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Monday, March 2, 2009
Introducing Positivity Week
My friends, I have two words for you: it's on.
Let's face it. This winter is feeling a little bleak. We could all use some more kittens and rainbows in our lives. Also puppies.
Everyone is here because of one reason and one reason only: we love books. We love the heck out of them. And last time I checked: they're still here.
Um, right? They are? Yes. Okay. Whew.
So to kick off positivity week, I would like to devote this post to an ode to you.
Yes, you.
I am so incredibly thankful for the people who read and comment on this blog! Honestly, when I started this thingamajig I had no idea what to expect. These queries poured into my office and I sometimes stared at them thinking...... who are these people?
Well, now I know: You all are smart, intelligent, lively, funny, hardworking, supportive, caring, and if I may say so, you have been looking quite dashing lately.
Most importantly: Anyone who writes has my undying admiration. Writing is HARD. It's not hard like dig a ten foot trench with a plastic spoon hard, but still, it's HARD. It takes concentration, time, patience, and a whole lot of delayed gratification. There are things that are more fun to do than write a novel, like going to Disneyland or watching Mad Men or eating bacon (or all three at once -- basically how I envision heaven), but you put those things off and stare at your notepad or computer and put words down. You're making something.
And many of you have written novels!! Do you know how hard it is to write a freaking novel?! So many people say they're going to write a novel someday and never do it. Many of you have done it. It's an incredible accomplishment. It doesn't matter how many people read it: whether it's one person or a million it's something that should be a source of immense pride.
Even if I sometimes feel like the Angel of Death when I'm answering queries, I hope you know that I am very thankful for the people who query me and I don't take it at all lightly that people are putting themselves out there with their life's work. I even (usually) get a kick out of the people who send me angry e-mails accusing me and my generation of being vain and vapid and everything that's wrong with literature. Hey, buddy, my generation HAS our depression. We're building character in spades. You got nothin' on us anymore.
So check that negativity at the door. We're getting positive, people.
191 comments:
- MzMannerz said...
LOL! I didn't find you overly negative, but am nonetheless looking forward to puppy/kitten/rainbow week. :)
- March 2, 2009 at 1:08 PM
- Vegas Linda Lou said...
Just remember, it's always darkest right before it turns pitch black.
- March 2, 2009 at 1:12 PM
- Kat Mayo said...
Put me down for kittens!
- March 2, 2009 at 1:14 PM
Last week my company decided it need to lay a bunch of people off. We were asked to take the day off and only come in for our thirty minute meeting. At this meeting we would learn if we would stay or go. It was pouring down rain on the day of my meeting but as I was nearing my workplace a huge rainbow appeared over the building. My meeting lasted 10 minutes. I get to keep my job which mean I get to keep writing. Wahoo! I love rainbows. Bring em on!
- March 2, 2009 at 1:19 PM
- Scott said...
You might be the angel of death, but we all think of you as a kinder, gentler angel of death ... like that Andrew dude on Touched by an Angel.
- March 2, 2009 at 1:22 PM
- Kate Levin said...
This positivity kick-off post rocks. I'm still laughing at, I mean with, 'my friend' John. What a good way to start the week.
- March 2, 2009 at 1:26 PM
- Jo said...
Personally I like the fact that you lay it on the line and don't mince words, but I like the happy-go-lucky, thankful Mr. Bransford too. Thanks for remarking that we writers should feel a sense of achievement.
Re- the process of writing. For me, at least, it is exactly like digging a deep, perfectly rectangular trench with a small plastic spoon.
- March 2, 2009 at 1:26 PM
- Heidi the Hick said...
Yeah! Kermit the Frog! Banjo!
I feel pretty okay right now. Thanks Nathan!
- March 2, 2009 at 1:29 PM
- Anita said...
A piece of positive: My hometown newspaper STARTED a book recommendation column this year (I'm the writer)...and it's a recommendation, not a review (no stodgy references to weak characters and such, because I only write about books I LIKE). Also, I went to a fab book signing party last week for Jamie Ford (great debut author) and will go to another booksigning for Lisa Lutz this month (she's great, too). Yay books!
- March 2, 2009 at 1:30 PM
- Melissa said...
Wow, I still remember every word of that song. Every single word. Love it.
- March 2, 2009 at 1:30 PM
- Kimberly J. Smith said...
Can I tell you how much I needed this today? Thank you. And i'm all about a little green frog singing with a banjo. You made me smile.
- March 2, 2009 at 1:30 PM
- Dara said...
Thank you for posting all your advice :)
And yay for Kermit--that video definitely brings me back to my kiddie days :)
- March 2, 2009 at 1:30 PM
- RW said...
Well, I don't agree with the comment that inspired this week, but good for you for taking it in this spirit. You always have a very generous way of responding to your readers. I've been wondering how you put up with so much negativity. Props for you for facilitating so much important discussion that can get heavy sometimes.
- March 2, 2009 at 1:33 PM
- Mark Terry said...
Somehow I think you need to make up a T-shirt that has the grim reaper on it with the logo: A Kinder, Gentler Angel of Death.
As we say in our household, I'm feeling so positive I've got rainbows and unicorns coming out of my ass.
- March 2, 2009 at 1:33 PM
- Martin Willoughby said...
Life is like a battery: every negative needs a positive.
- March 2, 2009 at 1:35 PM
You have to be the sweetest writers' agent in the world.
Yeah, puppies!
And thanks for acknowledging those of us who contribute to the conversation here too - it's nice to think we are valued for our participation too.
And thanks for the old format!
- March 2, 2009 at 1:35 PM
- Doug said...
You crack me up. I really appreciate the kudos for writing, you're right, writers who send out endless amounts of query letters and receive nothing but rejections can sometimes get a little down, or maybe suicidal. So a little positivity feels great.
And as long as we're having such a hugfest I'd like to say that your insight into the publishing market has been enlightening and at times refreshing. Not like root beer float refreshing, but refreshing in its own way.
- March 2, 2009 at 1:37 PM
- Sir John said...
I just returned from sleuthfest and heard nothing but positive outlooks from both agents and editors. Everyone was very active in seeing the next project and pushing forward. This is much different from what you hear on most communications being passed around. I also heard of none of the authors being asked to cut their advances.
Yes, I'm in a good mood and looking forward to a bright future in writing.
Thanks for this blog, I'll send many too it and see if we can build the momentum.
Johnny ( Sir john) Ray
- March 2, 2009 at 1:38 PM
- Diana said...
I really needed this perky post today, Nathan. Thanks for making me smile. We're lucky to have you!
- March 2, 2009 at 1:43 PM
- selestial-owg said...
Positivity is over-rated.
Just kidding. Sign me up for housebroken puppies and rainbows (a pot of gold would be handy too).
Hmmm ... positivity... oh, it looks like we are taking the kids on a rather impromptu vacation to Disneyland next week. I think the hubby figures if the "happiest place on earth" doesn't yank me out of my funkadoodle, we are just screwed :P
- March 2, 2009 at 1:47 PM
- L.C. Gant said...
Your words couldn't have come at a better time. Seriously. This post made my day, especially the video. Who doesn't love Kermit?
I don't think your blog has been negative; it's just that there isn't much positive news out there right now. But God bless you for focusing on the good stuff anyway. I can use all the puppies, kittens and rainbows I can get!
- March 2, 2009 at 1:48 PM
- Robena Grant said...
Loved the singalong. I feel positively positive now, about what I'm not sure, and think I'll go write something.
- March 2, 2009 at 1:52 PM
- writermomof5 said...
Thanks for the Monday morning smile! I love Kermit.
- March 2, 2009 at 1:56 PM
- Rose Pressey said...
Yay! Puppies!
- March 2, 2009 at 2:04 PM
- Natalie said...
Can we have unicorns too? And chubby babies? I'm looking forward to happy week; winter is too long.
Bless that little frog and his rainbow.
- March 2, 2009 at 2:04 PM
- Tulafel Applebuns said...
Awww shucks.
- March 2, 2009 at 2:05 PM
- Colorado Writer said...
Yes, puppies...I got one over the weekend. :)
- March 2, 2009 at 2:05 PM
- Kiersten said...
Oh my gosh, you're right--I am amazing! Thank you for reminding me!
(Yes, this was an awesome post.)
- March 2, 2009 at 2:07 PM
- Erik said...
First of all, I really love "Rainbow Connection", and have since I was a kid.
Second of all, being a bit down when it's real isn't so terrible. You don't sing the blues to feel better, you sing them so that others can understand ... well, you get the ref to "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" (still miss ya, August!)
Thirdly ... oh, Hell, I'll go back and listen to "Rainbow Connection" again. To Hell with the Blues.
Someday, we'll find it
The Rainbow Connection
The lovers, the dreamers, and meeee
- March 2, 2009 at 2:08 PM
Dang it, Nathan. You made me cry. Did I mention I cry more when I'm happy than sad, and that was positively the sweetest blog I have seen yet.You are a sweetheart! Are you married? I think I need to set you up with one of my friends! LOL
PS I like you both ways. It is definitely nice to see appreciation out there. Keep up the good work!
- March 2, 2009 at 2:08 PM
- Rick Daley said...
MMMM...bacon :-0
- March 2, 2009 at 2:11 PM
- T. Anne said...
Yes! Send in the clowns! Well maybe not clowns, those sort of creep me out. Send in the kittens! Throw some butterfly's in the room while you're at it :)
- March 2, 2009 at 2:14 PM
- Vegas Linda Lou said...
OMG, you guys... I'm getting a cavity reading these comments!
- March 2, 2009 at 2:16 PM
Aww. Today's blog post gave me a case of the warm fuzzies!
Doesn't get much better than puppies, kittens, rainbows, and Kermit!
Thanks, Nathan :)
- March 2, 2009 at 2:17 PM
Thanks, Nathan! A week of positivity will be fabulous :)
I must say, though, that of all the blogs on the business that I read, yours actually tends to be the most encouraging. You actually take the time to respond to your readers and you take our comments seriously. So, thanks!
- March 2, 2009 at 2:19 PM
Your blog is my absolute favorite. You always manage to deliver even the worst news in a funny and informative way. Keep up the good work, and if you ever write a novel, I'll be the first to read it!
- March 2, 2009 at 2:23 PM
- Julie Butcher-Fedynich said...
You didn't have to say how dashing I looked, you had me with bacon. I love the idea of a positive week. Go Nathan!
- March 2, 2009 at 2:24 PM
- J. M. Strother said...
I'm glad you remembered the puppies!
And, though I have never gotten a rejection letter from you (yet), I'm sure you are a very pleasant Angel of Death.
- March 2, 2009 at 2:27 PM
Hey, Nathan,
Thanks for the positivity, the strokes for us writers, and the dose of Kermit. Just what I needed today.
- March 2, 2009 at 2:28 PM
- Marilyn Peake said...
Whoa, that brought tears to my eyes, Nathan. Are you sure struggling writers are allowed to be treated that nicely?
Your positivity week came just in the nick of time. I picked up a bad cold, the DOW is plummeting, AIG is in huge trouble in its overseas branches ... Ooops, I mean: rainbows and puppies! I cannot wait to think up something positive to add to positivity week.
Jo said: "Re- the process of writing. For me, at least, it is exactly like digging a deep, perfectly rectangular trench with a small plastic spoon." Lots of writing days feel like that to me as well, especially if I'm trying to carve out writing time in a very busy day.
Here are two positive things: It snowed last night, and the snow is absolutely beautiful today! And I reached page 197 in the novel I'm writing.
- March 2, 2009 at 2:31 PM
- Suzan Harden said...
Now all we need are Piiiigs In Spaaaaaaace!
- March 2, 2009 at 2:32 PM
Vegas Linda Lou,
I'm thinking of heading out your way in June. Where is your show? You crack me up.
- March 2, 2009 at 2:32 PM
Anon 10:19 - Here's wishing you many more rainbows and paychecks.
- March 2, 2009 at 2:33 PM
- Francesca said...
I love kittens but I couldn't eat a whole one.
I wouldn't have described you as negative, actually. I like visiting here because you seem really positive and I like imagining that all agents and editors are like you, really cheerfully looking for great stuff and generally in love with words and books and those that put them together.
Still, love me some Kermit.
- March 2, 2009 at 2:37 PM
- Rachel said...
I don't think you are doom and gloom. In fact, I've always appreciated your frank, honest look at the publishing industry and the fact that you take valuable time out of your own busy career to give us wonderful advice. But I do like this post. :-)
- March 2, 2009 at 2:44 PM
- Whirlochre said...
Oh what a timely post. I've been such a grouch all day and this has cheered me up no end.
There's always room for the sound of a bugle — especially on the surface of an asteroid.
- March 2, 2009 at 2:50 PM
- Vieva said...
Oh, my love, I found you!
*makes off with the frog before the pig shows up*
- March 2, 2009 at 2:55 PM
- TC Laverdure said...
I have reading your blog for the last few months, lurking about. Almost delurked the other day.
But with the Rainbow Connection of the Wise Kermit the Frog and your commitment to your readers, I have decided now is the time to delurk.
The problem with Negativity is that it is a code word for being critical without appreciation.
The benefit of Positivity is that it manages to be critical (always needed) yet embraces appreciation (always desired). Though we need criticality to develop and grow, we desire appreciation to keep from feeling isolated,worthless and hopeless.
Humans need to learn how to turn a problem into a benefit,and that really only starts with a deep sense of personal appreciation. I know you appreciate even when critical, so cool on you.
I look forward to reading your blog, living the life of a delurker and eventually sending you a query. BIG GULP
I appreciate you and your blog. Like a new friend I am getting to know and learn from.
TC (Terence)Laverdure
Calgary, Canada
- March 2, 2009 at 2:56 PM
- Brigita said...
Your post and another request for a partial just made my day! Thanks.
- March 2, 2009 at 3:04 PM
- lotusgirl said...
I already like Positivity Week. It started off for me with snow! Unlike all those people in Canada and Buffalo, North Carolina rejoices and shuts down for us all to go play. Yippee!
I'm grateful there are so many good books out there too. Yea! They keep me so entertained.
- March 2, 2009 at 3:07 PM
- Arron Ferguson said...
Sorry to piss in the proverbial pool but isn't that a link to copyright-infringed content?
I know it's not your content and that you're trying to add add a smiles to your readership but I find it ironic that a member of the publishing industry is linking to this so casually; it is an indirect show of support of this behavior really.
- March 2, 2009 at 3:13 PM
Nathan, I think you are now officially the King of Blog Awesomeness. Be prepared for an Imperial Margarine-like crown to materialize on your head the next time you post something. And for everyone too young to remember that crown it was surpassed in glory only by Lifeboy (SP) soap, which gave its users the power to walk on air.
I read this blog every day; it's always substantive and almost always funny. Perhaps you should reward yourself with bacon and Mad Men. AND a puppy.
- March 2, 2009 at 3:15 PM
- Vancouver Dame said...
I wouldn't call your blog negative, Nathan, since you basically lay the publishing information on the line. Positivity does help when everything in writing starts to look dark, but we must remember that posting (by Konrath) about confidence and delusion. I prefer the facts, combined with your subtle humour. I would say your blog is one of the least negative of the writing blogs that I read. I come here for information, not necessarily therapy. You have the most interesting followers, and I usually read most of the comments. Thanks for keeping it going.
- March 2, 2009 at 3:16 PM
- Nathan Bransford said...
This is a not-for-profit use of a very short excerpt from a larger work, and it has not been taken down from YouTube at the request of the rights-holder. I feel that it falls under "Fair Use," but if someone else feels differently please let me know. Of course I respect copyright law.
- March 2, 2009 at 3:17 PM
- Jen said...
Your positivity week is matching my own positivity week! On Saturday I had a spanking new idea for a novel, and I am so excited about it I have been on cloud nine (and writing 2000 words a day..).
Also, everyone is out of the office today so I will have the whole place to myself, I can kick off my shoes and have a nap under my desk if I want!
(Note to Boss - I will totally NOT nap under my desk...)
ETA - verification = uphysiva, sounds like some sort of happy drug...
- March 2, 2009 at 3:18 PM
The original post never implied that you, yourself, are a negative person. It merely pointed out that many of the posts focused on the dire state of the publishing industry. So hey, instead of focusing on the not-so-fun items, how about only focusing on the good things regarding publishing for a little while.
Well, judging by your post today and the reactions, it seems you have done just that. And I think you'll agree, what a wondrous thing it is, positivity. With only a few words, you have inspired many, and at just the right time.
Well played, Mr. Bransford. Well played indeed.
- March 2, 2009 at 3:27 PM
If the plastic spoon breaks -as they tend to do- I think you can get extra ones from the nearest McDonalds, or any other cafe...
- March 2, 2009 at 3:28 PM
- Steve Fuller said...
What are you people smoking?
Please never be positive again, Nathan. It makes everyone act weird.
Authors don't need gloom and doom (because things aren't gloomy and they aren't doomed). And authors don't need their egos stroked with empty words of false hope.
What we need is to realize the new world of possibilities out there. We need to stop acting like victims. No one is out to get writers. We need to learn how to take advantage of all the great opportunites that exist in 2009.
I am thankful Nathan gives THAT to us. If I want someone to tell me I'm wonderful, I'll call my mom. If I want gloom and doom, I'll turn on the news. I want reality, and Nathan provides it.
- March 2, 2009 at 3:33 PM
- Crimogenic said...
Thanks for the shout out to writers :), Your blog is awesome and I depend on it for my publishing news, whether doom and gloom or cheers and rainbows.
- March 2, 2009 at 3:37 PM
- Ink said...
I'm waiting for the Darth Vader voice-over...
Oh, okay, I admit it, I like me some Kermit the Frog. Though, as confession is in the air, I'll say that my favourites were the two old grumpy guys in the upper balcony. Who's with me?
My best, as always,
- March 2, 2009 at 3:38 PM
- Vancouver Dame said...
Bravo - Steve and Bryan. I also liked the two grumpy old men in the balcony on the Muppets. They provided a touch of reality.
- March 2, 2009 at 3:56 PM
- Lisa Schroeder said...
I'm sitting here watching the markets tank, and I click on your blog. Hooray!!! Just what I needed - KERMIT!!
All positive all the time for a whole week!!! Bring it, Nathan! <3
I really need to watch Mad Men. So many people rave about it. Oh wait, I have a contracted novel to revise. Maybe when I'm done?
- March 2, 2009 at 3:57 PM
- Mira said...
Steve Fuller, I'm not sure how you can say no one is out to get writers, when I've got a list here on my desk......where is it.....of writers I'm am definitely 'out to get.'
So, in the future, if you wish to be completely accurate, you should say, 'no one is out to get authors, except maybe Mira, if you're on her list.' You, Steve Fuller, are NOT on my list, though, so you can relax.
Nathan, I've said it before, and I'll say it again. You're my hero.
Positivity is just what we need.
And I LOVE that song.
And thank you, I think we all do look quite dashing lately. Including you, Nathan.
- March 2, 2009 at 3:58 PM
- Mira said...
Oh. If the lawyers ask. By 'out to get' I meant buy their books, of course.
Just a cheerful joke about death threats. Ha Ha.
- March 2, 2009 at 4:00 PM
- Melissa McInerney said...
My teeth hurt. Is this a blog about batteries? Electricity?
Ohhhh, positivity. Just be my very own Angel of Death and I'll forgive all the saccharine comments today.
- March 2, 2009 at 4:01 PM
Not to get too metaphysical but I believe that your reality is based on your perception...ie.whatever you focus on is what grows. Not to discount the overall economy out there which has obviously affected the publishing world as well, but if you focus on negativity, you will certainly find plenty of it.
On the other hand, if focus on things like puppies and rainbows, you tend to find more of them as well. I agree with the post about seeing this as a time of opportunity for writers rather than being victims. Thanks Nathan for a wonderful blog, but I still think you shouldn't post on Friday nights! :)
- March 2, 2009 at 4:08 PM
- Kimber An said...
Oh, Kermie! I'll take one Himalayan kitten and three butterflies, please.
I think it's also important to remember one positive thing for all of us involved with books during this recession. *Humans need great stories during difficult times.* Ask anyone who went to the movies during the Great Depression or World War II.
- March 2, 2009 at 4:14 PM
- ryan field said...
I remember when you first started this blog. It was announced on another agent blog.
It's a great accomplishment to manage to attract a large readership to a blog. And you'e done that.
- March 2, 2009 at 4:17 PM
- Anna said...
oh, this made me chuckle. ta love...
- March 2, 2009 at 4:35 PM
- Adaora A. said...
I didn't find you negative, just realistic. Neverthelsss, I'm sitting in my university library laughing so loud that people are looking at me strangely. The "my friends" link really set me off.
But when it's a really dark tunnel, there is always the light at the end to look forward to.
- March 2, 2009 at 4:54 PM
Hurrah for positivity. I wouldn't say your posts are overwhelmingly negative, but there have been a few reality checks that had the optimism of a sledge hammer and a crystal vase.
In the spirit of your post, thank you for an entertaining and informative blog. I've been lurking for months now, and your blog always makes me smile ...
Or cry (see above).
- March 2, 2009 at 4:54 PM
After watching the My Friends video I did some Tube surfing (as you do) and saw this
I bet you Obama dances like that in real life!
- March 2, 2009 at 5:06 PM
- BarbS. said...
Make your world complete, Nathan.
Get yourself a guinea pig.
Or two.
Or three.
They're addictive.
HAD to say it. ;-)
That's right. I just had highly-sugared coffee and bounced here from authonomy.
- March 2, 2009 at 5:06 PM
- Travis Erwin said...
You had me at bacon.
- March 2, 2009 at 5:22 PM
- Marilyn Peake said...
Vegas Linda Lou,
You crack me up! Today, I needed to hear lots of positivity after I forced myself to watch the business/financial channel for hours on end. The experts who have been so sure that everything will work out said a lot of scary stuff today, with their eyes widening to near-anime size, making statements for the very first time about how it might just be that investment companies have never really understood how the global markets work. Wow - that was some strong bleaching type toothpaste that will surely keep my teeth from getting cavities no matter how many sugary blog posts I read. (The news, however, did set my teeth on edge.)
However, since this is positivity week, an idea in which I thoroughly believe: there are LOTS of fantastic, truly amazing deals on just about everything, including travel, right now. I'm thinking about scheduling a vacation to someplace that used to be expensive, taking advantage of the incredible discounts, some as high as 75% off.
- March 2, 2009 at 5:23 PM
- Being Beth said...
This blog and tht Kermit video make me smile. Thanks!
- March 2, 2009 at 5:26 PM
- Kelly Pollard said...
Love the post Nathan! Thanks for your props to us struggling writers, it takes the edge off the rejections...
- March 2, 2009 at 5:26 PM
- Amanda Cobb said...
Haha, this made me smile. Thanks!
- March 2, 2009 at 5:27 PM
- Mayumi said...
Nathan: You are so rad. Thanks for putting a friendly face on the publication biz.
- March 2, 2009 at 5:30 PM
- Camels & Chocolate said...
Dude, I needed this. It's already been a lame week...the only thing getting me through is the Bachelor Party.
Also, Rainbow Connection was always my favorite!
- March 2, 2009 at 5:30 PM
- Scott said...
Thanks, Nathan.
Here are a few positives:
1) I'm positive that song is going to be stuck in my head the rest of the day!
2) I'm positive that glass of wine I'll have when I get home will help maintain my newly 'positive' attitude.
3) I'm positive this post just made my day.
Thanks again!
p.s. two dogs and two cats at home, no more puppies or kittens allowed. I'm also 'positive' about that! : )
- March 2, 2009 at 5:48 PM
Who was that masked Anon????
- March 2, 2009 at 5:55 PM
- Lady Glamis said...
What a sweet post, Nathan! I hope you know that we all appreciate you, too. You do what you have to do to make a living and sell what is good and fits your bill. I hope one day I fit the bill whenever I finally get my Monarch partial to you.
This positivity week sounds great! I look forward to all your posts. Thanks for an awesome blog!
- March 2, 2009 at 5:56 PM
Last week I buried my old dog. (not a WIP)
This week I am trying not to have to bury the other one.
I am not ready to contemplate puppies.
As a matter of fact, I am getting ready to throw out the cat.
Pesky critters, they are so cute...
But given my state of pets in crisis, I do soooo appreciate a positive week somewhere to check in.
- March 2, 2009 at 6:01 PM
- Kristy Colley said...
I wanted to comment, then saw there were already 84... *sigh* how the hell does that happen so fast?!
But then I thought...shazam...I'll comment anyway. (yes...I actually thought 'shazam')
So here's my obligatory w00t to this post. w00t!
- March 2, 2009 at 6:05 PM
- Lisa Iriarte said...
Thought this might interest you.
- March 2, 2009 at 6:12 PM
- Ginger Simpson said...
Wow...I needed this. My muse has been trampled by watching political news, and the blog I started to promote myself has become a rant against the economic injustice. I've broken my own vow to avoid religion, politics, and ethnic issues. Your post came just in time. I've dumped out my prozac, tightened my bra straps, and hiked up my panties. Give me more positive feedback. I'm drowning in bad news here. *lol*
- March 2, 2009 at 6:13 PM
- Karen said...
I'm positive that this will be an enjoyable week in Blogland.
- March 2, 2009 at 6:15 PM
- Nikki Duncan said...
I am positively laughing my rear off right now! I can never hear that song without seeing my former Marine buddy singing The Rainbow Connection in a crowded Karaoke bar. And to top it all off, at my birthday dinner the other night another guy friend of mine proceeded to sing it to us at the dinner table.
- March 2, 2009 at 6:16 PM
I already have a puppy, and I'm allergic to kittens but the Rainbow Connection was very nice.
My fave line: "Somebody thought of it, and someone believed it..."
Doesn't that describe the author/reader process?
Oh and I agree writing is totally like digging that big hole with the plastic spoon, except with revisions you also have to fill it back up and then redig it, often again and again.
- March 2, 2009 at 6:17 PM
- Denise Eagan said...
Thank you Nathan. Got another foot of snow in the Northeast today. Positivity is much needed.
I'll add something--my sister-in-law works at a B & N. She said last quarter was a banner quarter. Only one store, true, but hey I'll take any good news!
- March 2, 2009 at 6:18 PM
- thespectacleblog said...
I feel better already.
But I'm not above having more bacon.
Parker P.
- March 2, 2009 at 6:21 PM
- Chad Carver said...
Bacon is meat candy!
- March 2, 2009 at 6:21 PM
- Hilabeans said...
AND the Bachelor finale is tonight!
Can I get a rose with my rainbow/kitten/puppy/banjo-playin' frog?
- March 2, 2009 at 6:22 PM
- Meg said...
Thanks for the ego boost on the whole you wrote a novel its an incredible accomplishment thing.
- March 2, 2009 at 6:31 PM
- Amy said...
The perfect day for a little positivity, I needed that, I look forward to a week of sunshine and flowers.
Thanks Nate!
- March 2, 2009 at 6:33 PM
- Aaron Stephens said...
Positivity is always welcomed.
You aren't the Angel of Death...you are more like a young Michael Landon from Highway to Heaven. :D
I think it is kind of hard to write a novel, but if you have an idea and the passion to write it, then it won't be too bad.
And I dug a ten foot trench one time with the ground soaked with a spoon....come to think of it, it was a Shooter. Nevermind.
- March 2, 2009 at 6:35 PM
- Jen said...
Chad Carver said...
Bacon is meat candy!
Bahahhahahahahahhaaa! That's hilarious!
Oh, I also wanted to add that my sister and her first husband had The Rainbow Connection as their first dance at their wedding. (Yeah, they got divorced, but the sentiment is still nice!)
- March 2, 2009 at 6:40 PM
- S. Mozer said...
Thanks for the appreciation. Right back at you. It is an excellent blog full of great resources. Thanks for doing it.
- March 2, 2009 at 6:46 PM
- Joann Mannix said...
Oh Nathan...sigh. Thanks for that rainbow and all the love thrown at us slaves to writing. Out of the dark will come light. Let's all chant positivity together. By the way, It's liberating to be out of the lurking closet.
- March 2, 2009 at 6:47 PM
- Hope Clark said...
Ah, positivity. Now you're speaking my language.
C. Hope Clark
- March 2, 2009 at 6:51 PM
- M Clement Hall said...
Harlequin are reporting profit.
Howzat for positivity?
- March 2, 2009 at 6:52 PM
- M Clement Hall said...
A (very) few writers on Authonomy are getting contracts.
- March 2, 2009 at 6:56 PM
Love It! And to add to the kittens and rainbows...Mama Duck laid an egg today! Of course that was after the raccoon ate four of her eggs last week, but we're not going there it's Positivity WeeK!
Oh and I really liked what you said about wanting to know the writers behind the queries.Kdrausin
- March 2, 2009 at 7:01 PM
- K.S. Clay said...
Nice post, Nathan. I don't think your blog is too negative, but, well, we can all use rainbows and puppies right now so bring it on!
- March 2, 2009 at 7:11 PM
- Litgirl01 said...
Wow! I really do have that warm and fuzzy feeling. Thank you so much for acknowledging how hard it is to write a novel. Even if I don't publish this one, at least I feel a sense of accomplishment. I am researching my next one now. Not RIGHT now because I had a few too many margheritas, but I plan to resume tomorrow! :-) Thank you for a great blog Nathan.
- March 2, 2009 at 7:17 PM
The positivity has caused me to delurk!
Thanks for the general cheer Nathan and all the great information that you provide. This is a wonderful way to start off the week.
Thank you for all the information, time, and fun insights you share with us via your blog!
Here's to a week of things that make us smile :D
- March 2, 2009 at 7:17 PM
HEY NATHAN!!! What a fabulous idea and I KNOW you to be an appreciative, positive, look on the brightside kind of a personality, so ENJOY! This too will be easy for you. Lucky people are those who get to read the upcoming posts and feel just a little better.
- March 2, 2009 at 7:25 PM
- David Eric Tomlinson said...
One day down. Only four more to go.
I have a feeling this will be a bit like watching Cool Hand Luke eat 50 hard boiled eggs ;)
- March 2, 2009 at 7:37 PM
- Cam said...
More good news! People are begging - really, begging - me to finish the 2nd draft of my novel! Of course, most of these people live with me and are annoyed with not seeing much of me lately, but some of the folks begging say that, from my description, they really want to read it. There. Good news! There are readers, there are novelists, and there are beggars.
- March 2, 2009 at 7:39 PM
- Bethanne said...
Thank You! I swear it wasn't me, cuz I still enjoy my visits when Nathan lays it all on the line, but phew! Love positive thinking and smiles.
- March 2, 2009 at 7:44 PM
- Anna Lefler said...
Okay, I received your post via email and came here to reply...and got the big Kermit the Frog bonus! Woo-Hoo!
Thanks for the sweet post, Nathan.
Your blog is like Chapstick on this writer's windburned soul.
(Oh, man, I am SO using that in my next query letter.)
;^) Anna
- March 2, 2009 at 7:45 PM
- Stephanie said...
I'm looking forward to a happy week! I think that there is a difference between being doom and gloom all the time and being honest and acknowledging that this is a hard business. Also, as one of the leagues of writers who have received rejections from you, I have to give you great credit for being prompt and professional. No one likes a no, but when you get a no from someone so long after you submitted that you had assumed for say six months or a year that you had been rejected, it's like pulling the scab right back off.
- March 2, 2009 at 7:46 PM
- Anne said...
Hi Nathan,
I just came across your blog, and although I think it's sweet that you're in awe of people who write, it seems to me you should be shining some of that flattering afternoon sunshine on yourself! I really enjoy your voice; I just wanted to let you know that.
PS Puppies and kittens make everything better. And bacon too, but not all together...
- March 2, 2009 at 7:48 PM
- Cass said...
Thanks for the positive post Nathan!
Your not the Angel of Death at all!
Thanks for the frog too, Kermit was always my favorite.
- March 2, 2009 at 7:50 PM
- Robert A Meacham said...
Okay, I'll see your kittens and raise you a puppy, no, make that two puppies.
- March 2, 2009 at 7:51 PM
- Sarah said...
Thanks, Nathan! What an encouraging post, though you should know I've never been discouraged after reading your blog.
And don't worry about the Angel of Death bit. One of my favorite characters is Terry Pratchett's Death. His horse is named Binky AND he likes kittens. Here's a picture:
Not exactly Kermit, but kinda sweet nonetheless.
- March 2, 2009 at 7:53 PM
- TonyK said...
What nerve. Of course he declares positivity week on the same day he rejects my query! Maybe yesterday I could have pulled off the positive stuff. Or maybe tomorrow.
- March 2, 2009 at 7:55 PM
- Stephanie said...
I'm back to add another thought. We all want to get realistic credible information. It would be nice if everyone's work was good and got nice feedback. Well, maybe it would only be good if MY work and the work of my friends was GREAT and got FABULOUS feedback. However, we live in the real world.
If a rah rah speech addressed to all of us is sufficient to make me feel good about my writing and my life, I'm not taking it seriously enough.
Yes, many of us have written novels. A lot of us have probably written terrible novels. Some of us who have written terrible novels will keep working at it until we write novels that are not terrible.
That's an homage to a parody of an inspirational poster: If a picture of a kitty and a sweet saying are enough to motivate you, your job is way too simple and will soon be done by a machine.
I'm going to keep working, and someday, maybe I'll get it right.
- March 2, 2009 at 8:00 PM
- CNU said...
There's a taoist expression:
What you think, becomes what you say, what you say becomes what you do, what you do become your habits and your habits create your destiny.
Go positive.
- March 2, 2009 at 8:07 PM
- I_am_Tulsa said...
Kermit rocks! ...and so do you Nathan!
- March 2, 2009 at 8:14 PM
- Sarah said...
Stephanie, I don't think Nathan was complimenting our writing- just our effort.
I agree, we shouldn't be the sort who are so pleased with our writing that we stop working at it.
But ... as someone who is rarely satisfied with what I do, it's far easier to keep at it if I acknowledge the milestones. Finishing a novel doesn't mean it's good, but it does mean you have accomplished something.
I've got a bottle of wine waiting for me to finish a huge plot-level rewrite. I'll drink my wine, then start what I estimate will be another six months or so of revisions.
I figure as long as we don't confuse a milestone with the end of the trip, it doesn't hurt to take a bit of encouragement now and then.
- March 2, 2009 at 8:33 PM
Did you say bacon and Disneyland in the same sentence? Heaven, indeed!
Don't forget to add unicorns to that puppy/kitten/rainbow week.
- March 2, 2009 at 8:46 PM
I love you, Nathan. Even though you very kindly rejected my query within, literally, 5 minutes of my sending it. Or maybe that's one of the reasons I love you, in addition to today's lovely blog.
Giving you a virtual hug. :)
- March 2, 2009 at 9:06 PM
- leesmiley said...
So, you're saying this would be an especially good week to send a query?
- March 2, 2009 at 9:10 PM
Positivity rocks. We need more of it in the world. Not pie-in-the-sky stuff, just looking for the bright side of things, rather than always focusing on the negative.
You are such a nice agent that I think I will send you a query about my newly finished novel. I hope you like baseball.
And I'll take kittens anyday.
- March 2, 2009 at 9:10 PM
- Deborah Leiter said...
(Deborah delurks, looking around her like a Chuck-style spy)
I don't know if it's so much that this blog itself has been gloom and doom as that the news in general focuses so much on the things that are going wrong that we forget to focus on the good stuff sometimes, which actually means we as a society are being unrealistic, in that we get a negatively-balanced view of the way the world is going.
Sure, there's lots of stress for various people right now, but we are the ones who get to write new stories that can help us deal with what's going on out there. Heck, in my mind, we need some more hero stories more than ever at times like these...and books are still one of the best places to get them.
(Deborah ducks back between the pages of the Elizabeth Peters Amelia Peabody novel she's been reading)
- March 2, 2009 at 9:22 PM
- Liz said...
Well, needed or not, I'm on board with Happy Fun Week. Writers are dark by nature (not bad people, just more inclined to dwell in the shadows). We have to be. It makes for more interesting writing. A little Happy Fun Week never hurt anything.
- March 2, 2009 at 9:25 PM
- Heidi C. Vlach said...
You're pretty awesome yourself, Nathan! Flowers and unicorns back atcha!
- March 2, 2009 at 9:27 PM
- Newbee said...
Why... Nathan,
Thank you for noticing...I have been looking rather well haven't I? The Angel of Death from "Phantom" is hot. So, I'll take the Angel of Death any day and everyday.
I'd like to know if you've had your green eggs and ham yet? Every school in the nation is celebrating Dr. Suess this week.
When people are getting laid off right and left it's hard to stay positive...understandably. But, finding that next best selling book must be exciting for you. Sure you have to weed through the fields to find the perfect rose...(that was for you and your crazed "Bachlorness")but once you find it it's priceless.
Rainbows...kittens...puppies...fishies, and bunnies!
- March 2, 2009 at 9:29 PM
- Serendipity said...
um, I don't know you, I've never submitted to you (basically because I've written a middle-grade fiction book) but...thank you. Thank you for saying that. It does get freakin' frustrating with all the rejection letters, but thank you, Mr. I Have No Idea Who You Are and we will probably never cross paths, but thank you. It 'is' hard writing a book. And it's so easy to forget that you've actually written one...
thank you. I'll cherish that non-personal compliment.
- March 2, 2009 at 9:37 PM
- Sarah Laurenson said...
Awesome post. Thanks for adding Kermit and the Rainbow Connection!
I'm ready for more positivity!
- March 2, 2009 at 9:42 PM
- Pattie Garner said...
Thank you for those positive words.
- March 2, 2009 at 9:42 PM
- Ryan David Jahn said...
I'm not positive by nature, but I am hopeful. I see the glass as half empty, but I really HOPE whatever's in it is tasty, in other words.
Here's what happened as a result of being hopeful: In the midst of all of this negative publishing news I finished what I thought was a good draft of a novel. This was December 8th, I think. I sent the manuscript off to the Macmillan New Writing imprint -- which I first heard about approximately two weeks earlier on this blog -- and on December 19th I heard from an editor there that he liked it, but other folks had to read it before any decisions were made. I'd get an update early in the new year.
For the next two weeks I paced various rooms, banged my head against various walls, and was not hungry at any point.
On January 8th, one month after I sent the manuscript in, I was told they wanted to publish my novel.
Since then I've written a new draft, utilizing editorial suggestions (122 of them; that's one every other page; it's a short novel), seen copy written for the back, seen the cover art they plan to use, and been informed that my book is scheduled for a November 6th release.
This is all as a result of Nathan happening to mention Macmillan New Writing and me happening to have just enough hope -- despite warnings coming from every direction that the publishing industry is crumbling -- to send my novel in.
So I guess what I'm saying is, no matter how bad the news generally is, you never know if you're gonna be the exception. So hope is always warranted.
Also: Thanks, Nathan.
- March 2, 2009 at 10:00 PM
- kitkat said...
Another thank you to clog your inbox!
- March 2, 2009 at 10:10 PM
- Mira said...
Wow, Ryan David, congratulations!
That's pretty darn positive news!
- March 2, 2009 at 10:11 PM
- Madison said...
Bacon! I love bacon!!!
And I did query you once and recieved a very nice rejection letter. I don't believe in replying to rejection letters for any reason, but I did appreciate the time you took out to personalize it.
And no, you haven't been really negative. A little, yes, but who hasn't? :)
Keep writing these posts, Mr. Bransford! This is one of the best blogs on the internet! :D
- March 2, 2009 at 10:14 PM
- Laura said...
rainbow connection? are you getting SOFT in your positivity? C'mon, Nathan, be a man! Say NO! :)
Just kidding, I hate positivity, it's too positive...
and my word verification is squinks, who thinks up these things?
- March 2, 2009 at 10:53 PM
- Melissa Sarno said...
Thanks for your post. I am currently writing a novel and, while I am no where near the point where I can attempt to find an agent, I've been reading your blog and learning what I can about this process and the industry. I have found so much of the information valuable. Thank you. But, admittedly, I often leave feeling overwhelmed and discouraged by the process. And I definitely have to skip all of your 'state of the industry' posts when it comes to layoffs. ha. I look forward to a week of positivity and muppets. :-)
- March 2, 2009 at 10:55 PM
- Jean said...
I LOVE Kermit!
Course, I really like the two old guys (Statler & Waldorf( in the balcony too:-)
- March 2, 2009 at 11:07 PM
aw this made my day. You rock.
- March 2, 2009 at 11:20 PM
- Marilyn Peake said...
Happy Dr. Seuss Day, everyone! Apparently, kidthing is offering 4 free digital Dr. Seuss books in celebration.
- March 2, 2009 at 11:37 PM
- Jessica said...
It's official. I have a cyber-crush.
- March 2, 2009 at 11:38 PM
- Marilyn Peake said...
Ryan David Jahn -
Wow, that's wonderful news! Congratulations!
- March 2, 2009 at 11:43 PM
- Chumplet - Sandra Cormier said...
Every week I read your posts, and often comment. Sometimes it's daunting because hundreds of others have commented before me.
I just want to let you know that no matter how much doom and gloom there is out there, your posts encourage me to keep trying to perfect my craft.
- March 2, 2009 at 11:55 PM
- Sarah Jensen said...
Well, my son loved the video, and now he's not bouncing in my lap anymore, he's calmed down. So thank you from the bottom of my heart!
And if I thought you were all gloom, I don't think I'd read you every day.
But this post was great.
And I didn't go through all the comments, but I have to say, I watched the Bachelor for the first time, and I was impressed with those two girls. Don't they usually have mean back-biting girls. That's what the commercials show. But I so rarely watch any tv, that I was pleasantly surprised by them both. I guess I can now see why you like the show. :)
- March 3, 2009 at 12:38 AM
- Mira said...
Hey, so does triple-dog daring you work, Nathan?
'Cause if so, I triple-dog dare you to take me on as a client.
Not only am I an unpublished writer, but I haven't actually written anything.
Go on. Sign me. I dare you.
No. I triple-dog dare you.
No. I triple-dog dare you, plus I throw in an extra 127,000 dares.
Times infinity!!
That ought to work.
- March 3, 2009 at 12:39 AM
Yes Yes! We need Pigs in Spaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaace. Oh that will be heaven! Thank you Nathan for giving us what we really need when we really need it. Like now.
- March 3, 2009 at 12:41 AM
- Horserider said...
:D There is NOTHING more fun than sitting down and just watching the words flow on the page. Writing so fast your hands can barely keep up. There's also nothing more frustrating that writer's block at a crucial point in the story, but this is supposed to be POSITIVE. :D
By the way...I already have enough kittens. :D One of them is in my lap right now. I could use some rainbows though. And some 70* F weather wouldn't be too bad either...
- March 3, 2009 at 12:43 AM
- Marilyn Peake said...
I just discovered that, for a limited time, Fictionwise is offering "all Stephenie Meyer titles, including the NY Times bestselling Twilight series, with a 50% Micropay Rebate with credit card purchase." Details can be found here.
- March 3, 2009 at 1:04 AM
- EMC07 said...
Positivity... On a Monday? That's impressive. Thanks for the warm fuzzies :) Love the blog. Thanks for writing and keeping us informed. You are awesome.
I feel all warm inside and it was 7 degrees today.
- March 3, 2009 at 1:05 AM
- talshannon said...
You're part of the next generation? You can't be *that* young -- you're showing video of Kermit's first movie! That came out ages ago, when I was just a . . . oh wait, does this mean I'm not that young anymore?
- March 3, 2009 at 1:20 AM
- Kim Kasch said...
Puppies, kittens, rainbows and FROGS. I had to listen to see if it was Kermie or a Fraggle.
- March 3, 2009 at 1:33 AM
Darth Nathandar or Strawberry Brancake (ok. that doesn't work. anyhoo). Either way we got nothin but luv for you Nathan...
and bacon of course. Shouldn't have one without the other. This blog as always is a must read.
- March 3, 2009 at 2:15 AM
- Elyssa Papa said...
All for postivity and more good things this week.
But does this mean we can't talk about the finale, or the After the Rose ceremony of The Bachelor last night?
- March 3, 2009 at 4:05 AM
- Misssy M said...
Nope, despite all that, I'm still negative. Got an email from my agent last night telling me she's had no takers from the publishers she sent my book to. And this is the real source of my depression. She said, amongst other things, "Depressing, yes, but not an indication of the quality of work, I think. Just the recession. If this had been 2006, we'd be laughing"
So I'd like a time machine please. Anyone want a ride?
- March 3, 2009 at 4:34 AM
- Toni Kenyon said...
And Angels, we need more Angels, Nathan.
- March 3, 2009 at 5:16 AM
- Richard Lewis said...
Two comments. If this is going to be positivity week, then may I ask why you are "afraid" that you don't represent poetry and screenplays? Be courageous in your un-representation! Wouldn't it be more positive to say "I boldly won't represent poetry and screenplays"?
(Um, before the literal minded jump on their keyboards and point out the how the niceties of language are used, may I point to the tongue in my cheek.)
Second, dogs. Dog people know the range of emotions that dogs express, simple direct straightforward emotions, but are dogs capable of expressing amusement? Examples would be wonderful and positive to share...
- March 3, 2009 at 6:55 AM
- Heather said...
I like this kinder, gentler Nathan. (Probably because I know it's finite in nature.)
- March 3, 2009 at 7:12 AM
- Ulysses said...
In a moment of frightening synchronicity, I posted the same video on Sunday.
If there is some significance to this co-incidence, it's lost on me. I'm not that deep.
But: the frog rules.
- March 3, 2009 at 7:22 AM
Thanks for this.
My three year old comments:
"I love froggies. Cute froggies."
- March 3, 2009 at 7:36 AM
No negativity, huh?
So that's why you didn't mention the Bachelor finale...
- March 3, 2009 at 7:40 AM
- Susan Helene Gottfried said...
Hidey-ho, Nathan! Great video choice.
To be honest, I am seeing a lot of positive stuff in the publishing world, but then, I'm looking in some very unusual places.
- March 3, 2009 at 7:59 AM
- marye.ulrich said...
Happy Happy Week!
I celebrated yesterday by reading a book just for fun. Imagine that!
I picked one book from my TBR pile, sat in a comfy chair with a footstool, got a large ice tea, put on some soft music and read about... a murder--oops, sorry, but the story has interesting characters, clever analogies.... oh, happy day.
- March 3, 2009 at 8:18 AM
- Stef Kramer said...
Positivity. Whether it's realism or escapism, what an utterly perfect way to begin March.
- March 3, 2009 at 9:00 AM
- Sara said...
Thank you Nathan! You made my day with your positive post.
- March 3, 2009 at 9:01 AM
- lettersfrombella said...
Nice idea, Nathan.
Also, (on a completely unrelated but still interesting note) aren't you sick of the bachelors not picking any of the girls? I don't know. It feels like I wasted two months of my life waiting for something that didn't happen.
- March 3, 2009 at 9:06 AM
- Samika Swift said...
Thank you for this post; I needed its message today.
- March 3, 2009 at 9:28 AM
Well, your positivity week might have been blown by the Bachelor last night. Yikes!
- March 3, 2009 at 9:34 AM
- Nathan Bransford said...
Re: the Bacehlor.
Well, that was some gripping TV!
- March 3, 2009 at 10:05 AM
- Kate Pierson said...
I was just staring out at Minnesota snowdrifts indulging my seasonal affective disorder and thinking, "Just because you're paranoid doesn't mean people aren't out to get you" when I received your latest.
Nice timing on the kittens and rainbows. Thanks, Nathan. For an Angel of Death, you're all right.
- March 3, 2009 at 10:13 AM
- other lisa said...
@ Missy M: Me! Me!
I'm positive as long as I don't think too much. Where's my kitten?
- March 3, 2009 at 10:25 AM
- Mira said...
Missy M. -
That's hard, but hang in there. There's no time machine backward, but there is one moving forward. Times will change.
- March 3, 2009 at 11:13 AM
- Cindy Jacks said...
LOL, love the Rainbow Connection video. I'm a big Kermit fan.
I wanted to thank you for pointing out that writing a novel in and of itself is a huge accomplishment. It's easy for writers to get down on ourselves as the rejections roll in. Very true that most people say they'll write a book and never do. Kudos for the positive perspective!
- March 3, 2009 at 11:25 AM
- Mark said...
173 comments so far..perhaps you have something there.
I started reading blogs in an effort to keep up with what was going on. I selected a set of blogs about interests I have and tried to get ones from both sides of the issues. I've dropped many (ok, most) because the endless screaming about the wrongs the other side is perpetrating becomes depressing and I find I simply lose interest.
I think that there is a lot of good going on, focusing on the bad gives you a lopsided viewpoint. Most people remember hitting 4 red lights in a row but how many remember hitting 4 green ones in a row?
I'm not a literary giant but i think there is a lot of positive in the publishing world, from manufacturers such as Amazon actually responding to the concerns of authors - whether you think its justified is a different issue, the point is they listened - to new ways support groups can meet to new methods of first-timers getting published, I think there is a lot of positive things going on right now.
I think this is a great thing and I look forward to your posts.
- March 3, 2009 at 11:33 AM
- Justus M. Bowman said...
Thanks for sharing the Rainbow Connection.
- March 3, 2009 at 11:43 AM
Ah, Nathan, love backatcha!! I fell out laughing when i saw the 'rainbow connection'! Hysterical and yet completely a apropos for all us lovers and dreamers.
- March 3, 2009 at 12:07 PM
- Kristine Overbrook said...
"It is on." :) Love that
You're off to a good start with Rainbow Connection Nathan.
LOL My first favorite song ever.
Thank you for reminding us that others know just how hard writing can be. Starting is agonizing, finishing is torture and don't even get me started on the middle.
It's awesome that you acknowledge it.
Thanks. I feel all warm and fuzzy.
- March 3, 2009 at 12:39 PM
- Scott said...
Nathan, I watched some of that Bachelor thing last night, and is it me or is that guy kind of creepy now? It's as if he's addicted to the show experience, and only loved that other girl because his reuniting with her held the dramatic potential he craved. Interesting story idea here, maybe: a spoiled manchild who manipulates his women in order to fall in love with their suffering. A Rose By Any Other Name might be a nice title. That or Soap Hunk Wannabe Weirdo ;)
I bet he's thinking about the other one now, too.
waricap n. 1. a covering placed over the eyes in order to see through someone's bullshit.
- March 3, 2009 at 12:39 PM
I think that after six weeks our friend Jason finally realized that there's more to picking a mate than bragging rights. Run, Jason, Run!
JASON (beer in hand)
Hehe. Yeah, my wife used to be a cheerleader for the Dallas Cowboys.
- March 3, 2009 at 1:30 PM
- Wanda B. Ontheshelves said...
Kermit, Kermit, Kermit...where have you been all this time?
I am waiting for the Muppet Wall Street movie to come out, I really am. Just picture in your mind the Bernie Madoff Muppet...
P.S. Put me in the Kermit Krybaby Klub - I couldn't watch the whole thing, I wanted to, but it filled me with piercing nostalgia.
- March 3, 2009 at 2:42 PM
- Conda V. Douglas said...
Thanks Nathan! We need it these days--and here's another good bit--the percentage of people who read has increased over the last 3 years by 3 percent--woohoo!
- March 3, 2009 at 3:17 PM
- Deb Lehman said...
Nathan, you rock! Love the positivity in this atmosphere of gloom and doom and Limbaugh. Unknown authors need all the rainbows we can get!
- March 3, 2009 at 3:25 PM
- Bethany Brengan said...
This is absolutely what I needed today. Rainbows, bacon, kittens, and Kermit are definitely all part of my vision of heaven.
- March 3, 2009 at 4:22 PM
- Patrice said...
Whoa, baby, do you get a lot of comments! I've been lurking for a while, but have finally come to the surface.
Everyone has already said so much, but I will add -- thank you for taking the time to write this blog! I blog myself, and it is a fun effort, but an effort nevertheless. And, Nathan, do you read ALL the comments? You know you don't usually get so many....
Thanks for the Kermit video. The theme song for us dreamers!
P.S. As an intellectual property attorney turned writer, I agree that you are unlikely to be in trouble by posting it. If not, everyone who put videos from YouTube on Facebook, their blogs, and the many newsblogs would be facing copyright infringement claims. I'm not sure that it actually qualifies as Fair Use, which is pretty specific, but you have a strong claim that established practices support your doing what the rest of the online world is doing.
That will be $300.00, please!
- March 3, 2009 at 4:30 PM
- Court said...
*gasp* Kittens! Puppies! Rainbows! Beach balls, glitter, lollipops, and smiley faces!
Also, there must be ice cream.
*end happy spluttering* You made me think happy thoughts. Thanks, Nathan! :oD
- March 3, 2009 at 5:10 PM
i love the rainbow connection! and disneyland too! and books! aw, now i feel all warm and fuzzy. i'm very into this positivity week. :)
- March 3, 2009 at 11:24 PM
- Muppet Soul said...
Umm, I love you. If for no other reason than posting that video.
LOVE. The forever kind. You are now on the same list as Kermit.
And triple-dog daring is probably responsible for a lot of amazing things. And for tongues getting stuck to poles in the winter.
- March 4, 2009 at 5:01 AM
- Caroline said...
As an archaeologist-cum-novelist I am uniquely situated to respond to your comparison of digging a ten foot trench with a spoon and writing. You are correct. Writing is easier. For one thing, the ground freezing doesn't affect your ability to write! And there is very little risk contracting lyme's disease in a coffee shop.
HOWEVER I would rank it around the same difficulty as digging twenty little holes with nothing in them day after day after day... And then you find something, and you have to dig more little holes, in a circle... Yeah, writing kinda feels like that some days.
Oh, and I really appreciate positivity week. KITTENS!
- March 4, 2009 at 1:23 PM
- Sarah said...
Positivity---got it! I can do that.
I'm down with kittens! Ooo, and puppies! Rainbows too!
(And I've come out of hiding on your blog; be impressed, my friend!) :)
- March 6, 2009 at 12:09 AM
- mt1761 said...
What a great idea- I didn't find you overly negative either, but I still commend you on pushing the positive. We need it, and not enough media offers it. And media really affects my mood, like it or not.
- March 11, 2009 at 10:19 AM


text:
ceiling fan pilot
Hey Asshole! Yeah, You, Jackass! Want To Know Which Disney Princess You Are, You Piece Of Shit?
Around the web and back again to you, the lord of the webrings.
For every two dollars spent, you get just under one skeleton. A troubling proposition.
A hoax alien invasion, covering up...the exact same alien invasion?
Photoshop Phriday showcases the tremendous image manipulation talents of the Something Awful Forum Goons. Each week they tackle a new theme, parodying movies, video games, comics, history, and anything else you can think of. If you want in on the action, join us on the Something Awful Forums!
Copyright ©2017 Rich "Lowtax" Kyanka & Something Awful LLC.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
[Date Index]
[Thread Index]
[Author Index]
how can I do this functionally?
Below I define a function, Classify[S_, f_], in an imperative (and
not particularly efficient) style. Can anyone tell me how to define
it either functionally or via pattern matching?
The function Classify takes 2 arguments, f and S. f is a function,
and S is a subset of the domain of S. In particular, S is a list
of elements of the domain of f, and contains no repeated elements.
The function f induces an equivalence relation on S as follows:
a is equivalent to b modulo f if and only if f[a] == f[b]. Classify
returns the equivalence classes of S modulo f.
Classify[S_, f_]:=
{values, partition, len, index},
len = Length[S];
partition = Table[{}, {len}];
values = Map[f,S];
index = First[Flatten[Position[values, values[[i]]]]];
partition[[index]] = Prepend[partition[[index]], S[[i]]],
{i, 1, len}
(* remove any empty lists from partition *)
Select[partition, (#!={})&]
Here are some examples:
In[2]:= Classify[{-1,-2,1,2,3,4,5}, Positive]
Out[2]= {{-2, -1}, {5, 4, 3, 2, 1}}
In[3]:= Classify[{-1,-2,1,2,3,4,5}, EvenQ]
Out[3]= {{5, 3, 1, -1}, {4, 2, -2}}
In[4]:= square[x_]:= x x
In[5]:=Classify[{-1,-2,1,2,3,4,5}, square]
Out[5]={{1, -1}, {2, -2}, {3}, {4}, {5}}
In[6]:= cube[x_] := x x x
In[7]:= Classify[{-1,-2,1,2,3,4,5}, cube]
Out[7]= {{-1}, {-2}, {1}, {2}, {3}, {4}, {5}}
David Cabana drc at gate.net


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Recently I discussed the concept of without attachment with a colleague here in New Zealand, which essentially means emotionally detaching from the outcome of a situation, to enable a higher focus on the process.
Tag Archives | inspiration
The 1% Principle. What can you do today to make your life 1% better?
Unfortunately most people think self-improvement and life planning is something only people who own Ferraris do. Sadly the vast majority of people spend far more time planning their overseas holiday or buying a second hand car, than they do planning their life and their career.
Using Aromatherapy to Combat the Winter Blues
Most of us get a little down some time or another in winter. There is no doubt that a rainy, cold day without seeing too much sunshine can all play a part on our moods and emotions.
The power of asking…
I am constantly amazed that one of the biggest keys to success is so simple, yet so powerful. I truly believe that one of the most powerful tools we have at our disposal is the power to 'just ask'…
The Gift of Persistence
I was given an excellent example of persistence and the results it can bring recently. My wife was watching a kid's movie on TV with our two boys and some very inappropriate and violent ads came on about half way through.
Who am I? Who do I want to be?
Some of the most important questions you will ever ask yourself are "Who am I? – Who do I want to be?"
Michael Jordan's Wisdom (Rare Interviews)
Michael Jordan shares his wisdom.
Let your values become viral
Values and behavior are a core part of fulfilling our purpose and manifesting our vision. The clearer we are about our values, the more engaged we are with our work and life.
Making a difference before its too late…
I had the most amazing thing happen a few days ago. I opened my local paper and found a half page advertorial entitled "Making a Difference Before its to Late". It was penned by a person guy named Glenn and really made me sit up and think.
The Most Important Business Tips From Donald Trump
Today I found an email I had sent to my husband a couple of years ago – it contained tips from a Donald Trump book called 'The Way to the Top'. All the tips are from Business Leaders – they are true classics in my opinion and worth considering often in good times and when […]
When the Penny Drops – Paradigm Shifts
We've all had an "Ah-ha!" experience at some stage, you know the "when the penny drops" moment. Today's Web2.0 business environment is still such an unknown quantity to many it's little wonder the penny hasn't dropped there for a large majority.
Business Boost from Fiona Hewitt
In these challenging times, new ways of thinking and action are required to keep a business performing strongly.


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Correspondendo a: eweek X
- Classificar por:
- Data ▼
- Título
- Curtir/Votos
- Comentários
- Visualizações
10 issues Microsoft has NOT addressed in Windows 7 - per eWeek
Short and sweet top 10 list of issues with Windows 7: To net it out... 1. Too much of a learning curve 2. Upgrade challenged from XP (forget it), from Vista (recent study had 30% of responders having issues) 3. Security 4. Bloatware 5. Not value for Enterprise...
You can drive a bus through some of Windows 7 holes says eWeek blogger Andrew Gracia
AntonySatyadas Marcações: eweek microsoft windows7 andrewgracia security 3.397 Visualizações
You can drive a bus through some of Windows 7 holes, says Andrew Gracia - the eWeek Signalling IT blogger http://blogs.eweek.com/signaling_it/content001/windows/you_can_drive_a_bus_through_some_windows_7_holes.html "Honestly, it's hard to take Microsoft...
eweek report on installing apps on Ubuntu Linux desktop
AntonySatyadas Marcações: ubuntu application linux brook eweek 2.957 Visualizações
Nice writeup by eWeek on Ubuntu Linux desktops.. " The biggest reason for Brooks' Ubuntu inclination isapplication availability. If there's a piece of Linux-supportingsoftware that you want to run, there's a good chance that it's beenpackaged up in a...
Microsoft Desktop - FUD vs Reality
AntonySatyadas Marcações: vista redhat microsoft linux france brazil client zdnet australia agreement crn dell open india searchenterpriselinux thebusinessedition silicon microsoft-watch novell eweek solution usa hp enterprise uk 4.640 Visualizações
Customers, Vendors, Analysts form the Market. I have been noticing more facts based trends on Microsoft Desktop and its alternatives including Linux. Lets take a look at some: 1. Various companies/governments worldwide are moving to desktop alternatives...
Windows Vista: Aero Glass cracks with Java
AntonySatyadas Marcações: enterprise agreement linux aero microsoft watch reduce java eweek cost vista 3.974 Visualizações
Check this out! eWeeks labs tested the post RC1 Build 5728 Vista with Java based client application. "Aero Glass has reverted to the sans-translucence, sans-3D effects, plain old Aero interface" according to Jason Brooks in Microsoft-watch....
More FACTS on "Playing standards, Microsoft way"!
AntonySatyadas Marcações: consortiuminfo eweek xml standards open 2007 odf word sourceforge 3.375 Visualizações
Check out this article in eWeek: Playing the Standards Game the Microsoft Way ( http://www.eweek.com/article2/0,1895,1985410,00.asp ) by Steven J. Vaughan-Nichols July 6, 2006! "The Redmond crew has an entirely different agenda for "supporting" the...


text:
Freshen the air in your home
Air fresheners smell great, but they only mask odors. To really rid the air of smells in your home, open the windows and let the fresh air in. Bring in houseplants, keep things clean, remove smelly shoes and empty trash daily. If you enjoy scents, you can combine a few drops of essential oil and water in a spray bottle and use as a room mist. Simmer natural items such as apple and citrus peels, cinnamon or fresh mint leaves and water in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, or soak a cotton ball with vanilla or essential oil.
The following suggestions can help freshen the air, too:
Clean and deodorize the microwave:
Microwaves get dirty and smelly. They can be a pain to keep clean if you don't clean them immediately after splatters or spills. To clean your microwave with ease, simply combine a couple of tablespoons of lemon juice and 1 cup water (or 1/2 cup white distilled vinegar and 1/2 cup water) in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a wooden spoon to the bowl to prevent super-heating. Cook on high for three to five minutes or until steam condenses. Wipe down the interior of the microwave with a cloth. If any smell remains, repeat the lemon and water procedure, but add a couple of cloves to the mixture.
Castile soap:
Dilute and spray on counters or floors. Peppermint scent makes the kitchen smell fresh.
Fireplace scent:
Use dried citrus peels or dried herb bundles for added scent. Make the bundles using dry herbs and natural materials, such as rosemary, lavender, bay leaves, cinnamon sticks and eucalyptus. You can add raspberry canes and pine cones to various dried herbs, too. Cut them to about 10 inches and bundle them together (with the stems facing the center of the bundle) using raffia. Place them in the fireplace as fire starter, or add them to a smoldering fire for fragrance.
Garbage disposal:
Pour baking soda and vinegar into your garbage disposal. Cover the drain and let it sit for five minutes. Flush it with boiling water. Afterward, grind ice cubes, salt and citrus peels to give it a fresh scent.
Try coffee grounds:
Set coffee grounds (either unused or used and dried) in a bowl or Dixie cup in an inconspicuous area to add scent and absorb bad smells. Putting them in a sachet works best, but you can use a section of nylon pantyhose, too. If you don't want to use coffee grounds, you can use baking soda and a few drops of essential oil instead. Place in a mason jar and cover the mouth of the jar with tulle, using the jar ring to hold it on.
Hang a cedar block. Use crumpled newspaper or baking soda inside shoes, or pour kitty litter into a spare sock and place it in the shoes. Put the shoes outside periodically to air out.
Use soap bars:
Open up a few cakes of bath soap and put them in your drawers to add scent. Dryer sheets or free perfume samples from magazines will work, as well. Both can help your bathroom smell nice, too.
In your vacuum:
If you have a central vacuum system, put several drops of essential oil on a cotton ball and put it in the vacuum receptacle to fill a room with essential oil scent.
Trash cans:
Sprinkle borax into your trash can to prevent it from smelling, or toss a dryer sheet into the bottom. Speaking of dryer sheets, put a sheet in a linen closet, a suitcase when traveling, sneakers, the trunk of your car, at the bottom of your clothes hamper, in your vacuum bag, tucked inside a toilet paper roll or around the holder, etc., to keep odors at bay.
Carpet deodorizer:
Borax is a good product to use on pet "accidents" and spilled milk on carpets. Blot the spill with a cloth. Pour borax onto it and let it absorb and deodorize, then vacuum. Test an inconspicuous area of your carpet beforehand. For simple carpet deodorizing, combine 1/2 cup borax and 1/2 cup baking soda in a bowl. Add 20 drops of essential oil and stir. Transfer powder to an empty Parmesan cheese container. Shake the powder onto your carpet. Vacuum after 15 minutes.
photo by smart goat http://www.flickr.com/photos/mabray/142413896/sizes/z/in/photostream/


text:
The electron-sodium system is an excellent prototype of non-relativistic electron scattering from a quasi-one-electron atomic target, and is tractable both experimentally and theoretically. Recently, this system has been studied in a series of sophisticated measurements that together approach complete experiments for elastic (3s>3s) and inelastic (3s>3p) scattering. We here apply the theory of orientation and alignment (OA) in atomic collisions to this system using scattering matricies from coupled channel R-calculations described in the first paper in this series [W.K. Trail et al., Phys. Rev. A 49, 3620 (1994)]. To facilitate extension of OA theory to other transitions and systems and to clarify its relationship to canonical scattering theory, we present a reformulation in terms of the state spaces indentified by a particular scattering event. Following application of this formulation to paradigmatic OA experiments, we compare our results to those from existing measurements and other theoretical calculations. To contextualize these experments and aid in identifying promising regions for future measurments, we also present a comprehensive three-dimentional overview of the differential OA parameters for energies from threshold to 8.6 eV.
Citation: A Century of excellence in measurements, standards, and technology : a chronicle of selected NBS/NIST publications 1901-2000
Publisher Info: NIST, Gaithersburg, MD
Pub Type: Books


text:
Call toll free:
Congratulations on a brilliant product. I was stunned to see the effort put into every facet of business - from cust service to shipping.I am KICKING myself I did not use Raxle's on the other side of my car. You even gave me a new roll pin for the inside joint!! Your saying "Quality is always a bargain" is too true.Regards,B Donegan.
RAXLES warrants to the buyer of any axle that it is free from any defects in workmanship
and material forever.
At Raxles® Inc, we are striving to become America's premier supplier of OE quality CV Axles and CV joints.
Raxles® has been redefining quality in the CV Axle industry for over 20 years, and was the first to exclusively use new CV Joints on every CV Axle sold.
Raxles sells direct to the customer, and is a global supplier to the finest automotive repair shops, new car dealerships, auto parts stores and racing teams with the industry's best CV Axles. The best is just a call away; Raxles, first in Quality!
We've got 4 good reasons not to buy CV Driveaxles with reground components
Constant velocity (CV) joints, because of their unique ability to overcome some of the design limitations of conventional Cardan style U-joints, have become a common component on many of today's drivetrains. You'll find CV joints used on many rear-wheel drive (RWD), four-wheel drive (4WD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles as well as on all front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles.
Some type of flexible coupling is needed on all open driveshaft to accommodate the up and down motions of the suspension. What's more, some means of allowing the driveshaft to change length or to "telescope" in and out must also be provided because the distance between the ends of the shaft change as the operating angle of the shaft increases.
Copyright © 2009 Raxles Inc.


text:
|Separate WC's
|1,300 sq. ft.
|Property type
|Minimum Stay
|6 nights
From the moment you walk through the front door of our Edwardian townhouse, we want you to feel welcome. Our townhouse is spacious, light and lovingly cared for. We provide high speed wireless internet, free long distance phone calls to North America, Australia and most of Europe and oyster cards (travel cards) which you can top up across the street and use on all tubes and buses. We take care of you before you arrive with our own guide to the area, including nearby stores and restaurants, a little local history and some of our favorite haunts. We also mail you directions and descriptions of our favorite London walks and a street map of London, which includes bus routes and tube stops. If you need any advice about your stay just email or call Fatijah (presently in California but still a Londoner at heart). If anything crops up during your stay, text our wonderful property manager, who is there to help.
Maida Vale, one of Central London's upscale neighborhoods, is a sought after area for Londoners, because while you can easily get anywhere in central London, it is also quiet and friendly, without the pollution and bustle of Soho or Oxford Street. The charming parade of shops boasts a florist, beauty parlor, and general store (where you can top up the travel cards we leave you) as well as restaurants and delis (such as Bon Appetit, specializing in homemade croissants).
One block away is a large park with two children's playgrounds and a running track (where Roger Bannister trained to break the 4 minute mile). The Abbey Road Studios, where the Beatles recorded, is a 15-minute walk; as is Little Venice, with its 18th century canals and colorful houseboats. (Check out the puppet theatre barge, the canal boat ride to the zoo and the waterfront eateries.) Want to venture further? The Portabello Road Market and antique district in Notting Hill is a little over half an hour's walk.
The reception room has large windows and classic features marking the style of the late 1800's: nine-foot ceilings, crown molding, crystal chandeliers and period prints. We provide high speed wireless internet, a high-end stereo system and an assortment of guidebooks and brochures.The dining room, which can be closed off from the living room, is stocked with Portmeirion china and has a couch and TV nook at the far end. The eat-in kitchen has modern appliances as well as a washer and a dryer. The two bedrooms, on the upper floor, are large and light. The master bedroom has a queen size bed. The second bedroom has a double and a single bed, plus a pull out trundle bed. Both bedrooms overlook one-way streets with trees and little traffic. The bathroom is vast, with a tub, shower, and bidet - as well as excellent water pressure.
From Heathrow Airport take the 15 minute Heathrow Express to Paddington Station. Go one tube stop or a very short cab ride. You've arrived!
Our townhouse is close to two tube stations, Maida Vale and Warwick Avenue. You can get anywhere in Central London with ease. (The Bakerloo line is one of the best, with trains running every 2 or 3 minutes.) For example, Oxford Circus, London's shopping mecca, is a ten-minute tube ride. Piccadilly Circus, the center of the theater district, is a twelve-minute ride. The Number 6 bus runs 24 hours and stops two blocks from our residence. It has a great route – stops at Oxford Circus, Piccadilly Circus, and Trafalgar Square. You can get on and off the tubes and buses easily with a travel card. Whether you spend your days navigating the crowds on Oxford Street, touring Westminster Abbey, or awed by the Tower of London, you will welcome returning to our quiet, safe oasis.
My husband and I live in California, which we love - but I am English - grew up in London - and was missing my friends and family. We were fortunate enough to buy this Edwardian townhouse. We visit whenever we can and when we can't be there, we love that other people are able to enjoy London.
Fatijah Clark purchased this townhome in 2008
We looked for over a year at more than 50 residences to find the perfect home base. We wanted it to be easily accessible from Heathrow, to be near a good tube line and bus route so we could easily navigate all of London, to have its own separate entrance and a spacious interior, and preferably to be a period property in a charming neighborhood (if possible with a good deli and general store across the street). Voila! This is it!
The townhouse was built in the Edwardian era - late 1800's or early 1900's - and we have decorated it with prints and memorabilia from this era.
Our friendly neighborhood is a quiet oasis in busy London. It is also near two tube stops on an excellent tube line so all of London is easily accessible - trains run every 2 to 3 minutes and go straight to Oxford Circus, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square etc.
We loved the townhouse and the location. It's close to everything but not in the middle of the tourist areas so we felt like locals! We will definitely be back and I'm not even considering any other place to stay. Thank you!
What a pleasure to come home after a full day of sightseeing! Beds are super comfortable, neighborhood friendly and convenient to the Bakerloo line, nearby park lovely. Coffee shop across the street served a delicious Chai soy latte and yummy pastries. Very happy week!
You couldn't ask for a better location, decor and arrangement of rooms, as well as all the comforts of a great hotel. The owners have thought of everything and are eager and ready to help, should there be any problem - we had nothing but happy times. The house looks onto pretty tree lined streets with little or no traffic. The rooms are large and comfortable. The kitchen and bathrooms up to the minute. We loved it and hope to return. Easy access to the Tube, charming local shopping, beautiful walks. Wonderful. Everything in the 5 star reviews is spot on.
Thanks Fatijah for sharing your lovely comfortable townhouse with us. Having the store across the street and the restaurant right there made it very handy to eat good food after a long day of sightseeing. Loved the beds. Sooo comfy. Thanks again. Grandson, Mom and Grandmother Bonita
We saw no other tourists in this area and had all the shops, restaurants, etc. that we needed. It was like we were Londoners for a week. The apartment was lovely, clean and comfortable and only 3 or 4 minutes from the tube. Fatijah answered every email promptly and we simply had no problems. We look forward to staying here again on our next trip to London.
Beautiful house in a lovely walkable neighborhood- close to buses and a tube station, which allowed us to easily get around the city. Close proximity to many sights, restaurants, grocery stores, a park, and a delicious, quaint, Italian coffee shop. We would sightsee all day long and come back to "our beautiful home" at the end of the day- perfect!
We provide a street map of London that is yours to keep. The townhouse has a library of guidebooks and brochures on historical sights, museums, parks, restaurants, walks, pubs, and day trips that are not to be missed. We'll advise you on getting around by bus or tube, how to top up your travel card, a few lesser known sights of London, and a few of our favorite hole-in -the-wall restaurants. We also provide information on walks that we love and day trips to historic places an hour's train ride from London.
We love London and hope you will too.
|Rental Period
|Minimum Price
|Additional Nights
|Weekend Night
|Event Price
My Standard Rate
6 night minimum stay
for 6 nights
|Non refundable cleaning
Check in and check out - Please let us know your preferred check in and
check out times and we will try to accommodate you.
Downpayment of $500 secures your dates. The balance is due 6 weeks before your stay.


text:
Great Decisions series offered at McDaniel
The eight-week series will be held at noon on Mondays, Jan. 31 through March 21, at McDaniel Lounge on the Westminster campus.
Topics will range from "Rebuilding Haiti" to "Responding to the Financial Crisis to Sanctions and Nonproliferation" and are explored with expertise from invited faculty and guest speakers.
The opening lecture on Jan. 31 will feature alumnus Tom Armbruster, Class of 1980, a career foreign-service officer with stints in Finland, Cuba, Mexico and, most recently, Tajikistan.
The lecture series has proven popular to area citizens and usually fills up fast.
Registration fees include the cost of the Great Decisions briefing book that provides background reading leading up to each week's program as well as light refreshments. Costs for the series is $40 for individuals and $65 per couple. To register, call McDaniel at 410-857-2290 or email email@example.com. Reservations are requested by Dec. 1.
Developed by the Foreign Policy Association in 1954, the Great Decisions program is the longest standing and largest grassroots world affairs educational program of its kind. Now in its eighth year at McDaniel College, this program is designed to encourage discussion of global issues.


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The Best Canon Pixma PrintersApril 26, 2011 No Comments
Canon Pixma printers are considered to be fashionable and sleek machines that provide excellent quality printing at a reasonable price. There are specific models that are made to offer the best prints for personal or office needs while the other types are for professional photo printing.
If you are searching for the right Canon Pixma printer that can support your printing needs, then here are some of the best models.
One of the most famous model of Canon printers is the Canon Pixma MX700 printer which has superb printing and copying speed. It is highly competitive when it comes to fast printing, making it a top choice for busy workplaces with loads of printing needs. This printer is filled with Canon inkjet cartridges that can be bought at an affordable price if purchased as compatible or remanufactured.
Another high-end printer is the Canon Pixma Pro9000 printer which is a good choice for photo printer users. This model has been made with a technology that could produce the best images. There are also compatible Canon Pixma Pro9000 ink cartridges that can offer both savings and great prints at the same time.
There are still other types of Canon printers that can offer you more than just high quality printing. The examples given here are somehow wonderful devices that you can depend on for your personal or business prints. Just be sure to use the right Canon toners and ink cartridges to get your desired print anytime you need it.
Fatal error: Call to undefined function wp_related_posts() in /home/content/t/o/n/tonerboss/html/wp-content/themes/mymag/single.php on line 24


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If you make lots of money, you will pay more in Oregon income tax than you would save in sales tax. Being retired, may not be an issue. If I could move to Washington for the income tax relief I would.
In Washington county which is outside Portland, they are very conceal carry friendly. I have never had an issue getting my permit in decades.
Come on people. Get your facts straight.


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Product Reference: 42168
12x Magnification portable lens
If you want to take your iPhone 5 / 5S photography to a new level, then this is the piece of kit for you.
The capabilities of the iPhone camera are simply stunning, however taking photos of people, objects or landscapes from a distance can be difficult. By simply fitting the specially designed case to your iPhone 5 or 5S and screwing in the portable zoom lens attachment, you're ready to take photos at up to 12x magnification.
Great for wildlife photography, travel photography or composing candid shots.
The zoom lens includes a focusing ring to ensure the image is sharp and in focus.
Case to protect your iPhone 5 / 5S
The included case can be kept on your iPhone 5 or iPhone 5S for protection, then it's just a matter of screwing in either the zoom lens and opening your camera app.
Tripod and holder for taking steady shots
To keep your images steady, there's an included tripod and iPhone 5 / 5S holder. The iPhone is firmly held into place and can be set to various angles so you achieve the ideal composition. The added bonus is that the tripod and iPhone holder can be used without the zoom lens, making it ideal for family photographs when you wish to be included in the picture
As a package, this is the iPhone 5 / 5S accessory you can't be without. Take your iPhone 5 photos to a new level with this ingenious zoom lens, case and tripod.


text:
Items in Cart:
Why this monitor?It combines a quality video and sound monitor and a movement monitor in a single system.Whether baby is awake or sound asleep, Angelcare¿¿ under-the-mattress Sensor Pad will detect all of her movements.All options can be set with the touch screen on the Parents Unit.A versatile baby monitor: any function (video, movement and sound) can be very easily deactivated to fit your needs. FeaturesColor video transmission: Keep an eye on your baby¿¿¿s crib thanks to the live video feed transmitted from the nursery unit to the parents unit. The camera angle is adjustable.Night vision: You can now monitor your baby¿¿¿s sleep at night with no disruption like opening the door or turn the light on. Our infrared camera allows you to keep an open eye in the dark.2.75¿¿¿ LCD Touch Screen: All settings can be adjusted with our touch screen and our intuitive user interface. You now have the peace of mind you need at your fingertips.2-way communication: Use this monitor like a walkie-talkie and reassure your baby with the sound of your voice.Under-the-mattress sensor pad: The Sensor Pad monitors all your baby¿¿¿s movements, even the slightest breathing movements. An alarm will sound if no movement has been detected for 20 seconds. Features variable sensitivity settings.Temperature display and control: Monitors and shows the temperature in the baby¿¿¿s room with the temperature indicator on the Parents Unit. Alarm sounds if the temperature is too high or too low.2.4 GHz Digital transmission with minimized interference: The digital transmission with the frequency hopping technology allows for optimal privacy and safety of communication between the Nursery Unit and the Parents Unit.Portable & rechargeable Parents Unit: Clip the small portable Parents Unit to your belt and monitor your baby on the go. Battery unit lasts for up to 8 hours, when fully charged.


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Such acts of violence and martyrdom are fully sanctioned by Islam, the Taliban says, and should be repeated.
"We will not stop until we obtain victory or martyrdom," Nafis was recorded saying, according to the complaint.
He told the news channel he awaits death with joy and that martyrdom is the greatest reward.
When images of children at Rabaa dressed in martyrdom shawls later made the rounds, they caused a media sensation in Egypt.
If he is dead, al Qaeda will doubtless release this last testament with his martyrdom memorial.
The martyrdom of St Edmund in the next spandrel is a most realistic picture.
It accounts for the readiness to commit suicide and for the indifference to martyrdom.
He sets his gendarmes of the future on religion and thereby gives it a longer lease of life by martyrdom.
I go to martyrdom: to fulfil what appears to be the solemn vocation of the Ouvertures.
We are left, however, for the most part, without authentic record of the tragic scenes of Christian martyrdom.


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Interest Rates 101
It's the Rosetta Stone of all lending. Here's how your interest rate is calculated and what can make it go up.
Related Links
Discussion Boards
Latest Credit Center Headlines
The bold-faced numbers on the outside of the envelope ("0% Balance Transfer Rate!" "9.9% For Life!"; "12% Forever!"; "Really, REALLY Low Rates! Really!") don't tell the whole story.
There's a lot more to calculating a credit card's interest rate than the copywriters let on. And if you're currently carrying a balance on your credit card -- even just occasionally -- the interest rate is the key to controlling your debt. Here's a Fool's primer on this important measure:
All kinds of interest rates
The APR refers to the annual percentage rate of interest you are charged on your credit card. It's the same thing as your interest rate.
The Prime Rate is used by banks to set the benchmark interest rate for their loans. Most follow the average prime rate -- which has hovered in the 6% to 10% range in the last decade -- calculated by The Wall Street Journal. For example, a lender advertising a card with an APR of Prime + 5% is hawking a card carrying a 9.75% APR based on the recent prime rate.
A fixed rate or fixed APR refers to an interest rate that will not change until the issuer decides to change it. You'll also see lenders refer to a fixed APR as "fixed for life," though as we mentioned before, they can legally change the rate at any time whether you're alive or not. A general rule of thumb is to look for a fixed rate card when interest rates are on the rise.
A variable rate is tied to a certain index (such as the prime rate, T-Bills, LIBOR, etc.), and, as the name implies, varies depending on what direction the index goes. Are interest rates on their way down? Then a card with a variable interest rate usually makes the most sense. Some issuers offer a "variable rate for life" or "prime-for-life" card, which means that the rate will never go above the prime rate.
If you are trying to pay off a balance, most likely you are looking for a card that offers a teaser rate (or "special" rate, "promotional" rate, "limited-time-only" rate). It is simply the Very Special Interest Rate the lender is offering at that time. As with most teasers, there are time limits attached. Teaser and introductory rates are usually offered for both fixed rate and variable rate cards. In all promotional materials for cards carrying a teaser rate, you'll see reference to an "ongoing APR," as well. That is the interest rate you will be charged on balances once the introductory "teaser rate" period has ended.
A penalty rate, as the name implies, is the price you pay for irking your lender. Here are things that can trigger a higher interest rate on your credit card:
- Late payments: Even one late payment and you can kiss your low teaser rate goodbye. Paying your bill late is considered a violation of the terms of your contract with your lender. It's there in the fine print, and there's not much you can do about it. So be sure to be a prompt bill payer.
- Carrying too large of a balance on another credit card: Your creditor may look at your credit records every quarter to evaluate the amount of debt relative to the amount of your current income. One notice received by a Fool staffer stated that customers could not increase "significantly" the amount they spent on another unsecured card. It defined "significant" as $2,000 or more. Keep your eye on your rates if you plan to make any big purchases.
- Your bill-paying habits: Even if you aren't taking advantage of a teaser rate, you could be subject to a penalty rate of up to 32% by missing a few payments or paying late for a number of months.
- Defaulting on a loan -- any loan: If your lender sees you pay late or default on another loan, he can re-price your credit card account so that he won't lose his money, too.
- Nothing at all: Your lender has every right to raise your interest rate. Even the most attractive interest rate offers -- even ones that are fixed or fixed-for-life -- can go by the wayside. Lenders are legally required to give you just 15 days' notice of a rate change, however, most will give you 30 days' notice.
Fun with math
Once you've figured out your interest rate, you need to determine how your lender decides what balance he's applying it to. Most issuers charge interest based on the average daily balance, which is calculated by adding each month's daily balance and dividing that number by the number of days in the month.
The interest equation takes on labyrinthine proportions when you try to figure out whether or not it is based on one or two months of billing cycles -- the current and the previous. Look for the notice on your statement that reads "Method of computing the balance for purchases." Some lenders use an "adjusted balance" method where the previous month's payment is subtracted and the finance charge is based on the remaining balance. There's also the "two-cycle average daily balance method (including new purchases)." When the issuer uses the two-cycle method, he averages your balance over the prior and current month to come up with an "average daily balance" upon which interest will be charged.
If you pay off your bill in full, your lender probably gives you a grace period during which you do not accrue finance charges. (If he doesn't, we recommend dumping him and finding a credit card that offers at least a 20-day grace period, like The Motley Fool credit card. Wink, wink.) If you do not pay off your balance in its entirety for each billing period, however, you will accrue interest on new purchases from the day they are posted.
Interest rate extra credit
As we mentioned in "Finding The One," there are a few finer points to deciphering the best interest rates advertised. If you are paying down a balance on your card, watch for the following:
Minimum rates or APR floors.
Major caveat: Some issuers make your initial variable rate the minimum rate. For example, let's say you open a credit card with an APR of Prime + 5% (currently 9.75% APR) and you expect the prime rate to drop over the next year. It might say in the fine print that the rate is variable based on the prime rate, but that the minimum rate is 9.75%. That means the cardholder gets no advantage if rates fall, and only sees a true variable interest rate if rates rise. It's an all-around bad deal.
Index calculations for variable rates:
If you hold a card that calculates interest based on a variable rate, watch out for how the issuer calculates the prime rate upon which your interest is based. To set the index for their variable rate cards (which they will adjust monthly or quarterly), some issuers determine the average of the prime rate over the past three months. (Though they reserve the right to use any prime rate over the three-month period -- meaning they could choose a rate from the beginning of the quarter which could be significantly higher than today's prime rate.) Therefore, if rates are dropping they will be slow to adjust downward and if rates are rising they will be fast to adjust. Look for an issuer that adjusts the rate on a particular date -- instead of one that chooses a date at random (meaning they'll probably use the highest rate of the period).
Different rates for different transactions.
A balance transfer rate does not always apply to new purchases as well. We often advise people who transfer an existing balance to a low-rate card to simply put the card away and pay it down. Any new purchases on the card will be subject to a higher percentage rate -- usually in the double-digit range. And forget about paying off the new purchase before the old balance transfer. Lenders will first apply your payments to the balances that carry the lowest interest rate. (After all, they're not making much money by charging you 0% interest on something, right?) When those balances are down to zero, then your payments will be applied to the new, higher interest rate purchases.
Here's your homework, Fools. Take out your last credit card statement. Find out what interest rate you're being charged and then turn over your statement and read the fine print in light gray type that gives the details. If you currently carry a balance, see if your lender can lower your rate -- or shop around and see if you can find a card that can beat it. Class is dismissed.


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