Our microwaves last five or six years, which isn't great, considering the cost. Our current Farberware doesn't want to stop running, so it's time for a new one. The choices are overwhelming, and most companies offer too many models, so it's hard to find a review of one that's actually available. I'll read reviews of a recommended model, but that model is no longer available. Between the testing and the publishing, the manufacturer changed models. Is a $500 KitchenAid better than a $70 Comfee? I want one with 1000W, 1.1 Cu ft, 12" turntable. Breville seems to be the best brand, but it's not easy to find at reasonable prices.

Well, I've decided that I can't buy a microwave. They're either not reliable, don't heat well, or are too expensive. I'll just have to continue eating ice cream.

https://www.consumerreports.org/appliances/microwave-ovens/toshiba-ml2-em31pass/m402662/

As a side note, most microwaves are made in a single factory in China. "The Midea Group has manufactured the majority of countertop microwave ovens sold in the United States since 2020."

In today's mail, I had a letter from the government... Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The letter began with: "You now have a new Medicare Number and your previous Medicare Number is no longer valid. Your new Medicare card is inside." It further informs me that the new card/number is effective April 2 and that I should inform my providers of the change.

I have no idea why they would replace my Medicare card and assign me a new/different number.

Has this happened to any of you UHHers?

My guess is that part of the new number is a flag to doctors and hospitals that... this old guy has cost us enough money... treat him accordingly... been nice communicating with you UHHers.

Sure, Boeing has messed up, but every time a Boeing plane has a problem, it's not the fault of the company. A Boeing jet recently lost a wheel just after take-off, and another one ran off the runway after landing. Headlines are emphasizing the fact that there was another Boeing problem. I can understand this because of the problems caused by company decisions, but not every problem is caused by the company.

On the other hand, Boeing has still not turned over any information about the plug door to the NTSB - after two months. Either they don't have the paperwork that they're supposed to have, or the paperwork is not what it should be.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COAUDEnlD5o

Many of you who read my comments know that I'm not a gear nut. I've always believed two things:

Mind over matter — Your photographic knowledge and experience are more important than the hunk of junk in front of your face.

Use the right tool for the job — Don't drive screws with a hammer. Sometimes you do need specialty gear.

Emily at Micro Four Nerds just released a video that is worth watching, and makes my point FAR better than I can. I'll link it below.

A bit of introduction — Emily Lowrey is a professional photographer in the UK. She does a lot of event work like weddings and has a YouTube channel that covers all things Micro Four Thirds and Lumix. Emily's been at it for decades, and knows her stuff. She sells all kinds of Lightroom presets, if you're into that sort of thing.

Most importantly, she cuts through the crap to get to the heart of an issue and lay the cards on the table. So before you think you need a new Whosawhatchit D7590 with four lenses to go on your next adventure, watch the video linked in the post below. It made my day.