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Interview, page 20 PHOTOGRAPH BY ANDREW BUURMANReuse content
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BROWN, SUGAR: Chancellor Gordon Brown took time off Budget duties to visit the directors' box at White Hart Lane. He was there as a guest of club owner Alan Sugar to watch Spurs draw 3-3 with Liverpool. Mr Brown's girlfriend, public affairs consultant Sarah Macaulay, was not with him, but her absence did not prevent fresh media speculation that they will wed soon. The gossip was fuelled by the Independent on Sunday's disclosure in an interview with Mr Brown that Ms Macaulay is a frequent visitor to his home in his Dunfermline constituency. "Marriage is important, and I'm sure I'll do it one day," he says. "It's not something anyone should be forced into."


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World News
Iraqi forces say they have seized Hatra antiquities site
Iraqi forces say they have captured Hatra, a 2,000-year-old historical site near the northern city of Mosul where a battle with the Islamic State group has been raging for months.
Wednesday 26 April 2017
World News
Iraqi forces say they have captured Hatra, a 2,000-year-old historical site near the northern city of Mosul where a battle with the Islamic State group has been raging for months.
Pope Francis has warned the powerful to act humbly or risk ruin, in a Ted talk urging the world to show more solidarity with the poor and weak.
Turkey's main opposition party is to challenge the outcome of the country's April 16 referendum on expanding presidential powers at the European Court of Human Rights.
The EU has launched legal action against Hungary over a new higher education law that critics say is aimed at shutting down a university founded by billionaire philanthropist George Soros.
China has launched its first aircraft carrier built entirely on its own, in a demonstration of the growing technical sophistication of its defence industries.
China and the European Space Agency are discussing a potential collaboration for a human outpost on the moon, according to reports.
Hours after a display of North Korean military power, rival South Korea have announced the installation of key parts of a contentious US missile defence system meant to counter the North.
Analysis of samples taken from a deadly sarin gas attack in Syria earlier this month "bears the signature" of President Bashar Assad's government and shows it was responsible for the deadly assault, France's foreign minister said.
Police launched simultaneous operations across Turkey on Wednesday, detaining hundreds of people with suspected links to US-based cleric Fethullah Gulen.
An unarmed Minuteman 3 intercontinental ballistic missile has been launched from a US Air Force Base in California on a flight to a target in the Pacific Ocean.
A second person arrested in connection with the April 7 lorry attack that killed four people and injured 15 others in Stockholm has been released, Swedish authorities said.
Ten suspects have been arrested in an investigation into who supplied weapons to one of the three attackers who killed 17 people in terror attacks at Charlie Hebdo magazine and a kosher supermarket in Paris in January 2015.
The wife of a Thai man who hanged their 11-month-old daughter on Facebook Live has said her husband is the only person to blame, and she bears no anger towards the social media site or the users who shared the horrific video.
Japan's disaster reconstruction minister has resigned after saying "it was good" that the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami hit a northern region instead of areas closer to Tokyo.
A Brazilian goalkeeper convicted over the killing of a former girlfriend has been ordered back to jail.
A tourist from England has been struck by a hammock that fell from a building in New York.
Venezuela's chief prosecutor has denounced a wave of unrest that has killed 26 people, vowing to hold all those responsible accountable and calling on both sides of a heated political spectrum to "lower the tone of confrontation".
President Donald Trump's tax plan will amount to "the biggest tax cut" and the "largest tax reform" in US history, according to Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin.
George HW Bush has recovered from pneumonia but he is still dealing with the effects of chronic bronchitis, a doctor who is treating the former president said.
French presidential candidate Marine Le Pen has upstaged opponent Emmanuel Macron by making a surprise campaign stop to a home appliance factory.
A man awaiting trial over the murder of two British tourists on his boat nearly four decades ago has died.
US stocks saw a second straight day of strong gains, boosted by encouraging earnings reports from major firms including Caterpillar and McDonald's.
International donors have pledged 1.1 billion US dollars (£860 million) for war-torn Yemen, the UN secretary-general said.
The US has urged the UN Security Council to impose an arms embargo and additional sanctions on South Sudan to pressure the parties to end the country's civil war - but Russia and China remain opposed.
US president Donald Trump's former national security adviser, Michael Flynn, appeared to break US law when he failed to seek permission or inform the government about accepting tens of thousands of dollars from Russian organisations after a trip there in 2015, congressional...
The world's last male northern white rhino has joined the Tinder dating app as wildlife experts make a last-ditch breeding effort to keep his species alive.
US president Donald Trump has condemned those who deny the Holocaust and pledged to confront anti-Semitism.
A Thai man upset with his wife has hanged their 11-month-old daughter on Facebook Live before killing himself.
Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has cancelled a meeting with the visiting German foreign minister over the latter's plans to hold a meeting with Israeli rights groups.
French far-right presidential contender Marine Le Pen has called for more food to be produced and consumed in the country known as the gastronomic centre of the western world.
Actor Scott Baio has said he was responding to media reports when he suggested the death of his former Happy Days co-star Erin Moran may have been due to substance abuse problems.
Turkey's highest court has rejected the main opposition party's bid to appeal the result of the April 16 referendum on boosting the president's powers.
French presidential front-runner Emmanuel Macron has launched a political offensive against far-right leader Marine Le Pen, saying her platform is based on "hatred for others" in contrast to his desire to "calm" the country.
Turkish warplanes carried out air strikes against suspected Kurdish rebel positions in northern Iraq and north-eastern Syria on Tuesday, the military said, in a bid to prevent militants from smuggling fighters and weapons into Turkey.
France's top officials have joined presidential candidates at a national ceremony held in honour of the police officer killed by an Islamic extremist on the Champs-Elysees.
Spanish police have arrested nine suspected members of a jihadi group in connection with recent deadly attacks in Belgium and France.
The level of government borrowing in the 19-country eurozone has fallen to its lowest level since early 2008.
Fourteen people have been killed after a roadside bomb targeted a minivan in Pakistan's north-western tribal region.
Ministers from Australia and New Zealand have joined hundreds of people at the site of the Battle of Gallipoli in Turkey to remember those who were killed on the 102nd anniversary of the start of the ill-fated campaign.
A collision between a bus and a trailer truck has left 27 people dead, Kenyan police have said.
Ivanka Trump drew groans and hisses from an audience in Berlin as she defended her father's attitude towards women.
North Korea has held major live-fire drills as it marks the anniversary of the founding of its military.
Protesters sprawled in lawn chairs, worked on maths homework and played cards on main roads around Venezuela's cities, joining in sit-ins to disrupt traffic as the latest slap at the socialist government.
After going nearly 12 years without executing an inmate, the US state of Arkansas has executed three in a few days - including two in one night.
The Senate has confirmed former Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue to be agriculture secretary in President Donald Trump's administration.
Robert M Pirsig, whose philosophical novel Zen And The Art Of Motorcycle Maintenance became a million-selling classic and cultural touchstone after more than 100 publishers turned it down, has died at age 88.
Former US president Barack Obama has used his first public appearance since leaving office to dole out advice to young people on leadership, managing social media and even marriage.
French far-right presidential candidate Marine Le Pen has announced that she is temporarily stepping down as head of her National Front party.
An office building in Dallas has been declared safe after an incident in which a man shot his female supervisor dead before turning the gun on himself.
The US has issued sanctions against 271 people linked to the Syrian agency responsible for producing non-conventional weapons as part of an ongoing crackdown on Syrian president Bashar Assad's alleged use of chemical weapons.
Congo's government has obtained a five-minute mobile phone video which shows the gruesome murders of two United Nations experts who were killed last month while investigating human rights abuses.
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THE same kinds of tags that let cars move quickly past tollbooths may soon help the armed forces keep track of their vehicles, weapons and people.
''The end game of this,'' said Ron Gilbert, a senior scientist at the Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, in Richland, Wash., ''is to tag everybody and everything and know what it is, what its status is, and know where it is.''
The small rectangular tags respond to radio waves sent by a special transmitter called an interrogator. This is how it works: A soldier operating an interrogator sends a radio signal to a tag placed on an object. A tiny antenna on the tag is stimulated by the signal and sends information about its identity and location to the interrogator.
The communicators are called radio-frequency tags, or R.F. tags. Bulkier versions have been used for several years to keep track of tolls or inventory, both by private companies and by the government. But the new tags are being designed to be as small as a few inches long and to be capable of handling more information.Continue reading the main story
The interrogators should be able to find the new tags from as far away as several hundred feet. From that distance, a helicopter flying over a storage container could determine exactly what was inside the unit. The interrogators could also scan several items at once, allowing them to check an entire case of battlefield supplies.
Some of the tags will be able to operate without batteries, absorbing and recycling energy from an interrogator's signal. These new tags are expected to have a range of 30 feet, compared with less than 5 feet for the current tags, Mr. Gilbert said.
Slightly larger tags that are equipped with small batteries will not only have a greater range -- several hundred feet, Mr. Gilbert said -- but will be able to connect to sensors that can monitor conditions like temperature and humidity.
In one application, the new tags might be programmed to keep an object like a pair of night vision goggles disabled until they were scanned. That would deter theft, Mr. Gilbert said. ''Unless you're the right soldier with the right ID code,'' he said, ''we can render the item useless.''
The new tags are being prepared for field testing by the Navy. Depending on the outcome of those tests, the tags could be sent back for changes, approved for use or canceled outright.
Almost any object could be tagged. In a study by the Defense Department last year, researchers attached tiny tags to honeybees to determine whether the bees could be tracked. The idea is that researchers might someday be able to locate things like land mines by analyzing particles carried back to the hive by each bee and correlating those particles with where the bee had been that day. But the tags were too heavy for the bees and are being redesigned.
In the last 10 years, radio-frequency tags have been used in many commercial applications. Railroads, for example, use the tags to keep track of trains. And on many toll roads and bridges, vehicles equipped with special radio-frequency tags, like E-ZPass tags, can move through through tollbooths without stopping. The tag tells an interrogator at the booth to let the car through without sounding an alarm.
But as the tags become smaller and able to handle more information, new uses will be possible. One application being developed is an radio-frequency dog tag that could replace the metal identification tags that soldiers wear on chains around their necks. Medics would be able to read information like the soldier's name, age, allergies and blood type from the tag. The Department of Energy laboratory has developed a working prototype and may be ready to produce the tags for the military within two years, Mr. Gilbert said.
After treating a wounded soldier on the battlefield, a medic could send a signal that would inscribe on the dog tag the type of medical care the soldier has received.
When the soldier arrived at the hospital, Mr. Gilbert said, ''they know who he is, what he does, and what the corpsman did to him in the field.'' Currently, Navy medics, for example, record information about a sailor's injury and treatment on a slip of paper, which can be soiled or misplaced.
One problem is that many of the interrogator units to be used with the new tags are the size of toolboxes, Mr. Gilbert said. But Mr. Gilbert said his laboratory might try to convert personal digital assistants for use as radio-frequency interrogators.
Mr. Gilbert said the laboratory would probably use something like the Handspring Visor, which has expansion slots that add to the device's capabilities.
Petty Officer First Class Michael Stiney, who is helping to evaluate the electronic dog tag at the Naval Aerospace Medical Research Laboratory in Pensacola, Fla., said that a major advantage of the tag was that information about injuries could be sent from the medic's interrogator to a central computer, where patterns could be analyzed. ''If you pick up a certain batch of symptoms in a certain area of conflict, you could diagnose or predict an outbreak of a food-borne illness or a chemical attack,'' he said.Continue reading the main story


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NEW The Drako Garra
In cultures throughout the world, the legend of the dragon has long haunted the minds of man as a metaphor for the untamed power of nature, primal fear and the unknown. New for 2017, Cabot Guns introduces the Drako Garra to capture the mythology and legend of the dragon and re-present it to the 21st century. This limited production 1911 adds yet another chapter to the myth of the dragon.
Dragons have surfaced world-over in artwork, heraldry, statue and myth. Depictions of these beasts awaken feelings of mortality in even the bravest of souls and have been unearthed in ancient ruins from the far-East to medieval Europe and the long extinct aboriginal Americas. Often serpent-like and claw-footed, these mystical and often fire-breathing, the idea of the dragon has been passed down through verbal history and wonderment of a culture from one generation to the next. The Cabot Drako Garra, Esperanto for Dragon Claw is also an item to passed down for generations.
Born from a solid block of 416 Stainless Steel and offered in .45ACP and 9mm, the Drako Garra roars with each trigger-pull as it sends fire and brimstone downrange. Like dragons of old, the Drako Garra itself is adorned with the sharpest of claws. In place of traditional forward and rear cocking serrations, instead, are found two sets of three parallel claw marks embracing the slide and carrying seamlessly onto the frame. Mill-engraved using computer-numeric-controlled technology onto the face of the slide and frame, these positive and negative reliefs provide an effective grip when operating the slide of the Drako Garra. The careful observer will see further proof of Cabot's commitment to unparalleled precision when disengaging the thumb safety – its lines and angles aligning perfectly to those of the rear-claw serrations.
Cabot's ground breaking radiused, precision-fit trigger has been graced with an all-new electric discharge wire cut design of twin-claws, exactly scaled from their larger brethren found on the cocking serrations. The one of a kind dragon's claw design trigger is designed not only to fit perfectly to the natural curves of the human finger, but also to compliment the design prominent on the pistol's slide and frame.
The simple elegance of piano-black Ebony wood grips completes the look at feel of the Drako Garra, Dragon themed 1911. Selected specifically for their light-absorbing warmth, they subtly contrast the hand-polished finish completed under the practiced eye of Cabot's artisan craftsmen. A firm and focused grip, powerful enough to tame a dragon, is ensured by Cabot-unique 24 line per inch rhombus checkering along the grip's front strap and billet-made main spring housing. The bevelled magazine well enables quick and sure feeding of magazines to the Dragon by the shooter. Along the top of the slide run precision-ground serrations designed to eliminate any possible glare that would impede upon the shooter's sight picture – a picture formed by combining a front sight gold-dot fitted through Cabot's proprietary reverse-dovetail and any of a range of rear sight options.
Cabot's signature mill-engraved star faces ever forward on the frontage of a full-length guide rod, nestled beneath a 9-axis billet constructed barrel bushing of unmatched fit and finish. Tight, clean, crisp – powerful; this is the promise of the Cabot Drako Garra.
Let others be inspired by tales of ancient myth while you hold proof-positive of their corporeal existence. With a Cabot Drako Garra at your side, you write the tome which will become legend to future generations.
Price $4,950
Features Include:
Dark Mammoth Molar Grips + $850
Ebony Fibonacci Grips + $150
Tritium Sights + $200
Low Mount Adjustable Rear Sight + $125
Not ready to order? Join our Mailing List >>>
Looking for something with a little more eye-catching? Explore our signature Jones Deluxe 1911 Pistol >>>


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Ways To Make Money With Twitter
Posted on 10. Feb, 2012 by Sean Rasmussen in Internet Business
Twitter is definitely one of the most popular social media sites on the web. Outside of Facebook, it's probably the second most visited social media site on a daily basis. Businesses, celebrities, and regular everyday people use Twitter for all sorts of reasons. While Twitter doesn't (yet) have ads and things like that like Facebook does, there are ways you can make money with Twitter. Read on for some advice and options..
Twitter updates can have links in them. These links can drive people to websites where they could buy something. If you've got an online store or are participating in an affiliate marketing program, Twitter could be a great way to help you promote your efforts. While this doesn't mean you're making money with Twitter directly, you're using Twitter to make money with another area. If you develop a big following and write compelling tweets, you can get people to click your links and the place they land could generate money for you.
Post Paid Tweets
Because many advertisers know how valuable Twitter can be, many of them will pay people to Tweet for them. MyLikes is one example of a company that will pay you to Tweet. You don't receive a flat fee per tweet but you receive a performance-based commission rate. You might have to tweet a link about a handbag or a vacation package, for instance, and for every person that clicks your link you could be awarded $.05 or something like that. If you have a large follower list, this can add up.
Ghost Tweeting
Some companies want to rev up their marketing activities and hire people to help. You could potentially make money with Twitter by managing a business's Twitter account for them. If you advertised your ghost tweeting services, you could be paid a flat fee for a specified number of tweets or be paid hourly for your efforts.
Whether you try to make money with Twitter directly or use Twitter to augment another money making effort, it's definitely a great tool for sharing quick bits of information. If you're just beginning to delve into the world of making money with Twitter, familiarise yourself with all the lingo and the features of Twitter. Be sure you don't attempt to take to spamming or you'll get un-followed by followers at the very least and at the worst, you could also get your Twitter account suspended.


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Begin Your Adventure Now With More Exciting LINE GamesTelecommunication Press Releases วันศุกร์ที่ ๘ มีนาคม พ.ศ. ๒๕๕๖ ๑๔:๒๐ น.
- 3 unique adventures unleashed with LINE Dragon Flight, LINE WIND runner & LINE Tiny Farm
- Globally-acclaimed games reinforce LINE's compelling games platform worldwide
The top 3 sensation games of 2013, LINE Dragon Flight, LINE WIND runner and LINE Tiny Farm, have finally arrived in Thailand, after becoming a social phenomenon in established mobile game markets such as Korea and USA. By integrating adventure and action-based games into mobile applications, the three have set a new benchmark in the world of mobile gaming.
As the hottest mobile messaging platform, LINE has been proudly joined by the games' internationally rising developers, WeMade Entertainment, NextFloor Corp and Com2uS to become their global game platform. As LINE continues its evolution from a mobile messaging app to a fully-fledged smartphone life platform, increasingly powerful and social games will be rolled out, enabling LINE friends to play together no matter where they are.
- LINE Dragon Flight
- LINE WIND runner
- LINE Tiny Farm (Coming Soon!)
Movie sets can be noisy places with a lot of confusing activity but sometimes walking onto a soundstage can instantly bring to life a breathtaking world of fantasy. One such place was the set of "Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed," which I visited along wi...
The first adventure myth set in the Internet, E-WALLY AND THE QUEST, introduces children ages 8-12 to safe Internet fun and responsible habits. The book and its ad-free website engage kids through a powerful cyber hero, E-Wally! The potential of the Inter...
SSA Global Technologies, Inc. (SSA GT), a worldwide provider of enterprise solutions and services, today announced the completion of its acquisition of Infinium Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: INFM). SSA GT has acquired 100 percent ownership of Infinium as the re...


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Disclaimer: I do not own the rights to Yo-Jin-Bo
The road was a long one, it seemed. Getting back to the castle had been an arduous task, as the two of them had traveled very far away. Atonement had taken them all over the island. Still, the two of them took their time, content with the company they had. Alone on this stretch of road the two of them had laced their hands together, walking without care to who was around. Being like this... was it the same as being married? Surely nothing would change. The two of them would still be together forever, as their destiny was foretold. Yes, she was sure.
"Do you think you could do it?" Sayori asked him tenderly, looking over. Ittosai glanced in her direction.
"Become a Lord? No... I have no noble blood." The knowledge hung between them like a curtain. Sayori had what Ittosai did not. Her fingertips rubbed gently against his arm.
"Do things like that matter here?"
"Un. Our stations are determined by our birth. There's only so far a person can raise themselves."
It was a shame. She wished desperately in that moment that they had gone back to her time. But that wasn't possible anymore. Ittosai was here, and Sayori could not change that. Would he even be able to live in the future?
"So you are... Hoping that they won't let me inherit when they find us married?" She couldn't help but smile at his craftiness. He glanced down to her, managing a quiet chuckle.
"Sayori.. It doesn't matter what happens when they find out. I won't allow you to be separated from me."
It was a powerful declaration, and one she knew he would make good on. Sayori found herself smiling despite all the anxiety in her heart.
The definitive statement of her name drew the female out of her thoughts. She looked up, only to be caught in a heated kiss. Her cheeks flushed, green eyes slowly closing as her mouth opened to accept him. She had found out quickly how passionate the man underneath that murderous intent was. Or perhaps he had always been passionate.
No, she wasn't going to think about that now. Instead the femme raised her free hand to comb through his hair, drawing him down against her. The whinny of a horse drew them apart, Sayori's hand flying to her chest. Ittosai glanced down the road, taking note of the man riding towards them. He began to walk again, making sure Sayori remained close behind. She had grabbed onto his coat, trailing behind just a few steps. The man reined in his horse, looking down at the two of them with a sort of scornful derision.
Sayori stole a glance over Ittosai's shoulder. She would admit the was handsome, with obviously young features. His black hair was pulled into a high ponytail as younger samurai often did, those blue eyes watching them carefully. "Identify yourself."
Ittosai stared up at the young samurai with the same cold calculation that he had often possessed when they had first met. "Is it not rude to address us from the back of your horse?"
"Hn.." The young swordsman jumped from the saddle of his horse. The beast pranced, settling at his touch. "Answer the question."
"Tatsunami Ittosai." Ittosai spoke with the same detached tone he often used to introduce himself. Sayori tightened her grip on his sleeve. The samurai looked behind the blond, staring at the pretty girl on his arm. He moved forward, and Ittosai moved into a defensive stance almost automatically.
"And hers?" He was staring intently at the girl on his arm. Sayori hid further behind her lover, showing a quiet uncertainty. Ittosai shielded her as best he could, knowing the power of Hatsuhime's face.
How could she answer him? She could call herself Hatsuhime, or call herself Sayuri. Her gaze shifted to Ittosai's pale eyes. The blonde looked down at his woman before glancing back towards the samurai.
"Mochizuki Hatsuhime." It would be better to drop names. He wouldn't dare harm a princess. "Now, your own name?"
The black-haired samurai looked between the two of them before speaking quietly. "Hatsuharu Jouji." He moved around the blonde in a slow arc, shifting down to one knee. Sayori blinked at him curiously. "Forgive my impudence, Hatsuhime-sama. I did not recognize you. I was sent by your father to escort you back to the castle." He stood slowly, his gaze shifting back to Ittosai. The blond had moved in front of her again, blocking Jouji's view. The two of them locked gazes, an intense dislike sprouting between them. Sayori shifted out from behind Ittosai, no longer as frightened as she had been.
"You came from the castle?" She asked softly. Jouji's attention shifted back to her. He smiled, his features softening in a way that Sayori found attractive. The young samurai nodded.
"I am a noble under the training of your father. He sent me to collect you and bring you home." A noble... This was not good. "If you and your bodyguard would allow me to accompany you back to the castle?"
"Oh... Ittosai isn't my bodyguard." She spoke up with sudden boldness. Jouji looked to her again, confused. He held the reins of his horse in one hand. "He's my... We are..."
She couldn't find the right word. After a moment she looked up to Ittosai for help. The blond smiled absently, raising a hand to stroke her hair before regarding the young noble. "She is my fiance."
The word hung in the air like a bomb. Jouji stared at the ronin as if he were insane, and Sayori blushed darkly. The young male looked towards the princess, who nodded slightly in confirmation.
"This is... strange. The princess is engaged to two people at once?" Jouji smiled wryly, moving down the road. Sayori and Ittosai followed, the blond keeping his own body inbetween the black-haired samurai and his lover. Sayori glanced across his form, looking curiously at Jouji. She would admit he was handsome. Not like Ittosai. He didn't have the roughness of someone who had lived a hard life, or the sharp features that were reminiscent of Ittosai's days as a sociopathic murderer. In regards to her boyfriend, Jouji was actually rather soft. He still had the noble features of a true lord, and she was sure that his slender frame was just as muscled as Ittosai's. The notion made her blush, and she hid at the blond's side again. Ittosai looked to her curiously, frowning at her expression. He glared at the man next to him.
"Engaged to two people?" Sayori ventured quietly, toying with the hem of her kimono. Jouji nodded.
"Your father, Lord Mochizuki, sent me here to retrieve you because you and I are engaged." It was like someone had cracked a mirror. Sayori could hear it shatter. Ittosai clenched his fist, his cold expression darkening. "Or so he had told me. It was quite surprising to go meet you, only to find out that you weren't there. And here I find you engaged to another man?" He chuckled wryly.
"I was under the impression that I had everyone's blessing to be with Ittosai. They had agreed to my leaving with him, knowing how I felt." She answered him indignantly, earning a quiet laugh.
"Forgive me, hime. I should not have been so familiar." He spoke with amusement, which only seemed to irritate Ittosai. "I just thought you would have remembered me."
Remembered... Was he someone from Hatsuhime's past? Sayori looked to the swordsman again, eventually offering an apologetic smile. He smiled at her warmly, shaking his head. "It's ok. We only met once, and that was a very long time ago. But I did not forget about you. It is nice to see you grew up into a proper princess."
Ahahah... She grabbed hold of Ittosai's coat, tugging him closer. The ronin slipped his arm through his sleeve, allowing Sayori to grab hold of it. She used him as a security blanket, hugging his arm snug against her body. Jouji did not miss this affection, finding himself just as irritated as Ittosai had been a moment ago.
"She seems quite attached to you." He spoke like a boy that had been rejected, and his sullen expression matched. Ittosai smirked, glancing smugly at the samurai.
"If she agreed to marry me of her own free will I would imagine she's more than attached." Sayori smiled despite herself, lowering a hand to brush against his. He grabbed hold of it, bringing it to his mouth to kiss. She blushed, leaning her temple against his arm. Jouji glanced over at her.
"Are you tired, hime? Would you like to ride?" The samurai raised a hand to pat the saddle of his mount. Ittosai regarded it coldly before moving to pick her up without a word. Sayori squeaked, her arms wrapping automatically around Ittosai's neck as his arm hooked under her legs. She remembered this feeling. Muneshige had carried her like this that night at the castle. Without even thinking about it she leaned into his warmth. Jouji regarded the two of them scornfully.
"It probably isn't a good idea to be so familiar with the princess. Even if you claim to know her like you do, public displays will only weaken her honor." He spoke tightly, as if trying to hold himself back. Sayori looked between them, her fingertips sliding against the back of Ittosai's neck to calm him.
"If she is tired it would be neglectful of me to help her. Besides, I can hold onto her much better like this than you can on that saddle." The blond spoke firmly, as if he would not broach a rebuttal. Jouji seemed about to respond, but only lapsed into silence. And so the three of them made their way back to Mochizuki Castle.


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Thursday, October 7, 2010
What I've Learned Watching Horrible Horror Movies
-If you are in a graveyard, by all means, go to the creepiest, worst lit and most decrepit part of it to get drunk and mock the dead.
-If you're on vacation in a strange land and you see a creepy looking artifact, a book bound in human skin or a sacred object the locals fear/worship, be sure to stick it in your pocket and take it home. Oh, and give it to your kids, if you think they might like playing with it.
-Nothing bad ever happens to pretty girls.
-Assume that your loved one - who has been bitten by flesh-eating zombies - is going to be just fine and you should continue to spend time with them.
-If you inherit a mortuary, remote rural motel, or a farm with a questionable number of outbuildings from a distant relative you've never heard of, be sure to move right in.
-Uninhabited islands, defunct summer camps, and abandoned psychiatric facilities are great places to hang out with your friends!!
-And when you're having a kegger in said islands/camps/nut wards, and your friend comes running out of the woods gibbering hysterically about a monster- ignore them. It's a party! You're there to have fun!
-Oh, and be sure to sneak off and behave in a giddy, sexually irresponsible manner. There's no way the killer will use you to demonstrate a moral lesson.
-If you are a lovable sidekick to Casper Van Dien, Bill Paxton, Gabriel Byrne, Coren Nemec or Bruce Boxleitner, assume that you will be just fine. There's no way you'll be the first death that serves exposition purposes.
-Also if you see Lance Henriksen anywhere in the vicinity… see the above.
Please post your favorite terrible horror movies and the lessons you've learned from them here:
5 comments:
- Natalie said...
If you're driving alone or with friends in the middle of nowhere (especially in the middle of the night) always leave your cell phone at home or let your battery run down. You won't need it so why bother bringing it?
If your car breaks down on that drive, be sure to get out of your car and go off walking alone to find help. And there will be help, in the form of a kind, generous, misunderstood man who's missing a limb or an eye.
And don't worry, the run-down garage will get that obscure replacement part for your broken vehicle installed by the end of the day so you don't need to worry about getting a room at that creepy motel down the road.
- October 7, 2010 at 9:51 PM
- Gigi's Consignment Closet said...
Always where the most inappropriate shoes when walking through fog covered, creepy, abandoned places.
If you hear a creepy scary sound run towards it, not away.
Always drop and/or lose flashlight, cell phone, or gun in the first 15 minutes.
- October 8, 2010 at 6:26 AM
- Sharon S. said...
If you are in a boat and something knocks from underneath, make sure you lean way over the edge of the boat to get a better look.
- October 8, 2010 at 6:33 AM
- unseelieme said...
If you see a large dog with foam dripping from its mouth, for god's sake walk up and pet it. I'm sure it just ate some soap and needs comfort.
If your friend disappears mysteriously, split up to find them.
You can cover more ground that way.
That redneck with the wrecker that just happened to come along after your tire mysteriously blew? Totally innocent. Go home with him to use his phone.
That scary monster? Go immediately to its den/nest/breeding area to check it out. You'll be perfectly safe.
When being chased by mutant spiders, clowns, bees, bugs, tomatoes, etc. run slow enough so that they can keep up.
And my last... meteorites seen falling to earth should be hunted down immediately. Anything odd found at the crash site should be assumed to be harmless. In fact if its small and furry, it might be some new kind of chibi-pet. Bring it home.
- October 8, 2010 at 9:33 AM
- bookdout said...
Always head to the basement to investigate that strange noise - after all ist just a small dark room with only one way in and out.
Throw a party in an old creepy cemetary - ignore the recent spate of reopened graves - fill them with ice for drink storage
A wheat field is a harmless place to play and don't worry that scarecrow is not really watching you.
- October 10, 2010 at 7:32 PM
Who the HELL Do We Think We Are?
Current roster: Mario Acevedo, Michele Bardsley, Sonya Bateman, Dakota Cassidy, Carolyn Crane, Molly Harper, Kevin Hearne, Mark Henry, Stacia Kane, Jackie Kessler, J.F. Lewis, Daniel Marks, Richelle Mead, Kelly Meding, Allison Pang, Nicole Peeler, Kat Richardson, Michelle Rowen, Diana Rowland, Jeanne C. Stein, K.A. Stewart, Anton Strout, and Jaye Wells


text:
Event celebrates cultures of many countries.
The concept is a free college education for those who can do the work.
Study abroad program going well at Michigan.
State panel to look at cutting requirements.
Wayne Trail Elementary students ready for the Red Planet.
Classes offered at no cost to students.
Patricia Polacco's books celebrate differences.
School accused of not doing enough to help.
$5,000 awards can be renewed for a 2nd year at local colleges.
It is No. 19 in Ohio, reaches No. 490 nationally.


text:
The Shindewadi Metropolitan Magistrate's Court in Dadar convicted two doctors last Friday for violating the law that prohibits tests for determining the sex of an unborn child and advertising a 'treatment' for those who wanted a son. The doctors were sentenced to three years in prison.
The Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Test (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act (2003) prohibits the advertising of pre-conception and pre-natal determination of sex.
According to the prosecution, Aurangabad-based homoeopath Chhaya Tated (42) gave the advertisement in a magazine in 2004. She used to visit Shree Maternity and Nursing Home in Dadar, owned by Dr Shubangi Adkar (62), twice a month.
"We don't know how many tests they conducted as they didn't maintain records. It was the advertisement that helped us nab them," said Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) prosecutor Zarir Engineer.
A complaint was filed against the duo by the BMC G/North Ward office after an inspection at the maternity home following the appearance of the advertisement. The complaint said the nursing home was neither registered nor was there the mandatory board warning against pre-natal sex determination.
"During the trial, Tated defended herself. She said the advertisement's wording was due to a miscommunication between her and the person who took down the text," said Engineer. Tated claimed she used the word 'mool' (child), but the person taking it down wrote 'mulga' (boy). "Tated said she issued a differently-worded advertisement in December 2004," said Engineer.
"The magistrate said the correction was done only to protect herself," said Engineer.
Adkar claimed she had nothing to do with the tests and that Tated only used to visit her nursing home. "The court held that Adkar had good relations with Tated and hence her involvement could not be ruled out," said Engineer.
Tated and Adkar will not go to jail immediately. Their bail stands as they have challenged their convictions in the Sessions Court. "The case will be heard on January 25, 2010," said Engineer.


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text:
Holiday at the Burrow
Harry stared at the sun's reflection on the upper windows of the Burrow. Flat on his back on the grass, he lounged in the shade of the Weasley's overgrown garden. Beside him lay his neglected book bag holding summer holiday homework he had been attempting to work on with Ron before his best mate had been called inside by Mrs. Weasley. The air was muggy and thick with an accumulation of darkening clouds moving on the horizon carrying the threat of rain. However, over the Burrow the sun was still strong and penetrating, and beads of perspiration lined Harry's hairline.
Closing his eyes, he slipped into a lazy doze while shading his face with the crook of his arm. It was the last few days of vacation and, with all that had been going on since Harry had left Privet Drive, he needed a few minutes of quiet. More importantly, a moment where he didn't have to act like everything was fine, like he hadn't lost the most important person in his world.
With the squeak of hinges on the kitchen door, the soft padding of bare feet approached on parched, trodden grass. A shadow fell over Harry where he lay.
"I'll finish it later, Hermione," he muttered without opening his eyes.
"Procrastination never gets you anywhere, Potter."
Harry looked up at the sound of, not Hermione, but of Ginny and her best Professor McGonagall impression. She stood over him with a smirk, a bowl of fresh cherries in one hand and a cold glass of pumpkin juice in the other.
"Hungry?" she asked, plopping down cross-legged beside him. "Mum thought you might be."
Harry turned on his side, propped himself up on an elbow, and dug into the fresh fruit gratefully. "Where's Ron?" he asked.
Ginny shrugged carelessly and helped herself to a cherry. "
Ready for O.W.L's this year?" Harry made conversation.
With a sarcastic grunt, Ginny spit a cherry pit into the hedge. "Were you?" she countered. "I am ready for Quidditch though. Think you can manage to keep your broom out of the dungeons this year?" She gave Harry a mocking side-long glance.
"Dunno...think you can catch the snitch in time for Christmas Holidays?" He got a cherry pit in the face for his remark, a well-aimed shot to the forehead which left a smudge.
"All right wiseass, but I won't be catching any snitches this year. That's your job. When you're not in the hospital wing. I'm a fair better seeker than Malfoy at least."
"Who isn't?"
They continued to rail on Malfoy, the Slytherins, and all poor Quidditch players in general while depleting the bowl of cherries. A competition arose on who could flick the most pits into a garden gnome hole under a nearby shrub. Five points if they made it in, ten if they hit the occupant inside. The perturbed gnome popped out periodically to shake his angry fist at them, tossing the offending pits out of its hole with a flourish.
"Okay big shot," Ginny challenged before finishing off the last of Harry's pumpkin juice and getting to her feet. "We know how well you can catch a snitch."
"Don't forget my excellent pit chucking skills."
"Yes, but can you Keep against my Quaffles?"
"Can you throw a Quaffle?"
"Shut up and get your broom." Ginny led the way to the shed, and after some digging, they procured their brooms and a well-worn rubber ball the Weasley's used for practice. As Ginny reemerged into the sunlight, shaking spiders from her hair, Harry smiled. He was instantly reminded of Dumbledore and their spidery conversation in the shed on the day he arrived at the Burrow.
"What?" Ginny looked at his amused expression warily.
"Nothing, let's go." He took off on his Firebolt and fought the temptation to push it to top speed. Harry relished the freedom to fly as much as he wanted while staying at the Burrow. After several months of banishment followed by weeks of living in muggle constraints at the Dursly's, it was a welcome change.
Once on the practice field, Harry turned in the air and tossed Ginny the ball. "Let's see what you can do."
They flew back and forth, playing catch with the Quaffle. Ginny aimed at make-believe goals on either side of Harry, and he found himself chasing the ball a lot more than he had expected. Ginny was an excellent chaser.
"Oi! You couldn't wait for me to play?" Ron suddenly appeared through the trees on his new Cleansweep.
"What happened to you?" Harry asked.
"Mum," he explained with a scowl. "She cornered me, said I needed a trim." He ran a hand through his unruly red hair. "How's it look?" he asked warily.
"Dashing," Ginny cut in. "Let's play. Ron take Harry's spot as Keeper. Harry, you and I can take turns tossing. That is if you can get it." She flew down field with the ball as Ron took his place, ready to prevent her from scoring. As they each took their shots, Ron would retrieve it and throw it back to the center of the field where Harry and Ginny fought to be the first to catch it and score.
"It's raining," Harry observed, looking up at the darkening sky as the first drops began to fall. The glance lost him the ball as Ginny flew near and deftly dislodged it from his loose grip.
"So," she shrugged. "You've played in worse."
They kept on as the rain grew heavier, drenching their light clothing to the skin. Harry regretted being underage, he could have used a little magic to help him keep the water off of his glasses. Ginny was out-scoring him two-to-one.
Ron had the Quaffle, ready to make a toss. Harry and Ginny converged in the middle of the soggy field, their eyes on the ball. With the throw they surged upward to meet it in the air. The rubber was slick with rain and hard to hold on to. Harry touched it first but couldn't get a good grip. Ginny grappled for it, elbowing Harry out of the way and tucking it securely under her arm. Harry rammed into her from the side, attempting to dislodge the ball from her grasp. Losing altitude, they fought over possession, coming within only a few feet to the ground before Harry was knocked off his broom into the mud. He held on and dragged Ginny down with him.
"Harry James!" She shrieked with a face full of splattered mud. "Whatever happened to being a gentleman?"
"Hey!" Ron flew down, dismounting from his broom and slipping in the muck before falling on his back with a splash. The two drenched Chasers looked up as he fell, ceasing their competitive brawl to laugh at Ron's expense. The sight of the three of them looking like half-drowned rats in a sewer brought the game to an end with exhausted amusement.
They trudged back to the broom shed and put away their brooms before returning to the house. A low rumble of distant thunder followed them as they stepped into the cool kitchen.
"Ginevra!" Mrs. Weasley arrived from the sitting room. "I just washed this floor! What have you been doing?"
"Playing Quidditch."
"There are muddy footprints all over. Ronald you're dripping on the rug."
"Ooh, what iz zat 'orrible smell?" Fleur appeared on the stairs holding her delicate nose.
"Maybe it's all the phlegm," Ginny muttered.
"Move, all of you," Mrs. Weasley commanded shrilly. "Boys, go clean up in the mud room. Ginny, upstairs with me for a bath."
"Mum, I can handle that myself, thanks." Ginny gritted her teeth and stomped up the stairs to the second floor followed by Molly cleaning the dirty footprints off the floor with her wand.
"French girlz would never get so dirty."
Ron and Harry hurried off to the mud room to avoid a lesson in French etiquette from Fleur. With difficulty, Harry removed his soggy trainers and peeled off his dripping socks. Lightning flashed through the lone window above the basin, filling the low-lit room with an electric glow.
"'Spose it's good practice tho', playing in the rain," Ron commented while running warm water in the sink and adding soap. "We'll get plenty wet in it at this year's matches. If I get on the team again," he added despondently.
"You will," Harry muttered, struggling to pull off his wet t-shirt and knocking his glasses askew.
"Mum cut it too short on the sides again." Ron frowned into the cracked mirror hanging beside the coat rack. "You sure it looks okay? Do my ears stick out?"
"Don't they always?"
The door swung open and Hermione walked in carrying a pile of clean clothes.
"Sorry, Harry," she said. "Ron, your Mom told me to bring you both these." She handed over the fresh clothes. "You two are more of a mess than Ginny. What were you doing? I thought you were working on homework?"
Harry swore suddenly, running out of the room and back into the sopping yard to where the book bags still lay in the garden soaked with rain.
The sitting room was littered with open textbooks and parchment set out to dry. Mrs. Weasley went around with her wand using a drying spell on the worst of it. Harry watched her work, feeling slightly guilty for his negligence.
"Checkmate," Ron pointed out triumphantly.
Harry looked back at the game board and his injured and groaning chess pieces. He hadn't really been concentrating on strategy so was not too upset at the loss. Conceding defeat, he excused himself to go into the kitchen. Rain continued to patter against the windows. The Burrow was full of chatter with the Weasleys, Harry, Hermione, and Fleur all there. Fred and George were even home from London for the evening. Since the next day was the last of the summer holidays, they had joined the rest of the family to enjoy a late meal one last time before the start of school.
"Seems strange, us not going to meet the train with you lot," George commented from the table where Bill and Fleur were deep into wedding plans with Mr. and Mrs. Weasley.
"Yeah, bet ol' Filtchy won't know what to do without us," Fred grinned.
"I bet your presence will be known quite enough with all the merchandise you've sold to so many Hogwarts students." Mrs. Weasley gave her sons a disapproving lift of the eyebrows.
"Speaking of which," Fred turned to Harry. "We've been working on something new, care to advertise?"
"What?" Harry asked warily.
"It's a bone mender. Strictly for small sprains and such, not quite up to St. Mungos standards but tastes a great deal better than Skelegrow. I'm sure you'll agree. If you could just take a swig the next time you come in contact with a rogue bludger—"
"Or a dementor—"
"Or any such troubles on the Quidditch pitch—"
"We'd greatly appreciate the publicity."
"It's nice to see you put some energy into something useful," Mrs. Weasley said approvingly.
"Dead useful." George nodded.
"No more detentions for between-lesson duels gone awry," Fred agreed.
Harry returned to the sitting room and took a comfortable chair by the window. The air was sticky and dense with humidity. The patter of rain on the sill of the partially open window lifted the heat in the small room. Ginny sat opposite, curled in a chair writing a letter.
"I'd like to know how they tested it," she said without looking up. Harry looked at her confused until she explained. "Fred and George, they always test new product on themselves. I'd like to know who sprained whose bones to try and mend them."
"Oh," Harry laughed, "yeah, me too."
"Why not?" Ron argued from the couch, attempting to reach for a writing tablet in Hermione held out of his reach.
"No, Ronald," she insisted while growing red in the face.
"Come on, why can't I read it?"
"Don't be so nosy, Ron," Ginny snapped. "Hermione can write to whoever she wants."
"It's not a letter, it's— it's nothing," Hermione stammered.
"Then why can't I read it?"
Her jaw stiffened as she grew defiant with embarrassment. "Because it's personal." She jumped up from the couch and ran for the stairs.
"Personal," Ron snorted.
"You're such a prat." Ginny scowled at him.
"What's she got to be personal about?"
"A great deal more than you do," she snapped before returning to her letter.
Ron mumbled something about just being curious and stalked into the kitchen going off about over-sensitive females.
"Thank you, Harry," Ginny said fiercely.
"For what?"
"Thank you for knowing how to be a gentleman, unlike some people."
Harry smiled faintly. "I thought I wasn't a gentleman."
"That was before." Ginny thought about it, placing her quill to her chin. "It's okay not to be a gentleman playing Quidditch."
Harry raised his eyebrows in amusement.
"Unless I'm losing," she added.
"Of course."
Hermione returned downstairs free of her writing tablet. She sat down in a huff on the other side of Harry.
She brushed her frizzy hair out of her face in frustration. "Ginny, I hid my tablet in your underwear drawer. I would hope Ron won't go looking in there."
"He better not."
Harry eyed Hermione curiously.
"It's nothing." She crossed her arms defiantly.
Chairs scrapped the floorboards in the kitchen as the twins got ready to leave for London. The family converged in the sitting room to bid them goodnight.
"Take care, Harry." Fred shook his hand. "Don't forget, if you break any bones…"
"We'll send you a sample just in case," George nodded.
They disappeared into the rainy mist before apparating some distance from the house.
"Well, I'm beat." Arthur Weasley yawned. "I think I'll turn in. Molly?"
"Don't know that any of us will sleep much in this heat."
"Well, it's like I've been telling you, dear. If you would only let me try a few spells I think I can get that muggle contraption I've got out in the shed to work. It's called an air-cold-ditioner. Isn't that right, Harry?"
"What? Oh…right."
"It'll cool the whole house down like it was Christmas in the summer!"
"No Arthur, not another word about it," Molly snapped at her husband then turned to the others. "Don't stay up too late now, busy day tomorrow. Good night!"
Dreaming, Harry found himself in the garden at the Burrow. It was raining, not drops of water but cherry pits which fell with a musical ping on the ground, reverberating against the hollow insides of unused flower pots and dented tin water pails. Harry stood in the middle of the garden getting hit with the falling pellets when he realized that they weren't falling from the sky but were being thrown over the hedge by dozens of angry garden gnomes. Harry picked up a handful of pits and prepared to throw them back in defense when Ginny appeared beside him.
"Don't be a prat, Harry," she said. "Hermione can write to garden gnomes if she wants to. Now get your broom, we're going to London."
"What's in London?" Harry heard himself ask, but Ginny was already in the air flying away into the clouds. Looking down he realized that his broom was in his hand and next thing he knew he was flying over the night-lit buildings of London. Ginny was nowhere in sight. Landing on a deserted muggle street, Harry found himself in front of the Leaky Cauldron as a dark, cloaked figure passed through the door.
"Sirius?" Harry's heart pounded. Hurrying after his godfather, Harry pushed open the door and stepped into a dimly-lit room with stone steps dropping away before him. There in the center was the raised dias. Sirius stood before the archway with his back to Harry. Harry tried to call out to him, tried to stop him from going through to the other side, but no sound would escape his throat. Running, he reached out a desperate hand and touched only air as Sirius stepped through and was gone.
Harry awoke with a start. His forehead was damp with cold sweat. Looking around, he realized it was daylight. There were voices and footsteps on the stairs outside the room.
"Harry?" Hermione knocked before opening his door and sticking her head in. "If you want breakfast you better get up." Then she was gone again, down the stairs followed by Ginny's voice calling to Mrs. Weasley on the landing. Harry lay a moment staring at the back of the door as the last misty traces of his dream faded away. He had dreamed of Sirius many times over the summer, but each time felt like the first and wrenched him to the core. A painful pang of guilt hit him like a blow from a well-aimed bludger. It was supposed to be getting easier, not harder.
"Hey!" Ron hit Harry's door with his fist on his way past. "Food, mate, let's go."
Rolling out of bed, Harry rubbed his tired eyes, found his glasses and reached for his clothes. Forget about Sirius, he told himself. Just…just forget about everything.
In the kitchen Harry found everyone already seated and digging in to Mrs. Weasley's excellent spread of sausage and eggs.
"Tuck in Harry." Mr. Weasley grinned at him from the head of the table. "We've just started. Beautiful day for your last of holiday. The weather has cleared nicely and the rain cooled things down considerably."
Harry glanced up to see Mrs. Weasley looking at him with a searching gaze.
"Feeling all right, Harry?" she asked. "You look pale."
"I'm fine," he insisted, "just tired."
"Well eat up, you'll feel better after a full breakfast."
The food was delicious but it did little to lighten his mood. A sharp headache was building in Harry's temples, and the thought of spending the day packing and cleaning was not appealing. As the table was being cleared away, the mail arrived with an exhausted Errol and a younger, smaller owl; an owl that had been seen often at the Burrow that summer.
"Another letter from Dean, Ginny."
"What could he possibly have to talk about?" Ron scoffed. "You'll see him on the train tomorrow."
"Never you mind." Ginny snatched away her letter and got up from the table. "Don't send off Dean's owl 'til I give him my letter." She dashed upstairs to her room to retrieve it.
Suddenly wanting to be alone, Harry excused himself from the table and also walked upstairs. Passing Ginny's room, he stopped short as she rushed by him on her way back to the kitchen.
"Sorry, Harry." She touched his arm to keep them from colliding before slipping along the wall and disappearing down the staircase. Harry stood outside the open door of her room, standing in the warm ray of light filtering from the opposite window. The glare of the sun fell upon a mirror over her dresser, drawing Harry's eye to a photograph sticking out from the frame. Moving into the room, Harry went for a closer look. It was a comfortable space, clean but not orderly, except for the spare bed where Hermione had been sleeping the past few weeks. That of course was prim and organized from the quilt on the bed to the carefully packed trunk at the foot.
Ginny's bed was unmade, there were clothes hanging on the posts, and a subtle scent of flowers mixed with fresh air and rain. On the walls were tacked little mementos in Gryffindor colors, photos of Ginny and her fellow fifth years, and magazine cut-outs in bright lettering. Arnold the Pygmy Puff lay asleep in a patch of sun on the window sill.
There were several photos attached to the mirror, but the one that caught Harry's attention was one taken at the Quidditch World Cup. It was inside the tent after the match, during the celebration for the winning Irish team. Harry didn't recall the picture ever having been taken, but there he was, standing in the smelly, old tent in front of the bunks with Ron and Hermione on one side of him and Ginny on the other. They had all squeezed in tight to fit in the picture, nearly falling in their attempt to stay on their feet. Harry had his arm draped around Ginny and from the movement in the magical photo they were all laughing.
Harry jumped, turning as Ginny bounded back into the room. "Hey, ah I was just…" Harry stammered blushing and pointing at the picture.
Ginny smiled and sat down at her writing desk under the window. "Do you remember that?"
"Not really," Harry admitted.
"I suppose not." Ginny began opening her letter from Dean. "It was a busy night."
"Yeah." Harry slipped from the room and left her to read in privacy. He returned to Fred and George's room to begin sorting through his trunk but once he got there all he managed to do was toss a few clothes in a pile and slump back on the bed to stare at the ceiling.
He should be happy, he knew. He was going back to school tomorrow. The reign of Umbridge was long past; it would be a better year than the last at least. His lifelong Quidditch ban had been suspended. He had made Captain of the team, he should be thrilled. But the broken record in his mind; the memory of the words replaying over and over: Neither can live while the other survives…The Chosen One, the Chosen One to kill or be killed. It continued to haunt him to distraction. But there was the promise of extra lessons with Dumbledore to look forward to. What he would teach Harry was anyone's guess, but there was hope in a plan.
And then there was Malfoy. He not usually someone Harry cared to give much thought to, but since the trip to Diagon Alley and Malfoy's suspicious actions, Harry kept coming back to it. Part of him just wanted to keep on where he was, to stay at the Burrow and enjoy a continuous summer of lazy afternoons filled with Quidditch matches with Ron and Ginny…
Hedwig flew in the open window and landed on the bed beside Harry, back from a night of hunting. Harry greeted her with an affectionate scratch under the feathers. She hooted dolefully, ready for a long nap. A small, fuzzy bouncy ball careened through the window behind her before hitting the wall and zooming around the ceiling. Hedwig gave Harry a look of disapproval and a desperate plea to rid her of this nuisance. Harry got up and opened the door to the hall.
"Out, Pig," he commanded. "Ron's downstairs."
The tiny, overexcited owl whizzed into the stairwell and disappeared with an excited twitter. Harry looked around the room at his scattered, disheveled possessions and sighed. He might as well get started. "Procrastination never got you anywhere, Potter," he muttered and dropped several books into his open trunk.


text: Since their brilliantly received debut 'Up From Below', it seems as though Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros have experienced a re-birth. Listeners were initially drawn into their happy-go-lucky charm, especially with the like of hit single 'Home'. Second album 'Here' was jam-packed with religious and spiritual references which saw lead singer/songwriter Alex Ebert take on some kind of messiah like figure. This fresh period of their journey has lead Ebert himself to describe their new, self-titled album as 'the rawest, most liberated, most rambunctious stuff we've done.' However, this time it's hard to be sure whether we're all truly convinced… Like 'Here', their new album bares the similar theme of ecstatic joy, not apparent on just one specific track, or even a handful. The entire album is one long festival of happiness (How disgusting – Ed). In many ways you have to wonder whether this is all sincere, but regardless, it's not easy listening to such a one-trick pony of a record. There are a few glimpses of downtime, in particular 'This Life', with even that proving to be lackluster and ordinary. Again, it's hard not to mention the song that arguably created their buzz, 'Home'. It sadly seems as though Edward Sharpe & Co cannot match the roaring success of this single, leaving their third record to feel a little contrived. An even bigger disappointment is how far away they've drifted from their 'Up From Below' sound, a time when they managed to capture real moments of beauty on an album with not a single weak song. The real song highlights are 'Better Days' and 'Let's Get High', the first two tracks on the album. They're both equally as catchy, making them enough to remember without having to persuade the listener. However their nostalgic folk/hippy sound is almost on its last legs, becoming cringe-worthy and artificial, especially as only a small number of new bands can recapture a nostalgic era of music quite the way they could, but sadly it seems as though this gift has been lost somewhere. This release is unfortunately no more than a very slightly polished version of 'Here'. You'd also think with ten plus band members they'd be able to conjure up something fresh and inspiring. It really seems as though Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros have seen 'Better Days' themselves right now. 4/10


text:
Blog Entry# 1782058
Posted: Mar 28 2016 (11:39)
No Responses Yet
Journey: Tue Apr 19, 2016 @ 05:4619032/Yoga Express
Class: Sleeper - SL
Travel: KSG/Kishangarh to ADI/Ahmedabad Junction | 544 km / 1206 km
Entry# 1782058
PNR: 264-xxxxxxx (E-Ticket) | Similar PNRs
Posted Status as of: Mar 28 2016 (11:39)Passenger 1: Waitlist# 5 (Booking Status: W/L 18,RLGN)
Chart NOT Prepared
Please analyze this PNR, and predict the final Charting Status. Thanks.
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Latest Status as of: Apr 19 2016 (23:03)Passenger 1: S7,21 [MB]/Coach Position:16 (Booking Status: W/L 18,RLGN)
Total Fare: 315
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Miracle On The Hudson Survivors Share Their Real Stories After Seeing 'Sully'
The passengers of the 'Miracle on the Hudson' all went through an emotional experience the day Capt. Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger made an emergency landing in the Hudson Bay. Today, passengers are recalling their miraculous experience as they watch the new film 'Sully' starring Tom Hanks. These survivor stories truly show just what a hero Sully is.
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Kansas City police investigating after toddler's death
A 2-year-old girl was found dead from burn-related injuries at an apartment.
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A 2-year-old girl was found dead from burn-related injuries at an apartment.
Fire crews said a passer-by rescued one man, who was transported to the University of Kansas Hospital with possible injuries and smoke inhal…
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Has raised questions about when airports should close runways due to snow or ice.
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The findings could lead to a comprehensive reform bill to be considered in 2016.


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Citi Realigns Institutional and Consumer Banking Tech Control
As co-presidents, Jamie Forese and Manuel Medina-Mora will have immediate technology oversight as part of CEO Michael Corbat's new management structure.
In an internal memo to Citi staff, Corbat says that operations and technology (O&T) for several crucial units will report directly to the new co-presidents, both Citi veterans, to more closely tailor support functions to specific business objectives. Forese currently oversees the bank's institutional arm; Medina-Mora, meanwhile, is in charge of consumer banking as well the bank's presence in Mexico.
Both will closely consult with Citi's head of enterprise O&T, Don Callahan, who remains responsible for shared infrastructure and compliance-related matters.
"This change will better align the priorities and strengthen accountability between our client-facing businesses and their support function as we continue our efforts to become a fully digital bank and improve efficiency through the organization," Corbat says.
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Stonebrook Healthcare Center
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Reviews of Stonebrook Healthcare Center
Angel840334 March 07, 2017
I visited this facility
We had a tour at Stonebrook, and the first thing we noticed upon arriving is that the whole place is spotless. This made us feel this is the right location for our mom. The atmosphere was very cozy and relaxing. There was no tense feeling that we got. The entire staff greeted us with a smile and made eye contact, which even confirmed more that this would be appropriate location. They made us feel comfortable. The whole place was outstanding.
Unsatisfied Client1 January 18, 2016
I am a friend or relative of a resident
My dad was at Stonebrook Healthcare Center for two weeks for his rehab. Overall, the experience was extremely poor. He was not well cared for, not bathed as per schedule, nor fed as well. The care was extremely poor. When my stepmother tried to move him, they told her that he cannot go back to the hospital. The whole thing was a bad experience. It's an older facility and dark but nice.
Christina4 August 10, 2013
I visited this facility
Right now my friend is at Stonebrook and it's a good nursing home. They were great. I love the staff there. I have no complaints about this facility, they are fantastic. The nurses are very friendly and very caring.
caring7324 March 29, 2013
I visited this facility
I visited 5 facilities and the one that I wanted the most for my mother was Stonebrook. It was excellent and I would give it a 5-star rating for everything. But I couldn't get her in there. Instead, I opted for a facility that is closer to my home, so it's easier for me to go there everyday.
EastBayGCM July 28, 2011
I visited this facility
I've had a lot of experience with Stonebrook Convalescent, and I really, really like it. It's an excellent skilled nursing facility. It's especially good for anyone going for rehab. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy are all excellent.
It's not a fancy facility. It's older and plain. But it's clean, light-filled, and airy. And it's well kept up. They do a nice job of decorating for the holidays, too.
Meals, including vegetarian meals, are good. The entire staff is knowledgeable, attentive, involved. The docs pay close attention. And the patients do well: They progress and go home.
The only downsides: It's hard to get in, and parking is a nightmare.
dolores murphy-1 May 21, 2008
My loved one stayed here
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About Stonebrook Healthcare Center
Stonebrook Healthcare Center is a nursing home in Concord, CA that provides patients with skilled nursing care as well as private or shared accommodations. Contact Stonebrook Healthcare Center for more details on housing, services, and rates.
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- Garden And Patio
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- English
- Medicare Provider Number 555421
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Azalea Estates of Gonzales
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Reviews of Azalea Estates of Gonzales
Pat400554 January 07, 2017
I visited this facility
The rooms at Azalea Estates of Gonzales were tiny. You could barely turn around in them. The staff seemed to be friendly. When I got there, they were having a sing-along thing. The residents seemed very happy. It was a very nice and very clean place; it didn't have the smell. The studio room was very small. If you were a real social person that you wouldn't stay in your room a lot, it would be a good place to go, and it looked like they had a bunch of activities, too.
sherri1981 November 23, 2016
I am a friend or relative of a current/past resident
My mother has been there 2 years and we all love it there. It is safe and the staff treat all of us like family. The director and assistant director, Lisa & Cecelia are wonderful and only hire staff that are caring and compassionate. It has been a life saver to my family. I have and will continue to spread the news about Azalea being so good so that other families can have the secure feeling that their loved one is being taken care of.
KSpachek November 22, 2016
I am a friend or relative of a current/past resident
We moved our mother to Azalea in December 2015. She just passed away in November of this year. Those 11 months were wonderful. Lisa and her staff did such a wonderful job of taking care of our mom. As her health was declining, the staff were so kind, supportive, and helpful. They went above and beyond anything we ever would've expected. Mom had so much fun there doing all of their activities. She loved being involved. We highly recommend Azalea. You will not be disappointed!
Mary458061 September 30, 2016
I visited this facility
Azalea Estates of Gonzales is local and very close to me. They have exercise, Bingo, and dancing, and they provide shuttle to and from shopping and doctors' appointments. They were very informative, and I had specific questions about progression into a different level, but they didn't have that available. It had a good feeling and different groups of people were sitting and talking or drinking a little tea; some were playing cards, and some were reading, but it looked like everybody was up and about and socializing.
Sam & Linda M October 15, 2015
I am a friend or relative of resident
My mother-in-law moved into Azalea Estates almost a year ago. After living with me & my husband for a year & half, she needed more care than we could provide. We toured several facilities before making the decision to move her into Azalea Estates. We struggled with the decision to move her from our home, but felt confident that it was the right choice. How true that is...Azalea Estates has been an absolute blessing for her and our family! Lisa and the staff take a personal interest in both the residents and their family members to make sure everyone feels at home! They show a genuine affection and treat others as family. My mother-in-law is much more socially engaged and has developed friendships with the staff and other residents. If you are looking for a professional, caring home-like setting where you can trust that your loved ones best interest is being considered, make a visit to Azalea Estates.
TommyB. September 28, 2015
I am a friend or relative of resident
My elderly mother moved into Azalea Estates about 6 months ago. The staff is wonderful and has met all of her needs as well as helping our family cope with the day to day care that mom needs. The meals are also very good. We get to select her menu each week. This takes the stress away from mom in having to decide what she wants to eat each day. The staff keep her apartment very clean, up-to-date and provide maintenance as needed. Daily activities keeps them active. Several times a week there is music, exercise, counseling & church services and so many I cannot remember them all. Mom's health has actually improved since she has lived at Azalea. Our family feels very secure knowing that mom lives at Azalea Estates of Gonzales.
MBobb September 23, 2015
I am a friend or relative of resident
My mother has been a resident of Azalea Estates in Gonzales for almost exactly a year. She LOVES it there, and considers it her home. I was able to help my sister pick out this facility when I was visiting Louisiana last October (2014). I met the staff and was very impressed. In February 2015, I was able to visit Louisiana again, and I got to spend a couple of weeks seeing my mother almost every day. Again, I was super impressed with all the staff. The place is clean, neat, and very hospitable. There are always activities for mom. She has made several good friends there, and actually has a "best" friend. They are inseparable. This facility has been a godsend to our family. I highly recommend them to anyone.
Jenny Roberts September 22, 2015
I am a friend or relative of resident
My Grandma moved to Azalea last year. She has Alzheimer's and I know she is really taken care of there and is actually happy. There are SO many activities they offer there and the staff there are superb. My Grandma always tells me the food is wonderful there and she feels safe and happy there. she has never once complained to me, and I call her once every 4-5 days. In fact, she usually is busy with a friend or doing something fun there when I call. I've even experienced a nurse being in the room when I call. That's great to know she is always being checked on. It is such a relief to know that being far away, I know that she is taken care of, has made friends, and has lots to do and the staff really care. I'm a CNA and have had experienced horrible places, and I can tell you that Azalea is the exact opposite. I would highly recommend Azalea Estates for anyone who is looking for care for their loved one. I even follow them on Facebook and frequently see pictures of my Grandma having a great time Wii bowling, dancing, dressed up at parties, and luncheons, etc. HOW GREAT!!!!!!!!
Sherri Frey Simpson September 19, 2015
I am a friend or relative of resident
My mother moved there Feb 2015 and from the first day there, she has loved it. She said the staff are like family. They are very nice and caring to all the residents. The food is delicious. The activities are all fun and she looks forward to them.
It was the best decision that my brother and I could have ever made to place mom there. It is safe, clean and very Christian based. The staff live this mission and you can feel the genuine love for what they do, the minute you walk into Azalea.
Caring112358150 August 31, 2015
I am a friend or relative of a resident
I am very happy with Azalea Estates of Gonzales for my mom. The staff, place, and the people are all wonderful. When I walked through the door and saw the community, I knew that this would be the place that my mom would be happy. Her room was very spacious. I got her a room that has a separate living room and bedroom area, and she is very happy with it. The residents seemed to get all involved with activities, and they seemed to have a good time. They have people come in and entertain the residents. They have a very nice and comfortable atmosphere. The food is wonderful. It's all served restaurant style where they serve everything individually. It's almost like an elegant restaurant. There's nothing that I don't like about it.
Steve45 December 09, 2014
I visited this facility
I went to one facility here in Gonzales, and it was nice. It turns out I knew the lady that was running Azalea Estates. This was the one that I didn't care for in regard that it was $2600 bucks a month -- which wouldn't be all that bad --but everything else is ala carte. It felt like the $2600 gets yourself in the door, and if you want a bath that's extra. I wasn't too impressed with all that. This can run up a pretty high bill.
The lady in-charge's name is Lowena. We went to visit and check it out, and as it turns out, I knew her husband who was in the National Guard. We had a nice visit and nice chat. Their units start out something in the neighborhood about $2600, and then all these other little charges that will occur based on what you have done. It's a very nice facility, it's very clean, and it didn't have smell of Lysol. The facility was very nice, and the people were very nice. The residents of course would change, but the ones that were there were very nice.
Safta November 13, 2014
I am a friend or relative of a resident
My mother lives at Azelea Estates; it is a fantastic, caring, homelike facility. Each resident is known by name. There are so many activities to keep the residents entertained and busy. My mom loves to read and says she has no time to read, she's so busy :) The staff is friendly and energetic. The rooms are cleaned and laundry washed weekly. Three meals a day! What more could I ask for? Perhaps to move in? :) I love Azelea!
reedeejen November 13, 2014
I visited this facility
Azalea Estates in Gonzales truly is a caring facility. Azalea has the best interest of the residents at heart. Their decision processes are made for each persons needs whether physical, emotional, religious and educational and welfare.
The staff at Azalea working together are hands on , compassionate and patient care givers. They strive to give each resident personal individual attention to encourage a resident's growth in self esteem, self worth to become a part of the assisted living community. Self esteem , self respect is extended to the residents. Residents respond by respecting themselves and each other creating a harmonious atmosphere for living together.
Extending a well rounded balance of resident participation , dining out, attending social and civic affairs, church and religious activities are part of caring thoughtfully and carefully for the residents entertainment and spiritual welfare. The staff responsibly and actively coordinates all activities.
Azalea Estates Gonzales truly is a caring facility in words and action.
Tari Allen November 13, 2014
I am a friend or relative of resident
My father and I toured Azalea Estates of Gonzales and immediately fell in love with the place and the staff. My dad has been there for five months and is very happy and active. We have found a place where he can have his independence and receive assistance when he needs it. The staff is very knowledgable and helpful in dealing with the everyday issues of their residents. It is amazing how much help they have been to both my father and myself. The care given to each resident is excellent and given through a heart of love. Each resident is treated with the love and respect they deserve. Azalea Estates of Gonzales has truly been a blessing in our lives!
Vickie5 June 19, 2014
I visited this facility
I have my parents on a waiting list at Azalea Estates. We chose it because it is not far from our home. I know other friends and relatives that use the facility, and they are very pleased with it. The grounds are very well groomed, and it looks like a country atmosphere. It is in the rural area, and it very peaceful and quiet. Everything is well kept, and that means a lot because it feels like home. The staff is very helpful. They are very educated in what they do, and I am very pleased with that, too. The dining room is fine and nice. They seem to run a tight ship there, and it seems to be appealing. It is clean, neat, and organized. The apartments are excellent. We checked the one-bed apartment, and it was nice. The main thing that impressed me was that everything was clean. They look like they have a lot of activities for the people there. I can't specifically name them, but I remember them doing things when we were there.
Caring78051250 February 24, 2014
I visited this facility
I like Azalea Estates of Gonzales when I was looking for a facility for my brother. The staff that assisted me was very good. Their rooms are very nice and it would have been very accommodating for my brother's needs. They would have been able to offer my brother some physical therapy with his legs because he definitely needs that. They also have some types of mental stimulation activities.
Bourque June 10, 2013
I am a friend or relative of resident
My mom has been a resident for over five years and we are very pleased with the facility, the people and the whole experience. Thank God for Azelea Estates.
friendlyhelper03 December 04, 2012
I visited this facility
My experience with touring Azalea Estates of Gonzales was very pleasant. It was very welcoming in my opinion. The staff that we interacted with there was very friendly and helpful. They were always ready to answer any question we had as well as address any concerns we may have had. The apartments were a reasonable size and didn't seem to me to be too small or crowded. They provide a safe, stable, helpful, active place for your loved ones. I really like that each month they have different activities for the residents to do. It seemed to me that they gave them lots of choices of activities they could do throughout each day. Another thing that I thought was great was the fact that during the week they do provide their members with what they call courtesy transportation to help them get to and from doctor's appointments. I think that anyone that is looking for as assisted living/retirement home in the Gonzales area, should definitely look at Azalea Estates of Gonzales.
murmanx15 July 31, 2012
I am a friend or relative of a resident
Hello. The fun and caring employees at The Azalea Estates retirement/assisted living community in Gonzales, LA makes living for those in need of assistance a true blessing. My mother-in-law loves her apartment, her assistant companions, and the other residents. The facility is always clean and there are always daily activities & special events to attent as well as church services. Security living, delicious meals (either in the large dining room or occasionally out to a restaurant), exercise classes daily, crafts, games to play, library, maid service, beauty salon,....etc. and much love and smiles for the residents and family members when we visit often. Just a beautiful & well kept community for which we are so happy to have found for my mother-in-law. She loves living at the Azalea Estates!
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From Azalea Estates of Gonzales
Azalea Estates is Gonzales's finest Assisted Living and Retirement Community situated on 5 acres located on S. Purpera Avenue just off of Hwy 30 and I-10. We have 60 private suites with a choice from studios to 1 bedroom or 1 bedroom deluxe.
Providing the care and services that helps seniors stay active and independent in a homelike, residential settings the mission Azalea Estates is dedicated to. In partnership with family and loved ones, we are committed to promoting the freedom of choice, protecting the privacy, ensuring the dignity, and providing for the safety for each of our residents. Most importantly, this overall philosophy of caring is whole-personal oriented, taking into consideration all physical, mental, social, and spiritual needs
- Situated on 5 landscaped acres
- Assistance with activities of daily living as needed
- Structured on one level - no elevators or stairs
- Utilities (excluding telephone) and basic cable included in monthly rent No long-term financial obligation
- Small pets welcome
- Daily exercise classes
- Private and secure medication monitoring system
- 3 full meals offered daily with menu selections, served restaurant-style
- Designated area for private dining/parties; in-house catering available
- Easy and safe access showers with grab bars
- Courtesy transportation Monday - Friday for local doctors visits
- Private suites with a choice of 3 floor plans; all with private bath, kitchen/kitchenette, thermostat, and closet space.
- Screened porch for gathering and relaxation
- Library with cds, tapes and large print books
- State-of-the-art emergency response system with dual access, emergency response system: pull cord and personal pendant
Azalea Estates of Gonzales was designed, developed and is still owned and managed by the original owners with over 75 years of combined senior living experience. Azalea Estates was built with their own families and friends in mind. No other senior community can compare to the lifestyle, features, amenities and outstanding value that Azalea Estates offers each resident. We invite you to come and experience our Community.
*Rates subject to change at any time. Level of care not included.
Features of Azalea Estates of Gonzales
- Minimum Rate $2250/month
Dining options
- In Room Kitchenette
- Room Service For Meals
- Beauty Barber Shop
- Computer Room
- Resident Transportation
- Garden And Patio
- Resident Parking
Cleaning services
- Laundry For Clothing
Technology and entertainment
- Cable In Rooms
Guest services
- Guests At Mealtime
- Overnight Guests
- Diabetic
- Kosher
- Low Fat
- Low Salt
- Renal
- Vegetarian
- English
- State Licenses 11644
Location of Azalea Estates of Gonzales
Senior Living Nearby
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