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Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Lower than a rapper's pants
One of them, I'll refer to it as my "bonnet," caused a monumental shift in Candyland...land...a few months back. In September, my employee position at "bonnet" was changed into an independent contracting position with fewer hours and instead of bi-weekly pay, I now receive direct deposit a month and a half ahead. In other words, I will work the end of December through [approx] January 23rd, but won't get a check until the very end of February. And so on.
With the recent birth of Baby S, things have gotten even harder. From pregnancy, he's been a needy baby. It started with the loss of fluid near his head causing me to be in and out of the hospital (= monumental bills piling up), then he died at birth. Thankfully was brought back to us but it was not without issues. He's had problems with different formulas and medications which they attribute to reflux. After we got our sweet Sully home from the hospital, his condition has only worsened.
It's been a pain in the arse. But moreso, I feel bad for him.
We've been in and out of the doctor's office and hospital for testing, he's been on different medications and formulas and even to the chiropractor. And because of his spitting up and projectile vomiting, the poor baby feels as though he's hungry all the time, therefore, we're going through formula like it's toilet paper. I don't know if that makes sense but we're going through a crapload. Haha. I made a funny.
Also, when a baby S eats, the end result is a pee-filled or dirty diaper. Thank BERT an old friend gave us boxes of diapers back in July or we'd be using whatever t-shirt we could pin up on the kid right about now.
The loss of pay, along with Baby S's problems have had a dramatic effect/affect/effect/affect/whatever on our finances. In fact, this Christmas was the lowest we've ever been. Despite my dear husband working as much as he could and me doing the same with 2 jobs (they BOTH pay monthly...) and raising two kids, the only way we could give them a Christmas at all was by doing the unthinkable. No, not that (no one would pay for this anyway). I've gotten loans on all my jewelry, including my beloved wedding band. It stings to be in such a position. Waiting for tax time so we can get a refund to pay everyone off, popping anxiety meds every time a bill comes, wondering where our next meal will come from...
We just can't get ahead after all that's happened.
I'm telling you this because I've nowhere else to turn. I don't consider you bloggers or even friends. You're family. Everything I've gone through, you've been there with me. You've been there for me after two miscarriages, for every New Medicine post-bliss ramble, but mostly, the times in between. When I felt as though no one was listening, there you were.
But this is different. I need something else. Any other time, YOU KNOW I'd happily raise money for the women of Ghana, or the AFSP and TWLOHA. I'd even give you my marrow. Just ask. Seriously.
I have no money, but if you ask me for a dollar, I'll dig through my cushions, count my change, until I find one to give you. I debated doing this but I'm so desperate right now, I have nothing to lose. We owe so many people...people who can take our car, kick child #1 out of school, turn off our electricity, garnish our wages...we're sinking.
I'm here to strike a deal.
While I've had to stop accepting MS and queries for critique due to time, I still have the following to offer! Anyone who makes a small (miniscule, even) donation to the charity of Candyland via paypal will receive one or all of the following:
-A creepy public love letter
-The word HUG on a piece of paper that I will mail to your door
-A New Medicine sticker. Because I have a trillion.
-A humiliating picture of me posted on the web
-Undying love and respect
**ALSO: Guide to Literary Agents and Children's Writers & Illustrator's Market Editor CHUCK SAMUCHINO has come to me with a generous offer! Get your query or synopsis edited by the best in the business! He's offering his services at a discounted rate of $40, donated to me. I will then email Chuck your email address and he'll connect with you and edit within 1 week. If you need help with your query, this is a steal by a pro. Only 8 available. If you are interested, please put CHUCK somewhere in the donation notes. Email me with questions.
A little about Chuck: Chuck Sambuchino is the editor of Guide To Literary Agents and Children's Writer's & Illustrator's Market (both Writer's Digest Books). He is the author of the writing books Formatting & Submitting Your Manuscript, 3rd Ed. (2009) as well as Create a Writer Platform (Fall 2012). He is a popular presenter at writers conferences nationwide and runs the Guide to Literary Agents Blog (guidetoliteraryagents.com/blog), one of the biggest blogs in publishing.
He is also a humor book author, with his 2010 book How To Survive A Garden Gnome Attack being featured in Reader's Digest, USA Todayand The New York Times. The film rights were recently optioned by Sony.**
This is post not a joke, as much as I wish it were. Donate .01 to 1,000,000. I don't care. If you choose to read and move on, I won't be offended. In fact, I'm going to move on after I post this. What a stupid post. I don't deserve a handout, and I sure don't want one. Make me work for it. That, I can do. Name your price.
Send all pennies to firstname.lastname@example.com and sparkles will combust in front of you. If you prefer, loan me your pennies and I can pay you back when the dust settles. You help me and I promise, when you need me, I will help you.
Isn't that what family's for?
I was going to delete this post after 48 hours but with a few encouraging emails I realized...my family needs all the help we can get right now...so...48+ hours later, here I am...
Candylanddesperate. OUT.
P.S. A few people have asked for a more direct way to help out. If you prefer snail mail, email me and I'll give you my address. Also, without being a weirdo, here's a Paypal button that's easier to click on instead of search.
150 comments:
- Matthew MacNish said...
Text me your snail mail address, because, yaknow, they kicked me off Paypal for being too awesome.
I'm serious. Text me your address. - January 4, 2012 at 4:01 AM
- Jamie Wyman said...
Going to send you what I can. Will try PayPal first, but they hate me. Also, I'm going to spread the word to the Tribe (tribeohana.com) and see what we can dig up. <3
- January 4, 2012 at 5:53 AM
- Emily White said...
Oh no!!! Of course, OF COURSE I will help! You seriously need to look into WIC (Women, Infant, and Children), though. When my husband lost his job a couple years ago and we had two children to care for, WIC literally saved us. It's not welfare or anything like that (because trust me, I understand if that's not a direction you want to go). It's all funded by a Non profit organization.
Now I'm off to help spread the word! :) :) :) - January 4, 2012 at 6:24 AM
- Jess Hartley said...
Sent a little. Tweeted/Google+/FBed a little. Lit a candle and am hoping good things for you. Let me know if there's more I can do - firstname.lastname@example.com
- January 4, 2012 at 6:50 AM
- Abby Minard said...
Oh Candace, I'm so sorry. I'm glad I came back to blogging when I did. I will gladly help out! Can you email me your snail mail address? I'm not very good with paypal...I think I have an account but it's been so long I have no idea what my username or password is, lol.
- January 4, 2012 at 6:57 AM
- Abby Minard said...
Oh Candace, I'm so sorry. I'm glad I came back to blogging when I did. I will gladly help out! Can you email me your snail mail address? (firstname.lastname@example.com) I'm not very good with paypal...I think I have an account but it's been so long I have no idea what my username or password is, lol.
- January 4, 2012 at 6:57 AM
- Robyn Lucas said...
Sharing post.
(((((hugging))))) - January 4, 2012 at 7:14 AM
- February Grace said...
Will be speaking to my spouse the moment he gets in the door for lunch about PayPal (the account is in his name).
I am grateful that you posted this.
You are loved, and it might not be as much as I wish it could be (where's my magic 'make the medical bills disappear wand', dammit, I know I had it somewhere...) but hopefully every little bit will add up.
I have to read the post again to look for it but if you get a second could you email your paypal email address to me at fireworksflowers at gmail dot com? It'll save time.
Love to you and the lil ones, geez, I feel awful that I didn't know you have gone through so much with Sully. Give his head a little kissy for me.
PS wish I'd have known about Christmas too- would have gladly given Santa a little 'help' for a toy or two... - January 4, 2012 at 7:26 AM
- February Grace said...
D'oh- nevermind, sweets, I see the email addy in the post upon second reading.
It's that whole 'visually impaired' thing got me again. Sorry bout that.
Something will be sent before the day is out. Hopefully long before then. As I said, I need a quick consult with somebody here before I do it.
Also sending you love and hugs, wish you could feel them. I have, in my own past, done the pawn the wedding ring to buy food thing- it's a feeling I wouldn't wish on anyone...
bru - January 4, 2012 at 7:48 AM
- anaquana said...
I'm here because of Jess Hartley. I don't know you nor had I ever read your blog until today, but your story touched me. I know what it's like to be scraping together pennies, to exactly portion food out to last X number of days, to worry that things won't stretch quite far enough.
Now that I'm in a position of financial stability, I am more than willing to pay it forward to you as so many of my friends, family, and loved ones did for me.
Stay strong and good luck to you. - January 4, 2012 at 8:19 AM
- Mia @ Artisan Artifacts said...
I know that you are an incredibly busy lady, but I was wondering if you would be open to cloth diapering. It's truly easier than it seems and much more economical. It just takes a load of laundry per day or so that way you'd always have diapers.
I have many friends that make cloth diapers that would be more than happy to send you everything you need to get started.
At the very least, it would give you an option to fall back on in the event of a disposable shortage.
Hope we can help & wishing you the very best. - January 4, 2012 at 8:34 AM
- Dianne Gardner said...
PayPal likes me. I've been there done that...had 7 kids, most while I was in poverty. Ask them...we even had a tumble weed for a Christmas tree once. Put my junk jewelry on it for decorations.
- January 4, 2012 at 8:35 AM
- Shannon O'Donnell said...
Oh, Candace, my friend!! My heart breaks for what you're going through right now. Stay strong. Your blogging family loves you dearly and we'll do what we can. I'm proud of you for being brave enough/strong enough to write this post. (((hugs)))
- January 4, 2012 at 8:42 AM
- Sarah Ahiers (Falen) said...
dude. i would've totally sent you money for nothing in return. Seriously. But i know how hard it is to actually ask for money from friends and family, and i've been in that situation before and how much better you feel when you're able to provide something in return.
I would love a full MS critique from you. I'm off to send you some money. As much as i can spare. - January 4, 2012 at 8:44 AM
- February Grace said...
Sent... please make sure you look for it! Couldn't think of asking anything in return. Just hope things will be going better soon. Want you to know my spouse is the one that insisted on the amount...he sends his best to you and the family, too. The picture of the kids really got to him, just wish we could have done more.
much love
bru - January 4, 2012 at 9:59 AM
- Eric W. Trant said...
Just sent a nibble of cash via paypal. Thank MacNish for posting to FB, because I'm behind on my blogging duties these days! I have a 1-yo boy myself who's keeping me busy, plus a book and work and I have no room to complain, do I.
I sure hope things settle out for you in 2012. Keep the faith. We define ourselves not in the good times, but the bad. I usually define myself with beer. Lots of beer.
But for you, dearest, by Gotten Himmel, keep being Candy-ful.
- Eric
ps: It's "effect" by the way... ;) - January 4, 2012 at 10:30 AM
- Creepy Query Girl said...
Buggin the hubs to transfer some moola over to paypal as we technically speak:) We are a family Candy and I hope things start looking up for you guys. It sounds like Sully has some kind of severe reflux. Not fun. Send me the deets to your paypal account- I could really use a MS critique when I finish this R&R for 'the agent':)
- January 4, 2012 at 10:46 AM
- Katie said...
Money sent! Stay strong, friend!
- January 4, 2012 at 11:01 AM
- Kelly Polark said...
I know it took a lot to post this, girl. Sorry you guys are going through such a hard time. This economy truly sucks. You are such a giving person; your blog friends are happy to help. Sending a little somethin' your way in the mail this week.
- January 4, 2012 at 12:10 PM
- Bethany C. said...
Pay Pal hates me--as I hate it, but I'd love to send a little something.
Can you please send me your address?
Email me at: firstname.lastname@example.com - January 4, 2012 at 3:34 PM
- thewannabeknight said...
Hi, I found your post by accident through... I can't even remember what social media now. But I know what it's like to grow up poor, and I will pray for you and your family. In the meantime, I've donated a little bit. I hope it helps!
- January 4, 2012 at 5:34 PM
- Tristina said...
I've been here (or similar) too many times to count so I'm sending what we can scrape together.
- January 4, 2012 at 8:31 PM
- Anne Gallagher said...
I know we don't know each other, have never met, but I'm good friends with Matt McNish so there's a reference. I don't do paypal, but I would like to help, so if you wouldn't mind sending me your snail mail address I can whip something through the USPS.
Also, it sounds like your baby had the same thing mine did when she was little. I know how hard it is to watch him eat and then cry. I don't know if you possibly can, but try ORGANIC milk. 2%. It's double pasteurized (or homogenized or something). Whatever they take out of it, allows there not to be so much protein, so much gas, so much whatever to enter into the baby causing so much distress. It's wicked expesive, like $4- a half gallon, but I swear by it. It saved me a lot of heartache when mine was a baby. I think Walmart might even have a generic brand for a little less money. Just make sure it's organic.
my email is anne.gallagher.writer at gmail dot com. Please do send me your address. - January 5, 2012 at 3:49 AM
- Lenny Lee* said...
hi miss candace. for sure you got my allowence for for the rest of my life if you could need it. i gotta help take care of my little brother sully and my little sister lillianna and mr eric and you. for sure all my familys gonna send some money. did you see how much people love you! wow! how cool is that. for sure i love you the most. :) im gonna call you real soon so we could talk
...big hugs from lenny - January 5, 2012 at 4:24 AM
- T.D. McFrost said...
I love your light humor in such a dark time. I am almost to tears because I know it must be hard--especially with a needy child.
I will be more than happy to assist you, no doubt about it!
This is just a test Candice. I don't mean to get all religious on you, but the man upstairs is giving you a final trial so that you will truly be deserving of the reward that is to come.
God bless you and your family. ^_^ <3 - January 5, 2012 at 4:25 AM
- Miranda Hardy said...
Matthew sent me over. I'll head to PayPal in a few seconds. Of course, it'll come from my real name: J Jackson. Hope the worst is behind you and it gets better soon.
- January 5, 2012 at 4:52 AM
- Susan Kaye Quinn said...
My heart hurts for you and your family. Matthew sent me over too, and I'm so glad he did. Please take good care and I'll be praying that things get better soon.
- January 5, 2012 at 5:11 AM
- Cyndi said...
I am absolutely speechless at the outpouring of love and support for Candy. Seriously, it makes me not so saddened by the state of our world. There are still good loving people out there!
- January 5, 2012 at 5:43 AM
- Matthew MacNish said...
"Without being a weirdo."
As if that was possible. No sister from another mister of Tim's could be anything but(t) weird. - January 5, 2012 at 6:09 AM
- Kristen Lippert-Martin said...
Sending you hope, courage, prayers, thoughts, sleep, peace, and a little bit of money. We all need help sometimes and you'll pay it forward someday.
- January 5, 2012 at 6:16 AM
- Kimber said...
I came here from Matthew's bog as well. I am so very sorry for what your family is going through. I sent a little something through Paypal. I so wish that I could do more, but as a single mom living on food stamps myself it's extremely hard. I will post your story on my blog and Facebook. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
- January 5, 2012 at 6:30 AM
- Wine and Words said...
Came over from McNish. I've been where you are...on food stamps with two small boys and husband making 13,000 gross one year. I remember making dinner for $1.26! I was so proud. Anyway, I was just reading a journal of those years and it all came flooding back. You've got a humble yet forthright spirit about it. I'm going through my own cycle of crap but I have some money in my PayPal account. Unfortunately they sent me an email saying its frozen for 21 days because someone cancelled an eBay transaction (which they didn't cancel of course) etc etc etc. so I'll try the PayPal button and see if some of the funds can still be used or if they froze it all...assholes! Just in case, please send me the snail mail. I'll do what I can. I don't want anything from you but do hope and pray for peace and a respite from the financial stress.
- Annie - January 5, 2012 at 7:01 AM
- Karen Amanda Hooper said...
*big hugs*
"This too shall pass."
Hang in there and know we're all here for you until it does. <3 The only thing you need to do to pay back my contribution is hug and kiss that beautiful family of yours. - January 5, 2012 at 7:01 AM
- Brinda said...
Matthew McNish sent me over. I'm so glad I read your blog post. I've sent you something. Keep your chin up. :)
- January 5, 2012 at 7:03 AM
- Wine and Words said...
Ha! What do you know! The powers at Paypal actually let me use MY OWN money (some of it anyway). Donation is under email@example.com. I never use that email as its full of junk. Hang in there woman! Strength and self reliance are underrated. Humility an transparency and being able to reach out your hand in both directions is what makes you special.
- Annie - January 5, 2012 at 7:11 AM
- Cherie Reich said...
I'm so sorry to hear about what's going on. *hugs* And you can definitely count on your family here. :)
- January 5, 2012 at 7:26 AM
- Becky Mahoney said...
Here from Matthew's post. Though you don't know me, I hope my contribution helps you just a little. Best of luck to you and your beautiful baby.
- January 5, 2012 at 7:52 AM
- February Grace said...
I posted a link back to this on my blog just now- am kinda hoping maybe you'll leave this post up a little bit longer than originally intended so more people can see it (though I totally understand if you don't want to, dear one.) Also been thusly Tweeted.
bru - January 5, 2012 at 8:24 AM
- Talli Roland said...
Done, with love. xx
- January 5, 2012 at 9:02 AM
- maine character said...
I'm sending a little cash, and a lot of love. Give Sully a hug for me.
- January 5, 2012 at 9:39 AM
- Nicole MacDonald said...
I was super excited to have sold two books this morning :) so I'm sharing it with you. Gotta love the ease of paypal. Wishing you and your family well *hugs*
Damsel in a Dirty Dress - January 5, 2012 at 9:43 AM
- Caledonia Lass said...
We got your back, sister. ;)
- January 5, 2012 at 10:03 AM
- Stephen Parrish said...
I'm in, and commenting just to let you know that it was Bru who sent me.
- January 5, 2012 at 10:40 AM
- Jemi Fraser said...
I'm ready to help too and sending your family all kinds of well wishes. good luck. - January 5, 2012 at 10:42 AM
- Marsha Sigman said...
Done via Paypal and happy to do so. Came over by way of Matt.
Just so you know...it will get better. It always does.
In the meantime, I want one of those HUG papers. - January 5, 2012 at 10:52 AM
- Christine Rains said...
Email on its way. New follower here sent by Matthew. We mommy writers have to stick together!
- January 5, 2012 at 10:53 AM
- Marta Szemik said...
Done what I could.
So lucky to have friends like Matt.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Many, many (((((((hugs))))))) - January 5, 2012 at 12:01 PM
- Bethany Elizabeth said...
You are one of the bravest people I know. I don't get to read blogs too often, but every time I read your blog, your honesty and courage shows through. After having given so much to help others, you deserve every cent. I don't know what much else I can do to help, but if there's anything at all, consider me at your disposal. I honestly can't imagine the difficulty you must be going through, just to fight to get out of bed another day, but you are more than amazing, and we all love you. things will get better -
"All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well."
But in the meantime, I'll be praying for you and the whole Candyland clan. I'm sending love and hugs your way. - January 5, 2012 at 12:37 PM
- Angela Ackerman said...
Send me your snail? I won a US Visa card awhile back for 20 dollars and being in Canada, I won't be able to use it unless I go on holiday. I would much rather send it to someone who needs it. :)
Hugs--I can only imagine how difficult this is for you. I'm so glad you posted about this.
Angela - January 5, 2012 at 1:45 PM
- Lydia Kang said...
Tweeted your link. I sent something too, but it's from a funny name you won't recognize. Sending an email soon.
(((((hugs))))))) - January 5, 2012 at 3:00 PM
- Jennifer Hillier said...
Candace, sending you my best vibes. Please check your PayPal account - if you see something from Steve Hillier, that's me.
BIG HUGS. Please hang in there. Sending you prayers. xoxo - January 5, 2012 at 3:07 PM
- Emma Lauren said...
Candace, sometimes there are just no words. I'll email you for your snail address in a minute.
- January 5, 2012 at 3:09 PM
- Ainsley Shay said...
your post was forwarded to me by miranda hardy. your story touched me and i sent what i could via paypal (it'll come from gabquette@yahoo). your humor throughout the post captivates what a strong person you are.
i wish the best to you and your family.
ps - my nephew experienced very similar "symptoms" to you son's, he too was rejecting formula, projectile vomiting, always hungry, etc.all dr's kept pushing them away - saying to try different formulas...but she persisted and knew it was something more serious, it ended up being Pyloric Stenosis and after an operation to his stomach - he's perfect...it sounds like you've had your share of tests but just thought i'd share. - January 5, 2012 at 3:18 PM
- Nicole Ducleroir said...
My heart's in pieces for you and your sweet family. Don't lose hope -- you are so loved in the blogging community and I can't imagine the joy you bring to those lucky enough to surround you in the real world. Help is on the way!
Don't hesitate to keep us posted and be sure to say when more help is needed. If you don't end up doing another post like this but still need support, email me!! You have my deets, but just in case: nicoleducleroir(at)gmail(dot)com. Maybe there's something in my closet or garage that you can use, or a specific gift card I can send. Whatever else I can do to help, I'm here for you.
Much love and positive vibes,
Nicole - January 5, 2012 at 3:18 PM
- ODell @ Book Twirps said...
Wishing you and your family the best. I've been there.
- January 5, 2012 at 3:25 PM
- akoss said...
I know how it is to deal with a newborn who has a lot of battles to win and the crazy bills from the hospital.
I don't know you or your blog. I only found out thanks to twitter.
I really want to help (for nothing in return) but can't use paypal.
So snail mail will have to do.
Please hang in there. - January 5, 2012 at 3:49 PM
- EconomicDisconnect said...
I really hope things get easier for you and your family. Take care.
- January 5, 2012 at 3:56 PM
- Lydia Kang said...
Please keep this post up for a little while longer. The interwebz sometimes takes time for news to spread, and then the link will be gone.
Going to FB now... - January 5, 2012 at 5:02 PM
- Mara McBain said...
I'm another of those you don't know, but wants to help. Nicole Ducleroir sent me your way. I'm a short story author that just finished my first novel. More importantly i'm a wife and mother that knows what it's like to watch the bills pile up, see the propane tank run dry, and fix meals because they are REALLY cheap .. not because they sounded good.
We are struggling, but your story reminded me that there is always someone out there that needs the help more than you do. I sent a small gift your way through PayPal from April Burger/Irish_Hussy69/SamborasGG. LOL Not sure which way it shows up for you. Either way, I wanted you to know I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers and wish you and your family the best of luck! - January 5, 2012 at 5:33 PM
Courage is not the absence of fear, it is standing up and doing what you need in spite of the fear, especially where your family is concerned.
This post shows me you have amazing courage!
I don't know you nor have ever met you, but I have been where you are. My family and I survived on the strength of friends, family and sheer stubbornness not to give up.
Don't stop hoping, or believing that it will get better. I hope what little I sent helps keep that belief alive.
Best of luck to your family! - January 5, 2012 at 5:41 PM
- Kelly Dexter said...
I'm so sorry for the bad that's come your way. It burns me up when good, awesome people are faced with such shitty times. I don't want to sound like a total goober, but from the time I stumbled across your blog, I've been in total awe of your frankness and humor. It's hard to believe that a person on the interwebs, whom I've never met, can come across as so honest and genuine. There have been times when you've posted things that have really helped me in a way I didn't expect to find in my blog travels, and I'm so happy that this kick ass community is rallying around one of their own.
You're going to make it through this. You're too awesome, and you have to much great shit to do. Thanks for remaining YOU in the midst of this crapstorm. I'll keep you, your hubs, and the kiddos in my thoughts. - January 5, 2012 at 7:37 PM
- Melodie Wright said...
Found this post from Matt's blog - don't know you but like the others, have been where you are. It sucks!!! But it also can be one of the brightest times of your life, looking back. (Looking back, I say, not in it.)
Agree with the commentor who said Sully's conditions sounds like severe reflux. A friend's child had similar issues - turns out he was allergic to mom's milk, as well as several formulas. It took months to figure it out - they had to go w/ a soyless/milkless alternative if I remember right.
Anyway, headed to Paypal now to see if I remember my p/w. Praying for you!! - January 5, 2012 at 7:55 PM
- Julie Musil said...
I echo Talli's words, "Done. With love." I heard from Lydia Kang...I'm so glad you posted this. I know it couldn't have been easy to do. Just know that I've said a prayer for you and your lovely family. Stay strong. This too shall pass.
- January 5, 2012 at 8:36 PM
- Angela M. said...
Actually, chica, you do deserve a hand up. When I'm about to drown, I usually have my Navy family to hold on to, and I don't feel bad when I have to turn to them because I'm there for them, too. And you're the same with your blogosphere family. You give so much. Sometimes it's okay to let others do the giving. I hope these hard times end for you soon.
- January 5, 2012 at 9:00 PM
- Sarah Pearson said...
I truly wish I could help you. I'm glad you have others around you who can. I hope that wonderful boy of yours feels better soon.
- January 5, 2012 at 9:35 PM
- Candy Fite said...
Hi, Candy...it's Candy! I've just sent you an email requesting your snail mail...nice to have blog bounced and found you! Wishing you none other than my very best, heartfelt sentiments.
- January 6, 2012 at 7:11 AM
- Jamie Burch said...
Ooh...my heart goes out to you. Wish I had a real magic wand to make it all better. Wishing, hoping and praying that it all gets better soon. You should keep this up a little longer so everyone gets a chance to help out if they can.
Much love,
~Jamie - January 6, 2012 at 7:40 AM
- TL Conway said...
I'm here through Matt's blog (Thanks, Matt!) and gladly donated. And then promptly became a new follower.
Thinking of you and your family. I wish you all the best. - January 6, 2012 at 7:53 AM
- Jessica Salyer said...
Found my way here from Matthew's blog. Stay strong, I wish you and your family the best. Sending you an e-mail now to get your e-mail. Also putting a link up on my blog. I don't have as my followers as Matt, but every little bit helps. :)
- January 6, 2012 at 11:29 AM
- Melissa Bradley said...
I haven't been here to comment so often, but I have been following you for quite some time and I love your posts, just love them. I am sending positive thoughts and praying for you. You will get through. I have faced some very tough times this past year and my friends have really lent me a hand up. I am unemployed right now, but I can spread the word. Here is my email and I will try to find yours and get in touch. I might be able to send something, I just don't have PayPal anymore. firstname.lastname@example.com
Stay strong, my sister writer. Hugs! - January 6, 2012 at 1:11 PM
- Lydia Kang said...
Keep this post up, at least through the end of the weekend. I just blogged about it and I get a lot of readers over the weekend.
Hugs, m'dear. - January 6, 2012 at 2:38 PM
- L.G.Smith said...
Hiya Candace. Heard about your situation and had to come by. Smartest thing you ever did was start blogging and connecting with this fabulous group of people. Hope to get to know you more in the future. :))
- January 6, 2012 at 2:57 PM
- L.G.Smith said...
Oh, yeah, the donation will read "Montoya", but that's me. :))
- January 6, 2012 at 3:05 PM
- JL Stratton said...
You had me at "Rapper's Pants."
I don't know you. You don't know me, but I think it only right to help you, as you have surel helped others. Call it "paying it forward" or whatever but I'm donating.
I don't know why I'm so touched by your post. I don't usually give anything of myself for fear of Internet backlash (you know what I mean) but I just can't help it. You're a fellow writer, You're a Mom, You're a human being in trouble and reaching out ... and I know that's gotta be hard. In my eyes you're a hero(inne). - January 6, 2012 at 3:09 PM
- Zooks said...
Hey Candace, I don't know you but I know Lydia Kang from Query Tracker and she tweeted about your current situation. My heart goes out to you and your family. I lost my job in September so things are a bit tight right now, but I did send you something via PayPal. I read someone else suggested WIC and I can recommend it from personal experience. Would love for you to critique a query or MS of mine, but you've obviously got enough on your hands. Be well and strong. *hugs*
- January 6, 2012 at 3:17 PM
- Rachele Alpine said...
Happy to help! You don't need to do anything in return, just spend more time with your sweet kids! :)
www.freckle-head.blogspot.com - January 6, 2012 at 3:18 PM
- Susan Oloier said...
So sorry about your current situation. (((Hugs))) to you and yours. Not sure where you live, and you have a ton of responses, so someone may have already mentioned this: if you have a child with a medical disability as I do (not sure if that applies with your kiddo), there are options such as SSI and waiver programs (my son is on a waiver in our state, as we would go broke paying out-of-pocket for his medical expenses). Have you pursued these avenues. Believe it or not, there is a lot of help with local/state/federal agencies despite the economy. Just a thought. It's most definitely helped us.
- January 6, 2012 at 3:43 PM
- Roslyn Ross said...
Americans should not be bankrupted by medical costs. All other developed nations can provide top quality medical care to all citizens free of charge or minimal cost.
In terms of the baby, try homeopathy. It can work with other methodologies and because it works on underlying causes and has no side effects it does no harm. It is slow but sure. - January 6, 2012 at 5:25 PM
- Janet Johnson said...
Done. And take care of that precious baby! Sending love and prayers, too. :)
- January 6, 2012 at 6:36 PM
- Sharon K. Mayhew said...
Candace...you've been such a great bloggy friend. I'm pretty sure I have your address. I'll put something in the mail to you tomorrow. (((hugs)))
- January 6, 2012 at 6:40 PM
- Melissa Ann Goodwin said...
Please send me your snail mail address. I hate paypal. But I want to help. firstname.lastname@example.com
- January 6, 2012 at 7:17 PM
- lee said...
Hang in there, honey. It wasn't much, but I hope it helps.
~lr - January 6, 2012 at 8:24 PM
- Craig Edwards said...
I'm dropping in via my pal Melissa Bradley - I am happy to help out and please just pay it forward sometime when you're able.
- January 6, 2012 at 8:38 PM
- Joanne Fritz said...
Found you through Lydia Kang and donated what I could.
Hugs to you. It WILL get better. Let us know. - January 6, 2012 at 8:57 PM
- Kristy Shen said...
Hi Candace,
I'm dropping by from Lydia's blog.
I'm so sorry about your current situation, and I really feel for you guys in the States because here in Canada, we are very lucky to have socialized health care.
As a fellow writer, I'm more than happy to help you out. God bless you and your family and hopefully everything will work out for you soon.
Bryce and Kristy - January 6, 2012 at 9:03 PM
- K. Turley (Clutzattack) said...
Referred by Lydia. Best wishes for you and your family and I hope things get better.
- January 6, 2012 at 9:19 PM
- Eliza Tilton said...
Dropping by from Lydia's blog.
One thing that helped me was getting diapers on subscribe and save from Amazon.com. You sign up for the Mother discount (15%) and subscribe and save items are (15%). You can get a 100+pampers box for around $22.00. I saved soo much when I switched to that. You can also control when and how many shipments you get. If you need any other info email me firstname.lastname@example.com
Also, gripe water. It helps with gas. Don't know if you tried that, yet. My prayers are with you and your family. - January 6, 2012 at 9:44 PM
- Amie Borst said...
so weird. i had left a message yesterday and it seems to have dissappeared today! crazy strange!
anyway, i sure hope things get better for you. definitely try the WIC - it really helps with the basics. and the reflux will be okay. my daughter used to soak her clothes - and mine - multiple times a day. it's rough while you're going through it, but it's actually quite common (though that's not much comfort when you're baby is suffering).
wishing you all the best! - January 6, 2012 at 10:18 PM
- Maynard Morrissey said...
Dropping by from Melissa's blog.
Donated a little, hope it helps a bit. I wish you, your baby and your husband all the best!!
Maynard aka Harald - January 7, 2012 at 12:03 AM
- K. M. Walton said...
Those 86 comments above this one are proof that humanity thrives in the blogging community.
Just stopping by to let you know that your heartbreaking situation touched me (and my sisters) and we've all sent you something through paypal.
Stay strong, Candace. Stay strong. - January 7, 2012 at 7:10 AM
- Lo Hughes said...
I came here via Lydia Kang's blog. Wishing you lots of strength and good wishes for 2012! I'm heading over to paypal right now.
- January 7, 2012 at 7:51 AM
- Old Kitty said...
Hi! Came over from Lydia Kang's blog. Sorry about my miniscule donation! Hope it helps in a tiny way. Take care x
Jennifer D. aka Old Kitty! - January 7, 2012 at 9:31 AM
- Karen Lange said...
You are in my thoughts and prayers, Candace!
- January 7, 2012 at 10:44 AM
- Laura said...
Hi Candy - Over from Talli's link - mine's not much, but I hope it helps a little - l.bambrey email from paypal. I'll post a link for you tomorrow at Daily Dodo - please keep this post up so we can continue to spread the word for you.
Love to you and your family
Laura xxx - January 7, 2012 at 3:03 PM
- Kelly Polark said...
You are loved, Candace. So happy to see the blogworld coming together to help one of their own.
:) xoxo - January 7, 2012 at 4:11 PM
- Riley said...
Got your blog post thru a mutual FB friend. Best of luck to you! :) Stay strong!!!
- January 7, 2012 at 4:20 PM
- Jamie Wyman said...
You are totally loved.
- January 7, 2012 at 4:23 PM
- RamblingWords said...
Sent a pittance it was what I had to send. Good luck.
- January 7, 2012 at 4:27 PM
- Christine Fonseca said...
Hugs! Just giving you some extra love. So sorry for everything you are going through.
- January 7, 2012 at 4:30 PM
- Julie said...
- January 7, 2012 at 4:34 PM
- Matthew MacNish said...
101! Woot. Wasabi, my ninja?
- January 7, 2012 at 4:40 PM
- Hart Johnson said...
My own finances are in the toilet, but I did give a shout on FB, so hopefully some of my friends have better potential. I really wish you the best and hope time flies until the first paycheck and refund can get you back on track!
- January 7, 2012 at 4:50 PM
- Marilyn Almodóvar said...
I saw the RT by Amanda Marie from a tweet by Linda. I've been touched by your story and I have made a contribution. I'll be posting a link on my blog and RTing this again.
Blessed be - January 7, 2012 at 5:07 PM
- Teresa Cypher aka T K CypherBuss said...
Please send me your snail-mail address. I have never read your blog before today...found my way here through Hart's ^ post on fb. I went through a 10 month stretch-- out of work last year. It was tough, but life keeps moving forward. Today I am sending you a virtual hug along with an "It will be okay." Will send what I can via snail mail. I so wish 2012 brings an easing of your financial challenges. Hug those beautiful children!
- January 7, 2012 at 6:32 PM
- RaShelle Workman said...
Don't know if you've tried Nutramigen (probably), but my first had serious issues with formula and this was the one that worked. After that it was goats milk fresh from a goat farm, but I won't go there.
- January 7, 2012 at 7:40 PM
- Krista said...
I came here from FB. I only had a small amount to give but I hope every little bit helps. Lots of love and hugs.
- January 7, 2012 at 9:57 PM
- Rebecca Emin said...
Thinking of you all. I am a parent and I know how hard it is at the best of times, but when they are sick... well I feel for you so much and I hope your little boy grows to be a strong and healthy man. Lots of love. xx
- January 8, 2012 at 1:12 AM
- Jessica Bell said...
Honey, I'm so sorry. As soon as I get my pay check this month I'll send you some funds. Love you lots, and keep your head up. Everybody loves you and cares for you. And so do I. I know I've been absent for a while, but life had been a huge kick in the butt for me lately. Thinking of you, and will send you some money as soon as i can. Love you xoxo
- January 8, 2012 at 2:39 AM
- Tracy Jo said...
Done! I don't have much but gave a little. I am so sorry you are going through this. I am a new follower and saw your blog through Jessica, Glynis and Matthew on FAcebook. Social networking rocks! Sending you positive thoughts.
- January 8, 2012 at 6:02 AM
- Kathryn Magendie said...
- This comment has been removed by the author.
- January 8, 2012 at 6:42 AM
- kathrynmagendie said...
Jessica and Glynis posted your link on facebook - and as Tracy wrote - SN is a wonderful supportive place. And Jessica has said what a wonderful person you are and in answer to my question "is she/this the real deal?" she has said you certainly are . . . I'm sorry things are so difficult right now, and how brave of you to post this . . .
- January 8, 2012 at 6:43 AM
- Glynis said...
We have all been through hard times. May my small drop in the ocean bring you a smile, sweetheart. x
- January 8, 2012 at 7:17 AM
- Dorothy Dreyer said...
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, and I'm spreading the word. Wish I could do more for you from across the ocean. Hang in there!
- January 8, 2012 at 7:55 AM
- Rusty Fischer said...
Saw Dorothy Dreyer's tweet about this and realized I'd just gotten my advance from Noble YA Publishing sent to Paypal; it's yours and only wish I could have added more zeros to it! Someday, and best to you in 2012!!!
- January 8, 2012 at 8:06 AM
- Natalie Aguirre said...
So sorry for your difficult time. I'm doing what I can to help. I hope things get better for you soon.
- January 8, 2012 at 8:07 AM
- Natalie Aguirre said...
So sorry for your difficult time. I'm doing what I can to help. I hope things get better for you soon.
- January 8, 2012 at 8:07 AM
- Medeia Sharif said...
I saw this link via FB and Twitter and stopped by to read, follow, and donate. I'm so sorry you're going through all this and I hope things turn around this year.
- January 8, 2012 at 8:07 AM
- Theresa Milstein said...
I'm glad you extended this because I missed it within the first 48 hours.
I wish you and your family the best. xo - January 8, 2012 at 8:09 AM
- Lola Sharp said...
Oh, Candy, I'm sorry I'm sooo late to this...I've been busy and not making the blog rounds very well (and I haven't see you around in a long time either). I'm so sorry you are going through such hard times. *squeezy hugs*
Email me your address and I'll send you some money right away. <3
I hope you and your family have a much better 2012.
Lola - January 8, 2012 at 8:20 AM
- Kristin Rae said...
I'm a long time follower of your blog, but I'm not the best at making the blog rounds, so I'm glad I saw Hilary post this on FB. My heart goes out to your family. Headed to PayPal right away!
- January 8, 2012 at 8:24 AM
- jenny milchman said...
I'm so sorry to hear of your troubles! Very glad for Baby S's resurrection--but how hard it is to be parent a newborn, any newborn--then when you add the issues in...
I'm going to try to donate--PayPal hates me too--but I wanted to make a further offer. I'm just a little ahead of you I think in the publishing game--just sold my debut novel after 11 years spent trying to break in--and I teach writing and publishing. If you'd like to offer an hour's free coaching and advice, I would be happy to donate that. (The normal rate seems to be $100-$150/hour so--whatever you think). The writer can discuss his or her publication journey so far, ask for resources, contacts, or discuss a work-in-progress--anything. I'd really be happy to help, so if this seems an inane offer, but something else occurs to you--please just ask.
And best of luck to you and yours. Things will get better. They have to. - January 8, 2012 at 8:39 AM
- M.P. McDonald said...
So sorry to hear you're going through such a hard time. My books have been doing well lately, so I thought I'd pay it forward by sending a donation through Paypal. (through my aol email addy which begins with Mary. Don't want to post it here as I keep it separate from my writing one.)
- January 8, 2012 at 8:52 AM
- Becca Puglisi said...
Hi, Candy. Found you through Matthew McNish. My two toddlers both have a stomach virus right now, and even with that, I can't begin to imagine what you're going through. We writing moms have to stick together, so I sent you a little something (abpug). When you're able, I'd love a critique of my novel opening. Trying to figure out which of two ways to start it.
Hang in there. - January 8, 2012 at 10:03 AM
- Li said...
Done. (The paypal button was a help.) Nor do I want anything in return. Keep your chins up and best wishes.
- January 8, 2012 at 1:04 PM
- Li said...
Forgot to add I'll also tweet this out to my followers :-)
- January 8, 2012 at 1:10 PM
- Jenny said...
You are so brave to face these problems with humility and love! Have sent you an email and will help however I can. We have ALL been there and I am praying for your whole family, that things improve sooner than soon! Love from Jenny @ The Modest Peacock.
- January 8, 2012 at 1:58 PM
- Caitlin said...
This is my first time stopping by after finding your blog through another post. You are a strong woman to stand up to ask for the help that your family needs. As someone else mentioned, have you looked into WIC? We had to use it for a few months while we were getting back onto our feet last year.
If you will, please e-mail me your address and the size diapers (and if he is sensitive to a certain brand) that your son wears :) My e-mail is caitlinblane(at)gmail.com - January 8, 2012 at 5:14 PM
- Trisha said...
I saw Laura's (Daily Dodo) post about this and came by - sent you a small amount, sorry I can't do more.
- January 8, 2012 at 5:48 PM
- kimmullican.com said...
Donated, blogged, tweeted and facebooked. Prayers to you and your family!
- January 8, 2012 at 7:23 PM
- Leslie Rose said...
Thank you for asking. I'm happy to give and all I ask in return is for you to snuggle your kids. You are in my thoughts and prayers. xo
- January 8, 2012 at 7:42 PM
- Chris Phillips said...
Know how you feel. Hope things turn around soon.
- January 8, 2012 at 8:25 PM
- Sue H said...
My son was a tricky feeder - refused 'me' and it would take 40mins to get 3oz formula into him before he brought it all back up within the hour. He was always crying and
'health professionals' just told me to keep trying! :-/
By thd time ge was 11 weeks he was a sickly and miserable infant. Luckily, a wise, older, neighbour said to try him on barley water (boil up some barley, strain off the water into a bottle and feed him that) - he took it readily and didn't throw up - so with a combination of that and runny baby rice he never looked back.
2 years later a new doctor determined he was lactose
intolerant! Once he avoided milk products he was fine - now a strapping 25yr old!
Might be worth seeing if your boy has any food intolerance - my son was able to return to a full diet within three years, his digestive system just needed to mature, they said!
Hope all goes well, whatever approach you take! - January 8, 2012 at 11:49 PM
- Ellen Brickley said...
Came here via Laura at Daily Dodo. Hope things look up for you and your family, sent a small donation. Take care x
- January 9, 2012 at 1:33 AM
- JJ Toner said...
Hilary Wagner alerted me, via FB. Small donation paypal'ed. Those doctors you're dealing with need a swift kick imo
- January 9, 2012 at 1:42 AM
- Matthew MacNish said...
Chuck is the man, people. His eyes on your work is worth a lot more than 40 bucks. Just sayin.
- January 9, 2012 at 3:26 AM
- Jonathon Arntson said...
First of all, *HUGS*
Second of all, I'd donate, but my account is negative (it's always been a pessimist). So, I am making you a promise. I am a server at a diner. I will donate to you 5% of all the tips I make this week. Consider yourself my hostess.
You're a brave woman to come out with it all, and it's motivating me to get my ass in gear in my own life. So, in a sense, I am simply paying you back. - January 9, 2012 at 6:00 AM
- Nikki said...
(((HUGS))) I think everyone else has said it all. I simply adore this community and everyone who has provided you with support, and I'm happy to be a part of it.
- January 9, 2012 at 6:21 AM
- Lydia Kang said...
$40 is steal for that kind of professional eye! Thank you Chuck!
- January 9, 2012 at 6:52 AM
- Christina Lee said...
Hey you! Donated to you last week and am tweeting this today. Hope you're hanging in there and feel HOPE!
- January 9, 2012 at 7:11 AM
- farawayeyes said...
I have such a dark picture of humanity, but the response here gives me pause to reflect. May you open that PayPal account and see a million bucks.
- January 9, 2012 at 8:59 AM
- Colene Murphy said...
Oh Candace! I'm so sorry! (sorry to be late to reading this too!) I can't imagine how stressful that all is. Send me your snail mail? (paypal and me...we don't get along) Have you tried goats milk with Sully instead of formula?
- January 9, 2012 at 9:10 AM
- Katie Anderson said...
Money and prayers sent. Hang in there, girl!
- January 9, 2012 at 11:19 AM
- C D Meetens said...
Found your post due to Laura at Daily Dodo. So sorry to hear about this. I haven't sent much, but I hope it will help you and your family.
- January 9, 2012 at 1:47 PM
- M Pax said...
Melissa Bradley sent me. E-mail me your address, and I'll help. Been in that situation moneywise. It's no fun.
mpaxauthor[at]gmail[dot]com - January 9, 2012 at 2:55 PM
- LD Masterson said...
Lydia sent me. I sent a little help via PayPal. Good luck and God bless.
- January 9, 2012 at 6:05 PM
- cindyvoldseth said...
I'm a mother of 2
Email me, while I go share this post :D
cindyvoldseth(at)yahoo(dot)com - January 9, 2012 at 9:14 PM
- Aris Whittier said...
I just sent you a email. I wish you and your family the best! I think 2012 is going to be a good year for you. Hang in there!
- January 10, 2012 at 6:55 AM
- Sue Ganz-Schmitt said...
Hello! Just saw your post from Literary Rambles this morning. I hope that things are going better. A donation has been made (through my husband Martin's account). Here is to a great year for you and your family. Clearly you have much love and support around you to pull you through!
- January 10, 2012 at 8:27 AM
- Gina Blechman said...
Unfortunately, I don't have money to donate to you, I've found myself in a bit of a financial pickle at the moment, but I truly hope that you can find your way out of it. Good luck to your family. I know that asking for money is hard, and sometimes receiving it can seem even harder, but just know that you deserve it. God bless.
<3 Gina Blechman - January 11, 2012 at 3:26 PM
- Matthew MacNish said...
150 beaches.
- January 13, 2012 at 11:27 AM


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Blue Jays on wrong end of Verlander's feat
Tigers ace pitches no-hitter at Rogers Centre; Romero hit hard
TORONTO -- For all of his struggles Saturday, Ricky Romero knew one thing -- if there was ever a day to not have his best stuff, this was it.
"There's not much you can do against a no-hitter," Romero succinctly said after he was hit hard in the Blue Jays 9-0 drubbing at the hands of the Tigers and Justin Verlander, who pitched the MLB's 271st no-hitter at Rogers Centre Saturday night.
Despite the fact Romero (2-4) left after 3 1/3 innings, giving up six earned runs on five hits, none of it mattered much anyway as his adversary Verlander was simply untouchable throughout the afternoon, throwing the second no-hitter of his career.
The 28-year-old made the Blue Jays (15-18) victim of their fourth no-hitter in history and the first since 1991, when Hall-of-Famer Nolan Ryan pulled off the feat while he was with the Rangers.
Verlander (3-3) would come painfully close to a perfect game, retiring the first 22 batters he faced before Blue Jays catcher J.P. Arencibia drew a walk in the eighth, after a marathon 12-pitch at-bat in which he fouled off eight pitches.
"He made some good pitches that I was able to foul off. I knew he was going to come after me and I knew he was going to throw his fastball at me once we got a 3-2 count," Arencibia said. "I was seeing the ball pretty well. I took it right away."
The 12th pitch, a 100 MPH fastball, ended up just outside the plate and left Verlander -- who faced the minimum and struck out four -- just outside the prestigious 20-member perfect game club.
"That one, right out of my finger tips I knew it was just a hair outside and it was," Verlander said. "Hell of an at-bat. ... [Arencibia] laid off some good pitches, he fouled off some good pitches. I can't say enough about the way he battled that at-bat."
Verlander was able to get Edwin Encarnacion, the next batter, to ground into a double play, and thus still face the minimum number of batters.
For as good as he was through the game's first few innings, Verlander seemed to find another gear when he crossed into the seventh, pounding his fastball into the zone at 100 MPH and faster. No Blue Jay hitter would even come close to a hit in the late innings.
"He was unbelievable today. Anytime your 106th pitch is hitting 100 -- I would say that's pretty ridiculous stuff," Arencibia said.
The closest the Blue Jays would come to breaking up Verlander's bid for history was in the fifth inning, when Edwin Encarnacion rocketed a grounder directly into the tall right-hander's right forearm.
Verlander quickly recovered, finding the ball near the third-base line and shooting a dart to first just in time to get the sprinting Encarnacion on a close call.
Blue Jays manager John Farrell saw it differently and came out to argue the call, to no avail.
"I saw him as being safe. There wasn't a willingness to see if there was a different angle on the play. Even from the dugout, I felt like he was safe," Farrell said.
Even with that infield single, however, the Blue Jays chances of victory were long since dashed, as their staff ace Romero imploded on the mound early.
Saturday was Romero's shortest start of the season and he allowed the most runs he has allowed since Sept. 11, 2010, when he gave up six to the Rays. It was just the fourth time the left-hander has allowed six or more runs in his three-season career.
"It was just an off day for me. I just had a bad day," Romero said after the game. "Even the first two innings, I felt like something wasn't right. I kind of felt like my arm angle was a little low today for some reason."
Despite not feeling his best in the early going, everything was looking fine for Romero when he retired the first six batters he faced, striking out two and forcing the other four to ground out. But the Tigers (16-18) torched the 26-year-old for five hits and six earned runs over the third and fourth innings, chasing him from the game with one out in the fourth.
Romero did most of the damage to himself in the third, stringing together a balk, a hit-by-pitch, two walks and a wild pitch to allow the Tigers to open up a 3-0 lead. Despite notching just two hits, the Tigers sent seven batters to the plate in the inning and only one of their runs came on a ball in play -- a Magglio Ordonez groundout.
But the fourth inning was a different story, as the Tigers put up three runs over three batters with a Johnny Peralta solo home run to left field and a towering two-run shot by Alex Avila to deep right-center, sending Romero to the showers early.
"I think once that balk happened, it kind of rattled him a little bit and he lost his composure," Romero's catcher Arencibia said. "He was able to come back and still make some pitches, but he was getting behind guys and left some balls up and they did a good job of hitting the balls he left up."
Romero was pitching on seven day's rest after being scratched from his scheduled Thursday start with a right oblique injury. But Romero said he wasn't bothered in the slightest by the injury or the time off, and that Saturday simply wasn't his day.
"Not at all -- it felt fine," Romero said when asked if he felt any discomfort throwing. "I felt good and the arm felt good. It's just something where you get ready for the next one."
As if Saturday's game wasn't disheartening enough for the Blue Jays, first baseman Adam Lind left the game between the sixth and seventh innings with tightness in his lower back. The 27-year-old was one of Toronto's hottest hitters coming into the game, batting .421 with six home runs and 18 RBIs over his last 14 games. Farrell said after the game that Lind's status is day-to-day.
Arden Zwelling is an associate reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Reviews (3)
"Valuable Product"
"This product is a valuable addition to my rescue. I can honestly say that I believe it saved the life of at least 4 newborn rescue puppies (mixed with water, as directed, and given with a syringe when they cannot tolerate anything else) and most recently an older Siberian husky girl who suffered a ""stroke"" and needed booster nutrition. The extremely palatable taste is something dogs will seek out even if they are critically ill. Even a few syringefuls will sustain a dog (or a few cc's a puppy) until they are rehydrated and eating on their own."
"Dyne is excellent"
I have been using Dyne for over 4 years now and I love it. Dyne not only adds weight to puppies but is good for lactating mothers as well. I will continue to use this product. All 7 of my bully breed of dogs love this.
I like to give a small drop of Dyne to my puppies, so they understand what a treat is, then my older dogs line up for a treat, too. Dyne is great to mix into something your dogs and puppies fight against taking -- it becomes a treat, and you get the meds down easily.


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Man arrested trying to get NH driver's license
Police said a man calling himself Oscar Rodriguez, 26, was arrested at the Division of Motor Vehicles Friday on multiple counts of tampering with public records and "unsworn falsification."
Police are still trying to figure out the man's true identity and asked anyone with information to contact Trooper Richard Dupont at 223-8778.
Rodriguez is being held on $20,000 cash bail pending arraignment Tuesday in 6th Circuit, Concord District Court.
State police officers were assisted in their investigation by officers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.


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Motorcycle & Motor Scooter Dealers in Bird Island |
Below is a list of businesses listed within our directory. If you do not see your business within the list below, you can submit it for addition to this list. Adding your business will feature your listing above Standard listings.
Helpful Definition for: Motorcycle & Motor Scooter Dealers
Motorcycles and Motor Scooters are similar in their function. Motorcycles are two-wheeled means of transportation. Motor scooters also serve the same purpose. Motorcycles are sturdy and are used not only for transportation but also for racing, sports, etc. Motor scooters are good modes of transportation in urban areas. Motor scooters and motorcycles differ from each other in their riding skills and their sound. Motor scooters are quieter than motorcycles, and do not require high riding skills.
Motorcycle and Motor Scooter Dealers, in Bird Island, are people who deal with the buying and selling of motorcycles and motor scooters. The dealers in Bird Island keep a huge collection of motorcycles and motor scooters from which interested buyers can buy their choice of motor vehicle.


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or hope and pray to god for tech 4.
Let the id tech 3 engine die already, why making all of these crappy games when they suck so much, at least they could all work on xreal and put the effort to implement modern ways of rendering.
or hope and pray to god for tech 4.
Nobody is forcing you to play the games that suck, hax0r.
Hax0r, if you aren't happy with crappy games then go make one AAA FOSS game for us and then be happy otherwise keep your stupid comments to yourself.
L33F3R, aye sir i do agree with you...
manners are for tables
but i always need to give props to nice people.
Why "hope" for id tech4? Carmack said they were going to release it someday, didnt say when but that it would be released.
things change. carmack may have forfit his power to do so with the sale of ID.


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12 CFR 40.4 - Initial privacy notice to consumers required.
Title 12 published on 2014-01-01
The following are only the Rules published in the Federal Register after the published date of Title 12.
For a complete list of all Rules, Proposed Rules, and Notices view the Rulemaking tab.
Title 12 published on 2014-01-01
The following are ALL rules, proposed rules, and notices (chronologically) published in the Federal Register relating to 12 CFR 40 after this date.
GPO FDSys XML | Text type regulations.gov FR Doc. 2014-05826 RIN 1557-AD76 Docket No. ID OCC-2014-0005 DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency Final rule. Effective March 21, 2014. 12 CFR Parts 4, 5, 7, 10, 11, 16, 19, 24, 34, and 40 The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) is removing regulations concerning registration of mortgage loan originators, and regulations relating to privacy of consumer financial information. Rulemaking authority for these rules transferred to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau on July 21, 2011 pursuant to Title X of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, and these OCC rules are therefore no longer operative. The OCC also is amending its regulations to update its address to reflect its move to a new headquarters building, to update the address of its Freedom of Information Act web portal, and to update its Web site address.


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General impression in Pakistan is that this dual national has support of some hidden hands. But as regards any support from Army or Judiciary is concerned it seems to be out of place at this critical juncture when the country is preparing for the general elections.
The army has historically tried to interfere in the political process. When direct intervention is not possible, they create a "political diversion", and bring in a "messiah". In the past, they created the MQM, by creating Mr. Altaf Hussain (a taxi driver in Chicago) as a political leader. He is now a monster, who is out of control. Time will tell. However, historically speaking, the army has been Pakistan's biggest liability - both in political and monetary terms.
" ...historically speaking, the army has been Pakistan's biggest liability - both in political and monetary terms."
I think it only fair to point out that, historically, there has been natural division in the army, but since division in the army is almost always problematic in instances of a national emergency, the nature of the divisions have always been downplayed in the public utterances of army people, with the consequence that speculation as to its nature often obscures whatever might actually be specifically true.
Noted - however, the people of Pakistan would have developed their institutions. In reality, the army decimated all civilian institutions, primarily to eliminate any competition. In fact, they have destroyed the ethos of the army itself. It is no longer a fighting machine - army officers routinely seek careers in the civil service, the foreign service, in the military's own commercial conglomerates and in the hundreds of land development schemes. Defense of the country is no longer the primary objective.
What you write, L6QjhvJGVk, might have much truth to it. Yet, even if so, I wonder if statements like ...
"In reality, the army decimated all civilian institutions, primarily to eliminate any competition. In fact, they have destroyed the ethos of the army itself. It is no longer a fighting machine - army officers routinely seek careers in the civil service, the foreign service, in the military's own commercial conglomerates and in the hundreds of land development schemes. Defense of the country is no longer the primary objective."
... are likely to bring about the change in behaviour and attitude needed amongst the people who, having joined the Army with a more idealistic intention, are now in a position to restore the vital ethos that, from my perspective, Gen. Musharraf seemed to embody as head of the Armed Services -- the ethos required to maintain Pakistan's independent status as a peace and prosperity loving Asian culture.
Sometimes, exaggeration is helpful to gaining supportive attention to the delineation of egregious social abuse. But sometimes it has the opposite effect. Accuracy at all times seems to me to be a safer, if more time-consuming, approach to using language to vitalizing effect.
Good luck in your obviously sincere, informed, and passionate efforts to help Pakistan make real in the present the aims of its founders.
Your points have merit. On Gen. Musharraf - when he came on the scene he was welcomed by the liberals in the country. However, he was too weak in terms of controlling his own constituency (i.e., the corps commanders and senior generals). They saw his regime as a blank check to make money - and they did. On the economy, he was indecisive as well - i.e., he announced the construction of the Kalabagh Dam 5 times (thrice on national TV), but failed to build it. He appointed a Prime Minister who had no domestic standing, as was, as a consequence, a mere puppet. Dictatorship can be very useful in a country like Pakistan. However, then you need a very "cerebral dictator" who can fast track economic and social reforms - e.g., Lee Kwan Yew.
Thanks, L6QjhvJGVk. Your observations about the Pakistani Army are in some consistency with what I learned about 2 years ago in the Gerrard India Bazaar of Toronto. In other places I have heard the same high estimation as yours of Lee Kwan Yew's leadership. As to the potential of a 'very cerebral' dictator being again very useful in a country like Pakistan, I think it also worth pointing out here that Lee Kwan Yew led a country that, geographically, was not at all of comparable size and diversity to Pakistan.
Given that Pakistan continues to need a strong army, although not such an expensive or interventionist one, perhaps, as it has had in the past, and given the extent to which a faith of some kind permeates strongly its predominantly muslim society, what seems to me to be next required is the building of an institutional capacity for data-and-equanimity based problem-solving conversation. Does that make sense to you?
Your point is valid - Singapore is a small place with a lower level of complexity. Interesting that you managed to pick up political insights at Toronto's Bazaar. I have just visited once - to eat at the Kabul Kabab House - great food. I digress - there have been dictators like Ataturk who had to handle very complex situations.
Your comment that "given that Pakistan continues to need a strong army" is interesting, particularly given "the extent to which a faith of some kind permeates strongly its predominantly muslim society". My views on this issue are slightly unconventional, and are as follows:-
- Religion is a force that can merely create a nation-state, but it cannot sustain the state.
- Pakistan was created on the basis on the "two nation theory". Clearly the theory failed when Bangladesh decided to break-away.
- Partition of the sub-continent was a silly idea, and it could have been avoided if the Congress Party had been more magnanimous.
- The 20th century saw the creation of 2 theocratic states (Pakistan and Israel) - an inherent contradiction in a secular era.
- Both states will not survive for more than a few decades.
- Notwithstanding the above, a large army is not needed for defense purposes in the nuclear age.
- The current structure of the Pakistan army is highly exploitative (economically) and has a very strong Islamic mindset.
- I think that detente between India and Pakistan is highly desirable for both sides.
- The key hurdles like the army (in Pakistan) and militant Hindu parties (in India) are merely delaying a process that is inevitable.
I hope that I have addressed the points that you raised.


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Wesleyan Life Magazine
Click to read current issue:
(The above link is the easy-viewer version, meant to be read online. To download the magazine to your mobile device or computer, see below.)
The digital magazine has interactive links on many pages that enrich the magazine with picture galleries, videos, and other resources. The magazine of The Wesleyan Church provides information and inspiration about God's work in North America and beyond.
The print version of Wesleyan Life magazine is distributed to churches and individuals upon request. Sign-up for a subscription by submitting your name and address to our office. You will receive the quarterly publication at your requested address along with an invitation to consider a voluntary subscription. Suggested donation of $15 annually.
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Phone: (317) 774-7900 [ Office hours are weekdays between 8:00am-4:30pm EST ]
The Team:
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Earth measurements
Redirected from Gross
this wiki
Earth measurements are used as the standard units of measure used in the United Federation of Planets.
[show]Length Edit
A meter (m) is the fundamental SI unit of length, defined as the distance traveled by light in a vacuum in 1/299,792,458 second.
In the Imperial units system 1 foot ≡ 0.3048 m.
A centimeter (cm) is an SI unit of length equal to 1/100 of a meter.
1 cm ≈ 0.39370 inches.
- See also: Centimeter at Wikipedia
A kilometer (km) is an SI unit of length equal to one thousand meters.
1 km ≈ 0.62137 miles.
A millimeter (mm) is an SI unit of length equal to 1/1,000 of a meter.
1 mm ≈ 0.03937 inches.
- See also: Millimeter at Wikipedia
Micron Edit
A micron is another name for micrometer (µm), an SI unit of length equal to 1 millionth of a meter (1
×10−6 m).1 mil ≡ 25.4 μm.
- See also: Micrometer at Wikipedia
Mile Edit
A mile (mi) was originally one thousand paces, or 5,000 Roman feet (~4,850 Imperial feet). A later British reform changed the mile to 5,280 Imperial feet so that it would equal eight furlongs.
1 mi ≡ 1.609344 km.
Nautical Mile Edit
A nautical mile was based on the length of one minute of arc of a great circle.
1 nautical mile = 1852 m (6076.12 ft)
- See also: Nautical mile at Wikipedia
A foot (ft, plural feet) is an Imperial unit of length equal to twelve inches, or one third of a yard.
1 ft ≡ 0.3048 m.
Inch Edit
An inch (in) was originally based on the width of the average man's thumb, or the length of three barleycorns. It was later redefined based on SI units.
1 in ≡ 2.54 cm.
Light year Edit
(Main Article: Light year)
One light year is the distance that light travels in one Earth year. It is approximately equal to 9.46
×1015 meters, or 5.88 ×1012 miles.Mass Edit
Kilogram Edit
A kilogram (kg) is the fundamental SI unit of mass.
In the Imperial units system 1 pound ≡ 0.45359237 kg.
Gram Edit
A gram (g) is an SI unit of mass equal to 1/1,000 of a kilogram.
1 ounce ≡ 28.349523 g.
Milligram Edit
A milligram (mg) is an SI unit of mass equal to 1/1,000 of a gram.
Time Edit
See: Time measurements
Volume Edit
Liter Edit
A liter (L or l) is a derived SI unit of volume, equal to 1/1,000 cubic meters (1 cubic decimeter).
In the Imperial units system 1 gallon ≡ 4.54609 L (~277.42 cubic inches).
In the US system, 1 gallon ≡ 231 cubic inches ≡ 3.785411784 l.
milliliter Edit
A milliliter (ml) is an SI unit of volume equal to 1/1,000 of a liter.
In the Imperial system 1 fluid ounce ≡ 28.4130625 ml.
In the US system, 1 fluid ounce ≡ 29.5735295625 ml.
- See also: Milliliter at Wikipedia
cc Edit
A cc (cubic centimeter, official cm3) is a measure of volume equal to one cubic centimeter (cm), which is also equal to one milliliter (ml). The cc is a common term for milliliter used in measuring the dosage of liquid medicines by volume.
1 cubic inch ≡ 16.387964 ml ≡ 16.387964 cc.
- See also: cc at Wikipedia
- See also: Drug dosage
cubic meter Edit
During a sensor sweep of the Neutral zone, the USS Enterprise-E found 25 particles of dust per cubic meter. (Star Trek: First Contact)
Units Edit
Gross Edit
A gross is equal to a dozen dozen.


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Description:Sun 300GB 15K RPM 3.5-inch Hot-Plug Fibre Channel Hard DrivePart Number(s)Sun Part# XTC-FC1CF-300G15KZRoHS Part# 540-7156
Overview:Sun FCAL Hard Drives are provided with the speed reliability and functionality needed for today's systems. All Sun Hard Drives are designed and tested for compatibility and interoperability in the systems for which they are intended in order to provide the immediate flawless integration expected from Sun storage solutions. Specifications: CategorySun HardDrive Sub-Category15K GenerationFibre Channel Part NumberXTC-FC1CF-300G15KZ Products ID456791 TypeHard Drive Hot-Swap Form Factor3.5 inch x 1 inch Plug-in Module Capacity300GB Interface TypeFC-AL Data Transfer Rate2GB/s Rotational Speed15000RPM Pre-Failure WarrantyYes


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Snoozies are not a sock and not a slipper, it is a cross between the two, making them a foot coverings or footie!! Made of 100% Polyester. Footies includes white soft fleece lining inside, unique Mongolian fur on the out side and non skid sole on the bottom. (This way you won't slip on the hardwood or tile floors!) Machine wash cold. Tumble dry low heat. No bleach.
Sizes run as follows: Small (5-6), Medium (7-8), Large (9-10), and X-Large (11-12).
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Eight Lessons in Mobile Usability Testing
If you're new to mobile usability testing, fear not. It is not as hard as you might think but there are some key differences from testing a traditional website in a lab that you need to be aware of.
Over the past year I have done everything from testing a quit-smoking app with a woman whilst she breastfed her five-week-old on her sofa to testing a mobile car insurance website in a lab. I've conducted mobile usability testing with no recording technology out in the field as well as testing using a mobile sled system with webcams that feed into Morae usability test software.
In the hopes that I can save other UX professionals time and effort, here are eight things that I have learned from all of this mobile usability testing.
Lesson #1: How to test mobile paper prototypes
One of my favorite quotes comes from Frank Lloyd Wright: "Fix it on the drafting board with an eraser or on the construction site with a sledgehammer." Testing paper prototypes with users has its merits but how do you test paper prototypes of mobile screens that require scrolling?
Showing users a paper mock-up of a full screen does not really test what they would do when they only see the first screen. My solution was to develop a cardboard template of a smart phone with two slits through which a paper prototype can be inserted. This simulates what users would see on one screen. You can easily create your own or download our smartphone template for paper prototype testing and print or stick on cardboard.
Lesson #2: Limitations with screen recorders
The obvious benefit of a using a smartphone screen recorder is that it is unobtrusive and does not get in the way of testing. Users can use the device as they typically would in any context or environment.
Unfortunately, Apple isn't big on approving screen-recording apps for sale in the iTunes store. There are screen recording apps such as Display Recorder (from Cydia) that you can use to record screen activity but personally, I don't want to jail break my iPhone in order to record a mobile test session. There are a few Android screen recorder apps available, but even if you find a screen recorder app for your smartphone, there are a few issues.
- Screen recorders don't typically record users' gestures, such as trying to tap 10 times on a tiny link or a user attempting to use a slider on a touch screen.
- They often have limited recording times and capabilities. You will fill your phone up very quickly if recording one-hour sessions.
- They generally can't be used to record screen activity of another app so you may be limited to recording mobile web sessions only.
- You can't use the test participant's own device unless you want to install an expensive app on their iPhone, which they may not be too keen about.
- They don't integrate with usability testing software such as Morae, which allows observers to unobtrusively observe a session in real time.
- You can't typically record user's facial expressions and verbal comments like you can with standard usability testing software such as Morae.
There are two iOS apps that I know of that partially address the last issue. One is called UX Recorder. It does a reasonably good job of recording screen activity, captures some user gestures (showing circles for taps and arrows for swipes), and records a user's voice and face (picture-in-picture) using the iPhone's own camera. Its biggest drawback is you can't use it to test mobile apps. You can only use it to test mobile web.
The second is a relatively new iOS app is called Magitest, which, in my view, is more usable than UX Recorder. Magitest captures tap gestures only at this point (although they are soon to add swipe capture, I believe), as well as user's voice and face using the iPhone camera (picture-in-picture). More importantly, using Magitest Native you can also record screen activity using other iOS apps. It is also quite reasonable priced.
Magitest app and example output
Lesson #3: Benefits of using mobile testing sleds
The alternative to screen recorders is a mobile or tablet testing sled that will allow you to mount a small camera over the mobile device. There are a few key benefits in using sleds.
You can record users' gestures, which are really important for mobile and tablet usability testing. We once had a user trying about 10 times to use a slider on a tablet before giving up. You can also plug your sled webcam into your computer and input into testing software such as Morae. The great thing about Morae is that it lets you input two cameras so you can also record the user's face and voice using a second webcam. You can then record user's screen activity, gestures, face, and voice and stream all of it live across your network to an observation room or create video clips later to effectively communicate issues to stakeholders.
Example output using a mobile sled for testing with Morae test software
Nearly all the UX practitioners I know are using DIY sled systems that they have made themselves. We have investigated a number of mobile test sleds and developed a few of our own over the last two years. Here are some of the things to be aware of:
- The sled must be light and easy for test participants to hold.
- The sled should not slow users down or get in their way.
- The sled should accommodate different sized devices so that you can use test participants' own devices.
- The camera mount should ideally be adjustable to accommodate user preferences and different devices.
- The sled should allow users to easily switch device as well as orientation i.e. portrait to landscape view without having to move the camera position.
- The whole sled set up must still be stable and not move during testing.
Lesson #4: What cameras work best for mobile testing
When we started out with our first sled, we used two Logitech webcams: C910 and C615. These webcams offer good quality, high definition recordings, plug into Morae test software and have easy to use drivers. The main disadvantages are the size and weight. The Logitech C910 is also difficult to connect to a sled.
We found the Microsoft Lifecam offers good 720p resolution, works with Morae, and is easy to connect to the sled as it can bolt on. The downsides of this camera are also the size and weight, plus less flexibility in the camera mount and camera software we find difficult to use.
An alternative to webcams is the IPevo document camera. What we like most about this camera is that it smaller and very lightweight, has a very high resolution, plugs into Morae, and comes with a flexible plastic arm. The down side is that is it difficult to attach to a sled and the frame rate is a bit slow and jerky as it is meant for recording documents.
Our favourite webcam is the Hue HD webcam, which is very light, offers good resolution and frame rates, comes with a flexible bendable arm, and plugs directly into a PC and Morae. It even comes in pretty colours such as pink and green, but as we don't want to draw attention to the camera we use plain old black.
Lesson #5: There are times when you should use no technology
So far, I've mainly focussed on mobile testing technology but there are times when I advocate using no technology (with the exception of the user's phone, of course). As I mentioned, I recently conducted testing of a quit-smoking app designed for pregnant women. We ended up recruiting mothers with babies who had recently quit smoking or were attempting to quit. Given the sensitive nature of the topic (women who had tried to quit smoking when pregnant) and who I was testing with (new mothers with babies), I needed to conduct many of the test sessions in users' homes.
As a mother with young children, it was easy to build rapport with these women and for them to open up to me as I attempted to make the testing as casual as possible. One of the test sessions was even run on a participant's sofa while she was breastfeeding her 5-month-old. She had baby in one arm and tested the app with her iPhone in her other hand. Obviously it was not appropriate to record these sessions in any way and the intrusion of any additional technology would have potentially affected the results. Sometimes it is better not to record at all.
Lesson #6: Context may not always be as important as you think
We hear that context is critical for mobile design but it's more important for some types of sites or apps than others. There are some interesting mobile web statistics from comScore that actually indicate that the highest use of mobile devices is actually early in the morning and after 8pm at night, presumably when most people are home.
My advice is that you need to consider where users are likely to use your app. For instance, many users of the quit smoking app for pregnant women said they would probably use the app alone at home when they have limited resolve and their phone is on hand. We also worked on a public transport journey planner for mobile, which would much more likely be used when users are out and about, walking down the street. For that mobile site, context was critical.
Lesson #7: How to simulate users' context and environment
In a lab environment, we may have a stable wireless connection and might not be moving about, but this doesn't happen often in real life. People use their phones on trains, buses, and while waiting in a queue. Signals drop out. Activity often occurs in short bursts (such as during TV ad breaks). So how do we test for this?
One of our insurance clients was interested in understanding users' expectations regarding what would happen in the event they lost their signal or left their session and returned to it 30 minutes later. Halfway through their task of getting an insurance quote, I actually stopped users and said "imagine you were doing this on a train and the signal dropped out as you went through a tunnel." I then asked them what they would expect to happen and showed them a screenshot to help determine what they would do. So even though we could not test on a train, I managed to simulate that experience.
When I conducted testing of the quit-smoking mobile app, some users preferred to come into our test lab. Instead of using our lab's test room with cameras, desks, and computers, I tried to recreate a "home" like environment, running the sessions on our sofa in our test observation room without using any technology to record the session. Even though this wasn't the users' true context, we simulated their home environment and the test outcomes were consistent with sessions I ran in other users' homes.
Lesson #8: Employing users' own technology will discover more issues
When we conducted testing of a mobile insurance website, we found that Galaxy and iPhone users loved the pickers for date input. However, I had one user with a HTC phone that really struggled with the date picker for inputs such as years. The year values in the date picker were very slow, and he scrolled quickly it scrolled the whole page.
When testing a public transport journey planner, we used users' own mobile carrier network connections and some screens/search results were really slow to load. This had an effect on the user experience and satisfaction. This was good information to understand and pass on to the client prior to launch.
By employing user's own devices and network connections we found issues that we would not have picked up if we had just used our iPhone and fast office wireless connection.
In conclusion
With nearly a third of all page views now coming from mobile and tablets in some Western countries (and even more in many developing countries) UX practitioners and researchers need to embrace mobile. Mobile is no longer an area that a few UX people specialize in, and we need to start designing and testing everything for smartphones and tablets as well as computers.
Hopefully this article will save UX practitioners new to mobile some of the pain I have been through.
If you are interested in finding out more about our upcoming mobile test sled, which we are hoping to make available to the wider UX community, please contact email@example.com.
Image of man using mobile courtesy Shutterstock.
Add new comment
Hi Tania, great article!
Would like to check with everyone here on two things related to mobile usability testing...
1) In testing mobile websites, which browser do we recommend testers to use? Do we do it by the analytics of the website?
2) Do we use the same participants from previous tests? E.g if we did a test first, and revised our designs and recruited again, do we recruit the same people (or at least some people from the previous tests?)
Hi Yan Ling
To answer your questions:
1) Which browser - this would depend on what device you are using and what browser your users typically use. You may be able to get this information from web analytics. You can also ask users what they typically use. When we test on a PC, we often have the site we are testing ready on at least 3 browsers and ask users which they typically use then open that browser. With mobile, users probably mostly use their native browser e.g. an iPhone user probably will use Safari (unless they have downloaded another browser).
2) Re using the same participants from previous tests, this is never a good idea as you might get a recurring error (i.e. you may find an issue specific to a couple of users in Round 1 which would probably recur in Round 2 as well as you are using the same users but it may not occur if you were using different users. Also, you may make changes based on what Round 1 users' feedback. This of course will probably test well in Round 2 if you use the same users as you have incorporated their feedback. However, this feedback may be due to their weird mental model and may not reflect what other users would do. If you make changes after round 1 it is always best to test with different users in round 2 to make sure your iterated design (incorporating feedback from round 1 users) works for a different set of users. Hope this makes sense.
For Android app testing, how about using a Windows touchscreen laptop like the ASUS transformer combined with the Android Emulator for PC and Morae?
Just wondering if anyone has had success with that.
Tania, great read. Lesson #7 is especially valuable. Apps need to be taken out for a ride and testing in actual user environments. No more comfy testing, no more assumptions. Get it out and test it. Here is a read on this very topic - http://mlabs.boston-technology.com/blog/mobile-app-user-experience-testing-whats-the-fuss-all-about
You might want to check this cheap 3D printed device out when wanting to film users using their mobile devices:
Hi Tania! Great article! I just discovered a pretty solid mobile usability testing combo, using SolidifyApp and UXRecorder in combination! I'm pretty pumped about the solution! I blogged about it at http://userexperiencerocks.wordpress.com/2013/05/09/mobile-usability-testing-magic/
Thank you for sharing your research on the topic!
Hi Tania, you've covered a lot of ground here... and you're right about the benefits of using a sled.
These benefits prompted me to design and produce Mr. Tappy, a rig to help capture interactions with mobile devices.
Really good article, thank you.
Though I have to disagree with you on #6 (at least with the title of that lesson). When people are using the app at home that does not mean the context is not important. The context is: being at home, probably in a relaxed, laid back environment, with a decent internet connection etc. etc. That is providing context for the use of your application and this can fuel your design decisions.
I personally think context is important for any application, because it's always present, whatever that context may be.


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I am about to begin my Grail project again now that I have a real work space to build it in. Finally moved out of that one room apartment! (BTW I'm married now! )
But before I begin to sculpt the foam I need a few pointers on the fiberglass. What is best to use? What pound cloth? What resin? And, most especially, how thick will the hull be? That is very important since I want this boat to be as near 72nd scale as possible.
I have tried again and again to build this sub but have failed for one reason or another. The last attempt was the closest but I am convinced that if I finished that particular hull it would be too heavy to do anything more than sink once it was rigged for R/C.
Most of you know what I want to build. But for any newbies lurking about, here is a link to my dream: The NAUTILUS.
As always, any help or advice will be greatly appreciated. But I really need to know how thick the hull will be so I can subtract that from the hull's diameter.
- Leelan