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ON SALE for $2.99
A Brilliant Ride
A Brilliant Ride
by Lisa J. Mitchell
A Brilliant Ride by Lisa J. Mitchell is ON SALE for $2.99 (save $3.00) to 5 September. Take advantage of this offer while you can.
Penelope's "pinch me" lifestyle is proving a lot more stressful than she anticipated. Suddenly murder is the new game in hoity-toity Chatsdale, and Penelope and her upper crust clique are fearing for their lives. With two murders, betrayal, dark secrets and a philandering husband, she's going to need more than a cocktail to propel her out of the madness. Enter Brilliant, a dreamy hero with a halo. With his zany zest for life, unconventional tactics, and gentle encouragement, Penelope realizes there's more to life than country clubs and designer handbags. Join Penelope for the ride of her life as she sets out to create her perfect dream come true.
Mitchell uplifts and entertains with side-splitting humor in this magical story of one woman's journey to find true love, passion, and take control of her destiny. A Brilliant Ride is a fast paced romp filled with mystery and intrigue, hilarity and inspiration. This laugh out loud story encourages women to have a little fun, have a lot of faith, and believe in their dreams.
"Faith consists in believing when it is beyond the power of reason to believe."
It's a crisp autumn day and I'm sitting with my three closest girlfriends at the Regal Rock Bath and Tennis. And I'm learning a lot. Evidently Pinot Grigio is a very potent truth serum.
"Jackie, please…pull yourself together," I said and pushed another tissue into her shaky hand. "Come on, it's ludicrous. Ted doesn't have the guts to change the part in his hair. He would never venture into The Bucket."
"That's the hottest club in New York, very Rock 'n Roll A-list," Claudia added while surveying the Regal's extensive menu.
"I'm locked in a nightmare," Jackie whimpered, her sharp chin quivering like jelly.
"Just stop. You're being paranoid. Honestly, for the past two years you've done nothing but complain about how boring the man is. Just yesterday, you said you'd rather watch butter melt than spend another minute with the 'Milky Drip." I suppressed a giggle.
"That's true, Jackie. You did say that," said Phyllis.
Like a pin to the eye, a vision of Ted burning up the dance floor hit me, and I winced. "Surely you're mistaken." I patted her jumpy hand. The last time I saw Ted he was wearing thick tortoise rimmed glasses, chinos pulled up to his breast bone (cinched
in with a narrow canvas belt embroidered with tiny pink crustaceans), and strappy rubber sandals…with socks. Need I say more?
"Please tell me you're kidding."
"I'm not," she sniffled, her puffy green eyes brimming with tears.
Jackie, a gorgeous redhead with piercing green eyes, was this week's excuse for a pow-wow. She put out the 911 to discuss an earth shaking disaster, her husband Ted…better known as the "heel." And trust me, when Jackie calls, people jump. She's a force - like a Twister- and always, and I mean always, gets whatever she sets her sights on. The fact that she walks all over people to achieve her desired result is something I personally overlook…I try not to be under foot.
Jackie is a knockout. She's super-duper glamorous, wisecracking, and colorful - her mannerisms expertly exaggerated, her speech purposely drawn out and magnificently affected. In short…she looks like money. Even her walk screams trust fund.
We met years ago at a splashy New Year's Eve party on the Upper East Side. Back then, she was considered the new "it" girl within that tightly woven set known as New York Society. Coming from the well-known Stacker family, a line of oil magnates who made their way to New York after the Big Crash (a welcome installment with their bags and bags of Texas cash), Jackie had that particular kind of refined flirty sexiness that comes from southern stock, combined with the slick polish of Manhattan's Upper East Side.
After a lengthy (boozy) stint on NYC's party circuit, Jackie spent a year in Paris pursuing her dream - creating a "big" name for herself in the art world. During this time, she enjoyed a brief marriage to a wealthy older gentleman who lavished her with the finery of France and allowed her to dabble in various art forms, which in Jackie's mind included getting her hands dirty…sculpting a number of male models. The marriage was not successful and promptly ended when Monsieur Chantel, sufficiently embarrassed by Jackie's artistic ventures, wrote a sizeable check to ensure her removal from his chateau and his life. She was successful, however, in making a name for herself…not one I can repeat.
So, Jacqueline Stacker Chantel promptly returned to New York, opened her own gallery, filled it with her own abstract works, and enjoyed the "artistic" side of the swinging city (where anything goes). I vividly remember her first exhibit. She dominated the floor resplendent in a shimmering gold halter dress, her flaming mane rippling down her back, as paparazzi snapped away feverishly trying to capture the sought after Socialite in all her fiery glory. The collection, entitled Amour Darling, was startling as well…ten massive canvasses streaked with red and black, a psychedelic orgy of irreverent strokes.
"That two-timer!" Jackie's voice echoed, causing the cream of the crop to turn and stare.
Mrs. Nugent Lillygrass shot us her very best look of disdain, and Claudia retaliated by flashing her dazzling emerald cut in her direction. "Take that!" she mouthed and smoothed her sleek blonde bob with a purr. It seemed to put the old dowager in place.
"Teddy has been living a double life," Jackie wailed. "It's true, I'm telling you. I've been finding things…you know…evidence."
My eyes widened in amazement as Jackie ticked off her list of clues.
"Credit card statements, phone numbers, hotel bills, gift receipts, and a set of keys which - SURPRISE - don't fit my lock!" She drained her Pinot.
"To top that off, last night I found a pack of…condoms."
"No!" Claudia gasped in a theatrical manner and held her heart.
"It's true," cried Jackie. "And after my recent procedure…there's no need for that kind of thing!"
"We're going to need more wine…"
"Please. I must have been delirious; I never should have left The Upper East Side. I should have known better…what was I thinking…moving to the sticks? My life has become a stagnating waste," she moaned and threw her perfectly manicured hands up in the air. "We should all be back in New York. Culture to these hillbillies (Jackie looked around at the blank faced, blasé women enjoying the Regal's particular ambiance and sneered) is band night in front of the public high school, or a poetry reading at the Garden Club by that dinosaur, Audrey Freehope. What are we doing here? What the hell were we thinking?"
"Darling, we do not live in the sticks; for crying out loud, Jackie."
"Hardly," Claudia said, trying to convince herself.
"Well, this suburban hell hole is getting on my nerves, so damn boring. No wonder; even boring Teddy thinks it's boring. My life is in the toilet," she groaned.
"Oh, daaaaaarling, we're in shock…utter shock. We had no idea."
"It's been agony; total misery!"
"You're a saint…Mother Theresa."
"He doesn't deserve me; I'm too good for him."
"Are you jumping…?"
"Er, I mean to conclusions," I said shifting in my seat.
"Yes, darling, I mean, you married him because he was safe, remember…not like the others?" Claudia and I exchanged a knowing glance.
Safe in Jackie's book meant a man she could leash and dominate into puppy dog submission (spending every dime the helpless slob had), whilst convincing him he was without a doubt the luckiest man on the face of the earth to be in her company, not to mention her bed.
"Oh, who would want him?" my words tumbled out. "Er…I mean, you're always saying he's…lackluster."
"He is! He was! Oh, you never know, do you?"
"No red flags?" I asked, twisting my wedding band.
"Here's a red flag for you. Sources tell me he's been to every nightclub in town - with a tween! Imagine that! He must be some kind of professional con artist or something."
"Yes, sources," she wailed and snapped her bread stick in half.
"We are total Splitsville!"
"I don't believe it," Claudia replied, slipping her small gold compact out of her handbag. She surveyed herself with a smile and traced her upper lip with her pinky, ensuring her shimmery nude lipstick was perfectly placed. She then took another moment to admire the enormous diamond studs drooping from her lobes. Happy with her pristine reflection, she purred and clicked the compact closed, then tossed it back into her monogrammed satchel. "It's just a blip," she said plainly.
"Oh yes, Claudia's right, it's just a passing thing," said Phyllis, her eyes locked on a waiter with a large silver tray. "Yums…has anyone tried the artichoke tart?" she queried and licked her puffy glossed lips. "I'm absolutely famished."
Jackie wasn't having any of it and let out a long, exaggerated sigh followed by another swig of wine.
"Hey, I know," Phyllis squealed, "maybe the two of you should sign up for that Tantric weekend?"
"Oh yes…it's all the rage," said Claudia brightly.
"You've been?"
"No, but I hear it's very liberating..."
"Oh, Jackie, it's the answer. It'll teach Teddy a little self-control…if you know what I mean." Phyllis winked.
"Please, I'm nauseous." Jackie held her stomach and moaned. "My colitis is starting up." A faint gurgling sound emanated from her direction.
"Tantra sounds like the spiritual version of S&M," I said. "I think it's dangerous."
"Oh loosen up, even Frank's gotten into it," replied Phyllis in that surreal matter-of-fact way she uses when discussing something totally off the wall.
"Frank? Ha, ha, ha…that's hysterical. You're, kidding, right?"
She wasn't. Phyllis is what you would call progressive. Free from inhibitions, she's colorful to say the least. A middle-aged, old money, debutante turned hippie, she's perpetually outfitted in pricey, theatrical ensembles purchased at the finest boutiques on Madison Avenue. Trust me; these costumes have a sort of exotic chic not many can pull off…sort of Vogue meets Tofu Daily. She's gutsy (or delusional, I'm not quite sure). She thinks nothing of popping out to the grocery in a chartreuse sari, feathered headband, and a pair of 6-inch platform heels, bravely combating the raised eyebrows of conservatives by rubbing her third eye and whispering an affirmation.
I should point out that money - a lot of money, especially old money - allows for a broad array of quirky and irrational behaviors. This could explain Phyllis' carte blanche attitude when it comes to self-expression...and wardrobe.
Aside from her diverse attire, Phyllis is really quite pretty. She's petite - sort of waif-like - with very long, dark, stick-straight hair, large brown eyes that always seem to be open too wide, and a smile that turns up ever so slightly at the ends, giving the hint of a delicious secret- sort of Mona Lisa gone psychedelic.
Phyllis has been married to Frank Triola for the past four years. Jackie says he's a character (gangster) straight out of the Goombah Chronicles. I think he's a big softy. Frank's in Oil, as in Olive, and made an absolute killing when everyone got on that Mediterranean kick. He's a large, gregarious man and a little rough around the edges. That said, he's only tolerated at the ultra-snobby Regal Rock because he's married to Phyllis, who, as everyone knows, is one of the Cowl heirs…as in Cowl Necks …billions there.
"He's a BOOB," Jackie's voice sounded out like a bugle, snapping me back with a jolt.
"Shhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!" Mrs. Carrington Johnson put one arthritic finger up to her pursed blue lips and raised her eyebrow high, while her cronies loudly cleared their crinkly, bejeweled throats. "Do you mind," she creaked.
In response, Claudia narrowed her eyes like a mosquito zeroing in for a sting.
"Those old bags should be on treadmills instead of sitting here throwing canapés down their turkey necks; their triglycerides must be sky high." Raising her glass up, she toasted the sour looking group, "Bottoms up."
"Oh, but Claudia, my darling, not everyone has your kind of self-discipline," Phyllis sang and placed her hands together, slowly bowing to Mrs. Johnson's table. "Namaste," she whispered.
"Please. That battle-axe, Johnson, gives me a pain. She thinks she's all that after she got her band."
"No, Lap...how else do you think she dropped all that weight?"
"Oh, Claudia, you're a hoot!"
Claudia grinned broadly and leaned forward, adjusted her gazillion dollar tourmaline enhancer, pointing it directly at Mrs. Carrington Johnson for added leverage. Her eyes flashed as the geriatric group turned away, humbled by the imposing piece of jewelry. "That should shut them up for a while," she grumbled.
Claudia uses her astounding arsenal of jewelry like weapons of mass destruction. And, trust me, she has a ton of it - amazing jewels in every shape and color from the most famous design houses in the world. Half of her immense collection was handed down from the generations of grand women in her iconic family…the rest is from Paul, who spoils her senseless. She has a special temperature controlled room with glass showcases and elaborate alarm systems just to store all the bling - totally state of the art.
Aside from her love of gems, Claudia is very passionate about staying in shape. Thus, she is the self-proclaimed jock of our coterie. I mean, she's a total fitness fanatic, obsessed with being in the best physical condition a person could possibly be in, spending hours perfecting her body and her circulatory system. As a matter of fact, she was the first person in our township to acquire her own private, personal fitness trainer. Of course everyone has one now, but back then it was quite sensational. We would all drive by to sneak a peek when three times a week he rolled up on his Hog in front of her large French Normandy with the swirling twin turrets, wearing black leather chaps over his athletic wear…very motivating.
In contrast to Phyllis' Mona Lisa in sari look and Jackie's Technicolor beauty, Claudia is icy. She has a trendy beige appearance - hair, face and eyes representing different shades of pale; the perfect canvas for showcasing her rock collection. She's married to a very successful plastic surgeon, Paul Peterson - the nip and tuck man to the Stars. Jackie says he can make anyone look twenty years younger, and she should know…
"Oh, damn!" Jackie's false eyelash fell into her Pinot Grigio, and she fished it out with her dessert spoon. She looked at the damp thing, which resembled a drowned spider, and started to cry again. The whole thing looked so pitiful; I closed my gaping mouth and reached out for her hand. Like Claudia, she too was bejeweled, adorned with a massive, intricately carved gold ring with a large blue stone set in the center. It was new; at least I had never seen it before…a bit gaudy for Jackie's taste, I thought.
Her outfit, on the other hand, was killer. She was tightly wrapped - leaving little to the imagination - in an exquisitely cut black cashmere dress. I tried to calculate the time and expense involved in Jackie's total look. Not only was she draped in luscious cashmere, but her perfect size six feet were adorned with gorgeous black suede pumps featuring four-inch Lucite heels. A hefty silver cuff hung from her small wrist, and a matching - very large - organic shaped brooch was pinned high on her right shoulder. Mental note to me: search for Lucite heels.
As I took it all in, I could feel envy quickly casting its spell on me, dragging me deeper and deeper, until…
"Beauty lies within…Beauty lies within," a voice rang through my head. I glanced around the table nervously and shifted in my seat.
"Look within," the voice thundered.
There it is again!
Trying to compose myself, I took a deep breath and ran my fingers through my freshly glazed hair. Clay, my hairstylist, insisted it was the color of the season…Sunny & Share. The name sold me.
I gave it a little flip and tried to focus.
"Perhaps an aura cleansing…or no…better yet…an ear coning!" That was Phyllis, distracting me from my inner clamor. "You know…a buildup of wax can lead to pressure on the brain, which can sometimes cause irrational behavior." Her eyes widened.
"Um, Jackie," I cut Phyllis off, "it's not like you to be so insecure, darling. Maybe you should hire a private investigator. You know, have Ted professionally followed. There's probably a very simple explanation, and until you have something solid - you know, concrete proof - I don't think you should fall apart like this."
"Yes; totally!" added Claudia, a look of excitement shooting across her face. "You need dirt…"
After a twitch and a look that could peel paint, Jackie whipped around and summoned the waiter with a quick flick of her porcelain hand. Within seconds he was at our table.
"Yes ladies. What can I get you?" He stood at attention, like a soldier, his back straight as an arrow. "May I suggest starting with a steaming tureen of octopus bisque…or a nice salad…perhaps field greens with pecorino shavings?"
"More wine!" Jackie bellowed.
"Yes, of course, madam."
"I'll just have a plain salad to start," I said, reviewing the menu.
"Yes madam; Radicchio, Mesclun, Watercress, Endive, Escarole, Arugula, Swiss Chard or Dandelion?"
"Lovely choice…and for your main course, madam? May I suggest our Paupiette of Black Bass, in a lovely caviar and wild root sauce, with a side of truffle risotto?"
"Can you repeat that?"
"Pen, please! We'll be here all day," Jackie growled.
"Sorry…I'll have the salmon, grilled."
"For you, madam…anything." His eyes twinkled.
"What's with this guy," Claudia whispered out of the side of her mouth. "I'll have the soup and seared tuna - not too well done," she said flatly, giving him the once over.
"Bring me a steak," Jackie roared, "and make it rare."
"Indubitably." The waiter clicked his heels and smiled.
"I'll have tofu," said Phyllis.
"Tofu, madam?"
"Just tofu?"
"Yes. And more Pinot."
"Very well. Your wish is my command," he sang and turned on his heel.
"That took long enough…" Jackie grimaced.
"You'll feel so much better after you eat something, you'll see." I squeezed Jackie's hand.
"Yes; your blood sugar is low," Phyllis added.
"Oh look. There's poor Cathy Greenheart."
We all turned and waved.
"Oh dear. She looks haggard."
"Well, it's no wonder. I heard she had to sell her entire Hermes scarf collection."
"Yes, can you imagine? It's too awful to think about."
"She lost every dime in that Ponzi scam," Claudia whispered.
"Do you think she's had work done…?" We all turned to scrutinize.
"Definitely. Thank God she had that done before she went broke."
"Oh yes…thank God."
"Well. It's a good thing she has deep, caring friends like us." We waved again and smiled.
"Absolutely; we must make it a point to take her out for a manicure or something…"
"Oh yes. And let's send her a gift…something useful…like a silver tray or monogramed napkins…"
We put our heads down for a moment of silent reflection.
I took advantage of the solemn moment and surveyed the club. It was autumn, and the Regal was packed with Club Ladies, most likely chatting about fundraisers, the popular fall fashion show, or where they were spending the holidays. I wondered how many tables were discussing philandering husbands…Probably 75%; I estimated.
Over to my left, I spotted the Regal's manager, Charles, casually walking over to a table of chatty women with the house phone in his hand. Color drained from my face as I watched him hand it over to a woman idly rifling through her handbag…but not just any handbag.
No - holy moly macaroni - the handbag of all handbags!
The holy grail of handbags!
The gold standard!
The TIGER!!!
Divine intervention! My foot tapped uncontrollably. The coveted Tiger Bag! My eyes glazed over as I was instantly whisked away into the land of extravagance and beauty, imagining ownership of the magnificent work of art and the respect and envy it would undoubtedly demand…like knowing the secret handshake. Oh, the doors that would open if it were securely tucked under my arm. My mind raced like a runaway train. That bag is soooo gorgeous.
My name is on a wait list, with about 5,000 other women, all of us more than happy to dish out barrels and barrels of cash for the sensational accessory. Its stripes mesmerizing and bringing out the animal in me, I envisioned the rectangular bag with its genuine 14kt gold chain link handle and matching tiger's head closure by my side, and let out a little "roar."
"What? Pen, did you say something?"
"Oh, er…yes, bore. Ted is such a bore," I quickly replied.
"Beauty lies within…beauty lies within…," the annoying voice boomed through my head again.
"Oh, enough, already," I said loudly, pulling at my collar. If only that voice would stop nagging at me.
"Pen, what are you going on about?" Phyllis asked with a puzzled expression.
"Er…enough speculating," I blurted out. "It's going to turn out to be something innocent…you'll see. You can't fall apart like this." I cleared my throat loudly and picked at my cuticle, my eyes locked on the superb masterpiece. I wonder if the Tiger has a matching wallet. Oh, oh…and a card case, and maybe a cell phone holder, a makeup bag and a…lipstick holder! I made another mental note.
Jackie was staring at me, the gold flecks in her green eyes dancing around like tiny flames. I gave my Sunny & Share a nervous flip and tried my best to ignore her.
Meanwhile, Claudia darted her eyes over to the Tiger and kicked me hard under the table.
"Beauty lies within, beauty lies within…" Ahhhhh, it's that voice again. I shook my head, trying to lose the haunting chant, but it was useless.
"Darling, have you seen my new Salvatore Caracas?" Claudia pulled my attention back. "It's a dream." Her eyes twinkled.
"Salvatore Caracas!" My ears perked up like a bunny.
She pointed to the pale pink scarf casually draped over her shoulder and purred.
"Oh my….it is dreamy." I put my hand out hoping to feel the exquisite piece of silk.
"Oh yes. It's a one of a kind…and signed! Paul got it for me when he was in Barcelona, at that Botox convention. Darling you know Salvatore Caracas is just…."
"Excuse me!" That was Jackie, her voice hitting a new high. "It's all about me, today…remember?"
"Er….yes, sorry…"
"Well, if you ask me," Phyllis said flatly, "I think you should try clairvoyant counseling. It might give you some insight into Ted's psyche," she shrugged her shoulders.
"Psyche, you mean psycho! Earth to Phyllis…Teddy has gone over to the Dark Side! Keep up for God's sake." Jackie contorted her face and put her glass down with a thud. A splash of wine hit the crisp white tablecloth, and I noted how some stains, even small ones, have the capacity to keep growing…seeping in deeply - very hard to clean up.
"Maybe marriage counseling…Sam and I..."
"Oh Pen, give me a break," Jackie groaned. "Honey, you need to take the rose colored glasses off. Wake up and smell the perfume…"
"Excuse me?" I shifted in my seat, feeling incredibly self-conscious.
"Jackie, you really need to calm down. Your aura is so murky," Phyllis pulled her pashmina around her shoulders. "It's going to take you days to balance and cleanse," she said. "You really should look into some relaxation tapes." She flipped her hair casually.
Reaching boiling point, Jackie shot her a look that could kill and mumbled something about vegans. "Look," she blew out hard. "It's just…you're sooooooo damn sweet, Pen. I wish you weren't so naïve, for crying out loud." The vein in her forehead popped out and she massaged it with her slender fingers. "Oh I'm sorry. It's that cradle robber, Ted. He has me in a state of emergency!" Her electric green eyes flashed like neon lightning bolts.
"Well, hire the P.I. and get some facts before you go septic," I mumbled, avoiding her glare.
"Yes, of course, Jackie. Pen is absolutely right," sang Phyllis. "That's exactly what you should do!" I watched with amusement as Phyllis picked up her monogrammed R.R.B.T. damask napkin and carefully polished her 14kt gold peace sign pendant. "My family has everyone followed," she said, admiring the pendant's shine.
"Oh yes. It's standard practice. They've got people following people following people. You can never be too safe."
"Er, that's encouraging," I mumbled, distracted by the loud buzz of conversation from nearby tables. The Regal was jam packed. Glasses clinked, diamonds sparkled, and laughter could be heard bouncing off the chintz covered walls. If only these walls could talk, I thought, and smiled to myself. After all, Chatsdale, and the Regal in particular, is the stomping ground for a unique circle of elite upper crusts…escapades are plentiful. If the outside world were privy to some of the shenanigans going down in this insulated haven, lives would be ruined. Fortunately, faux pas are kept under wrap. You see, the crème de la crème are a clannish group, and what happens in their hoity toity circle, stays in their hoity toity circle. Every measure is taken to insure an impeccable reputation.
Of course, this is a privileged level of protection. You can't buy your way in or bribe your way in. You're born into it. Outsiders, or worse yet, nouveau riche are simply not tolerated in this highbrow arena. One can marry in, but that offers a much lower level of protection, a sort of limited Membership, if you will. Money is no guarantee in. Only a very select few are guaranteed admittance into this world of the pampered and privileged. There are two criteria: noted blood line and a certain level of education. For instance, your trust fund could be skint and your heat turned off, but if your family has a good name and you graduated from a good school, you're in like Flynn. I know this, because I was born with a silver spoon in my mouth and Capwell blood running through my veins. Something Mother never lets me forget.
Don't get me wrong, it's not a bad group to belong to. There are perks. For instance, there is a certain level of entertainment, and things like addiction, adultery, fraud (and a host of other indiscretions) are overlooked. You see, there's a strict oath of secrecy within this exclusive society.
But the walls…the walls of the Regal could tell many a tale…like when the governor's wife, Jocelyn Peabody, was caught smoking a joint in the Ladies Lounge with the towel boy. And the time Janey Carmody was seen entering the dining room with her skirt inside out, after her meeting with the pool director. Alas, these forbidden tales remain hidden from the public, locked inside the walls of the Regal and the many other swishy clubs frequented by my social circle.
"Finally," Jackie bellowed and tutted loudly.
The waiter was back.
Taking a better look at him, I noted he was quite handsome with dancing blue eyes and shiny dark hair that sprung up in soft curls. He had a sharp chin, high cheekbones, and his skin had a lovely glow. He maneuvered around our table like a cat and threw our dishes down like a card dealer. Before I could blink, he was at my elbow.
"It's a brilliant day. Don't you agree, madam?" It was more of a song than a statement. "It's great to be alive." He inhaled deeply and exhaled loudly.
"Er, yes; just lovely." I gave a little crooked smile.
"There's something in the air." He grinned broadly.
"Yes, it's called heartbreak," Jackie sniffled.
"That'll be all." She waved her hand.
"The world is a garden ready to sprout the seeds of your imagination," he chirped. "Simply place your desires into the cosmos and watch them grow to fruition."
"Yes madam. Now, should you require anything further - anything at all - just beckon. I will heed the call faster than the flip of wren's wing."
"Er…yes, well. I think we're good." Jackie creased her brow.
"That was interesting…"
"There's something about that guy," Jackie mumbled, her eyes taking him in.
I made a note to speak with the manager.
Meanwhile, Claudia was becoming increasingly excited, and her eyes took on a strange glow. "If you want my advice…leave the bastard…but only after you gut him!" Claudia was certainly relishing the thought of Ted being cored like an apple. "Take him to the cleaners!" she wailed and stuck her fork into her seared tuna with unnecessary force.
"Shhh, Claudia, lower your voice," Phyllis whispered, fingering her large peace sign.
"Hang 'em by his…!"
"Claudia! You're creating a scene..."
Take it from a lady who has been there, this is a true to life description of a small town with lots of money. It was a fun read and spot on too. I hope to hear more from this writer.
About the AuthorLisa J. Mitchell is an American writer, residing on the East Coast with her husband, two sons, and her Shih-Poo. She's worked in Advertising, Fashion, and Sales...but found writing to be her absolute passion. When she's not tapping away at the keyboard, she can be found in the kitchen whipping up a new recipe, enjoying time with her family, or having a laugh with dear friends. She loves to interact with her readers, so please visit her at the links below.


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|Apple Carrot Dumplings for Gabriel's birthday.
|Gabriel just couldn't wait!
|Now, blow the candle out!
|Gabriel checks out the play.
|An exhausted Gabriel.
|Gabriel on the grooming table.
|The uncanny resemblance.
|Apple Carrot Dumplings for Gabriel's birthday.
|Gabriel just couldn't wait!
|Now, blow the candle out!
|Gabriel checks out the play.
|An exhausted Gabriel.
|Gabriel on the grooming table.
|The uncanny resemblance.
Maybe you should have named him Einstein - that is a remarkable likeness:)
Happy Birthday, Gabriel - that plate of food looks super delicious.
Woos - Phantom, Thunder, Ciara, and Lightning
Happy 1st Birthday, Gabriel!
I don't blame him for not being able to wait. That cake looks delish!
Yeah, he really does look a lot like Einstein.
Oh Gabriel I hope you had a fantastical birthday! You really did have an uncanny resemblence to Einstein.
Nubbin wiggles,
Happee 1st Birthday...some buddy looks like Einstein
Benny & Lily
Hi Gabriel, hope you had a lovely Birthday and those dumplings look yummers!!!!
I'm still waiting to hear how you infiltrated that "mini schnauzer" household......
My mum says to tell your peep that her face won't appear on our blogs....because she could NEVER compete with the beauty of mine!!!!! BOL!!
Tail Wuggles, Rubie xxx
Nice to meet you Gabriel :) Just like Einstein! But maybe more handsome ;)
Happy Birthday Gabriel!
Wow Gabriel, it is amazing what a shave and a haircut will do for a dog. I love your sweet face the way your Mommy fixes it now, even though you were adorable with the longer hair too.
HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY BUDDY!! Looks like you had a ball. And those treats look SOOO yummy. Now, I know you shared with the girls, right?
Love & Puppy Kisses, Pixel
Pixel here again. I have awarded you guys the 'Pawsome Blogger' award! Check out my blog post today, Feb 27th. Love you guys and gals so much! You make me smile all the time.
Love Pixel
Looks like Gab is Einstein in the making... Now that he's reached his first birthday, maybe we should test his Quantum Physics aptitude.
By the way, your babies are adorable!
Huggies and Cheesem
happy birthday gabriel those treats look really yummy you guys are so well looked after and so well behaved i love the picture i found of you all sitting round the table together helping your mommy cook her recipes and clean up after. i have a feeling im going to really enjoy this blog. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxReplyDelete
Wow! We didn't know you were back to blogging again!! Have missed your videos so much! Diana you are an awesome teacher - Kirby can only hope to be as good as your girls (and boy)!!ReplyDelete

subset: commoncrawl


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GEMS Presents Dongsok Shin: Mozart Recital, 10/25
Gotham Early Music Scene (GEMS) will be a free concert featuring Dongsok Shin: Mozart Recital on Thursday, October 25, 2012 at 1:15pm at Saint Peter's Lutheran Churchm located at 619 Lexington Avenue (at 54th Street), New York, NY. Dongsok Shin will play the fortepiano.
No tickets required; seating first-come, first-served
For more information, go to www.gemsny.org or call 212/866-0468.
Midtown Concerts offers workers in midtown as well as the general public the opportunity to enjoy high-quality performances of music of the Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods in a convenient, comfortable, acoustically superb venue. Tickets are not necessary; seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Free-will donations are gratefully accepted at the door.
This is part of a weekly series of free 35-minute concerts, every Thursday at 1:15 p.m.
Photo Credit: Howard Goodman


text: On Saturday 12 November 2005 23:56, Aleksandar Milivojevic wrote: > In short, unless Sun grants special license to CentOS project, they > can't distribute Java as part of distribution. Interestingly, Red Hat > is distributing IBM's Java packages... why not at least java-sun-compat package, that symlink in the install, like the java-gcj-compat actually do? jpackage support java-sun-compat for 1.4 and 1.5 (although i can't install both one cleanly now) when i download the sun rpm, whe download a .bin executable, that when is executed, put a text for agrement and after this put an rpm in your system to install. we can install sun rpm, and after this a java-sun-compat wrapper that work with alternatives. just like jpackage. -- Black Hand Amiga Addicts Powered by CentOS, KDE 3.4.1 and lots of GNU Force


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Tattoos are something that is meant to be kept for life. However, to some it may be a great idea at first, but gradually it seems to have a negative impact on their personal, professional and even romantic life. Tattoos are especially created in such a way so that it ...Read More »
Advice For Phenq Users Regarding Precautions To Be Taken
PhenQ is a strong and powerful slimming formula, which can assist you attain your dreamed body within limited period of time. Unlike other weight reduction supplements, PhenQ will work in a extremely natural manner in order to make sure your excessively accumulated body fat is burned effectively devoid of including ...Read More »
Fertility Treatments- What Should You Check?
You will find that fertility clinics give you a host of treatments and this often becomes a feasible path for couples who wish to conceive naturally and have their child. If you and your partner are looking for a fertility clinic, it is important for you to actually keep in ...Read More »
Important Facts that You Should Know about Double Eyelid Surgery
Double Eyelid Surgery The first thing a person notices when you meet is your eyes. If you have a sagging upper eyelid, sagging skin or wrinkles around the eyes, then they will make you look like you are stressed, aged or even overtired. Enhancing the look of the eyes and ...Read More »
10 Guidelines To Help You Get The Beauty Sleep
It's suggested you receive about six to eight hrs of natural sleep every evening. Sleeping for such duration can increase your overall look thus making you look better still. Why shall we be held saying so? Because research has established that getting a night sleep helps your body to heal ...Read More »
Organic and Eco-Friendly Nails
When you get your nails done in the salon, you already know the setting. You walk in and immediately are hit through the smell. Have a look at the quantity of chemicals which are used. Just attempt to SAY a number of them: "ethyl methacrylate", "quaternary ammonium", "toluene" and "acetonitrile." ...Read More »


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Looks like some nitwit decided to take potshots at the Pentagon, luckily no one was hurt. I imagine those on the far right will blame it on Muslims, and those on the far left will claim it was done by militia or tea party members. I'm betting it's just some dumbass with a rifle and no common sense.
Both parties are getting ready for the voting in a couple of weeks. I expect the political ads to get even more heated the closer we get to elections. Both sides will be lying to the public, and the mainstream media will be right in there with them, depending on which side they are on at the time. I'm hoping there will be a few shakeups this year; some of the incumbents are getting too comfortable in their positions.
"The Democrats are the party that says government will make you smarter, taller, richer, and remove the crabgrass on your lawn.
The Republicans are the party that says government doesn't work and then they get elected and prove it. "
-P.J. O'Rourke
Any favorites or comments on this bunch?
"Spooky" by Classics IV
"Angel of the Morning" by Merrillee Rush
"With a Little Help from My Friends" by The Beatles
"I Won't Back Down" by Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers
"I Can't Help Falling In Love " by Elvis Presley
"The Girl From Ipanema" by Astrud Gilberto
"Goodnight My Love" by The Happenings
"Crying In the Rain" by A-ha
"Got My Mind Set On You" George Harrison
"California Dreaming" by Beach Boys
I like this version better than the old one by the Everly Brothers.
One of my favorite Beatles.
Good arrangement of an old classic; I like the instrumental selection a little better than the original.


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Pro Bono Residential Assistance
Concerned About Your Family's Health, But Need A Helping Hand?
We believe every family should be afforded safe and healthy living conditions, regardless of income.
Residential indoor environmental assessments can range from $500 to $1500 on average. Please contact us if you have immediate concerns about the environmental conditions in your home but are unable to afford an assessment. We would welcome the opportunity to hear your concerns. Depending on your specific situation and income level, we will consider offering our services at a discounted rate or free of charge.


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Bad Judgment by Personal Trainer Causes Lawsuit
By Doyice Cotten
Many things can cause accidents in a health club – and a negligence suit is sometimes the result. Causes include equipment failure, slick floor surface, inattention of the personal trainer, carelessness by the client, and many more. In the case addressed here, the cause was largely due to the faulty judgment of the personal trainer. The following describes the events leading up to the injury of Patricia Evans in a Pennsylvania health club:
On November 12,


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4 Steps to a Perfect Mother's Day Soiree
Original Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/typepad/style_me_pretty/~3/3D5g2gl25RI/
Mother's Day is one of our favorite days of the year, so celebrating it in style? Sooo important. Because, really, there's no better way to let all of the mamas in your life know just how much you care than with a party especially for them. So today we're teaming up with The Registry at Bloomingdale's (and their gorgeous lineup of Villeroy & Boch products) for your guide to the perfect Mother's Day soiree, aka, crafting the ultimate brunch or get-together. See four steps to a beautiful party below.
It's a fact: You can't have a Mother's Day celebration without a room full of beautiful blooms. So when choosing the perfect locale to host your fabulous brunch, moving the party outside is always an amazing idea. Think fresh cut grass, twinkle lights and garden roses as far as the eye can see. Don't have the space or weather for an outdoor soiree? No worries. You can move the celebration inside with fresh cut florals from your local market and pretty much anything Villeroy & Boch makes. Their designs bring the garden party wherever you go, you guys. So amazing.
Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography 1. L'Objet Perlee White Short Vase 2. Kikkerland Silver Spiral String Lights 3. Sky Portia Floral Felt Decorative Pillow 4. Villeroy & Boch Retro Clear Three Arms Candleabra 5. Villeroy & Boch Anmut 3-Tiered Server
I mentioned that Mother's Day pretty much requires beautiful blooms, right? Good. Because when it comes to adding a room full or pretty florals, you can sooo achieve the aesthetic you're looking for with Villeroy & Boch's beautiful dinnerware and place settings. Think sweet floral patterns, vibrant hues and romantic designs that will bring that Jane Austen-esque look to any party. In other words? Adding Villeroy & Boch to your registry at Bloomingdale's is a decision you'll be seriously happy you made. On Mother's Day… and every other day.
Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography 1. kate spade new york Percival Place Votive Holder 2. Liberty Flowers Fabric Napkins 3. Villeroy & Boch Artesano Dinner Plate 4. Villeroy & Boch La Classica Gold 5-Piece Place Setting 5. Villeroy & Boch Octavie Goblet
Let's be honest. One of the best parts of any party is always the food, so skimping out on yummy treats for Mother's Day is most definitely NOT an option. We suggest baking up some bite-sized goodies, like tea sandwiches and scones, or going all out with a sit-down brunch (mmm… omelets) for a menu that will leave all of your mommy friends talking. Bonus points for using Villeroy & Boch's serveware, because it's just so darn stunning.
Photography: KT Merry Photography 1. Wedgewood "Cuckoo" Tea Story 2-Tier Cake Stand 2. Villeroy & Boch New Wave Demitasse Spoons 3. Villeroy & Boch Anmut Platinum Bread & Butter Plate
Call me old fashioned (or just plain romantic), but no brunch at my house ends without tea. It's such a sweet + calming way to wrap up the proceedings… and it's even sweeter when you can serve up that tasty beverage in gorgeous teapots + cups from Villeroy & Boch. Think breathtaking designs that are almost too pretty to use. (I said almost.) It's sending your guests off in style with full tummies and happy hearts. We are so on board.
Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography 1. Villeroy & Boch Anmut Flowers Teacup 2. Villeroy & Boch Artesano Teapot with Strainer 3. Domenico Vacca by Prouna Alligator White Sugar Bowl & Creamer Set 4. Villeroy & Boch New Wave Caffe Demi Espresso Spoon
Ready to host the Mother's Day celebration of the century for you AND the ones you love? Visit The Registry at Bloomingdale's to check out all of their amazing Villeroy & Boch products, plus their never-ending lineup of must-haves that you'll most definitely need for any party on your agenda. And don't forget to ask about all of their fabulous perks + benefits, like a 10% Off Completion Offer, discounts on jewelry + attire, a Thank You Manager, a Registry Checklist and their mobile Big Brown App. Happy Mother's Day, loves.
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Indiana Directory Catalog
Anderson - Attica - Bloomington - Evansville - Fort Wayne - Gary - Hammond - Indianapolis Lafayette - Muncie - Richmond - South Bend, Osceola, Mishawaka
Only pay shipping on the first item in your order - additional items ship free!
(Check each listing to see all the towns included in these directories)
Use "Ctrl" + "F" to search for City name
Anderson, Alexandria, Chesterfield-Daleville, Elwood, and many more!
Ambia, Attica, Blomingdale, Boswll, Cayuga, Covington, and many more!
Indianapolis Metro Area


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HA.com receives more traffic than any other auction house website. (Source: Similarweb.com)


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Letter to the Senate supporting the Fair Pay Act
April 22, 2008
Dear Senator:
On behalf of the National Education Association's (NEA) 3.2 million members, we urge you to support the Fair Pay Restoration Act (S. 1843), which is scheduled to come to the floor for a vote tomorrow afternoon. Votes associated with this bill may be included in the NEA Legislative Report Card for the 110th Congress.
This important legislation reaffirms civil rights threatened by a 2007 U.S. Supreme Court ruling, Ledbetter v. Goodyear. A 5-4 decision authored by Justice Samuel Alito, this ruling makes it virtually impossible for women facing pay discrimination to take legal action against their employers. It also threatens justice for anyone discriminated against on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, disability, or age.
The House has already passed a companion bill, the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act (H.R. 2831). Now, the ball is in the Senate's court. Please vote to close debate on S. 1843, then vote for passage and make this bill a law.
Diane Shust, Director of Government Relations
Randall Moody, Manager of Federal Advocacy


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THE VISTA VOICE – Apr 19 – Mazama Capital Management bought 157K shares of Match Group, valued at ~$2.1M. Mazama Capital Management owned 0.06% of Match Group as of its most recent filing with the SEC. RS Investment Management Co. LLC acquired shares valued at $16M, Schroder Investment Management Group bought $15.6M worth of shares; Jennison Associates – $14M; BlackRock Advisors LLC $12M. Manning & Napier Advisors – $10M.
See full article at The Vista Voice
This post also appears on InternetDatingInvestments.
#dating #scams #datingscams #htcs
View full post on Online Personals Watch: News on the Dating Industry and Business


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I look around sometimes and notice that a lot of the people that used to be a huge part of the trail running community don't come around to the group runs anymore. In fact, we hardly see any of them anymore. When i ask I usually hear something like "it just doesn't feel the same anymore" and I wonder what they mean by that.
When I first came to trail running I immediately fell in love with the culture and community. I was wowed by the fact that people cared more about me reaching my goals than measuring them against their own accomplishments. People didn't ask my finish times. At fatass events no one really cared who ran faster or further. I couldn't believe how quick seasoned veterans were to lend a hand, some advice, crew or pace me, or just ask me to go on a run with them. They genuinely welcomed me to the community and I felt like that really wanted me to succeed.
In those early days group runs were a place to make new friends, pass along the knowledge we learned and cultivate relationships. Spending all day on the trial with people and you feel a sense of closeness. You paced them overnight during their 100 miler. You crewed them. You saw them fail. You watched them triumph.
Maybe your life got busier or your priorities changed. You started just doing group runs just with your close group of friends. It was easier for this smaller group to just crew and pace each other. You focused on dominating your age group and getting into Western States while taking more intimate trips together. You didn't have time to slow down and help. You didn't reach out to the new trail runners. People just didn't understand that you can't give an entire day to working an aid station. You did your volunteer hours for the year already....other people can clean up the trails.
And then one day you came around and noticed how things had changed. All the old people were gone. It just didn't feel the same.
I think at some point we all come to discover that the trail and ultra "community" gives way more than it takes, but only to those that give back. Think about it this way....running 100 miles alone with no crew or pacer on inadequate training is hard. Compare that to having a great crew, inspirational pacer and knowing that you put in all the hard work... it makes it easier. It also allows others to play a role, learn, build a relationship with you and share in your accomplishment.
Are you leaving the world of trail and ultra running better than it was when you found it? Do you give more than you take? Did you pace or crew a stranger this year? Did you extend your hand to a newcomer and make some of those first hard long runs easier for them by giving them company? Did you work an aid station all day? Did you help put on a fatass? Volunteer for a local Race Director? Did you inspire a stranger by believing in them before they could believe in themself?
If you answered no to several of the above it might be time to look in the mirror and admit that it's not trail and ultra running, but you that's changed. Let's make it a goal in 2017 to give more than we take.
You meet a lot of amazing people out on the trials. One of them is you!


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This is an exciting time to join our team! Our employees choose to work in Slough because it offers many opportunities to develop your career and enhance your skills in an area that has much to offer.
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Your order will be processed immidiately after payment received and sent wthin three business days.
- EMS (www.ems.com.cn)
- DHL (www.dhl.com)
- Fedex (www.fedex.com)
- UPS (www.ups.com)
- Air Cargo (Parcel over 50kgs)
- Air Mail (Best value for small parcels less than 2kg, 15-35 days to worldwide)
Tracking number is available for customers to track the parcel status online.
Track your parcel at (www.17track.net)
|Terms and Regulations:
Warranty and Return Policy:
- ACOS Electronics provides 30 days warranty of Exchange or Money Back to original buyer only, starting from the date received. Absolutely no returns will be accepted after 30 days from the date received.
- Buyer is responsible for the shipping cost of returning to seller and seller is responsible for the resending cost to buyer.
- Items returned for warranty must be in its original status. Any attempt to install, open or use the item will void the warranty.
- Chips and components are sold as is. There's no warranty covered due to buyer's technical skills.
- Displays that with third party LCD module(Long Teng, Tian Ma, BOE,Shen chao,etc) are NOT covered by ACOS standard warranty. The displays are not working stable, defective rate is over one third, or even half.
- All returned non-defective products are subject to a 20% restocking fee (NO EXCEPTIONS).


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Just in time for celebrating Earth Day, I have gotten my hands on the fabulous DiVOGA Collection. The cork collection transforms the workplace and home accessories. Neutral and monotone styles is where it is at these days.
Disclaimer: I received the DiVOGA products from OfficeMax in order to facilitate my review. The DiVOGA products featured in this giveaway are also provided by OfficeMax and will be sent to the winner directly. Opinions expressed in this post are 100% my own. I have not been compensated for this post in any other way.
The new, limited-edition DiVOGA Cork Collection is part of the fashion-focused DiVOGA line available exclusively at OfficeMax. It delivers a natural cork texture with a matte finish. For a collection of soft and comfortable pieces that can effortlessly transition with you. The natural elements of the cork make each piece distinctively unique.
Shop the DiVOGA Cork Collection at your nearest OfficeMax store.
Win your own set of the DiVOGA Cork collection (retail value $100)
Giveaway includes: Tote Bag | Magazine File | Journal | Tablet Case | Pencil Cube | Cellphone Case | Compartment Tray | Padfolio | Document Wallet
Open to US residents only. Ends May 4, 2014. Winner will be contacted via email and will have 24 hours to respond or a new winner will be contacted.
DiVOGA Cork Collection at OfficeMax ($100 Giveaway)


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Wednesday, September 8, 2010
September is National Honey Month
September may claim to be the sweetest month of the year--next to National Candy Month (June). For bees it's the best.
Honey has a long history of a multi-tasking food talent. Used in desserts, alcoholic beverages, wound healing and medicines, honey was noted in hieroglyphics in Egypt as far back as 4000-5000 BC. Egyptians had a regular supply of honey as beekeepers were involved in a serious task to keep the golden liquid pouring.
Lately, there have been reports of the decline of the honey bee. Called Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) a mysterious illness has been killing honey bees over the last few decades. It is most notable in wild or feral bees. Though seen a pest because it stings, the depletion of bee populations is however, dire. About 33% of the world's foods require honey bee pollination. Flowers will not produce fruits and vegetables unless pollinated by bees.
Weakened immune systems and multiple diseases and pests are most likely the cause of the decline of the numbers of bees. So for September buy fresh, local honey, spare the spray and don't swat the bees.
For recipes try: www.thomashoney.com/recipes/cookies.html
Posted by Righter04 at 1:03 PM
Labels: bees, honey, pollination, September
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I have sold a property at 101 1405 12 AVE W in Vancouver.
Come live in one of Vancouver's most sought-after neighbourhoods. Just one block from upscale shopping on Granville you will find this spacious 2-Bedroom + Solarium, on the quiet side in the Warrenton. This garden home boasts airy overheight ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, EXTRA large sunny patio, large master and an additional private patio with every room overlooking lovely landscaped gardens. Original owners, private, well kept, great for outdoor entertaining. Central location, 5 mins to downtown & easy access to Airport. Complete with 2 parkings, plenty of storage, separate entrance off the kitchen.


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|"When I can look life in the eyes, grown calm and very coldly wise, life will have given me the truth, and taken in exchange — my youth."
[Sara Teasdale]
Saturday, December 11, 2004
Finally 40!
Yesterday I finally turned 40, survived the thirties without any serious damage. :)
Posted by Andreas Heldal-Lund at 2:55 pm
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Hanoi Cycling 1 days
Hanoi Cycling Tours (1 day)
If you are looking for a tour of Hanoi, no better way to see the city than on a bike tour with us. Exploring Hanoi by bike provides an exciting and totally different way to see Vietnam is famous capital city.
We will suggest you dozen of itineraries combined with the highest levels like mountain bike to easy cycle on craft villages, or professional road riding. So in our groups are never larger than 8 participants, meaning that you can enjoy a safer and more personal service. Anyone who can ride a bicycle may join our excursions.
Daily Mountain bike tours in Hanoi
Hanoi-Hoa Binh- Hanoi( 25 Km )
- ( 3/5 difficult mountain bike )
- some off road skill
- Welcome for beginner
- Depart at 7h30AM in your hotel
- Transfer to Hoa binh ( 1-1/2 hours)
- Biking on dirt road 3 km up hill , 2 km down hill then we riding off road in single track, dirt road, rock garden and trails ( 15km) , caring lunch , and we will stop some where to eat.
- Meet mini bus around 2 Pm and driving back to Hano
- 160 USD for solo person booking
- 95USD/person group of 2 people booking
- 90 USD /person for group of 3 to 5 people booking
Including :
– Minibus caring bike and biker
-Local cycling tour guide from Hanoi
– Lunch
-Water, coffee, tea, soft drink
– Snack, power bar
– Full suspension mountain bike Cannondale Scalpel 29 or RZ 120
Option 1: Cycling family holiday in Hanoi
Easy ride (from 35 km up to 150 km)
Driving along of Duong river then cycling crossing pottery village, Phat Tich Pagoda, Dong ho block printing picture… beautiful rice field of Red river delta belong on both side
- – Visit the craftsman house who making block printing photo
- – ButThap Pagoda one of the largest in the Northern Vietnam now.
- well surface back road
- quite traffic
- Ultimate distance from 45 to 150km
- good for begin mountain bike and cross
Group Size 2 people = 125 USD/person
4-6Price /person = 95USD
Including :
|English speaking local cycling guide
|Trek bike as touring for adult and Kids bikes
|Meals as mention with picnic lunch or with local family
|drink with water and snack when you cycling.
|Sightseeing and activities as noted in the itinerary
|Ground transportation and 100% vehicle by minibus.
|Entrance fees and permits.
Option2: Hanoi biking tour: MeLinh – SonTay.
Active ride +- 60 km to 140km
You will ride along a bank of Red river, through farms, fruit plantations on the old riverside in the north of Hanoi, visit temples and practice Buddhist way of life . Boat trip crossing rive, continue cycling to Son Tay ,visit Duong Lam village by bicycle, local family lunch. Learning traditional life of local people . Cycling on other side of rive or driving back to Hanoi by mini bus. End of trip
Price for group
Price /person
- 1 person = 125 USD
- 2 people = 98 USD/person
including :
|English speaking local cycling guide
|Trek hybrid or 520 touring bikes and Kids bike
|Meals as mention with picnic lunch or with local family
|drink with water and snack when you cycling.
|Sightseeing and activities as noted in the itinerary
|Entrance fees and permits.
Option3: Hanoi bike: Half day central to suburb of Hanoi. (45km )
Meet in your hotel, taxi to our office meet bikes. Riding from our office to Long Bien Bridge "Designed by Gustave Eiffel, the bridge was built in 1903 by the architects of Daydé & Pillé, a French company. Before North Vietnam's independence in 1954, it was called Doumer Bridge, named after Paul Doumer – The Governor-General of French Indochina and then French president. It was, at that time, one of the longest bridges in Asia with the length of 2,500 m.[1] For the French colonial government, the construction was of strategic importance in securing control of northern Vietnam. From 1899 to 1902, more than 3,000 Vietnamese took part in the construction."
Crossing river by ferry , keep riding on bank of river meet Thang Long Bridge and riding back to central of city. End of tour after 3 hours.
|Group Size
|Price /person
Including :
|English speaking local cycling guide
|Trek 4500 hybrid bike
|drink with water and snack when you cycling.
|Sightseeing and activities as noted in the itinerary
|Entrance fees and permits.
Option4: Night Hanoi travel by bicycle tour ( 40km)
Meet at your hotel , around 21:00 , start riding visit Hanoi on night time…. cross Opera house, Hochiminh Mausoleum …riding around West lake . Tour will end in your hotel at 23:30.
|Group Size
|Price /person
|English speaking local guide
|Surly cross check bike
|drink with water when you riding.
Option5: Hanoi road bike tour ( 90-110km) ( 3 to 4 hours )
Meet at your hotel , riding from your hotel to northwest of Hanoi city ,road cycling on high way North Thang Long to highway 18 and highway one and back to central of Hanoi.
|Group Size
|Price /person
|English speaking local guide
|Surly cross check bike ( 700cc wheel size )
|drink with water when you riding


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In Norwegian eyes this year's Womex is special. Not only because it is the first time a Norwegian act has been selected for a main program showcase, but also because this particular act has become so precious to so many back home.
|Listen to excerpts from Adjagas' debut album
|Listen to and download Adjagas releases here
The duo Adjagas bespeaks the mysteries of human experience in ways quiet and elusive – and yet infinitely powerful. Such is the nature of the joik, the Sámi chanting tradition to which Adjagas belongs. This tradition already has an enchanted international following, thanks to such Sámi performers as Mari Boine, but Adjagas are up to something different.
As Lawra Somby, the male part of the duo, explains, "Joik is a rich tradition, and the repertoire of traditional joik is almost inexhaustible. Still, we wanted to create new joiks, not just present traditional ones in a novel musical context. And I was actually surprised at how different the joiks we made turned out."
He continues, saying, "It is important to stress that the joik itself, and certainly my version of it, is a matter of receiving an expression, and mediating the inner voice that a human experience has in itself. A strange fact is that sometimes the joik comes first, and then you realize to what feeling or experience the joik pertains afterwards. These things are hard to explain, but it is the way our music comes to life, and it was the way I conceived the material I contributed to our album."
The album, Adjagas, was released in Norway last November. It received attention out of the ordinary and widespread acclaim. And this has been repeated regarding the duo's live performances throughout 2006.
For the Womex gig and the European tour of which it is a part, Lawra and his partner Sara Marielle Gaup have developed a new line-up and a slightly altered sound with the inclusion of more computer-triggered elements.
"Still, our main concern is to keep it organic," says Lawra. "We wanted to expand the sonics, but retain the utmost emphasis on the vocals, which is the essence of joik. This just furthers the approach we had on our record, which basically was to set forth thematically new joiks, joined by some original musical elements, but still remain true to the vocal essence of the tradition."
Extending this approach, Adjagas has also chosen an artistic presentation and platform that sets the duo apart from the typical performers of their own and related traditions: They are consciously avoiding the "World music" category both in terms of how they define their music and in terms of how they market it.
Rather than appearing from the onset as World musicians, in Norway they have emerged as a notable name in popular music, as such. They are signed to independent labels both in Norway and internationally, where they have a European deal with the renowned German electronica label K7!.
However, that deal did not come about for strategic reasons at all. "The world consists of people," Lawra says with sagacity, "and it just so happened that we bumped into this guy who was really ignited by our music. It was accidental, although we probably would have hoped for a similar approach anyway."
The record will be released across Europe in January, followed by a limited number of exclusive performances.
When asked about the expectations towards the Womex concert, Lawra replies, "I don't really have any, because I don't know much about the event, but it is of course a great honour to be invited and we look forward to it tremendously. Not least since we get a few days off in sunny Spain…"


text:
Pay off debts (12/2011)
Weigh < 200 pounds (6/2011)
Become a non-smoker (11/2010)
Contact nephew to see if he wants Christmas decorations (10/2010)
Start business for taking medical transcription jobs (1/2011)
Buy work computer (1/2011)
Get medical transcription certification (1/2011 - 6/2011)
Choose Class A (Winnebago)
Purchase Class A
Choose toad (10/2010)
Purchase Toad (10/2010)
Purchase and set up towing of toad (with brake buddy)
Sell truck (10/2010)
Join Escapees RV club
Auto & home insurance for rig
Pull my stuff I want to keep out of the house and into the rig
Buy personal laptop and transfer computer info to it.
Clean desktop computer for sale.
Set up rig on site & move in (friend's field) (end of 3/2012)
Put home on the market
Purchase containers to fit stuff and rig
Notify family/friends to come take what they want from home
Interview Estate Sale Service (A+A Estate Wizards & Denver Gypsy Boys)
1 month notice to job (quit long term job 10/2010)
Hold Estate Sale (3 or 4/2012)
Sell home
Decide on mail forwarding service (mom or Livingston, TX)
Update will
Health Insurance
Disability Insurance
Road service plan for rig
Insurance to return rig & transport me and transport brother to me in case of emergency
Packet to emergency contact with all info and passwords
7 hours ago


text:
The village, completely uninhabited for about the last thirty years, was the subject of a restoration project which has operated on two levels. On one level, a general restoration of the ancient settlement was in progress, respecting the original materials and building techniques (the restoration plan was developed by the architect Giancarlo De Carlo).
On another level, the village has been provided with a sophisticated technological infrastructure which will allow future inhabitants to benefit from the widest possible range of telecommunications resources. In this way they will be able to enjoy the peace and isolation offered by the village – as well as the beauty of the surroundings – while staying in touch with the work environment and, more generally, with the information resources available all over the world. Thus it will be possible for people to spend long periods in Colletta; periods which do not necessarily have to coincide with official holidays. People will have the chance to "telecommute", or even decide to move their primary residence to Colletta.


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How often have you applied to jobs with x number of years in PQE and realised you have been working for a long time in your chosen profession?
I recently updated my LinkedIn account and it dawned on me that I have 14 years PQE. Instead of feeling old and rusty for career-break of 7 years to raise this young family, I felt (strangely) empowered and experienced - ready to take on clients and their matters.
"God works in mysterious ways." this cannot be more true.
21-23 August are special dates to me because those dates were when I first met my like-minded and warm bodied mentor in 1998, soon after my graduation from law school. It has been 18 years and the mentoring is still there.
"Why do you want to complete your CLP and pupillage?", my mentor had asked when I was failing at my CLP due to the mess it was before the major clean up in 2001.
"I do not want wake up at 40 and regret not doing my CLP and getting called to the Bar." I was in my 20s, super-confident and super-resilient then.
Well, my lovelies. I am now 40.
And guess what?
I am so thankful the sacrifices of resitting my CLP until I passed in 2001 (discovered that system failed me and many other candidates due to corruption and mismanagement) AND quitting my corporate job in oil and gas for one year to read in chambers as a pupil so that I could be called to the Bar are worth it. So very worth it.
I am now 40, satisfied that I made those decisions and had the right mentor who came into my life to support those decisions.
P/S: Yes, I am back in practice now. So grateful.


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We appreciate your interest in our area and hope you enjoy visiting this venue on your upcoming trip to St. Charles.
4051 E. Main Street
St. Charles, IL 60174
Personalized treatments designed to produce visible results, heighten overall well-being. Choose from a variety of services, massages, body wraps, facials, body waxing. Our goal is for you to achieve deep relaxation, self-awareness.


text:
By Tom Rohrer
Winning is one thing, but a victory to prove you're the best in the nation is one for the record books.
In late July, Karen Bulger, an incoming junior at Northwest Christian High School in Lacey, took home first place in javelin within the 15-16 year old division at the National Junior Olympics in Baltimore after her throw of 135'9″. Along with taking home the gold in javelin, Bulger put her full spectrum of athletic talents on display by taking 13th overall in the shot put with a distance of 35'3″.
Bulger, who attended Olympia High School her freshmen and sophomore year, went into the meet with a relaxed and confident attitude.
"I really wanted to be as relaxed as possible, and that's a difficult thing to do, since it's such a big competition," Bulger said. "But I had the experience from before and I felt very prepared. I knew how far to throw and knew what I needed to do to compete well and the rest fell into place."
Bulger is now a three-time All-American after placing in the javelin the last three years at the national meet. As a 14 year old, Bulger placed second at the meet (125') in Sacramento before taking third place in Wichita (133'7")in 2011.
A member of the Barron Park Striders Track and Field Team coached by Drew Stevick, Bulger enjoys meeting fellow competitors at national events.
"While you want to win and treat it like a competition, you're going to make friends," Bulger said. "It's cool to see familiar faces and at the same time, see them improving. In javelin, there are so many different heats, so you get to meet and talk to people in between them. I really enjoy that social aspect."
After suffering from an illness her freshmen season at OHS, Bulger came back ready to work harder than ever before.
"My freshmen year, I was very new to the sport, but still progressed quite well," Bulger said. "But then I contracted Mono, and I couldn't compete in the state track meet. That was very hard, especially with all the work I had put in and how much fun I was having. But really, it made me want to take my training to the next level and put in a lot of work. I think it has paid off."
Bulger is no one-trick pony, as she participates in a slew of other sports including volleyball, basketball, swimming and snowboarding.
"Staying active all year long prepares me for competitions and keeps me in shape," Bulger said. "It also helps me balance my time right and stay focused on what's important."
With a new year at a new school right around the corner, Bulger's excitement level has risen in late August.
"It's an exciting time for me, it's always cool to prepare for a new experience and a new situation," Bulger said. "I'm starting volleyball soon, so I'll be thrown into the athletic scene immediately. I think it's going to be a great experience at a great school."
Although the title of national champion is impressive, Bulger is not satisfied with her long list of accomplishments and has high aspirations for her future athletic career.
"I am working really hard to increase distance," Bulger said of her javelin training. "I'm going to do a lot more intensive training that can lead to me getting a scholarship for college and possibly look to the Olympics in the future."
Almost a month later, Bulger's monumental victory in Baltimore still seems surreal.
"I don't think it has quite hit me yet," Bulger said of the national championship. "I think it will soon, but I'm so proud and thankful to all my friends, family and coaches who helped me to win and represent the area well on a national stage."
For more information on the Barron Park Striders click here.


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General Discussion and Owners' Polls
: Charles Church and Persimmon Owners' Forum
What is the indefinable quality about a Charles Church home that makes it so special, and makes so many aspire to owning one? Good question, this is the place for your reviews, comments and experiences, good and bad. Look out for the snagging list polls.
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File e-form 24 with following documents:
a) Copy of Detailed Application – Mention full details of LLP plus reasons for closure
b) Copy of Authority to Make the Application – The person who is making application must be authorized by all the partners to make such application.
c) Copy of Consent of all Partners – Self-Explanatory.
d) Copy of Consent of all Creditors– if no creditor than Certify that that LLP have NIL Creditor.
e) Copy of the undertaking/ indemnity bond for striking off name Indemnity bond.
f) Copy of statement of assets and liabilities duly certified as true and correct by
auditor/chartered accountant in practice
g) Copy of acknowledgement of latest Income tax return- Self Explanatory LLP older less than a year cannot be strike off.
h) Copy of undertaking/Affidavit by the designated partner should on stamp paper for striking off name of the LLP.
1. An application is required to be made in e-Form 24 to the Registrar of Companies for
Striking off the name of the LLP under clause (b) of sub rule 1 of Rule 37 of LLP Rules
2008 with the consent of all partners.
2. The Registrar shall publish a notice on its website as to the content of the application for a period of one month for the notice of the general public.
3. Application submitted to be supported by Indemnity Bonds to indemnify any person
legally claiming after the LLP to be strike off and duly sworn Affidavits declaring all the
information provided and statements given to be true, from all partners.
4. Application filed also to be supported by approvals or No Objection Certificates from
concerned Regulatory Authorities with which the LLP is registered. For eg. LLP engaged
in or registered with RBI for Banking Business has to obtain NOC from RBI before
winding up of its affairs.
5. The Registrar, where he has sufficient cause to believe that the limited liability
partnership has any asset or liability, satisfy himself that sufficient provision has been
made for the realization of all amount due to the limited liability partnership and for the payment or discharge of its liabilities and obligations by the limited liability partnership within a reasonable time and, if necessary, obtain necessary undertakings from the designated partner or partner or other persons in charge of the management of the limited liability partnership
6. On the expiry of period of one month, the Registrar may, by an order, unless cause to the contrary is shown by the limited liability partnership, strike its name off the register, and shall publish notice thereof in the Official Gazette, and on the publication in the Official Gazette of this notice, the limited liability partnership shall stand dissolved.