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11. Encounters
Gimli was roused from his sleep by someone shaking him, and such was the tension of the preceding days that he instantly lashed out with the back of his fist. He hit air, which was perhaps fortunate, for as he rolled to his feet in a crouch, dark eyes fierce, he saw Aragorn kneeling nearby.
The Ranger had one hand on the ground behind him to support his sudden recoil, and his expression was a mixture of surprise, alarm, and amusement for such a vicious wakening. Beyond him, Legolas looked on with a slight smile, which eased Gimli's chagrin appreciably. Anything to begin this day with less pain than the last!
"Your pardon," the Dwarf muttered nevertheless as he straightened. Aragorn rose smoothly, shaking his head, and a smile played at the corners of his mouth.
"I think I shall let Legolas wake you tomorrow," he replied. "His reflexes are better than mine."
"You were not struck," the Elf pointed out. "I fear that if he knew I was to wake him, he might take aim rather than flailing blindly!"
"And if you cannot trouble yourself to duck a punch, then you shall deserve your bruises," Gimli retorted, pulling his pack onto his back just as the sun cleared the horizon. "Shall we tarry here longer?"
"Nay, for the road calls us ever onward," the Ranger said, instantly sobering. "Eat as you run – we have much ground to recover."
And so the three hunters took up the trail again. The vast, rolling plains of Rohan spread before them, and as the sun rose, its beams touched upon the beads of dew clinging to the grass and set them afire with a radiant, rainbow splendor. It was as if the fields of the Riddermark were covered in diamond dust, even as legendary Tirion, and the sky above was pale and cloudless as only a late winter's morn can be. Over the glittering green sward they ran, small figures between the vast emptiness of earth and sky.
So intent were they upon finding some trace of the hobbits amid the confusion of the Orcs' trampling, that the companions were almost heedless of the beauty, though even Aragorn could see nothing to help them. Yet sight is not all, and that sense of void, of utter isolation crowned with fragile and incomprehensible glory, touched on their thoughts, troubling their hearts as they held to their course with single-minded determination. Sometimes it waxed greater, and at other times that sense of absence was too ethereal to make itself known as such among the myriad stimuli of a morning's hard run; but it remained ever constant, present in their most unconscious thoughts, and its effects were not insensible.
Running in Aragorn's wake, the Dwarf bared his teeth, feeling his joints stiff from the nighttime chill. The prospect of another day on the hunt was not encouraging, but he thought of Merry and Pippin, driven to exhaustion and beyond by the cruel whips of the Orcs, and let his wrath fuel his legs. A Dwarf's fine sense of vengeance is unflagging in pursuit of its object, and for Glóin's son honor—To say nothing of friendship!—would be satisfied only when that thirst for retribution was quenched in blood.
Dark were his thoughts beneath the bright sun, and as the miles stretched into leagues, and the leagues themselves seemed to grow ever longer, he threw the full weight of his will against exhaustion and struggled along, wishing just once for some of the height that his companions had. For if in the morning he had managed two strides for every one of Aragorn's, by the time the afternoon arrived, the proportion had risen to four to one, and Gimli was wondering whether Rangers ever in fact grew weary.
But that was not the reason that he dropped to the rear of their short line. For though he tired of the grueling pace, still, he could maintain it at need and had not yet reached the point of desperation. Not so Legolas, he suspected, for the Elf had fallen steadily back as the day progressed. And if Gimli had thought Elves other-worldly—even to the point of fault—he had never thought to see one who was wholly absent from his surroundings. Yet as they ran, the Dwarf had watched Legolas retreat from his initial weary good humor into a state not unlike that of a somnambulant, which was the more eerie for the fact that Elves routinely slept with their eyes wide open.
To Gimli's mind, Legolas spent too much time wandering in that elvish dreamland, and he was certain that such blank-faced preoccupation boded ill. Even in their brief pauses, the Elf had barely put two words together, opting to sit with his knees drawn up and his head bowed over them. Aragorn had spoken to the Elf in his native Sindarin during those rest periods, and had received uncharacteristically terse answers each time. But short of force, the Elf would not be restrained from continuing the hunt, and he would not be "coddled" (as he put it): thus when Aragorn returned to the chase, he was ever but a step behind.
But concern is not the same as coddling, Gimli thought, and I should hope that he realizes that. Alas, I fear that such nuances escape him at the moment. That was why the Dwarf had let himself fall to the end of the line, to be certain that he could keep an eye on Thranduil's stubborn son, and prevent disaster should it strike from that quarter.
For though Legolas held his place in line, there seemed to the Dwarf's discerning eye a certain disharmony, a subtle disequilibrium to the Elf's movements that was unsettling. Never before have I seen Legolas take a misstep, and it is not that he stumbles or staggers as we go, but…! Gimli scowled in concentration, then shook his head sharply. I cannot put it into words, yet there is something wrong in the way that he moves now. Folly, perhaps, to think that anyone could move cleanly with such an injury, and yet I cannot accept that this is normal, even for so strange a being as an Elf!
As the sun began to set, they came at last to the remains of an orcish campsite, and as Aragorn, weary but determined, began an exhaustive search of the ground, Gimli took the opportunity to sit down. Another few hours, perhaps, and we shall be forced to halt once more. Forced! The Dwarf heaved a large sigh at that. Even a Dwarf of the Lonely Mountain can scarce endure this march! And what of Legolas?
In the half-light, the Elf sat some small distance away, legs crossed and hands laid palms up upon his knees. His face was drawn and his attention, as it had been since early that morning, was focused inward. Or perhaps trapped, Gimli thought uneasily. He did not know how to stir his friend from this grievous state, nor whether it would be wise to try. I fear I still know little enough of Elves. Perhaps it is always thus when an Elf is hurt; perhaps Legolas needs his isolation to heal. But instinct continued to yammer at him, until, with a quick grimace, the Dwarf promised himself that he would seek Aragorn's counsel later that evening. Only mildly appeased, the voice of doubt ceased to babble, but it trailed wordless anxiety through Gimli's mind incessantly.
After a quarter of an hour, the Ranger loped over to join his companions, casting a sharp glance at Legolas ere he, too, lowered himself to the ground with a slight grimace.
"There is nothing to be seen, is there?" Gimli demanded in a low voice, and wondered why he tortured himself by asking. If there were anything of note, we would know it by now. Yet he felt compelled to ask, perhaps in the hopes of drawing the Elf out of his dark dreams.
"I fear not," Aragorn replied, and the very neutrality of his voice was suspect, hinting at his own unreasonable disappointment. "Cavalry passed through this place earlier, and I would guess that the Orcs must by now be well aware of pursuit. How it shall end, I cannot say, but in another two days, we shall reach Fangorn, and tracking shall become more difficult. An Elf's eyes will aid us greatly there, however this ends," he added.
Legolas blinked at that, apparently having realized that he was called upon to speak, or at least acknowledge his companions. And despite the growing darkness, Gimli did not miss the confused weariness that passed over the Elf's fair face: just a flash of emotion, but enough to threaten his composure, for the prince hung his head quickly and seemed to gather himself ere he looked up again.
"Much may happen in two days," the Elf murmured.
"It may," Aragorn responded, pausing an instant, ere he suddenly switched to Sindarin once again, seeming to ask a question. "Ranach khim, Legolas?"
"I am well enough. There is no point in asking before we halt for the night," Legolas replied, refusing the other's efforts to engage him in his own tongue. At least I now know what Aragorn said, Gimli thought, wondering at the Elf's refusal to let himself be treated this day, when he had been willing enough yesterday. Why suffer unnecessarily? But Aragorn simply nodded and rose once more.
"Then let us use these hours well ere we rest!" Gimli's soft groan was lost in the wind as the three companions wearily pressed forward once more.
Stars sprawled overhead, studding the inky darkness, and the last glow of the pale crescent moon disappeared over the horizon. A breeze stirred, rushing across the plains to flow over the three companions, who had at last surrendered the day's hunt. Aragorn shivered in spite of himself, and paced quietly to warm himself. In truth, he would have liked nothing more than to collapse and sleep until dawn, but he had drawn the first watch that night, and discomfort all aside, his thoughts were too unsettled at the moment for him to rest.
And the others are more weary than I, he thought, stretching to ease tired muscles as he looked over at his companions. Elf and Dwarf were both asleep, and Gimli was huddled beneath his cloak with his hood drawn up for warmth. Aragorn could readily sympathize, for his clothes, after three days of running, were damp and clammy with his own sweat and the dew of the night did nothing to ease the pervasive chill.
Still, there was much to be grateful for on that account. Thus far, the weather had been unusually mild for February, but the Ranger remembered all too well the misery of winter in Rohan. With or without snow, the windstorms upon the plains can brew quite suddenly, and then let the unwary traveler despair! Such storms, unimpeded upon the flats, gathered strength and speed the likes of which no one accustomed to Eriador's more hilly terrain could possibly imagine. The sharp, cold night breezes were hard enough to endure, but Aragorn did not relish the prospect of shepherding his friends through a windstorm.
Nevertheless, weather was the least of his concerns at the moment. Although there was no sign of either poison or infection, Legolas's wound still bled, for constant exertion would not allow it to begin to close. The bandages and salve helped to stop that flow, but as the hours wore on, such measures were increasingly less effective. And though it was not perilously deep, still, the cut was hardly shallow either, and the Elf was in constant pain as torn, abused muscles strained to bear weight and command movement that further damaged the tissues. The healer in Aragorn hated the thought of asking more of the Elf, but he knew also that Legolas was better able to bear up to such injury than either a Man or a Dwarf; to be perfectly honest, the Elf stood not yet in any real danger, physically. Had either he or Gimli been so wounded, they would certainly have fared worse, and been at greater risk of it festering.
So we may in some sense count Legolas's misfortune as good luck, after a fashion,, the Ranger thought humorlessly. At least they could continue together, and Aragorn need not worry overmuch about Legolas's physical recovery – that was a matter of time and proper rest of an injured body, frankly. It was not the arrow-wound that worried him at this point, but wounds of another sort that might in the end – which might not be so far distant – prove as crippling to heart and mind as a dagger to the lungs would cripple a man if it did not kill him. What would count as a death-blow to the spirit – that he did not know, perhaps could not, but he thought again of Moria, and of Arwen's face in the lamplight, and felt chilled.
As he stood in silent contemplation of the darkened land, he heard the distinctive sound of a Dwarf waking. For wounded or no, Legolas's movements were nearly noiseless, and the Ranger wondered what had roused Gimli from his rest a full four hours ere his watch began. But he said nothing, waiting for the Dwarf to approach, and sure enough, Gloín's son came to stand at his side.
"You should rest, my friend," Aragorn advised softly.
"I intend to," the Dwarf replied, "But I may not do so yet, for there is something I would ask you."
"About Legolas, I guess," the Ranger replied.
"I wished to be certain he was asleep ere we spoke," said Gimli, in tacit acknowledgement of his intuition. "All this day I have watched him, and yesterday as well, and I like not what I see, Aragorn. Discomfort and weariness have we all a share in; a short temper I might expect and understand; but this… this sleep-walking—that I cannot fathom!" The Dwarf shook his head in the darkness and sighed. "Tell me truly, what ails him? Is his wound more serious than you have said previously?"
"It is painful, and to set bone or stitches in that area of the body is difficult under the best of circumstances in the Wild," Aragorn said.
"Which, of course, these are not," Gimli hurried past the obvious, unwilling to let the Ranger side-track his inquiry. For though he doubted Aragorn would lie to him, the Man had a talent for misdirection that he had honed over the long decades of furtive service; if the news was ill, he might well try to keep it to himself for a time if not pressed hard for it. "But you know I mean otherwise than that. He walks like a ghost, Aragorn. I would not see him become one in truth!"
For awhile, there came no reply, which did little to ease Gimli's heart; clearly the Ranger was seeking the best way to say what must be said, and that worried him. Finally, though, Aragorn said, "The Eldar race is able to endure much hardship without wavering, and Legolas will endure for longer than either a Man or a Dwarf would. But I cannot close the wound, or prevent him from bleeding, Gimli, and though of itself the injury is not dangerous, our chase and exhaustion make it harder to bear. And I fear there are other peculiarities of Elves that must be watched."
"Such as?" Gimli demanded, impatiently.
At that, Aragorn sighed, glancing over his shoulder at the sleeping Elf, as if to reassure himself that Legolas slept still. "Think of the first time you were wounded in battle, Gimli, and recall the shock of that feeling. Do you remember how it was in the days afterward, seeing in that wound your own death waiting for you all untimely?"
Gimli's brows raised in consternation, then scowled into the darkness. "Aragorn," he murmured quietly, "do you tell me Legolas has never been wounded in battle before? I find that hard to believe. And even were it so, how is this then an elvish peculiarity? We have all of us tasted that fear and come through it in far less time, I might add. Tell me not that this comes of elvish longevity!"
"It does not, but then, I had not come to the peculiarities of Elves yet," Aragorn replied then, and Gimli grunted.
"My apologies. Say on," the Dwarf urged.
"The Eldar affect the land in which they live, as you will have noticed in Lórien and Rivendell, and if ever you visit Legolas in Mirkwood, you shall feel something of the power of the Elves at work in that realm as well. Everything that comes under their influence is subject to their shaping, in one way or another. We ourselves are changed by their presence, as I warned in Lothlórien," he said.
"But that bond between an Elf and his surroundings in turn lays him open to the land in ways mortals find hard to see or fathom: for the Elves are bound to Arda, and to all that is in it, much more strongly than is a Dwarf, and certainly more so than a Man or a hobbit." Aragorn gave an eloquent shrug. "While Middle-earth endures, so shall they, and they draw strength from it. In the beginning, when Arda was unstained, the Eldar were at the height of their powers."
"But what has this to do with Legolas's state?"
"Mayhap much. Middle-earth wanes, and so the Elves are lessened. And an Elf who is injured is dealt a wound on two levels, to body and soul. Legolas is young, born late into a world much weakened, and that is not without effect. Wounded, he suffers the unravelling of the cuiniant more easily, more acutely than one older than he might."
"The unravelling of what again?" Gimli asked, scowling at the Sindarin interjection.
"It is an elvish word for which I have no ready translation, I fear, for Men have no need of it," Aragorn replied, and fell silent a moment. After some thoughtful consideration, he continued slowly, "I would say it is the unity of Legolas that is threatened, and an Elf unaccustomed to such disruption is in peril. Even as Men fear the loss of their lives, and taste in injuries received their own mortality, an Elf fears the loss of his integrity. If there were others of his kind with us, then Legolas might find great comfort in their presence and advice, but alas! He must face this alone."
Gimli pursed his lips in the darkness, considering this startling information, and after a long moment, he shook his head. "I fear I do not understand all of this. Can you not help him, since you are familiar with his condition?"
"I have tried to speak with him a few times this day, but he will not hear me. And but that he is alone among mortals, I would not presume to speak of such matters, for I am but a Man and my knowledge comes of observation and 'book-learning,' as they say in the Shire," Aragorn said heavily.
"Then is there naught that we can do for him?"
"If our presence and such encouragement as we are able to provide are not enough, then we can do little more than to stand by him."
"And watch him deteriorate?"
"Say not so, for he may find his own way through such divisions," the Ranger responded. "And in the mean time, do not lose hope. Even as Men and Dwarves have learned to overcome their fears, Legolas will learn to overcome this."
Gimli grunted, then startled himself by yawning hugely. "Well," he sighed tiredly, "I still cannot say that I understand this, but I shall do as you advise and hope nonetheless. Elves!" With that last exasperated, worried complaint, the Dwarf returned to his patch of grass and lay down again, huddling beneath his cloak. Sleep descended almost instantly, burying thought in layers of warm, soothing oblivion, and he knew no more.
Aragorn stood silently watching him, and his heart was troubled. Well indeed that Gimli learns more of Elves if he wishes to pursue this friendship, but I cannot tell him all. For though what he had said was true enough, he feared that there was more to it than that, and that the Darkness under which they now lay had much more to do with Legolas's suffering than aught else. Legolas, after all, is no unblooded lad, however young his people may account him, he mused. He knows well enough how to handle himself when wounded. But if the Song of the World sings now of inescapable Darkness... That might well make of any wound a danger beyond the hurt it could do to a body, and especially if Legolas could hear that Song clearly enough to understand its portent. He thought again of Arwen, saw her horror in his mind's eye, and knew he would not be the one to confront Legolas with the truth. Not when it cost so much.
But did he keep his silence in vain? Had the Elf yet perceived the deadly veil of malice that Aragorn had wakened to in Moria? Was that what his present daze meant? The Ranger did not know. But he is an Elf, and so I doubt not that this evil affects him, though perhaps he does not recognize yet either its source or its extent. And Gimli yet has no inkling, I think.
He sighed softly, turning his eyes heavenward, to where the Evening Star blazed brightly above the horizon. How is it with you this night, my love? he wondered, and wondered whether he would ever have her answer.
Red rose the sun and dawn's light bled onto the plain as the three companions arose once more to toil. Silently they resumed their chase, and this time Gimli made certain to remain close at Legolas's back while the day lasted, however hard that labor. For though he knew not why, anticipation of a strange and dreadful sort murmured and sang in his blood, seeming to have kindled with the rising of the sun.
Thus did the long hours pass, and with them the plains: in the distance and growing ever larger, gentle, green-clad hills rose up, casting stark shadows upon the flat lands. The Orcs' trail seemed to curve about in order to pass right before their feet, then cut sharply back to the north for the forest eaves which showed now as a dark line upon the horizon.
And at intervals along the path, there were bodies: Orcs fallen in their tracks with goose-feathered arrows protruding from their backs.
"I knew not that the horse lords had bowmen," Gimli muttered, panting.
"Archery is an art among them, but on the field, the Rohirrim prefer their lances," Aragorn replied, squatting beside the body of a slain Orc as he gazed intently at the marks upon the ground. "Alas, I fear that if the riders did not bring this pack to heel, then there is no chance that we shall! We are more than a day behind them." He rose silently, glancing north after the trail ere he turned to the down at whose base they stood. "Come, let us go up and see what may be seen."
Single file as ever, Man, Elf and Dwarf climbed wearily to the crown of the hill. To Gimli's eyes, Legolas seemed unchanged from the day before: distant and pained, and he showed none of his usual enthusiasm for the prospect of climbing up to the heights. Indeed, he fairly trudged, if such a word could be used of an Elf. When at last they stood wearily at the top of the hill, they gazed out over the wide lands of Rohan, following the Orc trail as it ran north to the forest. And as they gazed, Gimli became aware that there were small figures moving upon it.
"Aragorn!" He pointed downward, and received a thoughtful nod in response.
"Riders," the Ranger said laconically. "A large company, and one that shall perhaps give us news of our quarry."
"Is that all that they shall give us?" the Dwarf asked, feeling at the curved edge of his double-bladed axe. Not that Gimli knew much of the Men of Rohan, but in principle he distrusted a people who worked so closely with such willful and dangerous beasts as horses.
"If we are careful, we shall have little to fear," the Ranger responded. "Well, we should not wait here in any case. Come, then!" And with that, they left the hill, though Gimli had to touch Legolas's arm and tug gently to rouse the Elf from his seeming-stupor. With a shake of his fair head and a slight frown, the Elf trailed along after Gimli, silent and grim. When they reached the foot of the hill, the three companions paused and on unspoken agreement, they settled themselves upon the grass, more than willing to rest from their day's labors.
"You are certain that these horse lords can be trusted?" Gimli asked after an uncomfortable few minutes of dead silence. "Did not Gandalf report that they pay the Dark Lord with horses?"
"Gandalf repeated only the rumor that Gwaihir had heard," Aragorn corrected. "And I doubt not that it is just that: a rumor, and an ill one. Boromir thought it nonsense, and I believe him, for I have spent some years among them. There are few things that the Rohirrim would less willingly part with than their steeds, even their lives. A fierce people, and a stubborn one, but honorable—I should think, Gimli, that a Dwarf would grow swiftly to love them."
"Hmmph!" the Dwarf grunted, but he nodded thoughtfully after a moment. "But will they learn to love a Dwarf? And what of Elves?"
"If they are wise, they shall leave us be," Legolas spoke suddenly, startling both his companions. "One does not touch the darkness!"
"What mean you by that?" Gimli asked, frowning, and to judge by Aragorn's intent gaze, he was not alone in his wonderment. But the Elf blinked and shook his head once more, seeming to emerge somewhat from his shell, and a look of muddled confusion crossed his face once again, as though he knew not what he had said. "Legolas?"
Turning his head to gaze at the Dwarf, the Prince of Mirkwood sighed softly. "Yes?"
"You… naught," Gimli replied heavily, dropping the subject. "It was but an ill-timed question, pay it no mind." Then, seeking desperately to prevent a retreat into that staring silence, he asked instead and quickly, "What think you of the Rohirrim, or have Thranduil's folk had any dealings with them?"
"Once, some time ago," Legolas replied, softly. "There was battle upon Calenardhon, and things went ill for Gondor. But when the Éorlingas came, the Elves of Mirkwood helped to drive the invaders from the plains."
"That was long ago indeed, my friend," Aragorn said, and seeing Gimli's skeptical look, added, "Cirion was the twelfth steward when the Éorlingas first came to our aid, and afterward, by their oaths, was Rohan created out of Gondor. Boromir's father, Denethor, is the twenty-sixth in the direct line of descent."
"Long ago indeed!" Gimli muttered, and Legolas gave a slight smile, though his eyes were distant.
"Not so very long, for I remember it," he said.
"And so also would Daín's grandfather, yet we say not that that was a short while ago, for all that it is within four generations!" Gimli retorted.
"Hush! Listen!" Aragorn interjected, and the two fell silent. For a time, the Dwarf strained his ears, but soon enough, the muted thunder of approaching cavalry came even to him. Legolas for once seemed quite intent, and the Dwarf wondered at that.
Does he, too, distrust them in spite of Aragorn's reassurances? If so, at least he has still a care for his life! That might be a good sign, but Gimli had little attention to spare for the Elf, focused as he was upon the figures that swept over the plain, following the Orc trail south. Despite his absolute faith in their guide, he felt his muscles tense as that company bore down upon them, and he darted a surreptitious glance at Aragorn. Of the three of them, he alone seemed unconcerned for their safety, though there was in his keen eyes a sharp glitter that bespoke a fine-honed focus.
And well he might need it! In a blur of motion and sound, the Riders of Rohan flew by, silver and grey, gold and green as the sun glinted off of hair and hauberk, and glossy grey steeds. The thought of all of those trampling hooves did nothing to ease the Dwarf's tension, but he held his peace and his place, 'til of a sudden Aragorn stood and called out in a strange tongue to the last of the riders.
Cries floated back, rippling up that line to the head, and with a startling suddenness, the entire formation bent, swinging back about to surround the three companions in a moving circle of lances and iron-shod hooves. At last, the war-horses, obedient to their masters' command, halted, and Elf and Dwarf sat ill at ease before the lance points of the Rohirrim, watching as one of the riders detached himself from the press.
Tall he was, and from the crest of his helm flowed a white horse tail. Blue eyes the color of an autumn sky glinted as he considered the strangers, and his hair hung in two long braids down his back. After a moment, he spoke, using the same tongue that Aragorn had at first, but then quickly switching to Westron:
"Who are you, who walk in Rohan without the king's leave?"
"Strider I am called," said Aragorn. "Beside me are Gimli the Dwarf, Gloín's son, from the far kingdom of Erebor; and Legolas, prince of the elven realm of Mirkwood. And we walk without the king's leave, for we knew not that it was needed. But who asks?"
"Then you are late come to Rohan," the rider replied, fixing his hard stare upon the Ranger. "This past six-month have we required all to present themselves at Edoras for judgment. As for my name, I am Éomer, son of Éomund, and stand as the Third Marshal of the Mark. But whence came you, and how is it that you appear thus, seemingly from the earth? For we did not mark you as we rode, and I would have sworn an oath that naught that goes upon our fields could escape a Rider's attention."
"From the North are we come, and you marked us not for we go with the favor of the Lady of the Golden Woods." At that, murmurs sprang up, and Gimli stiffened, eyes darting about as he picked up the fear and ill-feeling contained in those whispered words. Beside him, Legolas seemed to recoil, but otherwise neither spoke nor moved.
Whether Éomer marked such reactions, Gimli did not know, but after a moment's consideration, the rider tossed his spear to a comrade and leapt down from his perch.
Drawing his sword, he advanced 'til Aragorn stood within easy reach. The Ranger did not flinch, nor move a muscle, only gazed back with equanimity, and even Gimli sensed the contest of their wills. But it was brief, and seemed born of wary curiosity rather than of animosity, and so the Dwarf remained still, waiting. At last, Éomer removed his helm, tucking it beneath one arm, and Gimli frowned thoughtfully, for the Third Marshal was younger than he had thought, now that he could see his face clearly.
"The Lady of the Golden Woods? So she exists in truth and not only in fables! Strange are the tales of that place… and strange, too, are your words and bearing, 'Strider,' for such a name is not meant for such a man, not if I be any judge of character." He bent his gaze upon the other, searchingly, then demanded: "How come you to associate yourself with the net-weavers and sorcerers of Dwimordene?" At that, Gimli felt a growl rise within him, hearing the suspicious note in the other's voice as he spoke of the Lady Galadriel and her folk.
But Aragorn answered calmly, "That is a long tale, but for your peace of mind, we mean no harm to any of Rohan's folk or beasts. We come rather in pursuit of a common foe: the Orcs whose trail you return upon took captive two of my friends, and we do but seek redress, and the return of those whom we love."
"That company was eighty strong," Éomer said, with a shake of his head. "They would not have feared so few, and you would have died ere ever you set eyes upon your friends—and that if you were fortunate! But we have slain the Orcs, and among them there are no others to be seen." That last was uttered in a harder tone of voice, and the Marshal's eyes narrowed. "Unless they are wizards themselves, then I must doubt your tale. Or perhaps there is more witchery at work? Come, tell me truly who you are, and whom you serve!"
"Isildur's Heir speaks no lies, Third Marshal," said Aragorn softly, and an excited, incredulous buzz of whispers sprang up instantly at his words. But he continued as if oblivious to them, speaking without ever taking his eyes from Éomer's face. And as he spoke, it seemed almost as if his voice cast a spell over the men, for they fell utterly silent as his voice gained in intensity and power. Elf and Dwarf stared up at their friend in wonder, for to them it seemed almost as if they had never known Aragorn before, so great was the change in him.
"Aragorn, son of Arathorn of the House of Elendil am I! I serve no man, but the servants of Sauron I pursue into whatever land they may go." With a flash, Andúril appeared in his hand, and bright gleamed that blade, as the Ranger continued, "Narsil was this blade called of old, and with the ending of this age, it has been reforged, as was foretold in ancient times. Now you are answered, Éomer, Marshal of the Riddermark, so declare yourself swiftly: where do you stand? At my side against orcish depredations, or will you stand against those who are Rohan's friends, and so serve the Enemy's purposes?"
There was a profound silence as all struggled to come to grips with these words, and no few looks cast wonderingly Êomer's way for the challenge in them, but Legolas the Elf caught his breath as he gazed at Aragorn. Almost elvish seemed Arathorn's son in that moment, and no part the rough and worried Ranger; indeed, to the Elf, caught within the snare of a shadow he could not escape, a clear light seemed to radiate from the other, if only briefly ere that fire was hidden once more.
Éomer, for his part, stood very still, as one who feels himself poised on a precipice and knows not yet which way to incline. But under the pressure of Aragorn's bright gaze, the Third Marshal bowed his head, stepping back almost involuntarily. As if that movement had broken the spell, another bout of murmurs erupted, all in a flurry of disbelieving, awe-struck Rohirric that neither Gimli nor Legolas could fathom. Their companion said naught, and if he understood the confused mass of voices, he did not let it show, remaining focused upon Éomer. At length, the Marshal held up a hand for silence, and spoke a few sharp words to his men, who ceased to speak quite suddenly.
"Strange words, my lord, but no stranger than others that I have heard of late," he said into the silence. The Man of Rohan bent his clear eyes upon Aragorn once more, then darted a swift glance at Gimli and Legolas ere he spoke once more, rapidly and sharply, in his own tongue, addressing the rider to whom he had given his spear. The man nodded, though he cast dark looks at Elf and Dwarf, and a doubtful one at Aragorn ere he and the others retired some four horse-lengths to sit upon the path.
Turning back to the companions, the Marshal jammed his sword, point first, into the earth and set the helm over the pommel. "Some things I would not speak of before my men," said he. "And though I would trust you, Aragorn, there are still many dark questions to be asked. Chief among them would be whence comes the horn that you bear?"
"You know Boromir of Minas Tirith, I see," Aragorn replied.
"I know of him, and I have seen him before," Éomer responded grimly. "And I know the history of that horn, so I ask again: how came you by it?" And Gimli, hearing the doubt in the other's voice, bristled on his friend's behalf.
"Not through murder, as you suspect," the Ranger replied with a tight smile. "But you guess correctly that Boromir is no more. The Orcs whom you have lately battled slew him beneath Tol Brandir."
Éomer sucked in a hissing breath at that and shook his fair head. "Ill news indeed! And I fear that those of Minas Tirith will grieve to receive it. Yet if the heir of Denethor traveled with you, then how came you to escape the Orcs?"
"As I said, the Orcs took captive two of our friends, and that seemed to be their objective for they broke away once they had them in hand. Boromir it was who bought our lives by destroying the archers, leaving us free to follow once the remaining Orcs were dealt with."
"Why should the Orcs wish to take two members of your party and leave the rest alive?"
"Now you touch upon matters that I may not speak of here, for there is no time to explain them," Aragorn replied.
At which, Éomer shook his head and grimaced, sighing heavily. "And again, I would believe you, for there is in your voice and face that which bespeaks honesty. But I may not break the law on such faith as is built upon ten minutes' acquaintance. If you will not come with me now, then it is the sword and that I would not see!"
"Nor would I," Aragorn responded. "But I may not abandon my quest while the slightest hope remains for our friends."
"But your hope has failed, for as I said, there were none but Orcs among the slain!"
"None that your eyes could see, for our friends wear the raiment of Lórien, even as we do. If you missed us upon the plains, beneath a bright sun, it is unlikely that you would have seen either of my friends under the dark eaves of Fangorn, were they in fact present. And that at least remains to be discovered."
"Sorcery again," the Marshal muttered. "It casts all into doubt once more!" He sighed. "I am sorry, Aragorn, for truly, I would trust you! But I am not my own master, for I serve Théoden King, and the law of the land requires me to take all strangers with me to Edoras."
"Then we are at an impasse, for I may not abandon my quest until it is proved quite fruitless."
"And I may not permit you to go free!"
"Stubborn indeed!" Gimli muttered, attracting a puzzled, somewhat suspicious look from Éomer. Quirking a heavy brow, the Dwarf demanded, "Is there indeed aught that would convince you to trust us?"
"I can think of nothing, short of your presence in Edoras."
"Then you shall have it!" As one, Aragorn, Gimli, and Éomer turned to stare at Legolas, who had risen and spoke at last. The Elf's glance darted swiftly from Gimli's face to Aragorn's, and went thence to settle upon Éomer. "If you were to have a hostage as a pledge of our conduct, would that be enough?"
"Legolas, are you daft!?" Gimli hissed, astonished and alarmed by this unexpected turn. Aragorn said naught, but gazed hard at the Elf.
"We tread the path of necessity," the elven prince replied simply, without looking away from the Marshal. "Come, Éomer of Rohan, what say you? Would my presence be sufficient to convince your king of our good faith?"
"It may… in any case, it would convince me. And if the king shares not my opinion, still, Aragorn and Gimli may have time enough to satisfy themselves that indeed their quest is finished." The Marshal glanced at Aragorn, seeming to ask what his thoughts were in this matter.
But before Aragorn could speak his mind, Gimli rounded fiercely on the Ranger and demanded, "Say not that you agree with this–this madness!"
"The Rohirrim have not the habit of mistreating those who stay beneath their roofs," Éomer interjected with some asperity. "It is in your hands to better or worsen his fate."
"And what mean you by that?" Gimli snapped, as Éomer laid his hand upon the hilts of his sword, seeming to suggest that the Dwarf would do well to say no further. At the same time, Legolas laid a hand upon his friend's shoulder, gripping hard in warning.
"Peace, Gimli!" the Elf said softly. "What choice have we? And though you have been careful to say nothing in the days since Boromir's death, I know well that I am of little use to you as I am. You shall not miss me, and at least thus I shall serve some purpose other than to slow you and give you cause to worry at night. Even when you believe me to be asleep!" the Elf said, which caused Gimli to dart a furtive, somewhat embarrassed glance at Aragorn, who spread his hands slightly as if to acknowledge that he, too, had been fooled. Elf and Dwarf stood gazing at each other, and Gimli's dark eyes were black with concern.
But Legolas only smiled slightly and shook his head, seeming to achieve a measure of much needed peace with that gesture and decision.
With a final squeeze, the Elf let fall his hand from Gimli's shoulder and stepped to one side, joining Éomer. "Good hunting!" he wished him, and then, turning to Aragorn, added, "Have an eye on the Dwarf. I fear that he may hurt himself!"
"You—!" Gimli managed that much ere words failed him, and it helped not at all that both Éomer and Aragorn were all too clearly amused by his reaction.
"Come to Edoras as soon as you may," Éomer said, addressing first the Ranger and then his irate dwarven companion. "And if I cannot of myself condone it, at least I may speed your journey, for we have spare horses. Alas! Our victory was not without cost!"
"I am no rider," Gimli growled, and graciously forbore to add that even were he, he would rather have shaved his beard than accept a horse from Rohan when it held Legolas captive. Even if the mad Elf is agreeable to this scheme!
"Then you shall ride behind me," Aragorn replied firmly, ending the matter. "If nothing else, Gimli, a speedier journey will see Legolas released sooner." Which logic was difficult, if not impossible, to refute, but the Dwarf did not have to like it. Nevertheless, when Éomer had a horse, Hasufel, brought to them, he but glowered as Aragorn swung easily up into the saddle, ere Gimli grudgingly allowed himself be boosted onto the horse behind him.
"Fare well for a time, then," Éomer said, raising a hand in farewell. "May you find what you seek!"
"You have my thanks, Éomer," Aragorn replied. "Until Edoras!" At a word from the Ranger, the horse turned from the riders and sped away, carrying Ranger and Dwarf with him. Turning back, Gimli was astonished to see how swiftly the beast ran, for soon he could not even make out Legolas standing at Éomer's side.
If only it will run so fast on the return journey, I may yet grow to like horses. Or at least a horse! the Dwarf thought, gritting his teeth as he clung to Aragorn's waist.
The afternoon passed and the miles fell away, and as the sun began to set, the forest eaves loomed tall and darkly forbidding before them. Aragorn spurred Hasufel on over a low rise, and the horse snorted, tossing its head as the scent of burnt wood and flesh filled the air.
As they broke through the brush and into a clearing, the Ranger brought his mount to a halt, guiding the horse by subtle pressure of his knees to turn round so he could get a clear look at the surrounding space. Smoke rose still from the ashes that lay cooling upon the earth, and grim weapons were piled carefully upon the ground. The last rays of the sun shone dully through gaps in the leafy canopy, and Gimli, who was at home in the deep and closed places of the earth, felt almost claustrophobically aware of the trees that grew close-pressed all about them. Indeed, they seemed to bend inward, as if to trap the brash mortals, and the Dwarf shuddered. Aragorn murmured something in Sindarin that sounded for all the world like a prayer, and shook his dark head as he dismounted, warily surveying the woods.
An owl cried out mournfully as the sun set, and then took to wing, a shadow streaking through the dimly defined branches. All about them, the harsh caws of the crows were heard, and the air was laden with the smell of battle and death.
Thus did Fangorn Forest welcome its guests, and it was with uneasy hearts that Aragorn and Gimli settled themselves for a night beneath the trees.
Author's Notes:
* Ranach khim, Legolas?: Do you still wander, Legolas?
**cuiniant: 'life-bridge'. Trying to suggest the idea of body and soul being held together so as to support life.
I get my Sindarin from Ardalambion (put that into yahoo's search engine): good stuff, even if I doubt I'm doing this properly, even with such short sentences and words.
This is a work of fan fiction, written because the author has an abiding love for the works of J R R Tolkien. The characters, settings, places, and languages used in this work are the property of the Tolkien Estate, Tolkien Enterprises, and possibly New Line Cinema, except for certain original characters who belong to the author of the said work. The author will not receive any money or other remuneration for presenting the work on this archive site. The work is the intellectual property of the author, is available solely for the enjoyment of Henneth Annûn Story Archive readers, and may not be copied or redistributed by any means without the explicit written consent of the author.


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Germany's Carina Vogt won the first women's ski jumping gold medal in the event's Olympic debut in Sochi on Tuesday.
Austria's Daniela Iraschko-Stolz won silver and France's Coline Mattel took home bronze.
Japan's Sara Takanashi, 17, and American Sarah Hendrickson, 19, who had been viewed as medal favorites coming into the event, finished fourth and 21st in the event.
The other Americans in the event, Jessica Jerome and Lindsey Van, finished 10th and 15th, respectively.
Hendrickson hadn't jumped competitively before Sochi since suffering a knee injury in August. With her knee still hampering her, she qualified for the finals, but her final jump of 91.5 meters and a score of 217.6 wasn't enough.
Besides the the ligaments in her knee, Takanashi figured to be Hendrickson's biggest obstacle, since she has dominated the 2013-14 World Cup season in Hendrickson's absence, winning 10 of 13 events going into the Olympics.
While neither Takanashi nor Hendrickson won medals on Tuesday, the two have traded spots atop the world of women's ski jumping over the past few years. Hendrickson won the 2011-12 season World Cup title and beat out Takanashi for the 2013 world championship. However, she lost the 2012-13 World Cup title to her Japanese rival.

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OT- I've got a surgery date!
After patiently waiting for everything to fall into place, I've finally received a surgery date for my double hip transplant! It's Nov. 5th, on a Monday. I'm so excited! Thank you all for your prayers and concern!
Thanks everybody! The day after I posted this, the doctor pushes my date back to Nov 26th. He wants 2 units of my blood before I go into surgery, and the American Red Cross wants 30 days before surgery to receive it. That's fine, I've learned to roll with it! Gives me a little more time before the first hard frost to slowly finish up my gardening! I am almost done! :)
Kathy, I know quite a few good orthopaedic surgeons in the Raleigh area. I was the coordinator for a great Raleigh ortho team who volunteered at our hospital (Sacred Heart Hospital) in the north of Haiti in February 2010 in the aftermath of the earthquake. The surgeons were excellent, skilled, caring and compassionate. Wouldn't it be a wonderful coincidence of one of them is your surgeon. I hope all goes extremely well for you this week.
Carol in Jacksonville
Thanks everyone! I'm having my surgery by Dr Suprock in Huntersville, which is north of Charlotte. He's the chief of surgeons in Lake Norman Medical Center and has one numerous awards for the most compassionate doctor of the year and others. He's at ease and recommended doing both hips at once- about 2 1/2 hours in surgery. Recovery time will be approx. 6 weeks, and off the walker or cane in just 2 weeks. They all say that I'm in more pain now than when I'll be when I come out of surgery. I'm so looking forward to this! :)
Good to hear that your surgery is scheduled. Wish the best recovery for you .
When I was in a rehab center after my knee replacement this spring most of the other patients were older ladies recovering from hip replacement. They were all in wheelchairs and I was using a walker so I was being helpful moving them here and there. One group told me I shouldn't be helping them as I was worse off than they were. I thought their being less mobile made them worse off but their pain was less and their recovery expected to be faster.
Good luck tomorrow Kathy and I pray for those skilled hands of your surgeon tomorrow as well.
I too have a date, mine is 5 weeks after yours. I wish I had your recovery time but my surgeon says it will take a year for me because I have pressure on my spinal cord too and you just don't bounce back from that as quickly he said.
Thank you Ruth- my surgery has been rescheduled for the 26th of this month. My surgeon decided to have me donate 2 units of blood for my surgery. I'm going in today to donate my 2nd unit. Ruth, I will be praying for your surgery when you go in.
By the way- I completely amazed myself yesterday! I had received so many hostas in trade for left over brugs from my web store. I set out to revamp a bare spot in my hosta garden. It was an area approx. 10" x 8". I managed to shovel 2 loads of fluffy dry composted stable manure into my little wagon attached to my garden tractor, before my husband saw me. I thought he was going to be upset with me, (since I can hardly walk) but instead, he totally finished shoveling the huge pile into the wagon, and dumped the loads quickly into my new bed! He's such a tremendous man! I didn't want to bother him, because he was in the middle of remolding the garage. I try to be as independent as I can, despite my handicap. Today is a cool clear day, and I hope to plant the rest of those hostas in my beds before the winter arrives. Next year, my shade gardens will be beautiful! :)
I donated for my own surgery just the once and felt so yucky I never did the second unit. I know I had to have 4 units with my last back surgery, I am hoping it wont be necessary this time.
We can rehab together!
Thank you again my friends! I've been a little out of sorts lately as I'm in much more pain and am having greater difficulty hobbling around. I'm at the point where there's more gardening for me at this point! This undoubtedly has been the most difficult physical trial I've ever had to endure. (so far) The other day I saw a crippled man about my age. He had Cerebral Palsy and was limping around almost as badly as I was. It suddenly dawned on me that I was going to be better soon. By a greater contrast, unless he had a miracle, he most certainly will always have to deal with his disability. It made me extremely grateful to God, but at the same time, so very sad for him! My husband is so amazed with me. He says I'm doing so well through this. But my hope is in the Lord. He has been my constant strength and comfort each day! He's given me such extraordinary patience. He's instructed me and guided me through all the medical forms, so many numerous phone calls, tests, delays and all of those annoying constant changes. He's made it all possible! We don't have health insurance and didn't know which way to turn, but He worked out every minute detail! I only have to pay a fraction of the bill now! Thank God!!! Also, I think that in my mind, I don't accept the fact that I'm disabled. I'm thinking that I just move very slowly, and am in a lot of pain!!! :) My husband is going grocery shopping for Thanksgiving, and my daughter Rachel is cooking the dinner. A girl can get used to this!!! Ruth, my prayers go up for you. My prayer is that the Dear and Glorious Physician will guide your surgeons' hands and do a marvelous thing for you- even a greater thing than what's expected! Hang in there girl! Hope everyone has a wonderful time with family and friends around the table this Thanksgiving, and that we all remember to thank the One who gives us all things richly to enjoy!
Kasha, hang in there. I just started therapy from my surgery on Nov 6th yesterday. I go again today. It will be months before I can move my shoulder, but at least I can type if I move my arm to the computer with my other arm. Before I had my knee replacement I remember going to the grocery store and staying in the truck while my husband shopped. Once you have the knee replacments, the quality of your life will change. It changed my life, I could dance, run and ride a bike again. I did my own therapy by standing behind the couch, and raising my leg as far as it would go up. I also used the bicycle equipment that USAA put in their break area. It was slow progress, but after a few months, of these simple exercise I could do things for myself. You will never regret having this done. The first 2 weeks, you might wonder why in the world you did it, but then it just gets better and better. Barbra
kasha77: Don't blame you for being out of sorts lately with all the preparations you've been having to do pre-surgery. That encounter with the gentleman who has Cerebral Palsy was beautiful but bittersweet as well. Yes, you're in pain now but soon you'll be healed - that poor man, outside of a miracle, will most likely be dealing with his ailment for the rest of his life. It's an intense realization but none the less a sobering one. This definitely gives me pause for thought whenever I'm tempted to complain about my aches & pains from my scoliosis & TMD. I think every human being needs those gentle reminders now & then (thx for the reality check). It's a blessing to be able to have God's peace throughout this season in your life ;). God is using you to encourage & comfort others by your example & by the encouragement & comfort He has blessed you with :). PTL for working things out for you my friend! SO happy to hear this! Sounds like you'll be having a wonderful Thanksgiving Kathy surrounded by family & love :)(:. All His blessings to you & yours - that goes for everyone here. You're such wonderful folks who have really helped me learn what I needed & patiently guided me through tending for my Brugs & Plumies, & it helps to share laughs along the way. Ruth_ann, praying the same for you as kasha77!
MissMudPuppy, I just hired somone to bring in my plumeria and brugmansia plants inside for the winter, it will cost me $100 but worth every penny. Today had my first therapy session. I am in tremendous pain. She told me three months before I can do anything. No Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, no Christmas decorations or Village. I am devistated. Barbra
honeybunny2: $100 is worth the peace of mind knowing your plants will be safe. My Plumies are still putting out leaves & clawing like crazy but the Brugs have finally had enough & are starting to go into dormancy. They're still trying to put out leaves but they just don't have the light/heat/energy to complete the task & I usually find handfuls of leaves on the floor by the end of the day. Only a few more clusters & they should be done for the season. Mine are upstairs in my room where my little toy poodle can't get to them & "tag" them lol.
So sorry to hear you're in such pain dear soul :(. I can sympathize with you Barbra, it's going to be very difficult to have to adjust your routine for the next 3 months, especially with all the holidays (or holi-"daze" as I like to put it) coming up - but no less vital because the most important thing right now is you concentrating on doing whatever it takes for you to get better & stronger day by day. Having to sit on the sidelines for these next 3 months is going to be very trying & at times depressing, but sometimes we really do need to rest & let others take over for us for awhile. Will be keeping you in prayer too Barbra! Feel better & get stronger hun! ((hugs))
I'm only sore because it was my first day, and I was upset because I have to go to therpy 3 times a week for the next 3 months. I have been using ice packs, and heat all morning and feel much better. My husband said he is going to hire my son to put up my christmas decorations, God always leaves a window open. I am sorry I posted something negative, but I was so down, today I am back up there and looking forward to March. Heck by then I will be ready to bring out my plants back outside. Barbra
No need to apologize, totally understandable :). Glad to hear the heat & ice packs are helping you feel better :D. That's what's important. Very sweet of your husband to hire your son to help with the Christmas decorations. Feel better!
~ Angharand
Barbra- when did you have your surgery on your shoulder? I'm so sorry that you're in so much pain and so slow to recover :( I was going to ask my surgeon about fixing my shoulder, but now after hearing about yours, I guess I'll wait! I'm not having my knees done, but both hips. The doctor said it's not as complicated as knee replacements, and the recovery time is much shorter, around 6 weeks or so. They think I'll recover fast 'cuz they say I'm such a fighter. They said they'll get me up a day after surgery to help facilitate quicker healing. Hopefully it will all go well. I'm so sad to hear that you have to pay someone to help you bring in all of your plants! If I lived nearby and was able, I'd do it for you for nothing! but I totally understand the urgency in getting your babies in before the frost. Once you start feeling better, you'll enjoy gardening again. It won't be long! Feel free to email me if you need someone to talk to. We can encourage each other!
Kasha, my neighbor has just one hip replacement, he was up the next day, Jack is in his 80's. I know you will do just great. It never slowed him down a bit, he was driving his truck in 2 weeks, but he only had one done. I think having 2 done will take longer. I had my surgery on Nov 6th, an old broken collar bone, caused my rotator cuff to tear. They repaired both. I had no idea that the recovery was going to take so long. I thought recovery would be like my broken hip and knee replacement. What day are you going to have your hip surgery? I will be praying for you. Barbra
Dear Kathy, Barbra, Ruth and MissMudPuppy (MMP is your name Angharand?), praying you four will soon be freed from pain.
Not sure if Ruth's back surgery occurred per her remark of it being five days after Kathy's original? date, but if so, Ruth may your recovery year be less than what doctor's think.
Kathy, hang in there as soon you will be as good as new and ready to continue doing what you love best.
Barbra, sorry you have been having a heck of a time with pain from that shoulder/collar surgery. Therapy is a pain in the butt, but it does help.
MMP, you write such beautiful and encouraging posts to those in pain in spite of your scoliosis & TMD. May you be blessed!
eloise_ca: Angharand is my Celtic name. I never use my English name online for personal issues. If it's easier, everyone can call me MMP as Kathy does ;).
eloise_ca & kasha77: a humble thank you for such kind words. Overjoyed to hear I've been able to offer some small measure of comfort & encouragement to you. Praise the Lord. In answer to your question Kathy, I did consider being an author but the Lord knew I'd be far more efficient in my efforts by being more readily available via an online presence on whichever site I'm led to comment. Whenever I read someone is experiencing pain, anguish, suffering, etc, regardless whether I know them or not, I'm naturally led to try & offer whatever consolation is laid upon my heart. It's a driving force within me, especially now after having gone through hurricane Sandy & experiencing first hand my fellow Long Islanders, as well as others, suffering. All I want to do is help others as our Lord has helped me. The reward I seek will be at His throne ;).
Only a few more days kasha77 & you begin your road to healing & recovery!
You're both blessings to me! Feel free to email me anytime about anything. Humblest of gratitude & may our Lord continue to bless & keep you & yours. ((((hugs)))
Today my thoughts and prayers are with you Kasha. Wishing you a speedy recovery. You will be so thankful this spring that you had the surgery. MMP, thank you for your words of encouragement. Eloise I hope you are doing ok, I do not post as much as I use to, but I do check in every now and then just to see how everyone is doing. Barbra
Thank you everyone! I'm home now! Came home yesterday! :) My surgery went fine! It only took 2 hours. :) My doctor said he didn't need the 2 units of blood that I gave for the surgery. He said that I'm now perfectly aligned. So I got home yesterday, and am trying to adjust with a walker and a new and different pain and stiffness.The hydrocodone helps control pain nicely! My PT just left and I have exercises to do 3x a day. I'm a little weak here and there, but I'm improving already! God is good! Thank you all for praying for me! I'll keep in touch when I can!
Way to go Kasha. It is a good thing we know that the different 'post operative pain' is only temporary and has an end in site.
I had my pre-op Dr visit today and he says I am fit for surgery and that is to be done Dec 10th. Then I too will be in the land of rehab 3 months later. :)
Barbra- I'm still getting adjusted cuz I just got home yesterday. It takes time to be able to sit a little longer, and to get that anesthesia out of my system. So it's slow getting around, but every day I'm doing a little better. Especially my attitude! Yesterday I was a little down and frustrated cuz I had to depend on everyone to retrieve all the stuff I'd dropped, and feeding me, etc. I was expecting too much from my self! Now I'm settling in and just taking the time to heal up! Went for my first wheelchair walk up our country road before sunset. I love it! It was such a gift! :)
Glad the surgery went well and that you are home, Kasha. Nothing like being in one's own bed or chair. There is joy and comfort in letting go and letting others care for you now.
Don't let other people's stories of progress (or lack of) get you down. We all heal in different ways and amounts of time.
A helpful tool is an extended wand that picks items up, great for the dropped tissues or the shoe I just couldn't find. I got it years ago when I broke an ankle and have used it ever since. No more crawling under the desk to pick up that piece of paper that slipped away.
Good news for you, Ruth Ann. With my very minor back pain I empathize with your pain and pray the surgery will bring you relief.
Well, it's been a week today since my surgery and I'm improving slowly daily! My PT lady comes 3 times a week and is amazed at my progress. (thank the Lord for His answered prayers!)I grabbed my cane with my walker and headed outside today for my first walk outside. It was 72* and gorgeous! Got down the stairs slowly, and then used my walker to go about 50 feet total. That was enough for me, then a nap! Thank you for everyone's' concern, I'm on my way!! :)
Well my nurse and pt lady just left. I told them that I wasn't taking the narcotics that were prescribed me. I never do well with hydrocodone. It made me sick to my stomach, painful thrashing and restless body syndrome, bad nightmares, no appetite, constipated. I'm taking Tylenol and am doing so much better! Appetite is back, body is getting back to normal, and I now enjoy my exercises. I even spent 30 min doing light housework, although it raise my heart rate to 120! I'm up to a 10 min walk a day! The more I do the better I feel! I'm feeling stronger every day!
Just a quick update! It's been 5 weeks since my bilateral hip replacements. I'm walking without assistance of a walker or cane now. Still slight weakness, pain and limp in left leg, but nowhere anything like my suffering before surgery! I'm able to take the dog for short walks down the road now, and yesterday I drove for the first time! :) Still not back to work. Climbing stairs is still not easy, although I'm totally caring for my angels in the basement now by myself! My boss is chomping at the bit to have me back to be her nanny. No way am I ready for that yet! Maybe in the beginning of Feb! I also had laser eye surgery on both eyes last week to eliminate the chance of Glaucoma. Goodness, I'm the bionic woman! Hope everyone else is well! Hey Ruth- how are you recovering since your surgery? Haven't heard from you- hope all is well!
You are doing very well Kasha!
So am I I think, no pain in the legs when I stand any longer so I know the relief of which you speak. Now to get the nerves and muscles bach to normal that were pinched and atrophied by those bad discs. I have 2 more months before I can ditch the brace and start some serious rehab though.
Hi, Kathy
Just popped in after a very long time. So glad that you're
doing well after your surgery! Don't push yourself. I'm
still healing from double femur surgery from Jan/2011. As
you said "God IS good"! Please do take your time and let
your body heal. Those plants are going to help you a lot...
just look at them, though :):):) Seriously... I'm so glad
to hear that it all went well for you!!!
Hi Again-
thank you for the well wishes! Margaret, I'm so sorry it is taking you so long to recover. I'll pray that you'll be able to improve faster! Ruth- I'm so happy for you that your pain is diminished. I know the frustration of having dead weight of legs and little strength. Getting in and out of bed was the worst for me. Now I'm practically launching out of bed every morning! I'm praying that you'll regain your stability and strength soon. I'm glad your surgery was a success! Take care!
Barbra- that is wonderful! Yes, I am doing very well also! I have begun to work a bit in my garden in nicer weather. I blew leaves and mulched them and put them on other gardens, 3 loads! Tomorrow is supposed to be 50*. I hope to go out and putter! Thank you Eloise! :)
Kasha, that is wonderful news. I am so happy that you can already work in your yard. Gosh by spring you will be back at full force. I am actuallly thinking about getting some brugmansia cuttings and trying again. Mine never did well at the coast, but Albert's 2 are really doing well. I think its because I added turface to the soil, or maybe its just the time of year. They are in full flush right now. I think I might have been bitten by the brug bug. Spring hurry up and get here. Barbra
Kasha, that is wonderful news. I am so happy that you can already work in your yard. Gosh by spring you will be back at full force. I am actuallly thinking about getting some brugmansia cuttings and trying again. Mine never did well at the coast, but Albert's 2 are doing great. I think its because I added turface to the soil, or maybe its just the time of year. They are in full flush right now. I think I might have been bitten by the brug bug. Spring hurry up and get here. Barbra
Kasha, that is wonderful news. I am so happy that you can already work in your yard. Gosh by spring you will be back at full force. I am actuallly thinking about getting some brugmansia cuttings and trying again. Mine never did well at the coast, but Albert's 2 are doing great. I think its because I added turface to the soil, or maybe its just the time of year. They are in full flush right now. I think I might have been bitten by the brug bug. Spring hurry up and get here. Barbra
Kasha, that is wonderful news. I am so happy that you can already work in your yard. Gosh by spring you will be back at full force. I am actuallly thinking about getting some brugmansia cuttings and trying again. Mine never did well at the coast, but Albert's 2 are doing great. I think its because I added turface to the soil, or maybe its just the time of year. They are in full flush right now. I think I might have been bitten by the brug bug. Spring hurry up and get here. Barbra
Had my visit with my surgeon today. I told him I think I'm 70% back to normal, he said "I'd say about 50%! He doesn't want me to run (except if I need to get out of a bus' way!) no jumping, carrying heavy items. Can't go back to work til after March 15th. That's fine, I know I'm not up to chasing after 2 little ones yet!
My TWO CENTS again...but....keep thinking of how far
you've come from the first few days! Somedays, I'll admit
that I feel like having a pity party because I can't run or walk fast and I might never do so again. I'm walking, even-
though my bones aren't mended AND I can work in my
garden...thank God for Tramadol and His mercy right now.
You're a gardner , sooooo, I know that just having a little
ability to get outside will be lots of therapy for US!!! :):)
I'm starving to get out there and trim my paniculata hyd.
back and to move a few things around...(my hubby digging
the holes, of course).Girl, take your time and do it right. You
do not want anyone going back into those hips. Hope you
don;t mind the pep talk.
Just a month until spring!
I'm taking it slow and being a good patient, listening to my body. I can't do everything that I used to yet, but it's way better than using that cane, walker and wheelchair that are sitting in the corner!
I've taken up painting old furniture and am having a blast! I've learned how to make chalk paint and am creating my own wax stains and paint colors with tints and white paint, so fun! So far I've painted an old childs' ladder back chair -yellow, an old oak mirror, silver and gold, and my bathroom vanity, to match the mirror. I've also painted my heavy wooden microwave cabinet, white, for my daughter. I've started stripping an oak cedar chest in the garage. I also found 2 french country coffee tables for $20! I plan to paint them too. I'm also slowly clearing out my gardens from last years' dead grass. The soil is so deep and soft from all the years' of compost and horse manure. Little by little. My gardens went to weeds last year, but hopefully, by summer time, they will be beautiful again! Margaret, you are in my prayers for a full recovery. Keep smiling and praising God for how far you've come and you'll get there! I am so aware of His healing hand on me, I just marvel in His mercy and love!


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|Regions:Dover/Somersworth -Great Bay - Rochester - Southern Maine
|Exeter Greenland Portsmouth New Castle Newington Stratham Rye
Go Mobile: http://mobile.fosters.com
Physically fit: Body in the Works Challenge has dozens shedding pounds and strutting their stuff
Sunday, November 18, 2012
SOMERSWORTH — A grandfather, a hockey mom, and a breast cancer survivor were among a group of 25 individuals that strutted their stuff onstage during the final show of the Body in the Works Physique Challenge — a three month transformation program centered on eating healthy and exercising consistently.
One woman was told by her doctor she needed to lose 50 pounds and stop smoking or she would be at severe risk of developing diabetes. She later underwent gastric bypass surgery in 2007 and lost over 100 pounds in the initial year. Thanks to a new way of eating and an exercise program, she's currently at a healthy weight.
Another contestant was a breast cancer survivor and a former smoker who decided to take control of her life. In the past year she lost approximately 65 pounds — or 10 clothing sizes — by lifting weights and doing cardio.
"They're all winners," said Lexi Minogue, a friend of one of the participants. "They need to keep up the good work — they look amazing."
To learn more about the program visit the Works Family Health & Fitness Center's website at www.theworkshealthclub.com.


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Milwaukee, WI (SportsNetwork.com) - The Milwaukee Bucks have announced a major news conference for Wednesday regarding ownership of the franchise and reports have indicated that Herb Kohl is set to sell the team with the NBA's worst record.
According to ESPN, hedge-fund billionaires Marc Lasry and Wesley Edens are set to purchase the club from Kohl for $550 million.
Kohl had announced in December a search for additional investors. A condition of a potential sale would be the club remaining in Milwaukee.
According to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, Lasry is the CEO and co-founder of Avenue Capital Group and Edens is the cofounder of Fortress Investment Group LLC.
Kohl purchased the Bucks in 1985 from Jim Fitzgerald for $18 million. The former U.S. Senator from Wisconsin had detailed sale discussions with a group led by Michael Jordan in 2003, but decided to keep the franchise.
The Bucks entered the last day of the regular season with the NBA's worst record at 15-66.


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Segment and Digital Producer more
Jamil Smith is a segment and digital producer for "Melissa Harris-Perry," a political and cultural analysis program airing each Saturday and Sunday morning on MSNBC. Since the show's inception in Februrary 2012, he has served as an editor and writer for the show's online home, MHPshow.com, and manages all of the show's social media platforms while also producing on-air segments.
Contributor to Melissa Harris-Perry
Following Meredith Clark, Irin Carmon, Steve Benen


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|Publication Date
|McCain Meets With Veterans And Their Families To Discuss VA Allegations
|May 09, 2014
|New Mexico Man Sues Over Forced Colonoscopy During Drug Search
|November 08, 2013
|ACLU Class Action Suit Alleges Threats, Coercion By Border Patrol
|Megan Burke, Maureen Cavanaugh, Peggy Pico
|June 04, 2013
|Leonard Knight Makes A Visit To Salvation Mountain
|Angela Carone
|May 31, 2013
|Top Water Officials Meet In San Diego Over Drought-Stricken Colorado River
|Susan Murphy
|May 28, 2013
|Latinos Hardest Hit By Community College Class Shortages
|May 20, 2013
|Navy's Newest Squadron Puts Manned and Unmanned Aircraft Side-By-Side
|Tarryn Mento
|May 03, 2013
|High-Skilled Immigrants Aren't Optimistic About Reforms
|David Wagner
|May 01, 2013
|San Diego's International Trade Rebounds
|Erik Anderson
|April 30, 2013
|Drone Industry Boosters Pilot Controversial Local Growth Plan
|David Wagner
|April 02, 2013
|New Classes Target Students Who Struggle To Master English
|Kyla Calvert
|March 25, 2013
|More Meningitis Cases In SoCal May Be Linked To Tijuana Outbreak
|Susan Murphy
|March 22, 2013
|San Diego Leaders Tackle Immigration Reform
|Maureen Cavanaugh, Adrian Florido, Susan Murphy, Peggy Pico, Claire Trageser
|March 13, 2013
|Filner's Tijuana Office Still Not Open
|Katie Orr
|February 11, 2013
|Texas Mines California For Jobs
|Katie Orr
|February 05, 2013
|Janet Napolitano Visits San Diego To Discuss Border Security
|Susan Murphy
|February 04, 2013
|Antibiotics Without A Prescription Still Common In Tijuana
|Megan Burks
|February 01, 2013
|Do Coercion Claims In Border Drug Smuggling Cases Signal A New Trend?
|Marissa Cabrera, Maureen Cavanaugh, Patty Lane, Peggy Pico
|December 12, 2012
|Candy Sales Another Form of Human Trafficking
|Dwane Brown
|November 24, 2012
|How An American Nun Became A Lifeline Of Hope For Prisoners In Tijuana
|Megan Burke, Maureen Cavanaugh, Peggy Pico, Jill Replogle
|November 13, 2012
|Tijuana Battles Mexico's Highest Rate Of Tuberculosis
|Kenny Goldberg
|October 29, 2012
|Tijuana Innovadora 2012 To Showcase Region's Creativity, Innovation
|Maureen Cavanaugh, Patty Lane
|October 11, 2012
|Federal Regulators Give Reasons Behind San Diego Blackout, But Questions Remain
|Amita Sharma
|September 07, 2012
|Social Media Helping Spread Awareness Of Missing Tijuana Woman
|Diana Crofts-Pelayo
|September 07, 2012
|The Start Of A Steady Climb In Food Prices?
|Katie Euphrat, Jose Luis Jiménez, Jill Replogle
|August 22, 2012


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Drugs A - Z
Simethicone Oral dissolving film
It is used to decrease the discomfort caused by gas.
Generic Name: simethicone | Brand Name: Maalox
Brand Names: Mylaval, Phazyme-95, Gas-X Thin Strips Cinnamon, Gas-X Infant Drops, Gas-X Maximum Strength, Colicon, Infants' Gas Relief, Simethicone, Usp, Phazyme, Mi-Acid Gas Relief, See more brands »
What is this medicine?SIMETHICONE (sye METH i kone) is used to decrease the discomfort caused by gas.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- an unusual or allergic reaction to simethicone, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?Take this medicine by mouth. Allow the medicine to melt into your mouth before swallowing. Follow the directions on the label or those given to you by your doctor or health care professional. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?This does not apply. You will only use this medicine as needed for gas pain. Do not use double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?Interactions are not expected.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms get worse, or if you have severe pain, diarrhea, constipation, or blood in your stool. These could be signs of a more serious condition.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?There are no reported side effects of this medicine.
Where should I keep my medicine?Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Protect from moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
The Healthline Site, its content, such as text, graphics, images, search results, and other material contained on the Healthline Site ("Content"), its services, and any information or material posted on the Healthline Site by third parties are provided for informational purposes only. None of the foregoing is a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the Healthline Site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. Please read the Terms of Service for more information regarding use of the Healthline Site.
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Showing 4 rides leaving near Montreal leaving whenever.
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IPX Chassis
Injection molded Nylon plastic chassis with metal teeth.
Impact EVA
Specially designed foam displaces high-energy impacts and reduces heel bruises.
EVA foot-bed
3D molded foot-bed with ergonomic contours.
Reflex Liner
Seamless design, heat molded, and non intrusive back "tweak zone".
Zonal Lace System
Lacing system allows you to adjust lace tension.
TPU Support Structure
Support structure that flexes and supports.


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BBQ Sauce
Although there are a ton of bbq sauces available, I had been wanting to try making my own for a while and now was the perfect time as I had something in mind. As it turns out, making your own bbq is pretty easy and you probably have all of the ingredients that you need. Bbq sauce generally starts with a tomato base such as ketchup and adds something for sweetness, vinegar for a tanginess and some kind of heat. You can play around with the basic ingredients and you can add other ingredients to come up with whatever flavours you want. I stuck with a pretty simple bbq sauce for my first attempt and it turned out pretty good! It was a nice blend of tangy, sweet and spicy and it as full of flavour. I enjoyed the texture that the grated onion added and the smokiness that the chipotle chili powder and smoked paprika was really nice. Stay tuned to see what I use it in.
BBQ Sauce(makes 1 1/2 cups)
Printable Recipe
1 small onion (grated)
2 cloves garlic (grated)
1 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons dijon mustard
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (a vegetarian one for vegetarian)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked hot paprika
salt and pepper to taste
1. Mix everything.
Use in:
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich with Slaw
BBQ Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
BBQ Chicken with Blue Cheese Slaw Wraps
BBQ Roast Beef and Cheddar Sandwich
BBQ Chicken Pizza
BBQ Chicken Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing
BBQ Chicken and Peach Quesadillas
Slow Cooker Bacon Wrapped Apple BBQ Chicken
Crispy Baked BBQ Onion Rings
BBQ Ham, Bacon and Pineapple Quesadillas (aka BBQ Hawaiian Pizza Quesadillas)
Similar Recipes:
Roasted Apple BBQ Sauce
Roasted Strawberry BBQ Sauce
Gochujang Sauce (can be used as a Korean Style BBQ Sauce)


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Going pro on the fire lines
With flames roaring a short distance away, Chris Derrickson and other members of his summer wildland fire crew set their own blaze — a controlled back fire, designed to help tame the uncontrolled one.
Winds were erratic and the flames were uncomfortably close, Derrickson said, but he wasn't worried.
"I knew what to do," he said. "It wasn't scary. It was rewarding."
He'd had good training.
Derrickson, 18, had just finished his junior year at McMinnville High School, where he's in the Fire and Emergency Services pathway. He had studied fire science in theory and also had hands-on practice fighting fires.
One of about 20 career pathways at Mac High, Fire and Emergency Services introduces students to a variety of jobs in the field and gives them practical experience. When they graduate with a pathway endorsement — as Derrickson will next June — they have a jump start on a career, whether they plan to join the work force immediately or pursue additional studies.
For Derrickson, that pathway led directly to a job.
One of the speakers during the year was the owner of a wildland firefighting company in Nevada. After spending two days with the Mac High students, he announced he had two job openings for the summer. And Derrickson, who had already earned his Firefighter II qualifications, applied.
"I thought the work would be fun and it would get me in shape," he said. "And I'd earn money for college and a boat."
An avid fisherman, he had his eye on a drift boat so he could fish for steelhead and salmon on the Nestucca and other rivers. The boat is now in his driveway.
He'd started the firefighting pathway because it sounded interesting and fun, he said.
He also knew he'd like the teacher, Cindi Schultz, since he'd had a couple other classes with her. And he had a family history of firefighting, as his father fought fires with the National Guard.
When school ended in June, he said goodbye to his parents, Mike and Kathleen Derrickson. Then he drove to Ely, Nevada, where the firefighting company, Buscher Engines, is based.
The private company has two engines, each with a crew of three firefighters. It is on-call 24-7 to supplement the Bureau of Land Management crews fighting fires all over the huge Ely district.
The district stretches across 2 million acres in Nevada and Utah. It includes some timberland, but is mostly covered in juniper, pinion or sagebrush.
"It dries out quickly and torches pretty good," he said.
Much of the time, Derrickson said, "We waited for calls." Other times, they worked 14 days straight, depending on need.
He and the other crew members kept their gear in order and their engines clean so they could move out at a moment's notice. They might be called in to dig fire lines, look for hot spots or follow other crews with their engine, extinguishing flare-ups.
After each call, he said, they would return to the home station, clean up their gear and inspect their truck, usually washing it and changing the oil and air filter. Then they would be prepared for the next call.
"I kept my stuff in a large duffel," he said. "My fire clothes and fire equipment were in the truck already, so I could just grab and go."
They kept a supply of food and drinking water in the truck. Sometimes they were close enough to civilization to find food and water during breaks, but other times they needed the supplies from the truck.
"We'd walk out some days, six or eight miles to the fire," he said.
Derrickson said his normal gear for fighting fires included a long-sleeved Nomex fire-resistant shirt, with heavy gloves, Nomex pants and a hard hat. Add to that a backpack that might weigh 45 pounds.
"The equipment makes you sweat, but it keeps you cooler, too," he said, noting that the Nevada weather was usually very dry and in the 80s or 90s, although temperatures reached 108 at one point.
Whenever a call came in, Derrickson said he and other members of his crew would consult with their boss. Then they would get their gear and strap themselves into their engine.
At the BLM yard, they would check in and fill their truck's 750-gallon tank with water. Then they'd head for the fire scene.
One call took them on a six-hour drive to Utah, another on a five-hour drive to Las Vegas. The latter was for the Carpenter 1 fire, which charred 28,000 acres.
After the long drive, he said, he and his crew checked in at the fire camp and slept for a few hours.
Then they were assigned their first duty in what would stretch to 10 days of work — seeking out hot spots. Later, they would patrol for flare-ups, mop up after a hand crew and do cleanup and restoration tasks.
Before going out in the field, though, they attended one of the frequent briefings about weather and fire conditions,
Derrickson said the briefings are critical. "You need to know your surroundings, the atmospheric conditions, whether the fire is erratic," he said.
He said he saw firsthand the importance of an acronym he learned at Mac High: LACES. That stands for Lookouts, Awareness, Communication, Escape Routes, Safety Zones — all critical things for a firefighter to know.
"If we don't know those things, we shouldn't proceed," he said.
Derrickson used many of the other things he'd learned at Mac High while on the job, as well. But he also had a few experiences he hadn't been expecting, such as strapping on a five-gallon bladder of water and walking through a still-hot area, squirting hot spots.
"I wish we could see more of the physical side during class," he said.
He plans to mention this to his teacher. He's an aide in Schultz's class, so he'll also have a chance to tell younger students about his work as a wildland firefighter.
In addition to being an aide for Schultz, Derrickson has one more class to take for the firefighting pathway — fire protection, which covers fighting structure fires. He's already finished other related classes, including wildland firefighting, introduction to emergency services, search and rescue and forestry occupations.
Derrickson usually plays football, but he's taking a break this year, as he was working in Nevada when practice started. He plans to join the track team in the spring, and may play rugby, too.
He's also concentrating on his studies in preparation for college. He plans to go to Oregon State University to get a degree in fisheries.
A fan of fishing and hunting, he said he'd love to be a fishing guide in the winter and a firefighter in the summer.
He also wants to continue to work as a wildland firefighter during the summers while attending OSU. "I don't want to leave college in debt," he explained.
Starla Pointer, who is convinced everyone has an interesting story to tell, has been writing the weekly "Stopping By" column since 1996. She's always looking for suggestions. Contact her at 503-687-1263 or email@example.com.


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Crafters sell their wares at St. Mary Academy
Sunday, November 18, 2012
DOVER — A steady stream of shoppers filed in and out of Saint Mary Academy's gymnasium Saturday during the school's annual Holiday Craft Fair. "We do this every year to benefit the athletic department," said Dawn Duffy, head of the craft fair and whose husband, Dennis, is the athletic director at Saint Mary Academy. "We've been doing this for probably 20 years now," she estimated.


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I have noticed that fuelledby coffee is a Warren Zevon fan. I had this video of me playing one of his songs lying around, so there, you can have it.
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Acclaimed for their unabashedly danceable live performances, Passion Pit celebrated the release of their sophomore album Gossamer in 2012. The album features 12 new tracks that showcase band front man Michael Angelakos ever-expanding lyrical talents and bring to life his trademark irresistible beats. The band is currently on tour promoting the release of the album. Proceeds from the sale of the album purchased on Ninewest.com will be donated to CFDA's Fashion
Style Code: PASSIONPITCD


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Toyota Optimal Drive
Toyota Optimal Drive is an entire range of new engines, design innovations and transmissions that is bringing in a step-change in fuel economy and emissions across the Toyota range. Here are just a few of the new innovations you'll find in Toyota Optimal Drive.
Enhanced Performance, Lower CO2, Better Fuel Economy
Toyota Optimal Drive is designed to save you money, and reduce your carbon footprint. And the best bit? There's no compromise in performance.
Stop & Start
Specified with 1.33-litre VVT-i petrol Yaris, Auris and Urban Cruiser models, Stop & Start saves fuel and emissions in urban conditions by seamlessly stopping and restarting the engine at lights or in stationary traffic. This helps to boost combined fuel economy by up to 18 per cent.
New Engines
Reduced weight, lower internal friction, optimised valve control and greater rigidity are just a few of the improvements present in Toyota Optimal Drive engines. These innovations are applied differently across each model, but every engine offers a significant boost in terms of fuel economy and emissions, without sacrifice in power.
Improved Transmissions
The new 6-speed Manual transmission available with Yaris, Auris and Urban Cruiser is a showcase for Toyota Optimal Drive thinking. Its unique twin-shaft design makes changing gear easier and more satisfying, and the reduced size and number of components improves efficiency and torque capacity.
Gearshift Indicator
All Auris, Avensis and iQ models come equipped with gearshift timing indicators (manual transmission only), showing the optimum time for gear changes and in turn saving fuel and emissions.
Clean Green Cars
An independent authority on the eco-friendly automotive market compared the CO2 emissions of Toyota models to other car manufacturers and came to the conclusion that 'Toyota is clearly the best performing car company'.


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Written by Dave Panske Sunday, 25 May 2014 07:38
Seymour – May 25- Today is THE day. And what a perfect one it is going to be.
After the never ending winter, we are being treated to a beautiful weekend here in Northeastern Wisconsin. The first leg of the 2014 Summer Holiday Classic series at the Seymour Speedway will be the perfect stop on your holiday racing weekend. Racing starts at 5:30 PM.
Victory Sign is the title sponsor for the BIG program tonight. The 5 regular divisions, Budweiser IMCA Modifieds, Coors Light IMCA Stock Cars, Turbo Blue Street Stocks, IMCA Sport Mods and 4 Cylinders will be running a full program with the WDLMA Late Models making their first appearance of the season topping the night with a 30 lap main event. There is a total purse in excess of $25,000 up for grabs.
The pit area opens at 3 PM.
Sign in cut off is 4:30 for all divisions. The five weekly divisions will line up by regular point averages. Late Models will draw/re-draw.
Pit passes are $30 for all weekly drivers. Late Models $75. All others in the pit will be $30 for non members and $23 for members.
The grandstand will open at 4.
Special event pricing is
Adults $16.00
Students 13-18 and seniors 55 up $11.00
Kids 12 and under FREE with paid adult.
Racing starts at 5:30 PM…SHARP!!
Running order for tonight will be:
Budweiser IMCA Modifieds
Coors Light IMCA Stock Cars
WDLMA Late Models
IMCA Sport Mods
Turbo Blue Street Stocks
4 Cylinders
Running order is subject to change.
The Summer Holiday Classic series is the perfect way to spend your Holiday Sunday night. We appreciate you choosing to join us at the Seymour Speedway.
The Seymour Speedway is a featured member track of www.Racetext.net a website dedicated to bringing fans the best possible coverage of local short track racing.
Look forward to seeing you TONIGHT.


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This sleek and modern design is crafted from superior quality 14 karat white gold. This hammered finish is given a touch of sparkle with the addition of nine round diamonds, at approximately .09 carat total weight, which have been hand-matched for sparkle and brilliance.
Order now for delivery on or before
Wednesday, April 08, 2015
using FedEx 2nd Day.


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Currently Shopping For Parts and Gear for Your:
1981 Honda 900 Custom CB900C
BikeBandit.com offers the widest range of Shocks from all of the top leading brands at our best price guarantee.New aftermarket Shocks can help to improve the performance of your motorcycle or ATV, keeping your ride running in peak condition. BikeBandit.com offers a complete selection of Shocks at our best price guarantee. Finding the Shocks for your machine is easy at BikeBandit.com. Simply use the navigation below to select your machines make, year and model.BikeBandit.com is the Web's Largest Powersports Store with more than 8 million factory fresh motorcycle parts and accessories online, so of course we have the most up to date Shocks for you to choose from. Whether you're a recreational biker on the weekend, a serious motocross or dirt bike racer, or a seasonal ATV enthusiast we have the Shocks to help you get riding.We know when you order your Shocks you'll want them now, so BikeBandit.com has developed the best online real-time order tracking system in the powersports industry. You can keep track of every step of your order at BikeBandit.com and once it has been shipped, we provide package tracking information from UPS, FedEx or USPS so you know exactly when your Shocks will arrive.For the Guaranteed Best Price on Shocks, with the highest possible level of customer service, choose BikeBandit.com.


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Review: The New Encyclopaedia Britannica, Volume 18User Review - Stef - Goodreads
Alright, I haven't read the complete Britannica but looked up different facts in each book. It is a MUST HAVE. Definitely prefer books over the internet although the knowledge in the books isn't up to date. Read full review
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HOME NBA Golden State Warriors Gear Golden State Warriors Womens Golden State Warriors Womens Footwear (14 items) Product ID: 1314775
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You're a Warriors buff who loves everything about the incredible NBA team. To finish off your team apparel, you need some cute slip-on shoes to wear while you witness Golden State continue to make history! These Junkie shoes from Cuce Shoes are the final piece to your game day style. They feature an embroidered team logo with rhinestone accents, so your team stands out on your feet as much as it does on the court! Combine your chic fashion sense and your Warriors fanaticism with these spirited faux-leather slip-ons! Fit: Available in whole sizes only. If you wear a half size, please order a half size larger than your usual size.
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- Faux leather exterior
- Imported
- Officially licensed NBA product
- Quality embroidery
- Rhinestone accents
- Slip-on style
- Synthetic lining
- Textured rubber sole
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Special event items are produced by manufacturers only after the outcome of a game or event. These are advanced sale items and will ship immediately after they are received in our warehouse.
Manufacturer direct items are shipped directly from the manufacturer. These items are not available for international or expedited shipping.
Customized items can be personalized with options such as your name, your favorite number, and/or designs. Some options may be limited by league rules.