text:
Rating: M
Word Count: 10,015
Pairing: Bella and Edward
Prompt used: 'Why Ya Wanna' by Jana Kramer
Summary: Bella always thought she needed to get away from her small town life. When life calls her back home, she'll realize she needed something entirely different.
Disclaimer: I do not own Twilight or the characters, but it sure is fun to dress them up in cowboy boots.
-Little Town, Texas-
I take a deep breath of clean Texas air as I step out onto the front porch and the breeze whips my hair around my face. Looking out from the porch, it's nothing but wide open spaces, maybe a horse or a cow or two, but other than that, it's like looking out into the ocean and feeling like you can see for miles. The clouds in the sky look like little white cotton balls. There are a lot of things that this place isn't, but one thing's for sure, it's peaceful.
When I moved away for college, I never thought I'd move back. Sure, I knew I'd be here for holidays and visits, but I didn't think I'd ever call this place home again. I was so ready to make a break for it and never look back. It's not that growing up here was bad. It was great, actually. I spent my days as a kid running through these fields and dreaming up whimsical stories. My best friend, Alice, and I would swim in the pond or ride our bikes into town. My Aunt Sue worked at the diner, so we would stop in there for a Coke or a fresh baked cookie, or both.
I just always had dreams of big cities. I grew up with everyone knowing who I was and every detail about my life. I wanted to know what it was like to get lost in a crowd and for no one to have any preconceived ideas about me. I wanted, for once, not to be "Charlie Swan's daughter" or "the little girl who grew up without a mother" or "the valedictorian." I just wanted to be "Bella" and let people decide what they thought about me based on just me. I wanted to live in a small apartment and sit around writing all day, maybe working for a magazine or a publishing company.
I guess I had a little of my mom in me, after all.
Renee, my mom, left when I was five. She was born and raised here, but she never wanted to stay. That was my dad's dream, not hers. He wanted a big farm and small town life. She wanted an office job and a studio apartment.
She and I were out of touch for a long time, but she slowly started coming back around when I was about twelve. It took awhile for us to have any kind of relationship, but thirteen years later, we're in a pretty good spot. We've mended the fences, so to speak.
I went to college at Stanford, which is close to where my mom and Phil live. Phil is my mom's husband. She found him in Sedona, while she was finding herself. She said that Phil is her soul mate and that she really did find herself when she met him; and I believe her. They're great together. They live in San Fran, which is just an hour up the coast. We used to see each other at least a couple of times a month. I'd drive up there for the day or they would drive down to see me, but I haven't seen them in a couple of months, not since the day before I flew out here to be with my dad.
Charlie is sick. About a year ago, Dr. Cullen found a mass on his kidney and I flew to Dallas when he had his surgery. It was a fairly quick procedure and he was back home in a few days. I stayed for a couple of days to make sure he was going to be able to get around and take care of himself, but I had to get back to California. I had a job and an apartment. I had a life back there.
As much as I wanted to get back to California, it left me with a bad feeling. I talked to my Aunt Sue everyday on the phone, and I knew that I needed to come back here. My dad needed me. They found another tumor in his stomach a few months ago and they started rounds of chemo. He couldn't manage this big ol' farm on his own. I know I'm a woman and from the looks of me, you'd think I wouldn't be able to do much, but I know how to drive a tractor and I'm not afraid of hard work.
So, I subleased my apartment, quit my job, and moved back home. Charlie has always been there for me. I have to be here for him. I want to be here for him.
Being back here is scary, though. It is scary watching Charlie go through the chemo. It is also scary thinking that he might not be here one day, and that one day might be sooner rather than later. I hate not knowing what tomorrow holds. Another thing that is a little scary is being back in a small town after seven years of being able to blend into a big city. I forgot what it was like for everyone to know my business, our business.
What isn't scary is how easy it has been to fall right back into the ways of the farm. I guess you could compare it to riding a bicycle. Just because you don't do it for a long time, doesn't mean you don't remember how. It may sound crazy, but I actually enjoy my time out in the fields. The work is simple and uncomplicated. When I'm out on the tractor, I have plenty of time to just think about life. I try to avoid thinking much about the future, because it feels too uncertain right now. Charlie always taught me that you're supposed to take one day at a time. So, that's what I'm doing.
Since I've been back home, most days are the same. Charlie goes out and works the fields for as he can and then I pick up the slack, but his time out there has been shorter and shorter as the chemo progresses. He's worried that it's too much work for me. I try to tell him that it's not and that I'll be fine, but he's so stubborn. Just the other day, I heard him talking to a few other farmers at the diner about hiring some of the college kids while they're home for the summer.
If I got my free spirit from my mom, I definitely got my stubbornness from my dad.
When I'm not helping around the farm or taking care of Charlie, I'm at the diner. It is my favorite part of the whole day. For one, I get to hang out with my Aunt Sue. She and I have always been like peas and carrots. When my mom left, she was the one that stepped in and helped take care of me. She taught me how to put on mascara and shave my legs and took me to buy tampons the first time. Somewhere around the ripe age of 16, she gave me the birds and bees talk, although I already knew most of it, but apparently Charlie insisted. God bless her for that one, because hearing anything about sex from Charlie would have scarred me for life.
Charlie thinks that working on the farm and at the diner is a little too much, but I would literally go crazy if I never came into town. Granted, I don't need to work, but I need the diner. I mean, it's nothing like being in a big city, but at least I see people and I can swing by the store for beef lo mein, even if it is from the frozen foods section. The small town grocery store here even started carrying Starbucks coffee. It almost feels like home...or what I had learned to call home. I guess this is home, really. It always has been.
I wouldn't admit this to Charlie, or myself for that matter, but it feels good being here. I think I might have actually missed it.
-Little Town, Texas-
"Corner!" I yell, as I pass the entry to kitchen.
"This has to be the busiest day we've had since I've been back working here," I tell my Aunt Sue, putting the dirty plates into the wash bin. "Is this what I have to look forward to all summer?" I ask, wiping my hands on my apron.
"I think you must be drawing the crowd, Honey. We're never busy like this," Waylon says from the behind the grill.
"That must be it, Waylon," I quip, "I'm like honey to bees, just drawin 'em in."
"You're our good luck charm, or it could be them peanut butter cookies you keep makin'. Dr. Cullen was in here for breakfast this morning and bought the whole batch you made yesterday."
"Whatever it is, Darlin', I'm glad you're here," Aunt Sue tells me, giving me a kiss on my cheek as she walks out of the kitchen with tray full of orders.
When she does that, I'm sixteen again; hair in braids, braces on, and dreaming of blue eyes. Now, there's a thought I haven't allowed to slip through in a while. I tried so hard for so many years to get him out of my head. The first few times I came home over Christmas break or for a short visit, I would dread running into the store for fear that I would run into him. But, after years went by without me seeing him or even hearing anything about him, I finally quit thinking about him and dreaming about him. Although, come to think of it, the last one took a little longer. It was like my subconscious was working against me. I could stop my thoughts during the day, but when I was sleeping, those blue eyes would find a way to slip through the cracks.
"Order up," Waylon calls, bringing me out of my trip down memory lane. "Where'd you go, Bella?" He smiles, tilts his head, and quirks an eyebrow at me. Sometimes I feel like Waylon knows me a little too well. He's perceptive and so much more intuitive than most people realize.
"I'd say you were miles away from here." He raises his eyebrows. "You thinkin' about California?"
"Nope, actually, I was just thinkin' about here...a long time ago. It was nothing, really." Blowing a stray hair out of my face, I take the loaded tray and head out the door.
I walk by the tables with my head down, my mind still in the past. Every table looks relatively the same from this point of view. The only difference is the number of pairs of boots...every once in awhile a pair of tennis shoes sneaks in and there's the occasional pair of flip flops, but mostly boots.
"Two patty melts and one smothered and covered," I say, sitting the plates down on the table. "Can I get ya anything else?"
"Nope, looks good," Hank replies, looking up at me. Billy and Norm seem to be pleased, too, so I make my way back to the kitchen with my tray, ready for the next order up.
Scanning the small diner, I look for empty glasses and plates, trying to see if anyone needs anything, when out of my peripheral vision; a mess of copper hair catches my eye. I stretch my neck out, looking around a cowboy hat. There is no way that hair belongs to who I think it does, because he doesn't live here. He hasn't been here in a long time. Aunt Sue told me so and she never lies. So, there is no way that is who I think it might be...or is it?
I take a deep breath, calming my sudden nerves.
Two steps to the right, I see a blonde haired guy sitting beside him and a taller guy with brown hair.
I swallow hard when I realize that the tall guy is none other than Emmett Cullen, meaning that the copper hair belongs to...oh, shit. Damn it.
I hurry back into the kitchen, my sanctuary at the moment, pressing my back up against the wall as I catch my breath. I feel my palms get sweaty and I wipe them down the front of my apron, resting my hands on my knees, breathing deeply.
"You look like you've seen a ghost," Waylon observes, looking up at me. "You alright?"
"What the hell is Edward Cullen doing out there?" I ask, shakily, pointing over my shoulder toward the door I just came through.
"Last time I checked, this here's a free country. People seem to go and do as they please, especially 'round these parts," my Aunt Sue says slowly and calmly, as she walks past me.
"You said..."
"I said that I hadn't seen him in a while. I didn't say he never came around."
"You told me..."
"I told you that he was livin' in Austin. That's all I said. Don't be goin' and gettin' all pissy with me, Bella Swan. I think it's high time you dealt with a few skeletons in your closet. It really makes no sense to me why y'all quit talking in the first place. Both of you are stubborn asses, if you ask me, but apparently no one asked me." She pauses for a moment. "You want to know what I really think? I think God brought you back here for more than just takin' care of your daddy. I suggest you don't squander it. Now, get out there and take some orders, make yourself useful," she orders, shoving a towel toward me and putting me in my place.
I stand there for a minute, letting it soak in and trying to get a hold of myself.
Waylon chuckles.
"What the hell is so funny?" I glare at him, about two seconds from pissed off.
He holds up his hands in surrender, or more like in defense...that's the "I don't want to be the next one to get my ass chewed out by Sue" stance. He should grow some balls. I wouldn't tell him that, because I love him, and it's sweet how he thinks my Aunt Sue hung the moon and looks at her like she just solved world hunger.
Besides, apparently, I need to grow a set myself.
Stop being a coward, Bella.
I peek out the door of the kitchen. I have to wait for someone to move out of my way, but then I see him. An old grey t-shirt, jeans, boots, and that smile. I think that smile was the hardest thing to let go. It lights up the room. He smiles with his eyes and his cheeks. It's not half-assed or forced. It's beautiful.
My face heats up. I know that if I looked in a mirror right now I would see pink cheeks and it might already be working its way down my neck.
I let the door swing shut and back away from it like it's on fire. I can't go out there.
"You're gonna..." Waylon starts.
"I know, I know. I just, I can't go out there, Waylon. I haven't seen him in years. I don't even know what to say." I keep my back turned to him.
"'Can I take your order?' That would be a good place to start." He suggests, and then pauses. "It's not like you're strangers, Bella. Just say 'hello'."
"You make it sound way too easy."
"If he tries to bite, I'll be right here with a pitchfork," he chuckles.
"Gee, thanks." I smooth out my apron, brush my hair behind my ears, and try to put on a brave face. When I walk back out, I see Sue taking an order at another table. I wish I could make eye contact with her, silently begging her to switch me tables, but it's almost as if she knows and refuses to turn around.
Man up, Bella.
Walking slowly, I stop by a couple of tables, just making sure they have everything they need and don't need any refills. Who am I kidding? I'm just delaying the inevitable.
Why did he have to come in here and sit down? I mean, I know this is a small town, but surely they could have gone and got a burger at Sully's or eaten at home. Damn it. I've heard Esme makes one hell of a meatloaf.
Deep breaths.
I stop by and check on one more table, picking up a pitcher of sweet tea and refilling a few glasses. I guess there's a chance that he doesn't even remember me, or maybe he won't recognize me. I look down and see my name tag sticking out like a sore thumb, and remind myself that we graduated with less than a hundred people. And there was that summer we shared together. I know it's taken me the last seven years to get him out of my head. If he felt even half of what I felt, he's going to remember everything...every touch, every hand hold, every kiss. There weren't many, but the few that we did share, we sure made them count.
Suddenly, I realize I'm just standing by the wall, holding a pitcher of sweet tea, with my mind miles away, for God only knows how long.
My Aunt Sue turns around and gives me a look, motioning with her head for me to just go over there already. It's now or never.
You're just supposed to rip the bandaid off. It's less painful that way, right?
I pull out my pen and order book and walk up to the table.
"Could I get y'all something to drink?"
Three sets of eyes look up at me. I look at each of them, not wanting to hold their gaze for very long. I feel my face heating up. Blues, greens, browns...I'll just look at the browns. Emmett has always been so sweet. Growing up, he was the class clown and the star athlete all rolled into one. Seeing him here makes me miss him and I wish that we hadn't lost touch. It's freaking me out a little just how much I missed these faces. You know that saying about "you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone"? Yeah, I'm getting the full meaning of that…and that one about "the grass isn't always greener on the other side", and a few other cliché sentiments.
Emotions and feelings come flooding back to my mind. Almost the same way it does when Aunt Sue tucks a piece of hair behind my ear. I feel warmth, but not just because my face is probably the color of the red table cloth I'm staring at. It's more than that. It's like hot chocolate and bonfires and my favorite pair of pajama pants...oh, and those pink fuzzy boots...those, too.
I'm hoping in this instance that Emmett will save me...from myself, from Edward, from this entire awkward situation. I know we haven't spoken in seven years, but he has to remember how good of friends we used to be. Used to be. For some reason, that doesn't feel so good. I don't like it.
But it's Jasper that speaks first, "Bella Swan! What the hell are you doin' here, Darlin'?" In two seconds flat, he's out of his seat and has me off my feet. The hug is tight and genuine and just about the best damn thing I've felt in a while. Jasper has always been a charmer. He knows how to work his green eyes and dimples. He's always known exactly what to say and when to say it. When we were in school, all the girls loved Jasper, and his band always played at any event we had in town...Summerfest, Chili Cook-Offs, you name it. They were a hit.
After he puts me down, it's Emmett's turn. A giggle slips out of my mouth as he squeezes the shit out of me. Not literally, thank goodness. That would be embarrassing.
"Well, I work here," pointing to my name tag, finally getting a chance to answer Jasper. I'm such a dork sometimes. Of course, I work here.
"I figured that much. I mean, what brings you back here?"
I fidget with my notepad for a second too long, trying to think of the right thing to say, when a voice speaks up from my left, a voice that makes my knees weak and my heart skip a beat. "How's Charlie?" Edward asks, his tone showing his concern. Of course he would know. I feel like an idiot for thinking that he wouldn't.
"He's hanging in there," I sigh, trying to keep emotion out of my response. Most days, I'm strong and hold it together really well, but some days, the reality of what is happening to my dad sets in and I have trouble keeping the tears at bay.
Emmett and Jasper both look down at the table like it's the most interesting thing on the planet. I think I'd rather them do that than give me the pitiful look most people give me these days.
"So, how about those orders? I'm sure you guys didn't come in here to make small talk." I take a chance and look over at Edward. His eyes are on me, searching, I'm not sure what they're looking for, but it's making me feel things I'd rather not.
"I'm sure we'll have plenty of time for small talk," Emmett says, in his happy go lucky tone. Really? I was guessing they were just in for a visit...meeting up at the old diner...for old time's sake. Right? Yeah, I probably can't be that lucky.
"I say we all come down here for lunch every day," Jasper chimes in, earning him a high-five from Emmett.
"Uh..." I don't know what to say. I really just want to take their orders and high-tail it back to my hidey-hole, also known as the kitchen. I also don't want to ask questions that will make me seem over-eager.
Emmett finally puts me out of my awkward misery, "I'll have the special and a glass of iced tea."
"You know it."
Edward and Jasper both order quickly, thankfully. I need a minute to process behind closed doors...and have a come to Jesus meeting with my aunt.
I turn around calmly, but as soon as I get a few tables distance between me and them, I practically run to the kitchen.
"Spill it." I look my Aunt Sue straight in the eye, no bullshitting. I know she knows why they're here and if I was a betting girl, I'd say she knew they'd be here today. She hears all, sees all, and, generally speaking, knows all.
I cross my arms, making a strong stance. I'm not leaving this kitchen until I have answers.
She looks at me, knowing the stubborn ass I am, and starts telling everything she knows.
Apparently, Jasper just recently finalized his divorce from his wife of three years. The Whitlocks own a large farm on the outskirts of town. So, Jasper decided to move back to help out and gain some perspective. He's been here a couple of weeks. I have no idea how I haven't seen him before today, except for the fact that I only frequent the diner and the grocery store. Emmett just drove in today for a big cattle sale that his family is hosting. He'll be here a couple of weeks getting things ready. He and his wife own a ranch about two hours from here. Waylon says that he's actually here quite a bit. Again, I obviously need to get out more.
Edward, on the other hand, is a little bit of a mystery. My Aunt Sue said she "honest to goodness" doesn't know why he's here. The only thing she knows is that Esme went and visited him for a week or so in Austin a while back. When she came home, she was talking about her visit one afternoon and said that she was worried about him, but she wouldn't say why.
"Order up," Waylon calls from the grill.
Thirty minutes later, the guys have practically licked their plates clean. I brought them their checks and was trying to make a quick getaway when they stood up and started hugging me and passing me around again.
"We'll probably see you tomorrow, Bella," Emmett says, finally releasing me from his grizzly hold.
Before I know what is happening, Edward's two strong arms are around me and it's like the world stops spinning. I can't breathe. My stomach is all the way up in my throat. I don't know what to do with my hands, so I instinctively put them around his waist...his toned, hard-as-a-rock abs press up against me. My head is filled with Edward, the feel of his arms around me, the familiar smell that can only be described as him. I feel like I am coming unglued at the seams.
"It's good to see you, Bella. It's been way too long," he whispers, before leaving me standing there in the middle of the diner.
"See you later, Bella," Jasper calls over his shoulder, as the three of them head out the door.
What was he thinking hugging me like that? Who does he think he is?
He's the one who said goodbye, not me.
This was not ok. This isn't what I came back here for. I'm here to take care of Charlie, that's it.
-Little Town, Texas-
Every day, like clockwork, Edward, Emmett, and Jasper waltz into the diner at noon sharp. They sit down at the same table and I walk over and take their order. Every day the conversation becomes easier. Every day I try to squash the butterflies in my stomach.
I wish Edward would wear some sunglasses or something, so I wouldn't have to look at his deep blue eyes. It's really not fair. They're like his own personal secret weapon. Thanks to the eyes and the smirk, I'm a mess when I'm around him. The smirk, especially, does crazy things to my body. I'm in a constant battle, waring between wanting to either slap it or kiss it off his face. I take precaution and keep my hands in my apron pockets to keep me from doing either.
I try to keep the bulk of my conversations to Jasper and Emmett. They make me remember what I loved about this place - the people. It's funny really, because in my mind all this time, it was the people I thought I was running away from. The busy-bodies and the town gossips, small town, small-minded people. But talking to Emmett and Jasper every day reminds me of the good stuff.
There's a laid-back, slow-paced way to people from the south that you just don't find everywhere. I think at this point in my life, with Charlie being sick, I've come to realize that I don't want life to pass me by. I'd like to savor it, enjoy some small blessing every day. Whether it's my Aunt Sue's cooking, or Charlie having a good day, or watching the clouds pass by; I want to soak it all in.
"We should all get together for drinks or something. Catch up..." Edward says when I walk over with their check. He had mentioned me joining them at the Cullen Ranch for dinner last week, but I quickly shot that down. I could see the disappointment in his eyes, but I know me...I know me with Edward. As hard as I've tried to forget, I haven't forgotten that. If I gave him an inch, I would give him a mile. Dinner with all of them at his house would end up with me wanting him, giving into him. Hell, I don't even know what he wants from me, but I know whatever it is, I would give it to him. Dinner wouldn't be enough for me. I would want more.
Right now, my focus is on Charlie and getting him better. I can't let myself get distracted. Besides, I still don't know why he's here or for how long. With my luck, I'd fall hard and then he'd be gone. I said goodbye to him before. I know how much that hurts and I've got enough heartache in my life right now without that.
"I can't. I'm away from Charlie all day, so I like to get straight home when I leave here."
"I understand." Of course he does. Why does he have to be so sweet? Why can't he say something mean...something to piss me off? It would make this a whole lot easier on me. "Maybe some other time?"
I nod. Not trusting myself to open my mouth.
"You have to promise me we'll get together before I leave," Emmett says, standing up from the table. "And, I'll be back in town next month. I think Rosie is going to come down with me. We should definitely all get together then. I would love for the two of you to meet," his eyes have an extra twinkle to them as he talks about his wife. She's a lucky girl.
"I'd like that," I say it because I know that it will get them to leave, but I also mean it. I really would like to meet Rosalie. If she stole Emmett's heart, she must be pretty great.
"Don't work too hard, Bella," Jasper says, giving me a quick kiss on my cheek. Always the charmer, that one. If I didn't think of Jasper as a brother, I'd be completely smitten with him. Whoever the girl is that screwed things up with him is an idiot, that's for sure.
I wave to them as they walk out and let out a deep breath, blowing my hair away from my face.
"Seems as though you have some regular admirers."
"Regular customers," I correct my Aunt Sue. "And besides, they come here for your cooking. So, I'd say they're your admirers."
"Uh huh, keep tellin' yourself that," she raises her eyebrows and twists her mouth into a lopsided grin.
I don't even respond to that, instead I busy myself with cleaning tables from the lunch rush. I can't let my mind go there. Not today, anyway.
-Little Town, Texas-
I walk out the backdoor of the diner and slide down the wall. Tears flow freely down my face. I just can't keep it in any longer. I feel like if I try to put on a brave face for another second today, I'm going to crumble in on myself. For the most part, I usually feel strong. I know that I have to be for Charlie's sake. The doctor's told us when he first was diagnosed that most people who pull through this type of illness have a strong will to live. So, I never want him to think that I doubt he'll recover, because I don't want him to ever doubt it himself. My hope is that he'll be in remission one day. We can't ever give up hope.
But, he had a bad day yesterday. We had driven to the hospital for his weekly chemo treatment and he was really sick. By the time we got home and I helped him to his room, he was so weak that he couldn't even swing his legs into bed. I sat up with him all night, with the sick bucket at his bedside. It's the same bucket that he always brought into my room when I was sick, just in case I couldn't make it to the bathroom.
Occasionally, through the night, I would feel his forehead and put a cool washcloth on him or tuck his blankets in tighter, depending on whether he felt hot or cold. It was a long night.
So, today, I'm tired and sad and I'm just not feeling so strong. Today, I feel like crying.
The tears feel cleansing.
I really do hope that my Aunt Sue doesn't follow me out here though, because I don't want her to see me like this. It's hard on her, too. It's hard on all of us.
I start to feel a little selfish for having this momentary breakdown, but it just feels good to let it all out.
The door squeaks and I quickly wipe the tears off of my face.
"You ok?"
That's not the voice I expected.
"I'm fine."
"You sure about that?" He doesn't wait for an answer or ask permission or anything, he just sits down right beside me. "You know you can talk to me, Bella."
We sit there for awhile, neither of us saying anything, until I can't stand the silence any longer. I start by telling him the first thing that comes to my mind...the thing that has been plaguing me for the last few weeks.
"You said goodbye."
"You're the one who said goodbye, not me. Now, you come walking in here and act like nothing's wrong. You're so nice to me," I let out a small growl of frustration, "and you make me feel things that I haven't felt in a really long time."
I stand up, feeling the need to move around. The tears are flowing again. "You have no idea what you do to me." I turn around, holding my chest, like I'm keeping my heart from breaking again, pleading with him to understand how I feel. "It took me almost the entire time I've been gone to get you outta my head and here you come walking right back in. Why can't you just be like any other ex-boyfriend? Why can't you be mean or say something to piss me off? Anything? Just..."
Edward stands quickly, and puts his finger up to my lips, silencing my rambling outburst. My heart is beating quickly, partly from my emotions, but mostly from his touch. It's always been that way.
"I said goodbye, because I wanted you to be happy," he says, quietly, barely above a whisper. "I knew you wanted to get outta this place and stretch your wings. You have no idea how hard it was for me. But, I knew that if we stayed together, there was a chance you wouldn't leave at all or that you'd come back too soon." He shakes his head, like he can't find the right words. "Trust me, Bella, I always hoped you'd come back, but not before you were ready and I would not have wished for these circumstances to be what brought you back here." He tucks a loose strand of hair behind my ear and his thumb brushes gently across my cheek.
I just stare at him for the longest time. It is hard for me to understand his words and his reasoning.
"You broke up with me...for me? I don't understand," voicing my confusion.
"My momma always told me that if you love someone enough you'll let them go and if it's meant to be they'll come back to you." He shrugs his shoulders. "And to be honest, I was afraid that a long distance relationship would be too hard. I was young, too, you know. I had a lot of learnin' to do."
"Did you?"
"Did I what?"
"Did you learn stuff?"
"You could say that," he answers. And there's that smirk.
"What brought you back here now? My Aunt Sue seems to know everyone's business but yours."
"Well, since we're airin' dirty laundry, I guess I should be honest."
I nod in response. "Yeah, I've always appreciated honesty."
He smiles, and I feel it straight down to my toes.
"My mom was in Austin last month and she told me how bad Charlie was," he starts, gathering my hands in his. "I know you might not believe me, Bella, but I've always asked about you and wondered how you were. My mom has always been good to keep me up to date. So, she told me that you had been back for his surgery and I just had a feeling in my gut that you'd be back here for awhile. I've actually wanted to come back here, myself, for some time now, but I couldn't until I knew I could set up practice and have a good go at it. You know how all these old farmers are; they stick with what they know and it's hard to earn their business."
"Yeah, but you're Edward Cullen. That's gotta mean something."
"It does, but it still doesn't mean that they'd leave Doc Johnson for me."
"I heard he passed away earlier this year," I shake my head, feeling sadness wash over me again. He was a good man, the best vet in the county. Anytime we had a sick horse or cow, he was always there, johnny on the spot.
"I hate monopolizing on the loss of good person, but I knew that now was my chance. When my mom mentioned you coming back here, it was like all the stars were lining up. I didn't want to miss my second chance."
His confidence shocks me. I don't know why it should. He's always been confident and sure of himself. Those are a couple of qualities that made me love him so much when we were in high school.
Our eyes are locked on each other. I can tell he is gauging my reaction to his words. He finally continues.
"I know I might should be, but I'm not sorry, Bella." The only thing I see reflected in his eyes and his expression are honesty and sincerity, and I'm finding it hard to breathe. "Being away from you has only made me realize just how special you are. I've missed you so much over the years and I've wanted to get in touch with you. I always thought we'd run into each other or something. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I wouldn't see you until now." He pauses, taking a breath and swallowing hard.
"I'm partly to blame for that," I say, feeling guilty all of a sudden. "When I've been home, which hasn't been a lot, I've stayed at the farm. I would come into the diner, but I'd wait for closing time or early mornings to make my visits. Usually, I was here for a couple of days and then I'd leave again. I'm not sure why, but I tended to avoid running into people." I finally take a chance and look up at him, his blue eyes looking at me so intently.
"Why is that? You know, we've all missed you, not just me. You've been the topic of conversation more than once over the years. We've all wondered about you, worried about you, thought about where you were. I mean, we knew where you were..."
"My Aunt Sue." I roll my eyes, knowing that she had probably kept them properly informed of my whereabouts. She is always quick to brag about her niece that went off to California and graduated from Stanford...with honors. She can never leave that part out.
"I just figured you were searching for something and when you found it, you'd be back."
That's funny. I always felt like what I was searching for was thousands of miles away from here, but in this moment, it seemed like what I've been searching for was standing right in front of me.
"Did you find what you were searching for? Are you...or were you happy in California?"
"I thought I was." The words come out of my mouth before I even have time to think about them, which means they must be true. "And yes, I found what I was searching for, I guess. I mean, I went to school and got a degree...lived in a tiny apartment, just like I always wanted. So, if that's what you're asking, then yes, I found what I was searching for."
"But, being here makes me realize that I've missed this place and I miss small town life...and the people, I miss the people most of all."
"Did you miss me?"
That was the question of the moment. Did I miss him? Hell yes, I miss him...I've missed him every second of every day, but do I tell him that? Does that make me desperate or pathetic?
"Honesty, right?"
He nods, his eyes piercing me. The atmosphere around us is tingly and thick. I can't take my eyes off of him and I want to touch him so bad. I want to run my hands down his well-worn t-shirt, feel his strong muscles underneath, feel his hair between my fingers, and...he's waiting on my answer. Shit.
"Yeah," I breathe out. "I've missed you."
There's a spark in his eyes and I feel him looking at my lips, silently asking.
"I thought I'd find you out here!" The door opens and my Aunt peeks her head out. When she sees us, she starts backing out of the doorway. "Oh, sorry! Don't mind me. I'm just going back to the kitchen..." She continues to mumble something that I'm probably glad I can't hear, as she goes back inside.
"I really should get back in there." I fidget with my apron, not knowing what to do at this point.
"I'd really love if we could talk some more, catch up." He pauses, just staring at me. "You sure you're alright?"
"Yeah," I squeak out.
"Was that an answer to my first or my second question?"
"Both." I was better, thanks to him, and I'd really like to finish this, whatever this is.
"Really?" The shock is evident in his voice.
"Yeah." I seem to have lost my immense vocabulary. I've been reduced to one syllable responses. Edward did that. He made me forget to breathe sometimes.
I step around him and head back into the diner. The lunch rush is starting and I bet my Aunt Sue is ready to string me up, except I'm sure that she is more than happy about what she walked up on outside...maybe that'll save me.
"Everything alright, Darlin'?" Waylon's expression is concerned, as he looks up at me.
I smile at him and nod my head. He walks around the counter and pulls me into a hug. "It's ok to have a bad day, kiddo. We all have them." I lean into the hug, wrapping my arms around his waist.
"Thanks, Waylon."
My Aunt walks in with an empty tray, and her face turns up into a warm smile when she sees us. I notice that their eyes meet. I wish they would just throw in the towel and quit pretending that they don't love each other, I mean, in a romantic kind of way, because we all know they do. I'm going to have to take matters into my own hands one of these days, if they don't.
"You've got a table of regulars waitin' on you out there," she winks at me, setting the tray down on the counter.
-Little Town, Texas-
"I don't need you fussin' over me."
"Yes, you do."
"Don't argue with me, Isabella Marie." Charlie can still put me in my place with those two words. Even at twenty-five, the minute he says my first and middle name together, he has my complete attention. There was a day when I would argue with him until the cows come home, but not today, if he really doesn't need me this evening, I have somewhere else I'd like to be.
"Well, you have to promise that you'll call me if you start feelin' bad at all. I'll just be over at The Cullens, only a few miles away," I look up as I slide into my flip flops and grab my truck keys off the table. I know my Aunt Sue will call him and possibly even stop by, but I need him to promise me he'll call if he needs anything. I have to have his word on that or I'll worry the entire time I'm gone.
I stand in the doorway staring at him, as he flips the channels on the TV from his recliner.
"I promise," he huffs, never looking up. I know he hates me to hover and I try not to, but it's hard.
"Be safe," he hollers out as I walk out the door.
"Always am," I holler back.
About ten minutes later, I'm pulling down the long gravel drive that leads up to the Cullens house. They live on a large ranch, just like the majority of people that live in this town. It doesn't matter if you're a doctor, lawyer, or mechanic; more than likely, you have some land with cattle. It's just what we do; it's in our blood to work the land.
I'm not exactly sure what I'm doing here, but after my talk with Edward last week, I've wanted nothing more than to see him and spend more time with him. This was a good excuse. Esme stopped by the diner and invited me to a bonfire. It's seemed harmless and since the invite came from her and not Edward, I couldn't turn it down. I love Esme; I wouldn't want to hurt her feelings.
I step out of the truck and I can smell the wood burning. I hear people talking and the sound leads me around to the back of the house.
"Bella! I'm so glad you came!" Esme hurries over and pulls me in for a hug. She's always been such a wonderful hostess, always making her company feel welcome. I used to love to spend time out here when we were in high school. If we were watching a movie, she would make us popcorn in this old-fashioned popcorn popper. She was definitely the cool mom. Everyone wanted to spend time out here. I think that was her motive...she's sneaky.
"Edward and Jasper have been out feeding the cows. I bet they're in the barn putting the horses up. Would you mind going out there and telling them dinner is ready?"
"No problem."
She gives me a knowing smile, as I turn around to walk off. Like I said, sneaky.
I take inventory of the guests as I pass by and see a few people I recognize from town, but they're all parents of friends I graduated with. I wave as a few people acknowledge me, but continue walking out toward the barn.
When I get there, I pause by the opening, watching. Edward is putting his horse in the stall and when he turns, I see that his shirt is completely unbuttoned, leaving his chest bare and visible. His jeans and boots are dirty and his face is sweaty.
He is a sight to behold.
I swallow hard and think about turning around and going back to the house, pretending like I saw nothing. I'll just tell Esme that they weren't here.
I want to leave, but my feet won't budge. I don't want him to know I'm watching him, but I can't take my eyes away. His skillful hands wind up the rope he was using and hang it on a hook outside the stall. The horse neighs and sticks its head out of the open door. Edward walks up to it and strokes its head, talking to it softly. I love his tenderness. He's always been that way, with people and with animals. I miss it. I miss him.
"See something you like?"
I let out a squeal, before I realize what I'm doing. Whirling around, covering my mouth, I see Jasper standing right behind me. I have no idea how long he's been there, but he scared the ever living shit out of me. Damn him.
My eyes grow wider when I hear Edward's melodic laugh coming from behind me.
Shit. Shit. Shit.
"Um, Esme sent me out here. She said that dinner is ready." I make my statement and promptly walk off, leaving them behind me. I know they're laughing at me and probably talking about me, but I'd rather not hear it. So, I walk quickly until I'm back at the house.
"Everything ok, dear? You look a little flushed," Esme says, softly patting my cheek.
"Oh, fine. Everything is fine. I just, um, I told Edward and Jasper that dinner was ready. And, uh, they're almost finished. I'm sure they'll be right here."
She eyes me cautiously, recognizing my nervous ramble, I'm sure. "Ok, sweetie. Well, can I get you something to drink then?"
"Water would be great. Thank you."
Esme goes off to get me some water and I sink down into one of the chairs on the patio.
"Bella, it's so good to see you. How's Charlie?" Carlisle asks, walking up and sitting down beside me.
"Hey, Dr. C! It's good to see you!" I lean over and give him a hug. Just as I'm getting ready to give him an update on my dad, Edward and Jasper are walking up toward the house. They're obviously still laughing at my expense, or possibly something else. Both of them have the most boyish grins on their faces, their smiles reaching their eyes.
"Those two are obviously up to no good, as usual," Carlisle says, smiling at them and giving them a wave.
"You two hurry inside and clean up. We're starving," Esme tells them, sitting a glass of water down in front of me.
"Thank you, Esme."
She smiles sweetly at me and walks over to visit with a few of her other guests.
I continue my conversation with Carlisle, telling him about Charlie's last chemo treatment and how he's been feeling this week. He listens to me and gives me some feedback. Talking with him is so reassuring. He tells me that it's normal to feel weak after the treatments and that the last time he checked Charlie's levels, everything was looking as good as could be expected. I don't know why, but he just gives me some peace of mind and I feel much better after our talk.
"Let's eat!" Esme exclaims, walking over and taking the cover off of the dishes she has out on a long table. I look up to see Edward standing there in a clean shirt.
Everything looks delicious.
His sleeves are rolled up to his elbows, putting his muscular forearms on display, and his eyes are more piercing than normal as he stares across the table at me, like I'm the meal.
I feel my insides ignite, heat building between my legs. This is going to be a long night. If I'm not already a hot mess from the heat of the bonfire, I will certainly be one if Edward keeps looking at me like that. A knowing smirk flashes across his face, as he rakes a hand through his bronze hair, and if I'm not mistaken, a groan slips past those perfect lips.
The entire evening is spent in that same fashion - Edward looking at me, me looking at Edward. The atmosphere feels charged, but, thankfully, the conversation remains light. We talk about Austin and California. Jasper opens up a little bit about his divorce. A few of the other people join in the conversation and ask about Charlie. I try to keep my answers upbeat and positive, but I catch Edward giving me a sad look. I'm sure he's remembering the break down that he walked up on last week.
When the bonfire finally dies down and everyone is saying their goodbyes, I look over at Esme and thank her for inviting me. She hugs me tight and tells me that if Charlie or I need anything, I'm to call her. Carlisle says the same thing. I hug him and thank him for everything. "No need to thank me, Bella. It's the least I can do." I give him a small smile of appreciation.
"I'll walk you to your truck," Edward says, somewhere in between a statement and a question. I nod in agreement.
"Bye, Jasper." He gives me a classic Jasper hug; they're not quite as constricting as Emmett's, but they're close. I laugh a little, squeezing him back. "If you ever need to talk, I'm here to listen," I whisper. "Same goes for you, Bells," he whispers back and kisses my cheek.
I don't know why I ever thought I wanted to leave this place. I need these people and they need me.
Edward and I walk quietly out to my truck. The night air is warm and there isn't a breeze in sight. I look up at the stars and admire what I see. You just cannot beat a clear Texas sky, especially at night. The Milky Way is on full display.
"Beautiful," Edward says in a quiet voice.
"It really is, isn't it?" I look over at him to see that he's not looking at the sky. He's looking at me.
"I'd like to take you on a date."
I turn and lean against the door of my truck. Edward puts his arms on either side of me and he's so close, if I were to lean in, our lips would be touching. I want that. I lick my lips, thinking about it.
"Would you go on a date with me?" His voice is low and sultry.
"I'd like that," I breathe out, not able to make my voice louder than a whisper.
"How about Sunday night?"
He leans in closer, pausing. His lips are slightly parted and his eyes are on mine. I don't back away, telling him that I want it, without saying a word. Slowly, his lips brush mine. He breathes in deeply at the contact. My eyes automatically shut, as I lose myself in the moment and the feel of Edward's lips on mine.
"Perfect." The word comes out as a response to his question, but there is more behind it than that. He feels perfect. This feels perfect.
-Little Town, Texas-
"Where are we going, Edward?" It was driving me crazy not knowing where we were headed. He blindfolded me with a bandana before we drove away from my house. For a few minutes, I knew exactly where we were. I know every inch of the gravel road from my house to the main road. I could drive it myself with this blindfold on. But then, he starts messing me up. He takes a left, like he might be going to his house, and then he drives a few minutes and turns around. I can tell he makes a u-turn by the sharpness of the turn. There aren't many places we can go in the little town, but I'm definitely stumped.
"You know, it's ok for you to not know where we're going. You trust me, right," his smooth voice taking over all my senses.
"Yes," I answer, quickly, confidently. I do trust him. A few weeks ago, I might not have answered with such fervor. Our past had left me unsure of him, of us. But now, more than ever, I know I trust him.
The truck comes to a stop. I know we're in a gravel parking lot or on a gravel road, because I can hear the crunch of the rocks under the tires. That doesn't give a lot away. We could still be anywhere. I mean, over half the town is gravel.
Edward gets out of the truck and then I hear my door open. I instinctively reach out and my hand comes in contact with him, warmth spreads through my body. I always respond that way to Edward's touch. I can't help it. I have tried to will it away, but you just can't will away fate...or destiny...or whatever my Aunt Sue calls this.
He helps me out of the truck and guides me. When he stops to open a door, I immediately know where we are, due to the chiming of the bells as we enter. The diner? Really? He said a romantic date. I figured maybe we were driving out of town somewhere or maybe to the restaurant that is down by the lake, but not the diner.
"Edward," I begin, but quickly shut my mouth. The blindfold drops from my eyes and I scan the room, not believing what I'm seeing. There is just one solitary table in the middle of the dinner and the entire floor is covered in jars with candles lit in them. The table is set for two and there are candles on it as well. As I hear the soft music playing in the background, tears come to my eyes. For the first time in a long time, they're not tears of sadness or from being scared.
I'm happy. I'm genuinely happy.
I'm happy that I'm standing here in this diner that I come to every day. I'm most happy about the person who is standing next to me. No one has done anything this nice for me ever.
"Bella?" Edward turns to me. "Are you disappointed?" There is concern and maybe a little disappointment of his own in his voice. His thumb comes up and brushes a tear off my cheek.
"No, this is beautiful."
"Please don't cry," he says, gently.
"I'm sorry. I've just...I mean...well, this is seriously the nicest, most romantic thing anyone has ever done for me."
A stunning smile breaks out across his face, and his eyes twinkle in the candlelight.
"So, you like it?"
"I love it." I almost say that I love him, but that would be jumping the gun. Slow your roll, Bella.
"Good," he breathes out, a sigh of relief.
He walks over and pulls a chair out for me.
"Please, have a seat. I'll be right back."
While he's gone, I take the chance to look around. Someone went to a lot of work to make this place look like this. I should know, I clean it. Along with the candles covering the floor, there are white Christmas lights on the ceiling. It looks so beautiful and I kinda want to live here.
Edward comes back with plates of food.
"I cooked," he says, setting one down in front of me. "Well, my mom helped, but I did most of the work. She just made the raviolis. I found out I really suck at making raviolis. You like raviolis, right? And mushrooms? Shit. I guess I should have asked you before..."
His little rambly rant he has going on is adorable, but I can't let him suffer.
"I love it, Edward. I love ravioli and I love mushrooms. This all looks amazing."
Finally, he sits down and we eat, and drink wine, and talk like seven years never passed. I watch him across the table, telling a story about college. I love the story, but I love watching him more. I love the way the corners of his eyes crinkle when he smiles. It's like his whole face lights up. I love the way he brushes his hand through his hair when he's nervous or he doesn't know what to say. I love the way his eyes look back at me. He sees me, more than any human on this planet. I know this is headed somewhere good.
"What are you thinking about?" he asks.
"I was just thinking about how I'm glad you're sitting across the table from me. You know, I didn't come back here expecting to see you. I guess I figured if I was going to run into you, I would have over the last seven years. It seemed like it wasn't meant to be. Actually, I was beginning to think that love wasn't meant to be, for me, at least. I think I've spent the last seven years comparing every guy I met to you."
He reaches across the table and rubs soft circles on my hand.
"I know twenty five is really young to give up on love, but honestly, it wasn't even on my radar. Until..."
"Until what?"
"Until you walked in here and sat down."


text:
First CAFOD aid reaches Haiti earthquake survivors
Less then 24 hours after the 7.0 earthquake hit Haiti, CAFOD has been able to quickly deliver aid to the survivors. In an email to CAFOD's Humanitarian team in London, CAFOD partner Caritas Haiti described their emergency response so far, but highlighted that people are still in urgent need of food, medical supplies and clean water.
On Wednesday (13th January) Caritas staff conducted a two hour visit to the devastated areas of the capital Port-au-Prince to determine what the immediate needs were. During that assessment tents, blankets and food were distributed to families. The team were also able to give basic first aid to survivors at clinics and hospitals.
Joseph Jonides Villarson, Head of Emergencies for Caritas Haiti, said: "We are working night and day, but now we have no more supplies so we call on the solidarity of the network of dioceses to also send materials.
"The immediate needs include: temporary shelter, blankets, clothes, water and food first aid equipment, torches and batteries and trauma counselling."
Large numbers of injured are seen all over the capital. Many people are still buried in the rubble. People are being taken to hospital, but the medical teams can barely cope. Joseph Jonides Villarson said: "The hospitals are overwhelmed with the dead and injured. The risk of disease is great."
CAFOD partner Caritas Haiti described the streets and public spaces as full of people setting up makeshift camps as they do not know where to go. From time to time the area continues to feel aftershocks which adds to their distress and suffering.
Caritas Haiti President, Bishop Pierre Andre Dumas of Anse-a-Veau et Miragoane has appealed on radio Signal FM for calm and solidarity, as reports of some looting in the commercial areas of Port-au-Prince have been received as people desperately go in search of food.
In a statement, The Archbishop of Westminister, the Most Rev Vincent Nichols, said: "The news from Haiti is so distressing...this will be a long-term aid and reconstruction effort. I urge people to find ways of giving practical expression, through aid charities and agencies."
CAFOD partners will continue to undertake assessments at community level, assessing the numbers of dead and injured, material losses and ensuring that emergency humanitarian aid reaches the most vulnerable in the worst affected areas.
To donate to CAFOD see: cafod.force.com/donate?id=70180000000FgYo

subset: commoncrawl


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SystemConsole-ihub3.exe and software distribution site
edited May 2016 in Designing Analytics Reports
According to the following documentation: http://developer.actuate.com/be/documentation/Manualsihub3/install-ihub-windows.pdf
in order to install the SystemConsole-ihub3.exe it must be downloaded from the software distribution site.
However there is no mention of where the software distribution site is? I contacted actuate via phone and they just sent me around to different extensions until I gave up the 4th time they transferred me.
Does anyone know where the software distribution site is? I went to the actuate download page but there is no reference to that executable?
Thanks in advance for your input.
oops , just realized I posted this in the wrong forum but cant move it to the ihub forum or delete it. Maybe mods can move it?


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Today's dailycandy spotlighted Frittelli's Doughnuts that just opened in Beverly Hills, with 40 varieties including lemon poppyseed, Vermont maple, green apple fritter, and other high-brow sounding donuts.
If you ask me, I think the cupcake scene is getting a little tired (do you agree?). I'm wondering if donuts are going to make a comeback... weighing weight consciousness vs. fact that americans really aren't all that weight conscious, that consumers are always going after gentrified fads, and donuts have that retro appeal going for them.
Do you think an upscale donut shop in Beverly Hills might be the start of the next old-is-new thing?


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Thanks to Telugu Audience For Making Gruham A Super Hit- Siddharth
Hero Siddharth played the lead role alongside Andrea Jeremiah in... Read more →
India's most successful female tennis player Sania Mirza on Thursday revealed that she will hang up her racquet after getting married.
Sania, who got engaged to childhood friend Sohrab Mirza in July 2009, did not elaborate when she plans to marry but said she will bid adieu to the game after tying the nuptial knot.
"As of now, I don't intend to play professionally after marriage but that is still some time away," Sania said.
Before getting engaged to the Indian tennis diva, Sohrab had said that Sania will have complete freedom in making her career decisions.
"She has my complete support and backing in whatever she wishes. It is completely her decision for how long she wishes to play," Sohrab had said in June.
So when asked if it was purely her decision to quit the game after marriage, Sania's father Imran Mirza said, "It's her decision for now. If later she decides to play after marriage, its her choice."
Ever since turning pro in 2003, Sania has been the face of Indian tennis on the WTA circuit.
She also became India's first female Grand Slam winner when she won the Australian Open mixed doubles title with compatriot Mahesh Bhupathi last year.
Sania's start to the 2010 season though was far from impressive as she lost in the second round of the Auckland event, followed by a first round defeat at the Hobart event but the Hyderabadi is hardly perturbed.
"I think after competing for seven years as a professional and ranked five years in the singles top-100, I've reached a stage in my career where my performance cannot be judged on the basis of one or a few tournaments," she said.
"Wins and losses are part of the game and in a truly global sport like tennis where more than 220 countries compete seriously, except for the top-10 players, nobody wins too consistently," Sania added.
All that the Indian wants now is to stay away from injuries in the new season. Her wrist injury in 2008 had forced her to spend half the year out of court.
"I am approaching 2010 like any other year. I expect to continue to work hard, try my very best and leave the rest to God. I would like to stay away from any serious injuries during 2010," she said.
Talking about the year gone by, Sania says she is happy with the way she performed in 2009 although there were only a few moments of glory for her.
Apart from the triumph at the Australian Open which was followed by the final appearance in Pattaya and a win over Shahar Peer were the only high points of Sania's stay on the tour, last season.
However, the Indian said after losing many a weeks due to pain, the results achieved were satisfactory.
"As a matter of fact, I did play the semifinals in singles in Birmingham and Osaka and won an ITF title in USA besides making the final of a USD 100,000 event in Canada.
"I had singles wins over players like Bartoli and Shahar Peer. Apart from this, I won a doubles title in Ponte Vedra Beach.
"I finished at a singles ranking of 57 after having dropped to the 120's following my wrist injury. I also had to skip several weeks due to the niggling pain. So, under the circumstances, I'm reasonably happy with my performance," she said.


text:
Sioux Indians captured Rachel Haynes two years ago, then traded her to the peaceful Arapaho tribe. Rachel hasn't seen another white person for ages, so when the Barkleys show up to trade, she longs to rejoin her people. But will the young warrior to whom she has been promised see reason in giving her to the white man?
Matthew Barkley knows the Lord has something planned for his future. After meeting Rachel he begins to wonder if the Lord wants him to settle down. Will being robbed and attacked cause his devotion to waver? Will Rachel see that she belongs with the Barkley family? Can Rachel and Matthew trust the Lord to preserve their love through the trails that lie ahead?


text: This summer my wife and I purchased 300 points for the Disney Vacation Club. Our first trip was in September where we spent time at Saratoga and Old Key West. Our stay at Saratoga was excellent 9 out of 10. -1 because of the construction mess. Old Key West on the other hand was a different story. The check in process and lobby was excellent. But the long walk to our run down studio gave me a bad impression. We opened the door to a stale odder of mildew. As we unpacked we noticed the bathroom had not been cleaned. There was hair all over the floor and shower. Later that day we also noticed black beetles crawling around in the shower. On arriving back that night from Downtown, a green lizard was on the door. As we approached it crawled into a crack in the siding into the studio (maybe the cause of the strong odder). Please let me know if we had bad luck or if the report isn't being taken care of. In my opinion all DVC resorts should receive the same attention to detail, regardless of its age. Thanks, Cruise King


text:
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Design plus words, letters, and/or numbers
Lubricating oil for motor vehicle engines; lubricating oils and greases; motor oils
Business in MIAMI, FL


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Slider Post
Easter Recipe
As customs and traditions flourish throughout Easter, Greek food carries its own impressive distinction and symbolism (i.e. eggs relate to rebirth, lamb to sacrifice, cake/bread to fertility, etc.). Much is said about Cretan culinary traditions during Easter. One thing...
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Aegean's inherent values
When you hear Protected Destination of Origin what exactly comes to mind? Because PDO is used to denote much more than origin. It embodies a product's qualities; qualities that are attributed solely to a particular geographical location. In fact,...
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High-5 to health
What is now promoted all over the world as a lifelong standard for health and wellbeing is nothing more than the norm to the residents of the Aegean islands, who have access to the finest and freshest foods the...
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Trending NOW FOOD
In a fast-track world, few things will ever remain static; eating habits are not an exception to the rule. As new culinary trends appear, consumer preferences shift, habits adapt and food gets redefined.
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A story in wraps
Street Food ‒ready to eat food or drink prepared and sold on the street, in a market, a fair or other public place‒ is for everyone. It makes no distinction for social class, origin, age or gender. It brings...
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Food blogging may be a relatively new thing for Greeks, but it is definitely a practice "well-done!" Whether to introduce new and innovative ideas, varied ingredients and techniques, or merely to help sustain our nutritional heritage, Greek food bloggers...
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sympossible or Not?
In fact, a symposium, "sympossio" in Greek , was a social event for the purposes of drinking, dining and intellectual discussion among ancient Greeks. Symposia go all the way back to Greek antiquity. Fortunately, over the years, there have been numerous excavation findings which have provided us with a wealth of knowledge about...
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DIVING WITH SCANDALOPETRA, the oldest freediving principle in the world
In July 2016, the island of Karpathos organized the International Freediving Competition with Skandalopetra, an international tournament attracting Greek and foreign athletes, attempting to revive an amazing athletic achievement.
Ambassadors Quotes
"As an athlete, I used to travel for many years around the world representing my country with will, militancy and respect. Sport is a very big part of our culture. But Greece has also other aspects that should be known abroad. Greek Gastronomy is one of the best in the world and I feel honoured to be part of this expedition and spread the "taste" of our Greek islands all over the world."


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Complaint Review: Velocity Express
- Velocity Express
817 Arnold Drive Martinez
United States of America
- Phone:
- Web: velocityexpress.com
- Category: Chauffeurs
Velocity Express Velocity Express Velocity lacks the very principle of American company, it lacks American ethic that is honesty, integrity, transparency, loyalty, and respect. Internet
1. They tell you they will pay you $110 a day regardless you make delivery or not
2. They mislead you and promise to pay you 55% of the delivery fact .55 per mile
3. They will tell you there is no deduction or tax deducted from your cheek fact $95.05 per week
4. They will tell you that you have to buy commercial insurance- true cost $130 per month
5. They also subject you to drug test, that will deduct from your paycheck true
6. Require you to get five uniform and deduct from your pay check regardless true
They will tell you that you will work/ on call 12 hours a day 7 days a week so you would calculate how much you
would be making. 110X7= $770 and 770X4= $3080 a month should be the amount you would be making if they pay the promised $110 a day. They also told me to pay me 55% on my delivery but that is not true. In fact in
California the law requires employers to pay a minimum of .55 cent per mile but on the hiring process they will mislead you to get you in the door. On average you would be getting 5-7 dollar per delivery better than nothing. But they would show you on paper and dont pay you.
In my calculation if you work for Velocity express the actual money you earn is $5 an hour and $60 dollar for 12 hours of work/ on call. Hence the actual money you earn a month is $1810 (excluding state and federal tax at the
end of the year)
Here is how I get to this number:
You work 360 hours a month
Car mileage (value depreciates) $90, oil change $30, maintenance $40, gas $600 and commercial car insurance $130 when you add all up $890 expenses a month
They told me no deduction tax or other ways but when I received my paycheck they deducted for the drug test they requested, they deducted for five Uniforms that I havent received and a permanent weekly deduction that are not explained or communicated on the interview
When you add all this up $95.05X4=$380
$380 unexplained monthly deduction +$890 monthly expense = $1270 total expenses
$3080 the amount I was promised excluding mileage pay -$1270 total expense and total deduction = $1810 the amount I earn for working 360 hours a month
You will work 360 hours a mouth and you make $1810. Your hourly pay is $5 without including you state, federal tax that you need to pay by the end of the year. When you deduct your state and federal tax you would be making somewhere around $4 an hour.
I respect any business that has the guts to start a business and make it happen. I have great respect and
admiration for those with passion and derive to make their business succeed and create job opportunity for many. It is honorable and must be supported. What I dont respect is misleading, manipulating, and cheating to stay in business. Why Velocity misleads people to a point where they have to keep their office door locked even in the normal business hours? The management of velocity chose to focus cost cutting measures must be found in labor cost and various financial and legal skims rather than looking outward for better opportunity and expanding market share for example. As a result by any account
Velocity is a dyeing company because of it. This company is the worst company by all stretch of imagination. I will not advise any American to work for this company. This company lacks the very principle of American company, it lacks American ethic that is honesty, integrity, transparency, loyalty, and respect.
Does your business have a bad reputation?Corporate Advocacy Program™Fix it the right way.
Set the record straight:Arbitration Program
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text:
We tested the hypothesis that sympathetic responses to baroreceptor unloading may be affected by circulating sex hormones. During lower body negative pressure at −30, −60, and −80 mmHg, muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA), heart rate, and blood pressure were recorded in women who were taking (n = 8) or not taking (n = 9) hormonal contraceptives. All women were tested twice, once during the low-hormone phase (i.e., the early follicular phase of the menstrual cycle and the placebo phase of hormonal contraceptive use), and again during the high-hormone phase (i.e., the midluteal phase of the menstrual cycle and active phase of contraceptive use). During baroreceptor unloading, the reductions in stroke volume and resultant increases in MSNA and total peripheral resistance were greater in high-hormone than low-hormone phases in both groups. When normalized to the fall in stroke volume, increases in MSNA were no longer different between hormone phases. While stroke volume and sympathetic responses were similar between women taking and not taking hormonal contraceptives, mean arterial pressure was maintained during baroreceptor unloading in women not taking hormonal contraceptives but not in women using hormonal contraceptives. These data suggest that differences in sympathetic activation between hormone phases, as elicited by lower body negative pressure, are the result of hormonally mediated changes in the hemodynamic consequences of negative pressure, rather than centrally driven alterations to sympathetic regulation.
- muscle sympathetic nerve activity
- baroreceptor unloading
- menstrual cycle
- hormonal contraceptives
- sex hormones
- Copyright © 2016 the American Physiological Society
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text:
Davies, Noel
From Library of Congress Name Authority File
Davies, Noel
Instance Of
Scheme Membership(s)
Collection Membership(s)
Additional Information
Exact Matching Concepts from Other Schemes
- found: Handel, G. F. Julius Caesar [SR] p1985: container (edition by Noel Davies)
- found: Times online WWW site, Apr. 24, 2008 (Noel Davies; b. Jan. 1, 1945, London; d. Mar. 13, 2008, Abergavenny; versatile conductor long associated with English National Opera; with Sir Charles Mackerras he prepared editions of three Handel works)
Change Notes
- 1985-10-08: new
- 2008-04-25: revised
Alternate Formats


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Thanks to new insights from the Spitzer, an infrared space telescope, NASA has discovered seven Earth-sized exoplanets, that is, planets orbiting a star outside our own solar system. This particular collection of planets orbits a dwarf star called the Trappist-1, which is 40 light years away.
Here's a video on what we know about Trappist-1 by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory:
But while our telescope technology has advanced, allowing us to see far reaches of the universe, we don't yet have vehicles that would get us there in a reasonable time frame. To get to any of these planets with our current vehicles would take about 44 million years. NASA has already released a poster about this planetary system, imagining a future in which we might visit the planets for a vacation.
That said, the scientists at a NASA briefing today believe that it is very likely that there is life elsewhere in the solar system.
You can watch a more in-depth video about Trappist-1 here, and explore the surface of Trappist-1d in this NASA VR video.
[Images via NASA]ES


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New Delhi, Nov 29 (UNI) Defending its decision to provide shelter and protection to Taslima Nasreen in India, the government today cautioned the controversial Bangladeshi writer against indulging in any activity that hurt the sentiments of Indians or adversely affected New Delhi's friendly relations with other countries.
Making clarifications on a statement read out in the Rajya Sabha yesterday, External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee told the Upper House that Ms Nasreen's visa had been extended till February 2008, which was in tune with the country's civilisational heritage and national policy.
He, however, made it amply clear that Ms Nasreen, like all those who had been granted shelter in India, would ''eschew political activities...actions which may harm India's relations with friendly countries and refrain from activities and expressions that may hurt the sentiments of our people.'' Strongly condemning those making attempts to denigrate Islam, he said there were adequate provisions in the legal system to deal with the problem.
''If someone tries to disrespect islam, it will be rejected...Law is not helpless in this regard,'' he said.
Mr Mukherjee also pointed out that the right to expression is not an untrammelled proposition as it can be subjected to reasonable restrictions.
Yesterday, Minister of State for External Affairs Anand Sharma had read out the statement in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.
Mr Mukherjee said in line with the civilisational heritage of India, which is ''now government policy'', India would provide shelter to Ms Nasreen.
Referring to the considerable public attention on the issue, he said the Bangladeshi writer had been in India for sometime.
''Throughout our history, India has never refused shelter to those who have come and sought our protection. This civilisational heritage, which is now government policy, will continue and India will provide shelter to Ms Nasreen.'' ''Those who have been granted shelter here have always undertaken to eshcew political activities in India or any actions which may harm India's relations with friendly countries. It is also expected that the guests will refran from activities and expressions that may hurt the sentiments of our people,'' the minister said.


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tap to bring up your browser menu and select 'Add to homescreen' to pin the The News web appGot it!
tap to bring up your browser menu and select 'Add to homescreen' to pin the The News web appGot it!
MADRID: Gareth Bale made an instant impact on his return from injury as Real Madrid extended their lead at the top of La Liga to three points with a 2-0 win over Espanyol on Saturday.
Bale had only been on the pitch 13 minutes after three months on the sidelines due to ankle ligament damage when he swept home into the far corner seven minutes from time to round off a rapid Real counter-attack.
Alvaro Morata had opened the scoring when he bulleted home Isco's cross 12 minutes before half-time.
Elsewhere, Sevilla moved above Barcelona into second thanks to a 2-0 win over Eibar.
Morata was one of those handed a rare chance to start up front with Karim Benzema left out of the squad altogether.
The Spanish international hadn't started any of Real's previous five league games, but made his case for more minutes as he powered home Isco's fine in-swinging cross for his 11th goal of the season.
Atletico Madrid tightened their grip on fourth thanks to a five-minute hat-trick from substitute Kevin Gameiro in a 4-1 win at Sporting Gijon.
The Frenchman was only introduced 28 minutes from time but struck in the 80th, 81st and 85th minutes and dedicated the hat-trick to his recently-deceased grandmother.
Sergio Alvarez had cancelled out Yannick Carrasco's opener early in the second half before Gameiro's late show.


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After days' controversies, it has been cleared in 2016 ICC World Twenty 20 schedule that Pakistan will face his rival India on March 19 in Dharamsal.
International Cricket Council has released the World T20 schedule in ceremony in Mumbai on Friday, in which cricket lovers will enjoy the thrilling series of battles from March 8 to April 3, 2016.
The most-awaited battle of Pakistan and India will be occurred at Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala and we bet you that whole tickets will be selling in minutes.
When it comes to talk about grouping of teams, hosts and the 2007 champions, both has been tagged in Super-10 Group 2 alongside New Zealand, Pakistan, Australia, and Qualifier.
However, the men's competition will be divided into two sessions…. qualifiers and Super 10, while qualifiers will play the matches from March 8 to 13 that based on 8 teams which have been divided into Group A and B, with the Super-10 stage launching on 15 March.
One team from each of the qualifying groups will move ahead to the Super-10 stage, though Super-10 Group 1 consists of teams as West Indies, Sri Lanka, England, South Africa and Group B's Qualifier.
According to ICC World Twenty20 schedule 2016, all matches of the upcoming most-awaited event, will be played in Dharamsala, Bangalore, Kolkata, Mohali, Chennai, Mumbai, Nagpur and New Delhi, though the semi-final matches will be held in Mumbai and New Dehli on 31 March.
ON the other hand, the ICC also declared that if Pakistan reached in semi-finals game, in case its match will be played in New Delhi instead of Mumbai.
The formal proceedings of ICC World Twenty20 matches after After the qualified round, will be battled between New Zealand and India.


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Infection Control. Basic Principals of infection Control. How disease is transmitted and the main ways to prevent transmission. Microorganisms are small living organisms invisible to the naked eye Two types of microorganisms 1. Pathogens 2. Nonpathogens.
Download Policy: Content on the Website is provided to you AS IS for your information and personal use and may not be sold / licensed / shared on other websites without getting consent from its author.While downloading, if for some reason you are not able to download a presentation, the publisher may have deleted the file from their server.
1. Pathogens
2. Nonpathogens
and viruses.
cocci round MRSA, strepthroat
bacilli rods ie. TB, pertussis, botulism
spirilla spirals i.e.. syphilis, cholera
major risk to healthcare workers and are
blood borne:
anaerobic no oxygen
aerobic needs oxygen
inside the body
i.e. tumors, congenital disorders
outside the body
i.e. trauma, electric shock
acquired in healthcare facilities
i.e. Staph MRSA, pseudomonas
infections that only affect the immunosuppressed
i.e. Kaposi's sarcoma, pneumocystis carnii
Direct or Indirect
person to person
contaminated hands
touching contaminated equipment
breathing droplets
insect bites
a way to enter a new host or new reservoir i.e. respiratory tract, breaks in the skin etc.
anyone who can contract the disease
weak immune systems
anyone with a breakdown in defense
Use aseptic technique
Best is hand washing
antiseptics, disinfection, sterilization
Antiseptics used in healthcare alcohol
and betadine


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Surrey, Canada (PressExposure) December 03, 2008 -- A familiar name to thousands of Virtual Assistants around the globe, VAnetworking.com can be seen on StartupNationâs annual Home Based 100 competition list, under the category of Boomers Back in Business.
Started by Baby Boomer Tawnya Sutherland in 2003, today VAnetworking.com is the worldâs largest Virtual Assistant organization with more than 10,000 members. The online community serves as home base for scores of administrative professionals from Australia to Eastern Canada and everywhere in between. Members turn to each other when theyâre facing challenges, need to brainstorm, share successes or just for a sense of belonging to a group of peers.
Many of the StartupNation Home-Based 100 submissions revealed that business owners are bucking the current economic downturn and finding business success in these tight times. This is especially true for members of VAnetworking.com who fill a large need in the marketplace, especially when business owners are tightening their purse strings. Virtual Assistants are an alternative option to hiring a âtraditional employeeâ. A VA works on an as-needed basis and only charges for actual time worked. This is an ideal option for a business owner needing administrative support, but without the budget to support a full time employee.
In addition to StartupNation staff, judges for this yearâs Home Based 100 ranking included Adam Lowry, co-founder of Method Products, Howard Behar, former President of Starbucks North America, John Jantsch, founder of Duct Tape Marketing and Mel Robbins, host of Make It Happen radio show.
StartupNation said, about awarding the Boomers Back in Business award to VAnetworking.com, âBoomers are a whole different ball game than the 20-somethings of today, and that's partly why they make great assistants. They're wise, dependable, and professional, have a pre-dotcom work ethic, and have just enough work experience under their belts to know that working from home rules. VAnetworking.com is a boomer-run business whose success is undeniable. Tawnya Sutherland, based from home of course, has created the world's largest online social network for Virtual Assistants to gather, learn, share, and grow successful virtual assistant practices.
With outsourcing, time management, and home-based business being hot trends of the day, VAnetworking.com fills a great big need and was a clear stand-out winner for the 2008 Boomers Back in Business award.â
Sutherland, a Certified Internet Marketing Specialist, is thrilled with VAnetworking.com receiving top rank for this award. She says, âWinning this award is fabulous for the Virtual Assistant industry. With the exposure VAs will receive by VAnetworking.com being featured on StartupNation, many entrepreneurs will be learning about Virtual Assistance for the first time, and this will open up many opportunities for our members.â
For anyone considering becoming a Virtual Assistant, itâs the perfect time to join http://www.VAnetworking.com â the global meeting place for over 10,000 aspiring and established VAs.
Read more about this honorable mention at [http://www.StartupNation.com/homebased100]


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The Seattle Seahawks are starting look like a Super Bowl-caliber team again, and they should give the young, upstart Tampa Bay Buccaneers a tough test Sunday afternoon at Raymond James Stadium.
The Bucs upset the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 11 to improve their record to 5-5 and pull within a game of the first-place Atlanta Falcons in the NFC South.
Here's how to watch Seahawks vs. Buccaneers online.
When: Sunday, Nov. 27, at 4:05 p.m. ET
Live Stream: NFL Sunday Ticket
Thumbnail photo via Derick E. Hingle/USA TODAY Sports Images
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"The essays are provocative and enhance knowledge of Third World women's issues. Highly recommended... " Choice
"... the book challenges assumptions and pushes historic and geographical boundaries that must be altered if women of all colors are to win the struggles thrust upon us by the 'new world order' of the 1990s." New Directions for Women
"This surely is a book for anyone trying to comprehend the ways sexism fuels racism in a post-colonial, post-Cold War world that remains dangerous for most women." Cynthia H. Enloe"... provocative analyses of the simultaneous oppressions of race, class, gender and sexuality... a powerful collection." Gloria Anzaldúa"... propels third world feminist perspectives from the periphery to the cutting edge of feminist theory in the 1990s." Aihwa Ong
"... a carefully presented wealth of much-needed information." Audre Lorde
"... it is a significant book." The Bloomsbury Review
"... excellent... The nondoctrinaire approach to the Third World and to feminism in general is refreshing and compelling." World Literature Today
"... an excellent collection of essays examining 'Third World' feminism." The Year's Work in Critical and Cultural Theory
These essays document the debates, conflicts, and contradictions among those engaged in developing third world feminist theory and politics. Contributors: Evelyne Accad, M. Jacqui Alexander, Carmen Barroso, Cristina Bruschini, Rey Chow, Juanita Diaz-Cotto, Angela Gilliam, Faye V. Harrison, Cheryl Johnson-Odim, Chandra Talpade Mohanty, Ann Russo, Barbara Smith, Nayereh Tohidi, Lourdes Torres, Cheryl L. West, & Nellie Wong.
Primarily of interest to academics, this collection of 15 essays offers examples of current feminist perspectives on race, class and Third World issues, and thoughts on appropriate approaches to these subjects. M. Jacqui Alexander's ``Redrafting Morality'' examines Trinidad and Togabo's 1986 Sexual Offenses Bill, finding that government has a ``major stake in promoting and defending conjugal masculinity'' and in subordinating women by recognizing them only as ``wives.'' In ``Gender and Islamic Fundamentalism,'' Nayereh Tohidi notes how the position of Iranian women has deteriorated since 1979--despite their active participation in the uprising against the Shah--and concludes that `` the women's question should not be relegated to the days after the revolutionital in text. .'' Russo, in ``We Cannot Live Without Our Lives,'' argues that white feminists should not dismiss racism as ``their'' problem but ``work with women of color as peers . . . which means we must give up sole power and control of feminist organizations, political agendas, and theoretical perspectives.'' The editors are academics who specialize in feminism and women's issues. Photos not seen by PW . (June)


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Complete an online application for a personal loan. Your eligibility for an approval depends on your credit score, income, job history, and other factors.
Personal loans come in many flavors and can help students to finance college expenses, consumers to meet emergency needs, families to afford a car or home, and people with bad credit to consolidate debt and lower monthly payments.


text:
Traveling Luck for Ranch Branch, Texas, United States
Where is Ranch Branch?What's around Ranch Branch?
Wikipedia near Ranch Branch
Where to stay near Ranch Branch
The timezone in Ranch Branch is America/Rankin_Inlet
Sunrise at 07:11 and Sunset at 17:36. It's light
Latitude. 30.8761°, Longitude. -99.3722°
Weather near Ranch Branch; Report from Brady, Curtis Field Airport, TX 43.8km away
Weather :
Temperature: 2°C / 36°F
Wind: 0km/h
Cloud: Sky Clear
Weather :
Temperature: 2°C / 36°F
Wind: 0km/h
Cloud: Sky Clear
Satellite map around Ranch Branch
Loading map of Ranch Branch and it's surroudings
Geographic features & Photographs around Ranch Branch, in Texas, United States
- stream;
- a body of running water moving to a lower level in a channel on land.
- East Ranch Branch (4.3km)
- West Ranch Branch (4.4km)
- Spring Branch (9km)
- Hog Creek (9.7km)
- Ranch Branch (10km)
- Tenmile Creek (10.1km)
- Calf Creek (11.3km)
- Schmidt Branch (11.3km)
- Decker Creek (11.8km)
- Camp Creek (12km)
- Rumsey Creek (14km)
- Rocky Creek (15.2km)
- Dry Fork Katemcy Creek (15.6km)
- Devils Spring (16km)
- Dry Prong Katemcy Creek (16.2km)
- Lick Branch (16.4km)
- Staten Creek (18.4km)
- Greenhead Creek (18.7km)
- Cavin Branch (19.2km)
- Fivemile Creek (20km)
- Hogg Bluff Creek (21.6km)
- Flat Branch (21.7km)
- Little Bluff Creek (21.8km)
- populated place;
- a city, town, village, or other agglomeration of buildings where people live and work.
- Camp Air (11.7km)
- Grit (15.1km)
- Katemcy (15.8km)
- Twentymile Crossing (15.9km)
- Streeter (16.2km)
- Calf Creek (19.2km)
- Hext (19.6km)
- Local Feature;
- A Nearby feature worthy of being marked on a map..
- Ranch Branch (0km)
- Camp Air (11.8km)
- Block House Ranch (12.1km)
- Blue Well Windmill (19km)
- Bridge Windmill (20.8km)
- Long Mountain Community Center (20.9km)
- cemetery;
- a burial place or ground.
- Coffey Cemetery (11.4km)
- Grit Cemetery (16.8km)
- Cavness Cemetery (18km)
- Long Mountain Cemetery (18.9km)
- Jacoby Cemetery (20.3km)
- Camp San Saba Cemetery (22km)
- mountain;
- an elevation standing high above the surrounding area with small summit area, steep slopes and local relief of 300m or more.
- Haystack Mountain (11.3km)
- Double Knobs (11.3km)
- Mason Mountains (11.9km)
- Katemcy Rocks (14.3km)
- Cutoff Mountain (16.6km)
- Purdy Hill (22.2km)
Accommodation around Ranch Branch
- valley;
- an elongated depression usually traversed by a stream.
- Wild South Hollow (10.3km)
- Decker Hollow (11.7km)
- Holland Draw (18km)
- Dead Man Hollow (18.9km)
- Deland Draw (21.7km)
- lake;
- a large inland body of standing water.
- Blue Hole (9.1km)
- Gravel Hole (19.4km)
- Gobal Hole (20.2km)
- airport;
- a place where aircraft regularly land and take off, with runways, navigational aids, and major facilities for the commercial handling of passengers and cargo.
- Smith I-Ranch Airport (15.2km)
- Polk Ranch Airport (21.7km)
- church;
- a building for public Christian worship.
- Bethel Church (12.5km)
- spring(s);
- a place where ground water flows naturally out of the ground.
- Pluenneke Springs (16.1km)
- park;
- an area, often of forested land, maintained as a place of beauty, or for recreation.
Wikipedia entries close to
Ranch Branch
- Mason, Texas city city o
- Brady, Texas city city o
- Brady Creek Reservoir city city o
- Menard, Texas city city o
- Melvin, Texas city city o
- Junction, Texas city city o
- Eden, Texas city city o
- Richland Springs, Texas city city o
- Texas
- Harper, Texas city city o
- Enchanted Rock park
- Llano, Texas city city o
- San Saba, Texas city city o
- Fredericksburg (Texas) city city j
- Paint Rock, Texas city city o
- Lake Bryan city city o
Airports close to Ranch Branch
San angelo rgnl mathis fld(SJT), San angelo, Usa (156.8km)
Robert gray aaf(GRK), Killeen, Usa (195.3km)
Austin bergstrom international(AUS), Austin, Usa (237.1km)


text:
K & C Auto Service
Review for K & C Auto Service
Matt M. on 11/09/2015
Matt said the employees at this business did a quick inspection. He had an easy and convenient experience with them.
Vehicle: Chevrolet Cruze
Category: Service
Service Date: 11/04/2015
Review Created: 11/09/2015
This review was collected via phone interview by Customer Research Inc.


text:
Injuries: key references and evidence
Key references
HSE, Health and Safety Statistics 2016 [699Kb] (2016)
HSE, European Comparisons [439Kb] (2015)
IOBI, Analysis of Inpatient Admissions Data for Serious Injury (2011)
ISD, Unintentional Injuries [547KB] (2016)
Scottish Health Survey [6.7Mb] (2016)
SFRS, Fire and Rescue Statistics, 2015-16, Scotland [4.2Mb](2016)
Transport Scotland, Reported Road Casualties Scotland 2015 (2016)
EuroSafe, Injuries in the European Union, Report on injury statistics 2008-2010 [4.2MB] (2013)
Additional references
Scottish Government, Civil Justice Statistics in Scotland 2013-14(2015)
IOBI, Britain and Ireland Deaths due to Injury (2006)
NHS Health Scotland, Injury in Children (2004)
NHS Health Scotland, RoSPA, Health Education Population Survey Accidents and Safety 1996-2004 [977Kb] (2006)
Child Unintentional Strategy Action Plan for Europe, Child Safety Strategy [717KB] (2007)
Scottish Community Safety Network, Unintentional Injuries in the Home [246Kb] (2012)
Van der Molen HF et al., Interventions to prevent injuries in construction workers(Cochrane Database Syst. Rev. 2012)NHS Health Scotland, Evidence Summary: Public Health Interventions to prevent Unintentional Injuries among the Under 15s [588KB] (2012)
Effectiveness evidence
ScotPHO's purpose is to describe the pattern of health across the Scottish population. As a supplementary service to users, we include the following links to external sources of quality-assured evidence on effectiveness of interventions which may include relevant material for this topic. These links are provided as an aid to users. They are by no means exhaustive nor should they be necessarily viewed as authoritative.
NHS Health Scotland: Scottish briefings on NICE public health guidance
Centre for Reviews and Dissemination
Cochrane Library: Browse by topic
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Evidence services: Evidence search
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Guidance: Find guidance
Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN)
Please note: ScotPHO is not responsible for the content or reliability of linked websites and does not necessarily endorse the views expressed within them. Listing should not be taken as endorsement of any kind. ScotPHO can take no responsibility for information contained on websites maintained by other organisations or for actions taken as a result of information contained on websites maintained by other organisations.


text:
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Sheep industry taught the importance of adding value
Members of the sheep production community learnt about the vitality of adding value by maximising the marketplace at an industry seminar held at the recent National Sheep Association (NSA) event in Malvern.
Delegates heard that finding ways to improve efficiency in farming practices and adding value to the finished product is important to increase returns and sustainability. It is particularly pivotal in the face of market volatility.
"A number of factors are currently affecting the red meat sector; these include the impact of exchange rate and the demand for lamb in export markets, UK red meat sales and consumption levels, and the costs associated with processing fifth quarter products and skin prices," said John Richards, industry information executive at Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC), who joined a panel of experts at the event.
"The ability to respond and react to market fluctuation and changes ultimately decides a business's sustainability and long-term viability and this is true for the sheep sector; at a farm level this could be achieved by adding value to prime lamb and making a conscious effort to meet market and consumer requirements."
HCC outlined its top tips for adding value to prime lamb at farm level. They are:
• To ensure lambs meet market requirements
• To produce and market lambs to a consistent quality
• Control costs in order to increase margins
"Extending the shelf life of lamb would also bring added returns to the supply chain," added Richards.
"As it stands, the average shelf life for Welsh Lamb is 21 days, compared with New Zealand lamb's shelf life of 70 days. HCC is pursuing the issue of shelf life as it is vital for increasing the market value and export potential of PGI Welsh Lamb."
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- lamb
- New Zealand
- sheep
- nsa
- National Sheep Association
- Malvern
- Hybu Cig Cymru - Meat Promotion Wales
- John Richards
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