyers made an appearance on Kimmel’s show Tuesday, and the three late night hosts posed for a photograph posted to Instagram. Kimmel added the caption: “Hi Donald!”
Kimmel joked with Colbert that Tuesday’s taping was, “The show the FCC doesn’t want you to see.” He introduced Colbert as, “The Emmy-winning late-night talk show host who, thanks to the Trump administration, is now available for a limited-time only.”
Kimmel quipped that he was “so honored to be here with my fellow no-talent, late-night loser.” As for the rationale for inviting Colbert onto his program: “We thought it might be a fun way to drive the president nuts.”
Turns out, finding the best bath towels is more transformative than you’d think. Not in a life-changing kind of way – but suddenly your bathroom feels fresher, softer, and you’ll feel all the more smug for it. After years of limp old cotton towels (one gifted, two stolen from a shared house), I finally upgraded. And honestly? The difference is immediate. Fluffier, yes – but also quicker to dry, better on skin, and far less likely to end up smelling damp after a day on the rail.
The latest generation of towels is anything but basic, swapping standard terry for thoughtful design and elevated comfort. We’re talking rich textures, striking patterns, and generously sized styles that easily pull double duty as beach towels or even impromptu picnic throws. Suddenly, your towel is as much about style as it is about function.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best of the best – from super soft Egyptian cotton sets with that luxurious feel, to quick-drying Turkish cotton towels that actually fit in a small washing load. We’ve looked at everyday hand towels, oversized bath sheets, the fluffiest face cloths, and full bath towel sets that make your airing cupboard look seriously satisfying. There are breathable bamboo blends for sensitive skin, plush spa-worthy picks, and durable designs that hold up in the washing machine week after week.
If you’re wondering what actually makes a towel “good”, it mostly comes down to GSM – that’s grams per square metre for the uninitiated. The higher the number, the heavier (and usually more absorbent) the towel. But it’s not always about weight. We’ve included some lower-GSM styles that are soft, fast-drying and ideal if you’re short on space – or patience.
We also paid attention to the details: how the towels feel after a few washes, whether they fray, how fast they air dry, and whether they actually do their job (you’d be surprised). Style matters too – we’ve got minimalist neutrals, crisp white towels, textured waffle towels, and chic striped numbers that give a full bathroom glow-up.
Essentially, if your current towels are stiff, thin, or making you question your standards – this is your sign. A good quality, absorbent towel isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s a daily upgrade you’ll feel every time you step out of the shower.
Bath towel FAQs, answered:
Meet the experts:
How we test bath towels
At GLAMOUR, we’re all about giving our readers honest, independent, and utterly trustworthy reviews. That means recommending not just the prettiest bath towels, but the ones that actually deliver on comfort, quality, and everyday practicality.
Each bath towel in this edit has been tested for quality, absorbency, size options, drying time and pre- and post-wash softness before being scored out of 10.
Our testers’ looked out for signs of wear, pilling, and snags to ensure we outlined any drawbacks. The result? A selection of high-quality bathroom towels to suit everyone’s needs from hotel-style towels to towels suitable for children.
The debate was heated Thursday night at the Arlington County School Board meeting in Virginia as dozens of speakers lined up to give their thoughts on the school system and its transgender bathroom policy.
The debate was heated Thursday night at the Arlington County School Board meeting in Virginia as dozens of speakers lined up to give their thoughts on the school system and its transgender bathroom policy.
The room was packed and tensions were high from the beginning, including just after the Pledge of Allegiance with the room screaming, “for all, for all.”
The debate comes after Arlington County schools decided to keep its policy allowing students to use bathrooms that align with their gender identity.
Republican candidate for governor of Virginia Winsome Earle-Sears attended and spoke at the meeting.
“Here’s the truth. There are two sexes, boys and girls, and for generations, we’ve understood this, that they deserve their own sports teams, their own locker rooms, their own bathrooms. That’s not discrimination. It is common sense,” Earle-Sears said.
Democratic candidate for Virginia governor Abigail Spanberger said in a statement:
“As a mom of three daughters in Virginia public schools, a former federal law enforcement officer, and a candidate for Governor, Abigail’s priority is ensuring that all of Virginia’s kids are safe and supported. While Abigail’s opponent, Winsome Earle-Sears stokes division and backs the Trump Administration’s threats to strip funding from Virginia schools, as Virginia’s next Governor, Abigail will work to protect public school funding, address the Commonwealth’s chronic teacher shortage, and contend with our last-in-the-nation math recovery ranking. While Winsome Earle-Sears has a decades-long record of trying to defund Virginia’s public schools — and has offered no plan to increase student achievement, Abigail will continue to focus on preparing students for success and bringing Virginia parents to the table.”
Parent Hans Bauman said he supports the school system’s decision as a parent of three students who graduated from APS and a graduate himself.
“Thank you for remembering that we are your constituents. Arlington has long stood for universal values that ensure all communities feel welcome and supported,” Bauman said.
“Supporting the human rights of all students is core to Arlington’s identity, but standing behind those values when tested is not easy.”
Arlington parent Amy Killelea said she’s worried about the impact of the school system potentially losing funding.
“It’s our kids’ education at stake, and there have now been thousands of our Arlington community voices that have publicly asked you to refuse to back down to political theater and pressure our kids are not a political point for Richmond and Washington, D.C. to score.”
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Jennie Marie Mahalick Petrini has a big decision on her hands.
For Petrini, the night of Jan. 7 brought total loss. The Eaton fire decimated her quaint home in the northwest corner of Altadena near Jane’s Village, reducing her sanctuary to a pile of rubble.
“I have a spiritual connection to that house,” she said. “It was the only place I felt safe.”
Now, like thousands of others, she’s crunching the numbers on whether to sell her burned lot and move on, or stay and rebuild.
For many, it makes more sense to sell. Experts estimate a rebuild could take years, and navigating contractors, inspectors and governmental red tape, all while recovering from a traumatic incident, just isn’t worth the effort. It’s the reason why lots are hitting the market daily.
But for Petrini — for reasons both emotional and financial, a melding of head and heart — staying is the only realistic option.
Breaking down the math
Petrini, 47, bought her Altadena home, where she lived with her partner and two daughters, for $705,000 in 2019. Built in 1925, it’s 1,352 square feet with three bedrooms and two bathrooms on a thin lot of just over 5,300 square feet.
She was able to refinance her loan during the pandemic, lowering the interest rate to 2.75% on a $450,000 mortgage. The move brought her mortgage payments from $3,600 down to $3,000 — a relative steal, and only slightly more than the $2,800 rent she has been paying for a Tujunga apartment since the fire.
The property was insured by Farmers, which sprang into action following the fire, sending the first of her payouts on Jan. 8.
Petrini received $380,000 for the dwelling, an extra 20% for extended damage equating to roughly $70,000, and $200,000 for personal property. She used the $200,000 payout to cover living expenses such as a second car, medical bills and a bit of savings, and also tucked away $50,000 to use toward rebuilding.
She estimates that even the thriftiest rebuild will cost around $700,000, and right now, she can cover around $500,000: the $380,000 and $70,000 insurance payouts, plus $50,000 of the personal property payout she stashed for a rebuild.
To cover the extra $200,000, she received a Small Business Administration loan up to $500,000 with an interest rate of 2.65%, which can be used for property renovations. Once she starts pulling from that loan, she estimates she’ll pay around $1,000 per month, which, combined with her $3,000 mortgage, totals roughly $4,000.
It’s a hefty number, but still far cheaper than selling and starting over.
“I could sell the lot for $500,000, take my insurance payout and buy something new, but my house was valued at $1.2 million,” she said. “So even if I put $500,000 down on a new house, to get something similar, I’d have a $700,000 mortgage with a much higher interest rate.”
As it stands, if she cashed out, she’d be renting for the foreseeable future in the midst of a housing crisis where rents rise and some landlords take advantage of tenants, especially in times of crisis. Price gouging skyrocketed as thousands flooded the rental market in January, leading to bidding wars for subaverage homes. To secure her Tujunga rental, Petrini, through her insurance, had to pay 18 months of rent up front — a total of more than $50,000.
“It sounds so lucrative: sell the land, pay off my mortgage and be debt-free. But then my children wouldn’t have a home,” she said.
Bigger than money
Jennie Marie Mahalick Petrini, from left, and her daughters, Marli Petrini, 19, and Camille Petrini, 12, look over the lot where their home stood before the Altadena fire. It was the first time the daughters had looked through the lot.
(Robert Hanashiro / For The Times)
While the math makes sense, Petrini has bigger reasons for staying: she’s emotionally tied to the lot, the community and the people within it.
Altadena is a safe haven for her. She bought her home after escaping a domestic violence situation in 2017. The seller had higher offers, but ended up selling to Petrini after she wrote a letter explaining her circumstances.
It’s also the place where she got sober after abusing stimulants to stay awake and keep things running as a single mom.
“When I was getting sober, I’d go for walks five times a day through the neighborhood,” she said. The trees, the animals, the flowers, the variety of houses. It was — is — a special place.”
Petrini once worked as the executive director of operations at Occidental College, but took a break in 2023 to focus on her children and her health. She and a daughter both have Type 1 diabetes.
Petrini hasn’t been employed since, and her parents helped her pay the mortgage before the fire. She acknowledges that she’s operating from a place of privilege, but said accepting help is crucial when recovering from something.
“Even being unemployed, I just knew I’d be okay here,” she said. “I would trade potting soil to a man who owned a vegan restaurant in exchange for food. You always get what you need here.”
Getting crafty
For Petrini, speed is the name of the game. Experts estimate rebuilding could take somewhere between three and five years or even longer, but she’s hoping to break ground in August and finish by next summer.
In addition to nonprofits, she’s also reaching out to appliances manufacturers and construction companies. The goal is to stitch together a house with whatever’s cheap — or even better, free. She recently received 2,500 square feet of siding from Modern Mill.
“I’m not looking for a custom-built mansion, but I also don’t want an IKEA showroom box house,” she said. “My house was 100 years old, and I want to rebuild something with character.”
To help with costs, she’s also hoping to use Senate Bill 9 to split her lot in half. She’d then sell the other half of the property to her contractor, a friend, for a friendly price of $250,000.
Jennie Marie Mahalick Petrini is diving into the complicated process of staying in Altadena and rebuilding her property.
(Robert Hanashiro / For The Times)
To speed up the process, she’s opting for a “like-for-like” rebuild — structures that mirror whatever they’re replacing. For such projects, L.A. County is expediting permitting timelines to speed up fire recovery.
So Petrini’s new house will be the exact same size as the old one: 1,352 square feet with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. She submitted plans in early June and expects to get approval by the end of the month.
For the design, she turned to Altadena Collective, an organization collaborating with the Foothill Catalog Foundation that’s helping fire victims in Jane’s Village rebuild the English Cottage-style homes for which the neighborhood is known. For customized architectural plans, project management and structural engineering, Petrini paid them $33,000 — roughly half of what she would’ve paid someone else, she said.
“I’m going with whatever’s quickest and most efficient. If we run out of money, who needs drywall,” she said. “I want my house to be the first one rebuilt.”
It doesn’t have to be perfect. Petrini and her daughters have been compiling vision boards of their dream kitchen and bathrooms, but she knows sacrifices will be made.
“It’s gonna be a scavenger hunt to get this done. We’re gonna use any material we can find,” she said. “But it’ll have a story. Just like Altadena.”
Are you keen to give your bathroom a modern facelift? A frameless enclosure for your shower might be just what you need.
These enclosures are all about clean lines, sleek design, and creating an open, airy space. Gone are the days of bulky shower frames that take away from the beauty of your bathroom.
A frameless shower enclosure also adds a touch of elegance, making the space feel larger and more sophisticated. Installing a frameless design instantly modernises your bathroom, providing both functionality and a high-end, luxurious feel. Read on to find out why these enclosures are a game-changer for your bathroom makeover.
The allure of a frameless shower enclosure
Frameless shower enclosures bring modern luxury to any bathroom. With no bulky frames to interrupt the flow, the glass panels create an open, spacious feel. The sleek design is minimalistic yet striking, making the enclosure the centrepiece of your bathroom.
These enclosures don’t just look good: they feel luxurious every time you step inside. The absence of heavy hardware creates a floating effect, while the uninterrupted glass adds a seamless transition between wet and dry areas.
Maximising space and light with frameless designs
One of the best things about frameless shower enclosures is their ability to maximise both space and light. Clear glass panels allow light to flow freely, making even the smallest bathroom feel larger and more open. The absence of a metal frame eliminates visual clutter, keeping your bathroom design smooth and uninterrupted.
It’s a perfect solution for those seeking a more spacious atmosphere. By removing barriers, it also allows your bathroom design to shine through without any obstructions. The enclosure acts almost like an invisible partition, giving the space a light and airy feel.
Choosing the right frameless shower door: hinged or sliding?
When selecting a shower enclosure, the type of door you choose can make a big difference. Hinged doors swing outward, offering a wide entry. Sliding doors save space and are excellent for compact bathrooms.
Both options provide the same sleek look, so it all comes down to the layout of your space and your personal preference. Each design has its own functional and aesthetic appeal. For larger bathrooms, hinged doors provide a more dramatic entrance. Meanwhile, sliding doors offer a more streamlined look for smaller spaces.
Premium glass options for shower enclosures
The type of glass you choose can elevate the entire look of your bathroom. Opt for crystal-clear glass for a minimalist vibe, or choose frosted glass for more privacy while still maintaining a modern aesthetic.
You can also explore tinted or patterned glass for a unique, custom look. Each glass option gives your bathroom a different personality while maintaining that frameless elegance. Tinted glass, for instance, can add a subtle hint of colour. Frosted options, on the other hand, balance privacy with style.
Enhancing bathroom aesthetics with sleek hardware finishes
Hardware might seem like a small detail, but it can make a huge difference in the overall style of your bathroom. Polished chrome, matte black finishes or brushed nickel can all enhance the sleekness of the design.
The right hardware not only complements your bathroom’s existing features but also adds an extra touch of sophistication. Well-chosen finishes can tie together the look of the entire room. Opting for minimal hardware further emphasises the frameless design’s modern appeal.
Easy maintenance and durability of frameless enclosures
Frameless shower enclosures aren’t just beautiful – they’re incredibly easy to maintain. With fewer nooks and crannies where grime can collect, cleaning becomes much simpler. Tempered glass, typically used in these enclosures, is highly durable and resistant to shattering.
It’s a low-maintenance, high-impact solution that stays looking pristine with minimal effort. A simple squeegee can keep the glass sparkling between deep cleans. The smooth surface also resists stains and water spots better than framed designs.
Customisation options for unique bathroom layouts
No two bathrooms are the same, which is why frameless enclosures offer customisable options. Whether your bathroom has an unusual shape or you’re working with limited space, they can be tailored to fit.
You can choose from various glass sizes, hardware finishes, and door styles to create a shower that suits your layout perfectly. Custom options allow you to maximise your space without sacrificing style. From corner installations to expansive walk-ins, there’s a solution for every bathroom.
Eco-friendly benefits of tempered glass shower enclosures
Frameless enclosures made from tempered glass are not only stylish but also eco-friendly. Tempered glass is highly durable and can be recycled, which means it’s a sustainable choice for your home. Its long-lasting nature means you won’t have to replace it as often as other materials.
The durability of tempered glass also translates into fewer repairs, saving resources over time.
Frameless shower enclosures for small bathrooms
For small bathrooms, these structures can make a world of difference. The clean lines and clear glass create the illusion of more space, giving your bathroom a spacious feel.
Without bulky frames, the shower becomes an elegant, unobtrusive feature that enhances the room’s overall look without overpowering it. It also allows other features, like tiles or fixtures, to stand out. The glass practically disappears, helping the room feel less crowded and more organised.
Installation considerations for frameless showers
Installing a frameless enclosure may require some extra thought. The precision involved means you’ll want to hire a professional to ensure everything fits perfectly. Proper installation ensures that the enclosure is watertight and safe, and it can also help prevent potential issues down the road.
The extra care taken during installation pays off in both beauty and functionality. Accurate measurement is key to avoid leaks and ensure stability. For the best results, always consult a specialist.
Tips for buying a frameless shower enclosure online
Shopping for a frameless enclosure online can be easy if you know what to look for. Start by measuring your space carefully and comparing your bathroom’s dimensions with the product specs. Look for high-quality tempered glass and durable hardware.
Check customer reviews for insight into the product’s durability and ease of installation. Be sure to choose a reputable seller to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. Verify warranties and return policies before finalising your purchase. Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to customer support for any clarifications.
A frameless shower enclosure is more than just a functional addition to your bathroom – it’s a statement piece. Its sleek design, durability, and customisable options make it a top choice for anyone looking to create a modern, elegant bathroom space. Whether your bathroom is large or small, frameless enclosures provide a timeless look that enhances the room without overwhelming it.
Designing and building your own home is a rewarding journey that lets you customise every part of your living space, including your dream bathroom. The process takes time and money, but the result is definitely worth it.
A well-thought-out bathroom can be a place of relaxation and renewal. From picking the best floor plan to selecting quality materials, every choice helps create a space that reflects your style. If you’re looking for inspiration, here are some stylish bathroom ideas for new homes.
Get a large walk-in shower
Let’s start with your shower – or showers if you plan on having more than one bathroom in your house. Consider designing a large walk-in shower instead of enclosing a small shower in a corner of the room. They have modern appeal and are convenient and easy to maintain.
Instead of having a door or a curtain, a glass panel is a stylish way to separate your walk-in shower from the rest of your bathroom.
Add a fancy freestanding bathtub
If you, or someone in your family, prefers soaking in the tub to taking long showers, you need a great bathtub on your wish list. A freestanding bathtub will instantly add luxury to your bathroom.
Some freestanding bathtubs have modern, minimalistic looks, while others have sculptural or organic shapes. There’s a range of materials to choose from, including cast iron, copper, fibreglass, and even wood.
Choose a floating vanity
Floating vanities are a great way to save floor space in a small bathroom. However, a floating vanity can make sense even if you want to design a spacious bathroom.
Floating vanities have a modern aesthetic and make a bathroom appear more open. You can install them at the height of your choice, and they will make cleaning your bathroom floor easier. Remember that a floating vanity might offer less storage space than a traditional one.
Install solid brass plumbing fixtures
Don’t ignore the details when designing a stylish bathroom. Be sure to let the plumbers working on your home know you want something other than plain and ordinary plumbing fixtures. A professional service like Birnie Plumbing can help install solid brass fixtures in your new bathroom instead of brass-plated ones.
Solid brass plumbing fixtures can add value to your home because they look gorgeous and are durable. You can choose from different finishes, including stainless steel, bronze, gold, chrome, and matte black. For a more polished look, choose lighting fixtures with the same finish.
Design a wet room layout
Instead of a traditional bathroom, you could ask your plumber to equip your house with a wet room. There are different ways to design wet rooms, but generally, they feature no separation between the shower and the rest of the room. A wet room’s floor, walls, and ceiling are sealed and often tiled so moisture can’t damage them.
A wet room has a modern, minimalist look and is easy to clean.
Choose classic marble
Why design a bathroom with ceramic or porcelain tiles when you can choose marble? This timeless finish can be used on your floor, in your shower, on your countertop, and as a splashback for your vanity.
Marble is durable, versatile, and easy to clean. Plus, it always stays in style. However, it’s a porous material, which means that, if you’re not careful, some bathroom products could stain it.
Go for a monochromatic look
If you like simple but elegant decor schemes, you could opt for a monochromatic look. One simple option is to pick an all-white palette for your new bathroom and add colour to your fixtures or accessories.
You could pick any colour instead of white. Just remember that light colours make a room appear larger, while dark colours can make it appear small and cramped.
Save some space with barn doors
Choosing barn doors instead of regular doors will save you space if you plan to connect your bedroom to an en-suite bathroom. You can customise barn doors to match your decor. You can leave them open when you’re not using the bathroom and slide them shut when you need privacy.
Make a statement with your window
Why not have some fun with your bathroom windows’ shape and size? For example, adding a circular or octagonal window to your bathroom will make a stylish statement. And, of course, by placing your window exactly where you want it to be, you can preserve privacy while enjoying natural light.
Have you used any of these ideas to make your bathroom more stylish?
As we’re currently seeing with AI, when a new technology becomes buzzy, companies will do almost anything to cram that tech into their products. Trends fade, however, and corporate priorities shift—resulting in bricked gadgets and buyer’s remorse.
That’s what’s happening to some who bought Oral-B toothbrushes with Amazon Alexa built in. Oral-B released the Guide for $230 in August 2020 but bricked the ability to set up or reconfigure Alexa on the product this February. As of this writing, the Guide is still available through a third-party Amazon seller.
The Guide toothbrush’s charging base was able to connect to the internet and work like an Alexa speaker that you could speak to and from which Alexa could respond. Owners could “ask to play music, hear the news, check weather, control smart home devices, and even order more brush heads by saying ‘Alexa, order Oral-B brush head replacements,’” per Procter & Gamble’s 2020 announcement.
Oral-B also bragged at the time that, in partnering with Alexa, the Guide ushered in “the truly connected bathroom.”
Oral-B Discontinued App for Setting Up Alexa
On February 15, Oral-B bricked the Guide’s ability to set up Alexa by discontinuing the Oral-B Connect app required to complete the process. Guide owners can still use the Oral-B App for other features; however, the ability to use the charging base like an Alexa smart speaker—a big draw in the product’s announcement and advertising—is seriously limited.
The device should still work with Alexa if users set it up before Oral-B shuttered Connect, but setting up a new Wi-Fi connection or reestablishing a lost one doesn’t work without Connect.
That’s a problem for Patrick Hubley, who learned that Oral-B discontinued Connect when his base inadvertently disconnected from the Wi-Fi and he tried using Connect to fix it. He told Ars Technica that when he tries using the Alexa wake word now, the speaker says, “I’m having trouble connecting to the internet. For help, go to your device’s companion app.”
Hubley attempted but failed to get a refund or replacement brush through Oral-B’s support avenues. He says he will no longer buy Oral-B or Alexa products.
I only purchased this toothbrush from Amazon because that was the only way to get the water-resistant Alexa speaker that I wanted for the bathroom … I’m ready to be done with Alexa and Oral-B both.
Connect no longer works on devices on which it’s already installed. A few users have also stated on Amazon that they can no longer set Guide up to use Alexa. However, the Guide is still available on Amazon as of this writing, with images of its box saying “Alexa built-in” and the product’s title reading “Alexa Built-In” and “Amazon Dash Replenishment Enabled.” The listing is from a third-party seller, but since Oral-B released the Guide exclusively through Amazon, shoppers could easily not realize that Alexa setup is borked.
I reached out to Amazon about this, and spokesperson Connor Rice told me:
The Oral-B Guide still has Alexa built-in and customers can keep using the Alexa experience on devices that were set up through the Oral-B Connect app. The Oral-B Guide is currently sold by an independent seller on Amazon.com. Please contact Oral-B for any further questions about their app.
Oral-B’s Response
Oral-B discontinued the Guide about two years ago and now only has one mobile app, called Oral-B. If a toothbrush brand is going to have any apps at all, one seems like the maximum reasonable number. It’s unclear why Alexa capabilities weren’t integrated into the still-standing Oral-B app.
When I reached out to Procter & Gamble, a company spokesperson said:
You’ve probably heard that few things in life are certain except death and taxes, but we’d like to add something else to the list: cleaning up in the bathroom.
So, since we have to do it, what’s the best technique?
The preferred method of wiping “is not wiping,” nationally renowned anal surgeon Dr. Evan Goldstein told us — Raj Punjabi and Noah Michelson, co-hosts of HuffPost’s “Am I Doing It Wrong?” podcast — when we recently chatted with him.
“When you’re looking at someone’s [anus], to the left and the right are these wrinkles ― it’s like an accordion. It opens. It closes,” said Goldstein, who is also the CEO and founder of Bespoke Surgical.
“The front and the back ― towards the vagina, towards the penis and testicle area, or the tailbone, the skin there is not wrinkled. It’s very thin. When we wipe, where do we wipe? Usually front to back — thin skin! We all wipe so much, so what happens over time? People tear the skin. It gets irritated. It gets angry at us.”
Instead of wiping, Goldstein suggested cleaning the area without toilet paper. “I’m a huge bidet [fan],” he told us, because it can thoroughly wash the anus without harming it. He also recommended a quick shower or rinse if you don’t own a bidet. “You always want to make sure you’re drying yourself,” he added, because moisture in that area can cause irritation.
This is one of the reasons why he is firmly anti-wet wipes.
“They are so terrible — not only for the environment, but for your hole,” he said. “There’s so many companies out there throwing wipes and I think they should all be banned. I see 90 people a week [in my surgical office], and I would say one-third of all the people coming through are coming in from wet wipe-induced issues.”
That’s because using them can change the microbiome of that area of the body.
“Think about it — we have good bacteria, we have bad bacteria, but they are in homeostasis. They are in equilibrium. Wet wipes fuck that in a really bad way,” Goldstein said. “I see ridiculous dermatitis [in my patients] … bacterial infections. … Now that you’ve messed up that microbiome, it’s causing so many problems.”
If you are going to wipe using toilet paper, he recommended more of a “blot” than a wipe and doing it in a “standing squat,” because there’s less blood flowing to that part of the body when you’re standing. And that means less potentially problem-causing pressure on the delicate area.
“The longer you’re sitting on the bowl, the more blood [down there], the more wiping, the more irritation. The body senses that,” Goldstein said. Instead, we want to get vertical again as soon as possible to relieve that pressure. “So, you poop, wipe once or twice [while seated], finish standing up. Why? The blood starts to leave [when you stand up]. The mechanism starts to go back to the normal, daily [position],” Goldstein said.
“There are some people that it’s harder [to wipe] when they’re standing,” he noted. “They don’t feel like they’re getting the full hole. … But we don’t need to go all up in there. If you are going all up in there, we need to go back to diet and fiber and pre- and probiotics, and thinking about better strategies. I always say, ‘It’s not butt health; it’s gut health.’ If you have gut health, you will automatically have butt health.”
Goldstein also chatted with us about why squatting is the best position for pooping, what a perfect poop should look like and much more:
Need some help with something you’ve been doing wrong? Email us at AmIDoingItWrong@HuffPost.com, and we might investigate the topic in an upcoming episode.
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While a key, function part of the home, like the kitchen, the bathroom is also a key point for alone and de-stress time. A study of 2,000 adults found 42 per cent often escape to the bathroom for a bit of peace and quiet away from the rest of their household. It is such a happy place 55% regularly have an extra-long bath or shower so they can have more time to themselves.
But not everyone can indulge in redoing a bathroom and making it into something spectacular, so here are some easy hacks to transform your bathroom into a spa.
Change Your Shower Head
A good shower head can change your life, and if you’ve never changed yours then you’ll surely appreciate this tip. Changing shower heads is very simple so you can do it yourself, and there are a few cheap (good) shower heads that you can buy online or at your nearest hardware store.
This $20 rain shower head is great if you’re using the default shower head that came with your bathroom. If you want to get a bit crazier and splurge, you can purchase this shower head for $50 that changes lights, regulates water temperature, and will make you feel like you’re showering in space.
Oil Diffusers And Candles
A candle is a really important item for your bathroom, making it smell good and providing coziness and warmth. Oil diffusers are also great and less flammable, making you feel like you own and manage a really great spa. Both of these items are easy to purchase and really make a difference in the mood and feel of your bathroom.
Clear Toiletry Clutter
There’s nothing more stressful than a ton of toothpaste, pads, hairbrushes and lotions all piled up together because you can’t find a place to put them. Invest in jars and other containers that look good and that will keep things organized. Mason jars are a classic and cheap option for Q-tips, cotton balls, and other loose items. Be sure to get rid of the toiletries and empty bottles of product that are cluttering your bathroom in the meantime.
Bath Salts And Scented Soaps
Bath salts are great and super relaxing, doing wonders for your skin and making you feel like you’re doing a good thing by spending time in your bathroom. While baths are time consuming and annoying (since you have to scrub your bathtub clean before you use it), they can be a pretty delicious experience with the right tools.
Buy a waterproof speaker for your bathroom and make yourself a playlist with natural sounds, such as rain, water, and anything else that you might find relaxing. Having this speaker will surely make your baths and showers more fun and enjoyable, while also making you feel rejuvenated, as if you spent some time doing something productive. Yay, you!
MIAMI—Insisting that the patron had done such a good job that he deserved a reward, bathroom attendant Ron Carlton reportedly offered a 39-year-old customer a sticker at the Fitzmorris Steakhouse Friday for using the potty all on his own. “Ah, the gentleman has been a very big boy and earned himself a sticker of his choosing,” said the attendant, opening a leather briefcase to allow the adult patron to peruse several sheets of sparkly stickers featuring Barney, construction vehicles, and colorful stars. “I put on the potty music, but I should have known a fellow of your refinement wouldn’t need it. Quite impressive. And if I may say so, sir, I must commend you on getting most of it into the toilet. Now choose wisely, and remember that if you get four more of these, I’ll let you watch an episode of Paw Patrol.” At press time, the bathroom attendant was singing the alphabet song for the patron to ensure he took enough time washing his hands.
Potty training – it just might be one of the most challenging things for parents. There are so many things that factor into the success and timeline of potty training, from whether your child is actually ready to carrying it through until there are no more accidents at all, even at night. It can be a long process – but now, with families at home more than ever, it’s the perfect time to conquer this milestone. Use these 4 potty training tips that will save your sanity.
– Make the potty as accessible as possible. Yes, it’s great to have one in the bathroom so your little one can mimic mommy and daddy on the toilet. But kids who are learning to potty train also don’t recognize the urge until the very last-minute, and getting to the bathroom on time could be a huge challenge. It may not be the decor accent of choice, but a potty in common rooms like the living room or kitchen could also help things along.
– Let accidents happen. Yes, the cleanups are awful. And I know all about changing sheets in the middle of the night. But the more that you child is out of diapers and accurately feeling what’s going on down there (wet underwear or bedding), they won’t feel the true discomfort of it and, hence, want to use the toilet. (Quick tip: If nighttime bed-wetting is a problem, layer sheet, plastic sheet, sheet, so you already have another dry later ready to go.)
– Have a reward system in place. Bribery may not be the best parenting route for other lessons, but when it comes to potty training, you want to do anything that works. What’s your child’s sweet spot? Smarties? Doritos? Keep them handy and in sight but out of reach. ONLY give them out with a successful number one or two in the potty.
– Make it fun. No- it’s not fun for you. I get it. But when it’s more fun for them, they’ll be more inclined to get into it. Let them help you choose a potty. Decorate it with stickers. If you’re training with a toilet, there are decals you can affix to the bottom of the bowl for boys’ “target practice,” as well as flushable floating targets (my mom used Cheerios with my brother). And pick out new big-boy or big-girl underwear together.
Melany xx
Married with three kids, MList’s Melany is a jack-of-all-trades. Not only is she a hardworking mom but she’s a serial saver (she loves her MList Card!), she loves to cook, she is very spiritual, and she is very organized. She is also chronically busy. Get her take on what to see, do and buy in Montreal and beyond.
Austin was a very different city for vulnerable companion animals just 14 years ago. Some of the animals most at risk were puppies with parvovirus. Each day these tiny lives were needlessly lost because shelters didn’t have programs set up to treat parvo.
Veterinarians learn how to treat parvo in school, so we wondered why animal shelters couldn’t or wouldn’t. If these puppies could often be saved, why wasn’t treatment the norm? To
save these pets and increase lifesaving in Austin, we had to start
somewhere — and keeping parvo puppies from being euthanized seemed like a
good place to start.
The Parvo Puppy ICU, as we know it today, was born in a bathroom in my house around Thanksgiving 2008. At its peak I could spend up to eight hours a day cleaning and treating anywhere from a couple to 25 sick puppies at a time. Thankfully,
my husband was very understanding and willing to put up with the smell
of sick puppies in our bathroom. Even though it wasn’t ideal having the
strong and unforgettable odor of parvo in our home, it was the only way
to protect these pets in need and give them the critical care they
deserved.
We often share the story of the ICU’s humble beginnings because it
reminds us how far we’ve come. Although I was often the only one
cleaning up after that first batch of puppies, APA!’s capacity to care for animals in need continues to grow thanks to the help of friends like you.
Because of our community’s determination to make Austin No Kill, we were able, eleven years ago, to trade the bathroom tile and pop-up crates for linoleum and metal kennels in a location with easy access to our clinic and round-the-clock staff. The need for support didn’t end when we moved to the Parvo Puppy ICU at TLAC.
Today, parvo puppies are still at risk of needless euthanasia in shelters across Texas that haven’t yet adopted No Kill. As we celebrate the 11th anniversary of No Kill in Austin and its continued impact on pets at high risk of euthanasia we know there is still so much work to do to save even more lives and help other shelters do the same. Will you join us today?
MELISSA, Texas, April 23, 2019 (Newswire.com)
– Buc-ee’s, which prides itself on being clean, friendly and in stock, is excited to announce the grand opening of its 36th location in Melissa, Texas, on April 29, 2019, at 6 a.m. This newest travel center is located at 1550 Central Expressway (U.S. 75), Melissa, Texas 77454. This new Melissa location will offer Buc-ee’s famous Texas Round Up®barbeque, a vast selection of beef jerky, numerous flavors of homemade fudge and, of course, Beaver Nuggets. With over 50,000 square feet of space, many fueling positions and plenty of restrooms, the destination pit stop has plenty of room for both new and old Beaver fans. A special ribbon-cutting ceremony will be taking place at 10 a.m. on Monday.
About Buc-ee’s
Founded in 1982, Buc-ee’s has 36 convenience stores and travel centers in Texas and Alabama. The company also operates the largest convenience store in the world, located in New Braunfels, Texas. The New Braunfels Travel Center covers 68,000 square feet and features 120 fueling positions, 83 toilets, 31 cash registers, four Icee machines and 80 fountain dispensers. Buc-ee’s is based in Lake Jackson, also home to the company’s first convenience store, which is still in operation. For more information, visit https://www.buc-ees.com.
Media Contact: Jeff Nadalo Phone: (346) 774-2260 Email: jeff@buc-ees.com
