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The weekend of 12-14 June 2015 saw the fourth Arc'teryx Alpine Academy take place in Chamonix, France.
CGR were lucky to be invited to attend the event as press and witnessed a fantastically successful weekend where 50 clinics and seminars were held, attended by 350 participants, 80 mountain guides and a selection of international Arc'teryx athletes.
Arriving on Thursday 11th June the weekend kicked off with a 'Mountain Clean Up' event, a collaboration between the Arc'teryx Alpine Academy and the Compagnie du Mont Blanc to help keep the mountains pure.
Preceding the opening ceremony on Thursday evening, at the Aiguille Du Midi base station where a number of inspirational presentations by Arc'teryx athletes took place, there was a media presentation and press dinner at the Montenvers Hotel with the dramatic backdrop of mountains like Les Drus, Les Grandes Jorasses and the Mer de Glace glacier. The presentation by Arc'teryx designers, focused on the evolution of the brand and it's design philosophy over the years before looking at some exciting developments within the footwear range for 2016.
The most exciting development to be unveiled was the forthcoming Acrux AR Gore tex Boot, a B3 double boot for technical alpine climbing, weighing in at under 1 KG per boot! More details of this are available in our dedicated news piece but needless to say, this product turned a few heads! There were also a couple of interesting additions to the approach shoe fold, namely the Arakys and Acrux SL shoes.
As well as a whole host of speakers and films to entertain us, some very cool outdoor equipment to test from brands such as Arc'teryx, Petzl, MSR, LYO Foods and Suunto, the main focus of the weekend was the wide range of clinics that were on offer.
From Photography to Mountain Medicine and Aid Climbing to Ski Alpinism there was literally something for everybody and this is the main reason why I think the event is such a growing success and also the clinics sell out so quickly. Learning new skills or consolidating old can be done amongst the stunning backdrop of the Chamonix mountains with expert tuition from Arc'teryx Athletes and highly qualified IFMGA Mountain Guides.
Over the weekend I took part in an Basic Mountaineering Education clinic as well as an Advanced Technical Alpinism clinic. Both were memorable experiences that I would highly recommend and I'm already looking forward to joining the Arc'teryx Academy for it's fifth year in 2016.
The Basic Mountaineering Education clinic took place from the summit of the Aiguille du Midi. We met early at the base station and were briefed about how the day would run by our guide, British Mountain Guide, Euan Whittaker. There was excellent progression throughout the day where we looked at skills from as basic as putting on and walking in crampons, tying into and using the rope for glacier travel, right through to crevasse rescue techniques. We walked down the very exposed snow arete from the Aiguille du Midi station, down onto the glacier and then found a nice safe col where we looked at snow anchors, such as buried rucsacs. This was then developed into using the anchor to secure a climber who has fallen into a crevasse, then after a nice lunch in the Cosmiques Refuge we moved this on further to start to learn how to create a 3:1 pulley system so a casualty could be hauled out of the crevasse. I would highly recommend this clinic, particularly to climbers who are about to venture onto glaciated terrain for the first time or for those who wish to consolidate their knowledge.
The Advanced Technical Alpinism clinic looked at skills on the other end of the spectrum with moving together on and protecting technical ground, short roping, abseiling, mixed climbing and transitioning safely and efficiently from one style to the next as dictated by the climb. The classic Arete Des Cosmiques was the perfect venue for this as it allowed us to move over snow, technical rock and some mixed ground, all within easy access of the Aiguille Du Midi cable car. The climb starts with some easy snow and then some rock scrambling where climbers can move together with the rope on and protect themselves with cams and slings. A couple of abseils followed by some snow climbing and traversing underneath impressive granite gendarmes lead to the crux wall, a vertical step of rock that had to be climbed in crampons. After this an awkward rock chimney and a short section of mixed climbing brought the final ridge within reach and a victory climb up the ladders to the tourist viewing platform at the Aiguille Du Midi summit station. A truly great outing was had by everybody and despite a poor forecast we were treated to sunshine and blue skies.
This was my first taste of the Arc'teryx Alpine Academy and I'm pretty sure it won't be my last. I can really recommend the weekend as having something for everybody, even the most skilled alpinists. The social side and friendly and supportive nature of the clinics is also a massive draw. Taking into account all of the free seminars, movies and speakers, very well priced clinics and also the excellent kit on hand to test, it is also very good value. A hugely memorable weekend in one of the best mountain environments around with a great group of people. Thanks a lot to Arc'teryx and everyone involved. See you next year!
Here is a nice video round up for you to enjoy
- Visit the Arc'teryx Academy website.
- Checkout the official Arc'teryx photo gallery from the weekend on Flickr.


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In the world of ballet, variations define a dancer's career. As artists a variation is the one moment where technique, artistry and years of daunting rehearsals finally meet. A 2-3 Act ballet is carried by the principals, and the defining moment for them are their variations. For a female in the role(s) Odette/Odile, she is first pushed emotionally, and technically as Odette. Then in a ferocious breath she seductively attacks with stamina, the role of Odile. Then, she has to turn back int Odette, and die. Exhausting. I mean not only does the prima have to act, change roles, act some more, she also has to do two full on PDDs and do an epic 4th act finale. Pretty impressive.
When it comes to the men in ballet, their variations are always kind of bland. It is usually two jumping passes, followed by two pirouette combinations, executed by flawless double tours or entrechat sixs, and then some have a quality menage added in. Either way, these variations have turned into like… the most redundant yet insanely tricked out performances. Like Roberto Bolle cranking out 40 Entrechat six in Giselle… Or Daniil Simkin's insane turning combos for Corsaire… Or Osiel Gounod in … like every variation. (If you don't know who he is… youtube that $h!t… it's like insane.)
Now, there are a lot of male variations that are actually super musical, and super beautiful that are overlooked. Granted… Most of them are either Balanchine, or specific to a company's repertory. BUUUUT… Regardless… We should take a look at these fantastic five variations for men.
1. "Name of Prince" Variation in ACT II… Paris Opera's – Nureyev version gives the male two super beautiful variations in the second act. The first uses the music that Balanchine's Nutcracker uses to bridge party and battle scene. It is a very long variation (7 minutes), but super gorgeous, and demonstrates that boys have arabesques too. It could be that Nureyev really reinvented the male, and as a male ballet dancer he was able to create roles for other men within the confinements of classical ballet. The second variation is from the music sometimes used in ACT III of sleeping beauty for one of the jewels. It is very classical as well but has really gorgeous enveloppe moments. Then, Royal Ballet also gives a super luscious, kind of sensual variation in the second act as well. As sensual as fairytale princes get.
2. Balanchine's Apollo. Besides the fact that this is probably one of the only ballets with a male name as the title and has the title/leading role… With music by Stravinsky, Apollo never leaves the stage but has two brilliant variations. One is really raw, and the other is really refined. Balanchine cut the first variation and birthing, but people since have put both back in. Both variations are incredibly musical, one of the things that I adore about Balanchine. I think for a lot of male dancers who were trained in the Balanchine aesthetic, and for men in Balanchine companies, this ballet is used to really define their presence in the company. I think NYCB currently has Chase Finlay as the face of Apollo, and prior to him was Nilas Martins (both blonde… kind of suspicious) but, both made names for themselves in the role. David's Dream Casting: Alexandre Hammoudi (aka Baby Daddy) in Apollo.
3. The Male Variation(s) from Sylvia. Besides the fact that the Delibes' score is super danceable and kind of cute… (FUN FACT: the original production of Sylvia was created to open the Palais Garnier for Paris Opera, and the costumes were designed by Lacoste) In the Balanchine PDD, the male is variation is structured like a classical variation, but has really beautiful nuances added in. And like a lot of the classical-like Balanchine male variations (Tchai Pas, Theme and Variations), each one was modified so the steps vary by who dances/staged it. In the Ashton version of Sylvia, Aminta has numerous gorgeous variations. I actually think that the Ashton Version is only danced at American Ballet Theatre, and Royal Ballet. Paris Opera has a version of Sylvia, but it is more contemporary or modern, so it doesn't count for this list. If we counted that… Then we would have to count numerous other new ballets like Chroma, In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated, every ballet created by Complexions, Cedar Lake and LINES, and the Cranko Ballets… Though… I really should count the Cranko Ballets… )
4. The male variations in John Cranko's Onegin are like beyond roles and somehow have combined real life and ballet. The music used for the male variations aren't awfully heavy, and scary sounding. The variations also create this beautiful emotional prism for a male ballet dancer. All of the Cranko characters are always so dynamic. I've never seen it live, but have watched the full length on Youtube on five different companies. It is incredible. When I was a student, I never really wanted to dance Onegin, but now in retrospect it is so beautiful to me and I am like -_____- (that is my Snorlax face)… Not that I was ever good enough, or would ever have been cast in Onegin… but still… a boy can dream.
5. The Liza Variation, from Balanchine's Who Cares? Music by Gershwin. Probably one of the younger variations as it was choreographed in 1937, but it is super fun. Kind of jazzy, okay, super jazzy but really fun dancing. Seriously. If you ever have the chance to preform it, it is one of the must enjoyable variations to get through. It isn't like trying to get through the male variation in Theme and Variations or random crazy turns from Corsaire. Did I mention, it really is just plain fun? And Baryshnikov in a Balanchine ballet = love. (Click Here = https://youtu.be/GnWxmELOcBI)
The Male Variation in the Satanella Pas De Deux from the Carnival of Venice tied with the male variation for Harlequinade for variations in classical ballet that aren't dance enough. Both are obviously classical variations, but I feel like these two ballets are underused. Plus… I think the music is kind of cute. I also think these two male variations are more age appropriate for boys (11-16) competing at competitions. I mean what 11 year old boy should be doing Swan Lake? Then, because I love Balanchine, there are the roles that don't really have variations but are gorgeous: the male lead in Rubies or Diamonds, the male in the walking pas de trois from Emeralds. I think all the male leads in Symphony in C or Palais Cristal, the male leads in Western Symphony, the pas de deux from Agon.)
Finally, I would like to take the time to talk about Lady of the Camellias, music by Chopin, and choreographed by John Neumeier is another "newer" classic work. It premiered in 1978 with Marcia Haydee, and is a super beautiful full length with male variations… The downside is that even though the story is the same, Val Caniparoli used the same music and redid it, maybe even better … But in this version, the male variations are great but they really aren't as dynamic as the females. Lucia Lacarra slayed this for the ballet gods.
To see the 5 variations, watch them on our YOUTUBE channel's playlist:
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The third FAO/CBD/OECD webinar on international databases on biosafety: Training on effective use of data on the databases
9 December 2015
The webinar report is available here.
FAO, UNEP-CBD and OECD hosted the 3rd webinar that provided a training opportunity in understanding the location, contents, specific meanings and possible use of the data that are made available on the databases.
On 12 November 2014 the first webinar on international databases on biosafety was jointly organized by Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). During the webinar, the mandates, scopes and activities of three databases namely the FAO GM Foods Platform, the Biosafety Clearing-House (BCH) and the OECD BioTrack product database were discussed.
Following the recommendations made during the first webinar, the second webinar was held on 27 May 2015. The second webinar highlighted the importance of strengthening/establishing effective national communication and coordination mechanisms on the topic of biosafety.
Many participants recognized the usefulness of the webinars in exchanging information and country experiences and thus requested FAO/CBD/OECD to continue organizing more webinars. More training opportunities through webinars on the topic of biosafety are also requested. In order to address this, the third joint FAO/CBD/OECD webinar was planned with an aim to provide training to the participants. The webinar was entitled "The third joint FAO/CBD/OECD webinar on international databases on biosafety: Training on effective use of data on the databases.".
Session 1
From left to right and above to below:
Ms Ayako Yoshio, Japan
Ms Amparo Ampil, Philippines
Ms Anita Anthonysamy, Malaysia
Session 2
Ms Vanesa Rincón, Spain
Ms Sol Ortiz García, Mexico
Mr Luc Bourbonniere, Canada
Ms Masami Takeuchi, the manager of the FAO GM Foods Platform (http://fao.org/gm-platform), Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO).
Ms Manoela Miranda, Biosafety Clearing House (bch.cbd.int), United Nations Environment Programme – Convention on Biological Diversity (UNEP-CBD).
Mr. Peter Kearns, BioTrack Product Database (http://www2.oecd.org/biotech/default.aspx), Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
Recordings of the Presentations (available through Youtube)
Please click on an image below to access the recording:
Recordings of the opening remarks and discussion sessions (available through Youtube)
- Opening remarks [Session1, Session2]
The discussion consisted of four different parts:
- Discussion 1: Effective us of the data on the Biosafety Clearing-House. [Session 1, Session 2]
- Discussion 2: Effective us of the data on the Bio Track Product Database. [Session 1, Session 2]
- Discussion 3: Effective us of the data on the FAO GM Foods Platform. [Session 1, Session 2]
- Interactive Discussion: Collaboration between countries and usefulness of the database network. [Session 1, Session 2]
Practical information
Wednesday, 9 December 2015
Two sessions were held (Use Time Converter to calculate the time difference between your location and Rome, Italy):
The session is open to all users and contributors of the three databases mentioned above, however places are limited. If you are interested in attending the webinar, fill out the Registration Form and send it to [email protected] by no later than 26 Novmber 2015.
How to join the webinar
Once you have successfully registered, you will receive a confirmation e-mail. You will receive another e-mail on the 7th of December 2015 (2 days before the event), which provide a link to access the webinar. One hour before the webinar session you have registered, you will receive the final e-mail with the same link as a reminder.
You will need to have a good internet connection to join the webinar. The use of your headphone/microphone is strongly recommended. Your browser must be the latest version with Adobe Flash Player properly installed. We suggest you to click on the link when you receive it on the 7th of December so that you can check if your browser and Flash are up to date.
Send your questions at [email protected]
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Category: Fundamentals
The liver, followed by the small bowel, is the organ most often damaged by stab wounds. The frequency of organ injury caused by gunshot wounds is greatest for small bowel, followed by the colon, and then the liver.
July 13, 2018
Nursing Tip of the Day! - Fundamentals
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CLT and Double Stud and PERSIST, oh my!
Those who have been around me any time during the last few months will know that one of the main topics on my mind has been the appropriate wall system for the No-name Passive House (working title: Mullet Hall). We began this quest looking primarily at Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Block.
As I explained in some detail in a previous post, I was initially inspired by Dan Levy's Woodstock Passive house, which relies on AAC with rock wool on the exterior to achieve a tight, comfortable, envelope.
However, after thinking critically about embodied energy in getting backed concrete shipped by truck from Florida to NY, as well as anticipating some construction sequencing and scheduling headaches with AAC, I began to consider another massive construction product/method: Cross Laminated Timber (CLT).
The challenge I have found with determining the applicability of CLT to our project is as follows: while I have received a couple of quotes for a general CLT package determined from our current set of schematic drawings, a final set of CLT drawings – which include upwards of $20k of specialized structural engineering and cut file (also called layup or mill file) layout – will be required to receive final pricing for a CLT package. Complicating matters even further, this set of engineered drawings may only be applicable to some (or one!) of the CLT manufacturers.
Basically, it seems that one has to get pretty far down the road with any particular CLT supplier before determining if CLT is even applicable to a particular project. So far, I have talked to representatives of the following CLT systems: ZÜBLIN Merk LENO, Stora Enso, Nordic Structures, Holz100 (Dowel Laminated Timber), and Binderholz. I also spoke with Structurlam and Smartlam, both of which seemed uninterested in a project of our size.
So while I careen through the contacts and consultants associated with these various CLT suppliers, I am still left wondering if CLT is even feasible on a project of this size.
I have done my own glorified napkin sketch budgeting that tries to take into account both the cost and the savings associated with CLT. For example, assuming we are using CLT as the finished interior surface, the following trades can be eliminated or greatly reduced using CLT: drywall and painting. This is not insignificant. Furthermore, by prefabricating the walls, floors, and ceilings and cutting rough openings for doors, windows, and skylights right into the CLT panels, we are eliminating almost the entire wall, floor, and roof framing package. And if we do everything right and rout out electrical chases and plumbing openings, we are greatly simplifying and hopefully finding cost savings in our electrical and plumbing packages. Lastly – and this is where I get into pretty murky territory – by employing a tight, massive wall system, I believe I am introducing thermal efficiencies which will pay off over time in terms of increased occupant comfort and reduced energy costs. These last benefits, however, are far harder to quantify.
OK, so I'm left with the puzzle of how to compare the cost of building our home with CLT with some sort of framed construction. First of all, there is a near-zero chance that we will revert to conventional code-minimum stick built construction, so I basically need to figure out what the alternative to CLT would be in order to have something to compare it to without comparing rotten apples to organic oranges. So what is my "organic apples" wall system that I can use to compare to my "organic oranges" CLT system. I can't say I have settled on just one… but if CLT is a no-go, I believe we will be looking at a double stud wall filled with cellulose, or perhaps a modified PERSIST wall with rock wool on the exterior, or perhaps a 2×6 Advanced Frame Wall Construction with Mineral Fiber Insulation Board, which in fact may be considered, perhaps, a PERSIST wall for more moderate climates.
Double stud comes highly recommended from many sources, particularly many great posts at greenbuildingadvisor.com, and from Building Science Corporation: ETW: Wall – Double Stud Wall Construction. However, when I see the double stud wall detailing, particularly at doors and windows, my head immediately goes to eventual leaks, and reliance on fancy tapes and membranes.
The PERSIST wall is appealing because in some ways it mimics the thinking behind the basic CLT wall design in that it has interior structure/service cavity with all the insulation to the exterior. The downsides is that it has none of the structural advantages of CLT. One option with the PERIST might be to create an internal structure and sheathe with tongue and groove. I recently saw this method at Hitchcock Center for the Environment, built by Wright Builders, which is constructed of timber frames with T&G outboard of that, followed by recycled foam insulation, followed by cedar siding.
The question starts becoming how can one reasonably get an estimate to construct a non-traditional wall from a local contractor? One thought I have as I'm writing this is that any of the alternative walls proposed here will cost roughly twice a conventional wall in terms of labor, and then the material costs will be what they are.
The question, in each case, is: are we laying complexity into the wall to the point that it becomes untenable from a cost or constructibility standpoint…
Call me crazy, but after all of this AAC and CLT research, the 2×6 Advanced Frame Wall Construction with Mineral Fiber Insulation Board outboard is starting to look mighty cost effective and appealing. Stay tuned.


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The HistoryRead more
High-tech. High quality. High performance.
It's no secret that consumers in the likes of Japan, Korea and China are some of the most sophisticated when it comes to beauty innovation.
The advancement in their beauty routines has often led to a constant flow of innovation, meaning their devices are high-tech, high quality and highly effective as a result.
From powerful anti-ageing technologies to tone and tighten your complexion to hair removal devices that allow you to say goodbye to unwanted hair for good, learn, browse and shop Asia's leading beauty devices at CurrentBody.
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Want to know exactly how the technology inside your device works? Or the secrets to getting the best results?
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Our CEO says...
"It has always been our mission to bring the best of beauty technology to our customers. After recently expanding into China, we realised that there was a whole host of game-changing beauty brands that are incredibly popular with eastern consumers.
Whilst some of our leading brands such as Tripollar, Smoothskin and NuFACE continue to grow their audience in China, it is the emergence of 'local' technologies that have seen the biggest rise over the last 12 months - setting the stage for the arrival A-Tech.
Just like the emergence of Korean beauty, are we seeing the emergence of a whole new range of beauty devices."
Meet Irene...
Originally from China, CB Society member Irene takes her inspiration from her Asian roots when it comes to her skincare.MEET THE SOCIETY


text: Sports No. 3 Mililani pitches shutout against No. 4 Kahuku By Paul Honda firstname.lastname@example.com Aug. 17, 2019 Mahalo for supporting Honolulu Star-Advertiser. Enjoy this free story! JAMM AQUINO / firstname.lastname@example.com In a key play, Mililani's Micah Kim forced a fumble by Kahuku's Frisco Aveau during the first quarter of Friday's game at Mililani. On a night when the potent Mililani offense mustered just 128 total yards, it was defense and special teams that made the mission possible. Read more Mahalo for reading the Honolulu Star-Advertiser! You're reading a premium story. Read the full story with our Print & Digital Subscription. Subscribe Now Read this story for free: Watch an ad or complete a survey Log In Already a subscriber? Log in now to continue reading this story. Activate Digital Account Print subscriber but without online access? Activate your Digital Account now. On a night when the potent Mililani offense mustered just 128 total yards, it was defense and special teams that made the mission possible. Brendyn Agbayani fired two touchdown passes and No. 3 Mililani limited No. 4 Kahuku to 93 total yards in a 32-0 win on Friday night at John Kauinana Stadium. It was a game that also had three field goals by Mililani's first-year starter, Kaulana Navares. Kahuku linebacker Alan Talanoa suffered an injury with less than three minutes left in the second quarter. He was taken by ambulance to a hospital. Coach Sterling Carvalho said Talanoa was moving and the trip to the hospital was precautionary. PHOTO GALLERY >> Mililani vs. Kahuku The game also involved the ejection of three Kahuku players following a turnover on the first series of the second half. Carvalho said one of the players was not on the field and the team will appeal. Ejected players face the possibility of an automatic one-game suspension. "We call it controlled chaos," said linebacker Mark Pasternak, who recovered a fumble caused by teammate Wynden Hoohuli on the play that led to the ejections. "Our goal was to not let Kahuku run the ball. For the most part, our guys were able to get it done," Trojans coach Rod York said. Kahuku tried mightily, but mustered just 27 rushing yards on 28 attempts. "We've got to get better. We'll evaluate what we did wrong. We've got a lot of football ahead," Carvalho said. "Our goal is to peak at the right time." After going three-and-out to begin the game, Mililani's defense sent Kahuku backward on three consecutive plays. Sonny Semeatu sacked quarterback Mana Fonoimoana-Vaomu in the end zone for a safety and a 2-0 lead. Kanoa Gibson's 41-yard return on the ensuing free kick set up the Trojans at the Kahuku 30. Agbayani launched a 31-yard touchdown strike to Mystik Sampaga on a post route, and they led 9-0 with 7:09 to go in the opening quarter. Mililani made breaks happen on special teams. After Micah Kim forced a fumble by a Kahuku punt returner, the ball caromed into the end zone, where Kiai Ramos recovered for another Mililani touchdown with 3:33 to go in the opening quarter. Navares' first field goal, a 30-yarder, made it 19-0 with 4:57 to go in the first half. Kahuku gained some momentum with a quick-strike series to open the second half. However, Hoohuli sacked quarterback Tiger Adolpho, who fumbled. Pasternak recovered for Mililani at the Trojans' 44, and after a big pile-up and fracas, three Red Raiders were ejected. Two personal fouls on Kahuku during the play moved the ball to the 14. On the next play, Agbayani lofted a sideline pass to Malosi Sam, who dove over the left pylon for a 14-yard TD. The Trojans led 26-0 with 8:28 to go in the third quarter. Navares tacked on field goals of 35 and 38 yards in the final period. Kahuku's' defense was solid, allowing just 128 total yards. Sam, who barreled Campbell for 259 yards and three TDs on 43 carries last week, had a modest 18 yards on eight carries in the first half. He did not carry the ball after halftime. — No. 3 Mililani 32, No. 4 Kahuku 0 At John Kauinana Stadium >> Kahuku (1-1, 0-1) 0 0 0 0 — 0 >> Mililani (2-0, 2-0) 16 3 7 6 — 32 Mililani — Safety, Sonny Semeatu sacks Mana Fonoimoana-Vaomu in end zone Mililani — Mystik Sampaga 31 pass from Brendyn Agbayani (Kaulana Navares kick) Mililani — Kiai Ramos fumble recovery in end zone Mililani — Navares FG 30 Mililani — Sam 14 pass from Agbayani (Navares kick) Mililani — Navares FG 35 Mililani — Navares FG 38 RUSHING — Kahuku: Zealand Matagi 8-29, Mana Fonoimoana-Vaomu 7-9, Jason Mariteragi 1-6 Lailo Kaluna 4-2, Jack Tito 3-1, Tiger Adolpho 5-(minus 20). Mililani: Malosi Sam 8-18, Arona Sagapolutele 2-12, Josiah Alcover 5-1, Brendyn Agbayani 2-(minus 17). PASSING — Kahuku: Tiger Adolpho 6-19-0–59, Jason Mariteragi 2-3-0–13, Fonoimoana-Vaomu 1-1-0–(minus 6). Mililani: Agbayani 16-26-1–119, Sagapolutele 1-3-0–0. RECEIVING – Kahuku: Cole Pruett 3-42, Micah Carvalho 1-16, Elias Matagi-Magalei 1-10, Matagi 1-5, Kaluna 1-3, Kaonohi Kaniho 1-(minus 4), Kade Nakaahiki-Bourgeois 1-(minus 6). Mililani: Mystik Sampaga 3-46, Sam 2-15, Kai Banks 2-14, Koa Kalama 2-13, Pono Hookano 2-10, Kanoa Gibson 2-4, Nik Geraci 1-7, Ransen Motoyama 1-5, Raysen Motoyama 1-5, Alcover 1-0. * Junior varsity — Kahuku 6, Mililani 6 Previous Story Going to the Cowboys-Rams game? Arrive early, pack light Next Story Scoreboard


text: Last Sunday one of my dreams came true-I painted poppies right smack dab in a field of poppies. No I wasn't in Tuscany, these brilliant poppies were located right before the Emerald Isle bridge. What a gorgeous day to paint with the OOPS group, better known as Onslow Outdoor Painting Society.


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Best Gym Bags Reviewed & Rated for Quality
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
It should go without question that the quality of the materials is one of the most important aspects of evaluating any product or brand. You see, understanding what a product is made from could speak volumes regarding the quality of the product and the quality of the brand.
Typically, the best gym bags in the game are made from the following:
Quality cloth
Patented materials
In this, when it came to locating different products, the first thing we studied was how it was made and what it was made from. If we found any that were made from cheap or synthetic materials, chances are, we skipped them.
One of the most important criteria has to be durability. Simply put: how long will a bag last. I mean, the last thing you need is having your brand-new gym bag snapping or breaking after heading to the gym once. With that being said, durability is directly related to the quality of the materials, which we covered above. Evidently, the better the materials used, the longer a product will last. In this, since we talked about the materials above, we are going to share some more information regarding how we, as consumers, can learn a bit more about how durable a product may be.
So, during our research, we actually took the added measure to really looking at how the manufacturer talked about the product. We wanted to see whether or not companies talked about the durability of their product and even whether or not they offered any assurance that their product would last for a specified period of time (typically in the form of a warranty or guarantee). In addition to this, we looked at the hundreds of different consumers reviews for each product and really specialized in looking for comments regarding the longevity of the product.
As consumers, we all want to be comfortable when walking around or traveling to the gym. So, when it came to picking these 10 for you today, we really looked at how comfortable the bag was to carry. This entailed studying whether or not the brand included a strap, whether the strap or hand strap was padded, and what type of padding or cushioning it was.
We can tell you that the brands that we found today are all known for the quality invested in comfort. These should all be quite enjoyable to walk around with, not presenting any major discomforts or problems.
Let's all be honest – we like our gym gear to look good. No one wants to purchase a pair of gym shorts or shirts that are ugly or plain. If we can find one that is stylish, has a cool golfing design, or a unique innovation, its better than a simple, plain piece of clothing. The same can be said for that of gym bags. What we noticed is that there were two different types of bags:
Stylish with color options
Standard bags in one color
In efforts to provide you with an opportunity to add some color or personality to your gym collection, we really tried to offer diverse options. As you will see on our list today, many of the brands designed their products to look visually appealing, which was a huge plus in our book.
Top 10 Picks
1. Adidas Diablo
As the first product, we want to share this excellent item for individuals that want a quality gym bag or sportswear carry bag. If you happen to not have enough space in your golf bag and you want a small bag to take with you on the course or need a durable and excellent bag to take to the gym, we recommend the Adidas Diablo Small Duffel Bag. Here are two features to consider this product.Read more
Compact With Space
This product happens to be a small bag. At the most, it can fit some clothing, gym gear, golf balls and maybe shoes. With that, one of the greatest benefits is the fact that it happens to be extremely compact. Compact also means that it is comfortable to carry and easy to take with you anywhere due to the minimal size or carry load.
Durable Material
This product happens to be highly durable and comfortable to take with you. This product is of the best quality and individuals are guaranteed a product that is designed to last. This bag is made of 100% polyester and with that, individuals are guaranteed a durable product that can withstand the test of time, perfect for on the go gym runs or going to the golf course.
Cost and Value
To discuss cost and value for this product, we want to share that this happens to be one of the best-designed bags in the industry for the price. This product is a stylish and high-quality item that comes in a wide variety of colors so individuals get to choose. With this, the bag has over 1.5k reviews, further adding to the overall quality of the bag. Alongside this, individuals are ensuring an excellent experience with this product.
2. Under Armour Undeniable 3.0
This next product is known as a high-quality duffle bag that is designed for multi-purpose. Whether you need a great travel bag to head to the golf course, or a quality product that can easily carry all of your essentials for the gym, we want to share the Under Armour Undeniable 3.0 Duffle Bag. Here are two quality elements to consider this excellent product.Read more
Excellent Brand
This brand is known as one of the highest quality brands to consider in the sportswear industry. Their products exceed all expectations due to design quality and excellence. With that, this item is actually built from their UA Storm technology craftsmanship that ensures a water-resistant and abrasion-resistant product, which is an excellent feature for a duffle bag.
Adjustable and Padded
Among the excellent features of this product is a fully adjustable and padded shoulder strap that is excellent in design and features. Made for total comfort, individuals can expect the HeatGear shoulder strap to be highly durable and well stitched. With this, all areas of this product are well designed, from the large vented pockets to the mesh pocket and even zippered organization.
Cost and Value
Overall, all we can say about this excellent product is that it does not disappoint. This item is a high quality and durable duffle bag that is great for gym goers, golfers, and travelers. With that in mind, this brand offers this product in a variety of color choices and even sizes to choose from so individuals are not limited to the size.
3. Nike Brasilia
This next gym bag is a quality product that is also designed by one of the top name brands in the sportswear industry. We want to share the Nike Brasilia Medium Training Duffel Bag and share with our audience two excellent features of this quality product. Here are two aspects to consider of this specific item.Read more
The Core Design
The core design of this product is made to be a high-quality core that is durable, water-resistant and designed to withstand the test of time. With this, the bottom of the bag is the most durable aspect and individuals can expect that all of their essentials will be safe and guarded inside of this excellent product.
Main Compartment
This product has an excellent compartment design. The design of the main compartment is a durable and high-quality open compartment that ensures that everything will be easy to place inside. With that, the interior handing pocket also ensures that it will be easy to secure small items, making it an excellent product for the easy storage of small products.
Cost and Value
To discuss price for this item, we want to share that it happens to be made by a top of the line brand that focuses on quality and convenience. With this in mind, this product comes in a variety of color choices and even includes a dual handle, padded shoulder strap, and plenty of convenient carry features. The price also makes it practically a steal.
4. Everest
This next product is a durable and high-quality gym bag with plenty of excellent features to consider. The Everest Gym Bag with Wet Pocket is simple to carry, extremely durable, and individuals are guaranteed a quality bag that is designed to last. If you want a bag with plenty of pockets for the golf course, this is the one to get. Here are two features of this product.Read more
The Pockets
Now, this is somewhat new to this list, but this product definitely has many more pockets than many of the bags we have shared. This product comes with a spacious main compartment and a zippered clamshell opening as well. Alongside this, it comes with two front zippered pockets and even a mesh pocket for added comfort.
Padded Hook and Loop
If you want quality and comfort, this is the product to get. This item is designed with a padded hook and loop close handle that is easy to carry and makes it very comfortable. Alongside this, the stitching is excellent and allows for a very comfortable and quality experience when using this product. Overall, individuals can expect that this bag can handle the weight that goes inside of it.
Cost and Value
To discuss the price for this bag, we are amazed at how well priced it is for the excellent level of security, quality, and design. With that, the reason other bags tend to be more expensive is that you are also paying for the premium name and the brand. With that, this item comes in five color choices and it is priced to be one of the most reasonable and quality bags to consider.
5. Kuston
This next product happens to be made from an excellent and highly durable exterior construction material. The Kuston Sports Gym Bag is perfect for individuals that want a quality product and a design that is high quality and very durable. Here are two features to consider of this travel-friendly gym bag.Read more
Oxford Fabric
The exterior is not polyester, it is not cotton, and it is not leather. The exterior happens to be an anti-theft breathable exterior known as Oxford fabric. This level of quality exterior design ensures that the product is durable, waterproof, and even resistant to long-term wear and tear. The fabric gives it a jean-like feeling that you feel can last a long time.
Multifunctinal Pockets
One of our favorite aspects of this product is the pocket space. This product comes with multifunctional pockets that allow for individuals to easily carry plenty of important items ranging from a cell phone to a wallet and even a keep essential. With this, individuals are guaranteed an excellent and quality product.
Cost and Value
To discuss cost and value for this item, we want to share that this happens to be one of the most convenient travel and gym bags in the industry. Made for both men and women, this product is great for shoes, sports gear, golf gear, and individuals that want an excellent travel companion. Overall, we highly recommend this product if you want a great quality and resistant bag.
6. Sprinter
This next product is an excellent item for individuals that want a quality easy to carry gym bag. This product is known as the Spring Small Sports Bag and it comes with plenty of pocket space in a cute and simple design that is also highly durable. In fact, this item has close to five stars throughout.Read more
Great Ventilation
This is very new for us to talk about, but this product is made with Exovent Ventilation which happens to be an excellent and high-quality mesh ventilation that allows for odors to escape the bag. Their motto is, "look like you went to the gym, not like you smell like it." With that, the ventilation allows for all shoe and clothing odor to escape the bag easily.
Durable Professionalism
Part of what makes this item one of the highest qualities is that it includes one of the most durable fabrics in the industry. This product is made from durable 600 deniers ripstop nylon fabric, which happens to be what most tactical gear is made from. With this, the ripstop nylon fabric is reinforced with a quality stitching that is stress-free on all points.
Cost and Value
To discuss cost and value, we can see why this is such a high quality and durable product. This item is virtually made from some of the highest quality materials in the industry. With this, individuals are guaranteed an excellent product that is durable, comfortable, easy to carry, and convenient. More so, it has quality features that we can truly appreciate.
7. Rocoke
This next product may be one of the most modern looking while also offering quality and dynamics into the mix. This item is made from a durable and high-quality Oxford fabric and has a slew of quality features that make it an excellent product as far as benefits and design. Here are two features of the Rocoke Travel Duffel Bag and what individuals can expect from this product.Read more
The Design
The design of this product makes it a simple to carry item that is high quality and highly beneficial. More so, it has quality stitching in the areas that matter the most alongside an adjustable strap that is removable and padded. Overall, the design is portable, travel-friendly, and very easy to carry.
The material quality of this item is what makes it highly noticeable and well worth the price. The exterior of this item is a waterproof fabric that is high quality and comes with a durable and protected bottom. With that, the fabric is also stain-resistant and is very easy to clean. The top layer is water-proof, with the interior being cushioned for safety and quality.
Cost and Value
To discuss price for this item, we want to share that this product is excellent when it comes to benefits and security. Alongside this, the durable and high-quality design is very simple and well executed. For the price, this product happens to offer excellent value and individuals can expect it to be well worth the price.
8. Reylo
This next item skips past the sporty looks and turns the traditional gym duffle bag into a unique and quality stylish bag. This product has a beautiful color-block design that makes it high quality and durable. With this, the thick design acts as a shell fabric to enhance the durability. Here are two features of the Reylo Small Gym Duffle Bag.Read more
Nylon Fabric
The fabric of this product is of the best quality. The fabric is a nylon fabric with a polyester lining that ensures the toughest level of durability. With that, it also has a genuine leather handle and quality stitching to ensure individuals the longevity of the product. The fabric acts as a water-resistant exterior that protects all the contents really well. Alongside this, nylon is known for its level of quality and durability.
Quality Design
The design of this product is of the best value. The design is a quality and simple design that ensures maximum quality features. With that, this product is the best duffle bag for golfers that want to use it as a gym, golf, or travel bag due to the level of quality and beautiful design. Overall, it is one of the highest quality designs in the industry.
Cost and Value
As far as cost and value, this product appears to be well worth above the price. In fact, this is one of the most affordable duffle bags and it looks well worth hundreds of dollars. In fact, this product has five stars in reviews due to the quality and the design. It happens to be of the best quality and we highly recommend it.
9. Starter 21"
This next product is an excellent duffle bag for individuals that want a quality and durable product. Made for individuals that want an excellent product made for durability and easy carry, we recommend the Starter 21" Duffle Bag, which is designed to be sporty and great for wear and tear. If you want a gym bag or golf bag, this is the one to get.Read more
Two-Stretch Mesh
This product has an interior lining with mesh pockets that are designed to be durable and of high quality. The pockets include a large zipper interior pocket and mesh interior pockets for enhanced sportiness and benefits. With this, there is also an external shoe pocket to keep shoes apart from other clothes and items.
Sporty and Simple Exterior
The design of this product happens to be a very simple and sporty design that is exclusive to this brand. The exterior is a simple and durable design made of 100% polyester that ensures the product will be able to last a long time. With that, the zippers are stitched well, and the overall quality is made to be for active individuals.
Cost and Value
To discuss cost and value, we want to say that this is one of the most durable, but also functional bags in the industry. What it lacks for in the design and aesthetic appeal it makes up for in functionality. With this, the durable design and build quality make it great for individuals that want plenty of carrying space and pocket space in one simple design. For the price, the functionality is worth it.


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So, I'm participating in a life coaching program called Creative Alchemy Passion Plan by Kathy Kawalec, who is, oddly enough, a dog trainer. She participates in open level sheepdog trials with her border collies.
Today, one of the members of the group posted a quote attributed to Neil Gaiman. I found his original post here.
The part of this post that my fellow creative alchemy student mentioned is this:
"I hope that in this year to come, you make mistakes.
Because if you are making mistakes, then you are making new things, trying new things, learning, living, pushing yourself, changing yourself, changing your world. You're doing things you've never done before, and more importantly, you're Doing Something.
So that's my wish for you, and all of us, and my wish for myself. Make New Mistakes. Make glorious, amazing mistakes. Make mistakes nobody's ever made before. Don't freeze, don't stop, don't worry that it isn't good enough, or it isn't perfect, whatever it is: art, or love, or work or family or life.
Whatever it is you're scared of doing, Do it.
Make your mistakes, next year and forever."
This works in so perfectly with my current daily devotional subject of fear. The specific devotional is a 14 day plan on Bible.com called Fear is a lie. In today's reading the writer argues that fear is a learned response in some cases, therefore can be unlearned. The writer says the first step in unlearning fear is to identify individual fears.
Failure, you could say mistakes, topped my list. But Mr. Gaiman's reading gives another way to think of failure. As, well, not failure. But a mistake. A learning tool. Something useful. Another way to approach the task at hand. Or not approach it. Maybe the mistake will lead to a wonderful discovery.
My favorite line in Mr. Gaiman's quote above is this: "Whatever it is you're scare of doing, Do it."
Does fear inhibit you in pursuit of your dreams? What techniques do you use to just do it afraid? How do you break the hold when you feel fear has you in its grip?


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The best blogs are, in my opinion edgy satires to elicit laughs (cheap or otherwise—it doesn't matter). However, given the state of affairs today, that's just about impossible. That's the main reason that I haven't been writing as often.
Depression is anger turned inward; aggression is anger turned outward. Humor is supposed to be anger turned sideways, but in today's world, the outrageous is not satire, it is, instead, normal. If I were to satirize today's world the ridiculous would include:
- Elected officials who run for office to work for the common good, then return to their regular lives.
- An internet that does not permit trolls to anonymously abuse everyone and every thing.
- Moral values that emphasize family and service to others.
- Leaders who build businesses that create jobs, contribute to the common good, and reward the entrepreneurs for their ingenuity and effort.
Alas, none of those scenarios are funny. So instead of writing satire, I'm working on a dystopian story in which the protagonist is dead—more or less. You'll have to hope that I finish the story someday and share it, if you want to know what that means. (Although I have toyed with the idea of publishing it in serial format, just as Sherlock Holmes was serialized in The Strand mystery magazine, but I just don't see a demand.*)
The more-or-less dead guy story is not funny, but it's better than any current events I have to work with for the blog.
* But, then again, if I had an illustrator like Sidney Paget, I might reconsider. He helped bring Doyle bring Holmes to life.


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On 7th September 1316, King Edward II issued orders to Beverley to arm the whole male population between ages 16 and 60 against the Scottish threat.
On 7th September 1643, Sir John Hotham was taken from the Tower of London to Parliament to be formally ejected from his seat as MP for Yorkshire.
On 7th September 1646, Sir Michael Wharton of Beverley, considered a Royalist (delinquent) for attending a meeting at Heworth Moor addressed by the King, was fined £4,000 in order to recover his goods which had been sequestered by Parliament. His fine was reduced in 1652. photo shows Warton's Hospital, Keldgate, Beverley.
On 7th September 1854, Robert Isaac Wilberforce, vicar of Burton Agnes and Archdeacon of the East Riding, resigned his Church of England posts and joined the Catholic Church. Robert was the second son of William Wilberforce. Of William Wilberforce's 4 sons, 3 converted to Catholicism and Samuel Wilberforce Bishop of Oxford, then Winchester, was an extreme Anglo-Catholic.
On 7th September 1866, Bull lightship in the Humber was struck by the Prussian barque Emma Johanna and damaged, holed below the water-line. It was taken to Victoria Dock, Hull for repairs by Hull Trinity House.


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Pension funds are secretly meeting to cut pensions…
Much too hilarious to pass up!
This Is America:
While the corporate mass media and the alternative media are focused on the recent Oregon Militia Shooting, there is another Oregon crisis that goes unnoticed.
The severe homeless crisis in Oregon continues, and it is cold!
Latest interview explaining how free energy will free all mankind!
Thousands of individuals marched in Athens against pension reforms…
Social unrest is developing in Greece as worker Unions have called for a general strike on February 4th, 2016.
This is an original music video made by kilez, that has been subtitled in English. It provides a historical view of the battle for Hegemony and the chaos that it has been creating.
Speaking in Washington yesterday Saudi Ambassador Adel Al-Jubeir said the six GCC nations plus four other countries were involved in the attacks. He refused to name the four other countries, but they are Egypt, Pakistan and Jordan and the United States. The U.S. stated today that it was providing "logistics and intel."
Last month Houthi rebels ousted Yemen's President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi. Hadi was a Western puppet who allowed the U.S. to conduct massive drone strikes against alleged al Qaeda positions. The rebels are pro-Iranian nationalists.
President of the National Assembly, Diosdado Cabello, commented on the sanctions issued Monday by the U.S. government to Venezuelan officials. "Nothing is out of context," he said.
He also warned that the U.S. plans a "military strike" against Venezuela.
The ECB (European Central Bank) decision to strike Greek bonds off its list of accepted collateral caused European shares and bonds to fall…
The IMF delayed providing the loans to Ukraine as promised and that led to food panics and the collapse in the currency.
Affidavits are provided to assist in apprehending officials and former officials of crimes.
Bush, Cheney, Clinton, Obama and their associates are named in sworn affidavit. They illegally funded and created the Department of Homeland Security…
Maduro needs money fast as the six-month, 56 percent plunge in oil has derivatives traders betting there's a 75 percent chance that Venezuela will default in a year and 97 percent probability that it will happen within five years. -bloomberg.com
The report is an indictment of government in the United States at every level. The UN criticized the United States for not cooperating with the investigation and providing full information.


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SPD Kraken Koffee + All Terrain Enamelware Mugs
Produced with traditional methods using a heavier gauge steel sheet for base metal and a dipped enamel for the outside shell. Our enamelware mugs are produced using World War II era tooling and machinery and creates a mug that will stand by you on all of your life's adventures in the wilderness to the workshop.
Whether a single origin siphon or instant packets, this 16 oz enamelware mug is big enough to handle whatever your first round of morning brew might be. Also known to be a field expedient vessel for a few fingers of single malt. From cozy cabin, to rooftop tent, mountain bivouac, and the workshop, the PDW Enamelware Mug is built to last and features an extra coat of enamel where it is needed most, around the rim. These mugs are made in the EU with old school methods that make it a classic and useful accessory on any adventure. Our distinct graphics are displayed on 3 sides with our "Kraken Koffee" on one side, "All Terrain" on the other, and our company's marks on the bottom. Available in black, with ivory rim, red accent and sky blue interior. Drink hearty Ladies and Gents.
Price as shown is for a pair of mugs.
- Enamel Coated Steel
- Hight: 3.75"
- Width: 4"
- Capacity: 16 oz.
- 11 oz. Each
- IGNEM FERAM Graphic
- All Terrain Graphic
- PDW Logo on Bottom
- The EU


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Most of us know our sun sign or sign of the Zodiac, but what does the constellation look like in the night sky, and what's the story behind it? The season is the reason. It's time to meet Virgo again, and get to know her better.
Virgo Season 2021
This year we entered the zodiac territory of Virgo 22 August and will stay there until 22 September. Virgo is a mutable Earth sign representing the cooling weather as we approach the end of summer and the beginning of autumn in the northern hemisphere (or the end of winter and into early spring in the southern hemisphere.)
It is harvest time- 'the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness' (From An Ode to Autumn by English poet John Keats) Virgo represents the classical Hellenistic goddesses of wheat and agriculture. The brightest star in the constellation of Virgo, far brighter than our own sun, is Spica, aka 'the ear of wheat'.
Virgo the Maiden, named after the constellation as shown in the illustration below, is the sixth sign of the zodiac, and rules the concepts of work, service, order, practical intelligence, food, harvests, health, digestion, hygiene, and routines.
Virgo is traditionally ruled by Mercury, planet of communications, inquiry, science, commerce, trade and travel. This symbolic planetary influence brings to the Virgo-born subject, an enlarged curiosity and a combination of analytical ability, but also a certain contemplative or even mystical quality.
Common Associations
Date: August 23-September 22
Symbol: The Virgin
Element: Earth
Quality: Mutable (Sagittarius and Pisces are also Mutable, suggesting these subjects are capable and versatile; generally inclined to conform and go with the flow for the greater good.)
Ruling planet: Mercury (Travel and all forms of communication)
House: Sixth, ruling health, habits and routines
Colours: green, white and yellow
Body: The digestive system
Birthstone: Carnelian
Flowers: small bright flowers such as the buttercup
Tarot: Major Arcana card: The Hermit (introspection, perception, analysis, care for nature)
Minor Arcana cards: The 8,9 and 10 of Pentacles or Coins.
The zodiac sign of Virgo gets its name from the constellation of Virgo; the second-largest constellation in the sky after Hydra, and the largest constellation in the zodiac.
It's mind-boggling to consider that our own Sun is just one star of the Milky Way, and the Milky Way is part of a collection of galaxies known as the Local Group. This contains three large spiral galaxies: the Milky Way, Andromeda, and the Triangulum Galaxy, as well as a few dozen dwarf galaxies. The Local Group is just one member of the Virgo Cluster. This is a collection of 1200-2000 galaxies that stretch across 15 million light-years of space. And the Virgo Cluster is just one cluster in the Virgo Supercluster.
Virgo is visible from all around the world. In the northern hemisphere, Virgo is most visible in the evening sky from mid-March – the start of the planting season- to late June. In the southern hemisphere, look for it in the autumn and winter.
This may seem a bit of a stretch, trying to picture a person here, but add in a few more of her stars and imagine her lounging semi-recumbent, dangling a sheaf of wheat from one hand, Spica, a blue-white giant. Its name is from the Latin meaning an 'ear of grain'- a sheaf of wheat. Vindemiatrix, 'the Grape-Gatherer,' seen at daylight, was once upon a time a sign that now it was time to pick the grapes.
But if the constellation of Virgo is most visible late March- late June, why are the birthdates for the sign of the zodiac August 22-September 23rd?
Zodiac constellations are not to be confused with the signs after which they were named. This difference in timing is due to the effect of the Earth's wobble over a long period of time; every 26 000 years, creating an effect known as the precession of the equinoxes. Once upon a time, the dates of the signs reflected the dates of the constellations directly overhead, but have since separated. This does not change the symbolic link between the constellation and the sign named after it. Western or Tropical astrology is based on an arithmetic, not an astronomical model, as formalized in the second century AD by the Greek astronomer, mathematician and astrologer, Ptolemy.
History & Mythology
Shala was an ancient Sumerian (Iraq) goddess of grain -and also compassion. Why link these two things? Famine is suffering. A good harvest was seen as a blessing of the gods. What is planted in the spring must yield a crop in the autumn or famine follows. But this cannot be guaranteed from one year to the next.
From early times, more than ten thousand years ago, Shala was associated with the constellation of Virgo and vestiges of symbolism associated with her continue, such as the naming of Spica, the 'ear of grain', even as the deity's name changed from age to age, and culture to culture.
The Shala Mons is a mountain on Venus named after the goddess Shala.
In 10th century BC the Babylonians called part of this constellation, "The Furrow," again, referring back to Shala.
While this is only one myth of the origin of Virgo, she is seen as a bringer of crops throughout all myths. In Egyptian mythology also, the arrival of Virgo in the night sky meant harvest time.
Ceres (think of the word 'cereal') or Demeter, Greco-Roman goddess of the harvest, was the mother of Persephone.
It was the same with the Greeks and Romans "Spicifera est Virgo Cereris" — "The Virgin with her sheaf belongs to Ceres," The Astronomica", Manilius, 1st century AD.
When lonely Hades abducted Persephone to live with him in the underworld, her distraught mother, Demeter, earth goddess, went searching,and was enraged to discover that Zeus had known all along where Persephone was, and had turned a blind eye to Hades' abduction. She demanded his assistance, went on strike and no crops sprouted or flourished. That year the harvests failed and people and livestock starved. Humanity might have died altogether had not Zeus intervened. He insisted that Hades send Persephone home, and sent Hermes to collect her. Hermes discovered, not a wretched weeping girl, but a woman, a wife and a radiant queen, the apple of Hades's eye,and he had built for her the most beautiful gardens that the underworld could contrive, with underground pools and gems and stalactites. She loved Hades. However, Persephone did miss her mother, and she desperately missed the light, and Hades agreed she could go home, but said that Persephone must not eat until her return.
Hades had no intention of giving her up so easily and purposely gave Persephone a pomegranate, knowing how much she loved them, and she ate some of the seeds on her way home.
Persephone was sent back to her mother, but a deal is a deal, and because of the pomegranate she returns to the underworld for four months every year and then Demeter mourns, winter returns and the land lies cold and fallow.
The Virgo Archetype- Personality
All zodiac signs are archetypes, meaning something that is considered to be a perfect or typical example of a particular kind of person or thing,
The zodiac signs paint a 'typical' portrait of a person born at a particular time of year, in a particular season. A baby born in summer for example, arrives into a different physical environment from a winter born baby, varying temperatures, the available hours of daylight and so on, with a range of potential effects.
The archetype of Virgo is the Craftsman, paying careful attention to every detail, taking pride in doing the job, whatever it is, to the highest standard possible. There's no substitute for skill and hard work, according to Virgo.
The major arcana card in the Tarot representing Virgo in total is The Hermit, as previously mentioned, denoting a deep-rooted sense of connection to Nature. Here is wisdom, maturity and the value of solitude and self-sufficiency. The Hermit represents work and the idea of service – the desire to help Humanity.
Virgo is ruled by agile Mercury, the fastest moving planet of communication, and Virgo sign's brain is in overdrive most of the time, but grounded in common sense by their associated element, Earth.
Virgos are practical but artistically gifted. They are hard-workers who love to better themselves. They think deeply, they love to analyse, and their perceptiveness means that they can always find or create order within chaos. They are honest friends although, being discerning, and analytical, they might have a tendency to analyse you, and point out your strengths and also your mistakes and weaknesses. This can undoubtedly be annoying, though it's well meant. They may also give great advice because of those same analytical abilities.
Their appearance is generally neat, well groomed, well kept nails. Slob is not in their vocabulary. Their quest of self-improvement includes personal presentation. They can be incredibly concerned about the impression they give, and even worry about it, but at the same time, they are very ready to help others, maybe sometimes even too generous. Some may try to take advantage.
But of course there is no such thing in reality as THE Virgo personality. We are all unique individuals. Your zodiac sign (also known as your sun sign) is a major clue, a keynote, but it's by no means claiming to represent the full picture in real life – or even in astrology.
The Decans however, will tell us a little more.
What are the Decans?
The decans were a feature of Egyptian astronomy, later adopted by the Greeks and incorporated into astrology.
The visible area of sky as seen from earth is what we call the wheel of the Zodiac, and represents an imaginary circle of 360 degrees. This circle divided by arithmetic into twelve 'slices'- the zodiac signs we are familiar with today.
Each of the zodiac signs represents a 30 degree slice of this imaginary 'pie in the sky,' as seen from Earth. Each zodiac sign can be further sub-divided into three blocks of ten degrees, equivalent to about ten days in length. This is not exact, and may vary by a day or two because not every month is the same length. These three sub-divisions of all the zodiac signs are what we call 'decans,' from the Greek word for ten.
The decans are known as the 'thirty six faces of astrology,' and provide added insights and texture. The first ten days of your zodiac sign are the first decan. The second ten days or so are the second decan, and the last ten days are the third decan.
There is more than one decan system, depending on whether we are using traditional or Modern astrology, which uses the outer planets, not discovered at the time of the original model of Western astrology as recorded by Ptolemy in the second century AD.
Some astrologers may dispute which approach works 'best.' But astrology is not an exact science. It is an Art with an element of science. They both 'work,' and it is worth bearing in mind, the great seventeenth century astrologer William Lilley used traditional astrology –correctly- to predict the Great Plague and Fire of London in a book published in 1651, years ahead of the actual events in 1665-1666, when the outer planets, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto had not yet been formally discovered (Uranus was recorded in 1690, Neptune in 1846 and Pluto in 1930).
For the avoidance of confusion, we are using the traditional system.
The Tarot cards shown below are from the Rider- Waite deck, which many Tarot practitioners now refer to as the Waite-Smith, in recognition of the artist, Pamela Colman Smith.
First Decan Virgo
Dates: 23 August-1 September
Planetary ruler: Sun
Tarot card: The Eight of Pentacles: 'Lord of Prudence,' art, craft, industry, skill, concentration, application, studiousness, apprenticeship, crafts, heritage, buildings
Look at him. This person is absorbed in his work, and he seems to be enjoying himself. This work has meaning and purpose for him. This is typical of this decan. There is a mixture of quiet warmth and a cool mind with a talent for acute observation and incisive analysis; however this is expressed artistically, commercially or scientifically or in administrative tasks. Virgo is a master of the spreadsheet.
They see more than they say, but they have a talent for communication via the spoken and written word; making many of these subjects potentially great teachers. They are hard-working, industrious. 'We reap what we sow,' goes the old saying. This is not necessarily always true or fair. Misfortune strikes plenty of people who have done nothing to 'deserve' it. And plenty of wrong-doers escape justice.
However, it is broadly true to say, we can't reap what was never sown. Wild berries had to be first sown by the wind or by birds. First decan Virgo understands this better than almost any other sign, except Capricorn and Taurus.
They are serious but cheerful company, faithful friends and partners, devoted in their quiet way.
Second Decan Virgo
Dates: 2-11 September
Planetary ruler: Venus
Tarot card- Nine Pentacles: 'Lord of Material Gain' beauty, luxury, hard work that pays off, horticulture, agriculture, viticulture, gardens, vineyards
This decan is traditionally associated with Venus, planet of love, beauty –and money. A perfectionist; conscientious, devoted, and above all focused, they can turn anything they do into an art form in its own right.
Notice the hooded falcon on her wrist. She has 'tamed' wildness – or chaos. She has cultivated a home, a garden, a business, and made it thrive, healthy and beautiful. She is financially self- reliant and self-sufficient, but this does not mean it came quick or easy. To achieve this she has learned to control the wild falcon representing her impulses, wants and desires. She has learned self-discipline and self-control, the power of deferred gratification.
A squirrel will have no nuts in the winter if it scoffs them all at once, or couldn't remember where it hid them, because it wasn't paying attention. This, the second decan of Virgo is often the most capable, conscientious provider for themselves and for others, and they enjoy spoiling their loved ones. But though they have learned to do without (and at times in their own life, they probably had no choice) still, they do value beautiful things.
Third Decan Virgo
Dates: 12-22 September
Planetary ruler: Mercury
Tarot card- Ten of Pentacles: keywords: 'Lord of Wealth,' commerce, messages, deliveries, Hermes, home, homeland, ancestry, genetics, inter-generational relationships, inheritance, gifts, legacy, bequests, town planning, art, museums, banks.
Third Decan Virgo is both a creative and a practical thinker. These are proud people, not vain, but dignified – big difference. They need to be their own masters and it's not about the money, or at least, not for its own sake. These people are careful, prudent, but they are not misers. They have a winning way with people and may work in the public eye; such is their talent for communication; personal, professional, artistic, written and spoken.
Notice the old man surrounded by family, adults, children, and dogs too. Virgo cares for animals. What he or she has built, was created in order to share, to pass on, seeing themselves as part of a bigger picture, a link in a chain of legacy. This could mean money. It could mean ideas. It could mean a place that means everything to them, their own home or their homeland, with a sense of belonging, of being in the right place – to feel this way is a treasure beyond price.
These are family minded people, realists with an optimistic temperament and a 'can do' approach. They enjoy family outings, a walk in the woods, or a trip to the seaside. They will organize it. Virgo are makers and menders, and usually good with animals too. Eco-warrior is not their style. But they do care about the environment. Virgo is about food for the mind and the spirit, as well as the body.
Virgo has both feet on the ground. And yet, it is something of an artist, something of a scientist. Like the Hermit himself, something of a sage.
Grounded, rooted in the earth, but looking inwards and upwards, moving to its own dance, steering by some quiet inner star.
Till next time.
For more about the decans: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decan_(astrology)
For more about The Chaldeans: https://erenow.net/common/astrology-and-religion-among-the-greeks-and-romans/2.php


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UK Earthquake In Pics
19 yr old David Bates had to be taken to hospital after a chimney collapsed into his bedroom and broke his pelvis.
The wrecked ceiling of next door neighbour Kleber Afonso's house in Wombwell.
Rubble from a collapsed chimney stack is cleared in Selby, North Yorkshire.
Insurance experts said claims for structural damage and broken belongings were set to run into tens of millions of pounds.


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I just received comment in my blog from Andersen Hitches. It seems they have improved the coupling device on their hitch by adding a funnel which guides the ball hitch into the coupler. This makes hitching up far more easy and gives a little room for "slop" when hitching up. I know that this feature will definitely be a benefit to me personally. 🙂
Here's what the hitch comes with…
You can see the new addition of the funnel and how cleverly designed it is. It just bolts on the receiver assembly which bolts to the kingpin of your coach.
Not sure if owners of existing hitches can fit these to their units but it would appear you could add it easily. If the size of the aluminum billet hasn't changed then this would be a no-brainer addition.
You can see that once fitted on the kingpin of your coach, it will be much easier to hitch to your tow vehicle. You can be 3 inches off-center in any direction and still hitch up easily.
Andersen seems to be an innovative company that keeps refining and enhancing their products. I think my mind is made up. I'm going Andersen Ultimate 2… too!
NOTE: I've received no promotion or incentive from anyone to write this article.


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Kestrel is the general's daughter in an empire that is constantly seeking out new territories and enslaving those they conquer. As such, she can either join the military, or get married. However, neither option appeals to her. On instinct in the market one day, she bids on a defiant slave and ends up winning, bringing him home unexpectedly. What is even more unexpected is the way she begins to feel about this slave, Arin, who seems to have his own secrets.
This is one of my favorite books from this year so far! There are so many different elements to this story and the way the world is built in this book is phenomenal. Kestrel's people took over the land that Arin's people had long inhabited and turned his people into slaves. They actually took over their former homes and claimed them as their own. Since Arin's people did not have a great military presence they were unable to fight back successfully, and those who were once nobles in their society were forced to become slaves just like the rest.
Kestrel seems to have much more of a moral compass than her father and the rest of the empire. She also is very strong, and not just because her father forced her to train with weapons since she was a child. Her intelligence and wit is what makes her strong, and she is able to out wit almost anyone, even when her life is at stake.
This story is told from both Arin and Kestrel's perspective, and what this really serves to do is allow the reader to get a glimpse into the secrets Arin is keeping. Therefore, we learn what is really going on before Kestrel does, which makes the story even more interesting. This was definitely a smart narration choice because it kept me biting my nails wondering how Arin was going to reveal the truth to her. Arin himself is a very complex character–he is old enough to remember his previous life before slavery and he is educated enough that he can speak the language of Kestrel's people, which gives him an advantage. Despite their obvious differences and conflicts, Arin and Kestrel begin to fall for each other, unfortunately at a very inconvenient time.
Overall, The Winner's Curse was an exciting read that kept me on the edge of my seat. This was definitely one of the best books I've read this year so far, and I can't wait to read the next one in the series!
The Winner's Curse was released on March 4, 2014 and is the first book in The Winner's Trilogy.


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A group of young entrepreneurs at Sunset High School has earned the campus a Gold Level Certification for their work operating and managing the school store.
Sunset teacher Marcus Nickerson leads the DECA School Store class that researched and wrote a 37-page report on the school-based enterprise (SBE). The report details everything from the cash flow, profit/loss margin, inventory tracking and marketing plan for the business. Students in the class also operate the store through positions such as barista, financial clerk, store manager, and inventory specialist.
DECA, a student organization that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs, recognized Sunset High School and 359 other school-based enterprises with its Gold Level Certification. This is the first time a Dallas ISD school has received this recognition, Nickerson said.
This past weekend, the students competed in DECA State Career Development Conference and received a Certificate of Completion for the store. In late April, three of the students will travel to California for DECA ICDC (International Career Development Conference. The students will attend the SBE Academy and compete in the retail operations competitive event based on the school store promotions indicator. The students will also receive the Gold Level Certification Plaque to be displayed within the school store.
"These students have put in tons of work and dedication into the school store and project, and I couldn't be more proud of them," Nickerson said.
The students who earned the Gold Level Certification are:
- Alexis Ortiz- V.P of Leadership
- Victoria Mendoza- President
- Chris Deluna – V.P of Finance
- Britney Montes
- Priscilla Contreras- V. P of Hospitality
- Angel Martinez
- Damian Perez
- Samantha Morales
- Fredy Valenzuela
The SBE at Sunset High School has operated for more than 10 years. A SBE is an entrepreneurial operation in a school setting that provides goods and services to meet the needs of the market.
SBEs are managed and operated by students as hands-on learning laboratories that integrate National Curriculum Standards in Marketing, Finance, Hospitality and Management. Marketing educators and DECA advisors have utilized this effective educational tool for over four decades to provide their students with realistic and practical learning experiences that reinforce classroom instruction, enhance 21st century skill development, and prepare students for college and careers.
DECA's School-based Enterprise Certification Program was developed to provide recognition for outstanding achievement by school-based enterprises and to motivate SBEs to strive for excellence and growth. SBEs can be certified at three levels: Bronze, Silver or Gold.
In order to apply for the certification, SBEs must submit extensive documentation that demonstrates their adherence to various marketing and retail standards. After the documentation is submitted, a review committee evaluates the documentation to determine which level of certification has been achieved.


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Catch up, catch up! That might be what this adorable dragon is thinking as he whizzes off to the "very lovely birthday party" his artist says he's attending. This is Daily Doodle Birthday Dragon by Canadian professional artist Katie Shanahan, posting as ktshy. Today, October 22, is my wonderful husband's birthday, and I loved Katie's additional caption:
NOTE: If today happens to be YOUR birthday then consider this my birthday card to you!
Isn't that nice of her. I could not keep this blog even anywhere near the rails, let along only careening off them every once in a while as I have been lately, without the love and support of this man I have now been married to for seven years. Here's to many more, sweetie!
Katie hasn't done very many more dragons, but she has co-created some great web comics, and there are dozens of entries for my favorite one called Simply Potterific "about Harry Potter, his friends, and mishaps." Here's an example called Tragically Sirius, but you can find all of them in order at that first link.
Katie also co-created the Shrub Monkeys comics which "stars [Katie] and [her] siblings (and whoever else tickles our fancy) and showcases random situations or thoughts nabbed from our everyday lives." They compiled these comics into a printed book you can check out as well.
You can see more at Katie's gallery, check out her official tumblr website, read more of her webcomics over at Silly Kingdom, or even follow her on Twitter if you like.
I think that's it for this post, thanks for reading, take care and stay creative!
Image credits:
Daily Doodle Birthday Dragon by Katie Shanahan
Simply Potterific 09 by Katie Shanahan


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By Auldyin
Bedfordshire, United Kingdom
Can anyone tell me how to get my conifers (ley) to grow right to the ground, they have been there at least 5yrs and I keep them topped at about 10 - 12 ft thankyou for any responses
- 6 Nov, 2010
If you mean Leylandi, I'm afraid they do tend to develop a bare stem at the base as they get older, it's the nature of the plant.
6 Nov, 2010
You can get them to stay fuller at the base by cutting them so they are narrower at the top than at the bottom, rather than just straight topping them, but that's a prevention. To the best of my knowledge, once they go bare, there is no cure.
6 Nov, 2010
Agreed. There are few things which will grow close to a leylandi but I'm told Eunymus emerald Gaiety or emerald Gold will cope in the dry shade and you could use this slow growing shrub to cover the bare patches at the bottom of the leylandi
Cut and paste the link into your browser and then click on the small photos to get them to enlarge
7 Nov, 2010
Previous question


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'The Drew Barrymore Show' coming to WMBF on Sept. 14
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WMBF) - "The Drew Barrymore Show," the one-hour nationally syndicated daytime show hosted by Drew Barrymore, will premiere on Monday, Sept. 14, at 3 p.m.
Drew kicks-off the launch of TheDrewBarrymoreShow.com with a special video message announcing her upcoming full digital lineup including docuseries "The Making Of The Drew Barrymore Show," "The Art of the Interview," "Drew's Cookbook Club" and "Drew's Movie Nite," according to a press release.
"I'm really looking forward to this digital world we are about to bring you into," said Barrymore. "A series that's very near and dear to me is called, 'The Making Of…' I have been on this show journey for a year. We started in 2019, it is now 2020, a very different year. And what that year-long journey has been like, where were we, where are we now and how did we get to where we are going. I'm really looking forward to telling you that, in a storytelling way."
Full digital series announced include:
The Making of The Drew Barrymore Show: In this docuseries, Drew takes viewers behind the scenes and shares an honest, raw and emotional look at the making of a daytime show shining a light on this extraordinary journey during an unprecedented time.
Drew's Movie Nite: Drew hosts her first #DrewsMovieNite featuring family favorite "Good Burger," and will be joined by stars of the movie Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell who dish on making the classic hit, as well as rockstar Chef Alvin Cailan, who shares how to make your very own good burger right at home. Join Drew for a live viewing party on Twitter @DrewBarrymoreTV on Thursday, July 30th at 8:00PM ET/7:00PM CT. Viewers can watch "Good Burger" on Nickelodeon or stream it.
The Art of The Interview: As she steps into her new role as daytime host, Drew sits down for one-on-one in-depth conversations with hosts who inspire her including Gayle King, Andy Cohen, Jimmy Fallon, Whoopi Goldberg, Sean Evans and more.
Drew's Cookbook Club: As an avid cookbook reader and collector Drew shares her passion for cooking with a fellow foodie as they swap recipes, share tips and whip up dishes for viewers to create at home along with them.
For more information on "The Drew Barrymore Show," please visit:
Website: www.TheDrewBarrymoreShow.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/TheDrewBarrymoreShow
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheDrewBarrymoreShow/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedrewbarrymoreshow
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrewBarrymoreTV
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/thedrewbarrymoreshow/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedrewbarrymoreshow
Snapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/add/drewbarrymoretv
Copyright 2020 WMBF. All rights reserved.


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Trade and investment brief on the Philippines
The British Embassy in Manila has prepared a trade and investment brief on the Philippines, available here.
At present, about 200 British companies are now doing business in the Philippines, including CBI members such as Unilever, Shell, HSBC, Standard Chartered, AstraZeneca, Diageo, Arup, JCB, John Lewis, Costa Coffee, Rider Levett Bucknall, and Marks & Spencer. Please see the below highlights for a snapshot of several CBI members' in-country activities:
- With more than 20 years' worth of experience in the Philippines, CBI member Arup has established itself as an industry leader in seismic engineering in the country. The firm's track record includes industrial facilities, tall buildings, and infrastructure. For example, Arup is providing structural, wind, and seismic engineering services for the Grant Hyatt Metrocentre, which will be the tallest and biggest mixed-use building in the country. Please read more here.
Images (L to R) John Lewis enters the Philippines, Arup's Grand Hyatt Metrocentre, Rider Levett Bucknall's Eton City South Lake Village, Shell Malampaya gas project & Unilever supports inclusive growth)
For more information please download UKTI's T&I Summary below:
Download Philippines Trade & Investment Summary Jan 16
China Direct would like to thank Mike Moon and the UKTI team in Manila for kindly providing this summary.


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The gifts that are tailor-made for particular individuals for particular occasions are called personalised gifts. In the United Kingdom, people seem to prefer personalised gifts to standardised gifts. Personalised gifts can be given on various occasions - birthdays, anniversaries, graduation, and celebrations like Christmas, to name a few.
The idea of personalised gift is very simple. Writing the person's name on the birthday cake is a simple example of a personalised gift. The good thing about a personalised gift is that it lets the recipient feel that he/she is not given just one of those items produced in hundreds or thousands.
The recipient can be your partner, your child, a friend, your neighbour's little baby, or just about anyone. Usually people try to make sure that the gift given is something unique. Not only will it have some marks of the receiver, such as his or her name, but also it will be something that is suited to the interests and personality of the recipient. For example, a 12-year-old boy who is an ardent fan of Andrew Flintoff would love a cricket bat bearing a picture of his favourite player.
Among the various kinds of gifts people give, engraved gifts are particularly attractive. The fact that a beautiful object is engraved on an attractive material, say crystal, is aesthetically pleasing to many. For instance, your favourite quotation or a replica of your favourite painting can be engraved on crystal or copper. You can consider giving someone a unique and personalised engraved gift, which would make the recipient feel absolutely special.
Babies are a special category of gift-recipients. The kinds of occasions on which babies are given gifts include baby shower, your first visit to the newborn baby and family, and the baby's christening. Starting from the time before they are born up to the time they start walking, babies can be gifted with a variety of items like clothes, shoes, chocolates, soft toys, and blankets.
Although babies may not be fully-grown persons, they can also be given personalised gifts. If you gift a baby with a Harry Potter soft toy and if pressing a button would make Harry shout the baby's name, the baby and its parents would be delighted.
The last part of the year is a tremendous party time in the western hemisphere. There is business galore for 'Xmas gifts'. What many merchants seem to overlook is the fact that most people prefer some personalised item as a gift. Suppose you are someone who likes to bicycle even in winter and your significant other, who is on a trip to Germany for a conference, sends you an outdoors jacket just suited for cycling. Wouldn't that make you happier than receiving a standard Christmas gift?
This kind of gift also comes under personalised gift. It is its uniqueness that makes it personalised. The gift may not bear your name on it; still this gift shows your partner's concern and understanding of what precisely would make you happy.
From: Gift Guide