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December 6th, 2011.
SEO Industry Survey Results [Infographic]
A few weeks ago we asked a few folks on Twitter to complete a short (okay, maybe not that short) 22 question survey, looking specifically at the business side to working in SEO. We asked the all important questions, including:
- Where are you based?
- What kind of business are you?
- How many people work in the business?
- What other services do you offer besides SEO?
- How many clients do you currently manage?
- Do you contract your clients for a set period of time?
- What is your usual client contract arrangement (i.e. how do you charge for your work)?
- Your average charge per month for SEO services?
- Typical client retention period?
- Biggest issues facing your business today?
- Biggest barrier to sales?
- Biggest source of leads?
- What activities are included in a typical campaign?
- Link building tactics- what tactics do you employ for the majority of your campaigns?
- Do you buy links? (what SEO survey would be complete without this question? ;))
- What 3rd party tools do you subscribe to?
- What keyword tools do you use primarily?
- How long on average do you spend reporting to a single client?
- What metrics do you include in your standard reports?
- How did you get into SEO?
- What skills do you consider to be the most important skills for an SEO?
- Have you ever had a site penalised?
The results of the survey are pretty interesting- take a look for yourself below:
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We'll be releasing the source data as promised in the next few days. Let us know how your company compares to these averages in the comments below!
November 17th, 2011.
Pop-up shops & binary code: The future of high street shopping?
One of my colleagues here at Datadial talked about the peculiar QR code and its uses previously on this blog. Fast forward to now and it seems to have evolved (or caught up with Japan who created them, since technically we live in the stone ages in comparison).
eBay are getting in on the act…
A post from the good folks at Econsultancy informs us of a new-age phenomenon set up by eBay, that will see customers sent online to buy goods only after scanning their bar codes with QR compatible devices.
After reading it, I started thinking about the future of shopping as a whole, with Google taking over the virtual world and taking on everyone from Apple (with Google Music) to Facebook (with Google+) are we living in a world where soon instead of buying food in-store we will be asked to produce our phones first, to then scan a code, pay online and wait for said food to be delivered? Could it become as outrageous as to be used in convenience stores for quick snacks like a chocolate bar or a packet of crisps?
If this is the present already, what does the future hold…?
Both funny and annoyingly true right? …and that's just online shopping. If we are entering into a world of offline/online mergers what else could happen? I mean sure, in theory there are many problems it could solve:
- Store space would no longer be an issue (just like it no longer was for Cassette's, CD's and vinyl after iTunes was born)
- No heavy bags to carry home
- Lesser feelings of guilt because money becomes virtual too; if we can't see it disappear from our purses then we might forget what we spent
- Scheduling goods to arrive at a time that works best for us
However, what if the downfalls included…
- The wrong item turning up at the door
- The annoyance of having to exchange an item and there being no store front to take it to (or in-store employee to blame for the journey)
- No bag to carry (everybody enjoys a little logo-bragging from time to time)
- That silly little "sorry, you were out when we called" card that the postman surely writes before he even knocks the door in anticipation of you taking longer than he'd like to walk down the stairs & answer it…
To conclude, I agree that this pop-up store (due to launch near Oxford Street, London on Dec 1st) is a great PR stunt for eBay, but is there any real use for the QR code if most people are happy just Googling a URL? – Or perhaps it's just me that really dislikes the matrix-esque appearance of those ugly squares being forced on the nation…
November 17th, 2011.
Ipads convert at double the rate of desktops
Affiliate window have released data that shows the huge lead that iPads have gained over other mobile devices when it comes to acquisitions.
The data cover 81.9m visits to merchants and 1.57m sales. Admittedly most of affiliate traffic is usually acquisition traffic but the results are also borne out by other data from other suppliers.
Fashion sites showed the highest conversion rates showing double the percentage of total sales of other sectors. This is not true for other devices.
Ipad users are converting at a higher rate than desktop users despite a poorer user experience in some cases. Why might this be so?
According to Affiliate Window's Matt Swan:
iPad users typically have higher amounts of disposable income, know what they want to purchase and are using their iPad's to transact. We typically see that a lot of desktop traffic is where consumers are in the research phase. This traffic is not necessarily going to convert and is why we are seeing lower conversion rates through desktops.
In addition, the way in which people are using Ipads and tablets may also impact this. People use their iPads at home, perhaps browsing while in bed on a Sunday morning, or on the sofa while watching TV. In short, it's more of a lean-back experience. The fact that jumping between websites on an iPad is also slightly more painful on an Ipad may diminish the desire to price compare in great detail, particularly if price is not the largest decision factor.
Only 16% of companies are conducting any kind of usability testing on tablets, but these stats show that retailers (ad fashion brands especially) need to take notice of the iPad.
October 27th, 2011.
Google AdWords: Updated Focus on Quality Score
Earlier this month Google announced changes to the importance Google AdWords places on Quality Score, which is likely to affect a number of advertisers. Based on tests carried out in Brazil, Spanish-speaking Latin America, Spain and Portugal, Google's Adam Juda announced that the update will be rolled out globally over the coming weeks.
The update places more importance on the relevancy of a landing page when calculating Quality Score- a component in the formula which determines where your ad displays in search results and your cost per click when competing with other advertisers. Essentially- it's now more important than ever to ensure that landing pages used for PPC are as relevant and optimised as possible- rewarded by higher positions with lower cost-per-click costs.
In an interview with Search Engine Land's contributor Pamela Parker, Google's Director of Product Management- Jonathan Alferness suggests that the current user experience for AdWords users could be improved:
What we've seen is that there are ads available in the auction that are as good a quality as the top ads. But the landing pages — the merchant sites, the advertiser landing pages — are of much higher quality than the ads that we see at the top of our auction… This means the user experience isn't what it could be…
In the end, we believe that this will result in better quality experience for the users.
How will this change affect you?
With added emphasis on landing page Quality Score, it's important to be aware of this change and now is the time to assess your current landing pages. We can expect to see an initial change within AdWords as this change initially rolls out to the rest of the world:
As the changes roll out, some campaigns will see variation in keyword Quality Scores and typical ad position. Within a couple weeks, things should stabilize and we expect most campaigns will not see a significant change in overall performance.
Past this, sites with lower quality landing pages may expect to see lower quality score values, lower ad positions, and possibly higher cost-per-click prices when competing against advertisers with better quality landing pages.
October 17th, 2011.
Paid Ads Get 37% Improved CTR on Tablet vs. PC
Findings from Marin Software's Paid Search Quarterly Benchmarking Report, suggest that if you use one of the new tablets, as opposed to a PC, it's possible to increase the click through rate on paid ads by more than a third. The research was based on a mapping of how much was spent on paid search by almost a thousand agencies and advertisers across the world, giving a total for all of £1.3 billion.
More than 90% of the annual cost of spending on paid search came from PCs, tablet users spent only 2% and the other 5% cam from smartphone users. The trend tracking was undertaken in the third quarter. According to the report the CTR or click through rate for the ads on tablets was much higher than on PCs. However, when it came to the advertiser's average CPC or post per click the rate on tablets was 29% less than on smartphones and PCs. The volume of clicks for advertisers with Bing and Yahoo was up 43%, yet there was a drop of 10% in CPC.
The growing use of tablets could mean a shift in advertisers' strategies for paid search ads, according to Ed Stevenson, the Managing Director of EMEA and APAC for Martin Software He further added may change their strategies for advertising and spending to cope with the shift in browsing habits to things like the iPad. More importantly, advertisers may need to work on device specific programs to improve results. Coincidentally this report was released at the same time as the quarterly report from Google, stating that in the three months finishing the end of September, earnings rose to £6.16bn ($9.72bn), a rise of 33%.
March 11th, 2011.
Is this the future of linkbait?
I've just come across The Print Effect by Cartridge Save. If you haven't already seen it go take a look (then come right back… I'll wait).
What is it? It's a Twitter app that creates an infographic-like page for each Twitter user you enter. There have been similar things in the past, and this particular one I think is genius:
Why is this one a little different to the others? It appears the output content changes for different users (take a look at mine and Matt's- I've got badgers, Matt has cows!)
Why Do I Think This is Such a Cool Idea? (Aside from the cows, obviously)…
Linkbait is getting harder and harder- people are getting bored with infographics and the sharing element to infographics is somewhat limited (I'll happily forward on and link to good content but I'd do it even more if it's about me, the selfish human that I am). This takes on a new twist- linkbait via dynamic infographics!
What I like about this is it's a little different for every user, and people want to share (and link to) interesting things that are about themselves!
As an SEO I would've implemented a different URL structure to prevent creating hundreds of pages for each user, however judging by the shares this has already received I'd be surprised if it doesn't pick up a decent amount of links too.
Perhaps it's time to get a web developer involved as well as the designer or content writer when crafting your next linkbait campaign?
July 22nd, 2010.
A glimpse into the future of E-tailing over and beyond traditional e-commerce
I recently went to a talk on the different forms that e-tailing is taking over and beyond the traditional e-commerce site.
Below is a distilled version of the talk with just the best bits. A lot of these examples are only availabe in the US at the moment but by reading this you are getting ahead of the curve!
(The talk was by the big cheese at Pod1 – Fadi – so credit to him for researching it all)
E-commerce via Apps
Start accepting cash and card payments with Square. No contracts, monthly fees, or hidden costs. Effortlessly manage the money you take with an easy and intuitive interface. US only at the moment and only for payments less than $60 but one to watch for sure.
See corporate video
And a review on how it works
Google shopper (Android only)
This APP allows you to scan barcodes, the co
vers of books and media, and even search by voice – the app will tell you where you can buy the same product and at what price. Pretty nifty if it works!
It took 12 months for the location-based social network to attract one million users and by stark contrast; the second million only took three months. Ever since February 2010, the site has been registering over one million 'check-ins' a week.
See how it works:
New e-commerce software
Vendr create POP-UP shops – They say that you can create your e-commerce site within 15 minutes. These are basic obviously sites now but I guess they will improve. In any event they will probably do for many home based businesses.
from their site: "Works with your current website: Add a "store" button to your blog or website, and your store will simply pop-up over your content — no more sending your customers elsewhere to make a purchase. Vendr functions as a part of your existing site. "
Alvenda software allows you to create e-commerce shops within sites such as Facebook – Alvenda's first customer, 1-800-Flowers.com, launched during the Mother's Day holiday in 2009 and recognized a 10.5x lift in shopping activity by making it easier for people to shop.
New E-Tailing concepts
Cutting out the middle man – Harnessing the power of social media to revolutionise product manufacture and pricing.
For furtniture design and manufacture: You choose what makes it into our collection. Vote for your favourites and the most popular will be made available to order.
Buy early, pay less
The earlier you buy an air ticket, the less you pay. Now you can do the same with wine. Save £££!
Car Rental
WhipCar is the first service in the world where a car owner can rent out their vehicle for money, whenever they are not using it. WhipCar pairs sensible drivers with spare car time
May 18th, 2010.
Best & Worst of FOWD London Day 1
The Future of Web Design conference is amazing this year – here's a quick update after Day One.
The Best
The format of this year's conference is tons better than last year. The atmosphere of the Brewery is great, and the food (which is also outstanding) at the break times gives people a chance to talk to each other and network. It has been much easier this year to meet people and talk to other designers.
It's really hard to choose a favourite speaker because they're all so great! I think jQuery for Designers is probably going to have the most impact on my day to day work because it has encouraged me to take a new step into jQuery.
The design clinic time was great, and it was a wonderful opportunity to talk to designers you really respect. I got some great feedback from Mike Kus, who has to be one of my all time favourite web designers because of his original work.
The Worst
Definitely had to be font.com's sponsor slot. Not only were they the ugliest slides of the day, the introduction was dated (we know about using @font-face already) and then followed by a whole sales pitch on why we should all buy their service. It was very amusing to see the tweets coming in during the talk!
Don't get me wrong, their service is great and no doubt I'll be using it soon, but the talk and presentation definitely gets labelled the worst, after everything else was so amazing.
More to come tomorrow, but in summary…
(I'll add links to slideshows and downloads as I get them)
Play. Destroy. Create. from Brendan Dawes
I loved his reference to maths and nature, and seeing how he had turned that into something new. It's about observing things like the trend of technical stuff to non techy people. Some of the things he was showing was simply play to explore and provoke reactions. He encouraged us to play, have passion and love what we do!
How to Get Started with CSS3 from Dan Cederholm
After doing a lot of CSS3 work already, I wasn't expecting to get much from this session, but was very pleasantly surprised. I now have a list of things I want to try, tools to use, and new ideas generated from this session. Definitely ideal for people new to CSS3, but still lots of great stuff in there for those of us who have already been using it.
jQuery for Designers: All You Need to Code (Remy Sharp)
Very inspiring stuff, and I'm now eager to take the plunge into jQuery!
Download slideshow
Accessibility in Web Design Robin Christopherson
I've seen Robin speak a few times, and each time he has something new and very informative. This time he encouraged mobile versions of websites, as the format of them is also much more accessible. He also encouraged the use of Text Captcha because it's accessible, free and offers a comprehensive API. You Tube are now also providing automatic captioning on their videos!
Learning to Love Humans: Emotional Interface Design (Aarron Walter)
Making things usable is not enough – we should also make them enjoyable. Don't compromise on the base needs for t»he user, but look for ways you can add that extra layer of emotive enjoyment – like the Mailchimp quotes!
UX Masterclass with Web Standardistas Web Standardistas
This flowed on really well from the Emotional Interface Design and looked at the secret for making something that is usable really great. The secret is YOU!
Smart Tips for Wireframing Brad Haynes
Wireframes help communication, focus and workflow. This session was a good practical reminder of why we should be using them and looked at which techniques to use where, including some good tools.


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Green Festival Speakers
Ase Dance Theater Collective
Adia Tamar Whitaker is a professional dancer/choreographer from the BayArea. Her current artistic work focuses on NeoFolklore of the AfricanDiaspora. She is dedicated to preserving the past, present and futureof the African presence in the New World.
Since2000,Adia and her company Ase Dance Theatre Collective (Brooklyn, NY) havepresented work that links contemporary modern dance, originalvernacular movement, and traditional dance theater from the AfricanDiaspora toconceptual ideas in the human experience. Her belief that all forms ofAfrican drum and dance facilitate a process of spiritual awakeninginspire her to create rich and transformative art that uplifts thesoul.

subset: commoncrawl


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New Quarters©
(Feedback is appreciated)
Part 8 Anniversary
It was already March, and it was their first year anniversary. They each had talked about how they would celebrate it. However, with all that was going on with the construction of the inn and the many disasters happening there, neither one had the time to make any special arrangements for the evening. Also, since it was in the middle of the week, they had agreed to postpone it until Friday evening when they could go and stay in the city and make a weekend of it.
Addy had been home all morning taking care of some of her legal work. Karen had been at the inn. She came home for lunch because there was so much going on over there, and the chaos was such, that her nerves couldn't take it. She needed to get away from it all, at least for a little while.
"I don't know if those people know what they are doing! Addy, sometimes things that look so simple turn out to be a project of its own! If I had more time I would have planned all this to the last detail and would have gotten the right people and…" Karen rummaged through the refrigerator looking for food.
"Karen! You can't do everything yourself. Besides, those people are experts and they know what they are doing. Constructions jobs are like that. First there is destruction and everything looks like a great big disaster and then things begin to look better and then when they are done, it will all be perfect. You just have to trust the people who know. Here let me fix you something to eat." Addy was putting together two turkey sandwiches. Karen pulled two glasses from the cabinet and pour water in them. She set them on the island and sat on one of the kitchen stool. She grabbed a bag of chips and put some on each plate next to the sandwiches. They started to eat.
"You say that because you haven't been there lately and you haven't seen what's going on…it's maddening! It looks like a bomb went off! I doubt very much those people know what they are doing. I'm trying to be patient, but it's really exasperating! Oh God I think I'm getting a headache! You should see the mess they have! I mean you can't hardly tell where things were or are going to be, there are exposed pipes everywhere, walls have been knocked down, there's a hole in the ceiling, the floors are gone…..it looks like a war zone! I don't think it's going to be possible to put everything back together! I already see ourselves looking for other people to finish this and the money……the money just running down the drain! I don't know how I ever let you convince me to get into this!"
Karen had never gone through a renovation project. Addy, instead, having owned a house, was very much aware of how messy things could get before they begin to take shape.
Addy came over and kissed her on the head. "Stop talking and finish your lunch."
Karen had her mouthful. "Did you hear any of what I've just said?"
"Yes, I did." Addy was unusually calm considering how fiery she was some times. "And you have nothing to say? Aren't you worried? Your money, the one I didn't want you to spend on this 'money pit' is running down the drain and here you are so quiet, so calm!"
"It's money, Karen, easy come, easy go." Karen had finished her last bite as Addy took her plate and put it in the dishwasher.
"Aaaagh! I swear woman. I don't understand how sometimes you get all worked up about little things and then with something that really matter you are so calm! I don't know how is it that all your clients are crazy about you, when you have that attitude towards money!"
"Oh! First, I think it's good that we don't get worked up for the same things because that way we can calm each other down. Second, about my clients, it's very easy, when they see that I don't worry, they stop worrying."
Karen chuckled, amazed of what she had just heard. "Addy! But things don't work that way! People worry! Money is important."
"Yes, money is important, so I help them not to worry, easy. Except you. I cannot get you not to worry! You are a worry maniac, the money, the doors, and the gun. Why can't you just relax?"
"Somebody has to worry when others don't."
Addy picked up the sarcasm in Karen's comment and sat next to her. "Ker, is not that I don't worry, I do. It's just that to me other things matter more. You matter. Everything else is secondary. When I see you all worked up like this, I worry. I worry about you worrying so much! Please, learn to take things as they are. They are just things, they can be fixed. If you get sick on account of the worrying, then what?"
Karen had been looking at her, but was now looking at the floor.
"Maybe you shouldn't be going back there any more today. Go upstairs and rest or read a book, or something."
"Are you crazy?!! Do you think I can have any peace when I know I have a bunch of inept people over there knocking down walls! I'm going back. Somebody with some brains should be there to, at least, make those pea brains aware of possible disasters." She got up to leave, but Addy ran after her and stopped her. "Babe! Please, don't worry so much. Everything will turn out fine. You'll see." Addy got close to her and kissed her. "Green eyes, I love you." Karen's heart was beating a little faster now, and she couldn't say much. She just smiled, kissed her and started to walk out.
"I'll be back by dinner time. Call me if you need me for anything." Anything usually had a double meaning. It could actually mean anything around the house that needed to be done or anything that needed to be picked up somewhere, or it could mean 'honey come home I want to make love to you and need you NOW!" It had happened before. Both had occasionally made the call and the other one had run home like mad to give due attention to any matter requiring it.
"Don't worry, babe, I have errands to run in town today."
"What errands?" What is she up to?! I wonder if she's working on some anniversary thing, even though we agreed not to. Hum. Shit! I need to get to town and get her something just in case.
"Nothing special, just the usual. Groceries, I also want to get a rug for the back door. I might also stop at the hardware store, since that is now one of my assigned duties." She smiled at Karen. Karen had been sending Addy to the hardware store because she didn't want to run the risk of coming across Mary. Karen smirked.
"Then I thought I would go check out that bakery on the other side of town to see what they have."
"How come you are always running errands?" As usual, once she overcame the fear of driving on the left side, she was unstoppable. Karen thought at times that she might need a tracking device to figure out where she was! However, to her credit, Addy knew every nook and cranny around town in virtually no time. She was decisive and ready to go anywhere and take on any task. Her energy and desire to learn and do made her very resourceful. She knew where everything was, knew her prices and most importantly, new everyone. Addy had a way to capture people's hearts, and the best part was that it was all so natural. People just loved her, the minute they saw her. Maybe it was that enchanting smile or the sweetness in her voice? Karen could never believe it.
"Karen Larsen, I plan things. Do you realize how far we are here from everything? Do you realize that we are planning on opening an inn? I know nothing about construction and if you ever saw me with a hammer and nails in my hands be sure and run to stop me because whatever I'm nailing it's not going to look pretty or the wall may never look the same! I do what I do best, this gathering of things was on my list of things to do because it's what I do best. You are doing what you do best which is supervising contractors and taking care of the money part."
All of a sudden she was quiet. Karen was pursing her lips looking at her.
Addy asked. "Sorry, what's wrong babe? Why are you asking what I'm going to do in town? today? I always go to town and you never ask. What's wrong?" Addy came closer and put her hand on Karen's cheek.
"Nothing. I shouldn't have asked. I'm sorry. I can't really expect you to be home or following me around all day, as much as I would like it."
"Sweetie, neither one of us would be happy if we did! What would we talk about if we had been together all day? I like it when we each do our thing and then we regroup in the evening and tell all our stories. Go on, now. Keep the contractors straight over there."
Karen knew she was right. It was just that Karen was so afraid that something would happen to Addy in her absence that the mere thought tormented her. She realized that anything could happen anytime no matter where people found themselves, so she tried not to think about it. However, she would always look for any excuse to call her, for whatever little thing.
Karen knew that Addy was glued to her phone and she could be reached anytime anywhere. She always answered before the third ring. Karen always chuckled at the speed with which she answered. In fact, Karen was sure that she had never left a voice message for her ever! Addy always answered the phone. Addy knew all too well the reason why Karen called and always took the calls no matter if she had to interrupt people to take them. A call from Karen would stop the world for Addy.
"Okay, I'll see you later."
Karen had purchased a used pickup truck, something like the old one they had before. This was a bit newer. She'd gotten it because she realized that they were going to need a hauling type car at least until the inn was finished. Plus, the car she really wanted to buy was another Range Rover, but it was much too expensive for now. She was going to wait until she saw how the whole thing turned out with the inn. Also with an older vehicle she didn't have to worry about scratches and dents during the construction of the inn. The truck was good for hauling construction materials or anything else needed for the rebuilding of the inn. Addy had the Range Rover. Karen preferred that Addy take the Rover because it was safer.
They had fallen into a daily routine. In the morning, they would take care of any legal work. Sometime matters could take all morning or maybe one or two hours. After, both would tidy up or throw stuff in washer, as necessary and do whatever housekeeping matters were needed. Because they would work at it together they would be done in no time leaving them plenty of time for whatever else they wanted to do. Sometimes, they left that type of thing for the evening, if they had something better to do in the afternoon. House chores did not take priority over fun stuff or trips of discovery somewhere. Addy was always coming up with ideas of places to go, or Karen would remember something that she would want to show Addy, and off they went.
While the inn was under construction, the middle of the day was usually the time for Addy to run her errands. Karen on the other hand, became aware that she was pretty good with tools and that she liked to hang around the construction site watching and even helping to do stuff. She had learned a lot of handyman skills and the older guys loved to see the beautiful woman in overalls or raggedy jeans working side by side with them. They took good care of her and didn't let her do the 'hard' stuff. They liked the way Karen picked up their skill in a minute. Little did they know that they had a Suma Cum Laude from Harvard and Columbia hammering nails into 2x4s or caulking next to them! Addy would roll her eyes every time she saw her.
"Look at you, again, all dusty and your hair full of wood bits! You look like you've been playing in a sandbox!"
Karen pouted. "You don't love me anymore?"
Addy had to smile at the adorable face. "I'd be crazy if I didn't!"
Karen grinned, came forward, and kissed her.
When Karen got to the inn that day, there was the continuation of the previously left chaos. She walked around looking at the different happenings around the building. A couple of hours passed. She was just sitting there wondering when it would all end. This will never be done. Maybe we should have demolished everything and build a new one! We are going to be bankrupt when all of this is done, if ever! The men working seemed lost not knowing what to do next. Karen stopped and asked. "What's going on?" One of the workers explained. "Mr. Willow went to get some supplies and we are not sure where to start digging, so we were trying to decide what to do." "Maybe you should wait for Mr. Willow." What the heck what's another hour in the whole scheme of things! Since it looks like this is never going to be finished, anyway!
Karen could feel her head throbbing. It was around four o'clock already. She was thinking of leaving to go to town and get a present for Addy. "Over here, this is the place." One of the workers signaled to the others. Karen was approaching to take a look when one of the workers digging hit a pipe and a gush of water poured though the wall along with the wall and everything in its path. Karen was right in front of it and was hit by the gush of water and washed away with it.
The water hit her so hard it pushed her to the ground and she slid all the way to the stair case where she was pinned by the railing. In the chaos, the workers were trying to pull her off the mainstream of the water, but couldn't because the water pressure was too strong. Finally, one of the workers closed the main pipe and when the water pressure diminished Karen was able to move out of the stream of water. If it had taken a little longer, Karen would have been flushed down the staircase with the flow of the water. She could have been seriously hurt had it not been for the railing and for her strength holding on to it.
There was great commotion among the workers. Some of them were trying to clean the debris, some trying to rescue Karen and some running towards Mr. Willow, the contractor, who was just arriving. Mr. Willow took immediate control of the situation. He helped Karen up and apologized profusely, assuring her that all would be fixed and that everything would be alright.
Karen was drenched from head to toe. She was also filthy because the water had carried all sorts of dirt and debris. Her hair was full of gunk, she was a mess. She was so frustrated, in pain and almost in tears. All she could think of was of getting home. As she was leaving, waving everyone off to leave her alone, she started to cry. She realized that she didn't have a present for Addy, and that now it was too late to go to town looking the way she looked. She was just devastated as she was driving home.
At home, Addy was making certain preparations in anticipation of Karen's arrival. When Karen arrived home, she sat in the car in total despair, looking at herself in disgust. She could hardly find the strength to get out of the truck. She looked up and saw the rose bushes on the side of the house. She pursed her lips, took a tool from her toolbox and walked towards the bushes. She cut 12 red roses and removed the thorns from all of them. She looked at herself. "I'm pathetic, way to go Karen!" She walked towards the house. The minute she opened the door, she knew. She closed her eyes. She couldn't remember another moment when she hated herself more. How could she possibly ruin their first anniversary was beyond explaining. What would she tell Addy? Could Addy ever forgive her?
Karen surveyed the room from the door almost not daring to come in. The ambiance set the mood. The curtains were down, there was a nice scent in the air, the lights were low and in the background music was playing. It was Adele's 'Lovesong.' This was their song. They loved it and would dance to it every time.
Then she saw the sight that took her breath. Addy was dressed in cute olive green shorts and cream cotton blouse, the type held on by an elastic band around the torso and under the arms. It was lose at the bottom and it came just below her waist. Her tanned shoulders glowed in the low light and her golden necklace sparkled on her chest. Karen was sure she was not wearing a bra. She knew this too well! Addy looked like an apparition. Green eyes fixated on her, mesmerized. She could hardly think. Much less speak. Karen swallowed hard looking down at herself. She was smelly and full of gunk.
When Addy saw her, she smiled and came towards her. She spoke in a soft loving voice. "Hi, I know what happened. Mr. Willow called to apologize. Are you okay? Are you hurt? I was going over there, but he said that you were already on your way here." Addy continued to smile. Karen just stared speechless, wet, filthy and with her 12 roses in hand. She nodded, unable to speak, her eyes full of tears still fixated on Addy.
"I'm sorry." The tears began to fall. "I meant to go to town to get you something because I knew you were up to something, but look what happened!" Addy got close to her. Her legs felt weak. If she had ever witnessed a most endearing moment, this had to be it. She was hardly able to speak. Karen was adorable. "Are these for me?" Addy pointed to the flowers. She was trying to make Karen feel better.
"Uh huh." Karen nodded like a little girl with tears in her eyes. She handed the flowers over to Addy. Karen wiped the tears off her eyes smearing the dirt on her face.
Addy took the flowers. "I don' think I've ever gotten such beautiful flowers."
"I just picked them outside. I have nothing else for you. I…" She started to cry again.
"I wouldn't say that." She set the flowers on the kitchen island and came closer and lovingly, caressed Karen's face and kissed her. She placed her arms around Karen's neck and started to sway with the music. Karen couldn't help but sway with the music also. Both women were looking at each other intensely. No words spoken. Addy laced her hands through Karen's hair, lifting it to expose her neck and came closer to kiss her while still caressing her hair and scalp. "I have everything I ever wanted right here in my arms." Karen closed her eyes feeling almost faint. She brought her hands to Addy's hips and later to her behind, bringing her forward and pressing her body into hers. They danced, close, tight, sensually.
Addy closed her eyes also, as Adele did all the talking in the background. The music, the words, the intensity of the moment was overwhelming. Karen's hands roamed free up and down the fabulous body in her arms, as Addy continued to devour with gentle caressing Karen's neck, ears, eyes and mouth.
The degree of contentment, of pleasure, of belonging was palpable. They had that mesmerized look of having found that which could not possibly be described or expressed, but could only be felt in the depth of their souls. That feeling of knowing that you belong in heart and soul to that other person, the person you adore, the person who loves you for exactly who you are, with all your rights and wrongs. They danced to their love song. The music played in the background saying everything that needed to be said. I love you, I will always love you.
Addy kissed her and held her tight. Karen returned the kiss and the embrace with the same passion. "Addy, I'm getting you all dirty!"
"Let's go upstairs. I have a surprise for you."
"You are not disappointed?"
"Ker, you have never disappointed me."
Karen chuckled as tears rolled down when her eyes crinkled.
"Come on. Let me show you my surprise." Addy took her hand and walked her upstairs. As they reached to top floor, Karen noticed the colors of the walls. The lights in the bedroom were low, the bed was turned down and the bathroom glowed with what Karen could have sworn were a million candles. Karen was smiling the minute she noticed the low lights and the glow of candles and the scent.
The room smelled like Addy's perfume. Karen inhaled, closing her eyes. Karen loved the way Addy always smelled. It was the chemistry of her perfume and her body's scent. When Addy told Karen where she sprayed her perfume, Karen couldn't believe it. Just the mental association of the perfume and the sprayed area made Karen's body react to the scent. It was maddening.
Karen grinned, her eyes welled up again. She then felt Addy's hands beginning to undress her. "Addy, you make me feel like ….."
Addy chuckled. "Are you going to sing Adele's song to me?"
Karen chuckled. "I wish I had her voice to do it…"
"Baby, you don't need to sing, if Adele had your eyes, she wouldn't need to sing it either!" Addy chuckled and kissed her.
"I don't know what it is about you and my eyes! The things you say…..I never know how to reply…" Karen was all teary again.
"Look at me! I don't think I've ever cried so much in my life as I have since I've been you." She pouted. Karen looked adorable. Addy was weak in her knees again. This woman could crumble every nerve in her body!
"Those green eyes have bewitched me! I thought you knew that by now." She caressed Karen's face. "And your tears are tears of joy, and I love to see you so overwhelmed on account of things I do. I love to make you happy. Happy tears are lovely. Plus, they are private. It's my privilege to see you like this, to make you feel like this. You are my love, baby."
Unable to speak, Karen's face revealed a thousand emotions.
Addy came close and combed her hair off her face. She kissed her tenderly again. Karen again was nervous and shaky as emotions threatened to overwhelm her. Her face and mouth were twitching as she tried to control her feelings. She was a mess. She had no explanation as to why being the confident woman she was, she would be stripped of even her dignity in the presence of this woman who seemed to have gained possession of her in the most absorbing, wonderful way.
Addy held her tight when she saw her trembling. "No one's ever loved me like you, Addy." Addy closed her eyes, as her heart filled. "Go on, baby, get in the shower to rinse off all the dirt and then come into the Jacuzzi with me."
Karen went into the shower, and later joined Addy in the Jacuzzi, sitting between her legs. Karen leaned back into her. "Uummm!"
Addy smiled as she wrapped her arms and legs around Karen kissing her neck and shoulders. Karen relaxed, spreading her legs, as Addy gently rubbed her abdomen and caressed her. Karen grinned closing her eyes surrendering to the sensual caressing and touch. Addy worked her magic and was delighted when a few minutes later she felt Karen convulse in her arms.
"Easy, baby, easy! I've got you." Addy whispered in her ear. "Happy anniversary, blondie."
"Oh, baby…I God! I can't think of happier days!" Karen whispered.
"Let's make sure all our anniversaries are memorable, okay?"
"Uh huh" Addy continued to caress and gently rub her as Karen recuperated in her arms. "This is more like it."
"How I like to see you…completely relaxed in my arms, and ….."
Addy couldn't finish her sentence. Karen turned things around in a minute and it took no time for Addy to get her anniversary gift also.
"Uumm, and you said you had no gift for me? You are obviously not aware of all your gift giving capabilities!" Karen chuckled as she continued to nibble her neck. Addy was about to get a second gift, when she suggested moving to the bed.
"Okay, but remember who was leading this dance!"
"Oh, I'm not going to forget, I just want to be comfy and make it a very long dance."
After the love making, there were long tender moments, caressing and holding each other. Karen continued to gently kiss her. Addy was looking at those beautiful green eyes and brushing Karen's hair back. Karen slowly started to go down on her, kissing everywhere left and right. Addy moaned with pleasure. "Uummm, I love my anniversary gift!" Karen looked at Addy, her eyes were glazed.
Although, they had made love many times, Addy had not felt comfortable with Karen thoroughly exploring the southern most areas in all their time together and Karen had never pushed the issue because she thought that the time would come when Addy would be comfortable with it. Karen longed to follow the trail of Addy's perfume and today everything was playing out differently. She wanted Addy in every possible way. Addy was still recovering as Karen kissed her and whispered her desire. "Addy, you know what we've talked about sometimes?"
"Should we try it?"
"Okay." Addy could feel Karen's arousal on her leg and smiled looking at the gorgeous woman on top. Karen shifted her entire body and placed herself between Addy's legs, as she kissed her deeply.
She then slowly began her slow descent, kissing every inch of the gorgeous body underneath her own. She stopped and paid full attention to each breast, gently caressing them and taking her nipples in her mouth and gently, as ever, played with hem. Addy gasped loving it. Addy looked expectantly after Karen went below her belly. Karen continued to kiss her way down caressing her curls and taking in her scent. Addy closed her eyes, she couldn't believe this was happening or what Karen was about to do. Addy spread her legs a bit, Karen smiled knowing that this was a welcome sign. She caressed Addy's inner thighs brushing her curls with her lips. She looked up to find Addy gazing at her, her chest was heaving, panting. Karen could tell she was nervous and came up to kiss and reassure her. Addy held her face in her hands and lovingly smiled at her. "I love you, Ker."
Karen kissed her a million times. "Addy, I love you more than my own life. I won't if you don't want to." "I want to, baby, I want to. Make me like it."
"Trust me."
"I do. I always do." Karen began her descent again kissing her way down, as she had done before. Addy's eyes were fixed on her. As Karen descended, Addy spread herself allowing Karen to position herself perfectly. Addy was nervous. Karen felt faint when she took in Addy's maddening scent. Karen was in a daze. It was such a rush, such a privilege to have this gorgeous woman allow her to touch her like this! What a feeling! She laid her cheeks on Addy's curls and thighs inhaling the scent that always made her lose her mind, the scent of the goddess in front of her, the woman she adored. Addy closed her eyes giving herself to the moment. She was enjoying the loving gestures and the attention she was getting. Karen was in her very own private heaven. It all felt so good, so perfect, so wonderful. She took her time to make Addy feel comfortable, and to relax her. Karen took her time as she continued to kiss Addy's inner thighs. Addy was astonished looking at what Karen was doing. "Trust me, baby, trust me." "I do, I do, Ker, I do."
Karen felt shivers up and down her body. She wanted this to be perfect. Addy had to enjoy it, she had to love it. She turned her attention to the gorgeous site in front of her. She blew warm air onto Addy's curls and kissed her sex while looking into Addy's eyes. "Do you know how beautiful you are?" Addy stared at her in awe, in want, in disbelief to see this most beautiful woman at this particular spot. "You are like…." Karen could hardly speak, her green eyes were misting.
Addy was so aroused and full of desire by Karen's emotions that instinctively she opened her legs wanting, aching for Karen to touch her. Karen was practically in tears. Her desire was so strong that she was unable to hold back anymore. She kissed her center and ever so slowly used her fingers to allow herself in. She was rewarded with a loud moan.
"Oh God!" Karen smiled. She felt exhilarated, and encouraged by Addy's moan. All hesitation was removed. There were no reservations or concerns. This was the woman she loved, the only woman she ever really loved. She wanted to give her unimaginable pleasures. Karen began a slow and steady rhythm with her tongue that she knew would bring Addy to climax. Addy continued to thrust her hips and to moan, moving in unison. Addy's body reaction, her moans and her inebriating scent drove Karen's passion to oblivion.
Addy leaned her head back arching herself up in pure pleasure, exposing her entire body to her. Karen couldn't believe the beauty of the woman or of this glorious moment. Addy was a monument to womanhood. She arched, bringing her center into Karen's mouth, offering herself, completely without reservation. OH GOD! I love her!.….. Oh God! She is so incredibly beautiful! Karen was so overwhelmed, she had a momentary loss of mind and simply gave herself to the pleasure of providing pleasure to the love of her life.
"Ker, Ker, Kerrrrrrrr! Oooooh, God, God, Keerrrr! Please! …" Karen continued her strokes unbelieving the pleasure she felt or the pleasure she was giving to her love. She was overcome with desire, with love, her eyes welled with tears and the tears falling as she closed them in total ecstasy. Addy had her eyes closed and continued to push herself into Karen. Every time feeling increasing pulses of pleasure to the core of her body.
It was amazing! Addy wanted more and more! She was crumpling the beds sheets below her. She brought her hands to Karen's head and grabbed her hair. Karen though her body was trembling. She could feel her orgasm overpowering her. Karen was in such a state of ecstasy herself she didn't know what else to do to satisfy her love as she watched her goddess reach the pinnacle, trembling and convulsing.
Karen also trembled as she climaxed herself. This was by far the most extraordinary experience she'd ever had in her entire life. "Baby, my baby, I've got you, baby! Addy held on to Karen, as she rode the last waves of her orgasm that nearly sent her into unconsciousness. Karen came up to kiss her and hold her. As she came up her fingers went inside her. Addy was soaked, sweating, trembling. She snuggled into her partner, grabbing her and holding on to her for her own life. "Don't let go, don't let go!" She was in a daze, slowly drifting back to reality in total bliss, as she enjoyed the gentle strokes of the woman she loved. Karen could still feel her muscles convulsing as she slowly removed her fingers from inside her. She was still panting when she opened her eyes and saw the most gorgeous teary green eyes smiling at her in total delight and disbelief.
"I love you Adriana Marcos and will love you for as long as I live!" Tears ran down her cheeks falling on Addy's face. Addy was also crying and chuckling still unable to speak, "Ker!" Addy was visibly overwhelmed. Karen grinned gently. Her teary face had that mischievous look. "You liked it!" Addy was blushing, she bit her lip, hugged her as she whispered in her ear. "Uh huh! And nodded. Karen nuzzled Addy's neck. "Enough for an encore?" Addy nodded in the affirmative, as she buried her face into Karen's chest.
Karen went wild kissing and tickling her, ending up in a tight embrace. "I look at you everyday and wonder if there will be a day when you will stop amazing me! I don't think that day will ever come. What did I ever do to deserve you is beyond me, but I swear that I will dedicate my entire life to keep this flame burning. I love you, Addy. I love to make you feel this way, and I love how you make me feel." Karen grabbed her face and kissed her. "Are you okay?"
"Yeah, I can't believe how you make me feel either. What you do to me, its….amazing!
Karen smiled. "I love you baby, with all that I am and I don't ever want to stop feeling like this! Karen started to cry unable to contain her emotions.
"I love you sweetie, I love you too."
"Yeah?" Karen knew what Addy was going to say and preempted the subject. She combed Addy's hair back. "Ssssh! Don't worry, we are not in any hurry. Things have moved at their own pace. Nothing between us has been rushed and look how things have turned out. We have the rest of our lives ahead of us, so, please don't worry."
"It might take some time…"
"Addy, it will be my first too, I haven't…." She didn't finish her sentence. Addy kissed her.
"Oh God, Ker! What a pair we are!
"Maybe that's why we function so well."
"I like it like this, though, both exploring the same territory but coming from different ways or reasons." Karen smiled at the comment. "I certainly love exploring with you! I'd dared to go …." Addy finished the sentence. "To hell and back?" Karen grinned. "You remembered!" "Yeap, that comment always struck me as interesting." Karen chuckled. "In my mind I also thought…and to the edge of the universe if there is such a thing!" They kissed.
"I hope you liked your anniversary gift, baby,"
"Addy, I never had a better gift in my life! I hoped you liked your gift too. I assure you, I've never given this gift to anyone." Karen remarked
A very satisfied Addy responded. "I know, baby, you told me that night in New York."
"For God's sake! Did I keep anything to myself that night?" Karen thought she was asking a rhetorical question, but apparently not because she did get an answer.
"No, baby, you kept nothing to yourself!"
Karen chuckled burying her face into Addy's neck and shoulder. "Oh God!"
Addy smiled and kissed her.
That night, the candles turned themselves off as the wicks burned. The last of the candles went out almost at dawn which was just about when the anniversary celebration ended. They were exhausted and fell asleep as the sun slowly rose in the horizon.
They got up late the next day. Karen was a bit nervous. She wanted to make sure Addy was okay with the previous night's happenings. When she opened her eyes that morning she decided she was going to be very attentive, reassuring and loving. All of a sudden she felt Addy moving. Oh God, What do I do? She was afraid to do or say the wrong thing or even have the wrong look on her face. Addy realized Karen was still in bed. This was unusual Karen would always get up first shower, make coffee and sometime she'd make breakfast and bring it upstairs, or bring coffee to her in bed. Yet today, she was there, barely moving. Addy smiled, she knew her so well! Addy didn't know how to face Karen either, not so much for the previous night's event, but because she knew Karen was facing another of her predicaments and she had to figure out how to let Karen know that she was fine and perfectly well with last night. Last night was incredibly awesome! Why don't I just tell her that!!
As Addy was going to turn, Karen was coming towards her. They looked at each other and smiled. Addy completed her turn. Karen swallowed hard. Addy grinned, she couldn't help it. It send a good signal to Karen. Karen was feeling a little better seeing that smile on her face.
"Addy, you are okay?"
"Ker, what makes you think I wouldn't be?"
Karen didn't know how to reply to that. Addy thought it was a stupid answer and continued to talk.
"Huh?" Karen was unable to put a sentence together, she was nervous. Her eyes looking for something else to look at, but unable to not look away from Addy.
"I like it when you are like this…"
Karen looked at her, unable to understand the comment. "How?"
"Lost, like a little girl, not knowing what to do or say."
"How do you know I feel that way?"
"Oh, I know! Just from looking at you. Ker, last night was awesome."
Karen's eyes welled up and she buried her face and cried on Addy's shoulder. Addy held her. "God, I'm so relieved! It was so important for me that you liked it. I was afraid to mess up."
"Ssssh! Ker, it's good, it's okay. It was perfect, baby, just perfect." Karen pulled away and looked at her.
Addy turned her over and threw one of her legs over Karen's almost climbing on her. "I can't love you more, Ms. Larsen. Is that going to be good enough for you?"
Karen chuckled. "I was afraid that this morning you…"
"Don't you think I know that also?"
"Is there anything you don't know, or can't tell about me?!"
Addy twitched her mouth and pouted as she smiled.
"Nope! And if there is, it won't be long until I find out!"
"Are we okay, then?"
"Well, missy, I was hoping that after last night, I'd be more than okay!" Addy was grinning.
Karen was full blast grinning again. She flipped her over. "Ms. Marcos, you are more than okay, you are fantastic, fabulous, etc, etc. etc…. I don't think I know enough adjectives!"
They kissed and held each other for a long time.
"You know, Ker, I'm actually glad about last night. I also feel relieved."
Karen pulled back from their embrace and arched her right eyebrow. "Hum, relieved? Why? What's on that head of yours Ms. Addy?" Karen continued to kiss her. She just couldn't have enough of her.
"Well, I have been reading some romance novels, and I read one that sort of scared the hell out of me."
Karen smiled, as Addy continued. "There was a love scene and I found it too raw, so I started to wonder if after a certain point the animal instincts kick in and that's all there is to it."
"It's not like that at all. It depends on the people and how they feel about each other."
"Addy, you can't go by what you read. I think people write raw sex scenes because they think that's what people want to read. I think, like you, that most people would rather read about the feelings and emotions leading to the love scene rather than about the love scene itself. Plain sex is different that a relationship where there is love. Sex is the best thing in the world when shared with the person you adore. Love makes all the difference. Last night was unique and special, baby, I had …."
She couldn't finish. Addy kissed her, Karen continued to smile. "Larsen, are you forgetting I know all about you? Actually you are about to ask me the name of the book I read! Confess!!!!"
Karen started to laugh, as Addy swatted her and tickled her. Karen had a laugh attack. "So are you going to tell me?"
"No way, you are not getting any ideas from any book, missy, you better come up with your own!"
They were wrestling on the bed and Karen ended up pinning her down. "I win!"
"You always win, Ms. Larsen, haven't you noticed yet?"
Loving green eyes couldn't possibly say more as they were pulled down to find very hungry lips.
After a few hours, they tore away from each other, got up and made breakfast. They were planning to go to the town festival. It was an annual festival when all the businesses in town had discounts and out door sales and there were some entertainment shows at the small plaza. People would jus gather to eat, drink, shop and have a good time.
They were strolling along the street when they spotted Mr. Kimbell and Mrs. Laura McKenzie chatting very amicably. They both greeted them. They also spotted Dr. Naylor, he was having some coffee at Carol's coffee shop. They also said their hellos. As they continued down the street they came across Mary and another woman going into the Carriage House Inn. Addy looked at Karen. "Oh, brother!" Addy exclaimed.
"Addy, is better to forget what we've just seen."
"I think Mary has found some side entertainment. I feel so sorry for Carol. She deserves so much better. Doesn't she realize that?"
"Sometimes love blinds people. They just don't want to see what is very obvious."
"Ker, she knows. I could tell when you introduced her to me. She was glad to see that you weren't available. She knew that Mary had already checked you out."
Karen looked at her. "Yeah, I remember how you staked your claim that day!"
Addy felt totally secure about Karen. She had no doubt in her mind that Karen would never look at another woman in her life again. However, just because of that, she felt like she needed to let Karen know that she was desirable and that she was going to put up a fight with anyone wanting to 'roll on her turf' as she would so often put it to Karen's delight. Karen always nodded thinking to herself if she had any idea of the absurdity of her words. Karen would inwardly laugh. How could she still not know that she is my everything?
Addy swatted her. "I had to! That woman was eating you up alive!"
"Addy! You have to be kidding me, you have to know that I am more than happy and that I would never even look at ...."
Addy stopped and put her hand out to stop Karen. "Stop, we have trouble ahead."
"Oh, God!" At the end of the street was Carol profusely waving at them.
"Shit!" Karen proclaimed. "
"Hi, you guys! Com and have some coffee?"
They crossed the street and went towards Carol. "Hi Carol, how are you? Dr. Naylor?"
"Good afternoon ladies, how are you this morning?"
"We are fine. Have you heard from Sarah? How is her son doing?"
"Oh, he is very well. That was some drive Ms. Larsen. I'm afraid you might be known as the town's rescue driver now!" Dr. Naylor laughed.
"Dr. Naylor, let's hope we don't have to repeat a drive like that ever again."
"I'm with you on that one. I still have blisters from the shoveling we did! Please join me for coffee."
Carol interjected. "Can I bring you some of my pastries also?"
"Please, I can't wait to try them. I've heard wonderful things about them."
"Baked fresh every morning." Carol said proudly.
Addy tried the sweets when Carol brought an assortment for them. "Wow! Carol these are really good!" Do you think you can make some for the inn? Maybe we can serve tea and pastries in the afternoon."
"Very English. Yes, I think people would like that, it's sort of classy. Listen, I'll give you an assortment on consignment and if people like them, maybe I can provide you a regular supply every morning." Carol was speaking in jest, but Addy took it to heart. Another of her steps on the wild side.
"Carol, you are a savvy business woman. I accept your terms. I love your pastries, and I think they will be very popular. In fact I think you should select a proprietary brand. Just in case it picks up and you may need to start shipping it to people who might want to still eat them at home. Who knows you may be famous one day for your pastries! What's the calorie content?"
Karen observed the conversation astonished. Addy had already declared the pastries good enough for the world and had futuristic plans for the endless possibilities! Karen looked a the doctor and smiled, but was force to look the other way to prevent Dr. Naylor from seeing how she rolled her eyes in total disbelief. Am I the only sane person in this town?
As the women continued to talk, and the conversation continued about the fantastic pastries and how Carol had come across recipes and the different techniques used to do this that or the other, which bored Karen to death, Mary showed up. Mary and Carol lived in an apartment above the pastry shop. Mary greeted them and excused herself indicating that she needed to take a shower. Karen arched her brow. She couldn't even bring herself to look at her. She probably needed a shower to remove the scent of the other woman on her. Mary came back about ten minutes later.
Addy and Karen looked at each other very discretely. Mary sat between them. Carol told Mary about the deal she had made with Addy.
"Oh you will sell them. Carol's pastries are the best."
Yeah, but you've been eating somebody else's pastries! Addy noticed Karen's face and came up with an excuse to leave. Karen was a very rightful person and cheaters infuriated her. Karen had never really liked Mary for obvious reasons, but now she couldn't stand the sight of her.
When they were in the car, Karen voiced her opinion. "Addy, you know I can't fake it. I'm sorry, baby, I don't want anything to do with Mary! I hope we don't have her making the deliveries to the inn!"
"Oh my God, Ker, I didn't think of that! Do you think she'll come on to you?"
"I hope she doesn't, because if she does I'm going to give her something she won't forget!" She punched her right hand with her left fist.
"Ker! Cool off. She's not our problem."


text:
02 November 2010
HAIR TUTORIAL: Braided Crown
Alot of you have been emailing me questions and requests for hair posts...I am not ignoring them, we are working hard to make a video for your every need. Coming soon, we have a teasing tutorial and products recommended for flat fine hair.
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24 comments:
- asymmetricalpress said...
You are so stinkin' cute. I love this hair style. I saw your sister's tutorial and have been rocking it as often as I can. You own it though.
- November 2, 2010 at 1:21 AM
- lydia. said...
maybe i'm just dumb. :(
but i'm super confused on how to gather the hair?
like, when you're going around the back, i can't tell what you're doing.
- November 2, 2010 at 1:47 AM
- BuenoBueno said...
you just gather random hair into your 3 strands like french braiding but not in a neat way...you are NOT dumb
- November 2, 2010 at 1:51 AM
- Anna said...
reminds me of the hair in one of the fall free people look books. my poker straight hair is laughing - it would never stay and i would like a milkmaid that took a few too many rolls in the hay.
but its very cute on kelly!! love your hair posts!
- November 2, 2010 at 4:51 AM
- danielle and dinosaur toes said...
you two have perfect eyebrows, and i am really jealous!
i do braids all the time. i love them because it doesn't take much time, but it still lookds good.
- November 2, 2010 at 7:53 AM
- Betsey J said...
I love this! I can't wait til my hair gets longer and I can actually attempt this look.
- November 2, 2010 at 9:00 AM
- Miki's scrapbook said...
Boo! I can't watch the video because "it contains content from Sony Music Entertainment, who has blocked it in my country due to copyright grounds" :(.
Loved the pictures, though.
- November 2, 2010 at 9:09 AM
- RachelDenbow said...
love it. I have only been rocking the braid (such as today) to control the mess under a beanie! ha!
Trying this soon. Do you think it would work with bangs if I just pulled hair from further back on my crown? hmmm....
- November 2, 2010 at 10:42 AM
- CaL said...
you girls make me want a sister, damn you! CUTE hair, btw!
- November 2, 2010 at 10:57 AM
- Lune Vintage said...
Ahhhh! RAD! Thanks for the great hair ideas, you save us long haired girls from total boredom!
- November 2, 2010 at 2:39 PM
- becca said...
so.. i already told you (brandi) via twitter that i tried this and i loooved it.. but like 4 people just in my apartment complex alone today told me they loved my hair and asked me how to do it!!
anyhoo i just wanted to thank you again and tell you i love this because:
1) it's so easy and cute
2) it's perfect for super dirty messy hair (like mine often is)
and 3) i've re-done it just for funsies a few times and it looked different every time, but always cute!
- November 2, 2010 at 2:59 PM
- Jessica said...
A post on flat fine hair would be lovely! I never know what to do with it.
Great tutorial, once again! :p ill definitely be needing a curling iron.
- November 2, 2010 at 3:22 PM
- BuenoBueno said...
yes if you have bangs this will still work just work the hair from your crown forward:)
- November 2, 2010 at 5:38 PM
i lovvvve this look and all the cute braids you guys do!!! but i have the hardest time just trying to french braid my own hair! can you give any tips on how to french braid your own hair easier?
- November 2, 2010 at 7:38 PM
- lydia. said...
ahh, thanks, brandi!
i think i've got it now. :)
- November 2, 2010 at 7:39 PM
- my name is lauren. said...
kelly....could you possibly be any more adorable? ummmm....probably not. dying of cuteness over here! love this tutorial! thanks girls!!!
- November 2, 2010 at 8:31 PM
- Liz said...
Oh my goodness this is so perfect. I can tell she has reallll thick hair {like me} so I can't wait to try this! It's just going to be hard trying to do it on myself; it's way easier when someone else braids your hair haha.
Y'all are so cute <3
- November 3, 2010 at 1:42 AM
- Nell said...
Just discovered your blog through Bleubird (how awesome is that blog!) and LOVE it! This is the cutest hair style ever. And cutest pictures xx
- November 3, 2010 at 4:34 AM
- jacob said...
Holy Crap! Hair Crown are my favorite kinds of crowns! I figure if you're gonna wear a crown it might as well literally grow out of your head.
Seriously tho really do love those wrap around braids.
- November 3, 2010 at 11:39 AM
- shawni marie said...
omgosh i am trying this TONIGHT!! <33
for tomorrow's hair. i can't wait to see how it turns out. i will send photos <3
- November 3, 2010 at 5:07 PM
- Kassi said...
this makes me sad i cut my hair!
BUT i just did it on tannyn and she looks adorable - thanks for this girls... and kel, you look stunning! seriously gorgeous.
much love my favorite bueno sisters
- November 3, 2010 at 7:37 PM
- chelsea lee aka spicklebee said...
this is so incredibly adorable. I love it!! my hair was too clean though and for some reason I feel like I don't know how to do this behind my head. I need Brandi to come to California and do my hair pronto!!
- November 4, 2010 at 7:21 PM
- chelsea lee aka spicklebee said...
I gave it another try and I loved it! Blogged about it too!!
- November 5, 2010 at 2:23 PM
- Lauren Ebanks said...
THIS IS AWESOME! I am incredibly low maintenance but still like to look cute and this does that for me! Quick, easy, messy, purrrtyy. Thanks for posting this!
- January 29, 2011 at 1:49 PM


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The 25th Annual WYMT Whayne Supply Mountain Basketball Classic tournament kicked off Tuesday night with the first two games.
One of those games went down to the final second!
"We are always really excited to get out there and play new teams, and it's just a really good experience," said Belfry cheerleader M'Kayla Hughes.
Fans packed the gymnasium to cheer on their teams.
"Just hoping to get the win, just gotta take it one game at a time," said Knott County Patriot fan Kalim Caudill.
All of the fans came here with same goal in mind. They want their team to be in the championship game Saturday night.
Hazard pulled off the upset and beat the Harlan County Black Bears with a last second 3-pointer.
"Breathtaking, I was holding my breath, it was great," said Hazard fan Jeff Roberts.
The Knott County Patriots later got the easy win over the Belfry Pirates.
"So excited. We have never won one, but we think this year is the year," said Caudill.
The teams will continue to battle this week until only two are left standing in Saturday night's championship game.


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The Woodford Sun
Versailles, Ky.
Recent Obituaries
July 8, 2004
Janice L. Collins, of Curry Court, died Monday, July 5, 2004.
Services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Friday, July 9, 2004, at Second Christian Church, Midway. Visitation, 6-9 p.m. today, Thursday, July 8, at the church. O.L. Hughes & Sons Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.
Visit Legacy.com.
Cara Stark Delgado, 39, of Versailles, formerly of Dallas, Texas, wife of Raul Delgado, died Thursday, July 1, 2004, at her home.
Born in Pasedena, Texas, she was the daughter of Clarence Bruce Stark and Margie Blue. She enjoyed spending time with her family and was an avid golfer.
In addition to her husband and parents, she is survived by a daughter, Gabriella; and two brothers, Bruce Stark Jr. and Joel Stark.
Services were conducted Wednesday, July 7, 2004, at Southland Christian Church Chapel by ministers Brewster MacLeod and Jim Burgen. Burial was in the Lexington Cemetery. Kerr Brothers Funeral Home, Harrodsburg Road, was in charge of arrangements. An additional memorial service will be held Saturday, July 10, at 10 a.m. at Lover's Lane United Methodist Church, Wesley Chapel, 9200 Inwood, Dallas, Texas.
The family requests that donations be made to the Gabriella Delgado Education Fund, 1079 W. Round Grove Road, Suite 300-152, Lewisville, TX 75067.
Guest book at Legacy.com.
Mary Elizabeth Hennenhofer Malott, 73, of Woodford County, wife of Fred S. Malott, died Friday, July 2, 2004, of complications following surgery.
Born Sept. 9, 1930, in Wichita, Kan., she was the daughter of Paul and Ruby Flanders Hennenhofer. She earned a baccalaureate degree in English literature at Park College, Parkville, Mo., and a degree in Christian education at McCormick Theological Seminary, Chicago, Ill. She served in five different churches as Christian education director or secretary. She retired from Wichita Congregational Church in 1996. She was a member of the local chapter P. E. O., a local book club, and she volunteered at the Jouett House and Woodford County Historical Society events. She was a lifelong member of the Presbyterian Church USA and at the time of her death was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Versailles, where she played in the bell choir.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by three sons, Daniel W. Malott, Elizabeth City, N.C., Paul W. Malott, Cincinnati, Ohio, and Andrew C. Malott, Libertyville, Ill.; two daughters, Susan Malott, Naperville, Ill., and adoptive daughter Alexandra Malott, Colorado Springs, Colo.; nine grandchildren; and a great grandchild.
A memorial service will be conducted at 2 p.m. Friday, July 9, 2004, at the Versailles First Presbyterian Church by the Rev. Richard Guerrant officiating. A reception will follow services.
Memorials suggested to Hospice of the Bluegrass, 2312 Alexandria Drive, Lexington, KY 40504-3216, or to Versailles First Presbyterian Church, 130 North Main Street, Versailles, KY 40383. Blackburn & Ward Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Guest book at Legacy.com.
Hildegrard Margarete Grohl Naumann, 98, died Saturday, July 3, 2004, at Taylor Manor Nursing Home in Versailles.
Survivors include five children, Erika Moore, Richmond, Va., Bernd Naumann, Vienna, Va., Christelle Naumann, Bluefield, W.Va., Hans Naumann, Lexington, and Elisabeth Naumann, Sunland, Calif.; 10 grandchildren; and 12 great grandchildren.
A funeral Mass will be held at 9:15 p.m. on Monday, July 19, 2004, at Taylor Manor Chapel at 300 Berry Avenue, Versailles. Graveside rites will follow at 1 p.m. at the Lexington Cemetery. Gifts in her memory may be made to Taylor Manor, Inc., c/o Sister Mary Christina, Taylor Manor, Inc., Versailles, KY, 40383. Pruitt Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.
Guest book at Legacy.com.
Beatrice Lyons King Oliver, 93, of Lexington, widow of Len Oliver, died Friday, July 2, 2004, at Hospice Care Center.
Born in Lexington, she was the daughter of the late D.L. and Mary Stinnett Lyons. She was a homemaker and a member of Liberty Road Community Church.
Survivors include a son, David King, Lexington; a stepdaughter, Janet Oliver, Midway; a stepson, Jim Oliver, Washington, D.C.; four grandchildren, Kenneth, Brenda, Dale and Kathryn; a nephew, Bob Lyons, Lexington; and a niece, Bonnie Pickett, Highland Heights. A brother, Estill Lyons, and a grandson, Mike King, are deceased.
Services were conducted Monday, July 5, 2004, at Kerr Brothers Funeral Home-Main Street by the Rev. Dwight Martin and the Rev. Jim Hensley. Burial was in Hillcrest Memorial Park.
Guestbook at Legacy.com.
Shirley Jean Flynn Riley, 71, of Lawrenceburg, died Friday, July 2, 2004, at the Masonic Home in Shelbyville.
Born Dec. 22, 1932, in Anderson County, she was the daughter of the late Estell Hawkins and John Wyatt Flynn. She was a retired employee of Kentucky Overall Service in Lawrenceburg and a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church, Lawrenceburg.
Survivors include a son, Danny G. Riley, Lawrenceburg; and four daughters, Donna Kay Price, Shelbyville, Doris Jean Slatten, Versailles, Paula Driscoll, Salvisa, and Patty Smith, Lawrenceburg; 14 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; a sister, Alice Brown, Louisville; four brothers, including her twin, Curtis E. Flynn, Middletown, Ohio, Winston Flynn, Louisville, Kermitt Flynn, Lawrenceburg, and John Michael Flynn, Lawrenceburg. Two sisters, Brunelle Casey and Sylvia Pence; and three brothers, Harold Flynn, Ray Flynn, and James Flynn, are deceased.
Services were conducted Tuesday, July 6, 2004, at Ritchie & Peach Funeral Home by Dr. Mike Hamrick. Burial was in the Lawrenceburg Cemetery. Casket bearers were her grandsons.
Memorials are suggested to one's favorite charity.
Lora June Bowman Serber, 81, of Macey Boulevard, widow of Thomas Serber, died Thursday, July 1, 2004, at Bluegrass Community Hospital.
Born in Woodford County, she was the daughter of the late Lonzo and Stella Bowman. She was a retired National Distillers employee, a member of Faith Baptist Church, and a member of the American Legion Post #67 Ladies� Auxiliary.
Survivors include two sons, Jeff Serber, Versailles, and John Bowman, Versailles; six sisters, Annette Robinson, Anna Belle Gill, Lila Goings, and Laura Robinson, all of Versailles, and Kitty Riddle and Alma Watford, both of Lawrenceburg; two grandchildren, Ashley Serber and David Wayne Cox; and a great grandson. Four brothers, two sisters, and two granddaughters are deceased.
Services were conducted Saturday, July 3, 2004, at Clark Funeral Home, Rose Hill, by the Rev. Bobby Lakes. Burial was in Sunset Memorial Gardens.
Guest book at Legacy.com.
Josephine LeForce Vaughn, 82, of Hunters Ridge Drive, widow of L. Dennis Vaughn, died Sunday, July 4, 2004, at the St. Joseph Hospice Care Center.
A native of Whitley County, she was the daughter of the late Charles W. and Lula Meadors LeForce. She was a graduate of the University of Michigan and Cumberland College and spent most of her teaching career in Ann Arbor, Mich. She was a member of the First Christian Church, the Woodford County Homemakers, Garden Club and Literary Club.
Survivors include two sons, M. David Vaughn, Clarksville, Md., and James D. Vaughn, Gaithersburg, Md.; three sisters, Edna Boyd, Corbin, Nan Smith, Louisville, and Opal Evans, Cincinnati; and a granddaughter, Caitlin Vaughn, Bethesda, Md.
Services were conducted Wednesday, July 7, 2004, at Clark Funeral Home, Rose Hill. A graveside service will be held at noon today, Thursday, July 8, at the Williamsburg Cemetery.
Contributions are suggested to Hospice of the Bluegrass,208 Steele Street, Frankfort, KY 40601.
Guest book at Legacy.com.
Arnold Bruce Ward, 87, of Lexington, husband of Mary McKenney Ward, died Wednesday, June 30, 2004.
Born in Johnson County, he was the son of the late Edgar and Julia Ann Walker Ward. He was a retired landscaper for Hillenmeyer Nurseries, a veteran of World War II, and an active member of the Southland Evangelical Methodist Church, Lexington.
In addition to his wife, survivors include three daughters, Joice Kelly, Charlotte, N.C., and Kay Pritchard and Cheryl Elliott, Lexington; two sons, Gary Robinson and Gerald Robinson, Lexington; 16 grandchildren; and 15 great grandchildren.
Services were conducted Friday, July 2, 2004, at Blackburn & Ward Funeral Home by the Rev. Bob Baldridge, Dr. Harold Tatman, and the Rev. Kurt Honican. Interment with military honors was at Camp Nelson National Cemetery. Casket bearers were his grandsons.
Memorials are suggested to the Southland Evangelical Methodist Church or to Hospice of the Bluegrass.
Ethel Vasti Wheeler, 82, of Versailles, formerly of Ashland, widow of Herman L. Wheeler, died Sunday, July 4, 2004, at the Hospice Care Center, Lexington.
Born Jan. 12, 1922, in Pikeville, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Beatrice Ratliff Hobson. She was a former school teacher and employee of Ashland Oil. She was a member of the Unity Baptist Church, Ashland.
Survivors include a daughter, Herma Lee McKenzie, College Station, Texas; a son, Randall Wheeler, Versailles; a sister, Cleda Sue Hall, Pikeville; a brother, Arthur Hobson, Englewood, Ohio; and four grandchildren, Craig McKenzie, New York, N.Y., Kyle McKenzie, Round Rock, Texas, and Evan and Colin Wheeler, Versailles. A brother, Hubert Hobson, is deceased.
Services will be conducted at 3 p.m. today, Thursday, July 8, 2004, at Steen Funeral Home Central Avenue Chapel, Ashland, by Dr. Floyd Paris. Interment will be in Rose Hill Mausoleum.
Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 4338 13th Street, Ashland, KY 41102-5432, or Hospice of the Bluegrass, 2312 Alexandria Drive, Lexington, KY 40504-3277.
Nora Virginia Shepard Woolums, of Frankfort, widow of James Woolums Sr., died Sunday, June 27, 2004, at Heritage Hall, Lawrenceburg, of complications from Alzheimer's Disease.
The daughter of the late Raymond and Stella Shepard, she was a homemaker and former co-owner of Woolums Restaurant in Midway. where she was known for her desserts. For over 40 years, she was the organist and pianist at the Midway United Methodist Church and a member of the Midway Woman's Club. She was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church.
Survivors include a brother, Marshall Shepard, Orlando, Fla.; two daughters, Helen Underwood, Frankfort, and Connie Teague, Danville; a son, the Rev. James Woolums Jr., Midway; six grandchildren, Jessica and Jacqueline Woolums, Midway, Jennifer Pierson, Virginia, Dr. Jonathan Bailey, South Carolina, Kevin Underwood, Nashville, Tenn., and Kent Underwood, Memphis, Tenn.; seven great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service was conducted at Clark Funeral Home, Frankfort Road, on Tuesday, July 6, 2004.
Memorial gifts are suggested for Hospice of the Bluegrass.
Guest book at Legacy.com.
Obituaries from past issues: Click here


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In February 2012, six First Nations youth ambassadors travelled to the United Nations (UN) in Geneva, Switzerland, to speak with the Committee on the Rights of the Child. In the spirit of Shannen Koostachin and the Our Dreams Matter Too report, these amazing youth met with the Committee to share their wisdom and personal experiences and to ask the UN to investigate the inequities affecting First Nations children and families in the areas of education, health, and child welfare. Their presentations will inform the upcoming UN review of Canada's implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which will take place in September 2012. Prior to leaving for Geneva, the youth ambassadors attended a training session in Toronto, Ontario, as well as participated in a press conference at the Provincial Child and Youth Advocate's Office. The six youth ambassadors were chosen through a Canada-wide application and selection process.
The youth left for Geneva on February 2nd and had a few days to explore the city. For some, it was the first time they had travelled out of the country.
On February 6th, the youth ambassadors gave presentations to the Committee on the Rights of the Child. They were the only youth in Canada's delegation, which was made up of organizations working nationally with and for children. The youth ambassadors spoke passionately and with insight, often using personal experiences to show how inequities in child welfare, education, and health have affected their communities. The ambassadors also had the opportunity to take part in a personal children's meeting where they spoke with Committee members for an hour. That evening, the accomplishments of the ambassadors were celebrated by all who participated in the day.
February 7th, the youth ambassadors were given a tour of the UN as well as had video interviews with INCOMINDIOS (International Committee for the Indigenous Peoples of the Americas). The ambassadors were also busy with Skype calls with students from Lady Evelyn and Pierre Elliott Trudeau schools in Ottawa, Ontario, as well as a Skype call with APTN (watch it here!).
These six ambassadors were the first Indigenous Canadian youth to speak to the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child. We would like to thank the youth ambassadors for their passion, strength, and commitment to change. You are truly the leaders of today!
About the Youth Ambassadors
John-Paul Chalykoff
My name is John-Paul Chalykoff. I am 24 years old. I am a member of Michipicoten First Nation. I was born in Wawa, Ontario, and have lived in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario for most of my life. I am a graduate of Algoma University in Sault Ste. Marie, where I studied Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe Language). I am currently attending Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, Ontario, where I am studying to become a high-school teacher in their 1-Year Bachelor of Education program, with Native Studies and History as my teachables.
Chelsea Edwards
Chelsea Edwards, Attawapiskat First Nation is 16 years old. She is the youth spokesperson for the Shannen's Dream campaign (www.shannensdream.ca) for safe and comfy schools and equitable education on reserves. Chelsea has appeared on national and international media about the inequities in education and other areas affecting First Nations children and youth in Canada.
Read Chelsea's speech to the Committee on the Rights of the Child
Helen Knott
Helen Knott is a 24 year old Dene Tsaa and Cree woman living in Fort St. John, British Columbia from Prophet River First Nations. Helen is a recent graduate of a Social Service Worker and Diploma program and an Indigenous Women in Community Leadership program. Her plans are to continue on her educational journey in September 2012 and pursue a Bachelors of Social Work.
As a youth, Helen spent most of her time fighting with accepting her Indigenous ancestry and the difficulties that came with it. As a young adult, Helen developed a driving desire to help change these circumstances and difficulties to improve the lives of Indigenous children and youth. She believes that we are able to work towards creating our own circumstances, ones where our children feel valued, loved, and proud.
Helen is also a mother to her four year old son, a poet, a writer, and a community volunteer. Sometimes her heart moves her to action before her head has a chance to respond but she is a firm believer that "if what you're doing is right and what you're doing is good, then what you need will find you".
Madelynn Slade
My name is Madelynn and I am non-status Michel Cree from Alberta. I am 22 years old. I currently study Child and Youth Care in British Columbia. I have a work and schooling background in child care. I am passionate about the care and wellness of children and youth. I am honoured to be chosen as one of the youth ambassador's to represent Canada's First Nation's at the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. I am looking forward to the work I am doing now and I will be able to do in the future with the FNCFCS.
Collin Starblanket
Tansi, my name is "Pahmeasion", "It's Coming Nice" otherwise known as Collin Joseph Starblanket. I am 15 years old and come from the Star Blanket Cree Nation. My parents' names are Fred Starblanket and Donna Okeeweehow. All my life I've been singing and dancing, attending ceremonies, praying and living the ways of First Nations People the best way I have been taught. I am a Young Men's Fancy Dancer. I have never touched drugs or alcohol and so I try to encourage other peers to live this way as well. I believe that my culture that I've been taught needs to be one of my main focuses in life in order for me to achieve my goals that I have set out for myself. My future goals include my athletics, as I have a very keen interest in all sorts of sporting activities. As well I would like to attend university to become a dentist. I am one of many teens leading a balanced life and will continue to do so. It is also through this way of life that I believe, I am a "Youth Role Model" for the youth. I hope to bring my message of living a healthy and active lifestyle to the youth as well.
Read Collin's speech to the Committee on the Rights of the Child
Kendall White
Kendall White is an ambitious youth who has always strived to create a positive change in the world. She has lived on Temagami First Nation for 12 years, and currently is traveling for school. She loves to be involved in her community and often will volunteer when she can, along with volunteering at a weekly movie night for fundraising. She is involved in many extra-curricular such as an Environmental Club, being the youth director for the Temagami Community Foundations, being a youth leader in Aboriginal Student Links, being the off-reserve youth representative for Temagami First Nation, being on the Temagami First Nation youth council and others. She recently traveled to Greenland, Iceland, Labrador and Nunavut with Student's on Ice along with 70 other youth from around the world, to study the effects of global warming first hand. She is interested in the environment and is going to college/university to study environmental issues. She has an extreme passion to help with social justice issues throughout the world as well. Since she was young she always dreamed about being able to talk about aboriginal issues, and is finally getting the opportunity to.
Read Kendall's speech to the Committee on the Rights of the Child
Thank you to all of the youth who took the time to apply to be a First Nations Youth Ambassador. We encourage you to stay involved and be a Community Ambassador and raise awareness about Shannen's Dream, Jordan's Principle and the I Am a Witness campaign. These are important issues and you are all doing great work and can continue to help! Some ideas include: giving a presentation to those in your community, school or workplace; make a YouTube video; participate in activities that support equity like Have a Heart Day and Our Dreams Matter Too walk. Together we can ensure that all First Nations children and youth have a bright future!


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- Filed Under
Opposition to religious belief has brought another lawsuit in Rutherford County, and the litigation again is an embarrassment to county residents, including those who are faithful.
That the lawsuit is against the Islamic faith may garner support from those in the community who are intolerant, but the county suffers from intolerance directed at any religious or cultural group.
While those who are bringing the more recent lawsuit prefer to couch it in terms of land-use or health regulations, this group of litigants as well as the group of litigants still appealing an earlier loss in the legal system cannot camouflage their antipathy toward Muslims.
Islam for centuries has been one of the principal religions of the world, but opponents in Rutherford County somehow think that they will convince someone that Islam is not even a religion.
Rutherford County already has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars to defend itself against what might be described as a nuisance lawsuit, if that phrase did not minimize the unfortunate ramifications of such blatant intolerance.
Tennessee in general and Rutherford County in particular has been successful in convincing countries around the world to bring investments and, more importantly, jobs to the Volunteer State.
Rutherford County's largest employer is Nissan, a Japanese company this is continuing to increase its investment in the community and make contributions not only to its economy but also to the cultural, educational and charitable sectors of the community.
One of the community's newest employers is Schwann Cosmetics, a German company bringing its U.S. headquarters to Murfreesboro. Volkswagen, also a German company, continues to have a major impact on the economy of the state.
Several generations back, Japan and Germany were at war with the United States, but this nation has developed productive relationships with them as it even has with Vietnam, which provided a war zone for another generation.
U.S. military personnel are fighting with and against different Muslim forces around the world. As a military and economic superpower, the United States faces challenges in the Middle East as is does in Africa, Asia, Europe and every other region of the world.
For some in this community, however, a small group of Muslim faithful and their mosque pose the greatest threat to their way of life.
The world, however, will continue to grow beyond them and their prejudices.


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Miami Sting Sign Two South Florida NativesFebruary 5, 2013 - Ultimate Indoor Football League (UIFL) - Miami Sting Press Release
Dennis Brown was ranked the number one quarter back in South Florida before signing a letter of intent to the University of Connecticut. He started as a true freshman and concluded his collegiate career at Norfolk State University where he was named All - American. He later went on to sign a three year deal with the CFL's Calgary Stampeders followed by appearances in the IFL, AFL and UFL.
Julius Eppinger attended Miami High School, where he was a dual athlete, excelling in both Basketball and Football. He was an All - Miami Dade selection in Football, catching 45 passes for 950 yards. Eppinger went on to attend Florida International University and currently holds the number ten spot for all time receiving yards and number five spot for all time return yards. Eppinger has been playing on a professional level since 2007. Last season he averaged 100.7 yards per game with 19 recorded touchdown passes in 2012.
The Miami Sting kick off its season on March 1st 2013, playing all homes games at the Bank United Center at the University of Miami campus. For Season Ticket information contact 305-974-1550. For more information on the Miami Sting, visit www.stingfootball.com.
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Ultimate Indoor Football League Stories from February 5, 2013
- Miami Sting Sign Two South Florida Natives - Miami Sting
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.


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Oregon State running back Storm Woods will look for room tonight against a porous Cal defense.
- Filed Under
Manion on fire: OSU quarterback Sean Mannion leads the nation in passing yards with 2,511 (418.5 ypg) and touchdown passes (25), and has five consecutive 350-yard passing games, a school record. Cal's defense is the worst in the Pac-12 statistically, and the Golden Bears are allowing a league-high 43.7 points and 518 yards.
Harper vs. OSU cornerbacks: Cal wide receiver Chris Harper is averaging 114 ypg. He'll be working against cornerbacks Steven Nelson and Rashad Reynolds, who have combined for eight interceptions.
Bowl eligible: Not that the Beavers need any extra incentive, but a victory makes them bowl eligible.
Night owls on the road: Another road night game for the Beavers - no big deal. OSU won at Utah and Washington State in late games and is 3-0 on the road this season.
True freshman quarterback Jared Goff (6-4, 200) has completed 59.3 percent of his passes for 2,016 yards with nine touchdowns and six interceptions. He's ranked sixth nationally in passing yards per game (336).
In a 37-30 victory against Portland State, Goff became the first Cal quarterback since 1996 to throw for 400 yards or more in back-to-back games. He threw for 371 yards and three scores in a loss to No. 4 Ohio State.
OSU: LB Michael Doctor (knee), OL Roman Sapolu (foot) and tight end Connor Hamlett (knee) are out; SE Richard Mullaney (turf toe) is questionable; TE Tyler Perry (shoulder) is probable. CAL: LB Nathan Broussard (knee), DT Austin Clark (knee), DT Mustafa Jalil (knee), CB Steven McClure (knee), SS Avery Sebastian (Achilles), OL Matt Cochran (ankle) and OL Chris Adcock (undisclosed) are out; DE Breenan Scarlett (hand) is questionable.
Clear skies with temperatures expected to be in the mid 60s.
Cal leads the overall series 34-31, but OSU has won five of the past six games, including five in a row in Berkeley.
Oregon State 45, Cal 28
- Gary Horowitz


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