TIL my hunt for a rare vinyl cost me $75 for a bootleg

I was trying to find a copy of 'The Moon and the Melodies' by Harold Budd and the Cocteau Twins. It's from 1986 and never got a proper reissue. I saw one listed online for $75, which seemed high but possible. When it arrived, the sound quality was awful and the sleeve felt wrong. I checked the matrix numbers and realized it was a fake pressing from the early 2000s. The seller ghosted me, so I'm out the cash. Has anyone else been burned on a bootleg they thought was an original?

I mean, idk if everyone knows this, but TIL that a quick mist with a spray bottle keeps my DIY concrete coasters from cracking.

Hot take: Winging it in Kyoto gave me a better trip than any itinerary could.

I think sticking to a strict travel plan is a huge mistake. Last fall, I ditched my schedule in Kyoto and just wandered. I ended up in a neighborhood festival that wasn't in any guidebook. The food was incredible, and I made friends with a couple who ran a tiny shop. That random afternoon felt more real than seeing the crowded golden temple. Why do we pack our days with must-see spots? Sometimes the best memories come from getting lost.

Switched to wrapping and my brisket improved

I avoided wrapping for years to get a good bark. A buddy's perfect cook convinced me to try it. Ngl, what's your take on wrapping?

Used to think trail mix was pointless until a long hike proved me wrong.

I always brought just water and granola. Having nuts and fruit kept my energy UP the whole way.

Why I'm not sold on the all-digital diagnostic trend

I've caught errors that screens missed just by listening to the unit's hum and feeling for vibrations.