So my toaster started playing music this morning, and I'm confused

I mean, it was just popping bread and then Beethoven's Fifth came on. Idk what triggered it or if my toaster is now sentient.

Can we talk about skipping the press for small notebooks?

Honestly, I think we make bookbinding too hard with all the gear. I bind a lot of thin journals, maybe 50 pages max, and I stopped using a book press months ago. Instead, I just clamp them between two flat boards with some heavy weights on top, like old encyclopedias. The glue sets fine, and the books lie flat when done. I know most folks swear by the press for even pressure, but for these little projects, it feels like extra work. Tbh, it's like when I mix small concrete patches by hand instead of firing up the big mixer, simple gets the job done. Sure, for thick tomes you need the real deal, but for starters or quick gifts, try it my way. Ngl, some binders might call me lazy, but my notebooks hold up just fine.

From doubter to fan after a messy plastic weld experiment

I always thought plastic welding was a gimmick. Tried it on a broken bumper during a slow day. The weld bead bubbled up like a science fair volcano. My boss walked in and burst out laughing. Now I use it regularly and it works great.

Just realized how awkward it is when guests ask for chef's table experiences without booking.

I've noticed more people asking for chef's table visits without any reservation. Last week, a group walked in during our busiest dinner service and demanded to see the kitchen. They didn't book ahead, and we were swamped with prep for a large party. It put the host team in a hard place, trying to say no nicely. This happens a lot now, probably from cooking shows on TV. It's kind of funny how folks think they can just pop in for a tour. How do you deal with these asks without hurting feelings?

Wiring up another EV charger spot today, it struck me how common this has become.