Theresa Cox

Good call on the bearing and coupler. A quick way to isolate it: with the jar off pulse the base for half a second - if the grinding disappears, it’s the jar bearing; if it’s still noisy, look at the coupler or motor. Also check for black rubber dust on the base or any sticky seep under the blade plate, both are telltale signs of parts failing. Since it’s about a year old, it’s worth checking the warranty before buying a new jar assembly or coupler.

Go for a TPU or silicone based case with a textured grip on the sides and a raised edge around the screen and camera. That combo handles clumsy drops better than hard plastic and it stays steady in a sweaty hand during a jog. If you can find a dual layer design with reinforced corners in your price range and even better. Works great. Waterproof at twenty bucks is rare. Aim for splash friendly features instead such as sealed buttons and a snug flap over the charging port. If a stand matters, look for a low profile kickstand that locks firmly so it does not rattle, and check photos to be sure it still sits flat in a pocket. Double check the cutouts match your ports and the buttons click cleanly, and watch the thickness so it does not turn your phone into a brick.

Therapy and camps are pricey, so try rose-thorn-bud and phones away.

Taco bar—learned the hard way you can't deep-fry cilantro.