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On a cold and miserably grey day, so at least once a day if you live in Melbourne, there is almost nothing more comforting than switching on the oven and baking something yummy!
Busy Kitchen Mum
Food brings people together. So as I cook these recipes to bring together the people I love, I'm hoping that it does the same for you
Sunday, 4 May 2014
Peanut Butter Brownies
On a cold and miserably grey day, so at least once a day if you live in Melbourne, there is almost nothing more comforting than switching on the oven and baking something yummy!
Friday, 25 April 2014
Quick and Easy Mushroom Pasta
As I have mentioned before my partner likes to refer to himself as a "refined" eater. He knows what he likes and that's what he eats.
Between us...some might call that fussy.
Now this has left me in a conundrum.
As a food blogger I love to experiment and try new recipes and as a person I LOVE food. All different sorts of dishes from all different sorts of places. I'm the kind of gal who will try anything.
(My horrible brother used this knowledge to his advantage once and convinced me to share a plate of chicken feet!)
Living with a "refined" eater and a four year old who is becoming increasingly firm on what he will and will not eat, makes meal planning difficult.
I'm constantly having to consider what they both enjoy. I found myself stuck in a rut, cooking the same 5 meals every week.
So one night when Mr was running late home I put my thinking cap on and decided to create something new. When Mr isn't home is the best time to do this so he isn't probing around the kitchen and I can sneak some new ingredients in.
And so this delicious creamy mushroom and bacon pasta was born. Full of the things Mr loves and he has so proclaimed that it is his favourite pasta dish that I cook.
Packet of dried fettuccine or tagliatelle
2 rashers of middle bacon - diced
70gm butter
200gm button mushrooms - sliced
200gm Swiss brown mushrooms - sliced
1 clove of garlic - crushed
1 tsp dried Italian herbs
Zest of quarter of a lemon
1 tbl spoon plain flour
1/3 cup white wine
1 cup chicken stock
1 tub Philly cream for cooking
Handful of fresh spinach
4 slices prosciutto
1. Place a large pot of water over high heat. Sprinkle with salt. Once at a rapid boil, add the pasta. Stir. Cook until just tender. Drain.
2. Meanwhile; Place a frying pan over high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Fry the bacon until crispy. Set aside to drain on some paper towel.
3. Lower the heat to medium-low and add the butter. Once it's bubbling and frothy, add all of the mushrooms. Stirring to ensure they get well coated. Cook for 2 minutes.
Add the garlic, herbs and lemon zest. Stir.
Sprinkle over the flour, stirring. Leave to cook for one minute.
Pour in the wine, again stirring, until evaporated and you have a sort of pasty texture. Like a roux.
Slowly add the chicken stock until you have a nice sauce like consistency. You may need a little more than a cup, depending on how thick you like your sauce. Add in the bacon.
Cover and simmer over a low heat.
4. Place another frying pan over high heat. Add a table spoon of oil. Quickly pan fry the prosciutto until crispy.
Set aside on paper towel to drain.
Meanwhile, spoon the philly cream for cooking into the sauce and stir until well combined. Add the spinach, stir until wilted.
5. Serve the pasta into bowls, spoon over the mushroom sauce. Use your fingers to crumble the prosciutto over the top. Serve.
I sometimes do little variations to this dish depending on what I have.
Sometimes I add some pesto or crumbled feta. Seeded mustard would also work well.
Thursday, 10 April 2014
Good44 & Storm in a Teacup Review plus a Special Offer!
When it comes to shopping there are two things I love:
Unfortunately my local area doesn't have a great market and with as hectic as life can get often I end up kicking myself on a Sunday evening because 'it's the first/second/third Sunday of the month and I missed THAT market!'
Good44 is an online market place allowing amazing local businesses and producers to create an online shop front so you can browse and shop at your own convenience in the comfort of your own home (or lunch break at the office!)
Because we all know you can't have cheese without wine.
Good44 are also good sports, they offer a price match guarantee. If you find an item elsewhere that's cheaper, at Good44 they will price match it if you let them know within 2 weeks!
1. Buying local products from local businesses
Unfortunately my local area doesn't have a great market and with as hectic as life can get often I end up kicking myself on a Sunday evening because 'it's the first/second/third Sunday of the month and I missed THAT market!'
Not to mention as much as I LOVE markets my partner LOVES to avoid them at all costs.
It's also getting increasingly difficult to even support your local businesses in this day and age with all the fast food chains and supermarket giants popping up all over the place. Dominating the consumer market place with low prices and special offers.
I always prefer to head to my local deli or butcher. The service is often friendlier and the products of better quality. With many struggling to survive, as quickly as I've found one they disappear.
Surely there has to be a way to support local producers, somewhere to buy my favorite specialty products AND something convenient enough that I don't have to remember market dates, or worry about parking and crowds.
Good44 is an online market place allowing amazing local businesses and producers to create an online shop front so you can browse and shop at your own convenience in the comfort of your own home (or lunch break at the office!)
They even offer a super helpful recurring order function so you can choose what you want and how often you want it and bam! no more hassle of remembering a market date again!
Good44 have everything you could possibly dream of. From artisan chocolate and fudge (you know it's good when it's given a fancy name like artisan) to breads, spices, cheeses and even wine.
They even have beauty products, you know, for when you need to look your best after drinking too much wine. Unless that's just me?
Good44 are also good sports, they offer a price match guarantee. If you find an item elsewhere that's cheaper, at Good44 they will price match it if you let them know within 2 weeks!
Plus with a loyalty program and a freebie with every purchase what more reason do you need to do your shopping at Good44?
Try as I might to find something negative about Good44, I cannot.
Anything negative would purely be superficial (sometimes their websites mobile version doesn't read well on my iPhone) but seriously, what sort of complaint is that?!?
The lovely people at Good44 approached me for a review and sent me a sample from Storm in a Teacup.
Because we all know how much I cherish a cup of good quality tea.
Based in Collingwood, Storm in a teacup have embraced the growing trend of tea drinking and have created an amazing concept that not only celebrates the humble cup of tea but also respects the countries and traditions involved in producing some of the finest quality tea in the world.
Based in Collingwood, Storm in a teacup have embraced the growing trend of tea drinking and have created an amazing concept that not only celebrates the humble cup of tea but also respects the countries and traditions involved in producing some of the finest quality tea in the world.
I received a blend called 'Red Jade #18' originating from Nantou, Taiwan.
It is some of the loveliest and unique tea I have ever had.
It might be a storm in a teacup but it is a pleasure on the taste buds. With a flowery aroma with notes of tropical fruit and camphor, you think it's going to be a nice delicate tea.
But the flavour is a lovely surprise. It has a delightful mix of bold flavours competing for your taste buds. Caramel and hints of bourbon really shine through.
The funky packaging even comes complete with a lovely blurb on when and where the blend originated, a breakdown of the aromas and flavours plus a handy guide on how to brew.
Storm in a Teacup has definitely found many little unique ways to create their own storm in the popular tea market.
Now to further prove how fantastic they are, Good44 are offering the first 50* Busy Kitchen Mum readers a massive 20% off their first order when you use the code
'Busykitchenmum' upon checkout.
So what are you waiting for?
Hurry up and head on over to Good44.com and score yourself some amazing local products and maybe even have a bit of a Storm in a Teacup yourself.
*Limit of one per customer.
Discount available on any product from Good44.com
Saturday, 29 March 2014
Apple Crumble Bar
My mum will be the first to tell you that growing up, I wasn't a big fan of fruit.
I definitely wasn't one to just grab a piece from the fruit bowl and chow down.
If it wasn't already peeled and chopped up, ready to eat, then I wasn't interested.
But, apples were and still are one of my favourites.
Though even then I'm still picky. I will only eat Granny Smith apples. I love that they are crispy, crunchy and have a nice sour taste to them.
But after 3 years of not being able to just eat an apple at will (I had braces ....twice) even my love for the good old Granny Smith began to wane.
However never one to rule out fruit completely I will devour fruit filled desserts. Crumbles, Danishes, cobblers, pastries...let's face it, I pretty much just love fruit covered in butter, sugar and flour.
So when my son came home from care one day with a bag full of apples that they had picked themselves at a local apple farm the only solution was to bake them into something edible.
My mum used to wrap apple slices in pastry with some jam and bake them. Super yum but a tad on the easy side for what I wanted.
Next stop apple crumble. My absolute favourite.
But palming off leftover apple crumble seemed strenuous.
It needed to be something portable to feed the work troops.
Apple crumble bar was the answer!
Of course I can't bake something and not taste test straight away so a trip to my mums for afternoon tea was on the agenda. We all agree that apple crumble bar is delicious!
115gms butter, melted
1 cup caster sugar
1 egg
2 large apples, peeled, cored and diced
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1 cup plain flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp cinnamon
Crumble topping:
1/3 cup caster sugar
1/3 cup brown sugar
3 tbl spoons plain flour
1/4 tsp cinnamon
50gms butter, melted
1. Pre heat oven to 180. Grease and line a square cake tin.
Place the butter and caster sugar in a large bowl and whisk until well combined.
Add the egg and whisk vigoursly until the mixture becomes pale in colour.
Fold through the diced apples and walnuts.
2. Using a large spatula gently fold through the flour, baking powder and cinnamon until just combined. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan.
Spread out evenly with the spatula.
3. To make the crumble topping; combine the caster sugar and brown sugar in a small bowl. Add the flour and cinnamon, stir well. Pour in the melted butter and mix. The mixture should resemble wet sand.
Sprinkle evenly over the apple cake batter.
Bake in the oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden and cake is cooked through.
4. Remove from the oven and set aside for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completly.
Although I think this is best served warm with some natural Greek yoghurt.
Saturday, 22 March 2014
Coconut Macaroons
Coconut macaroons are almost my favourite!
So deliciously soft and chewy on the inside with just the perfect amout of toasted coconut crust on the outside.
Incredibly moreish, it is nearly impossible to stop at just one.
One of the girls I work with even attempted to eat half a one and save the rest for later. It didn't happen. Epic fail!
Coconut macaroons are also ridiculously quick and easy to make that I am almost ashamed that I have never made them before now.
I promise you even the most novice of bakers can feel complete accomplishment with this recipe.
How many it makes depends on the size you make them. I measured mine out with a tablespoon and made about 16. But....I can't believe I'm saying this...they probably could have been a little smaller.
3 egg whites
150gms caster sugar
2-3 tbl spoons honey
150gms desicated coconut
1. Pre heat oven 150°C.
In a medium heavy based saucepan, over low heat, combine the egg whites, sugar, honey and coconut.
Stir for about 5 minutes until sugar has dissolved and the mixture starts to come away easily from the side of the saucepan.
Set aside to cool slightly for 15 minutes.
2. Meanwhile line 2 baking trays with baking paper.
Use a tablespoon (or teaspoon if preferred) to dollop the mixture onto the trays.
Bake for 20 minutes until just firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and cool completely on the trays. Use a metal spatula to carefully remove macaroons from the tray.
Monday, 3 February 2014
Coconut and Lime Syrup Cake
This cake, to me, is the perfect summer cake. Coconut and lime are a match made in heaven.
My sister recently held her first annual summer supper party (I'm not sure if it is an annual event but I'm hoping that by publishing that it is, she will HAVE to do it every year! hehe) anyway, a summer supper party is essentially afternoon tea but in the evening.
This was a small intimate evening with 7 lovely ladies.
I have to say my little sister really blew me away with the effort she put into the whole evening. Everything was so elegant and perfect. So proud of you schwester ❤
For this occasion BKM sista had asked me to make my Orange and Rhubarb syrup cake (I think it could be her fav now) but being mid summer rhubarb is far from in season and I would hate to make a sub standard cake with sub standard rhubarb.
With my thinking cap on I started to channel summer and the flavours I think best represent summer.
Two things came to mind: Coconut and Lime.
(Could you guess that my fav cocktail is a Piña Colada?)
Apparently my sister wasn't as convinced at this suggestion....until she tasted it.
250 grams butter, softened.
1 cup caster sugar
4 eggs, at room temperature
1 cup desiccated coconut
1 2/3 cups self raising flour
1/4 cup milk
1/3 cup natural yoghurt (plus extra to serve)
Lime syrup:
4 limes, zested and juiced
3/4 cup caster sugar
3/4 cup water
1. Pre heat oven to 170°C. Grease and line a 22cm round cake tin.
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the butter, sugar and 1 tsp of the lime zest until light and creamy.
Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is incorporated before adding the next.
2. Using a silicone spatula or a large metal spoon, gently fold through half the flour, coconut, milk and yoghurt until just combined. Repeat with the remaing flour, cocnut, milk and yoghurt. Pour the cake batter into the prepared cake tin.
Place in the oven and bake for 40-45 mins or until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean.
3. Meanwhile to make the lime syrup; place the remaining lime zest, juice, sugar and water in a small heavy based saucepan. Stir over a medium heat until the sugar has dissolved. Bring to the boil, reduce heat and simmer for 5 mins. The mixture should thicken slightly and go syrupy.
4. Once cooked, remove the cake from the oven and let it sit in the tin for 5 mins before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Poke holes all over the cake using a skewer then slowly drizzle the warm lime syrup over the entire cake.
5. Slice and serve with extra natural yoghurt.
Friday, 17 January 2014
Mexican Fiesta; Fish tacos, red cabbage pickle and fresh salsa
The first time I ever heard about fish tacos, I have to admit, I was not overly enthused. What the heck is fish doing in a taco?!?
Fish has no place in a taco!
Or so I thought.
And I owe it all to a hilarious movie by the name of 'I love you man'.
If you've seen it then you know the scene I'm talking about.
The guys are on a 'man date' and Syd persuades Peter to stay a bit longer and try the best fish tacos in the world.
This made me realise two things:
Firstly, Jason Segel could probably talk me into anything.
And secondly, perhaps I had judged fish tacos a little too harshly.
I am forever scolding people for turning up their nose at food.
"Don't knock it till you try it" is probably one of my most common used phrases.
Practice what you preach I hear you shout.
So recently I had decided to host a girls dinner while Mr BKM was away for work. This particular week, Melbourne was going through a heat wave with 40 plus degree days so I didn't need much convincing when my mum suggested I make fish tacos.
Having never eaten a fish taco, let alone made one, I wasn't sure what to expect or how to execute this. With a little bit of research (seriously, I typed fish taco into google and looked at one recipe!) I took the fish taco head on.
And my guests would probably agree; I won!!
Makes 12 tacos
Red cabbage pickle:
1/4 head of red cabbage
2 tbl spoons vinegar
1 tbl spoon white sugar
Fish Tacos:
12 soft tacos
2 fillets of Ling (approx 600grams)
1 lime, zested and juiced
1/2 bunch of fresh coriander, roughly chopped
1 sachet Mexican seasoning
1 red onion, finely diced
Mexican Salsa:
1 can kidney beans
1 can of corn kernels
1/2 red onion, finely diced
1/2 punnet cherry tomatoes, halved
Coriander stalks, thinly sliced
Remaining coriander leaves
Juice of one lime
1. Place the red cabbage in a glass bowl. Sprinkle over the vinegar and white sugar. Using ur hands, scrunch it together until well combined. Set aside, giving it an occasional stir.
2. In a separate glass bowl, combine the fish, lime zest and juice and the Mexican seasonging. Set aside for 10 minutes to marinate.
Meanwhile make the Mexican salsa; drain the kidney beans and corn kernels. In another glass bowl, combine the beans, corn, onion, the stalk of the coriander thinly sliced, tomatoes and lime juice. Stir well to combine. Set aside.
3. Heat a frying pan over medium high heat and add some olive oil. Add the fish and cook for 1 minute. Add the onion and half of the coriander. Cook for a further 2 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Warm the tortillas, as per packet instructions.
Sprinkle the remaining coriander over the Mexican salsa.
4. Place the red cabbage pickle, Mexican salsa and fish on the table along with the tortillas and your favourite Mexican condiments. Gather everyone and enjoy your Mexican fiesta!
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Upping productivity: Is it time?
Blogger: Rachel Kent
I don't know about you, but I'm always trying to find ways to be more productive. It seems like each day flies by more quickly than the day before. I have found a few areas where productivity can be increased; maybe it's time for you to consider changes in these areas too.
1) Is it time to get a new computer? Thankfully, my four-year-old Mac is still working like a dream, but my computer before this Mac was really holding me back. It would take ages to boot up, and then it needed to run all sorts of updates and started programs throughout the day without my asking for them to open. Each time the computer would try to do something it took FOREVER. It was definitely time for an upgrade. Does your computer or technology hold you back? Is it slowing your writing day significantly? Is it time to make an investment in new equipment to increase your productivity?
2) Is it time to learn how to type? I've pondered before how, if writers like Charles Dickens and Jane Austen had computers and could type their books, we might have many more great works from them. You have a computer, and many of you probably know how to type, but if you've never taken a typing class, could it be time? Hunting and pecking, even if you've come up with a system that works for you, isn't as efficient, and you could be holding yourself back by not investing a little time in a typing class.
My typing class in high school was the most useful class I have ever taken, and it was a lot of fun, too!
3) Is it time to get an assistant/office space/babysitter?
My new house (we're in escrow!) is going to have a little office with glass french doors so I can see what is going on in the house without having to be a part of it unless I want to be. I'm SO excited about that room. When we decided to change homes, one of my criteria for the house hunt is that there would be an office space in our new house. I didn't need something quite as fancy as what I'm getting, but I wanted an out-of-the-way nook where I could focus on work. Do you need to find your own space for your writing? Might you need to dedicate a room of your house to an office, put up a room divider, or section off a place in your garage?
Some of you might be at a level in your writing that it's time to invest in an assistant to help with your email, snail mail, and day-to-day tasks. Not everyone is ready for this step, but some of you should consider bringing in help for a few hours each week.
I know that I have to have help with my daughter so I can get work done. Do you need to hire a babysitter to increase your productivity? I'm learning that I can't do it all. There's no way to be a full-time parent, wife/husband, housekeeper, writer, breadwinner, etc. without some help. Is it time for you to ask for that help?
4) Is it time to reevaluate your commitments?
In an effort to increase productivity, it might be time to look at what you do each week that drains your resources, energy and time. If you're so wiped out from your endless church commitments, choir rehearsals, sports games, board meetings, etc. that you can't even write when you have time, you might need to take a closer look at what you are committing to.
Of course you should still be a part of your church, and your children's events aren't to be skipped, but maybe you are over-committing to something. Or maybe an activity you are doing is draining to you because it's not a gift of yours. For example, I used to do baby care at church during the services. I love children, but for many reasons I dreaded the days I was scheduled for baby care. Being in charge of so many different children all at once–including some really tough cases–was draining to me. I could do it, and I did for many years, but when I finally accepted that being a baby care worker wasn't in my God-given talent pool, I felt so much better! I shifted my focus from child care to bringing meals to those who recently had a baby or who suffered a tragedy. I enjoy helping and supporting the church in this way, and I'm energized by it instead of wiped out.
I think the biggest point here is, if you over-commit and try to do everything, you won't give your best to anything. Is this something you need to think about for your life? Might you need to pull back in one area or another to help increase your productivity?
In what other ways might you increase your productivity?
Need to increase productivity? This blog might help: Click to tweet.
What can you do to increase your daily productivity? Via lit agent @rachellkent. Click to tweet.
By Rachel Kent on Nov 15, 2013 in Blog, Productivity, Writing Life | 37 Comments
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37 Comments
Your new office sounds lovely and so perfect for a mommy agent!
I am in the process of increasing my productivity with a technology upgrade of sorts. Maybe a year ago I replaced my monitor with a 25 inch flat screen TV. (I once heard an author remark that a larger screen equals more productivity.) It functions as a large monitor, but it was not as expensive as buying something made specifically for a computer. It was a wonderful investment to keep my eyes from tiring so quickly. It also allows me to look at more than one document at a time.
Ummm. Now I need more. I am finding that I could benefit from having a second screen. So, I have found that I can connect my original monitor to my system, resulting in two screens. I love it!
As for some office help, I am quickly approaching that consideration. Right now, I have several family members who fill in with various tasks. For example, having someone read a list or a passage while I am double checking a related document on my computer is valuable.
Dear Rachel: I find I cannot do everything and really don't want to. I have to keep focused on what I really want to get accomplished and just stick with that. It is a challenge to not let every day or whatever sneak in and gobble up your time. I often use an egg timer, as silly as that sounds and just set it and block out the rest of the world.
jacqueline gillam fairchld
Three suggestions –
Put up a chart that marks progress on your WIP. Seeing the word count mount up toward your first-draft target can be a great incentive to do more.
Get a digital photo frame, load it with with your favorite Scripture (in a quick-to-read format, not script superimposed on pictures), and choose a display interval setting that fits your 'scan'.
With winter coming, get a heated footrest for your desk. My wife just got one of these, and she's delighted. If your workspace is by a window, you can enjoy the open feeling and avoid the frozen-feet syndrome.
Andrew, I love your ideas. I actually create a spreadsheet and mark each day's word count. This encourages me to keep moving forward, and it also gives me an idea of word count when I am done with my fast draft. I love your Scripture idea!
I have a spreadsheet as well, and while the larger numbers can encourage, the lack of numbers for a day or two can push me to be more productive.
I agree on the word count … I had a friend say that she committed to a certain number of words daily. That really helps.
And Rachael, I have an office with glass doors … I ended up buying curtains to hang over them so I can pull them closed when I need to. Sometimes movement distracts me! The kids gravitate to where they can see you! Grin.
Sometimes I have to write with a 70-lb Pit Bull in my lap.
I understand that, Andrew! We had a 110 lb German Shepherd that thought she was a lap dog. Now, I have a cat in my lap constantly! She belongs to the girls, but she likes me. Wouldn't you know?! However, she makes me sit longer … feel badly interrupting her nap to get up. Ha! So she really helps me out.
Hey Andrew! I've had difficulty commenting on your blog (Blogger doesn't like me…), but I enjoyed your thoughts today on commercialism.)
Shelli, Shepherds are like that…they just can't believe that they grow so big!
Cynthia – thanks for your kind comments. Blogger can be a bit obtuse at times. If I were starting over I'd use WordPress.
The biggest impediment to my writing is that SOMEONE who will remain nameless needs to get a post-retirement job and get out of the house. (I don't think Ranchman the Superhero reads the B&S blog…)
Rachel this was a great post. The biggest thing I've had to do is cut back on most of my activities. I have reduced my commitments at church and my kids' school.
I set word goals for each day. I usually like to write a scene at a time, which ends up somewhere around 1500 words for me. I also set aside time most days to write. And I set a timer, especially if I have a lot to do that day. I'm always amazed at how much I can get done when I'm competing against a clock.
The other thing I did (sorry this is so long!) is I joined a Facebook group called #1K1HR, which is a group that encourages people to aim for 1,000 words in an hour. I've been shocked at how much I can get done when I'm on a time limit.
Jeanne, do you like that FB group? I was just looking at it the other day and wondering if it would help or if I would just embarrass myself if I couldn't write 1,000 words in an hour. I have before, but I can't say it's an everyday occurrence.
Sorry to respond so late, Meghan. For the record, I do like the group. A lot. There have been plenty of times someone hasn't reached that 1000 word/hour goal, and no one condemns. It's fun when I know others are writing and cheering me on, or me cheering them on. I'd recommend it.
I've been thinking a lot about this topic lately. I so want to finish my first MS, but it seems like I never have enough time in my days to do it. So, last Thursday, I chose to do an "internet fast." I work from home, so I only allowed myself online to do what I needed for that. No Facebook. No blogs. No e-mail or Google news reading. The result? I found an unexpected hour in the middle of the day to write and anther one that evening after the kids went to bed. Now, I never surf the net for two hours straight – but I learned that 10 minutes here and 15 there can add up to a lot over the course of the day. I might make that day-long "fast" a regularly-scheduled thing.
I love all these suggestions and find them so true! My productivity skyrocketed when I got my own office three years ago. We had a room that functioned as husband's computer room/sewing room/guest room. I haven't sewn since I started writing and we only get guests about twice a year! Double guest bed replaced college boy's twin in his room – guests can have his room (if he's home, he can use a sleeping bag on little brother's floor ) And I have MY OWN OFFICE!!
I also like hiring my teen children to do personal assistant work, especially around book releases – addressing envelopes and post cards, packaging bookmarks for mailing, etc. Very helpful.
The other thing that helps me most for productivity is long-term goals (broken down by month), monthly goals (posted over my computer), and weekly/daily to-do lists. This helps me meet deadlines and honor all the other commitments.
Hi Sarah! I've also thought of hiring my almost-14yo daughter to do assistant work, mostly with social media since I don't have any book releases (yet!). She needs her own computer, though, but that's coming soon. Just the other day, she drew an illustrated map of my fictional town. It's terrific and helps so much with visualization!
An illustrated map of your fictional town?! This is awesome Meghan.
I'm really looking forward to our new place for my own creative area (writing, knitting, etc.). But it won't happen for a year until the development goes forward. Until then, I will make due. My problem with getting a new computer, which should happen next year as well, is the learning curve for the software changes in the last 6 years. They'll take some getting used to. So if you're getting a new computer, make sure you take time to actually learn it!
Great comments here! Yay, on your new office space!!
I get more done in my office, so I work there as much as possible. It's only a flight of stairs away!
I agree with everyone who already posted–goals, goals, goals! Also, I spent a few minutes every morning planning my day, then when I'm finished writing or revising, I jot down what I need to do next. It kick-starts the next session. Less wasted time!
Have a terrific weekend!! (I've said no to teaching Sunday School for a few years now. I love kids, but I focus on short term teaching, like VBS.)
Congratulations, Rachel, on your new home–and new office space! (And who doesn't love french doors?!)
I'm blessed to have my own office now, but when our children were little, my "office" was my lap, the dining room table, and eventually a little work area with a converted desk. Separate work spaces DO make all the difference in our productivity.
Thanks for all of today's suggestions!
My real-job admin has self appointed herself my pro bono writing admin bc she loves to read and write so she lives vicariously through me. SCORE!
My husband has decided it's his duty to do the dinner-making since I am talented and burn frozen pizza. SCORE!
But yes, I cut back on several ministries at church and also significantly decreased my other "hobbies" — as in now I have no other hobbies That helped a LOT!
Rachel, your new office sounds perfect!
I have a 2007 MacBookAir and the display screen doesn't work anymore. So much has changed in the last six years that I think it's time for a new one. Thank goodness my husband agrees. (I know what I'm getting for Christmas this year!)
Prioritizing and productivity go hand in hand. My goal is to edit 20 pages a week, and send the revisions to my first reader as I go.
Also, certain music helps creativity bubble to the surface. Earbuds in, and U2, Coldplay, The Civil Wars, and Alison Krauss cranked up. -
I want to live my life following God's plan for me. If I clutter my day with things not from Him, then in essence, I'm not choosing Him. I used to feel guilty when I said no to a good work, but now I see it through the lens of whether or not it is something God is calling me to do. There isn't time for everything, and when I take on too many commitments, I'm in danger of substituting the "good-thing" for the "God-thing."
The trick of course is determining which is which!
"If you over-commit and try to do everything, you won't give your best to anything." – Words my husband has been trying to drill into my brain for awhile now. *sigh* I think I've gotten the message. Thank you, Rachel, for a much-needed post!
Having a morning devotional before writing has helped me tremendously. I take time, with a cup of hot tea, to focus on God before writing. This prepares me for the day…
This is so practical and so helpful. Thank you.
I'm blessed to have a beautiful office space in our new home. 3 years and it's still new to us! I couldn't believe it when my hubby said we should use it as my office, I mean I'm not even published He found an old green door and hung it on the wall for me, and I have let my love of flowers and all things pink explode in there. I definitely feel inspired in there.
What would help my productivity is a housekeeper! That would be 8+ more hours a week to write. But then, I do get some great ideas when I'm scrubbing away and my mind has time to wander.
Yes! I put 14,000 hours on my Macbook and wore the letters off two keyboards, and then it died. (About time I guess)
I bought a used MacBook, (Heck if it ain't broke applies)
End Note: Yes, I buried Mac. It was a good friend and served me well.

subset: commoncrawl


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Request Senior Care
10 Ideas to Cut Costs of Assisted Living
Responding YES to some of these questions may help to reduce the cost of assisted living.
1. Along the same line as hotel ratings, can you manage to be comfortable in a "3 star" moderate facility as opposed to needing a "5 star" luxury facility?
2. Are you able to forgo a room with special views, a location close to common areas, ground floor, or with a balcony and patio?
3. Are you willing to move to a facility that is in a lower traffic, possibly quiet urban setting with less nearby conveniences such as shopping center complexes?
4. Are you willing to relocate to an overall lower cost of living area that may be some distance from your current home?
5. Are you willing to reduce your square footage living requirements substantially, which may accommodate only a few special pieces of furniture?
6. Are you willing to share an apartment or room with a roommate or share a bathroom in a suite arrangement?
7. Will you consider moving to a new facility with no prior track record or established reputation but that may offer new residents special moving in rates?
8. Is your family willing and able to share with some of the maintenance chores such as housekeeping, laundry and transportation?
9. Is your family willing and able to purchase medications and supplies outside of facility at lower prices?
10. If you or your spouse is independent and in good health, will you consider living in the independent senior apartment area and bringing in outside help for the more dependent one?


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BATON ROUGE, LA — Police are searching for an LSU senior who went missing early Tuesday morning.
The Baton Rouge Police Department confirmed that a missing person report has been filed for Chris Broussard, 22. His family told NBC33 News that his mother received a message from him on Tuesday, Aug. 27 at roughly 1:00 a.m. and that he has not been seen or heard from since.
Broussard allegedly left a party Tuesday evening and was driving his Nissan pickup truck. He was headed to his family's home in Ascension Parish. He was last seen wearing a white polo shirt and red shorts. He is 5'8", 130 lbs, and has a thin beard.
Broussard graduated from Catholic High School in 2009 and is currently enrolled for classes at LSU. He is majoring in Criminology and Sociology.
If you know anything regarding Broussard's whereabouts, call Crime Stoppers at (225) 344-STOP (7867). You can also text your tip to CRIMES (274637). Include CS225 at the beginning of your message.
Click here to view more active missing person cases in Louisiana.


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Jaws dropped when Chris Brown posted a super racy photo to Instagram of himself licking a women's bare butt! Now, the rappers fans are speaking out about the absolutely shocking picture from his 2010 video, 'No Bullsh*t!'
Chris Brown, 25, certainly knows how to get a reaction! The X artist posted a shocking throwback shot of himself licking a woman's butt on his Instagram on Aug. 7. The rappers fans — and haters — are speaking out about the surprising picture, and they are just as stunned as we are! Read below for all the details!
Chris has never been shy — especially on Instagram. The singer is notorious for posting personal quotes and messages, that certainly keep us guessing about who he is referring too.
Karrueche Tran: It's Time To Forget About Chris Brown
This is also not the first time the "Loyal" singer has posted a picture of a woman's naked butt. In early July, he posted a revealing shot of his longtime girlfriend, Karrueche Tran's backside. We can't say that we are totally surprised by his latest picture — which he deleted shortly after posting.
As HollywoodLife.com previously reported, the shocking pic was from his video "No Bullsh*it," but that's not the only interesting picture that Breezy posted that night. He also posted a second Instagram photo of himself making a shocked face, with the caption, "That face you make when your homies say something real stupid in front a group of girls and it f**k up ya game!" Sounds like Chris is already trying to pick up new ladies!
Although the picture may be old, his fans certainly had plenty to say about the shot!
Chris brown eats butt? Mmmhmmm and they tried to say birthday cake wasn't about that, I knew it!
— Jack Sparrow (@Cyyyyyddddd_) August 8, 2014
So, enough about Chris Brown eating butt, what colleges are yall going to in the Fall? 👀 — KDM♠ (@TheExquisite_) August 8, 2014
If my girl expect me to eat her butt, I'ma sue Chris Brown…
— SCO THE PLUG (@CiscoSavage) August 8, 2014
Chris brown wasnt even lickin butt so yall can kill the jokes now — Skip Baeless (@almondnjoyy) August 8, 2014
That picture of Chris Brown lickin that butt was from his "NO BS" video… Many years ago.
— J$AP Rocky (@JasmineRose_) August 8, 2014
Chris Brown eats butt and hits women but y'all love him. So why is it a problem when I tell you to make me a sandwich? — Edward Newgate (@NaptimeJones) August 8, 2014
Chris Brown Posts Throwback Pic With Karrueche Tran
Chris certainly does wear his heart on his sleeve! On Aug. 3, the singer posted an adorable picture of Karrueche saying, "My only #WCW," Chris captioned the pic of Kae who was in an American flag bikini top and adorably cut off denim shorts. In typical Chris fashion though he of course deleted the picture within minutes of originally posting it.
As HollywoodLife.com previously reported, Chris had just broken up with Kae, but it appears that he was having second thoughts when he posted the pic. Unfortunately, the couple broke up because Chris feels that he can no longer trust her, even though she has stuck with him through some of his toughest challenges, such as rehab and jail.
A source told us, "Chris is done with Karrueche and that's the real reason he didn't bring her to St. Tropez. He loves her, he really do, but he can't deal with her and the honest truth is, sorry, but he doesn't trust her. He just doesn't."
Hopefully these two can make it work, but we are still busy picking our jaws up off the ground over his shocking pic!
What do YOU think, HollywoodLifers? Were you surprised by the racy pic?
– Caitlin Beck
More Chris Brown News:
- Chris Brown Posts Obscene Photo Of Himself Licking Bare Butt
- Chris Brown Reveals Romantic Throwback Pic With Karrueche Tran
- Chris Brown Talks 'Settling Down' — About Rihanna Or Karrueche Tran?
View Comment
Posted at 11:29 PM on August 16, 2014
Jay Lanay
Posted at 5:13 AM on August 12, 2014
I'm really confused as to why "fans" freaked out over it? OBVIOUSLY the picture was from a scene in his "NO BS" video from 4 years ago and OBVIOUSLY y'all aren't real fans people you WOULDVE knew the clip off rip. Yall ask "why did he post it"? BECAUSE HE WANTED TO! GODDAMN GET OFF HIS DICK!!! Chris Brown can never do ANYTHING w/o gettin criticized!!
#TeamBreezy ! Love you Chris
Posted at 2:52 PM on August 10, 2014
Posted at 10:43 PM on August 8, 2014
What the hell is wrong. With @chrisbrown he don't even think. And I know for a fact that picture is old. It's from 2010. Anyways like. He shouldn't even posted that disgusting picture on. Instagram like he on to even think at all when he be posting things on Instagram I don't know what is wrong with celebrites now A days
Posted at 12:41 PM on August 8, 2014
I also read a comment somewhere where someone was telling one of her cousins that she is so down to earth for someone who is dating a celebrity… and advising her to keep reaching for the stars. I told you'll that someone dumber than dumb had to be advising this chick for her to be acting desperate like this and not feeling ashamed. Well now we know who. Those family members all have their eyes on the prize (CB money) so they are using her as the pawn. People say all along that if they were her family they would disown her, but maybe is should be the other way around.
Ok, but you are just hinting and not getting to the point. Who are the family members? Her mom and grand-parents? Her brother? Jyran and cristina milian? I don't think her mom would stoop as low as to train her daughter to be scheming and go after him until she takes over his life. But you might be right. There are terrible parents out there who don't have any consciousness or scruples whatsoever. :(
After seeing this pic I just feel tired of having any hope that he will ever change for the better. Nobody in their right mind posts this. It lacks taste and shows he is sick and degenerate. He has this spiteful thing about him that if a girl doesn't beg him to come back he starts doing stupid things to seek attention but on the long run it just pushes women away and sends out a negative message to his followers. People start questioning his integrity and sanity.
Karrueche also needs therapy. She needs to have a healthy self-esteem and gain some self-respect so the rest of her relationships won't be dysfunctional and she won't keep allowing men to step on her depriving her of her self-worth and dignity. Most of this is her fault. Nobody told her to stay. She stayed knowing that he was never going to change and that he would continue dehumanizing her. That is why basically it is not all his fault. If a guy breaks up with you and you still don't leave and you see that his behavior gets worse and nevertheless you stay, then something is utterly wrong with you. Like someone said yesterday: By her doing this, she will go down in history as the dumbest attention seeker or side-chick that has ever walked on planet Earth.
Posted at 11:16 AM on August 8, 2014
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News from the world of Maths
December 7, 2010
How does Santa manage to squeeze through chimneys? How do reindeers manage to fly? When will I get the Christmas shopping done? These things are mysteries, so in keeping with the mood, Door 8 opens on some of our favourite mysteries from the world of maths. |
December 2, 2010
When you saw us outside building snow-mathematicians and throwing snowballs we weren't just larking about, honestly! We were actually conducting in-depth research into symmetry and trajectories — and here our results, behind door number 2... |
December 2, 2010
The end of the year (as well as a Plus birthday) put us in the mood to reflect on mathematical milestones. Celebrate with us behind door number 3... |
December 1, 2010
Inspired by the Science in School Advent Calendar, here is the 1st door to open.... I wonder what is inside? |


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BullsTV Preview: Knicks vs. Bulls - 4.10.12
Chuck Swirsky of BullsTV looks ahead to Tuesday night's matchup between the Knicks and Bulls in Chicago


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The file sharing site, features links which users can download from each other. It's ranked as the 12 most visited website in Sweden and 77th in the world, according to Alexa Internet.
The site currently has over 5.5 million registered users and has over 4 million torrent files.
The order follows the ruling back in February where the UK high court ruled The Pirate bay violated copyright regulations. Justice Arnold said that Pirate bay was responsible for illegal activity on the site.
"In my judgment, the operators of TPB do authorise its users' infringing acts of copying and communication to the public," said Arnold. "They go far beyond merely enabling or assisting. On any view, they sanction, approve, and countenance the infringements of copyright committed by its users. But in my view they also purport to grant users the right to do the acts complained of. It is no defence that they openly defy the rights of the copyright owners."
The Pirate Bay made sardonic remarks about Justice Arnold's February ruling on their blog.
"In my judgment, the courts of [United Kingdom of Censorship] do authorise its judges' acts of corruption and being technically uneducated. They go far beyond merely enabling and assisting," Pirate bay wrote. "I conclude that both judges' and the politicians of [United Kingdom of Censorship] infringe the rights of the people... in the world."
The British Recorded Music Industry (BPI) had originally asked The Pirate Bay to take down music on the site that violated its members' copyright in July 2011. Pirate Bay did not respond and BPI asked internet providers to block site. After the refusal of the internet service providers, BPI then went to court in December of 2011.
BT is also involved in the case and asked for more time to observe the original request by BPI. BPI has agreed to give BT more time.
BT was ordered by the same judge to block its users from accessing the site newzbin in 2011 after legal action was taken in the UK by Hollywood film studios.
According to ILO (International Law Office) the Pirate Bay case was very similar to the newzbin case.
"The judge considered that this case was indistinguishable from Newzbin and, if anything, was a stronger example of authorisation," said ILO.
"Following this ruling on preliminary infringement issues, the claimants are in a strong position to obtain the necessary blocking orders against the ISPs, as happened in Newzbin. The UK record industry has claimed a key victory in its ongoing battle with The Pirate Bay and the High Court's endorsement of the Newzbin decision will encourage rights holders to press ahead with further applications for website blocking orders."
Greg Mead, CEO of Musicmetric, says that copyright infringement causes the industry to lose over £1bn a year in sales.
"While illegal downloads can encourage fans to then buy merchandise or gig tickets, particularly in new or emerging markets, the loss of sales costs the industry more than £1bn a year in the UK and more than five times that in the USA," said Mead.
"At a time where global recession is piling pressure on arts spending, this is a massive burden on the entertainment industry. It remains to be seen if the DNS blocking methods used by the ISPs will be effective in reducing access to The Pirate Bay or other sites."
Please follow this author on Twitter @Tineka_S or comment below.
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fall shouldn't upset Mourhit's Dublin defence
Chris Turner for the IAAF
20 March 2002 - At the beginning of March, Belgium's Mohammed Mourhit, the reigning double men's long course IAAF World Cross Country champion, made, what was for most spectators, a surprise season's indoor debut, competing in the 3000 metres final at the European Indoor Championships in Vienna.
Unfortunately, while the race itself was always part of Mourhit's preparations for his attempt at a 'hat trick' of World Cross Country titles in Dublin next weekend, the outcome of that Viennese interlude certainly was not! On the very first lap of the 3000 metres, Mourhit fell, eventually finishing a distant sixth (7:59.79).
Currently training with Maurice, his eldest brother and coach, in Ilfrane in their native Morocco, Mourhit concedes that Vienna was a great disappointment, particularly as it didn't allow him to truly gauge his form. The trip to Austria was also the only interlude in a period of intensive training that began at New Year and will reach its crescendo in Dublin.
However, Mourhit's time trials are faster, and he also believes he is in overall better physical shape than last year when he retained his long course title for the first time in Ostend, Belgium. The aim of a third gold medal is definitely feasible, after all "that is what we have been training for," commented his brother.
Mourhit intends to travel to Dublin quite late this week, on Thursday 21st March or perhaps even Friday. "The race will be difficult and the Ethiopian team stand out as the toughest competitors," confirmed Maurice, but "nevertheless he is extremely confident and with God's help he will be the best once again."
Mourhit, who has competed for Belgium since 1997, and is the first man to simultaneously hold European records on the track at 3000, 5000 and 10,000 metres since Finland's Paavo Nurmi in the 1920's, also has a very demanding summer schedule planned, competing in the IAAF Golden League meetings, the World Cup in Madrid and the European Championships in Munich.


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Florence Hotel Unicorno, budget hotel 3 star in Florence centre
Florence Hotel Unicorno is a three 3-star hotel, located in the heart of Florence, in Via de' Fossi, an elegant road of antique shops that leads to Piazza Santa Maria Novella. Hotel Unicorno is also ideal for business and congress stays, thanks to its closeness to the most important event locations and business centres in Florence: Fortezza da Basso, Palazzo dei Congressi and Palazzo degli Affari.
Florence Hotel Jane
Situated near the historical city centre of Florence. A collection of antiques and modern art add a touch of eclectic charm to Hotel Jane, one of the most original and appreciated hotels in Florence owing to its genuine hospitality and welcoming environment.
Florence Hotel Residence: Selec Executive near Station
Florence Select Executive is a 4 Stars hotel residence in Florence, located near the city centre and florence train station. It is the ideal location both for holiday and for business. All the rooms are stylish furnished and equipped with modern comforts such as cable television, telephone, coffee and tea maker, refrigerator and many more, room service.
Tuscany Holiday Resort Poggio all'Agnello - Apartments in Tuscany
Situated near Piombino at just 2km from the Gulf of Baratti, opposite the island of Elba, the Resort has been designed to perfectly satisfy the needs of a varied clientele, making it the ideal destination for the whole family, for Conferences & Events, for sports lovers, for those who want to get to know our territory and more.
Hotel First in Florence
The First Hotel is immediately after the exit for the Casello Highway (Calenzano/Sesto Fiorentino) and only 1.5km from the Florence North exit. Its location is ideal for shopping, sightseeing, and day excursions, while it is also located close to the Airport and within only 7km from the historical center of Florence.
Hotel Elite in Florence - 2 Stars Cheap Hotel in Florence center
Hotel Elite in Florence is a little two-star hotel situated in the historic centre of Florence, in front of the stupendous S. Maria Novella Church, just 300 m from the railway station of the same name and 10 minutes from the most important historical attractions of the city. Hotel Elite offers a real cheap accommodation in Florenec center near all major monuments and museums.
Florence Hotel Domus Florentiae, Hotel in Florence Center
Florence Hotel Domus Florentiae, 3-star hotel recently renovated, is and Hotel located in Florence Center. boasts an enviable location in the heart of the historic center of Florence being situated in the beautiful Piazza Santa Maria Novella, just 200 meters from the main railway station.
Hotel Desirée in Florence - 3 Stars Hotel in Florence center
Hotel Desirée: eighteen bedroom-suites placed in the centre of Florence swallowed by the quiet of a small family business hotel. It is hundred meters far from the main station and few steps away from the most important monuments of the city, Florence Dome (Santa Maria del Fiore), the Fortezza da Basso and the Convention centre.
Residence Appartamenti Milano
Il Residence de la Gare è dotato di appartamenti arredati con cucina e ampie camere, per un soggiorno di lavoro o di vacanza a Milano. Il Residence de la Gare si trova in centro a Milano,vicino la Stazione Centrale di Milano. Il Residence de la Gare offre spaziosi appartamenti con servizi personalizzabili e un rapporto prezzo qualità piu' competitivo rispetto alla classica sistemazione in camera d'hotel.
Alessandria Relais Hotel Castello di Oviglio:Italian castles for wedding
Hotel Relais Oviglio Castle is an impressive and luxurious, historic residence, situated between two of the most fascinating areas of Piedmont: Monferrato and Langhe, or rather halfway between the provinces of Asti and Alessandria. Oviglio Castle is a glamorous setting for intimate and elegant wedding event
B&B Bellini Florence
The Bed and Breakfast Bellini is a lovely and charming building of the 1900th, 10 minutes walking distance from the historical center. Easily reachable by car as well as by pubblic transports, at the Bed and Breakfast Bellini you will find a familiar, warm and confortable environment, suitable for pleasure as well as business stay.
Fano Hotel Imperial - Albergo Marotta di Fano
Fano Hotel Imperial is an all comfort Hotel located in Marotta di Fano, only few steps from the private beach and a wide garden nearby, where our Guests can relax and join a friendly atmosphere. The Fano Hotel Imperial features 42 rooms with a sea view balcony. All rooms are modern and fully equipped, with air conditioning, TV sat, direct phone, hair dryer, safe, bathroom with shower.
Milan Hotel Wagner Milano
The 4 star Hotel Wagner Milano, nestled in the heart of Milan city centre is a few steps away from the Duomo, Via Montenapoleone and (just 200 meters away) from the fair ground (trade centre) Milano City, proposes to its own guests a modern and elegant structure of international level, to full fill and make your stay in Milan most comfortable and enjoyable as possible, both for leisure travel and business trips.
Florence Hotel Villa Carlotta - Romantic Villa in Florence
Hotel Florence VILLA CARLOTTA is a Romantic 19th century patrician manor, situated in the wooded residential area around Porta Romana, at the foot of Piazzale Michelangelo, and within walking distance to the Pitti Palace and the Ponte Vecchio. Wonderful Romantic location for your stay in Florence, italy.
Naples Hotel 3 Star
Three Star Hotel Garibaldi is strategically positioned in Naples City Centre. It is located at a short distance from Naples Central Train Station � Piazza Garibaldi, starting point to discover the beauties of Campania Region, and placed at a few steps from the ancient historical centre enriched by churches, world famous museums and monuments.
Cheap Hotel in Florence
Hotel Palazzuolo is a cheap hotel in florence, located in the historic centre of the city, very close to the main Train Station of Santa Maria Novella and to the major city museums. All our rooms are very comfortable, spacious and bright. All of them, with few exceptions, have bathroom inside. The friendly atmosphere nd the family management make the Hotel Palazzuolo a perfect solution for anyone wishing to spend some time in Florence.
Lago di Garda.net: il portale del Garda
Portale del lago di Garda, con informazioni su locali, cultura, alberghi, manifestazioni ed eventi sul lago di Garda, per i residenti e per i turisti.
Typical Tuscany Farm Apartaments
In a typical Tuscan landscape, the �Fattoria Il Cantuccio�, with the annexed villa, situated in Tavarnelle Val di Pesa - Firenze, has ancient origins that go back to the beginning of 1500. Farm il Cantuccio is a typical tuscany farm with apartaments in Tuscan landscape close to Florence.
Hotel Montreal in Florence
Hotel Montreal is located in the historic centre of the city of Florence, very close to the main Train Station of Santa Maria Novella and to the major city museums.
Hotel Postumia in Verona
Hotel Postumia e' situato a pochi km dal centro di Verona, a due passi dall'Aeroporto Valerio Catullo e nelle vicinanze dell'uscita autostradale Verona Nord | Verona Sud e Sommacampagna.
Florence Luxury Hotel - Hotel degli Orafi in Florence
Luxury Hotel in Florence located just a stone's throw from the river Arno and overlooking Florence's charming medieval bridge, the Ponte Vecchio, Florence Hotel degli Orafi offers both a convenient and comfortable location from which you can enjoy the wonders of this beautiful Tuscan capital.
Hotel La Gioconda in Florence
In the historic heart of Florence, at a few steps from the Duomo and from Santa Maria Novella, at 3 minutes from elegant Via Tornabuoni and San Lorenzo, the refined and historic rooms of Hotel La Gioconda welcome guests with typical Florentine friendliness but also with very modern comforts and impeccable services.
Hotel Giglio in Florence
Hotel Giglio is located in an historic building on Via Cavour, a popular main street in the center of Florence, only a leisurely walk away from many of the most visited historical sites of Florence like the Florence Dome. Hotel Giglio has recently been completely renovated to offer its guests all the modern comforts in a distinguished atmosphere.
Bed & Breakfast La Mongolfiera in Florence
The Bed & Breakfast "La Mongolfiera" is found in an elegant and completely restored Chalet located in Florence in a majestic and reserved residential area tucked at the foot of the Fiesole Hills.
Congress Hotel degli Imperatori in Rome
Hotel degli Imperatori Rome, inaugurated in 2000, offers 50 characteristic and welcoming rooms, each one elegantly furnished to include all modern comforts. Hotel 4 Stars in Rome with meeting rooms and Conference Center.
Hotels in Rome Termini - Marconi in Rome
Totally renewed, Hotel Marconi Roma is located in the heart of Rome only meters from the main railway station Rome Termini with subway lines and public transport allowing you to easily reach the most important historical monuments of Rome like the Opera Theater, Trevi Fountain, the Baths of Diocletian, and many more.
Rome City Guide - tourist information about Rome, Italy
Welcome to Rome Guide, a tourist information site about Rome, Italy. This site is intented for everyone who is thinking about visiting Rome. Inside you will find a host of information about Rome, its museums, traditions and culture. Known as the "Ethernal city", Rome is not only represented by it works of art, monuments and museums: on its streets and alleys one may discover traits of typical Italian lifestyle.
Architetto Marconi Pesaro
Architetto Paolo Marconi Pesaro: studio di architettura, architetti, studi architettura. Architetto Paolo Marconi · Via Montello, 4 - 61121 Pesaro · Tel. +39 0721 32447 · Fax. +39 0721 374603
Florence Hotel Park Palace 4 Stars hotel in Florence
Hotel Park Palace in Florence is a real Florentine style Villa which offers a cozy atmosphere throughout the entire Hotel and its 26 lovely rooms. Hotel Park Palace is a 4 Stars Hotel Located in florence city near Giardino di Boboli, Garden, Palazzo Pitti and Ponte Vecchio Old Bridge.
Residence Abruzzo Colle Veroni
Il Reidence Colle Veroni si trova in Abruzzo, a due passi dal paese di Mosciano S. Angelo, in provincia di Teramo. Residence con Appartamenti per soggiorni di vacanza a Teramo, Giulianova Abruzzo. Appartamenti Residence con piscina, parcheggio e cucina attrezzata
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A very special day for a member of the Scuderia Ferrari at the Racing Days in Shanghai on 2 June: Lorencio, especially flown in from Hong Kong for the event, was welcomed like a true VIP at the event's conclusive day with all the different Corse Clienti cars on the track.
At midday Lorencio was taken on an exclusive visit of the paddock, where he had a close look at the 458 Challenge, got to know the drivers and discovered the garages.
Our friend from Hong Kong had the amazing possibility to follow this event from a very special position. Continue following us, because we'll be back in China soon!


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An SEO copywriter walks into a pub, bar, public house, venue, beer, lager, wine, spirits, cocktails, pub food, gastropub, happy hour…
And how we laugh. Still. Every time this tired old joke wheezes its way around Twitter, we all drop to the ground, rolling about in paroxysms of laughter, attempting to hold in our ruptured and leaking sides.
Or not. Because that joke isn't funny anymore.
Forgive me for indulging my curmudgeonly side for once (who's kidding, you love it), but I'm sick to the back teeth of the truism that states all an SEO copywriter does is wedge as many synonyms as possible into a piece in order to attract attention from the search engines.
It's absolute, complete and utter bollocks.
An SEO Copywriter is Still a Copywriter
A copywriter's job, regardless of prefix, is to influence the reader. To persuade them to take a particular action. Doing that requires skill, finesse, and usually a degree of subtlety.
And that means that the copywriter has to focus on choosing the right words and phrases. The ones that appeal to a human reader, not a search engine. Cack-handedly shoving in as many synonyms as the Thesaurus lists isn't a way to appeal to anyone.
So why does the myth of the SEO copywriter as a slave to the search engine algorith persist? Is it because nobody's quite sure what an SEO copywriter does? Because too many content farms market there bargain-bucket fare as SEO copy?
Whatever the reason, the myth is just that. A writer who puts the needs of the search engines ahead of the needs of the reader isn't an SEO copywriter. They're a fool.
And if they're a keyword-stuffer, they're a fool twice over.
If Your SEO Copywriter is Trying to Keyword Stuff, Shoot Him
Shooting them might sound harsh, but the only alternative is firing them. And if you do that, they might well come back.
And if they come back, your site's going nowhere on the search engines because keyword stuffing doesn't work.
Not only is it pointless now, but it's been largely pointless through the whole of this nascent decade, and a fair chunk of the last one. So any "SEO" who's noticably filling your pages with synonymous guff isn't doing a very good job.
In fact, they're doing a terrible job, because creating pages with ridiculous, useless content is a great way to have your site disregarded by users and crawlers alike.
So if the synonyms are out, the SEO copywriter doesn't walk into a pub, bar, gastropub, hostelry, drinking house, boozer… They do what everyone else does. They just walk into a bar.
And if Ben Locker's anything to go by, when a writer walks into a bar, it's to buy a rather large scotch.
So, what do you think? Is it time we laid this joke to rest, or should SEO copywriters be less sensitive?


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Benefit Planned to Help Families of Fatal Truxton Crash
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
A benefit has been scheduled to help the families of the seven people killed in the tractor trailer mini-van crash that occurred in the Town of Truxton at the end of May.
Back on May 29, a tractor trailer hauling scrap cars on Route 13 became detached and collided with a minivan carrying eight people.
Seven people were killed in the horrific wreck; the victims included 26 year Teresa Bush, her two daughters, 5 year old Jasmine and 4 year old Alexis, two other children, 7 year old Alyssa Mead and 4 year old Tyler Mead were killed. Their father, Shawn Mead, 31 was the only survivor of the crash. 21 year old Lena Beckwith and her fiancé 24 year old Carino Vanorden died in the crash, the couple was expecting a baby.
On Sunday, July 28, there will be a "Benefit Jamboree" from Noon to 6 p.m. at the Cuyler Fire Station to help the Bush and Beckwith families cover funeral expenses.
There will be live entertainment from Chain Reaction, Aiken Heart and Loaded Dice.
If your unable to attend but would like to donate, you may mail checks to The Beckwith/Bush Fund, 25 S. Main Street, Homer.
For more information or to purchase raffle tickets, call Penny Fink (607) 591-9111 or Lou Anne Randall (607) 842-6695.
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I would still like to seeSubmitted by Guest5555555555555555555555 (not verified) on Wed, 08/11/2010 - 7:22pm.
I would still like to see another outside neutral agency to investigate. Wither or not there was abuse of power from CB Police and the were people at fault for killing a federal endangered protected species. When North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries says it will not investigate that is very p**s poor and laziness in their be-half. There does not need to be anyone local investigate this matter. »
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Kelly Rowland announces on 'The Queen Latifah Show' that when her boyfriend proposed at first, it was on Skype! Patrick Jones (@Patrick_E_Jones) describes how that medium is a lot more romantic than you think.
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British driver Peter Gethin, winner of the 1971 Italian Grand Prix, has died at the age of 71 after succumbing to a long illness. During 30 Formula One starts, Gethin raced for McLaren, BRM and Graham Hills Embassy team.
Surrey-born Gethin made his F1 debut, aged 30, for McLaren in 1970, the team drafting him in following the death of founder Bruce McLaren. However, he was best known for his Monza triumph, which saw the top five finishers covered by just 0.61s.
Gethins victory came in only his second Grand Prix for BRM, after he had switched from McLaren for the 1971 season, again stepping into the breach following the death of a teams star driver, in this case Mexicos Pedro Rodriguez.
The 71 Italian race - then the fastest Grand Prix in F1 history in terms of average speed - was to be Gethins only Formula One triumph and he scored just one more world championship point, with sixth place for BRM again at Monza in 1972.
After a single appearance for BRM in 1973 he concluded his Formula One career with a one-off outing for Graham Hills eponymous team at his home Grand Prix in 1974, though he later returned to the sport as team manager for Toleman in the mid 80s.
It was arguably Gethins adventures in other series, however, that best illustrated his versatility as a driver. He notably won the 1973 Race of Champions at Brands Hatch at the wheel of an F5000 car, in doing so beating a strong line-up of F1 drivers and machinery.


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Fitzpatrick named starter by Texans
by Joe Buscaglia
posted Jun 17 2014 2:10PM
Former Buffalo Bills starting quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick will get yet another chance to be a starter in the league. Houston Texans head coach Bill O'Brien announced on Tuesday afternoon that Fitzpatrick will head into the regular season as the starting quarterback.
The former Bills player might just get a chance for revenge, too, when Houston welcomes in Buffalo for their Week Four tilt in the upcoming season. In his time with the Bills, Fitzpatrick had a record of 20-33 as their starter.
After having been released by Buffalo ahead of the 2013 NFL Draft, the quarterback was then scooped up by the Tennessee Titans. He was brought in to be the backup for young starter Jake Locker, but when the former first-round pick got injured Fitzpatrick made nine starts throughout 2013.
The Titans switched up their coaching staff and Fitzpatrick was released one year into the two-year deal he signed. He signed a two-year deal with the Texans this offseason, and then beat out Case Keenum, T.J. Yates and rookie Tom Savage to be the starter.
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2 More Undercover Officers Revealed in #D12 Gulf Port 7 Trial
12:27 pm in Uncategorized by Kit OConnell
More on the Gulf Port 7: Austin Police Enabled Houston Felonies, Judge Campbell is Not Amused and Austin and Houston Police Coordinated Through Fusion Center.
Despite pleas by the Austin Police Department to drop the charges, the trial against the Gulf Port 7 will continue next year.
As a consequence, the Austin Police Department were forced to turn photos, emails and documents relating to their investigation over to Judge Joan Campbell. Since APD insists the undercover investigation into Occupy Austin is ongoing, they asked her to suppress the release of the information to the defense. After review by Campbell, a portion of the documents have been released to defense and are making their way to the media.
Campbell's release reveals that a total of six undercover officers were assigned to monitor Occupy Austin, but three were apparently not involved directly in the lockbox incident where undercover Austin police built lockbox devices. Made from PVC pipes and also known as sleeping dragons or dragon sleeves, lockboxes linked seven protesters together at the December 12, 2011 Port of Houston shutdown. The use of these devices resulted in these occupiers from Austin, Dallas and Houston facing felony charges instead of the misdemeanors brought against those who simply linked their arms and legs.
The first undercover revealed was Shannon G Dowell, who had been forced to testify in the trial's discovery phase. But now we've learned the names of two more — Rick Reza, shown making a phallic gesture with the lockbox in the photo at right. The other, Deek Moore, was apparently the photographer of these rather candid photos of cop antics.
Questions remain about what communication occurred between Austin and Houston police and to what degree Texas fusion centers were involved, either the Austin Regional Intelligence Center or the Texas-wide equivalent. Since Campbell chose to keep many of the documents hidden, much will remain unknown about Austin Police involvement before and after December 12. Campbell has seemed to support the defense's position — first attempting to drop the charges entirely and then pushing for a thorough discovery phase when forced to hear the case by a grand jury. This potential ally will be lost when the trial continues in early 2013 — Judge Joan Campbell is retiring, and her replacement will be selected by Texas Governor Rick Perry.
One of the Gulf Port 7, Iraq Veteran Eric Marquez remains imprisoned. After fundraising by Occupy Austin, Occupy Houston and Occupy Chicago bailed him out of a Harris County, Texas jail where he'd been held since the Port Shutdown, he was imprisoned in Dallas for missing court dates during the initial jail stay. Though he now has National Lawyers' Guide representation, an apparent determination by the prison industrial complex to keep him inside means he will probably still be behind bars on December 12 2012. According to Garza, charges in Dallas could add up to four years to the years he already faces for his alleged "use of a criminal instrument" at the Port.
Activists Question Austin Police Chief's Peace Award