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Month: May 2025

  • Blue Lagoon, Grindavik: A Magical Icelandic Experience

    Blue Lagoon, Grindavik: A Magical Icelandic Experience

    First Impressions: Absolute Magic

    If you’ve ever dreamed of bathing in an enormous, steaming blue oasis, then Blue Lagoon in Grindavik is THE place. This stunning geothermal spa is basically nature’s jacuzzi, set in the middle of a lava field—because, Iceland.

    The water is warm, the scenery is jaw-dropping, and the whole experience is pure relaxation. Honestly, the stress melts away like a snowflake hitting hot coffee.

    The Beauty of the Blue Lagoon

    The moment you step into the lagoon, you’re surrounded by a breathtaking environment—the milky-blue water, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and rising steam create an otherworldly atmosphere. The water is naturally heated, making it warm and soothing regardless of the season.

    Insert photo of the Blue Lagoon exterior here

    Mineral-Rich Waters & Skincare Perks

    Let’s talk about the ridiculously blue water. It’s warm, soothing, and packed with minerals like silica and algae, which are known for their skin-nourishing properties.

    💆‍♀️Bonus: They offer face masks at the swim-up counters, which are included—so yes, you can float around while treating your skin to a spa-worthy moment.

    Swim-Up Bars & Spa Extras

    The Blue Lagoon isn’t just about soaking—they’ve got swim-up bars serving cocktails (at an extra cost), because, let’s be honest, what’s better than sipping a drink in a natural hot tub?

    If you’re feeling extra indulgent, they also offer massages in the water (for an extra cost)—talk about next-level relaxation.

    The Water: A Blue Dream… But Treat Your Hair With Respect

    Let’s talk about the ridiculously blue water. It’s warm, mineral-rich, and beyond soothing, but there’s a tiny catch—if you’re not careful, your hair will suffer.

    💡 Top Tip: Drench your hair in conditioner before stepping into the lagoon, unless you secretly want straw-like texture for weeks. Trust me, it’s not cute.

    Phone-Free Bliss

    Now, I didn’t take my phone into the lagoon (because I value its existence), but the outside photos give you an idea of how gorgeous this place is. If you’re desperate for the Instagram shot, maybe bring a waterproof pouch—but honestly, just enjoy the moment.

    More Than Just a Lagoon

    Beyond the mineral-rich waters, there’s plenty to enhance your spa experience:

    • Steam room
    • Sauna
    • Steam cave
    • Cold water plunge pool (for the brave souls out there!)

    The Ultimate Blue Lagoon Ritual

    If you want to fully embrace the experience, the Blue Lagoon Ritual is a multi-step skincare treatment that includes:

    • A cleansing scrub
    • Silica mud mask
    • Algae mask
    • Hydrating oil or lotion

    To deepen the relaxation, you’re encouraged to spend time in a cave-like setting, taking things slow between treatments. The ritual also includes rainfall showers between each step—though, fair warning: they are FREEZING. We knew about the benefits, but honestly? We couldn’t handle it—it was just TOO cold! 😂

    Why You Should Visit

    Visiting the Blue Lagoon isn’t just about relaxation—it’s an entire sensory experience. The minerals in the water are said to have great benefits for the skin, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Plus, the atmosphere is calming, peaceful, and unlike anywhere else in the world.

    Straight from the Lagoon to the Airport

    Another huge perk—the Blue Lagoon is super close to Keflavik Airport, so it’s a perfect stop before flying out. We went straight from the lagoon to the airport, which made for an epic end to our trip.

    💡Tip: We hired a car, so we left our luggage in the car, but if you’re not renting a car, it would be worth checking if they offer storage for your bags.

    Final Thoughts

    The Blue Lagoon in Grindavik is an unforgettable experience, offering breathtaking blue waters, relaxation, skincare benefits, and plenty of extras to make the visit special. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or looking for a romantic escape, this place is 100% worth it and a bucket list destination.

    Have you visited the Blue Lagoon? Share your experience in the comments below!

  • Cedars Inn, Barnstaple, Review: A Relaxing Stay with Friendly Hospitality

    Warm Welcome & Helpful Staff

    From the moment we arrived at Cedars Inn, we felt at home. The receptionist was extremely helpful and friendly, welcoming us with humor and a smile—a perfect start to our stay!

    Comfortable & Clean Rooms

    The rooms were a decent size, offering a clean and cozy environment. While the bed was a little soft for our liking, the bedding was fresh, and the pillows were of good standard, making for a comfortable night’s sleep.

    Room Details

    The room was spacious enough for a weekend stay, complete with a TV and tea/coffee facilities. However, the lighting was awful, making it near impossible to do makeup properly—ladies, consider bringing a ring light or preparing for a guessing game!

    Bathroom: Clean but Lacking Essentials

    Although the bathroom was small, it was clean and well-maintained, featuring a shower over the bath that was of good spec. However, to my partner’s absolute disgust, there was no toilet brush—cue the horrified expression 😬.

    Dining Experience: A Lovely Conservatory Restaurant

    Cedars Inn has a proper restaurant housed in a beautiful conservatory-style area with lovely garden views. The setting made for a relaxing dining experience, and all the staff were friendly and hardworking, ensuring guests had a great meal.

    Convenient Parking & EV Chargers

    One thing we appreciated was the free parking—a rarity these days! There are two parking areas:

    • Left-hand side near the courtyard rooms
    • Right-hand side with car chargers for electric vehicle users

    A Perfect Venue for Events & Leisure

    We visited Cedars Inn for a wedding reception, and it did not disappoint. The reception venue itself was a decent size and even had its own small bar—though it lacked high-end spirits such as Hendrick’s gin. Luckily, this was not a problem because a quick trip to the main bar sorted us out nicely!

    Lovely Bar Atmosphere

    Despite being busy, the bar was well-run, and there was never a long wait for drinks—something that’s always appreciated during a lively evening!

    Noise Levels: Expect Some Pub Sounds

    Given that the hotel is part of a pub, you can hear some noise in the evenings—but thankfully, it stopped by 11 PM, meaning a peaceful sleep was still possible. I assume this is mainly over the weekend and a weekday visit may be slightly different.

    Final Thoughts

    With its warm hospitality, convenient amenities, and relaxing atmosphere, Cedars Inn is a great choice for a short break or special occasion. It is in a great location with lovely beaches and countryside walks a short drive away. While the rooms could use better lighting and the bathroom lacked a toilet brush, the friendly service, great food, and well-managed bar make it worth the stay.

    Have you visited Cedars Inn? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Coppid Beach Hotel Review: A Cozy Stay with Character

    Coppid Beach Hotel Review: A Cozy Stay with Character

    An Elegant Ski-Lodge Vibe & Convenient Features

    We’ve stayed at Coppid Beach Hotel a few times now, and every visit has been enjoyable. From the elegant ski-lodge aesthetic to the ramp for easy access (suitcases, wheelchairs, and pushchairs rejoice), it makes a great first impression. Oh, and there’s plenty of parking, including electric chargers and disabled spaces, so no need to fight for a spot!

    Lobby Luxury & Bar Comfort

    Walking into the spacious lobby, you instantly feel like you’re somewhere special. It’s clean, fresh, and slightly fancy, with plush sofas, high tables, and a well-stocked bar—ideal for a pre-dinner drink or lounging about. There’s even a lovely outdoor seating area, but unfortunately, we didn’t get to enjoy it… because it was typical British weather when we visited!

    bar at coppid beach hotel
    seating area at the coppid beach lobby
    Image of the reception area at coppid beach hotel
    Image of the entrance to coppid beach hotel

    The Rooms: Cozy but a Bit Dated

    Check-in is at 3 PM, but both times we arrived early and were kindly allowed into our room straight away—bonus points for efficiency!

    We booked a standard double, and while the beds were super comfortable, the lighting was on the dim side, making the room feel a bit dark. There’s a desk with a mirror, which sounds great—until you try to do your makeup. Ladies, prepare for a struggle because the lighting is NOT your friend. Thankfully, the bathroom mirror saves the day with bright lighting—sorry, men, but that space is ours now! 😂

    Bathroom Insights

    • Shower? Lovely and spacious—definitely a two-person fit 😜
    • Water pressure? Great!
    • Toilet brush? Non-existent (cue my partner’s horrified face 😬)
    • Shampoo & shower gel? Provided, but be warned… the shampoo left my hair feeling dry. If you’ve got fussy hair like mine, bring your own!)
    • Tea & coffee selection? Standard—English breakfast tea, coffee, green tea. No fruit tea or chamomile available, though, so if that’s your go-to, pack your own. Bonus: They throw in a couple of delicious biscuits! 😃

    They do have rooms with a balcony and a bath, but we didn’t opt for that this time.

    Oh, and each floor has stunning fish tanks—totally unexpected but such a cool feature that adds a little extra charm!

    Insert picture of fish tank & rooms here

    Breakfast: Great Selection, Friendly Service

    Our stay included breakfast, and the hotel offers the classic buffet—hot and continental options, all fresh and well-prepared. The staff greeted us with a warm morning welcome, making it all the more enjoyable.

    Tea, coffee, and juice are included, but if you fancy a latte or cappuccino, it is an extra charge but at a fair rate. The restaurant itself is spacious, with plenty of seating, so no fighting over tables first thing in the morning.

    Spa, Pool & Gym: A Mixed Bag

    The spa and pool area feels a little tired, and during our last visit in November 2024, it needed an upgrade—but that may have been done now.

    The jacuzzi experience was… unique—water wasn’t very warm, and the bubble button was awkwardly placed on the wall. So naturally, we turned it into a game—the loser had to get out to turn the bubbles back on. Needless to say, we suddenly started taking the game VERY seriously! 😆

    Swimming lessons were running at the time, making the pool busy and noisy, but if you’re keen on swimming lengths, it’s a decent size.

    Gym: Small but Well-Equipped

    While compact, the gym was clean and tidy with good equipment. The weights went up to 30kg (from memory), and there was cardio equipment available too. So whether you’re after a quick workout or just trying to burn off the extra breakfast pastries, it does the job!

    Surprise Bonus: Onsite Nightclub!

    Now, here’s something we didn’t expect—there’s a nightclub downstairs from the ground floor! And let me tell you, this wasn’t just some random DJ night—they actually had the real Artful Dodger playing!

    It was a total surprise when we stumbled upon it, and while we had to pay for tickets, it was well worth the money. The night was amazing, the staff were super friendly, and the music was on point.

    Now, let’s talk security—it may have been because it was a special night with Artful Dodger in attendance, but wow, the security team took their job VERY seriously. The men were subjected to an airport-level frisking, and my partner walked away feeling like the security guy knew him more intimately than I did! 😂

    Pricing & Final Thoughts

    • Reasonable price for the room and location—despite the rooms needing an update, it’s still worth the money.
    • Room service prices? Steep—like most hotels, room service is pricey, but hey, that’s the price to pay for the luxury of staying in bed! 😜
    • Drink prices? Fairly average—but they did great cocktails and actually made them correctly! Hendrick’s gin got its rightful cucumber garnish (unlike some places that make the absolute blasphemous mistake of adding lime instead 🤢).

    All in all, Coppid Beach Hotel makes for a charming and comfortable stay, with friendly staff, cozy vibes, and a great breakfast—but some areas need modernizing (looking at you, spa!).

    Would we return? Absolutely!

    Have you stayed at Coppid Beach Hotel? Share your experience in the comments below!

  • Father’s Day Gift Ideas That Dad Will Actually Use (From a Real Dad)

    Father’s Day Gift Ideas That Dad Will Actually Use (From a Real Dad)

    Let’s be honest—dads love thoughtful gifts, but not every Father’s Day present hits the mark. As a dad myself, I’ve received my fair share of mugs, socks, and novelty gadgets that quietly ended up in a drawer.

    So this year, skip the clichés and get him something he’ll actually use (and thank you for).

    Every dad is different. Some are into gardening or sports, others into DIY or tech. There’s probably no one-size-fits-all category—but the collections below should give you a great starting point.

    💡 Pro tip: Build on a theme that dad is already into. Spend what you have on one meaningful gift, rather than lots of smaller bits that take up drawer space and never get used.

    And because not every budget is the same, each section includes options from low-cost to premium picks. If you’ve got ideas I should add—drop a comment or message, I’d love to hear them!

    Adam holding a super sparrow water bottle

    Super Sparrow is the best allrounder for sure

    We have built up a collection of these over the years and they get used daily

    Personally I would love another one for fathers day!

    These bottles work well around the house, at work and at the gym or garden.

    Check out Supper Sparrow on Amazon here.

    🌿 Gardening Gifts

    For the dads who find peace (and pride) in the garden.

    BudgetGift IdeaWhy It’s Great
    £10–15Heavy-Duty Gardening GlovesDurable and comfy (I recommend sizing up!)
    £15–20Kneeling Pad with Tool StorageKeeps knees clean + tools handy
    £25–30Stainless Steel Hand Tool SetBuilt to last through seasons
    £35–40Folding Garden Stool & Tool KitMulti-functional and easy to carry
    £70–80Ryobi Cordless Weed Sprayer
    Full review on Barepage.org tools.    		I use mine four times a year—excellent for domestic weed control

    ☀️ Summer Essentials

    Make his summer more fun, relaxing, and memorable.

    BudgetGift IdeaWhy It’s Great
    £10–15Cooling Towel SetSurprisingly useful for hot days
    £15–20Insulated Water BottleStays cold all day—I keep one by my side when outdoors
    £25–30Portable Bluetooth SpeakerMusic makes everything better
    £40–50Foldable HammockRelaxation in minutes, anywhere
    £250+Ooni Pizza OvenA splurge, but makes unforgettable summer nights

    🏋️ Sports & Fitness Gifts

    Great for active dads—or those getting back into it.

    BudgetGift IdeaWhy It’s Great
    £10–15Insulated Water BottleSpace-saving and versatile
    £20–25Insert something here. Insert something here.
    £30–35Foam Roller or Massage Ball SetSpeeds up recovery
    £50–70Adjustable DumbbellsCompact but powerful
    £100+Smartwatch / Fitness TrackerHelps keep goals on track

    🔧 DIY & Home Projects

    For the dad who’s always building, fixing, or tweaking.

    BudgetGift IdeaWhy It’s Great
    £10–15Head TorchKeeps the light on and your hands free.
    £20–30Tool Organizer BoxBecause chaos isn’t part of the plan
    £40–60Screwdriver KitGet a set that will last a lifetime
    £120-140Ryobi Cordless Impact DriverGame changer for any project
    £140+Drill & Battery Combo KitIdeal for serious weekend warriors

    🖥️ Tech & Work-From-Home

    Smart gadgets and desk upgrades he’ll appreciate every day.

    BudgetGift IdeaWhy It’s Great
    £10–15Blue Light GlassesGood for eyes, especially over 40
    £20–25Silent Wireless MouseQuiet clicks = peaceful focus
    £35–45USB-C Docking StationDeclutters the whole desk
    £70–90Webcam Professional video calls made easy
    £170+Noise-Cancelling HeadphonesThe gift of silence

    💬 Final Thoughts

    You don’t need to spend a fortune to give a gift that lands well. Just pick something thoughtful, practical, and in line with what he already enjoys.

    A single meaningful gift goes much further than lots of gifts that will end up in a draw!

    🎁 Want to impress?
    Bundle a few items into a “Dad Kit” that matches his vibe (e.g., Garden Hero Pack, Summer BBQ Box, or DIY Master Kit).

  • The Sonos Era 300’s Are Stunning, But the App Is a Disaster

    The Sonos Era 300’s Are Stunning, But the App Is a Disaster

    Let’s get one thing clear: I didn’t just wander into the Sonos world recently. I’ve been living in it for over a decade.

    I’ve got the receipts — two Play:3s, three original Play:1s, two first-gen Playbars, and a Sub. That’s not a casual investment. That’s someone who bought into the vision of Sonos when it was still exciting: premium wireless sound, seamless multi-room playback, and an app that—back then—just worked.

    My living room setup is basically the classic Sonos poster child: a full 5.1 experience anchored by a Playbar, with a Sub and two Play:1s as surrounds. It sounds phenomenal. Even now, after all these years, it still punches above its weight.

    So when the Era 300 launched, I was naturally curious. I loved the idea of spatial audio done right. But I hesitated. And that hesitation turned into months of waiting—not because I wasn’t excited about the hardware, but because Sonos had completely lost the plot on the software side.

    📉 Sonos and the App Meltdown

    I don’t say this lightly, but Sonos nearly lost me.

    In 2024, they rolled out a complete overhaul of the Sonos app. And rather than polish what was already solid, they basically tore it down to the studs… then forgot to rebuild the top floor.

    The new app launched with missing features. Not edge case stuff either—core functionality. Here’s what went out the window:

    • Alarms
    • Sleep timers
    • Access to local libraries
    • Queue editing quirks
    • And maybe most absurdly, any clear indicator of whether a song was playing in Dolby Atmos or not

    This wasn’t a “we moved the buttons around” update. This was a “wait, why doesn’t this thing do the thing anymore?” moment. It felt like they shipped a beta to the public and crossed their fingers.

    Users were furious. App store ratings tanked. I wasn’t just reading about the mess—I was living in it, day-to-day, trying to play music in my house.

    And this wasn’t just a one-off stumble. The blowback was so bad that longtime Sonos CEO Patrick Spence stepped down in January 2025. That’s not normal. That’s the kind of thing that happens when leadership fundamentally misreads their user base.

    If you want the full post-mortem, The Verge did a great deep dive, but the short version is: they pushed out a half-baked app, pretended it was the future, and users revolted.

    🎵 Why I Still Bought Two Era 300s

    After all that… I still went ahead and bought two Era 300s.

    Not right away. I waited. I let others be the guinea pigs. I read everything, watched YouTube reviews, and waited for Sonos to patch the app enough to make it barely functional again. And then I pulled the trigger.

    First, I dropped them in the kitchen as a stereo pair. Immediate difference. The sound was huge, clear, immersive—everything the reviews said. But that’s just the first phase. The long-term plan is to move them to the front room and upgrade to an Arc and new Sub for a fully Atmos-enabled home theater experience.

    The Era 300s are designed for that kind of flexibility, and they deliver on it. It’s part of what still makes Sonos great: the hardware is thoughtful, future-ready, and damn good at what it does.

    But I’ll be honest—I didn’t buy these speakers with excitement. I bought them because I’ve already committed so much to the platform. I’m locked in. If I were starting from scratch today? I don’t know if I’d choose Sonos again. And that’s a hard thing to admit, after being this deep into the ecosystem for this long.

    🔊 So How Do They Sound?

    Let’s talk sound—because this is where the Era 300 absolutely redeems itself.

    Paired in stereo, the Era 300s are monsters. Room-filling sound, precise separation, and a sense of space that’s genuinely impressive. And when you play Dolby Atmos tracks? That’s where the magic happens.

    I’m using Apple Music, and it’s the best experience by far. They’ve nailed the presentation: curated playlists, obvious labels, clean navigation. You know immediately what’s in Atmos and what’s not. Songs feel immersive, like they’re floating around you. It’s not gimmicky—it’s cinematic.

    I also tested Amazon Music, which technically supports spatial audio, but wow—finding Atmos content there is a chore. No clear sections, no filters. It’s just buried. You’re basically guessing. It works, but it doesn’t invite you to explore like Apple Music does.

    Still, even with stereo-only tracks, the Era 300s hold up. They don’t fake it—they just give you clean, dynamic audio. That said, these speakers are honest to a fault. If a track is poorly mastered, you’ll hear it. The Era 300 doesn’t hide weaknesses; it exposes them.

    💡 Small Wins: Bluetooth, Line-In, and Voice

    Some small but meaningful wins:

    • Bluetooth is here and finally works without jumping through hoops
    • Line-in exists, but you’ll need to buy a USB-C dongle (classic Sonos move)
    • Voice assistants are… complicated. Google Assistant is gone. Alexa is limited. Sonos Voice works, but only for very basic stuff
    • Trueplay tuning is still best with iOS. Android support is limited and kind of underwhelming

    These features used to feel like bonuses. Now, they feel like necessary checkboxes to make up for how rough the app experience is.

    🤔 Where Does That Leave Me?

    Here’s the thing: I love the sound. I hate the uncertainty.

    When I first got into Sonos, it felt like a confident, premium platform. Everything worked. The sound was killer. The app made sense. And the promise was simple: “we’ll handle the tech so you can just enjoy music.”

    That promise is starting to feel a bit shaky.

    The Era 300s are brilliant speakers. Truly. When the conditions are right—paired up, running Apple Music, playing Atmos—they deliver a stunning experience. But that magic is layered on top of an app that still feels like it’s recovering from a breakdown.

    I bought them because I had to, not because I was excited to. Because starting over with another ecosystem (Bluesound? HEOS? a Frankenstein Sonos/Roon hybrid?) just isn’t realistic with everything I’ve already bought.

    So yeah, I’m staying. For now. But I’m watching closely. Because one more screw-up, and I may finally start figuring out what a life after Sonos looks like.

    TL;DR

    • Sound: Exceptional. Especially with Atmos tracks on Apple Music. Stereo pairing takes it to another level.
    • Software: Sonos broke its app, and while it’s improving, it’s still a frustrating mess. Missing features, laggy UI, no spatial indicators.
    • Music services: Apple Music is the clear winner for spatial audio. Amazon Music is clunky and uninviting.
    • Ecosystem: If you’re already in Sonos, the Era 300 is a no-brainer. If you’re not? Think long and hard.
    • Overall: The Era 300 is amazing. But Sonos, as a company, needs to earn back the trust it’s lost.
  • How Shroud Took Down the Queen in ARC Raiders – And What You Can Learn From It

    How Shroud Took Down the Queen in ARC Raiders – And What You Can Learn From It

    ARC Raiders is an upcoming third-person extraction shooter developed by Embark Studios. Set in a dystopian Earth plagued by mechanized invaders known as ARC, the game challenges players to scavenge resources, battle hostile machines, and extract with their lives intact. While I haven’t had the chance to jump in personally, I’ve been immersing myself in gameplay footage — and nothing stood out more than Shroud’s recent fight against one of the game’s toughest world bosses: The Queen.

    In this particular video, Shroud and his squad face off against The Queen in a heart-pounding encounter that pushes their coordination, aim, and resource management to the limit. They ultimately succeed in taking down the massive boss but narrowly miss their extraction — a moment that perfectly illustrates ARC Raiders’ high-stakes, high-reward loop.

    Breaking Down the Queen Fight: Lessons from Shroud

    Watching Shroud’s team operate was like seeing a live tutorial of how to approach endgame content in ARC Raiders. Their fight reveals several tactics that other players can emulate:

    1. Target the Legs First

    One of the most effective strategies Shroud’s team employed was focusing fire on The Queen’s legs. Damaging them causes the Queen to stagger and expose her brain, which is the key damage point. This mechanic turns the tide of the fight by opening up high-damage windows.

    2. Timing is Everything

    The brain is only exposed for a short period after the Queen is staggered. The team’s ability to synchronize their damage output during this phase determined how quickly they could bring her down. Shroud’s instinctual communication and positioning were critical here.

    3. Handling Reinforcements

    While dealing with the Queen, rocketeers and other mechanized enemies constantly attack. Shroud’s squad used Wolf Pack (MIRV Grenades) and Shock Grenades to neutralize these threats. One key tip: targeting a single thruster on the rocketeers is often enough to stop them from respawning.

    JackFrags’ Exploration – A Different Kind of ARC Experience

    While JackFrags didn’t face off against The Queen in his recent ARC Raiders video, his content offered a valuable look at the game’s broader design. His focus is on exploring the general game world, showcasing mechanics, and highlighting details like physics, visuals, and environmental storytelling.

    One moment that stood out was his discovery of yellow rubber ducks tucked away in various nooks and crannies of the environment — a whimsical touch that gives ARC Raiders a layer of personality beneath the heavy combat.

    System Requirements for ARC Raiders

    If you’re preparing to dive into ARC Raiders yourself, make sure your rig is ready. Based on technical playtests, here are the estimated system requirements:

    Minimum:

    • OS: Windows 10 64-bit
    • CPU: Intel Core i5-6600K / AMD Ryzen 5 1600
    • RAM: 12 GB
    • GPU: NVIDIA GTX 970 / AMD RX 580
    • Storage: 100 GB SSD Recommended

    Recommended:

    • OS: Windows 10/11 64-bit
    • CPU: Intel Core i5-9600K / AMD Ryzen 5 3600
    • RAM: 16 GB
    • GPU: NVIDIA RTX 2070 / AMD RX 5700 XT
    • Storage: 100 GB SSD

    Epic Settings (Ultra Performance):

    • CPU: Intel Core i7-9700K / AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
    • GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4070 Ti / AMD RX 7900 XTX
    • RAM: 16 GB

    These specs indicate ARC Raiders is built with modern systems in mind but remains accessible to mid-tier setups.

    Final Thoughts: Why ARC Raiders is One to Watch

    ARC Raiders is shaping up to be one of the most promising multiplayer shooters of the year. It combines PvE and PvP elements with a thrilling extraction gameplay loop, dynamic boss fights, and immersive world-building. Shroud’s encounter with The Queen showcases what makes this game special: tactical depth, unpredictable encounters, and those “oh no” moments that make for unforgettable stories.

    Even without firsthand experience, watching top-tier players like Shroud go toe-to-toe with ARC’s toughest threats — and seeing creators like JackFrags highlight the game’s immersive world and environmental detail — gives a real sense of ARC Raiders’ potential.

    As of now, ARC Raiders is scheduled for release in 2025, with the exact date yet to be announced. Embark Studios has been actively engaging the community through playtests to fine-tune the game’s mechanics and balance. The most recent playtest, Tech Test 2, ran from April 30 to May 4, 2025, and was available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Players interested in future testing opportunities can sign up via the official ARC Raiders website or request access through the game’s Steam page.

    Don’t Miss:

    Tags: ARC Raiders, Shroud, Extraction Shooter, PvE Boss Guide, System Requirements, Embark Studios, Gaming Strategy, Barepage.org, JackFrags, Yellow Ducks, Game Physics

  • WD Red 4TB Drive Failure After 10 Years: A Homelab Journey

    WD Red 4TB Drive Failure After 10 Years: A Homelab Journey

    After 10 years of near-continuous uptime, my WD Red 4TB drives finally started to fail. One threw serious SMART errors, the other began showing read faults soon after. While it’s the end of an era, it’s also a great opportunity to reflect on a setup that helped shape my career—and how I’m moving forward with Seagate IronWolf 10TB drives.

    ⚙️ 10 Years of Reliable WD Reds

    My original configuration was simple but powerful:

    • 2 x WD Red 4TB drives in a mirror via Windows Storage Spaces
    • SSD mirror for high-speed VMs
    • Deduplication enabled to maximize storage efficiency

    Performance was great. Writes matched single-drive speed, but reads were faster due to parallel access across both disks. This setup supported dozens of VMs, lab environments, and serious technical experimentation.

    💻 This Homelab Built My Career

    Here’s what I ran regularly:

    • Windows Server domain with AD, DNS, DHCP, and WDS
    • Exchange labs to simulate Office 365 migrations
    • Hyper-V VMs for hands-on learning
    • Windows deduplication to stretch my storage even further

    I’d stay up late, labbing out real-world issues I encountered during the day. Owning my own hardware meant no cloud bills, no shared labs—just total control. That edge helped me transition into consulting roles and deliver better solutions, faster.

    ⚠️ The Drives Finally Failed

    Recently, things took a turn:

    • The first WD Red 4TB began reporting critical SMART errors
    • I replaced it with a Seagate 8TB
    • The second started throwing read errors, so I installed a Seagate 10TB IronWolf NAS drive

    It’s not an ideal mirrored pair—but it works. The mismatch hasn’t impacted performance. Eventually, I’ll swap the 8TB for a second 10TB.

    🔗 Check the Seagate 10TB IronWolf NAS drive on Amazon

    🔁 Why I Chose the Seagate IronWolf 10TB

    The ST10000VN0008 offers:

    • 10TB of NAS-grade storage
    • 7200 RPM for strong sustained performance
    • 256MB cache and SATA 6Gb/s interface
    • Optimized for 24/7 use with NAS-grade endurance

    It’s a solid upgrade path, and while I’m not running an enterprise NAS, I still value reliability and performance in my homelab.

    🚀 From Windows to TrueNAS

    After changing roles and using the lab less, I switched from Windows to TrueNAS. I lost some virtualization features (due to aging hardware), but gained:

    • Rock-solid ZFS-based storage
    • Simple UI for sharing, monitoring, and managing
    • Lower overhead and fewer moving parts

    My new setup includes:

    • SSD pool for apps
    • HDD pool (RAID-Z1) for media and archival
    • Services like Plex, Cloudflare Tunnel, and Immich

    🖼️ Immich Tip:

    Run the app on SSD, but store the photos on HDD—easy performance win and avoids cloud storage fees.

    🗃️ Current Mixed Drive Setup

    • 1 x 8TB
    • 1 x 10TB IronWolf
    • Running as a mirrored pair (for now)

    No performance issues yet, but the long-term plan is to replace the 8TB with another 10TB IronWolf, and repurpose the 8TB for offline backups of my TrueNAS volumes.

    🧠 Lessons from a Decade-Old Lab

    This setup taught me everything from server roles to Exchange migrations. It let me test, break, and rebuild real-world systems from scratch.

    Even in a less technical role today, that experience continues to pay dividends.

    📝 Final Thoughts

    If you’re thinking of setting up a homelab, there’s no better teacher than real hardware. My original WD Reds went a full 10 years—and this journey from Windows Storage Spaces to TrueNAS reflects how much you can do with the right tools.

    Now with Seagate IronWolf 10TB drives, I’m ready for the next decade. (He says hopefully!)

    🔗 Upgrade your NAS with the same Seagate 10TB IronWolf I’m using – check the latest price on Amazon

    A career built on these WD-RED 4TB drives. RIP

  • Ryobi Lawn Mower, Trimmer and Battery set

    Ryobi Lawn Mower, Trimmer and Battery set

    If you’re looking to cut the cord (literally) and ditch the hassle of petrol or extension leads, the Ryobi cordless lawnmower and grass trimmer set could be the perfect solution. I’ve owned this exact set for just under two years, and it’s been absolutely flawless.

    This review covers my personal experience using the Ryobi RLM1833BLT1825M, how the included 4.0Ah battery performs, and why this kit is one of the most convenient tools I’ve added to my shed.

    🎥 Watch My Hands-On Video

    ⚡ What’s in the Box?

    The Ryobi cordless mower and trimmer set includes:

    • Ryobi RLM18X33B40 Cordless Lawnmower (33cm cutting width)
    • Ryobi OLT1825M Cordless Grass Trimmer
    • 4.0Ah 18V ONE+ Battery
    • Compact ONE+ Charger

    This is an ideal starter bundle if you’re building out a cordless Ryobi ecosystem—or want a reliable all-in-one grass cutting solution straight out of the box.

    🏡 How I Use It in My Garden

    I mow the lawn roughly once every 1–2 weeks during the season, and this mower handles it without breaking a sweat. My garden is small-sized, and I typically only use about 1 bar of battery on a full cut—including edge trimming.

    Once I’m done, I simply pop the same 4.0Ah battery into my weed sprayer, drill, or hedge trimmer. No need to keep track of separate chargers or power types—just one system for everything.

    ✅ Why I Recommend This Ryobi Lawnmower & Trimmer Set

    🟢 The Lawnmower (RLM1833B):

    • Cordless freedom – No cables to dodge or trip over
    • Lightweight & easy to push – Makes mowing feel effortless
    • Adjustable cutting heights (25–65mm) – Perfect for seasonal lawn care
    • 33cm cutting deck – Ideal for small to medium gardens
    • Grass collection box (35L) – Catches clippings efficiently

    🟢 The Grass Trimmer (OLT1825M):

    • Auto-feed spool – Keeps trimming smooth and uninterrupted
    • Light and well-balanced – Great for edging and corners
    • Telescopic shaft and adjustable handle – Comfortable for all heights

    🔋 Battery Performance & ONE+ Compatibility

    The included 4.0Ah Ryobi ONE+ battery is excellent. I consistently get:

    • 1 full mow + trimming on a single charge (only 1 bar used)
    • Ability to swap it into other tools like my weed sprayer or drill afterward
    • Recharges quickly with the included compact charger

    This compatibility across tools is one of the biggest advantages of going with Ryobi.

    🧰 Durability After 2 Years of Use

    I’ve had zero issues in nearly two years of regular use. No faults, no weird noises, and both the mower and trimmer still feel solid and perform like new.

    • No rust, fading, or broken parts
    • Blades are still sharp, but you can easily replace or sharpen them
    • Battery holds charge well, even after dozens of cycles

    This is not a product that feels disposable—it’s clearly built to last.

    🚧 Minor Things to Be Aware Of

    Nothing major, but here’s what to keep in mind:

    • The 33cm cutting width is perfect for smaller gardens. If you have a large lawn, you may want a wider deck.
    • The grass trimmer is best for light to moderate edging. It’s not built for heavy brush but handles borders and paths perfectly.

    🧑‍🌾 Final Verdict: A Must-Have for Low-Stress Lawn Care

    The Ryobi cordless lawnmower and grass trimmer set has been one of my best purchases for the garden. It’s lightweight, low-maintenance, and totally eliminates the hassle of petrol or cords.

    If you’re already in the Ryobi ONE+ ecosystem—or looking to start—this is an easy “yes.” The included 4.0Ah battery gives you more than enough runtime, and you can keep using it with other tools in your shed.

    👉 Check the current price and reviews for the Ryobi lawnmower and trimmer set on Amazon
    👉 Watch my hands-on video review here