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"Cheese – milk's leap toward immortality."
Clifton Fadiman
Say cheese and faces light up. Big smiles all around. Cheese is a universal pleaser, a crowd puller, with few and far between who don't fall for it's cheesy charm. I've been on a soft cheese trip for a while, using my spare time trying to make mascarpone, ricotta, quark, cottage cheese etc at home. So when I got invited by Foodbuzz to post this month, I had this big SMILE!! SAY CHEESE!!
I made cottage cheese, mascarpone, ricotta, quark and mozzarella. All, but the last, were outstanding. I had little luck with the mozzarella as it didn't get stretchy and 'taffy like'. It reached some in between point, which could be used, but I don't think I'll attempt making it again. The other four were very very good, and even though I've made them before, I attempted a few with a different recipe. I stuck to the quark recipe though …a wonderful one from Arwen @ HogletK .
This is my own little recipe, as I love to use vanilla sugar in food now. My Mom used crushed ice to make cold coffee when we were young. We had a strong canvas bag and a mallet next to the blender at all times!
Flesh of 2 large mangoes
500 gms low fat yogurt
6-7 tbsps of vanilla sugar (adjust if required)
10 cubes of ice, crushed
Whiz all the ingredients in the blender till smooth.
Serve in tall glasses, garnished with sprig of mint, or keep chilled until required. Can be made the previous night.
Note: use regular sugar instead of vanilla sugar if you like.
Serves 4-6
I've made some refreshing Mango Lassi since the post is all about dairy products, so come grab a glass, & let's SAY CHEESE!
Characterized by a mild, clean taste, and soft texture, fresh cheese is simple to make. They are unripened, rindless cheeses, which vary in consistency from the creamy and smooth – fromage frais, cream cheese and mascarpone, to thicker curd mixtures – ricotta, pot cheese and cottage cheese. The fat content varies, with many low fat and skimmed milk recipe versions available.
Mascarpone is a fresh (i.e. not aged or ripened) soft cows' milk cheese which originated from Lombardy, Italy. Technically speaking, it is not cheese as it is produced by a culture being added to the cream which has been removed during the production of Parmesan. However it is generally described as a curd cheese. Once the culture has been added, the cream is heated and left to thicken. It has a creamy white colour, a slightly sweet taste making it highly suitable for desserts, and a soft, dense, texture which can be easily spread. Mascarpone
Recipe adapted from Addicted Sweet Tooth
1 litre cream (I used 25% low fat cream;you can use 36% whipping cream)
2 tbsp fresh lime/lemon juice ( juice of 1 ½ limes approx)
Heat the cream over a waterbath/double boiler until it reaches 180ºF/82ºC
Stir in the lime/lemon juice and keep at this temperature for a few moments longer until it starts to thicken.
Remove from heat, cover, and let sit at room temperature until it is cooled down a bit.
Refrigerate over night. The next day it will have thickened further.
Pour it in a strainer lined with multiple layers of cheesecloth or clean towel. Refrigerate for about 24 hours to let the whey drain
1/2 cup cultured buttermilk
3 1/2 cups full cream milk
If your milk is not pasteurised you should bring it to the boil, then allow it to cool to room temperature (covered with a lid).
Stir the buttermilk into the milk in a container you can cover.
Put the container in a warm place. Allow the culture to proceed for ~24 hours, or until the curds and whey separate. At first the milk will look grainy, and eventually the curds will float on the whey. The grainy stage is probably sufficient, but might give a lower yield.
Dampen a clean tea towel and use it to line a sieve. Place the sieve over a basin. Pour the curds and whey into the strainer. Bring the tea towel together so that it covers your quark and do it up with a rubber band. Place the entire draining apparatus in the fridge.
Allow to drain in the fridge overnight, or for 24 hours. The drained quark should have a consistency similar to sour cream, but it has a more sour taste.
Recipe posted by David Lebovitz of DavidLebovitz.com
2 quarts whole milk
1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons white vinegar
1 teaspoon salt
In a large pot, bring the milk, yogurt, heavy cream (if using), vinegar, and salt to a boil. Very gently boil for one to two minutes, until the milk is curdled.
Meanwhile, line a strainer with a few layers of cheesecloth and set it over a deep bowl.
Pour the milk mixture into the strainer and let drain for 15 minutes. Gather the cheesecloth around the curds and squeeze gently to extract any excess liquid.
Storage: Homemade ricotta is best served slightly warm, although it can be refrigerated for up to three days, if desired.
Makes 2 cups.
3.5 litres whole milk
3 tbsp white vinegar
Bring 3.5 litres of milk to a boil, add 3 tbsp of white vinegar to it, & stir constantly till small curd form & whey becomes translucent.
Unmold it, rinse under cool water, place in bowl, cover with water & refrigerate until use, or use immediately.
Let's head for the table…
Quark & Mascarpone Cream Cheese
Whisk ½ cup quark + 1 heaped tbsp mascarpone + 2 cloves of minced garlic + salt to taste in a bowl.
Toast slices of baguettes brushed with olive oil. Top with cream cheese, cream cheese, mozzarella & sliced tomatoes, or, cream cheese and pesto. You can find a wonderful recipe for Almost No Knead Baguette here (A King Arthur Flour recipe).
adapted from The Practical Encyclopaedia of Baking, pg 444
450gms all purpose flour
280ml warm water
20gms fresh yeast
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp sea salt
200gms homemade ricotta
1/2 cup Romesco sauce
1 cup walnuts, chopped
Olive oil for brushing
Take 4 tbsps of water from the 280ml, & dissolve the fresh yeast into it. Stir the salt & 2 tbsp olive oil into the remaining water.
Make a well with the flour, & pour the dissolved yeast & water mixture into it. Knead to a dough, kneading further on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, till it gets smooth & elastic.
Place in an oiled bowl, cover the bowl with cling wrap & leave in a warm place for about an hour until doubled.
Punch down & divide into 4 balls of dough (or 2 if you have a big oven)
Roll out to about an 8″ circle, brush with 1/4 of the Romesco, sprinkle with 1/4 of the walnuts, & 1/4 of the crumbled ricotta. Season lightly with salt.
Fold over the dough 2-3 times on itself to incorporate the stuffing. Shape each back into a ball.
Flatten each & fold the bottom third up, & top third down to make an oblong.
Roll into ovals with a flat base, cut slits diagonally, three on each side. Pull slightly to open the cuts.
Place on oiled baking sheets. Cover with cling wrap & leave to double for 35-40minutes.
Preheat the oven to 220C, brush the loaves with olive oil, & bake for approximately 25-30 minutes till golden brown. Cool on racks. Serve warm or at room temperature.
It's fun to serve slabs of cottage cheese grilled in different ways. If I make regular plain cottage cheese, I sometimes give it a Middle Eastern marinade, & serve it with cherry tomatoes. I also like using it as a savoury filling in lentil pancakes.
Grill slabs of herbed cottage cheese on a very hot grill pan brushed with oil. Carefully flip over & grill the other side too. serve hot with romesco sauce.
Note: Always serve grilled cottage cheese or paneer tikkas hot, straight off the fire/oven, because they tend to get rubbery as they get cold.
Here's a chicken ricotta pesto lasagna, adapted from a vegetarian version of Pesto Lasagna from channel4.com. It's a great lasagna, made interesting with the addition of pesto. It's a wonderful make ahead recipe. Another good recipe, my fave so far is the Chicken Ricotta Lasagna, which can be found here.
Chicken Ricotta Pesto Lasagna
Adapted from Pesto Lasagna Recipe @ Channel4.com
200g fresh basil leaves, plus extra to serve
200g toasted almonds
6 garlic cloves, chopped roughly
200ml fruity extra-virgin olive oil, plus 1 tbsp
250g homemade ricotta, drained
1 quantity quick tomato sauce
1 quantity bechamel
500-750gms cooked chicken mince
200gms homemade mozarella
1 tsp salt
20 lasagne sheets
Put the basil, almonds, garlic, a good pinch of salt and 200ml olive oil into a food processor and pulse to give a uniform and creamy consistency. Transfer to a bowl and mix in the ricotta.
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 180°C. Cook the sheets of lasagna, and lay out flat on kitchen towels. Reserve a little pasta water.
Loosen the pesto with a little of the pasta cooking water. Spread a couple of tablespoons of tomato sauce in the base of a deep 1-litre ovenproof dish. Arrange 4 lasagne sheets on top. Spread some pesto-ricotta, some chicken mince, followed with bechamel.
Repeat 5 times, finishing with a layer of mozzarella. Bake for 15-20 minutes, covered, until cooked through and hot.
Meanwhile, preheat the grill to high.
Grill for a 5-7 minutes, until golden. Cut into wedges and serve garnished with a scattering of basil leaves.
A meal without spuds, is a meal incomplete. I used some mozarella in the lasagna and some in the crostini. The remaining went in here. Spuds we loved … full of garlicy & cheesy flavour. To keep fibre in the meal, these green beans tossed in a mix of quark and olive oil were good.
Mash some boiled potatoes. Mix in grated mozarella, minced garlic, salt & pepper. Roll into crouqttes & shallow fry on low heat till brown on all sides.
Toss blanched green beans in a mixture of roasted garlic, olive oil and a little quark.Serve warm / room temperature.
This was the most fun part of the cheesy tale. I put together a variety of desserts with mascarpone cheese as the base, oscillating between my two loves – coffee & fruit. I made a tiramisu using a batch of failed macarons, then a mango mascarpone budini using the same crisp almond cookies, and two 'faux' mascarpone panna cottas too. 'Faux' because panna cotta is cooked cream & I didn't cook the cream here. There is a lot of variety you can get together in desserts using mascarpone.
For both the tiramisu and budini, I just whipped up the mascarpone with vanilla sugar.
Mango Mascarpone Budini
adapted from this recipe @ Epicurious.com
Crumble some macarons into the base of an ice cream/dessert bowl. Top with mascarpone. Add chopped mango pieces. Cover with a layer of mascarpone. Just before serving, top with roughly crumbled macarons.
Line a desert ring with parchment paper & place it on a lined tray. Make a layer of crumbled macarons, sprinkling of strong coffee, layer of mascarpone. Repeat twice, ending with mascarpone. Leave to set at least 6-8 hours. Dust with cocoa just before serving. Mascarpone Panna Cotta
Soften 1 tsp gelatin over 3 tbsp of cream.
Whisk 250gms of mascarpone, 200ml low fat cream (-3 tbsp) with the vanilla sugar. Strain the softened gelatin into this, & whisk till well blended. Divide into 2.
For the mango panna cotta, gently fold in some chopped mangoes, reserving a few pieces to make a sauce for the top if required.
For the coffee panna cotta, line the base of some silicon cases with crumbled macarons. Drizzle over some strong coffee. Top with whipped mascarpone. Leave to set for 6-8 hours, or better still, overnight.
Thank you for being part of my new found love. Hope you had a cheesy good time!
120 Comments
Deeba, that's an absolutely incredible work. Keep it up.I got my milk thermometer recently, have to try them.
What a fantastic post! You've really outdone yourself here… Wonderful!
What a great post, Deeba! You've covered all of my favorite cheeses! Also, I have never tried making my mango lassis with vanilla sugar. I definitely have to try it…
Amazing! A friend of mine and I tried making mozzarella but were a bit disappointed with the final result. It is encouraging that you had so much luck with the other kinds. What was the yield on the mascarpone? It looks fabulous!
Wonderful.Cheesemaking is so much fun and Im glad youbtaclked this. I need to get back to making cheese and I will be referencing this post often.
Am awesutck to see this great and incredible work Deeba..hats off, such a beautiful post..
And think this post is really amazing and beauty as always dear Deeba, is amazing, I love mascarpones is one of my favorite cheese and you made it!!!I dont have words, the pictures are wonderful too!!! xxxGloria
There is just so much incredible good stuff going on here, I have no idea how I will take it all in, but its getting bookmarked so I can enjoy it in leisure.
Thanks for sharing all of this wonderful stuff.
Deeba what an absolutely OUTSTANDING post!! I just made some little plum tortes with ricotta frosting — SO WISH I HAD MADE MY OWN!! Next time! Thanks for this.
I think you've outdone yourself on this post! So much great information and yet still beautiful!
Oh Deeba, you're incredible! I can't believe you made 4 types of cheese! And thank you for showing how you made them. I love ricotta cheese, but didn't know the process for making it at home. Now I realize that I've been doing it all along, as that's how I make ras malai!
What an incredible feast any of these cheeses would make Deeba. I have tried my hand at making paneer which may be what you refer to as cottage cheese…no matter…. I am sure it was all delicious!!
Wow.. Amazing and outstanding post.. That is a whole lot of inspiration for us new food bloggers and part time kitchen adventurers:). Keep up the great work!.. love the presentation, the amazing range of dishes you made with all the cheese.. love everything about it!.
You are just amazing. I don't even know know what to say except holy cow! That is serious dedication to cooking my friend!
What a lovely post…different and really great!
wow you made cheese from scratch! that IS something!!
What an incredible post.Specially for me since we don't get most of the cheese readymade!thanks!Love all your recipes but now you are HMCG (Home-Made Cheese goddess) :)Thanks a lot and keep the recipes coming!
Wow, all these homemade cheeses are fantastic and the dishes that you made with the cheeses are just outstanding! An excellent 24,24,24 post, wow!
WOW WOW WOW!! You are so inspiring Deeba! And this post is so informative!! INCREDIBLE!
Great Job. I recenlty purchased quark for the 1st time at the local farmer's market, it was fantastic and now I can make my own.
I can't believe how incredibly talented you are and how lame my comment sounds. Fantastic. Absolutely wonderful.
Thats a fantastic post deeba, i have never made any of the above cheeses at home other than paneer and would love to try mascarpone as i am very much fond of it and we dont get it in india, this is a very helpful post, thanks a ton
OMG. Amazing and super interesting post. And useful too.
Just outstanding Deeba! Great post with so much information, love all the savoury and sweet ideas of how to use the cheese. Well done again!
awesome post. i guess you should come up with a cookbook. (featuring some,no, more eggless baking recipes too)I will be the first one to buy it. 🙂
Good on you for trying so many types of cheese! I'm keen to try the ricotta, but more especially the paneer. I love grilled cheese!
you did an awesome job!!! i am bookmarking so i can try some of your recipes!!! congratulations on your foodbuzz 24,24,24!
First we make the same bread recipe and post it on the same day, and now we're both doing 24, 24, 24 posts during the same month! Too funny. Are we psychically linked?
I have been dying to do more of making my own cheese! This post is very inspiring. I've made a few things like paneer before, but it's time I tried some more!
This post is fantastic. I LOVE all of the pictures. I think someone needs to give you a book deal to write a book called, "The Cheese Bible for Beginners" or something like that.
Oh! AND you included a recipe for me to use my vanilla sugar in! (Thanks for teaching me all about that as well!) You are the BEST!
Deeba, a question.. In the US, buttermilk tastes very very different from the buttermilk or chaas in India. So when the recipe calls for buttermilk, which buttermilk did u use?
Deeba, you are a genius! I've seen so many blogs make ricotta but never mascarpone so I always assumed it would be out of my reach. Who knew it was so easy? 😀 Thankyou!
This is such an outstanding 24, 24, 24 post – gorgeous photos (as always), wonderful recipes and the ability to make me hungry with just one glance! The most I've done so far is to make crème fraîche but these cheese look so good and you make it look so easy to do, I may have to give it a shot. 😎
Congratulations on a wonderful 24, 24, 24!
Gorgeous! I've never tried making my own cheese but I do love mascarpone and may have to making my own the next time I want to use it! Definitely bookmarking this for later.
Brilliant post Deeba – The pics are outstanding and this whole write up is so informative ! You are truly a kitchen godess !!
You are indeed a very passionate foodie!!!
this post has got to be one of the best cheesey posts I have read in a long time – and i mean that in the best possible way. deeba – you are utterly incredible.
Deeba, you never cease to amaze me! And amaze me! And Amaze me! I am on the floor, stunned at the work you put in here and the beauty of this post! I bow down to you, oh Cheese Queen! And I may even make a few of these recipes! Wow! Gorgeous!
Guess all the others before me here have said it all. So you're queen of home-mde cheese!
Just where do you find the time and energy?
This is fabulous! I've only ever made paneer but I would love to try my hand at other homemade cheeses – this is getting bookmarked for sure 🙂
Wwwoow..this is simply superb! what a fantastic job Deeba!
What an amazing post. It's full of yummy goodness.
Cheese Extravaganza !! bravo – the mascarpone looks heavenly!
Wow Dee!! I am in complete awe of you! Such amazing cheeses! Bookmarked for reference, if I EVER decide to make a cheese!! You've made it all sound so easy 🙂
i fall in love with people like you. you make your own cheese!! amazing.
i cannot be arsed and often pop to the supermarket for lacklustre cheeses or a good fromagerie and get ripped off for the bloody bit of fermented thing. gosh…i need to be a better foodie. x
wow this is a really post… especially since mascaporane and ricotta is expensive and not easily available here.
wow, simply superb post!
I'm not exaggerating when I say this but this is the BEST food blog post EVER!! brilliant so informative.. I would have taken days no no weeks to find this info! amazing amazing!
PS: your pics seem to be getting better and better!
Try this recipe for Moz. Moz isn't the easy cheese some folks claim, but it is fun and rewarding.
another is Riki Caroll's site, which I think is what your 30 minute Moz recipe was based from. Riki's recipe has more tips to work the cheese than the Saveur recipe.
This is such an awesome post! I have been making my own cultured dairy products (including cheese) lately and am really enjoying it! I think I really want to try quark! Looks beautiful!
I cannot not add to the stream of compliments here… "BOW".. you are truly incredible, mascaporne, ricotta, quark, all the recipes I used to just skim as I couldnt access these, but now homemade? You've set the bar very high indeed. Thanks Deeba. You're a hero. Have I said too much 🙂 🙂
I am loving this post! Thanks for sharing how to make all the different kinds of cheese! I will have to give them a try. 😉
Deeba, you are amazing! So much inspiration in one post! Cheeses, bread and desserts. I linked to the mascarpone from Not Quite Nigella's post and I'm so glad I clicked on the link! I'm going to try all of this soon.Thanks, Marilyn
how did I ever miss this post! AMAZING!!!!!
how did I ever miss this post! AMAZING!!!!!
How did I miss this amazing post? You are a goddess! Will you marry me, Deeba? 🙂
deeba, i missed this… this is a lovely informative post. quark is curd cheese and so is srikhand – which is basically sweetened, flavoured with spices and nuts. khatta meetha kinds with elaichi, kesar or mango. where did u get that paneer strainer from? is it available in delhi?
amaizing post, you make me speachless. it looks like you had great fun with cheeses.keep experimenting & posting.
This is almost a mini encyclopedia of home-made cheese and what to do with it – I'm now wondering what to start with!
Hi Deeba,
I wanted to know, what is the basic difference between Paneer and the rest of the cheeses above? I see that in all preparations, the milk is curdled and then strained. Is it the kind of souring agent used to curdle the cheese, and the times?
You have blown my mind here! Amazing! And this may have just pushed me over the "no! I'm scared to make my own cheese!" limit. But oh my where to start? Gorgeous post, darling!
Absolutely gorgeous!!! And so many great ideas.
Hello, can you make quark if you don't have buttermilk? Maybe by using milk with lemon juice (which is my usual buttermilk substitution)? Thanks, I'm keen to try!
Oh wow thanks!!! I looked up how to make mascarpone cheese on the internet and following the directions of two websites attempted to make it but I had cheesecloth problems in addition to some other unclear info in the instructions and my cheese did not turn out quite right. Neither of the instructions I used mentioned refrigerating the mixture BEFORE straining it which may have helped me alot since I did not have the correct (Fine) cheesecloth. I think I lost of of my cheese in the cloth because the fiber holes were too big. I will refrigerate FIRST next time. They also did not mention FRESH lemon juice so I used bottled which may have also made a difference. Nor did they say to use FINE cheesecloth or to let the mixture heat to 180/190 BEFORE adding the lemon juice. The instructions were vague in that regard so I assumed it didn't make a difference. Needless to say I am very disappointed but thanks to YOUR site and a few others I have more information and will try again soon!
Everything looks simply great. You did a wonderful job.
too gud
wow! wow! wow1
very informative and beautiful pics as always. visiting your site is a pleasure. mascarpone is on my list of things to make as i am nuts bout tiramisu. ur post make me feel i can do it
Very useful post. Thanks for taking the time to share your view with us.
Well done. Thanks for the great post. Bookmarked
Wonderful post, so much great info! I am making your mascarpone tomorrow! And the other cheeses later on… Thnaks so much!!
Hi Deeba,
I made the mascarpone and it was absolutely delicious! Much better than all my previous attempts. Thanks so much. I only made a small amount to try, so I did not have enough for tiramisu, but that's my plan for the next batch ;-). For now I used mascarpone for macaron filling, I call them mascarpons :-).
I mentioned your recipe and blog in my post, I hope it's ok http://cookingrookie.blogspot.com/2011/05/mascarpon.html
What an amazing post Deeba, thank you for sharing this recipe, expecially of homemade mascarpone and ricotta. Till now, I have been buying them from gourmet grocery stores at a very exorbitant price, as you know how heavy it gets on pocket while buying cheese. I have become a fan of yours.
hello mam, i have tried many delicious recpies from your wonderful site. thanks a lot for giving details for each recpie.
i want to make these cheeses but i dont have that thermometer ,can u please tell me the name of that thermometer and where to get it from, it will be great help.
thanks and waiting for your reply.
still waiting for reply from your side
Am going to experiment with the mascarpone – recently bought it for Rs. 172/200 gms (Flanders from Modern Bazaar) – so unfair, it costs Rs. 30 less in Delhi 🙁
Wow Deeba,
Amazing site! Super pics!
Please could u be more specific as to what u mean when u say cultured buttermilk.
Hey Deeba,
Great site and super pics!
Please could u be more specific as to what is considered cultured buttermilk in India.
Thanks Deeba,
In Bombay we don't get buttermilk sold by Amul or Mother Dairy so i will just make it at home with dahi and water.
Really informative blog about cheese making. I think cream cheese is missing here. It probably used for making mousse. Could u share the recipe of cream cheese. Thanks.
Deeba……thank you so much for the home made cheese recipes! Appreciate your generosity in sharing your knowledge and passion for food and baking. Wish you the very best!
Tried the ricotta. Wonderful!!! I wanted to eat the whole bowl instead of using it with my recipe. I don't know if I will buy store bought again.
Hi Deeba,
Tried the mascarpone and it turned out superb! Was on such a high!
Is there anything else I can use beside lime juice so that I don't get that sour taste.
hi, what does it mean by cream milk? Like regular whole milk?
Love love all your experiment/recipes/pics!
Hi Deeba
Have been wanting to try quark cheese!! Can we use tetra pack buttermilk ?
Hi Deeba, I tried your mascarpone recipe and it turned up very good. This gives me a boost to try your recipe for quark. Am a little not clear here, when you refer to 'cultured buttlermilk', that means buttermilk churned from home made curd is ruled out, am I rt? I read your reply to a query about this and you've mentioned amul buttermilk. Will surely look up in the grocery stores in my next trip. Any other brand to procure this? Thanks so much !
I love your post. I will say that I have made mozzarella a couple times not and it has gotten better each time I make it. It takes a bit of practice. If you warm it in the microwave for 30 – 60 seconds it will be "taffy like" to pull and stretch, as it cools off put it in for another 30 seconds. The more you work it the firmer it becomes when it cools.
Deeba you are a baking genius….Please write a book I am dead sure it will be an instant hit….always curious about "Have you attended any culinary institutes?"
hi Deeba.. Thanks for the great recipe for mascarpone cheese. It came out really well. Would like to know how to store it and how long does it last? Thanks- Sithara.
p.s. Tried your Amaranth Choc. cake-It was fab!!:)
Hi Deeba, I have made mascarpone using Amul low fat cream several times with perfect results. Now with Amul whipping cream available with a higher fat content (30%) decided to use it this time .However the mascarpone remained slightly runny even after leaving in the sieve for about 12 hrs.Am wondering what went wrong…should I increase the lemon juice to 2.5 tbsps ? TIA


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Allan PetersenShared publicly -
Writers - check out 22 of Pixar's rules of storytelling. They're short, they're pithy, and they're all absolutely spot on.
(h/t to +Felicia Day's Facebook feed)
(h/t to +Felicia Day's Facebook feed)
Emma Coats is a Storyboard Artist at Pixar Animation Studios. From time to time she tweets pithy rules, poignant guidelines, and important instructions she's picked up from her more senior colleagues ...
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Combining their scores from Monday and the previous elimination-free week, Kirstie Alley and Maksim Chmerkovskiy were again in the bottom spot, just below Apolo Ohno and Karina Smirnoff.
Gilles Marini and Peta Murgatroyd were uncharacteristically in the bottom three.
Dancing with the Stars: Which Couple Had a Perfect Night?
Originally posted 11/12/2012 11:15PM
After performing twice last week, the remaining couples on Dancing with the Stars had double duty again Monday night. Each pair performed a tribute to America's troops as well as a trio dance with an eliminated pro or member of the DWTS troupe.
And it was a night of big scores! But the pressure is on ahead of Tuesday's double elimination.
Keep reading for all the details ...
Dancing with the Stars: Tony Dovolani & Melissa Rycroft's Big Night
Originally posted 11/05/2012 10:35PM
It was a busy night on Dancing with the Stars Monday – but not for an injured Derek Hough.
The pro sat out this week's competition, in which the seven remaining couples performed a dance fusion and competed in a swing dance marathon. But Hough's partner Shawn Johnson was in good hands with her season 8 partner, Mark Ballas.
Keep reading to find out how they did in the dance fusion, which required the couples to blend two different styles during one song, and the four-minute swing marathon.
The most buzzed about stars this minute!
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Mark Naison: What is daily life for young people of color who are poor is quite literally out of sight and out of mind, and thereby unimaginable, not only for middle class and wealthy residents of cities, but for the mayors of thoses cities.
A Victory for Outer Borough New York
Mark Naison: So the event was cancelled. Not because the Mayor came to his senses. But because outer borough New York had risen in revolt.
Intimidating the Poor: The Ugly Underside of Hipster New York
Mark Naison: New York is the greatest city in the world if you have cash in your pocket and love culture and the arts, but if you are poor, and a person of color, Michael Bloomberg's New York can be an expensively maintained prison,
Jerry Brown's Budget
Ron Wolff: California's "new" (but experienced) governor is bringing some urgently needed honesty and fresh thinking to the budgeting process in a state weary of smoke, mirrors, a two-thirds requirement in the legislature for tax increases, and the ravages of a recession imposed largely by external forces.
"History Is a Protective Armor Against Being Misled"
Berry Craig: Republicans like McCain love it when Buick Guys trash "liberal elitists." They love it more when Buick Guys vote Republican. Never mind that that the polices of the GOP (and its conservative Southern "Blue Dog" Democratic soul mates) help make the rich richer and leave Buick Guys living in housing projects and driving heaps.


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Vote By Mail
To obtain a Vote By Mail ballot, a registered voter should submit a completed Vote By Mail ballot application or personal letter to the county elections official. Your Sample Ballot booklet contains a Vote By Mail ballot application. Sample Ballot booklets are mailed to registered voters starting 40 days before an election. A letter request for a Vote By Mail ballot can be mailed almost any time before an election. All applications must reach the Ventura County Elections Division no later than seven days before the election. The earlier the better. Current law allows anyone desiring to become a Permanent Vote By Mail voter to apply and receive a ballot by mail for all elections.
Mail your ballot application to:
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Drop off completed Vote By Mail ballots at these
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Once the application is processed by the Ventura County Elections Division, the proper ballot will be mailed to the voter.
Vote By Mail Ballot Return
You must return your voted ballot in the envelope provided, making sure you complete all required information on the envelope, including your signature. You may mail your completed Vote By Mail ballot, or return it in person to the Ventura County Elections Division, or drop it off at any Ventura County polling place on election day. Under certain conditions, you may authorize a legally-allowable third party (relative/friend) to return your voted ballot on your behalf. Regardless of how your Vote By Mail ballot is returned, it MUST be received at the Ventura County Elections Division or a polling place by the time polls close (8 p.m.) on Election Day. Vote By Mail ballots received by the Ventura County Elections Division after 8 p.m. on Election Day are not counted.


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Serena Williams is one of the most successful female tennis players of all-time.
She has won 41 singles and 20 doubles titles in her career, but most recently, the aging star was ousted from the French Open, in the first round.
It was the first time in her career she was a one-and-done at a Grand Slam tournament.
Here is how she can bounce back from the disappointing loss:


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European Commission > Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport > Newsletter
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Vice-President Kallas has welcomed the adoption of the 'second stage' Open Skies aviation agreement with the United States. In Luxembourg, Vice-President Kallas, Spanish Minister for Transport José Blanco and the US Ambassador to Luxembourg Cynthia Stroum, together with the Member States' transport ministers, signed the agreement. The full implementation of the first and second stage agreements is expected to give the economy a €12 billion boost as well as create up to 80,000 new jobs.
[full text]
International Relations with USA
The European Commission has decided to ask the Maltese authorities to correctly apply the Directive on the opening-up of the groundhandling market. The European rules on the refuelling of aircraft are not being complied with at the airport of Luqa-Malta. The request to Malta takes the form of a reasoned opinion, the second stage in the EU's infringement proceedings (Article 258 TFEU). If there is no satisfactory reply within two months, the Commission may refer the matter to the European Court of Justice.
The European Commission has decided to refer 13 Member States to the EU's Court of Justice for failing to correctly implement various parts of the basic EU legislation on opening the EU's rail market to competition, known as the "first railway package" (Directives 91/440/EEC, as amended, and 2001/14/EC). Important issues remain to be solved for opening up the railway markets to competition in Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, France, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia and Spain. Member States were required to implement these directives by 15 March 2003. Failure to implement these measures to open the rail market deprives rail operators of opportunities to offer services in other Member States and deprives rail customers of a greater choice of competitive rail services.
The European Commission is backing the first ever international campaign dedicated to reducing the number of fatalities at level crossings, which
has been launched this week. Each year hundreds of people across Europe die in accidents at level crossings, which account for one third of all rail fatalities and 2% of all road deaths.
Road and rail stakeholders held simultaneous events in more than 45 countries on five continents to mark the first International Level Crossing Awareness Day (ILCAD), which uses education to reduce level crossing accidents.
Road Safety
The European Commission and the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have officially concluded negotiations for the establishment of a Memorandum of cooperation in civil aviation research and development. The two delegations, led by Hank Krakowski, FAA Chief Operating Officer, and Daniel Calleja, European Commission's Director of Air Transport, met in Madrid, hosted by the EU Spanish Presidency. The negotiating parties initialled the Memorandum and a first technical Annex promoting interoperability between their respective air traffic management (ATM) modernisation programmes: SESAR and NextGen.
International Relations with USA
Vice-President Siim Kallas, Spanish Minister for Transport José Blanco and the US Ambassador to Luxembourg Cynthia Stroum, together with the Member States' transport ministers,
have signed the "second stage" of the Open Skies
aviation agreement with the United States.
The Agreement provides clear commercial advantages, including greater access for EU airlines to the "Fly America" programme. The United States and Europe have committed to the goal of removing remaining access barriers and will review progress towards this objective on an annual basis. Additional commercial rights will be exchanged in the future subject to following legislative change. See below:
The negotiators also achieved significant improvements in terms of regulatory cooperation:
The European Union and the United States' markets are the largest aviation markets in the world. Together, they represent approximately 60% of global aviation. The economic benefits associated with the implementation of this second stage agreement have been independently estimated to be equivalent to the transatlantic benefits to be expected from a successful conclusion of the Doha round of trade. Following signature of the agreement, the consent of the European Parliament and ratification by all Member States will be necessary for its formal entry into force.
The potential economic benefits of removing the barriers to the EU–US transatlantic market are very significant (Booz Allen Hamilton, January 2007):
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International Relations with the USA
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25 June: Workshop on functional airspace block, Brussels
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Hotel Villa Riis
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How has this hotel rated in the past?
- Tennis Court
- Suites
- Swimming pool
- TV Channel One Russia
- Restaurant
- Continental Breakfast
Photos of Hotel Villa Riis
Travelers also recommend:
- Tennis Court
- Swimming pool
- Restaurant
- Bar/lounge
- Fitness/Health center
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Free parking
- Pets allowed
- Suites
- Continental Breakfast
- Room service
- TV Channel One Russia
Historical Traveler Reviews Hotel Villa Riis Taormina
Not value for money
the location was spot on the room tiny and unfinished when you read there own infomation you will see the bathrooms are all refurbished in marble not i could have done better my self the breakfast was typical hotel apart from powdered juice the bar was never open the staff were friendly a1 view from balcony though fantastic location and resort we had to move rooms after one night as the shower gave up the ghost on the hole cleanliness was ok i will go back to the resort but not to this hotel i dont know how it got a 4 star rating more like 2 stars
Charming Hotel
The Hotel is perfectly located and central for bars, restaurants and shops.
If you want the beach its a 15 min walk to the cable car which takes you down. The hotel is charming and extremely well decorated and maintained. It's oozes a relaxing feeling and the pool area is quiet and not overcrowded. The pool bar was only open on the odd day when enough people were sitting around but that wasn't an issue for us. What we didn't like was the loud music which the barman turned down once asked on the days he was there.
The rooms are small and compact but are well decorated and all have an excellent view and balcony of the valley. The bathrooms were clean and again well decorated.
Breakfast was the only meal on offer at the hotel and it was simple. Bread cheese, Ham, Fruit, yogurts and pastries were on offer.
My only critism is nothing to do with the hotel but the resort generally. There are many restaurants but they all offer the same menu which became repatitive after two weeks. Its the tourist menu basically which isn't great. Locals seem to eat much better with not a menu in view. Be aware of local dishes/specialities especially fish and ask for them.
You will have a wonderfu holiday here.
If you have been to Sorrento its similar.
Pleasantly surprised
After having read the other reviews of this hotel on tripadvisor we very nearly changed our booking to another hotel in Taormina. Being unable to find anything last minute we decided to stick with what we had and I have to say I am so glad that we did.
The breakfast, whilst admittedly they do have powdered fruit juice and a coffee machine, was infinitely superior to hotels we had stayed in the previous week in Venice and Rome.
We had a superior, sea-facing room - the view from the balcony was wonderful, the room was of a decent size and nicely furnished and decorated. In my opinion the location of this hotel in Taormina cannot be beaten - peaceful yet central - a 100m walk to restaurants and shops. The pool area was peaceful and pleasant and the staff were friendly, cheerful and helpful.
A four star view with one star service
its our last day here and frustration takes me to an internet cafe to write about this place. Beautiful view and what could be a great hotel but they are so penny pinching - breakfast is poor with powdered juice essence mixed with water (I kid you not) and apart from that there really is no service. No diet coke or fresh juices in the bar, our phone still does not work one week after arriving and I think they wont spend the money to get it fixed. - Our air con leaked for five days and I mean leaked - towels everywhere - but the hotel owner offered only a smaller room and the rooms arent that big to begin with. Apparently the workmen are on holiday so cannot come to fix anything. The only star was the barman who has a warm personality and is approachable. The family who own the hotel spend the day giving loud orders to the staff and one feels that we are intruding in their private home! However, Taormina is a beautiful place and I would definitely come back here again ' just to a different hotel.
What a disappointment!
Hotel Ville Riis is a disappointment! A huge one! The hotel has been renovated, but not completely and the result is simply terrible. The garden and surroundigns of the hotel, especially at the pool area, could be so lovely if the owner had spent some money on flowers and plants. In stead most of it is concrete...
I will not even describe the facilities for playing tennis, only add a deep sigh!
The breakfast buffet is also terrible - extremely cafeteria like. Afterwards the restaurant is closed and gates locked with huge chains.
The same goes for the pool bar. The gates are also locked with chains and at the staffs convenience one of them comes down to the pool area and takes our order. At their convenience... Simply unacceptable!
The front office staff is rude, unattentive and offers a minimum of service and assistance!
Only the view from the balcony and the location brought a smile to our face while we stayed at that hotel.
Lovely convenient situation
Visited in June 2004 for 1 week. Loved Taormina and, on the whole, were happy with the hotel. The good bits were the aspect from our room, the quite reasonable comfort and cleanliness, and excellent, quiet position for reaching the town. The downsides were the breakfast and the front desk staff attitude - these were definitely worthy only of say 2 stars ! Pity - because with a bit of effort (and some investment) it could be made into a much better hotel in keeping with its great location. Above average score overall simply on the basis of position (and the pool with the birds singing all morning!) - the rest is neutral.
Quite good - eventually!
My wife and I stayed here in September 2004 after a very pleasant week in Lipari.The hotel is under relatively new ownership and changes have been made but we cannot understand how it has reopened ( after a 12 month closure for the refurbishment) to a 4 star rating from its previous 3.
We changed rooms 3 times in the first 2 days and ended up with quite a good room but the whole process tried our patience. The first 2 rooms left a lot to be desired and I doubt that they had been redecorated.
The staff on the whole were quite good, with the exception of the young lady on reception who was clearly a square peg in a round hole and her attitude showed!
Breakfast is only average but the whole place was short staffed which did not help.
The hotel has so much potential and its position is great, situated in a quiet position just outside the main pedestrian street and only 2 minutes from restaurants and bars. It does not have a restaurant of its own which is no problem since Taormina has such a large choice.
Taormina is a lovely town but prices are high - prices on Lipari, where they have to bring everything in by ship, including drinking water were much cheaper!
How disappointing!!
After reading the wonderful reviews on Tripadvisor, my partner and I were so exited at the prospect of spending a week at Villa Riis, but we were very disappointed.
I would have to agree on the great location, the fantastic views and the lovely pool, and could even add that the beds were extremely comfortable. Except for the woman on reception, who wasn't particularly helpful, the staff was friendly and welcoming.
This place has so much potential but it certainly isn't a 4 star hotel; breakfast wasn't great (the juices were disgusting and I couldn't believe that coffee was provided from a vending machine!), the swimming pool dripped into the gym located below, the dead flowers at the reception desk remained there for the whole week (why bother?) and we were woken up at 8am on a Sunday because they needed to repair the lift (at 8:00 am?!).
These might seem like details, but my point is that this place doesn't deserve the ratings/stars it currently has. We won't go back there and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.
Breath taking views !!
The most wonderful location I have ever stayed at. If you are planning to stay here you must get a sea view room. Its more expensive but worth every single cent. The views from the room (which was wonderful too) were just spectacular. Our room faced out over the bay of Naxos with mt Etna in the distance to the right.. The staff in the hotel are relly nice, especially Guissippe. Taormina is a beautiful town. Stay in Villa Riis and you will have wonderful memories to cherish. I only wish I was going back tomorrow. Enjoy !!
Absolutely Fabulous!
I had the fortune of staying here for a week with my partner in July 2004. The hotel was excellent. Perfect location just outside the medieval walls of Taormina, but away from the surrounding road noise. The rooms are exquisite and the gym is fantastic. The pool was also lovely. Above all the staff bent over backwards to help and made our stay very special. I intend to return to The Villa Riis, and would have no problem recommending it to anyone thinking of a stay in Taormina.
TripAdvisor Reviews Hotel Villa Riis Taormina
Travel Blogs from Taormina
Close to Mt Etna
... were more great views back down to the coast from the tiny clifftop church above Taorima. After an extensive search, Sandra, Frank and I purchased a selection of deli items and we all enjoyed a platter back on our balcony at the hotel, with the backdrop of the coastline below and Mt Etna, with the plume of smoke rising from the top. Before our farewell dinner a few of us watched the ...
... via Etna' then turn right at 'villa Bellini' into 'via Umberto' and left at the 'Elvis Presley Bar'. Of course we needed to try the famous cannoli (crispy pastry filled with a sweet ricotta and postachios) and arrancini (large cone shaped of cooked rice with a centre of ragu or cheese and mushrooms). On Saturday night we met and had dinner with the other travellers on the tour. We were very fortunate as there were only 13 of ...
Wet Taormina
... of gin, but finally realized the rain was not going to stop soon. Out with the umbrella's (we'd bought a second one the day before) and started down the hill. Ducked into a little chapel on the way down for a short respite from the rain (no religious symbolism intended). Pretty unique place, built under a rock archway so that two outside walls were of conventional block construction, but two walls and the much of the roof ...
Mount Etna trip, Sicily
... top, we walked along the edge next to two craters, I had lunch at this stop (arancini, coffee and canoli cake). Nice sunny day today. We spent some time waiting for the English people to get back to the bus, thought we had lost them! Next stop was an underground cave, we were issued with a hard hat and torch. Last stop was to ...
Taormina day 1
Breakfast in the hotel, great breakfast at this hotel, home made croissants etc. This hotel is in a great position with great views, just a little tired, the rooms need updating. We walked to the chairlift to get it to the top where the ancient town of Taormina is, we walked around and took photos and had lunch at the Trattoria Piazza Badia, very nice meal. Lunch was antipasto with ...


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Publishers Weekly posts its best books of 2012 lists
Trade publication Publishers Weekly has posted its Best Books 2012 lists, recommendations of 100 books for adults (plus another 40 children's titles) across multiple categories, including fiction, nonfiction, mysteries, romance, SF, comics and more.
Graphic novelist Chris Ware's striking "Building Stories" (Pantheon), which graces the cover of the Best Books package, and Hilary Mantel's Man Booker prize winning historical novel "Bring Up the Bodies" (Holt) top the magazine's overall Top Ten list, which is evenly spit between fiction and nonfiction. »Read Full Blog Post
P!nk, her voice ailing, postpones Bradley Center show
Pop singer P!nk has postponed her Nov. 3 show at the BMO Harris Bradley Center, citing doctors' orders to rest her voice after recovering from inflamed vocal chords and laryngitis.
The show has been rescheduled for Jan. 9. According to a statement Wednesday from promoter Live Nation, all tickets for the Nov. 3 show will be honored on the new date. »Read Full Article(5)
Stephen King, John Mellencamp, T Bone Burnett's 13 years of collaboration brings ghost story to stage
Stephen King fans can enjoy new content across multiple mediums this Halloween season, whether it's a book ("Doctor Sleep," his sequel to "The Shining"), a movie (the remake of "Carrie") or a musical.
Yeah, that's right, a musical. »Read Full Article
2Cellos rock expectations, Pabst Theater
Putting together a rock band? Don't forget the cellos.
There's never been a clear, tried-and-true career path for those who want to "make it" in the pop/rock world. But it's safe to say that playing the cello was never on the to-do list. »Read Full Article
Reading the John Updike stories: 'The Kid's Whistling'
The Library of America recently published 'John Updike: The Collected Stories,' a two-volume boxed set of 186 stories arranged in chronological order. I'm reading one or more a week and commenting on them each Wednesday until I finish the collection or fall apart.
"The Kid's Whistling" could have been subtitled, or even titled, "Man at Work." »Read Full Blog Post
William Rudolph to leave the Milwaukee Art Museum
William Keyse Rudolph, the Milwaukee Art Museum's director of exhibitions and the curator of American art and decorative arts, has accepted a position as chief curator and curator of American art at the San Antonio Museum of Art.
Rudolph, who has been with the museum for about 2 years and 8 months, has elevated the American art collection at the museum and co-curated the museum's recently opened exhibit "Thomas Sully: Painted Performance," described as the first in-depth retrospective for the 19th-century portraitist and a show eight years in the making. »Read Full Blog Post
On Tap Today: Kites, pumpkins, Updike and some pre-season Bucks
Brisk fall weather will soon give way to winter, and what does that mean? Kite Flying Club days are numbered, people! (However, the group is working on a kite-sledding option.) Milwaukee artist Sarah Luther organizes the weekly kite-flying walks as a way to explore the urban landscape with others. This week, you can meet Luther and her kite-flying contingent in a parking lot 35th St. and Juneau Ave. at 7:45 p.m.
What else to do on this Wednesday? Well, it's also time for the Great Pumpkin Fetstival up in Whitefish Bay. It starts tonight (and runs through Sunday). The pumpkin display will be in Old Schoolhoues Park, across the street from the public library, at 5420 N. Marlborough Dr. Pick a pumpkin and carve it in the carving tent. The pumpkins are free. Design a jack-o-lantern, and it will be glowing and on display every night. And there will be live music and nibbles from Pandl's, too. »Read Full Blog Post


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OSA - Ask the Oracle 8 Ball
Do you know how much more WebLogic Server Enterprise Edition now costs? Who is the real leader on performance benchmarks? How will the recent acquisition of Sun affect you? Is Oracle inhibiting your ability to cost effectively develop and manage your critical business workloads? Ask the "Oracle 8-Ball" for the answers.
Provided by: IBM Topic: Data Management Date Added: Aug 2010 Format: PDF


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WASHINGTON — The debt ceiling battle could produce an unlikely winner: smartphone users.
WASHINGTON — Coming soon to the Internet: website addresses that end in ".bank," ".Vegas" and ".Canon." The organization that oversees the Internet address system is preparing to open the floodgates to a nearly limitless selection of new website suffixes, including ones in Arabic, Chinese and other scripts. That could usher in the most sweeping transformation of the Domain Name System since its creation in the 1980s.
Internet braces for new address end-ers
WASHINGTON - Coming soon to the Internet: website addresses that end in ".bank," ''.Vegas" and ".Canon.
WASHINGTON — New government test results show that a proposed high-speed wireless broadband network being launched by a company called LightSquared could jam GPS systems used for aviation, public safety, military operations and other uses.
Our Websites/Apps
Our Products
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Lubbock Avalanche-Journal ©2016. All Rights Reserved.


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Soft wool/cotton fabric is accented with a vibrant pattern of stripes, bringing warmth and color to our ottoman's comfy cushion. The spindle-turned legs have a natural finish that reveals the wood's subtle tonal variations, and rolling casters let you easily move the ottoman whenever you need an extra seat or a place to rest your feet.
This is an upholstered furniture item.
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Return Policy
At Pottery Barn, we take great pride in the quality and craftsmanship of our products. Attention to design, materials, safety and construction is our priority. We carefully inspect your order prior to shipment. Upon receipt, please inspect your purchase and notify us of any damage; we will arrange for a prompt replacement. If, within 7 days for Quick Ship upholstery and 30 days for all other products, you are dissatisfied for any reason, you may return your purchase for a refund of the merchandise value.
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For returns of items purchased from your Pottery Barn registry, we will gladly provide a refund or exchange for the merchandise within 90 days of your event or within 90 days of purchase, whichever date is later.
You may return merchandise through the mail for a refund or replacement. For detailed procedures for returning items through the mail, please contact Customer Service at 1.888.779.5176, 7 days a week, 5:00am - 9:00pm (PT).
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Excessive fetal hiccups
Samantha Carey first time mommy-2B Jaxson Zachary R. DD: 02/12/12
"A moment in my tummy..a lifetime in my heart."
I'd say that sounds pretty normal. My oldest had hiccups several times a day in utero, and it continued after he was born. Baby number 2 has hiccups quite a bit as well. It's just one of those things babies do. I wouldn't worry too much about it
Project Better Place: One good deed at a time can make someone's day a little brigher, and help make the world a Better Place!
DD 8/99, DD 1/02, DS 2/08 ~ NUCB, DD 2/11~ NUCB, DS 9/13 ~ NUCB- home water birth
SAHM ~ Homeschooling mom
My YDS had frequent hiccups, so much so that my husband said that I was full of crap and he couldnt possibly have hiccups that much. After he was born, he had hiccups 4+ times a day too. He is not 14 months and completely fine.
Lauren ~wife to Dustin 7/22/05
Mommy to Dylan 7/28/08 and Owen 10/30/10
I went through a phase a few weeks back where my baby was hiccuping in utero multiple times daily. Now (38.5 weeks) it is only about once a day that I notice. My doctor told me it was a good thing and it generally is the result of the baby "practicing" to breathe. It strengthens the muscles that will help them breathe after they are born.
Oh good lord. I was worried about this too. Same thing happened to me: I GOOGLED IT. big mistake.we need to refrain from googling.
my baby hiccups up to 2-5 times a day. and his hiccups last a long time. I reassured myself with the fact that all of those google links were just anecdotal data. to date, i have not heard anything from a medical preofessional that maintains that a lot of hiccups are a sign of danger.
our babies are just practicing in there!
My first baby hiccuped nonstop it seemed. It would keep me awake for hours at night. This pregnancy it's considerably less.
But, if you fear a cord problem you can always get an ultrasound and see if they can see any knots, etc. But most of that is looked for in the 20 week sonogram anyway. If you're truly worried about it, follow your instinct and have it checked out.
"A fanatic is one who can't change his mind and won't change the subject." -Winston Churchill
My LO hiccuped all the time! Almost all day sometimes. During 30-37weeks there wasnt a day without hiccups!
Her cord was around her shoulder at birth, but it wasnt tight enought to cause any problems.
My entire life is walking outside my arms and I wouldn't have it any other way!
A+D=Emmalyn Amie June 9
Mommy to Leah (10/09), Sarah (8/11), Aubrey (8/13), and Clark (5/15)
Alicia HIS Boo-Thang since '07
Mommy to a DIVA 12/04 and a Preemie Prince 02/12 at 27 weeks
"To have a child is to have the gift of life"


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Aqua Stone Reviews
About Aqua Stone
Aqua Stone is a clay humidifier sold by Telebrands that claims to be an all-natural way to moisturize the air in any room of your house. They promise it uses no electricity or batteries; just fill the basin with water and they state it will absorb and disperse it automatically.
But is Aqua Stone Humidifier really as revolutionary as it sounds? Or is it just another product from Telebrands that on the surface seems cool, but…
How Aqua Stone Works
Aqua Stone Humidifier is a piece of round clay of unknown size and density that looks like an egg; it comes with its own black basin. To use Aqua Stone, they instruct you to pour cold or room temperature water over the Aqua Stone, filling the basin. They claim the clay will naturally and silently absorb the water and then the moist clay will release tiny water droplets into the air. Yay, science is fun!
Aqua Stone Humidifier promises it works in rooms of any and that you won't have to constantly fill or clean it. They add Aqua Stone will naturally regulate the perfect amount of moisture into the air. They claim a humidifier is beneficial to the health, especially in the winter, when lips and skin get dry. They add humidifiers can help treat colds or flu as well as ease asthma and reduce static electricity in the air; however, they provide no source to back up these claims.
Aqua Stone Humidifier Pricing and Returns
Aqua Stone costs $12.99 plus $7.99 S&H for a total of $21.98. At checkout time you can order an additional Aqua Stone for another $7.99 in fees. These fees are non-refundable.
Telebrands offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on Aqua Stone Humidifier; however, you must include a written explanation as to why you are returning it, otherwise they could reject your request. They will keep your $7.99 shipping fee and you will also have to pay to send it back yourself.
Bottom Line: Is Aqua Stone Humidifier a Scam?
The science behind Aqua Stone is valid; clay can serve as a natural humidifier. But there are a few things we feel we should point out about Aqua Stone.
First, and perhaps most importantly, they don't tell you how big it is. This will directly affect the size of the room/area it can moisturize. Without this info, it is difficult to tell if it will work in any room as indicated (Telebrands uses an automated ordering system and customer service cannot be reached without a purchase order number).
Second, this is an "As Seen On TV" Product – in fact, the manufacturers Telebrands invented the ubiquitous red-and-white logo now used by all other companies. These types of products advertised by infomercial may look like a great idea, but are usually cheaply made and consumers end up being disappointed with them upon arrival.
In addition, Telebrands does not have a good track record when it comes to consumer satisfaction. In 2014 they lost their accreditation with the BBB and their rating plunged to an F due to over 1700 complaints in the last 3 years about advertising, products, and billing issues.
If you are experiencing dryness from the cold winter months, there are a few easy remedies aside from buying Aqua Stone or any other humidifier. You can add some plants to the room, boil some water on the stove, or even use a plain terra cotta pot soaked in water. Here are a few more inexpensive ideas.
Let us know what you think of Aqua Stone Humidifier below. Did it moisturize your room or did it leave egg on your face?
1 out 1 people found this review helpful
Stone has black marks on it
Ok so I purchased 5 of these, three for me and two for my big kids. I fill them every other day. I love them, but the stone has black marks on them. I clean it, but the marks do not come off so it looks terrible. One has more marks on it then the other. I have them in my bedrooms. I purchased them in Bed Bath and Beyond. Does anyone know why this is happening?
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Loving it
I bought my humidifier for only $1.99 at DD's. It is working great. I use water and a drop or two of my favorite cologne and it smells up the whole room. I even use lavender oil. It's a great product. Using the additives I put in I don't get any mold. But I do recommend washing the ball every two days.
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
3 out 3 people found this review helpful
It has developed mildew all over the stone. What should I do?
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friendView all 1 commentsHide comments
Jan 3, 2016
It does need to be washed. That would prevent any mold and mildew.
4 out 5 people found this review helpful
Aqua Stone growth is not mold
We have had the Aqua Stone for several months and while it helps somewhat I think it is too small for the room. I see some complaining about mold but the deposits I see on mine are not mold. It appears to be calcium/lime collecting as the water evaporates, like the ring you get when you boil water in a pan.
The humidifying effect would probably work just as well as a bowl of water without the stone, but looks better.
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
4 out 4 people found this review helpful
Aqua Stone
I've only used mine for a week now, so no problems with mold or peeling paint. I do feel I've had improvement from my dry, scratchy throat.
I will say, however, to those who have had a mold problem that it needs to be emptied every morning and rinsed with very hot water. Then the best thing to do would be to allow it to air dry while you are at work.
As a registered nurse I still remember my microbiology teacher explaining that standing water grows bacteria. I had never thought of that before that class. Thus, I altered my habit of adding water to my dog's dish and instead rinsing it with hot water and putting in fresh water daily. This, too, may be the solution to the mold situation. If it does not work I will not use it any longer. Mold is worse than a dry, scratchy throat.
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friendView all 1 commentsHide comments
Nov 20, 2015
Try using 'distilled water'.
3 out 3 people found this review helpful
Aqua Stone
Very disappointed. Had it on my desk at work. Looked great for about two weeks. Came in today and there is mold growing on the stone. Thankfully I did not spend a great deal of money on it.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Aqua Stone experience
I have two of these, one in my bedroom one in my living room. I find my allergies are less bothersome, my allergy meds are not used as frequently as before. The one in my living room developed mold. I bleached it and it's fine. I didn't get mold on the bedroom one. I am assuming that the mold is in the air, I use bottled water only. I am glad that the stone shows the mold. I then use my air purifier. So I feel that the aqua stone is well worth every penny I spent. I have recommended it to my friends and family.
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friendView all 1 commentsHide comments
Feb 18, 2016
"I then use my air purifier". Yea... That would obviously be the explanation for why your allergies got better. Having a random stone lying around won't do anything for your allergies. But, I don't know, filtering the allergens out of the air probably will.
I got my today
Well I just bought one today for only 5.00 dollars at Max Way, and I only used it for a couple of hours and it feels a little different in my living room.
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
2 out 2 people found this review helpful
Great Little Thing
I got my small aqua stone at CVS for approximately $7. It's great for my 10' x 11' room. I measure humidity with a humidity measurer and the Stone's effect shows on the meter. Depending on environmental factors, I also know the Stone works because I can see that the water evaporates. Yes the same effect might be possible with an upside down clay pot, but I like the Stone's look. I used to use baby humidifiers, but their design always seemed disproportionately large compared to their effect. This rock is very easy to fit on a dresser, with no ugly cords or need for any power source. Plus, it feels good to the touch. The tray is smooth and the rock is a little rough, but smoother than some of Avon's porcelains. There is no odor, no plastic, and almost nothing to clean. I can tell when the tray is empty because the stone reverts to ghost white, from being a little beige when wet. Even if the room were larger, I would prefer a few of these, without the whirring and electric field of conventional humidifiers. And, if this one drips or spills there is only oneself to blame, since the design is simple. One can tell with almost no effort whether tampering has occurred, but with conventional humidifiers one must open them to find out if there residue from sissy's aromatherapy rosin. With this device, I don't have to take it to the kitchen to fill and never have to carry much water at a time.
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
3 out 3 people found this review helpful
Love This Product
I have to take allergy medicine at night that completely dry me out and in the middle of the night I'm coughing like crazy; the Aqua Stone has eliminated that for me. Ever since I've had the Aqua Stone I no longer cough at night and if I start coughing I go to get it and I am relived. I will be purchasing more to go in extra rooms. I love it.
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
4 out 4 people found this review helpful
Aunt loves it!
My aunt is now residing in a nursing home. Her room gets warm and dry feeling easily. The Aqua Stone keeps her more comfortable and fits easily and stylishly on one of her shelves!
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend


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Our first time with Celebrity. We stayed in Suite 6146. We were met at embarkation shortly after 1:00 pm by Ashley, an assistant to the Captain's Club. She gave a long stemmed rose and escorted us to Michael's Club where suite guests could wait until cabins were ready where we were provided with canapes and champagne. We only waited 20 minutes and then were walked to our suite by a butler. Butler? What were we going to do with a butler? Our fabulous butler was Peter and our mutually fantastic steward was Bernard. Our suite had fresh flowers, cold champagne, fresh fruit, just beautiful. They both made us feel like we were their only two passengers.
Peter made dinner reservations for us at Normandie our first night which was awesome. The lobster dish I had and the filet my husband had were out of this world, just perfect! We also had dinner at Qsine. Pack your appetite, this place was crazy good! meatballs the size of softballs and the best white sangria ever! All the food, buffets, dining room and room service was above average.
We went on excursions on all islands but St. Kitts, Celebrity offers every activity possible and it was hard to choose. I went several times to the Spa and enjoyed the seaweed wrap, pedicure and massage. One small issue, the ladies are quite pushy selling their spa products and i have a hard time saying no. We were hesitant based on what other reviews were out there about the Summit, but it is a beautiful ship, Captain Leo came over to us in El Bacio and thanked us for choosing Celebrity. We have zero complaints and will only sail Celebrity from now on (have sailed Carnival, Princess and Norweigan).


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PlayStation Vita
Whose with me! Replace your old SquareEnix/Capcom loyalties with Atlus/Sega
- Boards
- PlayStation Vita
- Whose with me! Replace your old SquareEnix/Capcom loyalties with Atlus/Sega
LIEKmudkiepz 4 years ago#51
They make great games and localize some great japanese games
I've never really liked capcom games
I like SE, but they are probably one of the worst run companies in gaming
And Sega can be good, but it has TERRIBLE management (like SE). Who delays a finished game from releasing in the summer until january where it has to compete with tons of other competition (anarchy reigns)
Kilikan5670 4 years ago#52
Or...I can get games from all the companies...Cuz I'm not trying to be loyal to a company like some pet.Lets do that instead.I'm doing that.
PSN: Kilikan670 SF4AE:Ibuki,Oni,Juri; 3SO:Akuma Sean; TTT2:Leo/Asuka
thompsontalker7 4 years ago#53
Kilikan5670 posted...
Or...I can get games from all the companies...Cuz I'm not trying to be loyal to a company like some pet.Lets do that instead.I'm doing that.
No one here's gonna not buy a SE/Capcom game as long as it doesn't suck, but until it does, I think people are simply not gonna put as much trust in them as much as they would other developers.
Not removing this until Dr. Dre's Detox album is out. 11/22/08
8Bomberman 4 years ago#54
Atlus yes, Sega NOOOOOOO
Ihavealotofspac posted...
loyalties? really?
I would, but they cancelled or don't have western releases for the games I want. Thus, I dislike them.
Prince Shondronai 4 years ago#56
syctheweilder posted...
Chrono Trigger remains without a sequel.
Glad I'm not the only one who chooses to believe that.
One of us. One of us. One of us.
Minatokun13 4 years ago#57
I can't vote in your poll because while Atlus is one of my favorite companies, I also still like Square Enix (just less than before). I liked Theatrythm and Dissidia 012, and I didn't hate FFXIII or XIII-2 (though I wish they'd bring Type-0 over). Dream Drop Distance was also my favorite KH game since the original Chain of Memories came out.
Basically, the quality of their games has dropped somewhat, but I'm still enjoying some of the things they put out.
So I'm not replacing my SE loyalty with Atlus, I just am loyal to both (though Atlus a little more so)
You mean the same Sega that churns out crappy Sonic games, screwed Platinum Games, screwed Shenmue and files DMCA complaints at fans?
And the same Atlus that rehashes a 4 year old game with no substantial new features and dumbs it down for the kiddies? Yeah no.
Rage kicked by DarkfflareEX in P4A for beating his ass. Like a bawse.
Not changing this sig until Kanji becomes viable in P4 Arena(started 8/21/2012)
NettoSaito 4 years ago#59
maxmansupa posted...
NettoSaito posted...SEGA has gone down hill faster than anyone else. SEGA forced Sonic Team to release Sonic 06 before it was finished for the holidays, SEGA then blamed it on it's style of play so they switched Sonic games over to the Unleashed style. The original Unleashed games weren't that great, with minor improvements being made in Sonic Colors. Sonic Generations finally did it right, but SEGA flat out said it would be the last Sonic game to use that style, so there goes that.
It's not that they went down hill because they didn't advertise, they didn't make as much money as they hoped because of it. Like I said, just earlier this year SEGA announced that they had to can most of their projects they were working on (non Sonic ones according to them) because they weren't selling many copies of their games.
If people don't know about the games, they wont buy them, and if they don't buy them, SEGA gets nothing. I mean, heck, I bought about 7 or 8 SEGA games in the past 2 years, which basically NO ONE knows about. It's no wonder they didn't make anything off of them...
I'm not saying their development is going down hill, I'm simply saying that they lack the funds to develop many good games.
Square and Capcom on the other hand, are still producing pretty good games at a pretty fast rate, simply because they are still selling.
Kingdom Hearts DDD
Final Fantasy 3 (DS PSP port)
Final Fantasy 13-2 (Yes I actually loved it)
Their TWEWY iOS port was actually pretty cool (but not what we wanted)
Final Fantasy X HD on the way
and so on
As for Capcom...
Monster Hunter Port 3rd/Port 3rd HD
Monster Hunter 3U (3G) Wii U/3DS
Remember Me
EX Troopers
(Lost Planet 3 doesn't look as good as 1 did, but it's still coming)
Resident Evil Revelations
Okami HD
Dragon's Dogma (although I'm not a fan, it was a pretty big hit)
Sure they may not be bringing us everything we want, but at least they're getting more out than SEGA right now...
3DS FC - [1203-9218-7780] | XBL - [NettoSaito] | PSN - [NettoSaito] Please PM me with your FC!
My Backloggery Game List - http://www.backloggery.com/NettoSaito
Square makes good games, while Capcom no matter what, they will always have my Street Fighter I always love, even what they have done it is hard to replace the fighting experience of Street Fighter that I have grown up with, while Hard to replace my rpg love of Final Fantasy.
- Boards
- PlayStation Vita
- Whose with me! Replace your old SquareEnix/Capcom loyalties with Atlus/Sega
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Photos: Amir Khan Working Hard With Ruben Taberes
British junior welterweight star Amir Khan is training hard with his conditioner Ruben Taberes during an open training session in Bolton, north-west England. Khan is preparing to fight undefeated WBC world champion Danny Garcia on July 14th at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.
He might have trouble making 140 soon since he's 5'10.Comment by jus24 on 05-31-2012
Why is he holding up his shirt like he's ripped? I'm confused.Comment by southpaw_07 on 05-31-2012
im surprised that Garcia is fighting Khan, usually Al Haymon is not willing to put out his fighters for a slaughter or a very likely loss, maybe GBP doubt that Garcia will go so much further and they cash him…Comment by southpaw_07 on 05-31-2012
he cant stay @ 140 for much longer, his upper body is that of a 147/54 fighterComment by gaz26 on 05-31-2012
remember khan was only allowed to put on 10lbs. due to the rules of the IBF and now hes not champ he can put as much as he wants back on for fight night, he did look weaker in his…Post a Comment - View More User Comments (15)


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# of Nights: # of Rooms: 1
Additional luxuries and comfort are available in the adults only Executive Warwick Deluxe rooms and Warwick Suites. The Warwick Deluxe rooms and Warwick Suites offer a host of additional extras including exclusive access to the Executive Warwick Lounge with complimentary afternoon tea and pre-dinner cocktails each day.
Bonus Amenities
The following amenities and services are available only to Warwick Deluxe rooms and Warwick Suites:
The Warwick Executive Lounge is open to adults aged 18 years and over only.


text:
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If You Liked The Fifth Element, You'll Love this Photo of Cara Delevingne
Where are you, Jean Paul Gaultier?By Catie L'Heureux
Where are you, Jean Paul Gaultier?By Catie L'Heureux
From animal onesies to sleek suits.By Leah Rodriguez
Live music, Benedict Cumberbatch, and super-sexy dresses.By Hattie Crisell
"Cara Delevingne doesn't exist to feed your narrative or your news feed ."By Allison P. Davis
It's the rare movie that can sacrifice the clean lines of fantasy for the messiness of ordinary life.By Bilge Ebiri
Their eyebrow game is on point.By Greg Cwik
"If there's a tuba there, it's not a party."By Dee Lockett
Plus: Hillary Clinton, Maggie Gyllenhaal, and more highlights from the week's best parties.By Leah Rodriguez
Scenes from her new movie Paper Towns.By Kristin Tice Studeman
"Margo Roth Spiegelman."By Lindsey Weber
Plus: mammoth fur coats, Royal Guard costumes, and more scenes from the final days of fashion month.By Landon Nordeman
The newest brow trend.By Kathleen Hou
They were spotted leaving the clubhouse.By Allison P. Davis
Yes, that Cara Delevingne.By Nate Jones
Together in the front row.By Hattie Crisell
Trending.By Erica Schwiegershausen
He talks about his outsider's view on fashion and being bold with bananas.By Hattie Crisell
Cannot wait.By Véronique Hyland
Certainly not Reese Witherspoon.By Maggie Lange
She says they groom themselves.By Maggie Lange


text:
We shared these thoughts on the 95th birthday of Nelson Mandela on July 18, 2013. These reflections were from AFSC partners, supporters, former AFSC staff and others inspired by the life and work of this global icon.
I celebrate your presence on the planet. Thank you for all you have given.
Aurelia Holliman
Visiting Robben Island in 2010 was a moving reminder of the power of the unconquerable human spirit. Thank you for your relentless commitment to freedom, dignity, and justice. Thank you for the inspiring example you set in your personal life and in your leadership of the new South Africa, offering truth and reconciliation as an alternative to violent retribution. Your powerful witness is a beacon of hope for those emerging from conflict and oppression.
Shan Cretin
You were an inspiration to my work with the Madison Area Committee on Southern Africa (MACSA) from 1969–1994, and to my work with Jerry Herman and Bill Sutherland at AFSC. And knowing that "a luta continua," I think of you each time I receive a mailing from Shared Interest and Africa Focus. Amandla!
Meg Gardner Skinner
You are a great champion in the struggle for justice for all the people of South Africa and for the larger global community seeking peace, dignity, and full rights. I engaged often with issues of South Africa and the anti-Apartheid campaign in my work on the AFSC Board and especially on the Peace Education Executive Committee as well as in my role on campus at the University of Massachusetts Amherst through the 1960s and 1970s. When I became Director of the AFSC Washington, D.C. Office in 1983, South Africa and Apartheid were consistent, at times urgent, issues on which I focused through public advocacy, lobbying Congress and the Executive Branch (White House and State Department), hosting delegations and special visitors (e.g. Helen Suzman), and occasions for public witness— especially civil disobedience at the Embassy of South Africa. I was arrested several times (in good company) at the Embassy. I joined with so many others in celebration and thanksgiving when you were released from prison and again when the Apartheid regime ended and a new day for full democracy in South Africa dawned.
James H. Matlack
Your work inspired many in my early adult life to urge our college(s) and schools to divest their holdings in the part of the South African economy that were supporting Apartheid. Some of these schools/ colleges are Quaker related. You are a spiritual enabler.
Love from, Peter Lane
I am humbled by your great work. Peace and blessings be with you and your family always.
Charles Anthony Ancrum
During the summer of 1985, I marched in front of the South African Embassy in Washington, D.C., to demand your freedom and to demand an end to apartheid. There were about 3,000 of us, all unionized teachers, on that day. You remain one of my favorite persons all of these years later. And I am still fighting for peace and justice.
Thank you for your work in the struggle, David Gilbert Oddo
You have been an inspiration in my life and for everyone who witnesses your life. I saw you in NYC (from a distance) when you came here for the special parade. Thank you.
Lynda Crawford
I sometimes give my intermediate Latin students a passage from Long Walk to Freedom about two paragraphs long as a translation exercise. I remind them that you, like most lawyers of your generation, would have learned at least the rudiments of the language, but few have put that education to the service of humanity in such an extraordinary way.
Kristin Lord, Dept. of Archaeology and Classical Studies, Wilfrid Laurier University
You have been an inspiration to others throughout your long life. You are a blessing.
Doris Wison
I am a mad pride activist, having experienced the oppression of being labeled mentally ill. The things you have done help inspire me to know that change can happen. Your influence covers a broad scope and has helped to liberate us in spirit too which is important.
Lots of Love, Nancy Pontius
You have been an inspiration to me and the world, showing us the way to confront violence and hate with compassion, forgiveness and love. Thank you.
Gracia Valliabt
You are a wonderful human being. I was honored to meet you in person, listen to you speak and shake your hand when you spoke to the business community at the World Trade Center in NYC right after you became the President of South Africa. Thank you for your courage and wisdom.
Sincerely, Litsa Binder
There aren't words to say how grateful I am that you have lived on this Earth with us, and taught us so much. Thank you.
Ginger Child
Thanking and blessing you for your faithfulness to truth.
Judy Brutz
My late brother, David McMurran, was active in anti- apartheid work in Vancouver, and met you on one occasion. He shared with me his passion for the cause, and his admiration for your work. You continue to inspire so many of us with your vision, your deeply-rooted hope for a better future for humanity, and your refusal to be deterred by bitterness or self-pity. Bless you, Mr. Mandela, we Quakers hold you in the Light. Thank you for sharing the light that your life represents.
Erika McCroskey
When you were first released from prison I attended the rally in Pretoria where you spoke of a "tidal wave of democracy". A few days later I was arrested at a demonstration and was proud to be imprisoned with some of your colleagues in the John Voorster jail in Johannesburg. Crowded into a single cell with over fifty other men I sensed how unstoppable that tidal wave was when the men sang protest songs and danced the toi- toi all night long. I never felt the power of your dream of freedom more strongly than in that cell. Your spirit was with us. Thank you.
Ron Jenkins, professor, Wesleyan University
Dearest Madiba, you and the anti-Apartheid Movement have defined so much for me about how I think about supremacy and social justice, as it is true for the Civil Rights Movement. My commitment to social justice—both personally and professionally for as long as I can remember—can't be separated from you, nor the anti-Apartheid Movement, regardless of its "direct" connection. I am committed to passing along the many lessons you have taught me to my children. I will forever hold you in the light, never ever forgetting the ways you have moved us all forward, and have touched me in a most personal way. Thank you for the gift of you!
Renata Cobbs Fletcher
Nkosi Tata Madiba. Thank you for what you have done for South Africa, as well as for me as a South African. Peace, happiness and blessings to all you have touched.
Tatum Davis
Mr. Mandela, I am one of the many lives that you changed. In 1994, as a white, privileged teenager from North Carolina, I participated in an international youth delegation to Cape Town as part of Peace Trees South Africa. We planted trees and painted murals with residents of the Khayelitsha township and together commemorated the first anniversary of the country's free elections post-Apartheid. This was my first experience witnessing oppression up-close and personal with people I came to love. I heard stories of friends beaten by police, listened to white South Africans struggle with decisions they had made under Apartheid, laughed with a friend as he jokingly imagined himself as the future ANC president. I was most inspired by resistance and resilience of people my age, who fought battles I would never have to fight. Mr. Mandela, I celebrate you today for inspiring a whole world, for cultivating the seed rooted in me that is committed to working for justice and human rights for all, wherever I am.
Lori Fernald Khamala
God's blessings to you.
Joshua A. Humphries
One of the twists of fate that life seems to enjoy bringing us is that the Apartheid System which imprisoned you also sent us Tandi Gabashi. She led us as the Program Director of the Divestment Campaign of the American Friends Service Committee's Southern Region based here in Atlanta, Georgia. Under her leadership, the Coke Boycott was carried out that led that company to remove itself from doing business in South Africa. Thank you President Mandela for the leadership in showing the world how Restorative Justice can bring peace to a divided land.
Free Polazzo
I am proud to say I have never known apartheid because of the great work and effort you and others have done to put an end to this discrimination. I hope that I can honor your contributions to our global society in such a way that we continue to dismantle barriers and rebuild our communities with love. Thank you.
Liz Y
Thank you, Nelson Mandela. Your life serves as an inspiration.
Derod Gregory Broady
Bless you!
Fiona McMurran Gwynn Schroeder
I am writing from Cite Soleil, the biggest slum in Haiti. Saying thank you to you is like saying thank you to freedom. Because you are a great symbol of freedom. I am working to mobilize the people in my ghetto in a social movement so they can take responsibility for their lives and free themselves from violence and manipulation. I am taking part in the movement to find a path to freedom in my community. Today is already the first step, and I am happy. Again thank you my hero!
Louino, Robillard
Dear Nelson Mandela, Even when I was a child, you were an example of how people improve the world—thank you for your actions and for enriching my mind.
Dorothy T. Moore
Thank you for the inspiration!
Rebecca Coolidge
You are an amazing person and an inspiration to us all. I am hoping that the world can continue to work towards more freedom and justice for everyone, based on your example.
Thank you, Mary Willging
Bless you my fellow human. May we all rise to your standard.
Houston A. Seals
My President, My Hero, Mr Mandela, I was so blessed to have met you briefly in Oakland in 1990 when you stepped off the plane on your first world tour. Our family moved to the US in 1985 from Johannesburg. When I met you, I was in high school and my family was involved in the anti-apartheid movement in the SF Bay Area with the Farisani family. We were also in the choir at the coliseum where you reached over and shook my father Rev Sam Moonsamy's hand. At the airport, I brought you flowers and you kissed me on both my cheeks. I did not want to wash my face after that! I will always remember this day. I will never forget the sacrifice you made for us South Africans, and for inspiring so many in the world. I can never thank you enough for your faithfulness to us, and to God. We love you and will never ever forget. You are in our hearts and we will tell generations about you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. We love you!
Noelene Moonsamy