text:
with one eye open
December 30, 2014 § Leave a comment
Hello! I am called by many names: Abigail, Abbey, Sweet Pea, Butter Bean, Doodlebug, Princess-of-Mine, My Sweet Angel, Little Healer, and it goes on. The latest is Snow Lion. I will tell you more about that name later. My preference is to be called Abbey, thank you, spelled as you see it here.
Okay, so you now know that I am Abbey. You also know the name I prefer to be called by, and even how I like to see it spelled. Yes, I am fussy, but only about certain things: my name, and that all the fur on my body lay in the right direction. Hence, I am clean and beautiful; but please dear reader, do not think me vain or pompous. I am feline. We are, most often, elegant and graceful. That is fact. Moreover, we are not aloof and wholly independent: but opposite. It is reported that one of the greatest thinkers of the 20th century, Albert Einstein, said, "Music and cats offer the only escape from the miseries of life." Winston Churchill adds the reason why in my opinion saying, "A cat is a riddle, inside an enigma, inside a delightful pelt of cuddliness." Based on my shabby beginnings, I hardly think of myself as superior, or narcissistic.
Mom's past Journals included brief, meaningful nods to me titled "The Book of Abbey." I am my human Mom's cat: her companion and guide as she is mine. We have been together for one year. I wish to share my insights and thoughts about my experiences these past twelve months; especially those of the past few weeks.
A Sad Beginning
In October 2013, I was abandoned on Route 9 W, tossed into a mud puddle near McDonalds, forced to eat greasy scraps of food, and all sorts of unsavory things too foul to mention here. I also had to fight for my life. I was dirty and severely scratched from these fights, mostly with others of my kind. I bear my feline fellows no ill will, for it was about survival. I myself do not like violence. After living with my Mom this past year, I have given great thought to my inherent nature: that of predator. Mom reads about non-violence, reverence of life, compassion and freedom from suffering for all beings and creatures. This is a conundrum for me in so many ways that I … Oh my, I want to tell you more, but Mom would not like this digression, nor my leaping ahead in my narrative. Not … At … All!
Okay, back to the back-story: A woman from a local animal shelter spotted me rummaging through garbage for food, recognizing that while I was not a lofty full-bred, for I am a Basic Model Tabby Cat 101, my demeanor was welcoming, inquisitive, and polite. This kind woman picked me up and I sunk into her arms. She begged the owner of the shelter to take me in. However, they were filled with kittens to adopt for the Holiday Season and had no more room. I was accepted, though, due to my sweet, loving nature. They fed me, cleaned me, and placed me in the front glass room with all the wonderful, cute, cuddly kittens. I feared I would not stand a chance for adoption given I was one year old: those sweet, beguiling balls of fluffy fur were too adorable for anyone to notice me.
December arrived and so did my human Mom-to-Be. She ventured into my shelter the very same day she had put down my soul sister, Lily, whom I never knew when she was alive. I know Lily now, for not only do her ashes remain in our apartment; her gentle spirit graces us too.
When Mom-to-Be walked into the glass room, I was sitting on a shelf, observing the kittens' antics. At first, she looked at all the irresistible kitties: held, admired, and cooed at them as everyone else did before her. I was not jealous: just resigned. I sat still as a statue, trying for an aura of elegance and wisdom (something cute unworldly kittens don't possess), when she spotted me and walked over to my shelf, which was level with her shoulders. I couldn't help myself; I knew I wanted her. There was a blend of sadness and joy in her energy. I gently reached out with one paw and then the other, when she in turn reached for the rest of me and said "Oh my, you sweet child." That was it. We sat for twenty minutes: Mom holding me to her chest, while I felt her fresh, raw grief through her warm heart. I nuzzled as far into her shoulder as I possibly could; presenting a resounding purr of gratitude that rivaled that of a large lioness. It was done. Someone picked ME, and she took me home.
Life With Mom
Wowee! Mom's apartment has four good-sized windows with sills to sit, or lay upon. Each overlooks the woods with varying views. I like this one where our family Buddha resides on a table below the window. I sit there a lot if I'm not next to Mom on the windowsill to the right of her desk watching her work. I keep close tabs on her time working on the computer. When I sense she is weary, I pad across the desk to distract her. When she ignores this, I try padding across the keyboard. This usually does it. Well, it always does it. I do get a loud NO, but my strategy works every time: she leaves her desk with me in her arms.
The wild life outside of my windows is amazing, and alas, tantalizing too. I try, I truly do, to contain myself and meditate on the beauty of these beings rather than the consumption of them. This is one of my calmer moments-in-meditation.
Yet, I am not always calm. I am two years old this month and still have a goodly amount of kitten in me! I run away with my Mom's glasses and hide them. I lie on my back and slide across the floor wiggling my hips. She loves this and I giggle, moving so fast she is unable to take a picture. If she doesn't pay attention to my eating time, I will nuzzle up to her and then gently bite her ankles. Yikes! How bad am I? I also like to scoot and fly through the apartment, taking death-defying leaps to a chair, then a table, the bookcase, a windowsill or two, the Buddha bench, and then flop into reverie, or … torpor.
Mom's a photographer, so she often ventures out early morning to do her work. In late November, Mom came back from one of her walks and said, "Abbey, I found a miracle. There was one white flower left in our neighbor's garden. Look!" And, I did … after she uploaded it to her computer.
This year's Thanksgiving, our first together, brought a winter wonderland snowstorm. Mom and I were inside all day watching the first large, juicy flakes of the season cover the ground, trees, and limbs. It was snowing such a beautiful snow, all fluff, making the world a magical storybook for that moment-in-time. Mom decided to put up the Christmas tree that day.
When it was all done, the most amazing vision was presented to me: a petite frisson. I sat for hours pawing at 'colored beings' just outside the window. No matter how much, or how gently I would pat, pat, pat, they remained still, not reacting to my presence. Nevertheless, it was a delightful exercise in mindfulness.
Okay. Forget the mindfulness. I was, shall we say, a bit slow about those 'beings.' It took me one day to realize that the colored beings outside were a reflection of our tree's lights. However, I had a great time just patting away on the window. I eventually found a favorite resting place under the tree. I like this picture because I'm all blue! I think that's really cool for a Basic Model Tabby Cat 101.
Months ago, I understood Mom's rhythm: when she wakes there are things she will do before tending to me. Oh, make no assumptions: I do not go hungry. Mom rises before I care to, so it's a mere half hour before I'm fed and she settles into reading with her hot mug of Scottish Breakfast tea. She always reads a book having to do with philosophy, religion, or Dickens … Ooh, I must digress and tell you that she read Dickens's "Christmas Carol" aloud to me. How wonderful, wonderful that truly was … Marley's ghost, the three Spirits, old Scrooge becoming human and humane … delicious characters with whimsical names, and those delectable Dickensian words. Oh my. What a treat! There are poems too that she reads especially for me; oft times a meaningful Buddhist or Celtic prayer.
One icy, cold morning, following the Thanksgiving snowstorm, darkness prevailed while Mom lit candles and incense. This is part of our morning ritual, and I have to say I love the warm glow, pungent Tibetan scent, and serenity of it all. We began our morning reading when Mom finally sat in her chair by the window, while I positioned myself on the windowsill. (I believe she was thumbing through "Evolution of the Word" by Marcus Borg. This is quite a tome and I am so totally grateful she is not reading it aloud.) In moments, there appeared on the horizon an unmistakable beginning of a mystical sunrise: a convergence of the sun's first appearance; the pristine white blanketing the forest floor; black tree trunks and limbs with immovable white crystalline snow clinging to the entirety of the landscape. Sitting together watching the sun's ascent, I experienced a peacefulness and quietude within: as if we were the only two beings in the world to witness this event. I knew in that grace-filled moment how blessed we are to be able to see these wonders of nature. Mom gently massaged my ears throughout.
Do you remember when I was expatiating about the myriad of names I'm called? And, that Snow Lion is one of them? There's a reason, of course. Mom is reading "The Dalai Lama's Cat," by David Michie. Her name is Snow Lion. She too was a rescue in the streets of Delhi. She is a beautiful Himalayan, though slightly crippled in her hind legs. Snow Lions in Tibet are celestial animals, representing unconditional happiness. They are animals of great beauty, vibrancy, and delight.
I believe I am all those things to my Mom, but am thankful she no longer refers to me as her Snow Lion. Celestial? I'm not so certain about that. I am Abbey: Basic Model Tabby Cat 101, providing devotion, companionship, love, and great joy.
I want to share one of my favorite Celtic prayer-poems that Mom reads aloud. I hope that some day I will achieve humility and compassion enough to be a healing light in world:
"Open my senses to Wisdom's inner promptings
that I may give voice to what I hear in my soul
and be changed for the healing of the world;
that I may listen for truth in every living soul
and be changed for the well-being of the world."
~A Celtic Psalter, J. Philip Newell
I am content. I'm healthy. The bloody scratches and missing patches of fur when Mom first brought me home me are gone. They've been replaced with a plush, silky coat due to Mom's good diet for me. I play; I laugh; I love. And now, dear readers, I have said enough.
It is time for my nap. Sort of.
Dear snoozing Abbey. It's your Mom darling. You are my healing light. I give gratitude each day for your presence in my life and the well-being you've created for me. Sweet dreams my little Snow Lion (oops).
There are many notable books, including the Dalai Lama's Cat cited earlier, where animals of all types and species have communicated to us: thoughts, fears, humor, sweet joys, and silent sorrows. There are several though that inspired Abbey and me to write this piece (for she sits on my desk even now up to this final moment), not the least of which was recently written by a dear friend and colleague, Stephen Fajen: The White Lash.
Others include:
Watership Down, by Richard Adams
The Art of Racing in the Rain, by Garth Stein
Wind in the Willows, by Kenneth Grahame
And, though the dogs in this particular book, do not speak per se, there is one, Almondine, whose thoughts are clearly and elegantly expressed: The Story of Edgar Sawtelle, by David Wroblewski.
"Read, read, read. Read everything." ~ William Faulkner
Wishing all of you a healthy, happy, peace-filled 2015!
"but remember, it's a sin to a kill a mockingbird."
October 9, 2014 § 3 Comments
On 3 June 2014, I walked into the conference room of the Independent Living Center of the Hudson Valley in Troy to teach a 'personal photojournalism course' — written essays with related photographs. The focus: write about how your disability affects your life.
I readied the conference room-cum-classroom for the next six weeks: cameras, notebooks, and pens were set at each seat. The participants — Barbara, Shameka, Robbie, Carolyn, Walter, Kimberly, Denise, and Janet, ranging in age from eighteen to sixty-five, arrived with a variety of disabilities: speech and learning, spina bifida, polio, scoliosis, epilepsy, mild retardation, severe ADD, and muscular dystrophy. Some never held a camera or spent time writing; others did a lot of one or the other.
I thought the process I developed to achieve our goal was easy. I was wrong. It is neither simple, nor painless, to walk into past and present wounds, and then tell the world. An action with potential to re-shape minds and hearts? That is heroic.
For six weeks we talked, took pictures, and wrote themes inching towards the final essay. We laughed and we cried: probably an equal amount of both, though the need for Kleenex tissue boxes increased as the weeks rolled on. I could write a thousand words, and more, about injustice, humiliation, biases, disregard, ignorance, and impoverished awareness concerning consumers with disabilities.
I fell in love with eight people. Normally I would use an adjective and describe them as "exceptional." I dare not! They would wag their fingers at me, saying, "We are normal: not anything more; certainly not anything less." Yet, I saw and felt their wounds and witnessed bravery. These are my heroes. I asked them to reach for the stars. And they did.
Robbie, full of desire to free himself from harsh labels,
writes an indictment of the system that creates them.
Denise, ever the activist, speaks
for justice while decrying injustice.
Carolyn, filled with beauty and magnanimity,
writes through constant pain for the love of writing.
Walter, brilliant with a camera, shows us beauty-in-precision
with a touch of whimsy.
Janet, with a wink-and-a-smile,
demonstrates what perseverance accomplishes.
Shameka, stoic yet strong for everyone,
tells us why love is important.
Kimberly exemplifies truth-well-told,
and what 'walking-the-walk' means.
Barbara, filled with equanimity and compassion,
writes her story with warmth and humor
peppered with stark realities.
The Mockingbird Quote
Why is it a sin to kill a Mockingbird? In Harper Lee's Pulitzer Prize winning novel, To Kill A Mockingbird, we learn that the Mockingbird lives solely to sing, never harming a crop, flower, or tree. It symbolizes two vital characters, both disabled: Boo Radley and Tom Robinson. Each gentle, neither caused harm, both were unfairly and unmercifully discriminated against. Ignorance and resistance to understanding the unfamiliar prevailed.
On 21 October 2014, from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m., The Independent Living Center of the Hudson Valley will host the Opening Exhibition of the photographs and writings of the participants in this groundbreaking program. Come and meet the artists … and truly see through their eyes and hear their hearts. I guarantee it will be a life-changing experience.
This past July, "independent living" for consumers with disabilities
moved from being a mere program into an "administration."
THE INDEPENDENT LIVING ADMINISTRATION was
established on 22 July 2014 when President Barack Obama
signed the Workforce Innovation
and Opportunity Act into law.
It is time for me to stop and for you to read Our Stories.
one morning in the fog
September 20, 2014 § 1 Comment
It is a season of change: crisp, cool mornings; cars covered in dew; evenings demand a light blanket; phantom-like mists wind around forest trees and hover over meadows; the harvest is abundant with apples and pumpkins. These are the signposts: our landscape and mountaintops will soon be draped in blazing color and frosty nights.
Following an early morning ritual of reading (currently it is Dickens's Pickwick Papers), writing, and consuming a good quantity of freshly brewed Scottish Breakfast tea, I embarked on my daily walk at about seven o'clock. My path took me through the charming, historic streets of the Village of Athens. My plan: complete the last quarter mile at the Riverfront.
Once there, I was stunned. The River, and the River only, was enveloped in a fog so thick it blocked out the sun's warmth I felt just moments before. I thought I was living in Maine again; or, I had unwillingly been transported into a Stephen King novel to be terrorized by some horrific clown event that could only emerge from King's mischievous yet fiendish imagination. (I'm a fan of both the man and his writing.)
There was no terror; only fog and the mystery it conjures. Standing there wrapped in mist, I thought of questions I've asked myself for months, maybe a year now, common to many of us at one point or another in our lives: who am I; what do I really do and why do I do it; what have I contributed to the world in my seventy-one years; have I made a difference for betterment in some small way?
I've been haunted by a passage in Isak Dinesen's, "Out of Africa:" Will the air over the plain quiver with a color that I have had on, or the children invent a game in which my name is, or the full moon throw a shadow over the gravel of the drive that was like me, or will the eagles of the Ngong Hills look out for me? An eloquent way of asking: Will I be remembered?
Neither fog, nor River, provided answers; I didn't expect them to. Questions with no answers are what Age carries in her satchel as she dispenses dichotomies of joys and sorrows; glory and humiliation; wisdom and wandering, lost minds.
This one morning, though, presented a Divine Intervention for me as I studied the breathtaking sight: the struggle between the fog's determination to shroud the River; the sun's inevitable supremacy, which would erase the fog.
I love these images. I hope you do too.
I completed my photo shoot and walk. I felt alive. I felt whole. Equanimity was mine; though, for too brief a time. I often abandon that which feeds my soul in the name of busyness, meaningless gossip, superficial activities, and the need to put food on the table. The latter, a reality. The fog eventually evaporated; so did the feeling of serenity.
Impermanence is the Law of the Universe. So be it.
The Book Of Abbey
Abbey is well, thriving, and more accepting of cuddling. She loves a new game I created called belly-blow-kisses. She rolls and wiggles and, dare I say, looks like she's laughing. This image, though not of her laughing, was taken during an iPhone experiment. I like it. I used the Noir filter. It was fun to do.
More To Come
In a few weeks, I will be writing about a life-changing experience for eight courageous people and me. Look for Mockingbird in the title!
I've said enough.
Thank you for your willingness to take this virtual tour with me …
One Morning in the Fog.
making time for siddhartha's time
July 13, 2014 § 3 Comments
Days of Rain
Rain. Seemingly ceaseless. Our landscape presents a lush, green world of heavily leafed trees and flora with blooming flowers that span, even surpass, the widest spectrum of hues possible on an artist's palette. Tree limbs, weighted with an extravaganza of viridian growth, bend over our country back roads nearly connecting one side to the other, creating Nature's cathedral ceilings. The superfluity of birds that reside in the small forest outside my windows, normally blatantly vocal raising their songs in high hosannas, sing soft hymns during this steadfast cleansing of the land.
I love rain. Since my working time is flexible, for the most part, a solid downpour offers me permission to enter into Siddhartha's time — a time of nameless quality. Days of rain provide an opportunity for me to detach from life's daily rounds and bring to fruition here what has dwelled in the pages of my hand-written journal and the confines of my camera far too long as well as immerse myself into the number of 'working books' I have scattered about.
I just finished an exquisite Dean Koontz novel, Innocence*, that surprised me in its elegant, oft times poetic style, and the sheer poignancy of a story concerning light and dark, the beatified and the cruel, and the sanctity of love. Koontz opens with a quote from Petrarch's De Remedies: Rarely do great beauty/and great virtue dwell together. Yet, his skillful story telling, well-drawn characters we grow to love while fearing others, his apparent passion for, and articulate use of, words and phrasing, lyrical at times, shows us how beauty and virtue can intertwine.
I am delving in and out of Jung's Red Book. Jung wrote about a self-experimental period in his life that became known as "confrontation of the unconscious." This pivotal period began in 1913 and continued through 1930. He wrote about his dreams, fantasies, and techniques to "get to the bottom of [his] inner processes," later calling this method "active imagination." Jung first recorded these fantasies and dreams in his Black Books. After some revisions of the texts, and added reflections, he copied them in calligraphic script no less, accompanied by his paintings, into a book entitled Liber Novus bound in red leather, which became known as the The Red Book. Jung wrote of this transcendent period:
The years of which I have spoken to you, when I pursued the inner images, were the most important time of my life. Everything else is to be derived from this. It began at that time, and the later details hardly matter anymore. My entire life consisted in elaborating what had burst forth from the unconscious and flooded me like an enigmatic stream and threatened to break me. That was the stuff and material for more than only one life. Everything later was merely the outer classification, scientific elaboration, and the integration into life. But the numinous beginning, which contained everything, was then.
It is hardly coincidence then that in addition to my fascination with Jung's Red Book, I have added once again to my morning ritual of reading and writing my well-worn copy of Herman Hesse's, Siddhartha. Hesse and Jung were friends and corresponded over a period of years. (Miguel Serrano, a Chilean diplomat, writer, and poet, wrote a book titled, C.G. Jung and Hermann Hesse, A Record of Two Friendships, which is still available, providing yet another lens through which to see the greatness of these two scholarly, soul-filled men.)
Siddhartha is one of those remarkable books that haunts. We can return to this slim volume again and again with each cycle of our lives, uncovering another layer of insight, another reason to pause and take personal inventory. My connection to it now, perhaps, is not only that I am in my seventh decade of life and these matters of soul and spirit and quality of being become more relevant as there are fewer years ahead than behind, but also, simply, that I live so close to the Hudson River, which I photograph endlessly as my own form of introspection. My time at the river's edge is a constant reminder that Siddhartha finally found his true inner-peace at his river's shore:
Above all, he [Siddhartha] learned from it [the River] how to listen, to listen with a still heart, with a waiting, open soul, without passion, without desire, without judgment, without opinion.
Ah. There it is. Serenity — love in the absolute.
For years when I came to this passage in the book, tears slowly formed rivulets down my face. I so wanted to be in that place 'with a waiting, open soul' Siddhartha reached after a lifetime of Saṃsāra: wealth, starvation, pain, loss, gain, pleasure, suffering again, and then — freedom from suffering, living so simply at the river's edge, ferrying people from one side to the other and listening fully, deeply to them, to the river, to his soul.
Days of Seeing, Hearing, and Being
I often sense the anima of Hesse's Siddhartha accompany me as I take my early morning journeys to witness the unfolding of flowers and hear birdsong as more than mere background; to see a lone dove on a wire (what a moment!); to observe a white lily pure as pristine snow, knowing instantly I will render it in black and white; to be drawn to ordinary remnants of a collision of fallen flowers still colorful, still with reason for being — my camera; to be captured by a simple flower and its creamy yellow hue, appearing to dissolve like the butter its color echoes; to witness the moods and sounds of my river and watch diamonds fall and dance upon it at just the right moment and in yet another to observe the swaths of the whole landscape — the river, land, and sky; and, finally, to be with me while I sit on my cushion in front of the Buddha that resides on an old weathered bench in my living room, observing the smoke of incense dance its dance in graceful, spiral forms I had not wholly seen before.
The Path Continues
It is unlikely I will ever attain Siddhartha's serenity. As with most of humanity, I am flawed and subject to my humanness. Therefore, hurt, fear and anger can, and do, come upon me like tsunamis at times. Not as frequently as in the past, but they arrive at my door nonetheless. Yet, my path continues. As Siddhartha's journey unfolded, he discovered that once one enters onto the path, digression is assured. However, it is inevitable too that we will renew our journey, placing our feet, heart, and souls towards seeking something deep within that we finally recognize as our authentic being.
Though through different disciplines, Jung and Hesse dedicated a substantial amount of their respective life's work to understanding the sum and substance of the soul; searching to illuminate where and how it manifests in our lives — that nameless, perhaps elusive, quality of being that is serenity; that is absolute love.
Koontz continues this theme in his contemporary exemplum, Innocence, with a poetic, powerful statement from the story's protagonist, Addison:
But with one exception, all things pass from this world and time erases not just memories but entire civilizations, reducing everyone and every monument to dust. The only thing that survives is love, for it is an energy as enduring as light, which travels outward from its source toward the ever-expanding boundaries of the universe, the very energy of which all things were conceived and with which all things will be sustained in a world beyond this world of time and dust and forgetting.
The Book of Abbey
Abbey and I have lived together for eight months now. We have adjusted to one another's rhythms and music of our daily lives. She continues to sit on the windowsill next to my desk as I write. She still audaciously walks across my computer and stretches her body full length upon the desk when she needs to be loved up. Though I gently scold her, I have clearly failed to train her in this matter. Therefore, I have no choice but to stop to scratch and pet her and in so doing Abbey provides me with a moment of release from the intensity of my work. She knows me now, but I doubt I will ever fully know her. She amazes me with her petits frissons délicieux de la performance that make me laugh aloud as she recognizes my sheer delight in her very presence.
Thank you again for making time to join me on this particular day. I am continually grateful to those of you who are loyal readers and appreciate my impressionist, painterly images. And, I welcome the many new arrivals from around the world that have subscribed to these Photo-Journals!
*ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: My friend and neighbor, Joe Stefco, publishes special edition books under the moniker, Charnel House. Joe designs each book, from font creation to the selection of handmade paper, to every facet possible involved in the publishing of a book. He has worked with Dean Koontz for decades along with other significant writers. Joe unexpectedly surprised me at lunch one day with a gift of one of his lettered editions of Dean's novel, Innocence. Today, where books are read electronically on a hard, cold piece of plastic and metal, it is a tangible wonderment to hold a book and to turn each hand-stitched page, knowing it was a labor of love for the hands that touched it. Thank you my dear friend. And, thank you Mr. Koontz for writing a mesmerizing, eloquent, and important allegory about authentic beauty, virtue and love … in a world beyond this world of time and dust and forgetting.
my granny: medicine woman
March 1, 2014 § 2 Comments
This is a story about my maternal grandmother. Granny was born poor and died poor, yet had a heart overflowing with love, a spirit that soared higher than the heavens, and a deep, quiet source within from which sprang abundant courage.
Granny was five years old when she traveled across the Atlantic Ocean from Austria to America in 1899. She was not schooled but taught herself to read, write, and speak fluent English. When I was old enough to understand the spoken word, I never detected a hint of an accent though I knew Granny spoke Russian, Polish, and German in addition to her mastery of the English language.
The new images presented throughout this narrative are not of her, or the times and places of events shared. Sadly, these were lost in the innumerable decades of the past. Nevertheless, these winter scenes, recently photographed during our successive snowstorms (taken in the historic Village of Athens, New York where I live), kindled cherished memories of a remarkable woman.
The Snow
When the snow falls, I remember her the most. Everything smells the same. The scent of snow emanates from crystalline water cradled in the wombs of steel gray clouds, as nature stands poised for the right moment to birth juicy, white flakes. Wood smoke emerges from wood stoves and fireplaces, wafting through the air from known but also unknown places with untold stories. And, as the snow begins its descent it gently burdens the limbs of trees while sketching outlines of ordinary things normally overlooked. The elusive cardinal, like Baryshnikov, flies from limb to limb with ease and grace; grave sites and possibly haunted mausoleums in old cemeteries are christened and warmed in a pure white blanket of snow at the hour when dusk makes its entrance; and when the snow comes to rest on the forest floor, it fashions a serene, ethereal landscape in which it seems no living being has ever inhabited. Yes, this is the time, when the snow falls, I remember her the most.
Cleveland, Ohio circa 1948
Trolley car tracks carved serpentine patterns into the streets of the northeast Cleveland, Ohio neighborhood where my grandmother lived. As I plodded along the snow-covered cobblestone walk to my Granny's house and stepped on to the wide-planked wooden front porch, I stamped the snow from my boots and slipped them off before entering her living room through the dark oak entrance door inset with an etched oval glass pane. I passed through the mahogany arch into the dining room and walked a long hallway that led to my grandmother's sanctuary: her kitchen.
There were few things that thrilled me more as a child than the many aromas sent forth from the kitchen where Granny performed the healing of souls through her culinary arts. Sixty-five years later, the mere thought of her homemade Scottish shortbread comprised of those simple but decadent ingredients of creamed butter, sugar, and carefully sifted flour baking in her Franklin wood cook-stove, spark a memory I hold dear: She offers me her large, well-used wooden spoon — the one that stirred so much in so many bowls and belonged to her mother and her mother before her. I lick the last remnants of sweet, grainy dough: the embryonic essence of the shortbread.
Granny was a force of love, offering warmth and light in my life as a child and young woman. She had a salty sense of humor, was whimsical, irreverent, and flirtatious. Ironically though, she was also a devout Roman Catholic and prayed three Rosaries daily. She added a fourth Rosary one fine summer's day after releasing through her kitchen window a particularly nasty, noisy bird — a gift that Grandpa Joe brought home for her that past Easter. So, not unlike an accordion, she added and subtracted Rosaries to her daily prayer routine. This depended on whether she thought she failed, or succeeded, with the Lord that day, hoping that the Blessed Mother would intercede for her. While her faith sustained her to a point, she was most serene when preparing and serving a meal. Her Austrian, Polish, and Russian heritages created a culinary alchemy for delicacies still not well known to too many people: liver dumplings and soup, which took two days to prepare — and, her unsurpassed perogi.
For the uninitiated, a perogi artfully created is a spiritual experience. Granny's perogies were perfectly round pouches, three inches in diameter, of carefully rolled dough filled with pure ecstasies for one's palate. My favorite filling was Farmer's cheese that she seasoned with salt, pepper, a hint of sugar, thinly chopped onion and a beaten egg to hold the mixture together. She would also fill these round orbs of dough with prunes, or sauerkraut with caraway seed, or a pungent meat mixture.
So, I sat watching this artist at her work as she gathered the many and varied ingredients needed to begin the painting of her particular canvas. The food: flour, spices, sugar, meats, cheese, prunes, potatoes, cabbage, green peppers, onions, eggs, butter, salt and pepper. The tools: a rolling pin, flour sifter, potato masher, meat grinder, one large rimmed glass three inches in diameter, waxed paper, rubber bands, cleaned (and ironed) kitchen towels, mixing bowls — all six of them in graduated sizes but not matching, Granny's largest black iron cauldron in which to boil water and her large iron skillet, more waxed paper, and … the Wooden Spoon.
The last task to complete before the cooking process was set in motion was the preparation of the large, square white enameled kitchen table. Granny wiped it spotlessly clean. She then removed her thin gold wedding band, and put on a fresh, crisply ironed apron. Finally, she would place the kitchen stool at the table for herself and remove all but one of the six chairs. The concession of the one chair was for me. Granny wanted no encumbrances around the table when she prepared perogi. But, I was her honored guest.
For Granny, the perogi event was a journey. To the five-year-old girl sitting at her table, mesmerized by the unfolding of this grand performance, it was the end result that counted most. Granny stored many of the pierogi in her short, square icebox for eating at our holiday dinner. But, she reserved a few to be consumed immediately and I had my choice. I could simply eat the perfection of her perogi as they emerged from the boiling water in the black wrought iron cauldron, now front and center on the stove, tossed with butter, salt and pepper. Or, she would turn to the large iron skillet into which she slathered even more butter and slowly sautéed the perogi to a light, golden brown. The skillet sizzled and spat when the perogies were placed into it but it soon settled. The result was a transcendent experience. The ingredients of butter, salt, lightly fried dough, and a spicy-yet-sweet cheese and onion filling, were all interdependent: one single ingredient could no longer exist in this exquisite state without the other.
Cleveland, Ohio circa 1956
My grandmother cooked for all occasions: birthdays, graduations, births, communions, confirmations, holidays, colds and flu, and for no reason at all but for the pure pleasure of creating and healing. (The latter being a result of her genuine efforts and not a conscious goal.)
Granny also put on her apron and took to the stove during times of great sorrow, the most vivid of which for me was when her husband, my Grandpa Joe, succumbed to lung cancer resulting from his many years of work in the coal mines of Ohio.
After leaving the sterile smells and bleak atmosphere of the hospital, I knew her thoughts were only of her husband, friend, lover, and nemesis at times, as she walked into her now empty home. Granny had to be thinking that Grandpa Joe would walk through the door at any moment. Freshly brewed coffee as well as his much loved beer with a raw egg floating in it should be at the ready. (Grandpa Joe was a tippler.) As she entered her kitchen, she reached into a small closet for her apron and wrapped it around her plump waist. I stood watching not knowing what to say or do. I too felt the raw sense of loss and emptiness. I saw Granny withdraw a hand-embroidered cotton handkerchief from her dress pocket to wipe the tears that finally surfaced and trickled down her face. She then turned to me following the long silence and said, "I absolutely must make a pot of chicken soup with homemade noodles." And so she did.
My memories are eternal reminders that the contentment of Granny's open heart, consisting of simple, elegant acts of love and work, was far more important than any luxury and wealth that she would never know, or desire.
Granny's riches were in her calloused, square hands, her thick strong arms that could roll dough for great lengths of time without tiring, and her intuitive sense of touch, taste and innate sensitivity to what was good, or not. Creating culinary delights was in joyful service of others and emanated from her authentic spirit. This was her art form as well as her medicine and it could not be captured or repressed. Not even my grandfather's death could accomplish that. Her unwavering inner spirit, even in the saddest moments, are legacies of great wealth that have sustained me and continue to enrich my life today.
The Book of Abbey
Abbey, introduced in my previous Journal post, has grown to be a constant friend and companion. She is at the entrance door when I arrive home, and greets me upon waking in the morning with a soft purr, offering her plush, silky fur for my hands to gently pet and scratch. She is coquettish in her playfulness and yet a tigress — all seven pounds of feminine feline form. With a reverberating purr, she walks delicately across my computer keyboard when I have been too long at the screen for she seems to know I need a break. I have, thus far, discovered that she does two things really, really well: sleep and meditate with my crystals.
Just to be is a blessing. Just to live is holy. ~Rabbi Abraham HeschelWith the deepest gratitude, I thank you for spending this time with me, sharing my memories of a wonderful grandmother, viewing my latest impressionist painterly images and following the Book of Abbey, which will grow with time.
Blessings and Namasté …
it's a wonderful life
December 26, 2013 § 3 Comments
This is the season-of–seasons for millions of people for there is celebration as well as quietude, if only for moments at a time. It begins after Thanksgiving and continues through the New Year — and beyond for some. It is especially so for Christians, for we celebrate the birth and life of Jesus Christ, eternalizing his radical teachings — a transformational tsunami unlike anything the world has ever known. We can choose to believe, or not. Still, a child was born a little more than two thousand years ago and our world today continues to ponder, debate, and wonder at the impact of His life and teachings.
The season of Advent leading to the Nativity with the anticipation of a New Year hovering near, is significant for me. It is characterized with a deep personal inventory of where I am in my heart, how I am in my soul and spirit — if I have grown to be a better, sincerely authentic human being, and more. It is a challenge that cradles both sweetness and sadness as I continue to walk my path of bends, switchbacks, hills, valleys, as well as flat, smooth terrains.
As we yoke jubilation with introspection and bear witness to yet another year rapidly unfolding to its inevitable close, I offer the following short essays and images 'wrapped in my heartstrings' as a tribute to what a wonderful life this is. Please enjoy!
River Moods
I live two short blocks from the Hudson River and while I've taken numerous pictures of this body of water at various times, I thought the following captured three distinguishing moods from the first tree to turn its vivid red gracing her shores, to the serenity of late fall when all begins to sleep while mists envelop the land and rise from her waters, and in an extravagant announcement of winter, her bold ice breaking yet flowing, ever flowing.
Lily, A Cat Well Loved
A stray cat named Lily walked into my life on a warm September day. She was discarded by her owner in our village and, though a house cat for ten years, was left to fend for herself outdoors. She was thin and malnourished. Her fur hung from protruding bones and a frail body. But it was Lily's eyes that invaded hearts as they hauntingly gazed through to the souls of those who looked upon her. Depending on the light, they changed from emerald green to the color of rare, antique jade.
A neighbor kindly fostered her for a month, keeping her safe and fed. But, Lily still did not gain weight though she was eating heartily. So, she took her to the vet for all the usual tests and Lily passed them all. I then decided to take her as mine for I had fallen 'in love' and this act was the beginning of an extraordinary journey — a path I had not walked before.
After our first month together and many visits to the vet to determine why she remained so thin, weighing a mere four pounds, we finally learned she was consumed with cancer. Lily asked me in her own way to let her go. She hid in secret places and no longer held down food or water. She became dangerously dehydrated on one occasion. It was apparent that Lily had finished her work here in this life by being with me, and I would like to believe she was needed elsewhere, spreading her tender mercies of love and devotion. For that is what this wonderful creature was: unconditional love, gentle and sweet, wrapped in a rare, palpable beauty.
She followed the sun as it streamed through my windows, sometimes watching birds, others just sleeping and snoring. Apart from my deep love for her, this was all I could offer: safety, warmth, comfort, and my loving hands as I petted and stroked her tender body.
Two months to the day from when I brought her into my home, Lily had to be put down. When my vet gave her the first tranquilizing injection, my friend and I said prayers and sang a lullaby. With her green eyes still open and her heart still beating against my hand as I held her, we gently closed her eyes. She was out of pain and relaxed. The final injection was just that. Her heartbeat and breathing stopped as she lay in my arms.
I did not see death. I witnessed transition. I kept her body with me for a full twenty-four hours ensconced in sage, lavender, and her favorite green knitted blanket. I felt her spirit surround me along with a calming peace and joy. I wept tears, but briefly, while I anointed her head throughout the day with special oils. I have Lily's ashes now and will some day spread them in an appropriate place. I believe she will let me know when and where.
When Spirit Stands Still
Minor White, a war photographer of stature, and mentor for many photographers in the first half of the Twentieth Century, once said, "No matter how slow the film, Spirit always stands still long enough for the photographer IT has chosen."
Neither of the following two images was planned, nor could they be. Nature was moving rapidly on both occasions. In one, the sheer audacity of sun and black sky converging for only a moment made it almost impossible to capture. In the other, titled "Sky," it was the swift movement of flowing clouds and flirtatious light reflecting through them at a speed that felt as if it was less than an instant in time, that encouraged me to title the image "Sky," rather than tree. Was I in the right place at the right time? Yes — and no. I am often in the right place and time, yet there is no music in the image I capture. When there is music, mystery, or both, which I believe is the case with these two images; I know that Spirit 'stood still long enough.' Thank you.
The Book of Abbey
In honor of Lily and the precious, short time in which she enriched and graced my life, I adopted a younger female cat, about one year old, and chose the name Abigail. In the Old Testament, names were not blithely given. They had meaning and relevance. Abigail was the second wife of King David. In Hebrew, her name translated to 'Father's Joy.' And, my Abbey Gail, is all joy.
Abbey too has some physical challenges we are working to resolve. After all, shelter life is not easy even under the best of circumstances. But she is young, strong, bright, playful, sweet, loves a good lap to purr on, and a warm cuddle. Most assuredly too, she eats like a small tiger. So, Abbey occupies yet another room in my heart filled with love, for Lily taught me how much love I have to give and that I must keep on giving it for my heart will merely grow larger, adding on rooms as they are needed. Thank you dear Lily.
And, thank you my adorable Abbey for your delightful, flirtatious, and jaunty ways, which bring surprise, solace, and giggles into my heart as your Book begins here in these pages. These two images present rare moments when Abbey was truly still. In the first, she was clearly mesmerized by a hanging object, my window crystal, and in the other she actually settled down long enough for my camera's shutter to capture and release!
It IS a wonderful life! Of course I have had my share of change, fears, joys, laughter, love, and loss. I believe though that it is the most difficult of these that offer our greatest lessons. When our hearts crack open with grief, love pours out … even if we are not fully aware of it at the moment. In this outpouring our hearts open to love more, striving to be better in our humanness. Living life is the most precious journey of all and we are free to choose what to do, how to feel, and what right actions to take with the lessons given along our pathways.
A quote from an Unknown Author (Courtesy of Sarah Ban Breathnach's book, Simple Abundance):
If, as Herod, we fill our lives with things, and again with things; if we consider ourselves so important that we must fill every moment of our lives with action, when will we have the time to make the long, slow journey across the desert as did the Magi? Or sit and watch the stars as did the shepherds? Or brood over the coming of the child as did Mary? For each one of us, there is a desert to travel. A star to discover. And, a being within ourselves to bring to life.
And He said, "Peace I leave with you; my own peace I give you."
John 14:27
I feel the deepest gratitude for each of you who have faithfully read the pages of this online Journal. Your comments have meant so much to me over these past few years. They serve as support and each word is a blessing. May this coming year be a wonderful life for you … never perfect, but always so in its imperfection.
turning seventy
August 17, 2013 § 6 Comments
Perhaps many people consider seventy years of age as "old." After all, there are seven decades of life lived, Medicare and social security (hopefully), and many more physicians in one's life than ever before … even if you are reasonably, or extraordinarily, well. Then there is the school of thought that seventy is the new sixty, sixty the new fifty and so forth. While this might be a pacifying concept, I believe it was created to perpetuate our culture's obsessiveness with youth rather than celebrating the gifts of each season of our lives, especially those of Elderhood.
I begin my seventieth year on Tuesday, August 27. My life is not perfect but it is plentifully blessed. It is graced with a simple abundance. I have no material riches or golden parachutes upon which to financially coast, and nothing of value — as our world defines it. Yet, I feel endowed with wealth given the beauty of nature and life that surround me, the friends, neighbors, and extended family that have come into my life, and the work God has given me to do with the talents that I probably do not use enough. The wonderful Erma Bombeck said, "When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, 'I used everything you gave me."
This too is my hope, prayer, and goal.
I seek to live authentically, fully accepting who I am now. Of course, I have a few more aches and pains. I walk at a brisk but thoughtful pace almost every morning, as I can no longer run four miles daily. I am no longer a size-six jean. Instead, I am a tad more full-figured. And importantly, I like how I look and feel for it has softened the harder edges in my face as well as my heart. I am grateful for the creative talents that have been given me together with my search for what I can contribute as a form of 'personal ministry' as I move forward into this next stage of my life.
Yes, I said forward. I am not a survivor of seven decades, or retired — I am still on my way!
I have no great wisdom to pass on but merely a few musings that apply to my experience and may also apply to you, or someone you know.
- The joys of my life have nothing to do with age.
- The morning sunrises and evening sunsets always thrill for never are they the same.
- The light, whether sun or clouds, rain or snow, cast upon the landscape for my photographer's eye to see and, perhaps, capture, always presents a new beginning.
- The arias of birdsong in the mornings are my wake-up call. The insects, like a Philip Glass composition with its repetitive structures, lull me to sleep at night.
- I listen for the sound of snow for it quiets the busyness in my head.
- When a gentle rain falls, there is a Christening of the land that provides a meditation in grace.
- I live more completely in the moments of my hours and days (at least I try). It comes easier now for I am more detached from areas of pain, the loss of love and things, the fear of death.
- Importantly for me, one who lived on an ambitious, aggressive fast track for all of my teen and adult years, I am more available to truly speak with, listen to, and be with friends … even hand-write a note or card instead of e-mail. Just "being" with people, if only in passing, with a focused and respectful awareness of them and what they and their souls have to say has become a daily gift.
- Finally, these seven decades and events of my life have taught me the blessing of humility — a quality frequently misunderstood in our frantically busy and too often violent world.
These past two years have been watershed markings for me personally. My home and studio are no more. I sold every piece of silver, china, crystal, multiple cameras, custom made clothing, accessories, and most of my jewelry as well as gave away many things to churches and other organizations for the needy. I shed every possible extra or unused item in my life, including books and music. I only kept what I knew I would return to for inspiration and solace and the basic tools for my writing and photography.
At the moment of this writing, I sit in a lovely corner of my bedroom, now my official studio, next to a window where I hear an occasional bird in song and the humming of insects. I live in a small, Zen-like apartment with windows that overlook only wooded land and the wildlife that resides there. I take my morning walks through the quaint historic village of Athens, New York and am two short blocks from the mighty Hudson River. I could not ask for more. I have all I need — or want.
I have curated a medley of images from the past fifteen years in which I see truth and hear music. These are my personal criteria for they tell me if an image is worthy. Whether or not you have seen some of these, I sincerely hope you enjoy the retrospective. There is a brief Coda following the images that you may wish to read.
A Coda
Mary Oliver has long been my muse. And though this image is not her "Red Bird" from her exemplary book, "Red Bird Poems," I heard her reverence for everything in nature when I came upon my 'bird on the fence' along the Hudson River amongst a plethora of flowers one warm, mist-filled summer morning.
Red Bird Explains Himself (Excerpted) by Mary Oliver"…And this was my true task, to be the music of the body. Do you understand? For truly the body needs a song, a spirit, a soul. … And I am both of the earth and I am of the inexplicable beauty of heaven where I fly so easily, so welcome, yes, and this is why I have been sent, to teach this to your heart."
Please rejoice with me on this milestone birthday and know that we are always beginning, always being reborn along with the whole of Nature and its cycles of seasons.
Blessed Be.


text:
Sorry for the inconvenience. Chance of typos in templates, the navigation header should be functional for most versions of the handbook.
Potential remains for unforeseen breakage primarily in the handbook portion of the wiki.
Notice will be up until above verified and no other troubles found from recent modifications.
From PC-BSD Wiki
Revision as of 12:45, 1 September 2013 by Tigersharke (Talk | contribs)
This template eases the amount of typing needed to place the GroupList header and symbol for the Cite function.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
A collection of news and information related to University of Minnesota published by this site and its partners.
Top University of Minnesota Articles
Displaying items 78-88
What's with 'come with'?
A reversal on carbs
Cleaning up your carb act: Where to begin
Bears win NFC North with 40-14 victory over Vikings
Parenting experts weigh in on 'Tiger Mother'
Ron Paul calls it quits
Blog | Jun 12, 2008by Katie Fretland Tonight in a formal announcement that was foreshadowed by his low popularity in the Republican primaries, Ron Paul will tell his supporters that his campaign for president is over. Paul (R-Texas) will instead launch a different kind........ -
Stadium presentation -- Round 1
Blog | Jul 15, 2008HOK was up first. Impressive resume. From Heiniz Field in Pittsburgh to building University of Minnesota's new stadium for $220 million. Some tidbits: The overall budget is $62 million, and they figured $48 million for the stadium itself, and, "I...... -
McCain, Obama running mates: Guess
Blog | Jul 29, 2008by Mark Silva If Sens. John McCain and Barack Obama have pared their short lists for running mates as much as confidants and speculators say they have, they are down to a very short list indeed: With names such as...... -
Obama, McCain stiff voters on health facts
Blog | Oct 20, 2008by Frank James Why aren't the medical records of the presidential and vice presidential candidates an open book? That's the critical question raised in the last two days by presidential historian Robert Dallek in an opinion piece in the Washington...... -
More women choose prophylactic mastectomy [Updated]
Story | Sep 28, 2009The choice to remove a healthy breast in order to avoid breast cancer is a deeply personal decision that appears to be on the upswing in one group of women, according to a study published today in the journal Cancer....... -
But surely people providing healthcare have health insurance
Story | Oct 16, 2009As the nation's leaders discuss who should get health insurance and in what fashion and how much it should cost, many people who provide healthcare are watching from the sidelines. First, the Kaiser Family Foundation offered up an analysis this......


text:
We ought not consent to a piece of paper that says the psychopathic megalomaniacs in society will have the legitimate right to steal from us and our children in perpetuity and, in addition, have the final right as unilateral arbitrator in any conflict that should arise.
To do so would be insane.
- Login to post comments


text:
Dr. Reinaldo A. Camargo Salcedo, MD
Internal Medicine, Holy Cross Medical Group
- 1900 E Commercial Blvd Ste 101
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 - 1 Office Location
- (954) 351-5838
Dr. Reinaldo A. Camargo Salcedo graduated from the Univ Indust Santander, Div De Cien De La Salud, Bucaramanga, Colombia in 1998. He works in Fort Lauderdale, FL and specializes in Internal Medicine and Internal Medicine - Geriatrics. Dr. Camargo Salcedo is affiliated with Holy Cross Hospital. He speaks English and Spanish.
Gender: Male
Years in Practice: 17 Years
Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
Medical School: Univ Indust Santander, Div De Cien De La Salud, Bucaramanga, Colombia
Graduation Date: 1998
Hospital Affiliations: Holy Cross Hospital
Specialties: Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine - Geriatrics


text:
Thanks for redeeming.
{{else}}Success! Thanks for repurchasing.
{{/if}} {{else}} {{#if Expired}}Increase my visibility!
{{else}} {{#if IsMultiPack}}{{#if HasMultiPack}} You have {{MultiPackCount}} top spot(s) left. Now loading you into the search listings... {{else}} You have used all top spots. Now loading you into the search listings... {{/if}}
{{else}}We are loading you into the search listing pages...
{{/if}} {{/if}} {{/if}} {{/if}}{{Current}} just saw you!
{{/if}} {{#if LastTopSpotPurchaseIsMulti }} {{#if HasAnyTopSpot}}{{#if HasFreeTopSpot }} {{ UnclaimedTopSpotFree }} Free {{/if}} {{#if HasPaidTopSpot }} {{#if HasFreeTopSpot }} & {{/if}} {{ MultiPackCount }} {{/if}} Top Spot{{#if Plural}}s{{/if}} Left
{{else}}0 Top Spot{{#if Plural}}s{{/if}} Left
{{/if}} {{else}} {{#if HasFreeTopSpot }}{{ UnclaimedTopSpotFree }} Free Top Spot{{#if Plural}}s{{/if}} Left
{{/if}} {{/if}} {{else}} {{#if HasResults}}{{Current}} see you now!
{{else}} {{/if}} {{/if}}30 year old woman | La Crosse, WI, USA | Seeking men 26-35 within 1000 miles
Hard working woman that also likes to have fun. I want a man that's compassionate, understanding, caring, thoughtful, honest, attractive!
I guess I'll start off by saying my family is very important to me, and we're all pretty close knit. We usually get together once a week to catch up with one another over a good home cooked meal. We spend time with every one's kids, and enjoy watching the new things they've learned, and cute things they do. We're all very cheerful and loving, so it's a heart warming feeling to be in the presence of my family. Speaking of company, that's the only thing I'm missing right now. The company of a special man to share all my love, and joy in life with. I really just want a guy that can be like a best friend, and a boyfriend. Some qualities I'm looking for in a guy would be; caring, trustworthy, responsible,easy going, fun, adventurous, understanding, thoughtful, and attractive. I realize no body's perfect and that flaws should be accepted, and expected in everyone. Although, I can't be with a man who truly doesn't embody these qualities. All of them are important to me in order to be happy with the one I'm with. I enjoy a lot of the simple pleasures in life, and enjoy making others happy. I volunteer at the local animal shelter because I absolutely love all animals. I have a special place in my heart for Pit-bulls because they're such a misunderstood breed of dogs. I do own one myself, but don't be mistaken I raised my buddy to be a lover, not a fighter, a lick er, not a biter. I feel it's all about being educated on the breed, understanding and acknowledging their needs, strengths, and weaknesses. One of my ultimate goals is to start my own animal rescue. If I had to describe myself with one word it would be real. I'm just a real honest, real caring, real compassionate, real fun loving, real outgoing, real passionate....You get the point... I am true to myself and my feelings, so I'll tell you exactly how I feel...No guessing games. If you want to know something, than just ask me. I am intelligent, and a lot of fun to be around. People would say I'm a very easy person to get along with, and warm up to right away. I'm just a very positive person and search for the good in any negative situation that I find myself in. Now, on to some things I enjoy doing; like spending time on a beach. I am an extreme water lover. Anything that has to do with water, or a beach is very enjoyable to me. Although, I still have yet to see an ocean I will someday soon. I like camping and making s'mores, and gazing at the beautiful stars. When I go camping I usually like to grab a canoe and go down a river as well. The beautiful outdoors is where I like to be! I just loving living life to it's fullest, in a fun and adventurous way. I've also found myself really liking school. It's fun for me to learn new things, and improve my knowledge and skills while I earn a degree. I saved the best for last, and that's my beautiful daughter. She's so special to me, and makes me feel like nothing else matters. She's the best daughter a mom could ask for. She usually wakes up with the biggest, and cutest baby smile ever! She just makes being a mom so much fun, and rewarding. I'm a very determined woman. If there's something I want to do, than will do it, or find a way to. I like a man that can be determined and passionate about things he does in life as well.
Camping , Cooking , Dining out , Hobbies and crafts , Movies/Videos , Exploring new areas , Nightclubs/Dancing , Playing cards , Travel/Sightseeing , Volunteering
Aerobics, Auto racing / Motorcross, Basketball, Billiards / Pool, Bowling, Dancing, Other types of exercise, Running, Skiing, Swimming, Tennis / Racquet sports, VolleyBall, Walking / Hiking
I exercise 3-4 times per week.
I have Dogs, Fish
I like Birds, Cats, Horses, Other
Middle of the Road
The shower :)
Western Technical College, La Crosse, WI
I have a true love for Pitbulls. They are misunderstood dogs, and can be really great if raised properly....With a lot of TLC. They just have a poor reputation due to bad owners that don't know the first thing about the breed, or their needs.
I enjoy spending time with my beautiful daughter. I also like taking my dog to the park, or hiking. If it was summer my list would be packed of fun things I enjoy doing, but during the winter it's not the same. Sledding, sking, hot chocolate..... :)
School books. Baby books... Haha
Her | What she is looking for | |
Appearance | ||
Height: | 5'6" (167cms) | 6'0" (182cms) to 7'0" (213cms) |
Body type: | About average | Athletic and toned, A few extra pounds, Stocky |
Eyes: | Brown | No preference |
Hair: | Dark brown | Black, Light brown, Dark brown, Dark blonde |
Lifestyle | ||
Smoke: | No Way | No preference |
Drink: | Social Drinker | Social Drinker |
Occupation: | Self-Employed / Entrepreneur | No preference |
also a student |
Income: | I'll tell you later | No preference |
Relationship: | Never Married | Never Married, Divorced |
Have kids: | Yes, and they live at home (1) | No preference |
Wants kids: | Someday | Definitely, Someday, Not sure |
Background / Values | ||
Ethnicity: | White / Caucasian | No preference |
Faith: | Spiritual but not religious | Spiritual but not religious |
I have gone to church throughout my childhood, but just haven't since. |
Languages: | English | English |
Education: | Some college | Some college, Associates degree, Bachelors degree, Graduate degree, PhD / Post Doctoral |
I'm currently in my third year of college. |


text:
Get ideas and inspiration, find easy to use patterns
and tutorials for your next sewing project.
by Renee Adams
For Saleby Simplastic
by Lela1983
by jorth
by ana555
by gnarlyis3
by ana555
by mezzocouture
by ArtNinja14
by ArtNinja14
by ArtNinja14
by ArtNinja14
by ArtNinja14
by Anshu Jain
For Saleby tatomta
by xnickerxje
by liliashp
by corawoodward
by gillthecat
by Lunie Blue
by brownlow3
by brownlow3
Make itCourses
Check out Denise's new video and find out why you should sign up now!
Why you should wear clothing made to fit YOU! (In GIF's)
Fashion & Trends
Vacation planned for the winter? Sew up these style to take away with you and also get 20% off!
We have just extended registration to accommodate a few more students
Editors' Pick
Make your Valentine's Day Extra Special, by Making your own Date Night Attire! There is still time..


text:
Line breaks: Prus|siaPronunciation: /ˈprʌʃə
Definition of Prussia in English:
A former kingdom of Germany. Originally a small country on the SE shores of the Baltic, under Frederick the Great it became a major European power covering much of modern NE Germany and Poland. After the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1 it became the centre of Bismarck's new German Empire, but following Germany's defeat in the First World War the Prussian monarchy was abolished.
- 1
adjective& noun - Example sentences
- Did you ever wonder why the U.S. Social Security Administration has a picture of this Prussian militarist up on their site?
- Are we speaking of Bismarck's vote-buying democracy for his Prussian emperor?
- In her hand, a staff with the iron cross topped by the Prussian eagle.
Definition of Prussia in:
- US English dictionary
What do you find interesting about this word or phrase?
Comments that don't adhere to our Community Guidelines may be moderated or removed.
Get more from Oxford Dictionaries
Subscribe to remove adverts and access premium resources
Most popular
Most popular in the US
Most popular in the UK
Most popular in Canada
Most popular in Australia
= trending


text:
Gain confidence in your ability to produce clean, grammatically correct documents and speeches. Learn More>>
Gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the marvelous complexity of the human body. Learn More>>
Lost for words? Don't be! Learn to build rapport, trust, warmth, and respect through conversation. Learn More>>
Gain the respect and admiration of others, exert more control over your destiny, and enjoy success in your professional and personal life. Learn More>>
Learn how to create and distribute an inspirational and professional autobiography for family, friends, and others. Learn More>>
Master twelve career-enhancing skills including goal setting, time management, personal organization, and creativity. Learn More>>
In this course on teaching preschoolers, you'll learn how to come up with creative and balanced preschool lesson plans for every month of the school year. Learn More>>
You really can make money with your writing. Whether you want to create your own business, add to your income, supplement your retirement, or boost what you're earning as a writer, you'll find the how-to's here. Learn More>>
Design a life that makes you happy by learning how you can use work to express yourself and share your interests and talents. Learn More>>
Acclaimed speed reading expert teaches you how to save yourself time by reading faster with better comprehension. Learn More>>
Complete the form below and click the Reset Password button. If we find your password, we'll send password reset instructions to the e-mail address we have on record for you.


text:
Total Time:
Prep Time:
Cook Time:
55 mins
10 mins
45 mins
CongoJim's Note:
Chicken in a peanut/tomato sauce. Generally served with rice. This version is from the DR Congo. Don't let the peanuts with tomatoes throw you off it really is very tasty. (I learned to tell guests after they compliment it what's in it.)
My Private Note
Units: US | Metric
- 1 (3 1/2 lb) whole chickens, cut up (I will skip the killing and cleaning part that we go through)
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 large fresh tomato (you can peel and seed if you wish, we eat everything here)
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 cup chunky peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons palm oil (available in Oriental markets, feel free to substitute with a healthier oil)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 hot pepper (we use pili pili, a very hot pepper native to here, most like scotch bonnet in flavor but makes habe)
- 1Simmer chicken covered in water with bouquette garnis until it's falling off the bone. Never boil meat, that makes it rubbery. Pull meat off the bone and reserve stock.
- 2Saute onion, hot pepper and garlic in oil until translucent. Add tomato.
- 3Stir in tomato paste and about 1/2 C stock.
- 4Add peanut butter.
- 5You should end up with a sauce that is similar in texture to spaghetti sauce. Add more stock if needed.
- 6Return chicken to the pan and simmer for a few minutes to infuse the flavors.
- 7Serve over rice.
- 8That's the traditional method.
- 9Now the "My in laws have shown up at the door to see little Joey, all I have is a couple of chicken breasts in the fridge and Joey is at that age where he asks adults things like "Mommy says that you are a busy body, how can I be one too?" version.
- 10To your favorite spaghetti sauce add the peanut butter and chunks of chicken breasts and crushed red pepper to taste. While that simmers, put water on to boil for minute rice and get back out and keep an eye on Joey.
Browse Our Top Stew Recipes
Nutritional Facts for Chicken Muamba
Serving Size: 1 (415 g)
Servings Per Recipe: 4
- Amount Per Serving
- % Daily Value
- Calories 861.6
- Calories from Fat 575
- 66%
- Total Fat 63.8 g
- 98%
- Saturated Fat 17.6 g
- 88%
- Cholesterol 187.1 mg
- 62%
- Sodium 1254.9 mg
- 52%
- Total Carbohydrate 20.3 g
- 6%
- Dietary Fiber 5.6 g
- 22%
- Sugars 10.4 g
- 41%
- Protein 54.4 g
- 108%
Ideas from Food.com


text:
a thematic album. sending our hearts to Japan
This photo was shot on film. Taken by jarvislomo with a Lomo Smena 8M loaded with Lomography Redscale film (available in our Online Shop) in DKI Jakarta, Indonesia. These tags describe this photo: smena, 8m, jarvis, megazord, loves, japan, rooftop, hearts, mecha, doubles, and mx. This photo can also be found in the album All Hearts.Please login to get more out of this site
You are currently not logged in, do so now to add comments, like articles as well as photos, submit to competitions, translate articles and gain access to unlimited photo upload! If you are not registered yet, go here to find out more about Lomography and join now! If you just want a limited account for now you can use Twitter or Facebook. We would love to have you as a member here!
6 people like this photo
Liking photos helps us to present the best ones to you and others. 6 people like this photo. 6 people like this photo: sondyy, scede, anpank, myasuoka, photohuggers, and vandal.


text:
The many slate roofs still seen on 19th and early 20th century houses around Rutland and Addison counties in Vermont had their origin in the many slate pits of the historic Slate Valley. A fascinating glimpse inside the multi-ethnic lives of the slate workers of Vermont and New York awaits the weekend explorer at the Slate Valley Museum in Granville, N.Y.
The Slate Valley of southwestern Vermont and eastern New York extends 24 miles along the borders of both states from Granville, N.Y .and Rupert, Vt., north to Fair Haven, Vt. The area is about six miles wide. From still comes high quality slate used in various industrial applications.
In 1839, slate deposits were discovered near Fair Haven, but quarrying was found impractical and uses for slate were limited. By the mid 1840s things began to change, and a strong future for the industry looked promising. The roof of a barn one mile south of Fair Haven was the first to be covered with slate in 1848. It was feared the barn would not withstand the weight of the stone. The barn is still standing today and the same slate roof is intact.
With the industry ready to take off, many workers were recruited.
In 1850, the first Welsh immigrants arrived in Fair Haven, and in 1852 thirty Welsh settlers arrived in Middle Granville. Several slate companies were formed. The biggest problem early on was the transportation of the quarried stone. In order to solve the problem, the Rutland and Washington Railroad, which had started in 1845, extended its lines to Poultney, Vt. and later to Salem, N.Y. and Eagle Bridge, N.Y. This move allowed the industry to continue to grow.
Immigration of workers to the Slate Valley increased with three hundred recruited from Wales in 1891 when the industry began to boom. And immigrants continued to come to the area through the 1890s and early 1900s from Poland, Austria, Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia, Italy, Ireland, Hungary and later Canada. Many were already skilled quarrymen as the Welsh had been when they first arrived in this country. Many were skilled in other types of mining as well.
(Continued on Next Page)
Prev Next
More like this story
Use the comment form below to begin a discussion about this content.


text:
Audi Spoilers
The Audi brand is best known for delivering a superb luxurious touch to match the performance capability its models are famous for. It's not just one piece of the heritage either, as on down the line, Audi models are famous fashion-pieces. While they can be dressed up in numerous ways, Audi Spoilers have started to become the preferred method for aftermarket modifications. It's not hard to see why. An Audi Spoiler doesn't just compliment the exterior design, but the attitude of the entire vehicle! That is a powerful concept. And an important one. Your car has a personality all of its own. Fixing it up with the right custom additions can be costly both in time and in money. You have to go with what works. That's where spoilers come into play. They just fit.
CARiD.com is here to help you choose an Audi Spoiler that does the job right. Rear spoilers, custom spoilers, lit, non-lit, painted or un-painted – the choice is yours. Featuring names like JSP, California Dream, and Elite Spoilers, you know we're talking about premium quality from the most respected names in the biz. We'll also give you the best prices around to make you feel even more comfortable. Don't hesitate. Catch a glimpse at your ride's next profile upgrade today!
- Pure®Custom Style Rear Lip Spoilerfrom $133.60
- D2S®Custom Style Rear Roofline Spoilerfrom $182.03
- Remin®Custom Style Rear Spoiler with Lightfrom $108.55
- JKS®Factory Style Flush Mount Rear Spoilerfrom $120.21
- VIS Racing®M Tech Style Roofline Spoilerfrom $371.57
- Duraflex®CR-C Style Roof Wing Spoilerfrom $159.00
- SEIBON®Rear Spoilerfrom $306.00
- Onki®83" American Runner Running Boardsfrom $424.38
| Posted by Radell | (Woodland, CA)
It was nice and the new paint really match my car. The only thing is that the double sided tape wont hold because the trunk curves a little bit, so i have to take it a autobody shop to install it, so they drill a whole in my trunk and screwed it, its in there perfect and tight, cost me $80. $160 spoiler+ $80 installation=$240 total.
- Popular Spoilers Part Numbers
- Remin® 162L - Custom Style Rear Spoiler with Light (Painted)
- Remin® 14L - Custom Style Rear Spoiler with Light (Painted)
- D2S® AB8-L4 - ABT Style Rear Lip Spoiler (Painted)
- D2S® A4E-L1 - M3 Style Rear Lip Spoiler (Painted)
- D2S® A4E-L2 - Euro Style Rear Lip Spoiler (Unpainted)
- D2S® A5-L1 - Euro Style Rear Lip Spoiler (Painted)
- D2S® A4H-L1 - ABT Style Rear Lip Spoiler (Painted)
- Carbon Creations® 109054 - CR-C Style Carbon Fiber Roof Window Wing Spoiler
- Carbon Creations® 109056 - CR-C Style Carbon Fiber Wing Trunk Lid Spoiler
- T5i® WT-ABS214A-UNPAINTED - Factory Style Rear Lip Spoiler (Unpainted)


text:
Quiz! How Well Do You Know The Lyrics To Blink 182's Biggest Songs?
Test your skills!
Juno Award News: Magic! Leads In Nominations And Justin Bieber Gets Shutout
See the full list of nominees!
Go Behind The Scenes On Charli XCX And Rita Ora's Amazing David LaChapelle-Inspired Video
See how they did it!
Video Premiere: Dream Of Summer With Lights In 'Running With The Boys'
We miss summer
December 2nd, 2012
Whether you're Ready or Not, we got Bridgit Mendler getting ready for you and everyone else to perform at The Big Jingle that's going down today at 4:30E at the Air Canada Centre in the heart of Toronto. Are you coming? Tweet us @MuchMusic and tell us! Bridgit will be sharing the stage with other breakout stars like Sky Blu, Carly Rae Jepsen, Shawn Desman, and many more!
And if you don't have tickets to the biggest holiday music event of the year you can watch The Big Jingle LIVE online right here at MuchMusic.com today starting at 4:30E/1:30P!
Tags: Bridgit Mendler, The Big Jingle, the big jingle photos
Posted on Sunday, December 2nd, 2012 at 1:45 pm by Aimee and is filed under Blog, Celeb Life, Concerts & Events, Music, News, The Big Jingle.


text:
Halloween is almost upon us, and if you've been following our Tumblr, you know I'm pretty excited about that. Among the things I love about Halloween are candy, costumes, pumpkins, cute black cats, and creepy reading. Now generally speaking, I don't like being scared. I avoid horror movies like the plague. I even avoid trailers for horror movies. But this time of year, I can usually deal with it a little and subject myself to a creepy read or two. There's something compelling and engrossing about scary books, and this is the perfect time of year to cozy up with a pumpkin flavored something or a few handfuls of candy corn, and get a good case of the shivers. Here's a few books you might check out to give yourself a scare!
Dracula by Bram Stoker – Just because it's a classic doesn't mean there isn't a lot of spooky goodness in Dracula. From the early pages carefully describing the creepy atmosphere in Transylvania, to the horrifying description of Dracula himself (spoiler: vampires were not always attractive; Dracula has blood red eyes and hairy palms, among other things,) to the gore of finally killing a vampire, Dracula has plenty spine-chilling scenes to go with its well-deserved literary classic status. Bonus points for being able to tell people you're reading a classic while you enjoy the horror monster goodness.
In the Shadow of Blackbirds by Cat Winters – One of last year's Morris award (for best YA debut author) finalists, In the Shadow of Blackbirds was creepy enough that if it hadn't been up for an award, I might not have read it. Lucky for me it was a Morris nominee! In the Shadow of Blackbirds was an engaging and exciting read, and although it definitely scared me, the creepiness is part of what made it so good. In the Shadow of Blackbirds is historical fiction with a strong paranormal element. Spiritualist photographers, ghosts, and a terrifying plague all come together to create a frightening, almost-real world, enhanced by real life black and white photos from around the fall of 1918 when the book is set.
Coraline by Neil Gaiman – Yes, Coraline is aimed at kids, but that didn't stop it from scaring the pants off me the first time I read it. I cannot overstate how eerie the other house and other mother and other world presented in Coraline are. The fear of everything we know and love somehow becoming wrong is something I think anyone can understand and sympathize with, and Coraline plays on those fears. And some images from Coraline I will never forget – buttons will never be the same for me, and sometimes I'm still kept awake at night by the thought of a sinister hand stalking me.
Scowler by Daniel Kraus – Main character Ry's father has been in prison for the last eight years, but in Scowler, Ry is faced with the possibility of a monster returning – or being created. I'll admit: this one I haven't read, because I'm just too darned scared of how terrifying it will be. The audio version won an award, because apparently the narration intensifies the already intensely scary text. Reading about the audio version was when I decided that I just couldn't do this book. But if you find real-world monsters to be scarier than made up ones, and psychological thrillers to be creepier than vampire attacks, then Scowler just might be the perfect frightening read for you this Halloween.


text:
Jabee - Someway Somehow
Artist: Jabee
Featuring: Drique London
Producer: Majestic
Album: Robert Johnson EP
Avg Rating: 3.2 ( 6 votes )
Each a Booth-approved artist in his own right, Oklahoma City emcee Jabee and Raleigh, N.C. representer come together to make their debut as a twosome on Someway Somehow, the inaugural leak off their forthcoming collaborative EP. Here, Majestic's lush soul samples set a dreamy mood as the emcees express their faith that they'll eventually achieve the success they've dreamed of for so long. For more, check out Jabee and London's Robert Johnson EP when it drops February 10, via 2DopeBoyz and Grpfly.
Written by richard on 12/6/11
Submit your Rating
Caraway 1965
First DJ Booth Appearance:
"A Blessing" (2009)
You Might Like...
blog comments powered by DisqusTRENDING NOW
- Fast Food Music: How Our Hunger for More is Killing Hip-Hop
- Rihanna & Kanye's "FourFiveSeconds" is a Blue Collar Anthem
- What If Drake Didn't Sign To Young Money?
- Digging Up Your Favorite Rapper's Hidden Internet Gems
- The Liberation of Lupe Fiasco on "Tetsuo & Youth"
- No Money, No Family: Iggy Azalea's Insane Coming to America Story
- A Very Serious Lyrical Analysis of Lil Wayne's "Sorry 4 The Wait 2"
- 2014 Best of the Booth Award Winners (The Complete List)
- Who Was the Worst Rapper of 2014?
- Your Favorite Indie Rapper is Secretly Signed to a Major Label


text:
PMI Intros 30 MHz to 18 GHz Broadband Low Noise AmplifierFebruary, 2013 Press ReleasePMI Amplifier Model PEC-38-30M18G-12-SFF is a broadband, low noise amplifier that operates over the 30 MHz to 18 GHz frequency range. This model provides 38 dB of gain and has a gain flatness of ±2.0 dB maximum. The noise figure is 5dB maximum and the OP1dB is +12 dBm minimum. This amplifier maintains a maximum VSWR of 2.2:1 into a 50 ohm impedance. The operating voltage is +12 VDC and the current is 300 mA maximum. The package measures 1.92" x 0.78" x 0.26". http://www.pmi-rf.com/Products/amplifiers/PEC-38-30M18G-12-SFF.htm Product Feature Test Report About Planar Monolithics Industries Planar Monolithics provides its unique products for applications in space, military, communications, telecommunications, commercial, and consumer electronics systems. Planar Monolithics Industries, Inc. has been set up to manufacture and market various MIC/MMIC (Microwave Integrated Circuits and Monolithics Microwave Integrated Circuits) Components, Supercomponents, and Subsystems for applications in Telecommunications, Terrestrial, Satellite, and Mobile-Radio Communications, Defense (ECM, ECCM, ESM, Radars, and Electronic Warfare), Cable-TV, Navigation and Marine Electronics, FAA/DOT-Avionics, Ground Based Systems, and Microwave Landing Systems. Contact Planar Monolithics Industries Inc. 7311-F Grove Road Frederick, Maryland 21704, USA Phone: (301) 662-5019 FAX: (301) 662-1731 E-MAIL: firstname.lastname@example.com Posted 5/14/2013
Custom Search
More than 10,000 searchable pages indexed. Your RF Cafe
single-handedly redefining what an engineering website should be. |


text:
Fantastic boutique hotel in a perfectly quiet upscale neighborhood. Found in Tripadvisor, as usual... Stayed twice in different rooms, I would strongly suggest you ask for the rooms in the upper floor, since they are much quieter. There are many AC units outside the windows of the left wing that can be a little bit annoying. Other than that, it´s a great place, very reasonably priced, perfect location, breakfast included. Would definitely stay again...
- Official Description (provided by the hotel):
- Newly renovated in March 2010, our small, stylish boutique hotel provides guests with a sophisticated yet personal experience along with convenient access to South Beach hot spots, dining, shopping, nightlife and beaches. ... more less
- Reservation Options:
- TripAdvisor is proud to partner with Priceline, Venere, Expedia, Booking.com, HotelTravel.com, Despegar.com, Hotels.com, Odigeo, TripOnline SA and Tingo so you can book your Daddy O Hotel reservations with confidence. We help millions of travelers each month to find the perfect hotel for both vacation and business trips, always with the best discounts and special offers.


text:
July 1, 2004
ShelterSpeak: Coping with Outdated Facilities
Members of The HSUS's National Companion Animals Advisory Group discuss the parts of their facilities that most need improvement.
May 1, 2004
What's Happening: Animal Cruelty
HSUS New England Regional Director Joanne Bourbeau talks about the goals and accomplishments of the Vermont Animal Cruelty Task Force.
January 1, 2004
One Animal, One Person, One Situation at a Time
One volunteer is changing the lives of pets and their owners, one situation at a time.
January 1, 2004
Going Barking Mad?
Kennel noise is a stressor for animals and staff, but it can be reduced through good acoustic design.
November 1, 2003
Some Day, There Will Be No " " Marks
An adoption counselor and relative newcomer to the field finds inspiration in a meeting of the Denver Metro Area Shelter Alliance, a coalition of local animal protection organizations working to mend the rifts that often exist between agencies that take different approaches toward a common goal.
July 1, 2003
The Language of Cooperation
To start on the path toward reducing euthanasia, members of the Metro Denver Shelter Alliance first had to learn how to talk to each other.
July 1, 2003
Living with Kudzu
A unique look at how your agency's critics may actually be able to help your organization and the animals it serves.
January 1, 2002
Different Means to the Same End
An animal activist and writer in Florida tells of her rewarding experiences with veterinarians, who have assisted local animal protection organizations with public education sessions and medical care and advice.
November 1, 2001
Sweating the Small Stuff
At the Quincy Humane Society in Quincy, Illinois, the little things add up to big changes.
September 1, 2001
How to Set Up a Visiting Room
A friendly, welcoming visiting room can help man and critter find out if they're right for each other before rushing into a lifetime commitment; it's also a great chance to do some humane educating.


text:
Skip to Content
'Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs 2' Gets 'New' Music From Paul!
Paul's Tribute To Friend Rose Martin
Paul Remembers Sir David Frost
What's New With 'New'
iHeartRadio Music Festival Ticket Competition – And The Winner Is…
'New' Teaser Video!
'You Gave Me The Answer' - Valeria in Australia asks…
August Newsletter: 'What's That You're Doing? (No.8/Vol.1)'
Paul Has Joined Instagram!
What's New with Paul McCartney?
Win Tickets To See Paul at iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas!
Paul Gets #OutThere in San Francisco
From the Archives: 'Liverpool Sound Collage' Released
'Linda McCartney - Life in Photographs' : French and German Language Versions / Podcast Available / On iBookstore
Watch The #OutThere Verona Gig (In Under One Minute!)
Image of the Day: Paul Getting #OutThere in Seattle
Image of the Day: Paul #OutThere in Winnipeg
New Collection: 'Out There' in North America
Image of the Day - Paul in New York, June 2013
Image of the Day - Paul in Milwaukee, July 2013
Please note: if you are not on a wifi connection, your provider may charge for data use.


text:
Star Tracks
Paisley works the crowd during a concert in Mountain View, Calif. Plus: Sandra Bullock & Louis, Rihanna, Taylor Swift, Matt Bomer and more
More from PEOPLE
Latest News!
- Do Bobbi Kristina's Social Media Accounts Hold Clues About What Happened?
- The Style Top 5: Sarah Jessica Parker Brings Her Shoe Line to Zappos, Katy Perry Preps for the Super Bowl and More
- Meet the Woman Who Sewed Footballs for the Super Bowl for Nearly 50 Years
- Living Out Loud! Broadway Legend Joel Grey
- SpongeBob Watches … Breaking Bad?


text:
WARNING: Any unlawful reproduction, distribution, or advertisement of copyright or trademark protected materials including HESI and ATI exams or test banks on this website violates of the Copyright Act, Title 17 United States Code and/or the federal Trademark Act, Title 15, United States Code, among other laws. Violations of such laws may subject you to severe sanctions, including but not limited to, civil damages, attorney fees, imprisonment, and/or substantial fines. Please think before you post.
Nursing Forum
Forums and message boards for Nursing
Topix Talk
Let's hear your thoughts on trending Topix wide conversations.
Who do you side with in Ferguson?
25 Celebs Who Straighten Their Curly Hair
Your Thoughts on the Midterm Elections
Keep Me Updated!
Sign up to receive new Topix forum notifications.
Updated: Sat Jan 24, 2015 12:16 pm
Copyright © 2015 Topix LLC


text:
At Open Space we are a family-run grass fed beef company, not some big corporation or factory farm. Like most family farms we consider our customers our neighbors and friends. We started this company to bring what we think is a great tasting, healthy product to the rest of the world. We think responsible stewardship for the earth and the animals under our care is our responsibility but more than that we love the taste of Open Space Grass Fed Beef. That�?¢ï¿½?�?s why we don�?¢ï¿½?�?t use steroid implants, needlessly feed antibiotics to our cattle or push our cattle production faster than nature intended. You can tell in our motto�?¢ï¿½?�?¦�?¢ï¿½?�?By nature�?¢ï¿½?�?¦With nature�?¢ï¿½?�?¦The way nature intended.�?¢ï¿½?�?
Grass Fed Beef
Our online store is available 24-7 7 days a week. We ship orders all over CA, and the major metro areas of NV and AZ every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday
We also sell boxed beef to restaurants, grocery stores and food distributors all over CA and portions of NV and AZ
Latest Reviews
Wanted to give them 5 stars in addition to my reply to the previous reviewer.
See All Reviews
We have been buying Open Space Meats beef on/off for a few years with 70% luck, that is, 30% of the meats were in various stages of spoiling. Not sure if this is the retail market's fault where we were shopping, or Open Space's fault.... [more]


text:
Years ago, I received some information on Elias Like, Jr. (b. 1853, IN), son of Elias Like (b. 1821, IN). I cannot find him on the 1860, 1870, or 1880 censuses. There is an Elias Like, son of Jacob Like and Sarah Goldman. Anyone have any information of Elias Like, Jr??? Thanks Ron Notify Administrator about this message?
Home | Help | About Us | Site Index | Jobs | PRIVACY | Affiliate |
© 2007 The Generations Network |


text:
The Enchanted Cave 2
Delve into a strange cave with a seemingly endless supply of treasure, strategically choos
4.31 / 5.00 29,224 ViewsGhostbusters B.I.P.
COMPLETE edition of the interactive "choose next panel" comic
4.03 / 5.00 8,474 ViewsThe year is 3050. The male population has decreased dramatically as a result of long, bloody, intergalactic wars. Now all men are property of the United Galactic Federation and are used only for reproduction purposes. In special cryogenic capsules, male individuals are shipped to different parts of the universe for the settlement of new planets. Our hero Chuck is one of those guys. After awaking from hypersleep he decided that time of sexual revolution has came!
In my opinion, having gone through all that with all the girls, if I were he would not release the other guys just ask permission of the captain not to me again in a cryogenic capsule, and let me help them (as had made with plasma engines, the potatoes, meteors and the video game) but also to fuck they.
While I see why he would be pissed about that type of life, but plot twist, all the freed guys die...again, all of the crew gets pregnant, and only have all females. Then what?
i think the only reason they are so willing is cuz they never have seen a man before or had a man in bed with them


text:
29 | 30 | 31 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 |
19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 |
26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | 1 |
11. 07. 14. - 15:00
Chinese police have arrested 11 boys aged between nine and 13 after they decided to beat an eight-year-old classmate to death because they were bored.
According to police the body of eight-year-old Zhang Tai had been found lying beside the road just outside a village near the city of Zhangjiakou in north-western China's Hebei province.
Although he was taken to hospital he was later declared dead from massive head injuries. His entire body was also covered with bruises.
Police on the scene quickly established that the child had been seen together with a bunch of other children from the area. After they were questioned they admitted that they had beaten the eight-year-old after deciding they were bored and looking for something interesting to do.
Police spokesman Cong Lu said: "The idea seems to have been suggested by a boy called Dong Dong, the son of the local greengrocer. We are interviewing all of the boys now to try to find out the extent to which each was involved."
The dead boy's father Zhang Han, 42, who works as a bricklayer said: "I have to go to the local town to work so my son is being raised here by my grandfather, and without parents he was often the victim of local bullies. He told me that the pocket money I gave him was often stolen by local boys and he didn't like going to school because he was picked on. But I never realised things had got this bad."
The dead boy's grandfather Zhang Kuo, 67, said he had left the child playing in the yard but when he went out to see him later there was no sign of the child. Another boy had told him that Tai had agreed to go with the boys, saying that the child had added: "They promised not to beat him any more if he agreed to go with them."
Kuo added: "I was instantly worried because I know that Dong Dong is a bully. My grandson told me that he had to call the boy "Big Brother" and that whenever he wanted someone to follow him he would either threaten them, or if he couldn't threaten them would provide them with food from his father's shop. He didn't like my grandson because he had refused to hand over his pocket money and later complained to Dong Dong's mother."
Although reporters were on the scene many of the school kids told them that the headmaster had warned them they would be locked up if they spoke to the media. The dead boy's father and grandfather have said they will be suing both the school for failing to stop the bullying and the parents of those involved in the attack on their son.
Dad Zhang Han said: "When my wife left me and our son two years ago it was hard to find the strength to go on, but knowing that Tai was healthy and well helped me keep going. He was everything to me, and now he's gone I don't know what I'm going to do. I feel like my life has come to an end, I miss him so much."
Austrian Times
First Images Of Eurovision Stage
These are the first images of the design for the Eurovision Song Contest stage unveiled in the Austrian capital Vienna which is the home of last year's winner Conchita Wurst.
Russian Mafia Boss Nabbed At Vienna Railway Station
A Russian mobster wanted for a string of brutal murders was arrested in the gentile Austrian capital Vienna when commandos swooped as he went to buy a train ticket.
Teen Girls Arrested After Offering Themselves To IS Fighters
Austrian officials who recently cracked down on terrorism by arresting several people believed to be recruiting and fundraising for ISIS have revealed two more teenage girls tried to leave the country to marry terrorist fighters.
Ebola's deadly reach impacts Vienna student
Austria has yet to record its first case of Ebola, but the feared virus has already had a severe impact on the lives of Africans living in Vienna.
Grigorij Sokolov Works His Magic At Vienna Konzerthaus
Whilst the world-famous Wizard of Oz played at the Volksoper, there was another Wizard in the Konzerthaus giving his 16th performance in Vienna!
Penelope Cruz To Play The Ice Cream Killer
The memoirs of the woman dubbed the Ice Cream Killer after she shot dead two ex-lovers before hacking the bodies up with a chainsaw and telling neighbours the noise was a new ice cream machine are due to be turned into a blockbuster with Penelope Cruz playing the lead role.
Kid Left In Coma After Beaten By Teacher For Talking
This is the shocking image of a little Chinese girl before and after she was punished by her teacher - for talking in class.
Freezing Rain Causes Chaos In Central Europe
Freezing weather has arrived in Europe with a vengeance with a layer of ice blanketing parts of Austria, Germany and the Czech Republic and causing traffic chaos.
Holey Smoke As Car Disappears Down Sinkhole
Motorist Wei Hsiao found himself in a hole lot of trouble in China when a giant sinkhole opened up on the road beneath him, swallowing his entire car.
Shock Moment Police Helicopter Explodes On Street
This is the moment a police helicopter exploded into a spinning ball of flame in Chile when a fire truck clipped one of its rotors.
The most popular stories –
last 7 days
Don't moan alone, the Ombudsman Investigates.
Why suffer in silence. Let off steam by letting our readers share your troubles. File your complaints about anything and everything here.
Our ombudsman David Rogers will try and help solve some of the problems from lazy civil servants through to incompetent companies – and at the very least the worst transgressors will end up in our weekly special report.


text:
Connelly Prophecy Waterski Glove
Key Features
Full palm and finger stitched Kevlar aramid fiber
Ergonomic flex zones and shaped palm
Pre-curved fingers with raised silicone tips
Full neoprene back with Velcro closure
Neoprene moto-styled finger protection
You May Also Like
back to top- GET MORE INFO
- details
- |
- accessories
- |
- reviews
- |
back to topProduct Description
You'll love the fit, grip, and durability of the Prophecy Waterski Glove. Kevlar aramid fiber is stitched into the full palm and fingers for strength and protection. Ergonomic flex zones, pre-curved fingers, shaped palm, and a full neoprene back with Velcro closure provide unrestricted movement and comfort. Molded neoprene moto-styled finger protection with raised silicone finger tip texture for extra handle torque.


text:
Costello Tagliapietra Spring 2014 Hair and Makeup | Runway
The Runway Nail Look You Can Shop Now From Costello Tagliapietra
Nail polish made a comeback on the runway at Costello Tagliapietra, and the look had some serious ties to the collection itself. "We were inspired by the leather on some of the shoes in the collection," lead nail artist Michelle Saunders for Essie said. "The color is so great, and we matched it almost exactly." The heightened navy hue was actually created using three of Essie's polishes: a coat of Midnight Cami ($8) followed by a layer of Mademoiselle ($8), which was topped off with Matte About You ($10) for the leather texture.
For the hair, Nelson Vercher of ArtMix Beauty for Rita Hazan Salons used René Furterer products to create an inverted plait that was all about playing with the models' natural cowlicks. The makeup pulled from the mint greens and lavenders in the collection. Bright pastel hues were made more elegant with some mascara for definition and loads of gloss on the lips — a nice departure from the matte hues of seasons past. See the complete runway look on POPSUGAR Fashion.
MAC Cosmetics
Fashion Week
Costello Tagliapietra
- Get sweet, flirty lashes with . . . cookies? — SheFinds
- The risks you need to know before getting cortisone injections — Byrdie
- Tips and tricks to conceal a large forehead — Daily Makeover
- Gigi Hadid has always wanted to be the face of Maybelline — InStyle
- Why base tans won't protect you from sunburn — xoVain
- Caffeine addicts will love these coffee- and tea-scented fragrances — The Gloss
- What to expect before your first facial — Teen Vogue
- An inside look at the pressure Miss Universe contestants face — Elle