Set the pouring work in a left-to-right gradient with a 12-inch level, and at 8:17 a.m. it reappeared as a perfect circle because “the water wanted a meeting.” Anyone else watch spatial harmony joyfully implode this fast?
I’ve had the 8:17 vortex too; the one thing that fixed it was sticking a narrow strip of absorbent shelf liner along the front of the pouring tray so when “the water wanted a meeting” it wicks forward instead of pooling into a circle. Would you try that for a week? It slightly messes with the pristine look you set with the 12-inch level, but it keeps the left-to-right flow intact.
I wedge a single felt furniture dot under the back-right corner so the pour is imperceptibly off-level and the stream can’t spiral into a ‘the water wanted a meeting’ circle; it’s invisible to the kids but stops the 8:17 vortex cold. If your tray is totally flat, a hidden coin works too — just re-check with your 12-inch level so it still reads level enough.
I rub a tiny bit of candle wax along the pitcher spout so the stream snaps off clean instead of curling into a circle — works like a charm in my room. I tell them it’s “no meetings today” water and the circle stops. You’ll need to re-wax after washing; what kind of spout are you using?