Chapter 1: Nostalgic Reflections on Refrigeration

In my childhood, we had a vintage Philco refrigerator, adorned with a silver "V" emblem reminiscent of classic car hoods. It would start with a clunky thunk followed by a whine, while the freezer featured a flip-down door that snapped shut—unless ice buildup held it ajar.

When the frost became overwhelming, we would empty its contents and power it down. A collection of papers would gather on the floor, and towels absorbed the water trickling down the sides, resembling a small, leaky kiddie pool.

My father would chip away at the ice with a knife, always trying to expedite the process. Large chunks would break free and crash onto the linoleum like icebergs breaking away from a glacier, hiding in corners and waiting to surprise unsuspecting socks.

As I began my own family, I purchased a spacious LG refrigerator, equipped with a bottom freezer and its own defrost cycle. We had to remove a cabinet to fit it into the space previously occupied by the Philco. Now, it feels overly large for just the two of us.

Today’s refrigerators are smart appliances. I can’t help but wonder if they are aware of the peculiar green and blue fuzz lurking in Tupperware behind the pickles. Will it send me a notification when someone takes my last beer or when the milk is replaced with just a tiny sip remaining?

Will it advise against late-night snacking or remind me not to indulge in leftover icing on toast? Am I going to have to outsmart it to open the door when it's not meal time? Will my fridge develop emotions and seek validation for its service, perhaps desiring a gold star just for existing?

And as my fridge matures and eventually leaves my home, will I lie awake at night, contemplating how it is adjusting to its new life?

The first video titled "Why are the walls in my refrigerator too hot to touch?" explores common concerns regarding refrigerator temperatures and how they might affect food safety. It provides insights into what to check if your fridge is running warmer than expected.

Chapter 2: The Emotional Journey of Appliances

In this chapter, I reflect on the deeper connections we form with our appliances, especially fridges.

The second video, "Fridge Failure: Real Feelings After Doing So Much Good for Family but Then Messing Up Once…" dives into the emotional aspect of appliance mishaps and how they can impact family dynamics.