April 30, 2025

Why Don’t People Become Preppers & Store Food, Water, Batteries, etc.

Most people don’t become preppers or store food, water, and batteries for a few key reasons:

Normalcy Bias
      • They assume life will continue as usual and that disasters or disruptions are unlikely to affect them personally.
      • This bias makes it hard to imagine a future where basic services are unavailable.
Trust in Systems
      • Many people trust that the government, utility companies, and grocery stores will always provide what’s needed.
      • They expect that if something goes wrong, help will arrive quickly.
Limited Space or Budget
      • Some don’t have room to store large quantities of supplies or feel they can’t afford to stock up.
      • Prepping is often viewed as a luxury or only for those with extra resources.
Procrastination or Discomfort
      • Preparing for disaster forces people to confront uncomfortable “what if” scenarios.
      • It’s easy to put off prepping in favor of more immediate concerns.

Social Stigma

      • “Preppers” are sometimes portrayed as paranoid or fringe.
      • People may avoid prepping to not seem overly cautious or alarmist.
Lack of Awareness or Knowledge
      • Many simply don’t know how fragile supply chains are or how quickly emergencies can escalate.
      • They may not realize how little it takes to be better prepared.

If this does NOT sound like you, please give us a call to help you hide all of the provisions from all of those people who do not.

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William Thomas0 commentEconomics, Uncategorized
April 29, 2025

The True Annual Cost of Maintaining a Home in Mckinney, Tx

​The annual cost of maintaining a single-family home in McKinney, TX, can vary based on the home’s size, age, and specific needs. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses to help you estimate your yearly budget:​

🛠️ General Maintenance & Repairs

        • Routine Maintenance & Repairs: It’s advisable to budget 1% to 2% of your home’s value annually for maintenance and repairs. For a $400,000 home, this equates to $4,000 to $8,000 per year. ​Mattwatson.com

        • Handyman Services: Hourly rates range from $40 to $70, with a 4-hour job typically costing $150 to $280, excluding materials. ​HomeBlue+1HomeBlue+1

        • HVAC Maintenance: Annual servicing costs average $353, with a range between $96 and $823, depending on the system’s complexity. ​Manta

        • Home Inspections: Periodic inspections can help identify potential issues early. Costs range from $250 to $570, based on the home’s size. ​HomeBlue

🧹 Housekeeping & Cleaning

        • Professional Cleaning Services: Rates average $20.43 per hour, with monthly costs around $2,656 for 130 hours of service. ​City-Data+3Care.com+3McKinney, TX+3

        • Per-Cleaning Session: Depending on your home’s size, a single cleaning session can cost between $115 and $325. ​Janitorial Service Bids

💡 Utilities & City Services

        • Water, Sewer, Trash, and Drainage: Monthly charges include:

            • Water: Base rate of $19.05, plus consumption charges.

            • Sewer: Base rate of $26.75, plus usage fees.

            • Trash & Recycling: Flat fee of $19.75.

            • Drainage: Monthly fee of $4.50. ​Care.com+2McKinney, TX+2Mattwatson.com+2

        • Electricity: Costs vary based on usage and home size. For larger homes (e.g., 4,700 sq ft), summer electric bills can reach $600 or more. ​City-Data

🏡 Homeowners Insurance & HOA Fees

        • Homeowners Insurance: Annual premiums average $1,443, varying with home value and coverage levels. ​Plan for Freedom

        • HOA Fees: If applicable, fees can range from $50 to $500 per month, depending on community amenities and services. ​Mattwatson.com

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William Thomas0 commentEconomics, Uncategorized
April 20, 2025

Classicism vs Post-Modern Panel Molding Styles

Below are lists of attributes between the Classicism and Post-Modern Panel Molding Styles.  Neither style is better than the other, they are just different.

🏛️ Classicism Panels Moldings

Element Description
Design Logic Symmetry, proportion, hierarchy based on Classical Orders (Doric, Ionic, Corinthian)
Panel Shapes Rectangles, squares; aligned in grids or wainscoting layouts
Trim Profile Ornate and detailed: ogee, cavetto, egg-and-dart, fluting
Scale & Proportion Follows Golden Ratio; often tall and vertically oriented
Color Palette White, cream, soft pastels, or historical hues (olive, ochre, Pompeii red)
Vibe Formal, timeless, structured elegance
Ideal Room Types Dining rooms, libraries, formal sitting rooms, grand foyers
Client Appeal Traditionalists, luxury buyers, history lovers, high-end renovations

🟦 Post Modern Panel Moldings

Element Description
Design Logic Asymmetry, minimalism, visual rhythm or abstraction
Panel Shapes Triangles, trapezoids, sharp diagonals, intersecting lines
Trim Profile Flat or subtly beveled; clean edges with sharp corners
Scale & Proportion Bold contrasts and modular layouts, not bound to historic ratios
Color Palette Deep tones (navy, charcoal, black), or monochrome feature walls
Vibe Edgy, architectural, expressive, avant-garde
Ideal Room Types Living rooms, offices, staircases, bedrooms with statement walls
Client Appeal Design-forward homeowners, creatives, young professionals, modern remodels

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William Thomas0 commentCarpentry, Design, Remodeling, Uncategorized
April 7, 2025

Theoretical Origins of The Classical Orders

The classical orders of architecture—Doric, Ionic, Corinthian (and later Tuscan and Composite)—have both practical and theoretical origins that trace back to ancient Greece and Rome. These orders aren’t just styles; they’re systems based on proportion, function, and cultural meaning. Here’s a breakdown of their theoretical origins:
Mythological and Symbolic Origins

Classical authors, especially Vitruvius, associated each order with symbolic human characteristics:

          • Doric: Masculine, strong, and simple. Vitruvius believed it was inspired by the proportions of a man—solid and muscular.

          • Ionic: Feminine and graceful. Modeled after the form of a woman, with volutes (scrolls) representing curls of hair.

          • Corinthian: Virgin maiden. The most ornate, said to be inspired by a basket left on a young girl’s grave, around which acanthus leaves grew.

These symbolic interpretations provided narrative justification for their form and use.

Functional and Structural Origins

 

The orders evolved from wooden post-and-lintel construction:

          • Early temples were built in timber. Over time, the structural elements (columns, capitals, entablatures) were translated into stone while preserving their original purpose and visual form.

          • For example, triglyphs in the Doric frieze may represent wooden beam ends, and mutules mimic projecting rafters.

Mathematical and Proportional Systems

 

Greek architects developed codified systems of proportion based on the human body (an idea later echoed by Renaissance architects like Alberti and Palladio). These proportions governed:

          • Column height to diameter ratios

          • Spacing between columns

          • Proportions between base, shaft, capital, entablature, and so on

Each order had its own ruleset, reflecting both aesthetic ideals and functional logic.

Philosophical and Aesthetic Foundations

 

In Greek philosophy, especially Platonism and Pythagoreanism, beauty was seen as emerging from harmony, order, and proportion—concepts which heavily influenced classical architecture.

          • Architecture wasn’t just about building; it was a reflection of cosmic order.

          • The classical orders were tools to express that harmony in built form.

Cultural and Political Expression

 

Each order also carried associative meaning:

          • Doric was used in temples to male gods (like Zeus) and conveyed strength.

          • Ionic was more elegant, used in temples to goddesses (like Artemis).

          • Corinthian, being lavish, became popular in Roman civic buildings, symbolizing wealth and power.

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William Thomas0 commentCarpentry, Design, Remodeling, Uncategorized
April 7, 2025

Origins of Classical Interior and Exterior Trim Moldings

The roots of interior trim come from Classical Architecture, particularly from Ancient Greece and Rome. The systems and proportions they used—called the Classical Orders—laid the groundwork for much of Western architecture, including how we detail and finish interiors today.

1. Classical Orders → Interior Trim

          • The Classical Orders (Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, Tuscan, Composite) were originally systems for designing columns, entablatures, and temple facades.

          • These architectural systems were all about proportion, balance, and hierarchy.

          • Over time, these exterior principles were adapted for interior use—particularly during the Renaissance, Georgian, and Neoclassical periods.

2. Trim Becomes Scaled-Down Architecture

          • Crown molding = inspired by the cornice of an entablature.

          • Chair rail / picture rail = mimic architraves or horizontal divisions.

          • Wainscoting = adapted from the lower sections of classical walls.

          • Casing = echoes the pilasters or columns around doorways.

          • Baseboards = represent the plinth or base of a classical column or wall.

3, Why It Mattered

          • These elements weren’t just decorative — they communicated a sense of order, refinement, and structure.

          • Even in modern interiors, classical trim adds depth, rhythm, and proportion to a space.

Today, many trim profiles still follow these classical principles, even if they’re simplified or modernized. So when you’re installing crown or building out a coffered ceiling, you’re actually continuing a tradition that goes back over 4,800 years.

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William Thomas1 CommentCarpentry, Custom Doors, Design, Uncategorized
April 6, 2025

Why Woman Like to Drink Wine

Women enjoy drinking wine for a variety of social, cultural, psychological, and even biological reasons. While preferences vary from person to person, here are some common reasons why many women are drawn to wine:

1. Social & Cultural Appeal 🍷

          • Wine is often a social drink, making it a staple at gatherings, dinners, and celebrations.
          • Many women associate wine with quality time with friends, whether it’s a girls’ night out, brunch, or a quiet evening at home.
          • It’s often portrayed in media as a relaxing, sophisticated, or indulgent choice, reinforcing its appeal.

2. Relaxation & Stress Relief 🧘‍♀️

          • Wine contains compounds like resveratrol that can have calming effects.
          • Many women enjoy a glass after work or before bed to unwind and de-stress.
          • Unlike hard liquor, wine is often consumed slowly, making it feel more like an experience than just a drink.

3. Taste & Variety 🍇

          • Women tend to have more sensitive palates, making them enjoy the rich flavors, aromas, and textures of wine.
          • Wine offers a huge variety (red, white, rosé, sparkling, sweet, dry), making it easy to find something that matches individual preferences.
          • Many women enjoy the pairing experience—finding wines that complement different foods.

4. Perceived Health Benefits ❤️

          • Some believe that moderate wine consumption (especially red wine) can:
              • Support heart health due to antioxidants.
              • Reduce stress and inflammation.
              • Improve digestion when paired with meals.
          • While overconsumption is unhealthy, some women see a glass of wine as a “healthier” alcohol choice compared to beer or hard liquor.

5. Wine Feels More Elegant & Feminine 🍾

          • Compared to beer or whiskey, wine is often marketed as a sophisticated and feminine choice.
          • The ritual of drinking wine—swirling, sniffing, sipping—feels refined and enjoyable.

6. The Emotional & Psychological Connection 💆‍♀️

          • Wine is often tied to self-care and relaxation, whether it’s a bubble bath, a book, or a cozy night in.
          • Many women see wine time as “me-time”, allowing them to disconnect from daily stress.

7. It’s a “Safe” Alcohol Choice 🚫🍻

          • Some women prefer wine because:
              • It’s less intense than liquor.
              • It’s socially acceptable in more settings (dinners, work events, casual hangouts).
              • It’s easier to control intake (sipping vs. taking shots).

8. Wine Is a Shared Experience 🥂

            • Wine brings people together—whether it’s wine-tasting, vineyard visits, or simply sharing a bottle at dinner.
            • Many women enjoy discussing flavors, brands, and new discoveries with friends.

So, Why Do Women Like Wine?

It’s a combination of social, sensory, and psychological factors—from the ritual of drinking to the way it makes them feel. Wine is not just a beverage; for many women, it’s an experience, a lifestyle, and a way to connect with others.

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William Thomas0 commentEconomics, Uncategorized, Wine Cellars
March 22, 2025

US Medium Home Remodeling Expenditure

​In 2025, home remodeling expenditures in the United States are projected to experience modest growth, influenced by various economic factors and homeowner preferences. Here’s an overview:​

National Remodeling Expenditures

      • Total Spending: Annual expenditures for improvements and maintenance to owner-occupied homes are expected to grow at a mild pace throughout 2025, reaching an annual rate of $477 billion by mid-year, approaching the previous record of $487 billion. ​wsj.com+2jchs.harvard.edu+2jchs.harvard.edu+2

      • Median Project Costs: The median spending on home renovations has increased by 60% since 2015, with high-end renovations nearly doubling to $150,000. ​axios.com

Factors Influencing Remodeling Expenditures

      • Home Equity: Homeowners have amassed significant home equity, with estimates suggesting an average of about $400,000 per homeowner. This substantial equity provides a financial resource for funding renovation projects. ​investopedia.com+1wsj.com+1

      • Interest Rates: As borrowing costs decrease, analysts and building-products executives predict a resurgence in home renovation spending in 2025. ​wsj.com

      • Aging Housing Stock: The median age of U.S. homes has reached 41 years, the oldest in history, leading to increased demand for updates and renovations. ​wsj.com

Regional Variations

      • High-Spending Regions: Fast-growing areas in Utah, Idaho, Colorado, Washington, and Oregon have seen higher investments in home improvements, with Utah residents leading at 17.0 loans per 1,000 homeowners. ​constructioncoverage.com

      • Lower-Spending Regions: States like Louisiana have lower home improvement loan origination rates, with just 2.1 loans per 1,000 homeowners. ​constructioncoverage.com

Popular Remodeling Projects and Costs

      • Kitchen Remodels: A top home improvement project, with homeowners spending a median of $60,000. ​realsimple.com

      • Bathroom Renovations: Average around $12,100, with trends leaning towards spa-inspired designs. ​Americas General Contracting

      • Smart Technology Integrations: Incorporating smart home features has become standard, focusing on security and automation. ​Americas General Contracting

Recommendations for Homeowners

      • Budgeting: Allocate funds based on the scope of the project, considering both immediate needs and potential return on investment.​

      • Professional Consultation: Engage with reputable contractors to obtain accurate estimates and ensure quality workmanship.​

      • Financing Options: Explore home equity loans or lines of credit, especially given the substantial equity many homeowners currently possess.​investopedia.com

By staying informed about current trends and economic factors, homeowners can make strategic decisions that enhance their living spaces and potentially increase property value.

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William Thomas0 commentUncategorized
March 22, 2025

Why Jewelry Needs Hidden Room For Security

Jewelry needs home security because it is high in value, small, and easy to steal. Here’s why securing your jewelry at home is essential:

High Risk of Theft
      • Jewelry is a top target for burglars since it’s small, valuable, and easy to resell.
      • Thieves often look for high-end items in affluent homes.
Investment & Sentimental Value
      • Many pieces appreciate in value (e.g., gold, diamonds, luxury watches).
      • Family heirlooms and custom pieces are irreplaceable.
Insurance Requirements
      • Home insurance often requires proper security (safes, alarms) for coverage.
      • Without security measures, claims may be denied.
Protection from Fire & Environmental Damage
      • Jewelry can be damaged by fire, moisture, and even air pollutants.
      • Fireproof, humidity-controlled safes help preserve them.
Avoiding Everyday Loss & Misplacement
      • A designated secure storage system prevents accidental loss.
      • Helps with organization and quick access to valuable pieces.
Best Home Security Measures for Jewelry:

✔ High-Security Safe – Fireproof, burglary-resistant, and hidden.
✔ Alarm Systems & Motion Sensors – Alert you to unauthorized access.
✔ Surveillance Cameras – Monitor storage areas and deter thieves.
✔ Smart Locks & Access Control – Restrict access to jewelry rooms.
✔ Inventory Documentation – Keep records with photos and appraisals.

 

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William Thomas0 commentUncategorized
March 22, 2025

Why Do Men Get Blamed For Martial Issues

Men often get blamed for marital issues due to a combination of societal expectations, traditional gender roles, and communication differences. However, it’s important to recognize that both partners contribute to relationship dynamics, and blame is often a reflection of deeper issues rather than actual fault. Here are some key reasons why men may be more frequently blamed:

Societal Expectations & Gender Roles
      • Men are often expected to be providers, problem-solvers, and emotionally stable, leading to frustration if they are perceived as failing in these roles.
      • Traditional gender norms can lead to the assumption that men are less emotionally available, which may result in blame when emotional needs are not met.
Emotional Communication Differences
      • Studies suggest that men and women communicate differently, with men sometimes being less expressive about emotions.
      • Women, on average, seek emotional connection through verbal communication, and when men struggle to express feelings, it can lead to frustration and blame.
Division of Household & Parenting Responsibilities
      • Even in modern relationships, many women report feeling like they handle a larger share of emotional and domestic labor (e.g., planning events, childcare, household tasks).
      • When responsibilities feel unbalanced, the partner perceived as “doing less” (often the man) may be blamed.
Conflict Resolution Styles
      • Research suggests that men are more likely to withdraw or avoid conflict, whereas women often prefer to talk things out.
      • This difference in handling disputes can make it seem like men are dismissing problems, leading to frustration and blame.
Media & Cultural Influence
      • Pop culture often portrays men as the ones who “mess up” in relationships, reinforcing stereotypes.
      • Marriage advice often focuses on what men need to do better, while placing less emphasis on mutual responsibility.
Misinterpretation of Intentions
      • Men may show love through actions rather than words, which might not always align with their partner’s expectations.
      • This disconnect can lead to feelings of neglect or misunderstanding, with men getting blamed for not being “attentive” enough.
How to Address This Issue?
      • Mutual Responsibility: Recognizing that both partners play a role in marital dynamics helps shift the focus from blame to solutions.
      • Better Communication: Encouraging open dialogue about needs, emotions, and expectations can reduce misunderstandings.
      • Challenging Stereotypes: Understanding that emotional expression and domestic responsibilities are not gendered can help create balance.

While men may be blamed more often, the key is to move past blame and work toward understanding, accountability, and partnership in a relationship. Would you like strategies on how to navigate blame in a marriage effectively?

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William Thomas0 commentPets, Uncategorized
hidden entrance, murphy doors, jib doors
March 20, 2025

Why Invest in Your Home During Deflationary Times?

In a deflationary economy, where prices decline and purchasing power increases, many homeowners hesitate to invest in renovations. However, this can actually be one of the best times to upgrade your home—especially for high-value, long-term projects. Here’s why:

Lower Material & Labor Costs

📉 Deflation means lower prices on goods and services.

          • Building materials like wood, metal, and fixtures may cost less during deflationary periods.
          • Contractors and skilled labor may offer better rates due to lower demand.
          • Your money stretches further, allowing you to complete projects at a discounted cost.

Example: A custom-built wine cellar, hidden room, or luxury home upgrade may be more affordable than during inflationary times.

Higher Home Value When the Market Rebounds

🏡 Renovating now positions your home for future appreciation.

          • Property values tend to rise again after deflation, meaning upgrades done now increase home value for resale.
          • High-end features like wine cellars, hidden rooms, or custom carpentry make your home stand out in the market.
          • Buyers are drawn to move-in-ready, upgraded homes—especially in luxury markets.

Example: A well-integrated wine cellar or gun room can boost resale appeal, making your home more competitive when demand rises again.

Opportunity for Luxury Upgrades at a Discount

💰 Deflation is the best time to invest in premium features.

          • Many luxury home features—like custom cabinetry, climate-controlled storage, and specialty woodwork—become more accessible due to lower material and labor costs.
          • If you’ve considered a hidden room, wine cellar, or high-end renovation, now is the time to get more for your money.

Example: Instead of just installing a wine rack, you might afford a full walk-in wine room with climate control for the same budget.

Increased Home Enjoyment & Functionality

🏡 Enhance your living experience while waiting for the market to recover.

          • If selling isn’t your priority, home upgrades allow you to enjoy your space more.
          • Features like hidden rooms, secure gun storage, or custom entertainment spaces offer both practical benefits and luxury appeal.
          • Home improvement now means you’ll enjoy a more functional, stylish home for years to come.

Example: A hidden room or secure storage space adds both functionality and peace of mind while increasing long-term home value.

Cheaper Financing Options

🏦 Deflation can lead to lower interest rates on home equity loans.

          • If financing your home upgrades, lower interest rates mean cheaper borrowing costs.
          • Investing in renovations now could cost you less than waiting for an inflationary period when prices—and rates—rise again.

Example: Using a low-interest home equity loan to invest in a custom wine cellar or secret safe room may be a strategic financial move during deflation.

Final Thoughts: Invest in Your Home, Maximize Your ROI

During deflationary times, home improvements can be a strategic investment. You benefit from lower costs, premium upgrades, and a stronger position in the future real estate market.

If you’re considering a luxury home upgrade—whether a wine cellar, hidden room, or custom woodwork—Timber Creek Carpentry can help you make the most of this 

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William Thomas0 commentUncategorized
March 20, 2025

US Medium Number of Firearm & Rifle Purchases Per Individual 2025

​As of 2025, the United States has experienced fluctuations in firearm purchases over recent years. Here’s an overview:​
Annual Firearm Sales

      • 2020: A record 21.8 million firearms were sold, driven by factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, social unrest, and political events.​thetrace.org

      • 2023: Approximately 16.7 million firearms were sold, marking a 4% decline from 2022. ​safehome.org

      • 2024: Sales continued to decrease, with 15.3 million firearms purchased, representing a 29.8% drop from the 2020 peak. ​thetrace.org

Per Capita Firearm Purchases

To estimate the average number of firearms purchased per individual in 2024:​

        • Total U.S. Population (2024): Approximately 332 million.​

        • Per Capita Purchase: 15.3 million firearms divided by 332 million people equals approximately 0.046 firearms per person.​thetrace.org

This suggests that, on average, there was about 1 firearm purchased for every 22 individuals in 2024.​

Cumulative Civilian Firearm Ownership
        • Estimates indicate that civilians in the U.S. own over 500 million firearms, equating to approximately 120.5 firearms per 100 people. ​nsin.us
Trends and Factors Influencing Firearm Sales

        • Pandemic and Social Unrest: The surge in 2020 sales is attributed to uncertainties stemming from the pandemic and societal tensions.​safehome.org+1thetrace.org+1

        • Political Climate: Anticipation of potential gun control measures often leads to increased firearm purchases.​safehome.org

        • Market Saturation: The decline in recent years may be due to market saturation, as many individuals who intended to purchase firearms have already done so.​

It’s important to note that while these figures provide an overview of firearm sales, they do not necessarily reflect the distribution among individuals, as some may purchase multiple firearms while others may not purchase any.

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William Thomas0 commentSecret Doors, Security, Uncategorized
March 19, 2025

US Medium wine bottle consumption per individual 2025

​In 2025, the per capita wine consumption in the United States is projected to be approximately 1.75 liters of pure alcohol. Given that a standard 750-milliliter bottle of wine contains about 90 milliliters of pure alcohol, this translates to an average of 19 to 20 bottles of wine consumed per person annually.​ReportLinker

Calculation Breakdown:

      • Pure Alcohol Content per Bottle: A typical 750-milliliter wine bottle at 12% alcohol by volume contains approximately 90 milliliters of pure alcohol (750 ml × 12%).​

      • Annual Consumption: 1.75 liters (1,750 milliliters) of pure alcohol divided by 90 milliliters per bottle equals approximately 19.4 bottles per person per year.​

Market Trends:

      • Stabilizing Consumption: After previous declines, the U.S. wine market is expected to stabilize, with total volume growth projected to be flat (0% to -1%) by the end of 2025. ​ohbev.com

      • Revenue Projections: The U.S. wine market is anticipated to generate $40.5 billion in 2025, with an average per capita revenue of $117.81. ​statista.com

These figures indicate a steady wine consumption rate, with individuals averaging about 19 to 20 bottles annually in 2025.

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William Thomas0 commentDesign, Remodeling, Uncategorized, Wine Cellars
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