text:
Accessible Entrance
All main entrances are accessible. Main entrances are located at the Dining Pavillion, outside of American Girl, near M&M's world, near Footlocker and at Crayola Experience.
Accessible Parking
Handicapped accessible parking is available.
AED (Automatic External Defibrillator)
Located at the Guest Services Booth in front of the Florida Hotel and Conference Center
Travelex ATMs located throughout the mall.
Crayola Experience is a family attraction at The Florida Mall open 10am-8pm daily.
Baby Changing Station
For your convenience, baby changing stations are available inside both family restrooms located in the Dining Pavilion.
Bike Racks
Bike racks are conveniently located outside near Footlocker.
Bus Stop
Convenient LYNX bus stop located outside of jcpenney.
Children's Play Area

 We have one convenient play area outside in the Lifestyle Plaza near American Girl.

Coca-Cola Vending
Thirsty for a coke? Try a great Coca-Cola product from one of our many Coca-Cola vending machines located throughout the mall.
Complimentary Coat & Package Check
Complimentary coat & package check is available at Simon Guest Services® Simply bring your coat, bag or package to a guest service representative. They will gladly receive and store your item(s) while you shop or dine. This free service is available during mall hours.
Convention & Visitor Bureau
Welcoming our visitors from near and far, let us help you uncover all the great attractions and restaurants nearby. Just stop by the desk for more information. Directions, guides, coupons and local tips and transportation assistance are available just for the asking.
Currency Exchange Stations
Currency Exchange is available at the Guest Services Booth near Nestle Toll House and also near The Florida Hotel. Currency Exchange is provided by Currency Exchange International. They can be contacted at 407-251-7722 or 407-854-0860.
Directories (Mall Map)
These can be found at Simon Guest Services located near The Florida Hotel or Nestle Toll House. They may also be found at each directory unit located at the main entrances of The Florida Mall.
Drinking Fountain
Enjoy a sip of refreshing water from our convenient modern drinking fountain located in the Dining Pavilion.
Enhanced Cellular Connectivity
This property features enhanced cellular connectivity that improves the signal strength and brings the cell phone tower inside of the mall.
Visit one of our TV stations in select seating areas for your entertainment. Located across from The Florida Hotel & Conference Center and the Dining Pavilion.
EV (Electric Vehicle) Charging Stations
EV Charging Station is conveniently located in the parking lot near Footlocker.
Family Restrooms
Family restrooms are conveniently located in the Dining Pavilion.
Food Court
Visit our modern Dining Pavilion for a variety of favorite and unique food choices including sit down restaurants.
Foreign Currency Online Ordering with Travelex
Order your travel money online for convenient home delivery. Did you know that some Simon center locations also include retail Travelex stores for your convenience. Travelex is the world's largest retail foreign currency exchange specialist, with over 1000 stores around the world. We can provide you with over 75 foreign currencies as well as a Cash Passport that can be pre-loaded with either Pounds or Euros and includes chip & PIN technology, a must when traveling in Europe. To get started, visit Travelex now.
Handicapped Accessible Restrooms
All restrooms are handicap accessible for our customers. They can be found near The Florida Hotel and Conference Center, the Dining Pavilion, and H&M.
Located at The Florida Mall just minutes from the Orlando International Airport, The Florida Hotel and Conference Center provides the perfect home base for business or leisure. Close to the Orange County Convention Center and Walt Disney World Resort, we are at the center of everything there is to do in Central Florida. Stay with us and immerse yourself in luxury and comfort as our knowledgeable, helpful staff assists you in completing business or enjoying your vacation.
Lost and Found
Lost and Found services are available at Simon Guest Services located near The Florida Hotel or by calling security at (407) 247-5970. Individual stores may also maintain independent Lost and Found services.
Mall Walking
The Florida Mall opens at 8 a.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. on Sunday for mall walking. For more information on mall walking or other mall services please visit Simon Guest Services located near the Florida Hotel.
Management Office
Located in the management/restroom hallway next to bebe in the macy*s wing. The management office is the last door on the left before the double doors.
Mobile Device Charging Stations
Charge your phone while you shop! Conveniently located Device Charging Stations allow visitors to charge their phones, tablets, and other communication devices while enjoying the mall. The Charging Station features comfortable seating - and is the perfect spot to rest and recharge!
Multi-lingual staff members are available at Simon Guest Services located near the Florida Hotel. We also have a language line to assist all multi-lingual shoppers. Any shoppers who would like to take advantage of the language line may visit the guest services booth near the Florida Hotel.
The Florida Mall offers guests over 9,220 parking spaces and 3 convenient main mall entrances. Enter the mall at the Dining Pavilion, at the M&M's world Entrance by Macy's, or at the Promenade by H&M. Handicapped spaces are available. Any customers needing special assistance are encouraged to contact the mall management office at (407) 851-7234. The Florida Mall has a designated motorcoach drop-off location adjacent to Macy's and Charming Charlie near the M&M's World Entrance. Free and convenient parking is available for motorcoaches as well.
Pay Phone
Available throughout the mall for customer convenience.
Public Transportation
Taxi cabs provided by Mears Transportation are available at the Dining Pavilion Mall Entrance. For additional information, please call Mears at (407) 699-9999
The Florida Mall offers convenient restroom locations. Find these in the Dining Pavilion, near The Florida Hotel & Conference Center, and across from H& M.
Security & Police Substation

The goal of The Florida Mall Security Department is to maintain a safe and pleasant shopping environment for our visitors and tenants. Some of the ways security is working for you:
 Year-round vehicle patrols in the parking lot.
 Year-round foot patrols throughout the mall.
 Vehicle jump starts.
 Assist in locating lost vehicles.
 Assist in locating lost loved ones.
 Escort visitors and tenants anytime upon request.
 Plus, all Florida Mall Security Officers are trained in CPR and basic first aid.
 For all lost and found inquiries please contact security at (407) 247-5970

Shopper Assistance

The goal of The Florida Mall Security Department is to maintain a safe and pleasant shopping environment for our visitors and tenants. Some of the ways security is working for you:
 Year-round vehicle patrols in the parking lot.
 Year-round foot patrols throughout the mall.
 Vehicle jump starts.
 Assist in locating lost vehicles.
 Assist in locating lost loved ones.
 Escort visitors and tenants anytime upon request.
 Plus, all Florida Mall Security Officers are trained in CPR and basic first aid.
 For all lost and found inquiries please contact security at (407) 247-5970

Simon Giftcard®
Give the gift of shopping with a Simon Giftcard, available at Simon Guest Services® in denominations ranging from $20 to $500. There are no fees after purchase and the funds do not expire. The Simon Giftcard can be used anywhere Visa or American Express are accepted. See cardholder agreement for complete terms and conditions.
Simon Guest Services
Customers can visit Guest Services in front of The Florida Hotel or near Build-a- Bear to purchase American Express and Visa Simon Giftcards, redeem vouchers, purchase Style Passes, exchange international currency, rent wheelchairs and obtain general directions/mall information during their visit. More more information call the shopping line at (407) 851-6255
Simon Mobile App
The Simon Mobile App can help you find your favorite stores, dining and entertainment options at the Simon shopping center nearest you. You'll also be able to check out the latest deals, news and events available at your favorite center right from your smartphone or tablet. And there are many more features designed to enhance your shopping experience including mall maps, gift card balance check and more. Download the free app from your favorite app store.
Simon Youth Academy
Simon Youth Academies are non-traditional high schools that are located primarily in Simon Malls ® . The Academies give at-risk students the same education that they would receive in a traditional classroom but in a flexible environment. Compassionate academy teachers are able to focus on one-on-one learning thanks to an emphasis on small class sizes.

 Academy graduates receive accredited high school diplomas from their public school districts, because each academy represents a partnership with one or more public school districts and is an extension of the local systems
Soft Seating
Carpeted soft seating areas are located throughout the mall for customer comfort and convenience.

All Simon Malls, Mills and Premium Outlets in the U.S. have achieved the national 'StormReady' designation by the National Weather Service. This designation recognizes Simon centers' preparedness to handle all types of severe and potentially life-threatening weather situations.
Strollers are available for a nominal fee at convenient cart locations in front of Sears and near Dick's Sporting Goods.
SYF Coin Wishing Wells

The SYF Coin Wishing Wells bring in funds for Simon Youth Foundation (SYF) programs. The SYF helps provide economical, educational and career development opportunities to local youth. All of the proceeds collected from the SYF Coin Wishing Well go to the Simon Youth Foundation.

Valet Parking
Valet parking is available for $7 and is available year round. Valet is located at The Plaza entrance by American Girl and The Dining Pavilion
Wheelchairs (Complimentary)
Wheelchairs are available at Simon Guest Services on a first-come, first-serve basis. Wheelchairs are complimentary for use, however donations are greatly appreciated. All proceeds collected from the service will benefit the mall's Simon Youth Foundation. A valid form of picture identification is required to borrow a wheelchair.
Then Get Our Can't Miss Style Reports, Retailer
Offers and Event News Before Everyone Else.


text:
Don't have an account? Sign Up
Back to Top
My Cart (0)
You have no items in your shopping cart.
Item #2014264
Availability: In stock
About Us
Customer Service
My Account
Desktop Publishing Supplies
34 Raccio Park Rd.Unit 8Hamden, CT 06514
Open Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm EST
Let's be friends

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Try your hand at multiple-exposure approaches, intentional camera movement, photographing textures, blending, and more.
All Courses
- Masking + Compositing
- Photography (75)
- Design (35)
- video2brain (15)
- Design Techniques (13)
- Digital Painting (13)
- Projects (9)
- Raw Processing (8)
- Portraits (6)
- Retouching (5)
- Black and White (3)
- Compositing (2)
- Illustration (2)
- iPhone, iPod, iPad (2)
- Night + Low Light (2)
- Video (2)
- Web Graphics (2)
- Cameras + Gear (1)
- Color Correction (1)
- Documentaries (1)
- Interior Design (1)
- Lighting (1)
- Photo Management (1)
- Printing Photos (1)
- Restoration (1)
- Sharpening (1)
- Shooting Video (1)
- Start to Finish (1)
- Web (1)
- Adobe (76)
- Photoshop (73)
- Lightroom (3)
- After Effects (2)
- Affinity Photo (1)
- BrianFeverMedia (1)
- Camera Raw (1)
- Cinemagraph Pro (1)
- Filterstorm (1)
- Flixel Photos (1)
- Image Blender (1)
- Johan Andersson (1)
- Juxtaposer (1)
- Photoshop Elements (1)
- Photoshop Fix (1)
- Photoshop Mix (1)
- Photoshop Touch (1)
- Premiere Pro (1)
- Serif Ltd. (1)
- Tai Shimizu (1)
Skill level
- Beginner (10)
- Intermediate (61)
- Advanced (13)
- Appropriate for all (1007)
More options
Learn Photoshop. Julieanne Kost explores Photoshop CC 2017 from a design perspective, with an emphasis on layout, graphics, typography, shapes, and color.
Learn how to use Photoshop CC 2017. Master the Photoshop features and techniques that are most useful for photography, from tonal adjustments to retouching.
Master the essentials of Photoshop CC and Camera Raw to make your images look their best. These tutorials cover photo editing, retouching, compositing, and much more.
Sharpen your Photoshop compositing skills with this set of tutorials, each of which you can complete in about 10 minutes.
Learn how to use Adobe's mobile applications along with Photoshop and Lightroom CC to perform a variety of creative photography and design tasks on the go.
Learn the Photoshop masking and compositing techniques involved in creating a collage of multiple portraits.
Learn to use Photoshop to create cinemagraphs—still images that have moving components.
From photo shoot to Photoshop, see how to create a composite that shows an athlete in action.
Learn how to enhance and composite photos using Affinity Photo, the photo editing software for the Mac.
Learn how to use Photoshop compositing to add someone to a group photo.
Learn the techniques for compositing product photography in Photoshop, including swapping backgrounds and label art.
Master Photoshop's selection tools to gain precise results when compositing or performing advanced image alterations.
Learn the best techniques for a replacing the sky in a photo and obtaining realistic results with Photoshop.
Learn the best techniques for recomposing a photo—moving the subjects while reconstructing the background and lighting for accuracy.
Learn the creative and technical considerations involved in photographing with compositing in mind.
Follow along with fine art photographer Seán Duggan as he shoots in the Icelandic wilderness and then composites his photographs into new imaginary landscapes with Photoshop.
Learn how to maximize what you can do with Photoshop adjustment layers and blend modes, by finding new uses for these great features.
Bert Monroy transforms a set of ordinary photographs into an extraordinary work of art featuring a labyrinth-like maze.
Learn how to create a spooky haunted house in Photoshop CC.
Learn how to use Photoshop to build 3D planets and spaceships and composite them into a dreamscape featuring a mysterious off-world mining colony.
Learn to use Photoshop to composite and blend images from many different sources into a dreamscape featuring a magic orb and an island guardian.
Turn boring beach photos into a dreamscape featuring a sacred cavern, using the transformative tools in Photoshop and these techniques from Photoshop master Bert Monroy.
Learn how to use Photoshop, After Effects, and two dedicated tools—Flixel and Cliplets—to explore the creative possibilities of cinemagraphs: static photos that contain areas of motion.
Learn how to enhance and combine multiple group photos to get the best expression out of each member of the group, using Lightroom and Photoshop.
Learn how to create unique, beautiful vintage and distressed photo effects using Photoshop.
Create beautiful photo composites with popular mobile photography apps such as Juxtaposer, Image Blender, and Photoshop Touch.
Learn how to create new visual narratives with the power of photo compositing.
Learn how to illustrate a mystical passage inspired by myth, with Photoshop and a collection of ordinary images.
Bring a science-fiction scene inspired by Star Wars to life with a few simple images and the tools in Photoshop.
Join Bert Monroy as he creates a brand-new work of art—a castle on a desert cliff—using just a few ordinary images and the tools in Photoshop.
Create a portal to a realm of the imagination with a 3D arch, a collection of ordinary images, and the tools in Photoshop.
Learn how to create a cozy mushroom house that looks like it's straight out of a fairy tale, with Photoshop and a collection of ordinary images.
Learn how to shoot a lunar eclipse and create a composite photo showing all of its phases in a single image, using Lightroom and Photoshop.
Learn how to use Photoshop and Camera Raw to make your night and low-light photos (including star photography) look their best.
Learn how to evaluate and adjust color landscapes and transform them into majestic black-and-white landscapes with Photoshop.
Learn how to work with perspective in Photoshop: adjust it, repair it, and create better composites with your new skills.
Discover how to construct your vision by compositing multiple images into a single, unified photograph using Photoshop.
Learn how to remove a subject from a studio environment and place her against a different background.
Learn how to replace the sky in your photography in just a few short steps in Adobe Photoshop.
Swap out the background of a portrait with something new, and add visual interest and drama to your photographs.
Learn how to create stunning visual effects and motion graphics for your video projects using a tool you already know and love: Adobe Photoshop.
Take charge of Photoshop and make better, more targeted image adjustments with selections—including hard-to-select objects like hair, fuzzy edges, and color ranges.
Reimagine your living room. Interior designers and homeowners alike can take advantage of Photoshop's tools to reconfigure a room.
Learn how to utilize actions and automation in Adobe Photoshop and Bridge to speed up your workflow.
Follow photographer Brooke Shaden as she creates one of her painterly, otherworldly images and explains her process, from initial sketch to final Photoshop composite.
Learn how to use selections and layer masks in this Photoshop tutorial to create composite images and apply targeted adjustments.
The third installment of Bert Monroy's Dreamscapes series shows how to transport your photos into otherworldly territory, like an underwater coral reef, an enchanted forest, or even a menacing factory, all with Photoshop.
Join Bert Monroy in the second installment of his Dreamscapes series, and learn how to transform your photos into incredible scenes filled with imaginary creatures, ancient ruins, and more.
Look over Tim Grey's shoulder as he works on one of his favorite images and gain insight into why he does what he does.
"I was pulling my hair out worrying about how I was going to afford classes. Then I found lynda.com. Thank you, thank you, thank you." —Lynn H.
more from our members »


text:
Toggle navigation
Place an ad
Sign in with Classifieds account
Sign in with Classifieds account
Place an ad
Search All Classifieds
Auctions / Sales
Business Services
Financial & Loans
Garage Sales
Pets & Animals
Real Estate
Funeral Directory
Find a job
Post a job
Find a car
Post a car
Find a home
Post a home
Find a rental
Post a rental
Get stuff done
Make money now
Featured Ads
Only 30 min. from Raleigh/Cary area. 24 Lots in West Wilson in fully developed subdivision. City utilities, water & sewer. Within 5 min. to Hwy 95 & Hwy 264. Buy all - better price! Call Glendy Gregory 252-205-6793
Love to fish?
Enjoy county living, 11+ acres in so. Franklin Co, easy access to Ral. & Rocky Mt, road front building site with view of beautiful fish pond, DP Realty (919) 404-1405
GRE PREP - FEB04 to MAR16
GRE PREP courses meet on seven Saturdays beginning February 04, 2017. Since 1999, PrepSuccess, LLC has offered GRE PREP courses at the lowest rates in the country. Courses are 42 hours in length and are taught locally and online in partnership with academic departments of UNC-Chapel Hill, Duke...
Newly Renovated home in family neighborhood
Newly renovated 1-story in quiet family neighborhood on heavily wooded lot, 3 bdrm, 2 bath, wood fireplace, deck, 2 car garage. New carpet, new tile, freshly painted. Time-Warner internet access. Orange Co schools. $1200/mo + utilities. 5 miles north of H'sboro.
Rolex,Diamonds,Jewelry,Gold & Silver(We are the Strongest...
We have over 30 years in the jewelry and watch business and promise to be the most competitive payers in the triangle. We are GIA Accredited and #1 with the Jewelers Board of Trade. We are buying all of the following:
Labrador Retriever AKC
Working Dogs- Sire is beautiful Charcoal male OFA Good Hips and OFA Elbows- Sire is EIC PRAD PRA neg. Parents are Great Labs with very nice temperaments.. we have 3 Chocolate males 1 Black Males and 1 Black Female These puppies will make heads turn.*** CRATE TRAINING STARTED *** Big Block heads -...
Atlantic Beach Sound View Home
Furnished home on corner lot. Two story Intercoastal Waterway view 3 full BA, 3 BR, 2 room office/or 2 add. BR, rap around upper and lower deck, spiral staircase to widow walk, large open great room and kitchen, hurricane roof and shutters, marble and granite BAs and kitchen, inside and outside...
English and olde English bulldog puppies
8 English bulldog puppies that are CKC registered and 3 rare color OLDE English bulldog puppies. IOEBA registered. All are $1600 except lilac tri oldie. Males and females available in both litters. Now taking deposits to hold until 8 weeks old.
AKC Labrador Retriever Puppies
These puppies have it all--championship bloodlines, beauty, intelligence, and athleticism!! Born December 17th, they will be ready for their forever homes in mid-February. Included will be current vaccinations and worming, AKC limited registration papers and microchip. Parents with hip, elbow...
View all featured ads
Recent Ads
Black plastic greenhouse float trays, 288 cells. Only used 1 year. Large volume.
27615: 1204 Loblolly Ct. Sat, 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
Indoor ART and HOME DEC sale 9-2 Saturday, Jan 21.
Almost everything is for sale, and you'll find some great bargains.
- framed prints,
- nautical decor,
- nice costume jewelry,
- scarves,
- lamps,
- rugs,
- kitchen items, ...
Rolex,Diamonds,Jewelry,Gold & Silver(We are the Strongest...
We have over 30 years in the jewelry and watch business and promise to be the most competitive payers in the triangle. We are GIA Accredited and #1 with the Jewelers Board of Trade. We are buying all of the following:
Help center
Give us a call
Request Help
Log in with your
Email Address:
Forgot your password?


text: Hottest picks of the most popular porno video online here at huge Porno Tube will blow your mind! No low quality VHS crap from 90s but only fresh, high resolution porno video that can be sorted by popularity or duration. So add this sexy porno tube to your favorites and come back daily for more fresh porn video online!


text:
FREEWARE (v7.9)
Welcome to the Toad for MySQL community. We invite your feedback on how to continue to improve.
Toad for MySQL is a freeware development tool that enables you to rapidly create and execute queries, automate database object management, and develop SQL code more efficiently. Learn more about Toad for MySQL.


text:
""Corporate executives should be your core business . . . You need [account executives who are] comfortable with the kind of boardroom leaders that see Learjet as a tool, not a frivolous extravagance for movie stars and their pets." "
Exit Strategy
Trip-protection insurance is popular with airline passengers who worry that a change in plans could mean forfeiture of airfare, prepaid accommodations and other upfront travel costs. Many air charter customers could benefit even more from such coverage, due to the amount of money at stake. Charter operators typically assess cancellation penalties that escalate as departure times approach. Also, while "empty legs" are often offered at a steep discount, they are usually sold with a 100 percent cancellation penalty.
Unfortunately, few companies provide insurance for air charter, and those that do generally cover cancellation due to medical issues and natural disasters–not the main reason businesspeople typically cancel.
"Many individuals who travel by air charter are businesspeople," noted Christine Buggy, director of marketing for Travelex Insurance Services in Omaha, Neb. "They may be concerned with having to cancel their trip due to business reasons."
A division of London's Travelex Group, Travelex offers two trip-protection plans that can provide some coverage in such cases. Travel Max–which will reimburse you 100 percent for up to $50,000 in lost prepayments for flights and other upfront expenses–covers cancellations for business reasons along with those due to medical emergencies, natural disasters and other risks that trip-protection policies routinely address. (You can increase coverage to $100,000 by special arrangement.) With Travel Select, which provides 100 percent reimbursement up to $25,000, you can add a "cancel for business reason" clause for $99 at the time of purchase. The insurance itself typically costs 7 to 10 percent of the amount being covered, with the price varying according to the age of the traveler(s).
The wrinkle in such coverage is that it excludes what likely are the most common reasons for zapping a business trip, such as a deal falling through or a schedule change. Instead, this insurance covers costs of charter flights cancelled because you or a traveling companion named in the policy have had your travel time rescinded because of, say, a boss's orders or business emergency. Collecting on the insurance requires a written, notarized statement by a company officer and/or the human-resources department attesting that previously approved travel time has been revoked for a covered reason. If you're self-employed, you must provide work schedule documentation that clearly identifies the cause of the cancellation.
Don't count on maneuvering around these limitations, Buggy said. Travelex carefully investigates claims, and "any attempt to submit false documentation for cancellation would be considered insurance fraud, which is a criminal offense."
The Travel Max plan does also offer a cancel-for-any-reason clause that pays up to 75 percent of nonrefundable travel expenses and can be exercised up to 48 hours before the scheduled departure. This coverage costs an additional 50 percent above the base cost of the insurance for the trip.
While the Travelex plans seem like a step in the right direction, the situations excluded from coverage leave a huge gap in air charter trip protection. Also, these plans include insurance for risks that typically don't apply to air charter: lost luggage, missed connections and admission to airline club facilities in the event of delays. This means you're paying for some coverage you don't need.
Conversely, all-encompassing air charter trip insurance could stimulate more air charter business. Say an empty leg becomes available for a trip you've tentatively planned. You might be inclined to book it and lock in the low rate if you had cancellation protection, whereas you'd be more hesitant to take advantage of the fare if you stood to lose 100 percent of its cost if you had to cancel.
A new company, Jetsurance, has created trip-protection coverage designed exclusively for air charter travel, stripping out non-applicable risks and expanding covered contingencies. The Jackson Hole, Wyo. company, which opened for business in mid 2012, offers an "anytime for any reason" cancellation policy that provides an 80 percent refund for a premium of 10.5 to 12.5 percent of the charter cost. "If you wake up and just don't feel like flying–for those people it's great," said Jetsurance founder and CEO Jeff Rambo.
Jetsurance also offers a Private Jet Travel Protection Plan. For a flat 7.7 percent of the total insured expense, the plan provides 100 percent reimbursement for cancellations due to more than a score of the most common reasons for scrubbing a charter flight, including sickness, injury or death; inclement weather; a labor strike that disrupts flight services; natural disaster affecting one's home; employment termination; or a subpoena requiring a court appearance. A $50,000 medical-expense benefit and $500,000 evacuation coverage are included. Rambo said the National Union Fire Insurance Company, BCS Insurance Company and Jefferson Insurance Company underwrite the policies, which can cover nonrefundable expenses including lodging and prepaid activities such as tours and heli-skiing. You can purchase policies online (jetsurance.com) or on the phone after booking a flight. Rambo is also targeting charter operators and brokers, hoping they'll make cancellation protection part of their standard offerings.
Jetsurance has yet to establish a track record, but with the growing popularity of trip-protection insurance, perhaps air charter customers finally will be able to purchase coverage that's well suited to their travel mode.
Add your comment:
By submitting a comment, you are allowing AIN Publications to edit and use your comment in all media.


text:
Chihuahua Smooth Coat
Basic Chihuahua Smooth Coat Information
- Lifespan: 14 - 18 years
- Height: 6 - 9 inches
- Weight: 6 - 6 pounds
Medical Conditions Seen in Chihuahua Smooth Coats
- Chronic Valvular Disease
- Polydontia
- Patellar Luxation
- Tracheal Collapse
- Corneal Dystrophy
- Cryptorchidism
- Glaucoma
- Hydrocephalus
- Lens Luxation
- Patent Ductus Arteriosus
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Pulmonic Stenosis
Chihuahua Smooth Coat Traits
- Jogging Partner
- Lap Dog
- Good with Children
- Warm Weather
- Cold Weather
- Grooming Requirements
- Shedding
- Barking
- Ease of Training
Chihuahua Smooth Coat History
- The early origin of the Chihuahua is controversial. One theory holds that it originated in Central and South America, descending from a small dog, the Techichi, which was used as a religious sacrifice and even food. The other theory holds it descends from small Chinese dogs brought to Central America by Spanish traders.
- The recorded history of the Chihuahua begins in 1850, when three tiny dogs were brought to the United States from Chihuahua, Mexico.
- More dogs followed. They were called by many names, including Arizona Dogs, Texas Dogs, Mexican Dogs, or even Chihuahua terriers, but the simple name Chihuahua stuck.
- In the late 1800s, a troupe of trick Chihuahuas made the rounds with performer Rosalina Casselli.
- The AKC recognized the breed in 1904. The first registered Chihuahua was a smooth coat named Midget.
- The dogs aroused only moderate interest until Xavier Cugat, the rumba king, made his smooth Chihuahuas his constant companions in public appearances, movies, and later, his weekly television show.
- By 1964, the Chihuahua had become the third most popular breed in America.
- The Chihuahua has consistently remained one of America's top breeds since then, currently ranking 11th in AKC popularity.
Chihuahua Smooth Coat Behavior Concerns
- Makes both a devoted lap dog and saucy playmate.
- Fairly playful with family children, but children must be supervised because they could easily hurt such a small dog.
- Tends to be a one-person, or at most, one-family dog.
- Reserved toward strangers. Early socialization so that it willingly accepts new people is important.
- Good with other dogs and pets, but can foolishly challenge larger strange dogs.
- Some can be overly bold, while others can be overly timid.
- Learns quickly, but tends to have a stubborn streak.
- Does not do well with force-based training methods, but is very good with reward-based training involving food.
- Housetraining can be more challenging than with many other breeds.
Chihuahua Smooth Coat Suggested Exercises
- Makes a lively and alert housedog.
- Although many of its physical exercise needs can be met with indoor games, it still needs the mental stimulation of walking and sniffing outdoors.
- A walk around the block once or twice daily will meet its outdoor needs, not counting bathroom breaks. Many Chihuahuas can be trained to use indoor potty systems.
- Dog parks are not generally a good idea unless only small dogs are allowed together.
- Games and tricks provide needed mental exercise.
- Excursions in a doggy purse can provide supplemental entertainment.
- Chihuahuas can swim, but most aren't crazy about it. They can, however, use a kiddy pool as a swimming pool.
- Chihuahuas hate the cold. Because of their small size, they lose body heat rapidly.
Chihuahua Smooth Coat Grooming
- Coat is short, soft, and glossy.
- Brushing once a week will remove dead hair.
- Shedding is average.
- The breed is prone to periodontal problems, which can be prevented in large part by regular tooth brushing.
Suggested Chihuahua Smooth Coat Nutritional Needs
- Chihuahuas have a tendency to become obese.
- Adult dogs should be fed a balanced diet, with restricted calories if the dog starts to gain too much weight.
- Remember, it does not take much food to feed such a small dog, and small snacks can easily add too many calories.
- Chihuahua puppies should be fed often to prevent hypoglycemia, a serious condition to which very small puppies are prone. Frequent small meals of high protein, fat, and complex carbohydrates may help guard against this condition.
Did you know?
- Grapes and raisins are harmful to dogs.
- Some dog parasites are transferable to humans.
- Many common pet ailments may be detected early and prevented by visiting your veterinarian twice yearly - saving both time, money, and most importantly, ensuring the best quality of life for your dog.
Come visit us, we would love to see you!
We are here to help! Book an appointment today to continue your pet on a path to great health and wellness
Ask the Vet
Have unanswered pet health questions? Dr.Donna Spector, with 10+ years of hands-on Internal Medicine experience, is here with your answers every Friday.


text:
Start your path to a good-paying job and a rewarding career at CVTC. With over 80 programs, CVTC provides you with hands-on learning and the training and skills you need to move quickly into a fulfilling career, or serve as a platform to launch into unlimited opportunities.
Clear Filter
*Indicates a program with an Advanced Placement entry option.
Not sure what program you'd like to take? Take our career assessment to discover which program is perfect for you!
CVTC's certificates are a great way to gain current skills quickly to meet your goals and move ahead! Our certificates allow you to master a specific and valuable set of skills that make you attractive to employers, while laying a foundation for your future. If you are looking to change careers, advance your career, or give yourself an edge in the workforce, a certificate is the right choice.
Apply Online or call 1-800-547-CVTC with questions.
Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Technology
Business, Finance & Marketing
Health Sciences
Information Technology
Law, Public Safety and Security
Apprenticeships give you access to careers that are typically unavailable to those without experience, and build skills that are transferable from one employer to another and from one area of the country to another. They combine structured on-the-job training with related classroom instruction.
As a community partner in the Chippewa Valley, CVTC provides quality adult education services free of charge. Whether you are looking to earn your GED/HSED, prepare for college, or increase your employability, we can help. Our certified instructors will work with you to develop an individualized Personal Education Plan designed to meet your personal, career, and academic goals.
Let us help you develop or refresh your basic skills in reading, writing, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, problem solving, and math.
Develop or improve your computer skills by working independently at your own pace. We offer individual instruction in basic computer literacy in several areas.
Our English Language Learning (ELL) classes help adults learn English whose native language is not English. Adults learn how to read, write, and communicate in English. Instruction includes an array of curriculum utilizing audio, computer, workbook and conversational materials, and some off-campus field trips. Learn more about improving your English skills.
CVTC requires students to take entrance assessments like Accuplacer or ACT to be admitted into most programs. Our Adult Education Services department can help you prepare to take these exams and help you brush up on skills such as:
We have walk-in Learning Centers at each of our campuses, so you can work at a location most convenient for you.
Eau Claire
620 W. Clairemont Avenue, BEC Room 212
Chippewa Falls
770 Scheidler Road, Room 105
403 Technology Drive E., Room 103
11 Tiff Avenue, Room 102
River Falls
500 S. Wasson Lane, Room 105
CVTC offers two options for high school completion: the GED certificate and the HSED. The GED is accepted by most employers, technical colleges, and community colleges. Some employers, universities, and branches of the military require an HSED or high school diploma. You can decide which option is best for you. Learn more about GED/HSED.
The High School Contract program is an agreement between CVTC and your high school that allows you to earn your HSED at CVTC in lieu of attending high school. If you are a current high school student that is at least 17 years of age and are at-risk of not graduating from high school, the CVTC High School Contract program is the right choice for you. Learn more about the High School Contract program.
Back to Top


text:
Comments to Conserve & Protect blog site are encouraged.
The site is monitored and we ask that all comments:
**This is a monitored site and all comments are subject to public records law. Comments made after the close of business, on weekends and holidays will be posted the following work day.


text:
The aftermarket automotive accessories can provide your vehicle with a unique look. The world of accessories is constantly developing that is caused by the great popularity of the automotive parts. The range of the most popular 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee accessories includes the chrome tailgate handles and handle covers. Produced from the automotive-grade ABS plastic, they are durable enough to withstand severe weather and driving conditions. The tailgate handles come with a triple-chrome plating, which will never yellow or rust. The chrome finish reflects like a mirror adding a stylish look to your vehicle.
The application-specific design ensures perfect fit that conforms to the contours of your vehicle's tailgate handle. There is no need in drilling or removal of the factory-made handle. The installation of the 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee tailgate handle cover takes just minutes. It is fit over the factory handles by means of pre-applied 3M adhesive tape. The tailgate handle is custom-designed to fit perfectly a particular automobile. The installation of the tailgate handle takes within an hour without exterior modifications. The chrome accessories are easy to maintain. From time to time they should be washed with soap and wiped with non-abrasive towel.


text:
New Markdowns
view full screen
Soft Jersey
Infinite Blue Long Sleeve Cover Up
Style: 4570062236
Out of Stock
Ridiculously soft drape-front coverup has a fluid swing, cutaway hem and long sleeves. Throw it over the Soft Jersey Tank and Soft Jersey Pant.
- From our luxuriously soft and comfortable Live. Lounge. Wear.™ collection.
- Lightweight, incredibly soft and silky jersey.
- Long sleeves.
- Length: 31" from shoulder. Hem slightly shorter in front.
- 95% Rayon, 5% Spandex. Machine wash, cold; tumble dry low. Imported.
Read more… Read less…


text:
Modify a Plan
At Ahmann Design we realize that it's hard to find the house plan that meets 100% of your needs - that's why we offer house plan modification services for all of our plans. For only $50, we will supply you with a detailed estimate so you can make an educated decision when buying your home. And, if you decide to purchase the plan and revisions, the $50 fee will be credited towards your revision order. Please note that a reproducible or CAD file must be purchased before modifications can be made to any house plan. Simply follow these steps, and you'll be on your way to creating your dream home.
- Register with Ahmann Design through the link provided at the top of every page.
- Once you find a plan you would like a modification quote for, simply type that plan number in the search box to locate the plan.
- Select the "modify this plan" hot link at the top of the red bar located directly above the rendering of the front of the home.
- Complete the transaction to purchase the modification services.
- Download our Modification Request Form, fill it out, and fax it to us at 319-395-7933. Please be as specific as possible when listing details.
- Our designers will review your requests and determine whether or not the changes are feasible from a structural standpoint.
- After we have received your FAX, we will contact the original designer for a quote to make the changes you have requested and e-mail you an estimate within 3-5 business days.
- After you review and approve the estimate, please return a signed copy with a deposit of 75 % of the total revision amount. The remaining 25% will be due prior to shipping of revised house plans.
- Finally, contact one of our Client Services Representatives at 800-725-6852 to purchase the reproducible or CAD file. We will then put you in direct contact with the original designer to complete your revisions, or you can take the reproducible or CAD file to a local drafter and have the plans modified on your own.*
*Please note that you are purchasing a SINGLE BUILD license and any modified plans can only be used to build one dwelling.
**You may be required to have a local architect or designer review the plans in order to have them comply with your state or county building codes.
***. The modification fee of $50 can only be applied one time to the plan purchase for which the changes were request. Additional changes not listed on the original request form will require another $50 fee that cannot be applied to a plan purchase.


text:
Saturday, November 9th will be your chance to become a part of the action during Iowa State's Homecoming matchup against the TCU Horned Frogs. The winning bidder and a guest will receive sideline passes, game day programs and the opportunity to retrieve the tee each time the Cyclones kickoff to the Horned Frogs. Kickoff time has not been announced at the time of this posting. Due to NCAA rules, the winning bidder and guest must be at least 18 years of age and not enrolled in high school. Minimum bids and bid increments do apply.
Auction Disclaimer:
Due to NCAA Rules, any student in grades 9-12 or Junior College, are not eligible to participate as a bidder, an auction item winner or guest of the winner.
Winning bidder and guest must be an Iowa State fan and supporter and must dress and act accordingly and in a professional and courteous manner while participating in this Experience. At the sole discretion of the Athletic Department, if at any time during the Experience the winning bidder or guest is not acting in a professional and courteous manner, Iowa State Athletics may end the Experience and no refund or additional services will be offered to the winning bidder whether or not the entire experience was completed. Winning bidder and guest may be required to sign and indemnification waiver prior to participating.
Iowa State University reserves the right to cancel any auction bid which is deemed to interfere with the auction itself or the event associated with the item. Should the winning bidder provide false information or act inappropriately, the bidder will forfeit his or her right to participate and his or her bid amount will not be reimbursed. The intent of this auction is to provide unique opportunities and keepsakes for alumni, fans, and supporters of Iowa State University.
By submitting my bid, I confirm my knowledge of the NCAA rules and regulations pertaining to this request and agree to abide by all said guidelines. I understand that ISU reserves the right to request the return of the memorabilia or autographed item when guidelines are not followed.


text:
Rat_Tail wrote:FUDU wrote:Well where we differ is in how this country approaches low skilled or unskilled workers. We don't need unskilled immigration right now, we need more of the best & brightest, regardless of where from.
Not true, we do need migrant workers and they need us. What they make here is way more than what they would make in Mexico. The one thing we could try to regulate would be putting a limit on remittances.
I think maybe you should try to explain exactly how "we need migrant workers", and also why we should give a shit that "they need us". Shouldn't the bottom line be we should be doing what is best for our country? If that coincides with what is good for Mexicans, then great. If not, tough shit.


text:
At Walmart, we've got a wide selection of needlecraft products available for less.
If you need items to finish that sweater for a loved one or to start on a needlecraft project you've been thinking about, we've got you covered. Come to Walmart and shop for our stock of needlecraft supplies to meet your needs. We carry buttons, lace, ribbons, needles, scissors, fasteners, zippers and cutting tools. Pick up one of our needlepoint kits to get a number of things at once, or bring home a Teflon pressing sheet to protect your iron and ironing board.
Whether you're looking to add the finishing touches to a new needlework top or wanting to start a new project altogether, we've got plenty of products from many top brands, such as ArtBin, Butterick, Disney, Martha Stewart, Singer and Tulip. And be sure to browse our additional selection of crafts and party and occasions supplies to find even more items at Everyday Low Prices.
It's easy to shop for needlecraft products at Walmart.com. You can search by brand, price range, customer rating, color, category, keyword and more. Be sure to look for free in-store pickup for many products when you shop at Walmart.com.
If you're looking for needlecraft items for your next project, look no further than Walmart. We've got them for less so you can save money and live better.


text:
The Digital Skeptic: Expert Networks Crush Lucrative Banking M&A
"I signed up last month," he told me over a plate of ham dinner last month. He was referring to a New York company called the Gerson Lehrman Group , which connects experts with those willing to pay real money for the advice of real experts.
De Santis certainly qualifies. The former managing director at Deutsche Bank Securities now independently advises investors on horribly arcane, but lucrative, areas of fixed-income securities.
A few weeks after signing up, he said, he was connected to a major investor looking to do a billion-dollar acquisition of something called a life-settlements originator, which manages bunches of life insurance policies.
"I got on the phone with them. I told them all I knew," he said. "I made $600 an hour. They were thrilled."
De Santis and I had spoken about the Gerson Lehrman Group before. The company is smack in the middle of a high-profile, $275 million SEC insider trading investigation concerning how trader Mathew Martoma found researcher Dr. Sid Gilman using the Gerson Lehrman network -- and may have traded on material inside information delivered by Gilman.
I half-jokingly asked De Santis if he had divulged any insider information. He smiled. Paused. And then said this:
"I told them nothing that an average investment banker wouldn't know," he said. De Santis then broke out his larger point: Here was a billion-dollar deal that didn't need a traditional, take-a-fat-percentage Wall Street mergers-and-acquisitions bank to get done.
"Instead," De Santis said, "they got a highly trained expert that provided the same service who was merely paid by the hour."
Buckle up, bank investors. Just as Citigroup (C) , J.P. Morgan Chase (JPM) , Bank of America (BAC) , Bank of New York Mellon (BK) and Goldman Sachs (GS) seek to build on their sterling 2012 performance, investors are facing the next probable victim in the collapsing digital economy: the lucrative merger-and-acquisitions business most big banks rely on for profitability.
"It's what you talk about all the time. The Web comes in and forces efficiencies into a market, which collapses that market," he said. "And now it's coming to mergers and acquisitions."
Expert Network as iBank
Let's be clear: Nobody anywhere near this debate -- that means me, De Santis or anybody I interviewed -- is minimizing the risk folks such as Gilman and Martoma may or may not try to cheat using expert networks.
But the sheer scale of these systems makes Wall Street look itty bitty by comparison.
Gerson Lehrman, who confirmed that De Santis had used its networks, confirmed it had more than 350,000 registered individuals on its micro-consulting platform, which is used by more than 1,000 institutional clients and growing.


text:
Prices and availability are subject to change from the time and date that you print this page.
1/24/2017 8:53:46 PM. For Customer Service, please call 800.933.9904
If you ever find yourself in a tough decorating position, rest easy knowing this lamp base will easily get you out of it. The unique, geometric base comes in three different colors, so matching it to your home's décor will never be difficult.
Gold Rock Table Lamp Base 8"Wx8"Dx11.5"H
Details, details
- Nod exclusive
- Lamp features a unique geometric shape
- Fits all of our individually sold table shades (sold separately)
- Base does not have or accommodate a harp
- 13W CFL bulb included with base; also accommodates a 60W max. incandescent bulb (not included) learn more
- 72" clear cord; UL listed learn more
Show 'em what you're made of
- 100% polyresin base
At The Land of Nod, nothing is more important to us than providing safe, high-quality products to you and your family. We believe that kids' products should be able to handle everything kids throw their way (literally and figuratively). That's why all of our products have an 18-year quality guarantee. And, hopefully, your kids will no longer be sleeping in bunk beds by then.
Who's there?
Amos who?
A mosquito bit me!


text:
by FUDU » Sun Jan 08, 2012 2:30 pm
.You make some valid points but running the ball has little to do with winning in the NFL right now. The biggest need for running the ball: to mix things up, inside the 10 and to help run out the clock when ahead in the playoffs
In the regular season- yes.
The playoffs are a whole different monster. Houston dominated that game yesterday by running and stifling D.
BTW, I hope after today people will finally take Matt Ryan's name out of the elite talk from now on. He 's as meh as they come.


text:
Retired Minnesota schoolteachers own one of the largest reindeer herds in the lower 48 states
A dozen reindeer jostle for their morning meal as rancher Daryl Simon, 65, pours a bucketful of oats into a trough on his 12-acre farm in Lake Crystal, Minn. (pop. 2,549).
While the animals are eating, Simon slips a bright red halter onto a young female and leads her into a horse trailer for a Christmastime appearance at a hardware store in nearby Mankato.
�Tilly is one of our favorites; she loves showing off for the crowds,� says Daryl�s wife, Yvonne, 63. �Tilly thinks the visitors are her herd.�
The Simons and business partner Bev Herda, 63, bought their first reindeer in 1993 after deciding to trade a hobby that costs money�raising and showing Arabian horses�for one that makes money. Today, the trio of retired schoolteachers owns Crystal Collection Reindeer, whose 40 animals compose one of the largest reindeer herds in the lower 48 states.
�We looked at raising everything from elk to emu,� Daryl says. �We fell in love with these calm and beautiful creatures.�
The reindeer ranchers breed and sell their animals, gather their shed antlers to make jewelry and knife handles and, from Thanksgiving through Dec. 25, haul the hoofed symbols of Christmas to festivals, shopping centers and parades across the upper Midwest.
During an appearance last December at C&S Supply-True Value store in Mankato, more than 300 people turned out to meet Santa Claus and to see Tilly, who pranced around her pen with antlers held high.
�I�ve seen Santa lots of times,� says Ayla Manthe, 3, visiting the store with her brother, Luka, 5, and father, Nathan. �I�ve never seen a reindeer!�
Store manager Dave Page has hired Crystal Collection Reindeer for holiday appearances the last 12 years. �Families love the tradition,� he says. �It�s great to get people into our store, but it�s worth it just to watch the kids� faces.�
�That looks like Rudolph,� says Ayla, referring to Tilly. �But where�s his red nose?�
�Rudolph is at the North Pole,� Daryl explains. �This reindeer is a friend of Rudolph.�
Then Tilly starts jumping, like she�s trying to leap out of her pen. Kids cheer. �Can they really fly?� Ayla asks.
�One sunset we watched a group of reindeer in a line, taking turns leaping into the air,� Yvonne says. �We�ve seen them do that many times, always around Christmas. Makes you wonder.�
Native to northern Eurasia, reindeer were domesticated by nomadic herders thousands of years ago for their meat, hides and antlers. On the Arctic tundra, the animals eat lichen, moss and twigs and are used to pull carts and sleds.
In the United States, reindeer have been associated with Christmas since publication of the 19th-century poems �Old Santeclaus� and �A Visit from St. Nicholas,� which depict the jolly gift giver driving a reindeer-drawn sleigh. The 1939 poem �Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer� reinforced the animal�s association with Santa Claus.
Outside of Alaska, an estimated 2,000 reindeer live on ranches in the United States. The animals are raised as pets or livestock and fed hay, grain and sugar beet pulp.
�Raising reindeer can be like raising cows,� says Herda, secretary of the Reindeer Owners and Breeders Association. �It can also be intense, especially when the babies are born in spring.�
The Simons and Herda say their relationship with their reindeer�and the crowd reactions�make raising and renting the animals worthwhile.
�It feels good to see people get into the Christmas spirit,� Yvonne says. �Each time we have a show, everyone�s smiling and saying �Merry Christmas.��
Brought to you by: American Profile


text:
Ducks Unlimited Member Forums
Who's On
Welcome Guest
Recent Posts
Popular Topics
Ducks Unlimited Main Forum
Waterfowling Hunting Tips
What will happen if I use both duck and goose decoys in my spread.
11 posts, Page 1 of 2
What will happen if I use both duck and goose decoys in my spread.
Rate Topic
Topic View
Topic Options
Posted 10/11/2011 5:43:46 PM
Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 7/19/2012 6:30:41 PM
Posts: 10,
Visits: 123
Hey guys I've been hunting ducks for about 3yrs. now and have just drawn for a blind on the Mississippi river. I was wanting to hunt both ducks and geese from this blind and was wondering if i could kill 2 birds with one stone using both goose and duck decoys. Am I shooting myself in the foot doing this or should I just hunt ducks during duck season and afterwards hunt geese? All thoughts appreciated!
Post #762272
QuackHead 96
Posted 10/11/2011 8:37:29 PM
Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 12/26/2013 7:09:26 PM
Posts: 307,
Visits: 1,511
Remember geese don't like to light over ducks. Get with the wind. Duck decoys at one side and goose decoys on the other. So here you go:
Goose Decoys Duck Decoys <---------- Wind
Coming from left to right.
Ducks will usually swim in. Hope this helps! Good luck!
Ben Perez
Burlington, NC
Avery Youth Field Staff
Lodge Creek Calls Pro Staff
Post #762283
Posted 10/12/2011 12:56:24 PM
Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 9/7/2014 7:34:58 PM
Posts: 184,
Visits: 2,075
Try putting out a spread of mixed puddlers, (mallards, blacks, pintails, etc.) and then off to the side add a small flock of goose decoys. The geese will like the honker impostors and for the ducks the geese will be like confidence decoys. Just make sure your two spreads aren't to close together. Have fun!
Post #762318
Posted 10/12/2011 3:41:37 PM
Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 7/19/2012 6:30:41 PM
Posts: 10,
Visits: 123
Perfect! just what I was hoping for. Thanks for the input fellas.
10/12/2011 3:42:06 PM by
Post #762322
Posted 10/17/2011 11:30:24 PM
Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 11/14/2013 8:39:04 PM
Posts: 88,
Visits: 494
Use geese as you primary decoys with some Mallards mixed in with them. Ducks will land with goose decoys without any trouble but geese don't typically land with duck decoys.
Post #762468
Posted 11/18/2011 12:14:29 PM
Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 11/4/2013 9:23:27 AM
Posts: 1,665,
Visits: 894
Honker-Konker (10/17/2011)
Use geese as you primary decoys with some Mallards mixed in with them. Ducks will land with goose decoys without any trouble but geese don't typically land with duck decoys.
Exactly what I have seen too! We are setting a mixed spread this weekend. Mainly mallards, pintails, and teal about 3 dozen strong. Off to the side and away from the ducks, a small flock of 5 canada geese to work as confidence decoys for the ducks and hopefully draw any passing geese we may see.
"Never a better sight than the sun rising over the marsh and ducks working the decoys."
Post #763831
whackem en stackem
Posted 2/15/2012 12:45:28 PM
Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 9/29/2012 2:39:31 PM
Posts: 38,
Visits: 263
You can either mix the geese in with the ducks but keep the geese in two and threes in the mix or put them off to the side. Ive tried both and have had similar success. We shot a couple geese this year in a mixed spread and a couple with the geese off to the side. Probably depends on where you hunt too. I hunt on Chequamegon Bay on Lake Superior.
Seaon Total
Canada Geese - 2
Mallards - 10
Green Wings - 18
Redheads - 6
Ringnecks - 2
Merganser - 3
Ruddy - 1
Buffle Head - 1
Shoveler - 1
Hooded Merganser - 1
Widgeon - 5
Total - 50
Post #766969
Posted 2/17/2012 10:02:15 PM
Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 8/30/2016 1:27:13 PM
Posts: 5,176,
Visits: 6,241
I usually put 3-6 Canada decoys to one side of my duck spread while duck hunting. And I've killed both ducks and geese over that set up in a single day, but I do usually separate them (just my preference). Unless it's goose season only, then I use goose decoys, with a few ducks for confidence.
However, if you are where they wanna be, or stray geese are looking for a place to light - I've called geese into a duck spread with no goose decoys, and killed them over duck decoys only.
Mix it up, play with it, and see how the birds react. Always keep the wind in mind when setting out your spread. Try to keep the wind blowing from behind you if possible, so they light from in front of you. Or at least right to left, or left to right. Never set up with the wind blowing in your face (IMHO).
East Side Broteam - Life member.
"No, I don't own a suit and tie. I'm just a casual kinda guy" - Raymond
Post #767021
daddy duck
Posted 2/18/2012 12:11:35 AM
Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 1/15/2013 2:14:55 PM
Posts: 306,
Visits: 946
where i hunt the goose season is closed during the reg duck season...so I mix both Goose and ducke decoys...duck will light in amongst goose decoy and since the season is closed I really dont care what the geese do.....one more thing if you are using goose decoys and duck decoys...and you got a partner with you use both calls...geese are very seldom quite make goose noises and duck sounds at the same time...gives it that refuge feel to your spread
"Next time I send fool.......I go myself!" Major Louis Cukela USMC
Post #767028
Posted 7/29/2012 1:34:02 PM
Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 8/26/2016 2:34:14 PM
Posts: 239,
Visits: 1,219
ive used goose and duck together ducks on one side geese on the other or on the ends.never got geese to come in close for me to feel comfortable to shoot but geese decoys pull in the wood ducks.they will prefere to land over by geese then the duck decoys.
Post #769135
11 posts, Page 1 of 2
Similar Topics
Powered By InstantForum.NET 2010-4 © 2017
Execution: 0.109.
6 queries.
Compression Enabled.
Search All Forums...
Advanced Search
Rate Topic
Rate This Topic
Flat Ascending
Flat Descending
Subscribe To Topic
Print This Topic
Goto Topics Forum


text:
All flavors
Taking CELLMASS® 2.0 promotes more efficient recovery, combats muscular fatigue and breakdown, and supports muscle strength, endurance and overall performance. Adequately recovered from an intense training session, athletes are better prepared to excel in the following day's workout. For anyone who wants to ensure that their workouts don't go to waste and their hard-earned muscle isn't compromised, CELLMASS® 2.0 is where mass and recovery begin.™
CELLMASS® 2.0 Highlights: BSN® has raised the bar on advanced recovery supplementation with the introduction of CELLMASS® 2.0. Taken immediately after training, CELLMASS® 2.0 is designed to support:
Recovery from Training Sessions
Replenishment of Muscle Creatine and Glutamine Stores
Muscle Strength and Endurance
Muscle Sparing
Where Mass and Recovery Begin!
|Amount Per Serving
|% Daily Value
|Total Carbohydrate
|1 g
|2 g
|20 mg
|CellMass 2.0 Proprietary Blend
|8.3 g
|Recovery Composite*
|Whey Protein Hydrolysate
|Glutamine Peptides
|Myogenic Matrix*
|Creatine Monohydrate
|Creatine HCl (Con-Cret)
|Creatine Anhydrous
|Insulino Interfusion*
|Banaba Extract (leaf) (18% Corosolic Acid) (GlucoHelp)
Con-Cret and Con-Cret Reinforced are registered trademarks of ProMera Health, LLC. Con-Cret is covered by one or more of U.S. Patent Numbers 8,025,385 and 7,608,641.
Made in the USA
Allergen Warning: Manufactured on equipment which processes products containing milk, egg, soybeans, wheat, shellfish, fish oil, tree nuts and peanut flavor.
Consult your physician before using this product if you are taking any medications or are under a physician's care for a medical condition. Not for use by those under hte age of 18, or woemn that are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or nursing.
|CellMass 2.0 Arctic Berry
|1.09 Pounds
|Save 36%
|In stock
|CellMass 2.0 Grape
|1.09 Pounds
|Save 36%
|In stock
|CellMass 2.0 Watermelon
|1.09 Pounds
|Save 36%
|In stock
|1 Scoop (9.9g) Contains:
Protein2g Carbs1g Fat0 Calories10
|and more
Servings: 50
Serving Price: $0.80
Protein Source: Whey
Sweeteners: Sucralose, Acesulfame-k
We do not rent or sell your email address to third parties. See our Privacy Policy for details. You can unsubscribe at any time.
You'll receive email newsletters at the following address:
Order by Phone 800-338-7979 24 hours | Customer Service 800-754-8000
Information provided on this site is solely for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Do not use this information for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing of any medications or supplements. Only your healthcare provider should diagnose your healthcare problems and prescribe treatment. None of our statements or information, including health claims, articles, advertising or product information have been evaluated or approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The products or ingredients referred to on this site are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, diet or exercise program, before taking any medications or receiving treatment, particularly if you are currently under medical care. Make sure you carefully read all product labeling and packaging prior to use. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, do not take any supplements without first consulting and obtaining the approval of your healthcare provider. California Consumers – Proposition 65 requires sellers to notify California consumers of substances that are in many foods, plants, herbs and supplements with the following warning. WARNING: These products contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.©2000-2017 Nutrition Express Corporation. All rights reserved.


text:
Skip to Main Content
| Give a Gift |
The Literary Agents list includes agents and literary agencies that represent poets, fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers, plus details about the kind of books they're interested in representing, their clients, and the best way to contact them.
|Literary Agency
|Interested in Representing
|Renee Zuckerbrot
|Renee Zuckerbrot Literary Agency
|Commercial Fiction, Historical, Literary Fiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Pop Culture
Poets & Writers is here to help. This handbook provides everything you need to know about finding the perfect literary agent to represent you and your work.
The first story I ever submitted will be published next the spring by an online magazine for no money. Does this limit the possibilities of publishing it elsewhere?
If I have many different forms of writing (self-published memoir, finished screenplay, completed short stories with an outline for a full short story collection, already...
Can I send a query for my book to more than one agent?


text:
Mrs. Flinger: A work in progress
UPDATE TO Mrs. Flinger October 16, 2015
Because the Universe has a wicked sense of humor, after this delcaration, my blog threw up all over my last upgrade.
So I'm starting over using Craft. Turning 40 and kid entering Jr High next year, sometimes it's just time for a change. These archives will still exist in the way the last child goes off to college and their room is the same for 20 years, but it's just time to move forward.
How to not be a tourist: AKA: ten things I learned in London today Jun 02, 2013
Wandering around London, alone, amidst crowds of families, strangers, losers, businessmen and lepers, I learnt a bit about how to fit in. The irony of that last sentence is that I've never quite learnt how to fit in at home. But here, lost in the crowds bumping shoulders with thousands of strangers, I find a way to quietly assimilate to the expectations of local society. Let me 'splain.
1. Don't carry around a paper map. Instead, hunt and peck on the map on your phone. You'll look just like the local texting his or her mate to meet up for drinks later. Only tourists use a paper map.
2. Purchase your souvenirs at the end of the day, not at the start. Nothing shouts tourist like carrying around a bag full of "I LOVE LONDON bracelets" and "My mom went to London and all I got was this lousy t-shirt." (P.S. Family and friends, you'll be receiving these shortly.)
3. If you find yourself unsure which way to go next, stop and ponder a menu outside a restaurant. This gives the illusion you're considering a place to eat whilst giving you the opportunity to check the location of the sun and triangulate your next move.
4. Dress like you were going to your local coffee shop. I know you think you're going to be walking a bunch and want to wear your white sneakers, but leave the stark white shoes at the hotel. You're not actually walking a marathon. Be comfortable but sensible. Take breaks as needed. See #3.
5. Don't try to speak like the locals. This can seem counter-intuitive but trust me; faking any accent will only get you in trouble. I consider myself pretty versed at English and pride myself at my "soft American Accent" but the truth is: I usually keep my mouth shut unless I have something useful to say. Also? This can be good advice at home as well. (Also: I'm lying. I often say random crap that sounds ridiculous but look, that isn't good advice so we'll work on this together.) (Also, I find myself randomly saying, "I'd like a nice cuppa tea" and finishing sentences with "init" so I'm speaking from experience.)
6. Walk with purpose. Go from one local to another with purpose. You can take your time and ponder the surroundings but walk like you know what you're doing, even when you have zero idea of where you're going. Peck at your phone-map and stop at a menu if needed but zig-zagging from intersection to intersection gives the illusion of someone unsure of what they're doing. Even if you are.
7. LOOK RIGHT. In London (the UK in general) cross the street looking RIGHT first. Your natural instinct to look left is wrong. If you look right first, you appear to have grown up in a place, the only place, where cars hit people who look left.
8. Walk on the left, stand on the right. If you're heading to the tube, follow the lead of locals and stand on the right of the escalator and walk on the left. Only a stupid American would stand on the left. Or middle.
9. Don't stand on the escalators. See #8 and just walk up and down the stairs. Unless you're on your phone-map trying to figure out what to do next. That's legit. (You're totally texting your mate to meet you for a pint later so everyone gets it.)
10. Use a knife and fork properly. Don't shovel your food with your fork in your right hand. Use a knife and fork the way Europeans do. Knife in your right hand, fork in your left. It's easier, you look dainty, and nobody will yell, "FAT AMERICAN" when you stab at the amazing piece of lamb you ordered because you can't order that in the states and not get sued. (Editors note; Ohymygod baby animals taste so goooood.)
(More pics here: On Flickr)
Shoot, dribble, or pass Jun 01, 2013
Many many years ago, in a small, reasonably priced apartment in Bellingham, my before-husband told me a story from his childhood about decision making. He played basketball at the church league up the street from his house during his Elementary and Jr. High years. Being a somewhat shy kid, he never had the confidence on the court that could allow him to succeed among other sweaty 10 year olds. The pressure of the ball being tossed at him was sometimes too much and he'd freeze, or just take off running like Forest Gump, forgetting all main facets of the game; namely that you have to bounce the ball whilst running and throw it at a high hoop thingy. I don't know the details of the rules, really. I wasn't there.
His dad used to coach the team and would watch incredulously as his eldest son choked every time the ball was passed to him. "Look, son," he said with a coach tone and fatherly wisdom, "don't think too much. You just gotta shoot, dribble, or pass."
This story was relayed to me a month before I moved back to Texas in 1998 which alternated the course of my life forever. The decision had been a laborious one and on that night I repeated, "You gotta shoot, dribble or pass" to myself a hundred times until I stopped thinking and decided to move.
Fifteen years later, while strolling along the Queen's walk in London this afternoon, I'm listening to Bossypants by Tina Fey (henceforth known as my new BFF "TF" because we're tight like that) and she relays a similar lesson from her past.
"You can't be that kid standing at the top of the waterslide, overthinking it. You have to go down the chute. (And I'm from a generation where a lot of people died on waterslides, so this was an important lesson for me to learn.) You have to let people see what you wrote. It will never be perfect, but perfect is overrated."
The point is, I haven't been letting you see my writing. I've been standing here, frozen, holding the ball and sweating. It's not that I think I need to be perfect, or have the ability to, or even that you need to read it, because I know you don't. The point is that I need to write it and I need it to be seen. Even if it's only seen by the one Russian bot who tends to visit religiously looking for, I'm guessing, potatoes. Whatever. I'm just saying it's time, y'all.
It's time.
So remind me to tell you the one about how my baby turned six and promptly grew a beard and started shaving. Or the one about my band of brothers in the UK who witnessed me clearing a dance-floor at a club and creating an honest-to-god hoedown (as you do). Or the time I sweated through two entire shirts in one day because being in your late thirties is a bitch. No, actually, that last one isn't so much of a story as just fact.
Is there something you're holding too tightly to? A dream you forget to dream? This is it. It's time. You gotta shoot, dribble, or pass.
Traveling Mom May 16, 2013
I'm sitting in a cafe in Manchester, UK. It's familiar, this cafe. The music, the people, the coffee. I think this is the key to traveling… everything at one point becomes familiar, even if only because we're sitting on the same globe under the same sky.
My family rings me daily, the video turning morning in to silly faces and kisses from across the pond. I marvel at the technology compared to my first trip to the UK in 2001 when I punched in a 400 digit number to reach a calling card and the country code and finally the home phone in hopes to reach my husband. Now I wake the children up on video phone, ala Jeston's like, rousing sleeping heads just before my dinner time.
I've been asked "how do you do it? How can you travel and leave your children?" It is only because of this technology and the patience of Mr. Flinger that I have this opportunity. As often as I miss and yearn for them, I also try to encourage them to ask the questions "what is it like there?" It's a small and simple task to encourage the children's curiosity. I show them the weather, the money, the photos. I introduce them to my friends and their young daughter, who greets them with a very adorably Northern English, "hallo!" My young son blushes at the little girl in glasses smiling at him over the screen. "They have children in England, Mommy?" "Yes, Buddy, they do. See?"
This curiosity grows like a seedling. As we listen to Ingrid Michaelson's "You and I," I hear a small voice in the back seat of the car, "Let's go to France and Germany, Mommy!"
In an effort to continue this curiosity, we recently tried out the Little Passports. The children received a small suitcase, a map, a "passport", an intro letter, and a craft from Japan. "You've been to Japan, Mommy!" They marveled at the map. We read about children in Japan. We worked on the Origami. They approved.
Every month a new package will arrive with a letter from "children" traveling the globe. They get a note, an activity, and a passcode to find more online. It's giving them the gift of wanderlust without leaving the country. It helps us talk about new places and things we might like to do one day.
It's such a simple thing: Getting Something In The Mail. But it's so fascinating to see this old technology: MAIL! light up the children's faces. We plan to have a real pen pal with the little girl in Manchester. In a way I have a real pen pal with her mother and father, my friends from a community of ExpressionEngine Geeks. The world now is so much smaller with twitter, facebook, and The Internet. But to see something tangible, to hold a gift from another country, to see a map with your eyes and hold the pin to mark the spot travelled: Tactile Learning is still very much alive.
I know for myself, as much as the video and technology helps, there is nothing like going home to hold, physically, the people I adore. As often as I crave the new places and old friends from everywhere, the coming home is what keeps me going.
And now, excuse me, but it's time for me to wake up my children again. Possibly using questionable song choice.
Adult ADHD Apr 14, 2013
#Life#ADHD#Getting to know me#Working Mom
I was counting the railroad tiles out the window when my facilitator read, "Is often prone to daydreaming…" Yes, I thought, my daughter does that! I take a note to remember that frequent daydreaming is a sign of ADHD.
I fidget and look at the clock. How LONG is this meeting? It's been 45 minutes already. My foot bounces at the end of my leg, a habit that irritates nearly every office mate I've ever had. I swirl my foot in circles and take more notes. "Fidgeting, constant moving, even in adults…" Impulsivity, forgetfulness, distractibility. If I hadn't been diagnosed a year and a half ago, this might come as a shock. Today, though, I sit, fidgeting, for nearly TWO HOURS (mygod two hours!) in my first Adult ADHD Women's Support Group with many others who are only learning this isn't "normal."
In my world, I am normal. In my world, I've always been this way. I've always had to work out daily or I can't sit still. I don't like going to the movies because they're too long. I thrive as being a "big idea person" and the one who "drives projects", the one who "loves change", the person who will show up in Amsterdam having not thought about what I was supposed to do once the plane landed. In my world there was NOW and NOT NOW. I write notes to remind myself of important events and forget where I put the note. I make plans and forget I already made plans. People who love me cherish this about me and those who don't? They don't stick around for long.
Nearly two years ago my world crashed down on me for those "cherished" attributes. After 35 years of coping mechanisms, the tiny rock-chip of balance broke in to a full crack, splitting my life in two. Projects, Marriage, Children, Friends, Family… everything fell to the ground from their balance on the high wire, the very high wire I carefully walked my entire life.
It's nearly a cliche now to hear people say how "ADD" they are. I remember hearing someone say that in front of my good friend Lotus, to which she replied, "You know, there are people that struggle to have a good life because of that." At the time I didn't know I was one of them. Today, I appreciate that response more than I can express.
After the urging of several key people in my life, after my daughter's teacher suggested getting her tested, after my world exploded, I decided to finally take an assessment for adult ADHD. **
I, along with 4% of the U.S. adult population, or 8 million adults, have Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder. I was lucky enough as a child to learn coping mechanisms which helped me succeed in school. I have a graduate degree in technology. I've enjoyed, for the large part, a "successful career" and life. I don't look like the disaster that ADHD can create in a person (unless you know me very well). But here's the secret: many "successful" people have, and struggle, with ADHD.
After my original diagnoses, I've followed up with a year of books, groups, therapy, podcasts, medications.
From Ari Tuckman's Podcast: "What Causes ADHD And What Doesn't" (recommended listening) he states the following:
- Research found ADHD is primarily passed via genetics.
- If someone has ADHD, there's a very good chance that at lease one other person in the family has it as well.
- 6 or more genes are involved and impact ADHD in its own way
- Some environmental influence can exacerbate the genetic component to ADHD but does not CAUSE ADHD.
- Diet and food additives. *Note - Diet can exacerbate an existing ADHD imbalance or can create similar symptoms (and thus mis-diagnosed cases) but does NOT cause ADHD as a chemical imbalance in the brain. (Before doing a research for false information, please try these peer-reviewed articles.) **please listen to the podcast for the reasons behind this correlation. "ADHD causes the eating of junkfood, not that junkfood causes ADHD"
- Poor parenting. *Usually at least one parent will also have ADHD so research shows that parents perform better when kids are under control, not reversed.
- Modern Society (Twitter, Facebook, etc). *Even with the overload in available distractions, it does not cause ADHD. Yes, twitter can distract even the most focused mind, but it does not cause ADHD. If this were true, societies with less technology or slower pace of life would have fewer cases but they don't. At most we can say ADHD symptoms are more debilitating and obvious in our face-pased and distracting world, like saying a white shirt is more obvious against a black background than it is a white one but we would never say the white background caused the white shirt.
The reason I share this with you now is twofold. 1. I survived, almost thrived, for 35 years with a brain chemistry deficit that could easily have derailed my life much earlier than it did but I had the structure and coping skills to handle this (until those failed from environmental factors). And 2. I am thriving again now that I have that knowledge.
ADHD can be a gift or it can cause pain and frustration. I enjoy the company of others just like me and I appreciate the company of the countless friends of mine who aren't. My closest friends can sit still, stay in routine, plan a trip and they gracefully (at least to my face) understand when I need reminding or a push to follow up. I am in a roll at work now where my "gifts" are appreciated and used to push products forward, lead, and see things from a higher-view and help those stuck in the mire of detail to keep an eye on the final outcome. People closest to me understand that my need to travel it is not a desire but a NEED. My children benefit from a mother who understands them and can offer solutions to their disorganization. We, as a house, have structured our lives for success and keep dates, events, and deadlines on a white board for everyone to see. Managing ADHD can be complex and take a lot of work but in the end, if it is preventing life from being as amazing as it can be, it's worth it. For me, I am learning to balance both: Allowing the impulsivity and spontaneous me to work within an 8 hour day of projects and deadlines and bills. Now I finish projects on time, pay bills on time, remember and arrive early to meetings.
Learning the hard truth about why I am the way I am has helped improve, not diminish, my life. ADHD is not an excuse to be distracted, it's a reason to get help.
Some resources:
- The fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) is being released in May, 2013 which will contain and updated diagnosis criteria for ADHD in both adults and children based on recent research.
- ADDitude Mag which offers a handout for debunking 7 myths of ADHD.
Books I've read (and recommend)
More Attention, Less Deficit: Success Strategies for Adults with ADHD
The Mindfulness Prescription for Adult ADHD: An 8-Step Program for Strengthening Attention, Managing Emotions, and Achieving Your Goals
Driven to Distraction (Revised): Recognizing and Coping with Attention Deficit Disorder
The Disorganized Mind: Coaching Your ADHD Brain to Take Control of Your Time, Tasks, and Talents
Is It You, Me, or Adult A.D.D.? Stopping the Roller Coaster When Someone You Love Has Attention Deficit Disorder
More Adult ADHD Book Resources
** Notes about assessments: If you are considering taking an assessment for ADHD, you will need to have a clinician who specializes in Adult ADHD help. There are several "inconclusive" tests that can lead to a false positive (Such as the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-V1.1 from WHO Composite INternational Diagnostic Interview which is only 6 questions long). The longer the test, the more inclusive and more accurate. All good clinicians will want to talk to a spouse or family member to confirm the replies as most ADHD people can be unrealistic with their personal perceptions.
Two good assessments (I've taken both):
Brown Attention-Deficit Disorder Scales for Adolescents and Adults: Definition.
Adult ADHD-RS-IV with Adult Prompts. Definition and Explanation. Assessment.
Because diaper changing isn't under NDA Feb 11, 2013
I first started blogging way way back in 2003, when I was pregnant and finishing my graduate degree, when I was a new mom and completely postpartum, when people used to say, "How on earth do you do it all AND keep up a blog?" People don't say that to me anymore. It's become obvious: I don't.
I've been staring at my blog lately wondering if it's going to speak to me. I sort of kick it around, poke at it, see if it's still breathing. I'm a curious bystander in my own life these days. It's not that I don't write anymore, because I do. A lot. I have pages and pages of blog posts and love notes and ideas written in my notebook on my laptop.
These ideas are now mostly shared with a very tiny select group of people: Namely those who live in my head. Every so often I venture to hand one or two to a loved one but most often the half written prose sit idly waiting for me to return from That Thing I Do Eight To Nine Hours A Day In The Office.
I think it's called work.
The ironic thing? I like that Work. I could write pages and articles about that thing that I do. I could delve in to discussions about app development, front end standards, managing motherhood and sanity and travel and mid-life crises and bosses. But I can't. Those parts of my day that I'm legally able to share get pulled in the rip-tide of life and those accomplishments and stories that I crave to write are sealed under "NON DISCLOSURE AGREEMENTS" and privacy laws and google's ever-watching (and caching) eyes.
In other news: I'll keep sitting next to this blog in the ICU while it waits in its comma. One day she'll wake up again. I promise to be here when she does. Will you?
Mrs. Flinger
Merry Merry and Happy All That Dec 26, 2012
In tradition with all Mommy Bloggers (Capital "M" and "B") I'd like to present to you a montage of TEH CUTEZ.
I know I know, I hear it. Sorry.
One of my favorite traditions is the annual Girls & Kids Christmas (Same of moms and kids camping gang). We gather the children to play until they sweat, feed them, trade presents (picked by lottery, one kid buys for one other kid) and make an ornament. I'm a fan of tradition. It's predictable and comfortable. It's so predictable, in fact, that as the years have progressed we have added children but still, every year, predictably, someone will sprint out of the "HOLD STILL FOR THE BLOODY PHOTO" part of the evening.
Every. Year.
In fact, kids are SO predictable, we even have this photo taken at another friend's house for the New Annual Gingerbread Mansion Making. (Dude, SERIOUSLY)
And, because my sister lives close enough now for us to do Christmas Eve together, we did.
Old Skool:
New Skool:
More toddler escaping pictures. (Know when to hold 'em, know when to walk away, know when to run….)
From 1985 to 2013, Happy New Year and Merry Christmas.
**2008 song by LB herself **
Merry Christmas!! from Mrs. Flinger on Vimeo.
Perspective Dec 16, 2012
The past 18 months have been particularly hard for me. I have not been writing here much as I can't exactly say what it is that unfolds in reality. I've stayed quiet, I've stayed away, I've stayed pre-occupied.
Some people came to rescue me at various times in the past year and a half. Others have quietly waited for me to get myself back together. And still others have turned away and left my life without a second glance.
Victoria is one of those people who, while being utterly frustrated by my lack of being available, never gave up on me as a friend. In fact, when I needed someone so desperately, as I was so remotely unavailable even to myself, she pushed her way in and stood ground while I gathered up my last bits of sanity. This isn't an exaggeration.
She's stood by watching me dog paddle the English Channel, knowing I was making progress even if scarcely noticeable.
And then life turns and shakes you up in the most unimaginable way.
We were emailing each other about some plans this weekend. We've been trying to get together for a while now, as is always my case it seems. We had definitive plans for Saturday with another good friend of ours. All of our children know each other from years at the same Montessori. These are people I've shared multiple holidays with and school plays and gathering, so the idea of getting together was exciting and welcomed. The children couldn't wait. Hell, *I* couldn't wait. Until I got the message from Victoria about the shootings.
Life suddenly was more precious and more tenable. I sat wringing my hands for hours, waiting, as the family did. I got her text, before anything public was said, and fell apart in the office. I didn't need any pictures to remind me what Noah looked like. I've met him. My son spent an afternoon with him playing together with their cousins. I drank wine with his mom, V's sister in law, thinking to myself how much I could *totally* hang out with her because she is great people.
I can only imagine her face today. Actually, I try not to imagine her face today.
It's that image, the image of another mom who lost her six year old son, that has kicked the ass out of my selfish quests. I can no longer fathom the world without these children in it. I can not imagine my world without
reminding my own son to brush his teeth, to listen the first time I tell him something and to please please please stop playing the DS and put on his shoes.
I can not imagine life without those easy struggles.
I've been able to help out some, not enough, the family that is hurt and wounded beyond anything I think anyone should endure. The truth of the story is that they've helped me even more than they know. Spending hours with her children, making stupid stories up to keep her mind off the real world, doing dishes because they need to be done; these are the easy parts of a larger whole. This whole is teaching the entire world, unfortunately at my very good friend's own heart ache, how precious life is.
Grief is horrendous. Life is precious. Friendship through darkness is salvation. To my own friend who held my hand back to safety, please send every ounce of love to her family as you can. And please, for all of us, go home and hug your children. Even if they refuse to put on their shoes.
To help Noah's family with funeral costs, you can donate here. Any money left over will go towards the trust. Thank you.
Too close to home Dec 14, 2012
I was in meetings all morning at work. I was fired up about some frustrating blockers about my seemingly important work of moving bits and bytes around on various screens.
Then I saw an email from one of my closest friends that her niece and nephew's school had a major shooting today.
They have her nieces but her nephew is still missing.
Now, look, I know that it's all the way in Connecticut and I live all the way here in Seattle. But V's son and my son are great buds. They go to schools a few miles apart. My son has played with her nephew, the one missing right now. So no, I do not think "there's nothing to worry about, it's not here, Leslie. It's ok," which is what people keep trying to tell me when they see my watery eyes looking lost at the office.
I believe there is a thousand reasons to run home and grab my children, and her children, and huddle together.
It's not ok. Not until they find her Nephew and he is safe and EVEN THEN it is not ok. Nothing about this is ok.
So please, please, please keep V and her family in your thoughts and prayers. I know there's a ton of support out there already waiting and watching with her but please add yours.
From one mom to every mom out there and to a particular one with whom I've shared wine and laughter with, who now waits to hear where her son is, mygod I feel for you. And that's not even enough.
Celebrating Life this Holiday Season Dec 07, 2012
"Everything changes in third grade, Bud." My wise eight year old is schooling her five year old brother. "You don't get a Big Buddy anymore at school. YOU ARE the Big Buddy."
These words hit something in my memory. I flash to a month after my Grandmother's death (something I've talked about before) and I remember my mom saying to me, "It's so weird to not have a mom. Now I *am* the mom."
Today is my grandmother's birthday. She passed away this month, too, but I try not to think of that date. Instead, when I think of my grandmother, I do so on this day, her LIFE day.
It wasn't until my early twenties, after my Grandfather passed that I came to know her better and it wasn't until after her death I realized how alike we are. My Grandmother was a traveler, a writer, a hard worker. She enjoyed the company of girlfriends and her family. She struggled with depression and a need to please everyone. She wore class and kindness the way some women wear pearls.
That last bit, I'm still working toward.
My Grandmother is the kind of person who is always alive. She lives in my goals and life's lessons. She lives in my wishes. She lives in my daughter and my son when I look at them and picture her next to them at Christmas or birthdays.
It's been a decade since her death. A decade. Someone might wonder, then, why this day would mean anything more than The Day We Were Brought In To The War (for the American citizens) or Just Another Bloody Working Day (for the rest). But the truth is, in ten years so much has append. My Grandmother was the kind of lady who would IM me during the work day and even still I miss this. My Grandmother was the lady who would stay out until 11pm talking at Starbucks with my Mom and I. My Grandmother was the person to bestow some of the best advice of marriage and life and living. Even in her death, my Grandmother has shaped so much of who I am, where I went, what I became.
They say you have to skip a generation to truly understand who you are. I dunno, maybe they don't say that but I just did. Moms and Daughters might clash but the Grandmother / Grandaughter relationship is beyond judgement or strife or told-you-so's. Especially with my Grandma who guided her grandchildren quietly behind their mothers, quietly behind their fathers, and quietly leaving the biggest impact of all.
I miss and love you G'ma. I still have you on my Yahoo IM. You know.. just in case there's Internet in Heaven. (Do they have that yet? Because seriously, even the rural areas do here.)
The Universe Called Collect Nov 16, 2012
As a little girl sitting in a pew at St Mary's Catholic Church, I was pretty sure the Priest was talking directly to me about 90% of the time. (The other 10% I figured he was talking about those girls at school who really needed to go to confession for breaking commandment number 5: Honor your father and mother because surely that could never be me.) Even if it was a sermon about giving money back to the church or not overdoing the strong drink, or treating work as a sanctuary, I still took these to heart at 8 years of age. God was telling me something. He had to be. Didn't I just have too much Tang yesterday?
The thing is this didn't just happen at church. Even though I don't attend church any more (for a variety of reasons) I still find the Universe taking massive attempts to tell me something.
Or maybe I'm just really really very self absorbed.
Every song, every movie, every quote from the books I read seem to reach in to my subconscious and pull out the feelings I've spent a few months (years?) doing my best to shove down. It's like buying a new car and suddenly everyone on the road is driving your car. Or naming your child and suddenly everyone has an Owen. You know how in your own mind you've started a trend when in reality, you're just opening up to seeing something that's been there all along because it means more to you know?
It's like that. Only more.
So I really shouldn't be shocked at all when Sensei George tells the children's story after karate and he is, I am not kidding, speaking directly to me. I mean, sure, he tells a story of moral value after every karate class he teaches. Sure he tells about 80 different stories he chooses based on what the children seem to need to hear. But y'all, Sensei George turned to my heart and spoke priest-like to the 8 year old inside of me last night.
"When you stand, stand. When you sit, sit. Whatever you do, do not wobble."
This might not mean as much to you, or maybe it does, but these fourteen words hit a place in my troubled heart. How does he know I needed to hear that?
I swear I actually looked back on Facebook posts and blog posts to see if maybe I gave away something.
Maybe I need to accept the fact that sometimes the marvel of the human brain is how it grabs on to what it needs to hear, process, and apply to situations. Maybe I need to listen more and shove feelings away less. Maybe I need to own up to the fact that even in mid-life I'm still learning how to hear when the Universe knocks …. or calls collect… and when to answer.


text:
Style and affordability in glasses frames and fashion eyeglasses
At GlassesPoint we pride ourselves on being the online glasses store with the best range and lowest prices on eyeglasses and fashion glasses frames (including cheap reading glasses, bifocals and progressive lenses). Our modern and sophisticated fashion glasses make shopping for and wearing eyeglasses a pleasure! Whether you are after a classic pair of eyeglasses or a modern pair of funky fashion glasses, we work hard to provide our valued customers with the highest quality optical solutions and frames at the best prices - try us today to experience the difference!


text:
If you're a dog owner, then you're probably no stranger to the phrase, "Wanna go for a walk?" When your dog hears this, she likely perks up her ears and gets very excited, but you may find that you dread the trip around the block from time to time. However, fitness is essential in order to ward off obesity in dogs, a condition that could lead to serious health problems like diabetes in dogs. Spicing up your exercise routine with your canine companion can make your own experience more enjoyable and help her stay active. Here are some ideas on how to change things up:
Brisk walks are more exciting
Your dog may enjoy taking slow strolls so she can sniff every leaf and twig she passes, but this isn't the ideal way for her to get her exercise. You'll need to find a way to get her heart rate up when you're out and about, and one great way to do this is by taking "exercise walks." This simply means increasing the pace of your walk so your dog has to move quicker, and thus burn more calories. Use a shorter leash for such walks so your pet will be at your side, and remember - you are in charge of the pace. Your dog may protest at first, but eventually she'll learn that certain walks will happen at a faster speed. To keep your canine happy, mix in exercise walks with the occasional slow stroll.
Bonding with fitness
Another way you can change your dog's exercise pattern is by engaging in good, old fashioned playtime. Pick up a few toys you think your dog would like, or bring her with you to a pet-friendly supplies store and let her select her own. Make sure it can easily be thrown and chased, as a game of fetch is an excellent way to your pet get moving. Even less active games like tug of war can be good for your dog's pet health.
Social hour for your dog
If your pet does well with other animals, then consider bringing her to a local dog park. These are enclosed areas where canines are free to roam around off the leash, and it's not uncommon to see dogs start up a game of "tag," which means lots of running. Remember that it may not be safe to bring your pet to a dog park if she is prone to dog aggression, but if your animal is social, then these spaces can be ideal.
Hit the trails
Your canine companion may be content to walk around the same block three times a day, every day, but this is going to get boring for you pretty quickly. Every once in a while, bring your pet to a new location that you can explore together. Walks through the woods or strolls on the beach can be fun, but if you live in an urban environment, even visiting a new part of the city can be exciting.