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I can recall the days when running a 5K seemed dreadful to me, however through training I have grown to enjoy running and seldom run 5K's these days unless they are unique or for a good cause so the Color Vibe fit both of those requirements and the best part was my kids wanted to do this one with me. It was my boys very first 5K and what a great one for them to start off with. The Color Vibe, although a for-profit event, typically donates a part of the proceeds to local charities and really is a fun way to get the kids involved and active. While I was not a fan of the $5 charge to pick up your packet on race day since the pre-packet pick up was so far, I did like the fact that at a certain point of early registration you could register you kids for free, of course you still had to pay the processing fees but they were minimal. I was fortunate enough to have a friend of mine pick up our packets at the designated location as this was far from me, so I was spared paying an additional $25 for my crew.
The days leading up to the race I received several emails from the event staff saying how it was oversold and they were opening up a second event on Sunday and encouraged people to attend that one. I was not able to as I work Sunday mornings so I was preparing myself for a very crowded and hectic day. In addition, the forecast was calling for late morning rain so I decided to try to get there as early as possible even though our official start time was not until 9 am.
The morning of the race, I woke my kids up at 5:30 am, which is no easy task in my house. We all got ready and headed to my friend's house where they got into my car at 6:45 am and stopped for bagels to eat in the car ride down. We arrived at the event approximately 7:20 and met up with another friend and her family. We parked at one of the designated two lots and headed on the yellow school busses that would take us to the event site. Upon arrival, we were told to remember we were on the "pink" busses and needed to re-load on that line in order to be taken to the proper lot at the completion of the race. We disembarked the busses and headed towards the venue.
Although we arrived early, so did thousands of others and the line was unbelievably long and wrapped around the festival area. I was sure this was going to take forever and my fears of an overcrowded race were coming true. We headed over to the ample supply of porta-potty's, which is a must before any race but especially if you have children with you. We then found our way to the back of the rapidly growing line and stood there thinking about how long we would be waiting as the first wave was set to be at 9 and we were so far back it would probably take an hour to just get to the starting line.
While on line, the kids were getting bored and other people were opening up their color packets so we let them open them up and they had a blast getting it all over them, and us! The skies were grey and I began to feel a few sprinkles of rain, but before we knew it, the line started moving. It seemed as though they were starting to let waves off closer to 8:30 then the originally scheduled 9, which was fine by me! The line began to move fairly quickly and we ended up in the starting corral just after 9. As soon as we were allowed to run, we met our first color throw and were off!
The course twisted and turned around the park, some parts of the course on pavement and other parts through grass. In the 3.1 miles there were several "color stations" that had one specific color they would throw at you each. The kids and I played a game of guess the next color. My daughter has some knee issues and her hip and knee began to really bother her so about .25 miles in, I ended up giving her a piggy back ride that lasted most of the race, probably about 2 out of the 3.1 miles. I didn't walk when she was on my back either, but rather kept up a light paced jog to keep up with the others. The funny part is my kids say to me that I should be carrying them on my back because I have "races to train for". I suppose they are right as I end up training every opportunity I get. There was only one water station on the course, about halfway in. As we began to head into the last mile, my son turns to me and asks why I am not tired like he is, and I respond "I run all the time and train to do these" and with a serious face, he looks at me and says, why do you enjoy running so much, this is hard to keep up for this long. I chuckled and told him that the faster he runs, the sooner it is over so he proceeded to run his little legs off with some of the others in our group.
As we approached the finish line, I told everyone that they are running as fast as they can on their own and to meet at the water station just after the finish line. After crossing the finish, we got water and watched some of the awesome dance party going on at the pavilion area. It was so cool when they handed out color packets and then at a certain time had everyone release the color packets. We were full of color and laughing and dancing. It really was a fun experience and although my kids are not necessarily fans of running, they have already asked me to do another one.
I have to admit, although the race had so many participants and I could barely find anyone that I knew there even though there were so many there that I did know, it was very well organized. While on line, the kids were amused. While running I never felt over crowded or like my kids would be trampled. The race was fun and people stopping to take pictures and the color stations really made it fly by. The shuttle service was smooth and I didn't have to walk very far to get to the venue off of the bus when we got there or far back to my car after the race ended. Overall, great experience, fun and I look forward to another one!


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5 Riverview, Gransha Road
5 Riverview, Gransha Road
Detached House
For Sale
View Now
5 bedroom detached
house with gardens to front and back in Buncrana town centre. This house falls
into the much sought after category of 'large family homes in Buncrana town
within walking distance of schools and amenities.' Gransha road is a popular
location for detached homes and its quality as a place to live is highlighted
by the fact that houses rarely come up for sale in this area. All amenities in
Buncrana are within easy walking distance including schools, shops, medical
facilities, chapels, beaches, leisure and sporting facilities. Inside, the
house has great living space downstairs and equally great bedroom space
On entering the
house from the front door, the hallway has neutral tiles with a lovely L shaped
reception room (with open fire) to your left which is bright and spacious. To
the right is a family room with solid fuel stove with back boiler. Again, this
room is bright and well finished. It has double doors leading to the kitchen
which is also neutral in décor. Also, downstairs is a good utility room, back
door to the back garden, bathroom and 1st bedroom.
Upstairs, are 5
large bedrooms of various difference sizes, some with built in wardrobes and en
suites. In summary, the house is large, spacious and bright with neutral
decoration throughout. With its central location in Buncrana town it will be
attractive for those looking for a quality family home in town.
Accommodation and features include:
Built around 1988
Mains water and
Block cavity walls.
Double glazing
Back boiler stove
Garden to front and
Great location
Fitted kitchen 21 x
Living room with
solid fuel stove with back boiler 13'2 x 16'8
L shaped reception
room 14'9 x 23'7
Downstairs bedroom
with built in wardrobe 12 x 8'5
Bathroom 9 x 7'11
Utility room 10'3 x
Upstairs bedroom 1
14'3 x 12'5 (built in wardrobe 14'5 x 7'4)
Upstairs bedroom 2
13 x 11'3
Upstairs bedroom 3
10 x 8'5
Upstairs bedroom 4
9'8 x 16'11
Upstairs bedroom 5
13'2 x 8'8 (en suite 9'10 x 3)
Bathroom 13'2 x 8'8
Further details and appointment to view from sole
selling agent

subset: commoncrawl


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SRM has introduced a new head unit, the PC8. Like all SRM units, it is jam-packed with features, but what sets this unit apart from previous SRM head units is that it records GPS data and speaks not only ANT+ but Bluetooth and Wifi as well. With GPS running, batter life is 30 hours; without, it's 100 hours. It features a noticeably larger screen that can display seven different data point, plus a few handy icons. The new casing is also made from aluminum for improved durability. In addition to tracking all of your ride metrics, it also includes a number of different bike profiles as well, so that you can factor out changes between various bikes. But yes, it's still going to be the most expensive unit on the market, at roughly $870.
Assos has entered the mountain bike apparel market. And of course, they've done it in a way that only Assos would do it. The front of the jersey, with its full zip, looks normal enough.
Its the back of the jersey that gets interesting. It features a mesh weave not found in any other jersey on the planet. It's part of a two-garment system, meant to be worn with a base layer.
What makes this jersey interesting and not a complete oddity is the fact that this mesh has some loft to it. The upshot is that air can circulate through the mesh and the mesh helps keep a hydration pack from sitting flat against your back, hopefully keeping you cooler on hot days. The look is really unusual, but I can't wait to try this.
Assos also introduced a new road jersey that is meant to bring their apparel into a more affordable price range without sacrificing materials or fit.
The Canadian company Race Face bought Easton Cycling earlier this year. That's not particularly big news, but this is: The long awaited replacement for the EC90 has finally hit the market. The new EC90 features Easton's new (more durable) hubs as well as the new Fantom rim. I've been waiting for this wheel for a good 18 months; it, like the Syzr pedals, was threatening to become vapor ware. The Fantom rim features a rounded spoke bed for a double leading edge approach to aerodynamics; it's got a 38mm depth and a 19mm internal width, making it one of the widest rims for road tires on the market. Another unusual feature of this wheel is that its tubeless-ready design uses a hookless bead. The EC90 is available into two carbon clincher versions (spoke counts of 16/20 and 20/24), a tubular version as well as a carbon clincher disc version.
Also new is the E100 carbon tubular. It features a 45mm depth and is 24mm wide at the brake track, so it's perfect for anyone wanting to run a 25mm tubular tire. Its most compelling feature is its weight. That number on the scale—1.03—is the weight in kilograms.
But light can be frustrating if the wheels aren't serviceable. These wheels may feature carbon fiber spokes, but they can be trued and in the event of a broken spoke from a crash, a set of spokes (drive side or non-drive side) can be replaced, unlike some other high-zoot wheels.
Lezyne has revamped some of its floor pumps. The CNC Floor Drive, the Alloy Floor Drive and the Steel Floor Drive all have a new 3.5-inch wide gauge, perfect for aging eyes.
For everyone who thinks the new Silca is just too expensive, the CNC Floor Drive delivers great quality for only $100.
Lezyne also added a gauge to its popular hand pump. The Gauge Drive goes for $49.99 and works with both presta and Schrader valves. It can take a tire up to 120 psi, though only track riders take tires that high anymore.
Lezyne added a new organizer to its offerings with the Flow Caddy. It takes the mini-bottle and includes a tool roll to make it easier to get everything in—and out. Just add tools; $15.99.
A number of bike companies are beginning to offer dedicated gravel bikes. Arguably no one has as much experience in off-the-beaten-track road bike design as Co-Motion. They work in steel and aluminum and aren't afraid of disc brakes—mechanical or hydraulic. At one end you've got the Klatch, a racey bike capable of tearing up all unpaved surfaces. On the other you've got the Pangea which is essentially a drop-bar, loaded tour mountain bike. In between those are another eight or so bikes, most with an S&S Coupler variant.
Not only does Co-Motion machine all their own frame fittings, they offer some interesting adaptations, such as these dropouts that will allow someone to convert their bike from the geared, derailleured version shown here to a single-speed version.
Bell has entered the aero helmet arena with the $280 Star Pro. The eye shield (their term) is much better than those included on most competing helmets, probably because they went with Zeiss optics so that you can actually see what's approaching. If this looks like some of the other aero designs, that's because that vent-free frontal area is a shape that wind tunnels have shown is faster.
The helmet's real innovation is a slider that closes the helmets vents, making a fast helmet even faster. And because this can be done on the fly, unlike the helmet covers that Team Sky's Kask requires, it's easier to use and therefore likely to be used more.
Bell had a clear plastic version made to demonstrate how the slider would close all the vents. Not exactly obvious, but definitely cool.
Enduro isn't really our scene, but I dig anything that allows you to stretch your limits. Bell just introduced a revision of their Super 2 helmet, the $200 Super 2R. Where it differs is the full-face protection. But this ain't the rad kid's full-face helmet. It's convertible.
Yep, it snaps off. And while I wouldn't have tried this without a three-way mirror, the face protector is nearly as easy to install as it is to remove. As a matter of fact, I'm told it's easier to both remove and install the face protector when you're wearing the helmet.
Not everyone replaces their helmet after it takes a good hit, and no amount of education will fix that for everyone. The answer is a helmet that can take multiple hits. The Reflex uses EPP foam instead of EPS so that it can take multiple impacts without crumbling. It also has a hard polycarbonate shell to insulate the EPP from light impacts, like a distracted kid dropping the helmet on the ground. At $65, it may be one of the better values in helmets.
Panache showed a new kit called V-Lab. Making bib shorts aero is no big thing as they already follow the skin, but the jersey has been the issue. To make a jersey more aero, more form-following, it has to do more than just fit better, it also needs stretch. Most jerseys accomplish this by increasing the amount of Lycra in the jersey, but that compromises breathability.
The V-Lab jersey uses an unusual knit in order to increase stretch while keeping the Lycra content to only three percent. This is a lightweight fabric meant for those special days, if not race day. V-Lab is available in both their existing collection and in custom.
When Italian bike makers began producing bikes overseas, Italian geometry did a magnificent Dodo act, virtually disappearing from the Earth. Scapin has introduced a custom carbon fiber bike that restores that classic geometry of a long wheelbase and lower bottom bracket. Those bikes were beloved for a reason and that geometry was the big reason why.
2 comments
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That Co-Motion Klatsch is classy. My next bike will be something like that, or the Gunnar Fastlane… or the Moots V DR or the Felt F1 PR or hmm, ooh, shiny…


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Kelsey Lu: "I was very particular about what kind of dresses I would wear and want. They had to be what I call 'spin around' dresses, and if I spun around and they made that wave, then it was a go. It was definitely a go."
Memories of family thrifting excursions — trips that helped solidify her personal style — are wistful accounts of unearthing overlooked treasures.
See also: https://www.jehovahs-witness.com/topic/282165/wonder-how-many-feel-like-this


text: MAC and Puma Are Collaborating 7:19 AM PST 11/6/2017 by Sam Reed FACEBOOK TWITTER EMAIL ME Matthias Nareyek/Getty Images This should be interesting. MAC Cosmetics and Puma are getting together for an unlikely collaboration of...well, we're not entirely sure. MAC posted a teaser on social media that does little to explain exactly what the two brands have got cooking. What we do know, however, is that their joint project is coming in 2018. If we were to take a wild guess, we would lean toward some kind of shoe collaboration, given the language used in MAC's Instagram caption, which reads: "Your favourite hues take a big step in a whole new direction! Stay tuned for a kickin' collaboration, coming soon." The video also features a silhouette of a sneaker, so perhaps the collab could be something as simple as a shoe available in one of the makeup brand's most popular hues. Fans have also speculated about the possibility of a perfectly color-coordinated streetwear collection and cosmetics range that would make it easy for customers to easily match their lipstick to their ensemble. Puma women's creative director, Rihanna, has stayed mum on social media regarding the collab, but if there's one thing she's proved, it's that her fans love her footwear as much as her makeup. Her Fenty x Puma collection has made the German retailer competitive in the crowded sportswear market, and boosted parent company Kering's profits thanks to sales of creepers and faux-fur slides. Meanwhile, her Fenty Beauty line, produced by Kendo, which is owned by LVMH, has already become a cult favorite. Your favourite hues take a big step in a whole new direction! Stay tuned for a kickin' collaboration, coming soon. #PUMAxMAC #ForAllTime @Puma @PumaSportStyle A post shared by M·A·C Cosmetics (@maccosmetics) on Nov 4, 2017 at 5:08pm PDT FACEBOOK TWITTER EMAIL ME Sam Reed email@example.com @thr


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Cane Corso is an ancient Italian Molossian.
Prior to 1988, this breed was known only in southern Italy and was considered very rare.
They will not like to cuddle, and at times might acknowledge your presence but you can't expect this breed to come to you just for petting or affection.
This breed is a muscular and smart-looking dog but just a word of caution that they will not be for everyone.
They might come as aloof at times and will never respond well to strangers or people other than their immediate family members so you will have to introduce him or her to strangers well.
Quick Facts
Avg. Height: 25-27.5 inches (male), 23.5-26 inches (female)
Avg. Weight: Proportionate to height
Life Expectancy: 9-12 years
Dog Group: Working Group
Colors: Brindle, black, gray, red, and fawn.
At A Glance
- Size (4/5)
Ancient Italian breed medium-large size Molossus Dog.
Sturdy, with a strong skeleton.
Weight is proportionate to height and typically ranges from 90 to 120 pounds.
The average Cane Corso is quite large, measuring between 64 to 68cm and weighing in at between 45 to 50 kgs.
- Affection Level (4/5)
The Cane Corso is known to be reliable, trustworthy, and loyal, and they form strong bonds with their families becoming devoted to them.
They boast having a strong protective instinct, although they are gentle and affectionate by nature too.
- Apartment Friendly (2/5)
It is flexible because Cane Corso can settle just as happily into apartment dwelling as outdoor living.
In case left outdoors, you need to provide adequate shelter to them.
- Cold Weather Tolerability (3/5)
They can adapt to cold weather since its coat will get thicker in the Winter.
However, they are not geared for extreme cold weather.
The breed standard does specify the coat not be 'Too thick.'
- Hot Weather Tolerability (4/5)
The Corso can indeed be kept in cold weather; however, its thin coat is geared more towards warmer weather which increases their sultry weather tolerability.
- Barking Tendencies (3/5)
The Cane Corso is not known to be a "barker" although any dog might start barking incessantly as a way of getting attention.
With this said, a dog would quickly let an owner know when something they don't like is going on in their environment, but would not generally bark for no reason.
- Cat-Friendly (1/5)
Possess strong instincts to chase and seize cats and other fleeing creatures.
- Dog-Friendly (3/5)
Many will not tolerate another dog of the same sex, and some won't tolerate the opposite sex either.
- Exercise Needs (5/5)
A good 60 to 80 minutes a day would be enough to keep a Cane Corso happy, fit, and healthy.
He requires mental as well as physical stimulation, or undesirable behavior might result.
- Grooming Needs (5/5)
This dog boasts having a short, dense and glossy coat which makes them low maintenance on the grooming front.
Like other breeds, they tend to shed the most hair during the Spring and then again in autumn when more frequent brushing is usually necessary.
- Playfulness (3/5)
The Cane Corso is a serious dog although when they are puppies, like all puppies, they are boisterous and playful.
Like any other dog breed, Cane Corsos, like playing.
Sometimes they bark as excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
- Trainability (4/5)
Early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended for a breed as big and strong as a Cane Corso.
They are also intelligent, quick-witted, and strong, and they could quickly become unruly and wilful.
- Intelligence Mouthiness (2/5)
Cane Corsos have lower than average tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior.
This is a working breed and loves to have a job or be involved in something.
If left to his own devices, he may chew your furniture, your shoes, and dig holes.
- Price Group (3/5)
Cost to keep them is expensive.
On average, around $1500 per year is the cost of owning a middle-aged Cane Corso.
About Cane Corso?
It is now one of two Italian "Mastiff" type breeds, along with the Neapolitan Mastiff, that descended from this war dog.
It has a broad head with a square muzzle that is as wide as it is long, giving the dog superior bite strength.
The ears are naturally dropped forward, though it is the preference of breeders to crop the ears into small, equilateral triangles that stand upright.
They drool occasionally, but when they make some potential snack is involved.
Breeders also typically dock the tails of this dog.
Where Cane Corso Came From?
The Cane Corso belongs to a subcategory of working breeds called molossus dogs, or molasses, named for the Molossi.
An ancient Greek tribe thought to have bred giant, big-boned guardian dogs of Mastiff type.
With the dissolution of the Western Empire in the fifth century, Italy's legions and their dogs were out of work.
Corsi adapted to such civilian jobs as wild boar hunting, farming, livestock driving, and most famously, guarding farmsteads and hen houses.
Michael Sottile imported the first litter of Corsos to the United States in 1988, followed by a second litter in 1989.
The Corso is a large, muscular dog.
Males stand 25 to 27.5 inches at the withers; females 23.5 to 26 inches.
At nearly 28 inches at the shoulder with a large head, and often weighing more than 100 pounds, alert expression, and muscles rippling beneath their short, and stiff coat.
Cane Corso is eager to please and fairly easy to train, but because some can be domineering, they are not a breed for a novice owner.
They are intelligent and eager to please, so they are generally easy to train.
The Cane Corso's coat is short but double-layered.
The undercoat varies in length depending on the climate the dog lives.
This is a breed that sheds a little all the time, despite having a short coat.
You can expect a dog to have a big shed or to "blow coat" in a big way in the spring and sometimes in the fall before the winter coat comes in.
A rubber grooming mitt or a hound glove will remove the dead hair, and it helps remove dirt and promotes new hair growth as well.
Common Diseases
- Major concerns: CHD
- Minor concerns: elbow dysplasia, cardiac problems
- Occasionally seen: entropion, ectropion, gastric torsion
- Suggested tests: hip, elbow, eye, heart
An abnormal formation of the hip socket is Hip Dysplasia, in its more severe form, can eventually cause crippling lameness and painful arthritis of the joints.
Providing proper nutrition and preventing obesity from occurring can help reduce the risk of Degenerative Joint Disease.
As a large, deep-chested dog, Cane Corsos are prone to developing Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV; more commonly known as bloat).
GDV is also known as bloat or torsion is a gastric problem in dogs.
Multifocal Retinopathy affected dogs typically present between 11 and 16 weeks of age.
The mutation causes to form raised lesions on the retina.
The lesions alter the appearance of the eye but usually do not affect the eyesight.
Cherry Eye is a condition where a cherry-like mole is formed in the corner of the eye.
Ectropion in dogs is a condition where the lower eyelid rolls out of the eyes of dogs that have loose, wrinkled skin around the face.
Entropion is a genetic disease.
It leads to the folding of the eyelid internally, which gives a lot of uncomforting irritation to the dog.
Distichiasis is a condition of the eye in which extra hair grow out of the eyelash area.
It happens when there are two or more hair growing out of a Meibomian gland opening of the eye.
Canine Distemper, often referred to as 'distemper,' is among the most easily contacted common and deadly virus infections for dogs.
This disease is particularly fatal for young puppies and non-immunized senior dogs.
Canine Epilepsy is one of the most common neurologic diseases of dogs and a top concern of dog breeders.
Seizures occur among dogs when excessive activity goes beyond the normal threshold for brain function.
Some Cane Corsos after they have been neutered gain weight, so it's important to adjust their daily calorie intake.
This breed is prone to suffering from allergies, and it's important to see a vet sooner, bearing in mind the breed is known to suffer from Demodectic Mange Allergies.
If you are feeding a high-quality dry food, your dog will probably eat 4 to 5 cups a day.
It's best to feed a mature dog twice a day, once in the morning and then again in the evening, making sure it meets all their nutritional requirements.
Since Cane Corsos are prone to suffer from bloat, it is important to feed them twice a day instead of giving them just one large meal a day.
Vaccination And Care
Cane Corso puppies would have been given their initial vaccinations before being sold, but it is up to their new owners to make sure they have their follow-up shots promptly with the vaccination schedule for puppies.
As with any other breed, this breed needs to be groomed on a regular basis to make sure they don't suffer from certain skin issues.
Monthly Expense Estimation
The average cost to keep and care for this dog would be between £90 to £150 a month.
When it comes to food costs, you need to buy the best quality food, whether wet or dry, which would set you back between £40 – £50 a month.
On top of this, you would need to factor in veterinary costs which include their initial vaccinations and their annual boosters.
Behavior With
The ideal Corso is docile and affectionate toward his family, including children
When Corsos are well socialized from a young age and puppies grow up with children in a household, they are known to get on well together, and this includes where there are other animals in the home too.
However, because of their sheer size, any interaction between very young children and dogs is best supervised.
When it comes to other dogs, well socialized Corsos are generally good around them, but precaution must be taken when they meet any new dogs.
They are known to be confrontational and will not back down if they feel threatened by another dog in any way.
They are not high prey drive dogs, and as such, they generally tolerate other animals.
However, if a cat or other animal decides to run away from them, they would think nothing of chasing them, and if they do catch them, the results could be disastrous for the fleeing animal.
By 1996, the Cane Corso was recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale.
By the 1970s, only a few Corsos remained with peasants spread throughout the countryside.
In 1973, two individuals located, collected, and bred the remaining Corsos, and a decade later a breed club was formed.
This breed is not a good choice for first-time dog owners because they need to be handled and trained by people familiar with the specific needs of such a large and intelligent dog.
Something Fun About Cane Corso!
Let me tell you a fun fact about
The Cane Corso is known to be descended from the war dogs, known as Canis Pugnax, used by the ancient Romans.
Spill your thoughts on what you think about the breed in the comment section below.
Do share it with people who have this dog or who are looking forward to getting this breed!
Happy Petting To You Guys!


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posted on by Lynzee Loveridge
A structure with a dark past was re-purposed into a symbol of fortune on the beaches of Normandy. Two French graffiti artists transformed a Nazi blockhaus into the dragon Shenron from Dragonball Z. The artists Blesea and Baby.K previously painted one of fortifications into a Star Wars ship and Darth Vadar before taking on this challenge.
The Shenron art is located near The Goeland 1951 bar on Jonville beach. In its former life, the blockhaus (also known as a casemate) served as fortified gun housing used by German troops to fire upon the Allied forces as they stormed the beach on June 6,1944. While some are used as important monuments, like on Utah Beach or Arromanches-les-Bains, both of which are homes to museums, the Shenron blockhaus is completely abandoned.
Since its transformation, Shenron has appeared in le Parisien newspaper and gaining further recognition. Blesea and Baby.K stated that they hope the art will give parents an opportunity to discuss the war with their children.
[Via Fanactu (Cobain)]


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Three years ago, Ann Marie Sabath was teaching a training program for young professionals who had been in their careers for one year. As an international consultant in her business, "At Ease Inc.," she helps business people climb what she calls "the slippery ladder of success." On this day, her workshop participants were singled out by their managers as leaders-in-the-making.
Sabath asked the group what personal goals they had accomplished since starting work full-time. One said he bought a new car. Another said she was living in a part of the city where she had always wanted to live. A third said he was saving $1,000 a month.
That quiet, young man got her attention. He said he wanted to be a millionaire and had read that in order to do that he needed to delay his immediate wants for future ones. He also told her he packs his lunch rather than going out to eat, he makes his coffee at home rather than buying it elsewhere and maintains a basic work wardrobe. In addition, he volunteers at a dog shelter in his free time.
Sabath believed this young man was well on his way to becoming a millionaire. This encounter also sent her on her way to researching millionaires and writing, "What Self-Made Millionaires Do That Most People Don't."
In the book, she offers 25 habits and 52 secrets for "creating your own success" while featuring self-made millionaires of all ages and backgrounds in short, engaging stories.
For example, Secret No. 7 is, "Take Control of Your Life." She introduces readers to Sarian Bouma. As a young woman, Bouma came to the United States to continue her education in communications after gaining experience in radio and television as a teenager in her home country of Sierra Leone on the southwest coast of Africa.
On her journey, she married, had a child, got a divorce and found herself on welfare. Sabath says Sarian made the decision to take control of her life the day she had to feed her baby water because she didn't have enough food stamps to buy milk.
"She wondered, 'How did I get to this point?'" says Sabath. "Sarian took advice from a welfare counselor and learned to become a bank teller, then a credit manager and then married again. Her new husband saw how people loved her and said, 'You need to start a business. Do what you're good at.'"
As Sabath explains, Sarian remembered how people had complimented her on cleaning their houses when she first arrived in the U.S. "She started a commercial cleaning business and landed the contract to clean the building where the White House staff worked. She became a millionaire in her mid-30s with her company, Capitol Hill Building Maintenance."
Sabath tells the stories of 29 other self-made millionaires. She also notes that fewer than 15 percent of women are self-made millionaires. Here's why, she says:
They do not have this seven-figure status as a goal for themselves.
They are less likely to preplan their purchases.
They are more risk averse when it comes to beginning their own business.
They have few, if any, female role models who have achieved self-made millionaire status.
They are more focused on taking care of others rather than themselves.
"You have to believe in yourself, put yourself first," says Sabath. "Of course, take care of your family, your partner, but you take care of yourself first."
Sabath also points out that becoming a millionaire is only important if that is what somebody wants. "You have to begin with the end in mind. The goal is to work toward it every single day."
Secrets Sabath offers include: "Be a person of integrity. Stay focused. Be grateful. Pay it forward. Be a minimalist." She suggests readers identify the secrets they aren't currently applying and put them into action.
"As I was writing the book I realized I only had four secrets left. One was, 'Exercise for the Health of It.' That's a big deal. I decided I could swim. I don't want to tell you I use a noodle, but now I swim."
She also practiced learning how to be a minimalist. "Look at the things we don't use anymore. If you haven't used something for two years, give it away, throw it away or sell it. I allowed myself to use 100 things for a month – that included 20 items of jewelry, four pairs of shoes – flats, two heels and boots – I live in New York, I dress like Johnny Cash. But I got to the point that I could be a minimalist."
She explains minimalists don't make impulse purchases and they don't clutter their minds deciding what to wear. "I preplan my purchases now."
With Sabath's own millionaire status, she continues to do what brings her joy, which is helping other people create their own success, one person at a time. Her new book, "Everybodya Has a Book Inside of Them," comes with a 30-minute consultation.
Ironically, Sabath tells readers in her book about millionaires that success and happiness "is not about the money." Even so, her book offers a wealth of tips and action items to nudge readers toward their seven-figure goal. QCBN
By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN
To hear more, tune into her podcast, AnnMarieSabath.com or visit annmariesabath.com.


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Big Name Acts Cancel SeaWold Shows After 'Blackfish' But Do They Really Care About the Cause?
Busch Gardens is scrounging to save their "Bands, Brew & BBQ" concert scheduled for this weekend after its sister park, SeaWorld, got caught with fishy laundry in the new documentary Blackfish , released in October.
The documentary, which explores the possible animal cruelty caused by SeaWorld by keeping killer whales in captivity for the park's entertainment purposes, has attracted some serious attention to the park's questionable activity. It has caused so much controversy that social media users have launched campaigns urging the concert's scheduled performers to back out of this weekend's concert in protest. So far, it's been working.
Ten of the 14 music artists scheduled to appear throughout the concert have called it quits, including the Beach Boys, Willie Nelson, and Pat Benatar. SeaWorld is left with Alan Jackson, Justin Moore, Scotty McCreery, and Kid Rock, all of which have yet to bail on this sad, sad, scene. Are you thinking what we're thinking? Because we barely recognize any of those names now, anyway.
While we'll leave Busch Gardens with it's less-than-thrilling lineup, we also must question the excuses of the performers that have already cancelled. While they all cite the inappropriateness of performing following the Blackfish controversy as their reason for calling it quits, we wonder whether their efforts are sincere or if they are just following the trendy wave. Let's take a look.


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What has happened to Groupon
Groupon, Facebook, LinkedIn. They all have one thing in common. Their
stock market issue was one of the most expected events in company history.
And they all suffer from the same disease. The loss of stock value. While FB
has lost 10 USD (25%) of their stock value, LinkedIn has also dipped 20%.
Groupon however has lost 50% of their value since Feb 1st this year. Imagine this. You've invested, say 5 million dollars in Groupon 3 months ago and now you ahve only 2.5 million dollars left.
Is this only one of the many bubbles to burst this year? Nobody knows for sure but as the stock quotes show, the way is only showing into one direction: DOWNWARDS!
As many economists have expected, especially IT-related businesses such as Facebook & Co. are most likely to loose value in the upcoming months. And they stood right. So it's luck for all those not having invested in these titles so far. No one knows for sure how these titles will develop in the next three monts but the future looks dim.
Always mind the markets ad listen to star economists as they're mostly right when it comes to market development for certain sensitive markets. And who knows… the next Web-bubble will come to burst.
Sometinmes it's still good to invest in material goods even if they're not offering such good quotes as virtual goods companies, like facebook, LinkedIn and Groupon do.
Best example: The apple stock has increased value by 100% within 2 years… and with their maerial goods it's most likely that the stock will keep it's value if not constantly increasing it further at best!
RATING : FILED UNDER :Curiosities , Economy&Finance , News
TAGGED WITH :facebook , Groupon , linkedin , market , stock


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The wealth industry has never found it easy to implement systems and adapt to new technologies. One reason for this is that there is a cultural divide between people who work in IT and people who manage money. That gap is reducing but nevertheless it remains. Compounding the issue, the technology landscape is now changing faster than ever and wealth firms have more and more options.
In the past wealth managers had numerous systems that operated from point-to-point; then we entered the time of STP and workflow; and we are now in the era of APIs and plug-ins. There are a plethora of API providers and it is becoming increasingly difficult for a wealth manager to know which ones to choose.
Additionally, for most wealth managers, the lion's share of their available IT investment is taken up by compliance and risk. One regulation follows another in a seemingly endless cycle, and all will have an impact on systems and people costs. In terms of risk, wealth managers need to consider portfolio risk, client risk and the growing risk of fraud and cybersecurity. These two elements severely limit the budget remaining for expansion or improvements to the business.
Within the IT systems themselves, there is also an inherent risk. There have been some major IT failures of late and the cost of those to the wealth management industry (in terms of write-downs) will have run into the hundreds of millions. One reason for this is that traditionally, the aim of most software firms was to go into a wealth manager independently and sell their own software, not concerning themselves with how it integrated with that wealth manager's other applications.
Furthermore, the industry is moving away from waterfall to agile development; it's moving from installations to cloud deployment; and data is now acknowledged as the key commodity.
Building ecosystems
As a consequence of these factors, I believe that wealth managers now need a radical new approach to technology to help them make the right choices. An increasingly important option will be a shift towards building ecosystems and partnerships within wealthtech.
One might argue that partnerships are not new: APIs and integration have been around in the wealth industry for some time. The landscape, however, has altered radically in recent years as the pace of business, regulatory and technology change has intensified. And let me be clear: simply integrating technologies through APIs is not an association; that is just creating a technical interface - a requirement without which no wealth manager in its right mind would buy any solution.
Real partnerships operate at a business level between two or several firms, where the vendors work together to collectively understand the particular client that they are approaching, identify the business problems that their respective solutions are solving (pinpointing any 'gaps') and architect a combined solution to the client's dilemma.
This kind of on-the-fly partnership requires a good cultural fit, transparency and excellent communication between the vendors, but also a similar approach to processes and project management. Crucially, it necessitates an effective data governance structure that all parties sign up to.
Of course, the best integrations are served through long-term partnerships, where Service Level Agreements dictate that the various providers involved must provide compatibility out-of-the-box.
Practical steps
At the pre-sale stage there is certainly much co-operation that could be achieved, but it appears that very few vendors are actually attempting this. A collaborative proof of concept between several vendors, for example, could be a useful approach that would benefit the wealth manager and vendors alike.
One step towards this nirvana would be for vendors to begin to admit that their software is not always the panacea for all problems and recognise that other vendors may have functionality that they do not have. Honesty is the key here: the distrust that many wealth managers have of the software industry is the preponderance of vendors that make unsubstantiated claims about what their kit can and can't do. Additionally, rapidly creating bespoke functionality in areas which are not in the vendor's 'sweet spot' as a means of seeing off the competition is rarely in the client's best interests.
Indeed, most wealth managers would agree that no single provider can do everything well, so the ability to choose from a range of best-of-breed technology vendors enables firms to meet their specific business requirements and build their own, unique technology environment that brings value to their business.
Of course, many wealth firms are growing by acquisition at present and firms need to deliver a consistent client experience, irrespective of the back-office systems the acquired firm is operating. During such corporate transactions there can be a big opportunity for more cooperation between vendors, utilising APIs to plug in multiple technologies. There is no need for the headache and risk of a massive data merge project to bring everything into a single system.
It's important to note that integration doesn't end when the systems go live. The ongoing management of that integration is critical and one of the key challenges of using multiple vendors is that the client's data is passing from system to system. There needs to be a support process for the integration itself, not just each individual system - highlighting any errors or warnings.
The data headache
When a wealth manager is integrating a front office with a back office, there could be literally hundreds of data interfaces. Data management is one of the biggest sources of risk, so the data integration process must be well managed and monitored.
On this theme, one of the biggest challenges faced is the regulatory view on outsourcing. Data governance and data lineage are key here, as the regulator can request reams of documentation from a wealth manager to prove that it is in control. A team of vendors that is able to demonstrate this data governance as a collective partnership would certainly help win hearts and minds among potential clients.
Many wealth managers are struggling to keep up with the pace of change. That pace is being driven by not just technological advances but also evolving regulatory and client needs. We are living in an era where wealth managers may be serving five generations, which is completely unprecedented.
There is now a multitude of specialist and enterprise applications covering the front, middle and back offices. With data analytics rapidly becoming the 'new oil' and emerging technologies such as AI, it is becoming increasingly difficult for wealth managers to make the right choices for investing in their technology.
As a consequence, we are now witnessing the emergence of vendor partnerships. While still in its infancy, this new era does provide an opportunity to overcome some of the challenges that wealth managers face and to optimise some of the strengths of best-of-breed providers.


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If we told you that we recently had a chance to play an open-world post-apocalyptic first-person shooter with an emphasis on RPG elements and bloody combat, you'd likely ask "Which one?" In this case it would be id Software's very own Rage, available to play at QuakeCon 2011 and a title that has every chance to shoot itself in the foot. We had about an hour and a half to get acquainted with Rage, and despite the initial sense of unpleasant regurgitation, we had a good deal of fun.
The opening kicked off with a large meteor crashing into the earth (a flash of pre-apocalyptic action, we suppose), followed by chaos. Hiding in some sort of stasis pod seemed to be a logical move in this situation, and the protagonist did so. Upon emerging from the chamber, however, it was discovered that this was no silly episode of Futurama: the world was smashed up, blew up, and beat up with reckless abandon. We took control at this point but stood no chance against the mutant forces of awfulness, so it was a lucky break when a survivor took pity and helped us out.
He and a small band of resistors lived out their days in a junky yet welcoming gas station (also smashed up, blew up, and beat up) and invited us to stay. The offer of companionship and a chance to go kill lots of bad guys suited us just fine, so we wasted no time in loading our pistol and driving a four-wheeler into the unknown.
Our buggy was faster than a man with a mutant on his tail (we would know), especially when the boost was activated. Flying up ramps and launching the poor driver into walls was exhilarating, but the controls felt a little squirrelly, especially when using the all-too-sensitive brakes. Still, it got the job done, and we roared our way through the semi-open world with eager anticipation.
The mini-map pointed the way via a handy dotted line, and we were soon in enemy territory; only a pistol stood between us and a horrible death as angry survivors attempted to murder us. The shooting felt both responsive and fluid, rewarding us for paying close attention to our foes. They hid behind cover of all sorts, sometimes taking us on with blindfire, to make good use of the grimy environment. The bolder ones (including those with flaming bats) charged us with all their might, but a sound smack to the head sent them spiralling away. However, they used melee attacks of their own, so spamming the punch button did us no favours.
The animation was a highlight of our experience. Enemies limped away when injured or even fell to the ground and tried to shoot at us from their prone position. Of course, gore flew every which way, specifically when grenades were in use. We also found ourselves a shotgun and some sharp blades that could be thrown through the air, upping the count of beheadings substantially.
Rage wasn't very tough on Normal difficulty, but when we did finally go down, a mini-game was there to pull us from death's icy grip. By dexterously aligning the thumb sticks and nailing the timing on some button presses, our health was refilled relative to our (sloppy) performance. Whether or not this skill can be abused as an easy way out remains to be seen, but it's a neat addition on its own.
While Rage's combat certainly hit the spot in terms of solid, tried-and-true shooting, there wasn't anything especially original about it. There are, however, some light RPG additions to spice things up: for example, junk can be salvaged and combined to make brand new items. We made ourselves a device to break locks and a nifty scope for our pistol, both of which came in handy right away.
We sold the extra contents of our inventory back at the base, purchasing some healing kits in exchange. The locals were also willing to teach us how to use certain weapons and hand out missions to complete, the latter of which move the story forward. Tips during lengthy loading screens told us to head off the beaten path and explore, but most of these excursion ended with dead ends or invisible walls; often both. These early parts of Rage might be more confined than later portions, but we didn't see a whole lot of open-ended opportunities.
For such a thoroughly apocalypsed world, Rage managed to look spiffy. Character models were detailed to an impressive degree, set in a dusty land under a glorious sky. It's often ugly, sure — but that's the point. Our main concern was the texture pop-in that plagued even the nearest of surfaces. We only had access to the PS3 version, but it could use some polishing up before hitting store shelves.
We weren't blown away during our time with Rage, yet the intense fights kept us pushing forward and yearning for more. Ninety minutes was hardly enough time to dig into this promising game's many layers — we didn't even touch the racing or multiplayer — but it'll have to work hard to dig itself out of the potentially stale genre pit. Keep your eyes open and your Acme Mutant Repellent at hand as we rapidly approach its October release date.


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Poster of Skagen Plantation on an autumn day with drizzle and rain in the air. The weather dramatically showcases the dune plantation and focus on the harsh and rough landscape, while the special light amplifies the details in the nature.
The poster is included in the Denmark series, where Foto Factory publish posters from the Danish countryside.
Photographer: Martin Bay


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Garcinia Cambogia Reviews – Are you looking for a dietary supplement that is safe, can burn extra fat from your body or at the same time gives your body the energy you need for daily routine? If your answer is yes, then you will love these capsules. These capsules are made from Pure Garcinia Cambogia that is a rare fruit, get found in the tropical forests of the Southeast Asia, Indonesia, West and Central Africa.
Garcinia Cambogia Reviews –
- 1 Garcinia Cambogia Reviews –
- 2 Why Choose Garcinia Cambogia?
- 3 Garcinia Cambogia Does it Work?
- 4 Natural Ingredients –
- 5 Additional Garcinia At a Glance –
- 6 Benefits of Garcinia Combogia –
- 7 Garcinia Cambogia Side Effects:
- 8 Where To Buy Garcinia Cambogia Extra
It is a famous supplement which is used for weight loss. It is also known as Garcinia Cambogia Malabar tamarind. Well, it is used to say that it helps in blocking the ability to produce fat in the body & put on the brakes on your desire for food. This is one of the main garcinia cambogia benefits. Well, you can expect a lot from this product. Every person dream of fit & slim body, that is hard to get, once you gain weight. But with this product, you can gain results in some few weeks. It helps in fat production in the body, make you feel, less hungry, so that you don't eat fat junk or fat producing food items and enhance serotonin level of those who are called emotional eaters.
Garcinia cambogia weight loss has an energetic ingredient which is its fruit's peel, called hydroxycitric acid or HCA has enhanced fat-burning & cut back craving. It also emerges to obstruct an enzyme called citrate lyase, which is a reason behind producing fat in human body. Garcinia is also lifts up intensities of the brain compound serotonin that may make you feel less starving.
Why Choose Garcinia Cambogia?
Scientifically Proven To Inhibit Fat Formation
Sugar And The Best Carbohydrate Metabolism That Help Weight Loss
Improves Mood, Stress Prevention-Triggered Binging
Appetite Control
Combine Garcinia Cambogia And Raspberry Ketone In A Single Supplement
Garcinia Cambogia Does it Work?
Garcinia cambogia is a unique product contains all natural ingredients which help in reducing fat now easily. There are no preservatives, no chemical additives, and no GMOS. It only has extracts of Garcinia Cambogia, hydroxycitric acid or pure natural ingredients, which is safe for every human body. Also, it contains an advanced formula, which helps to suppress appetite for emotional eaters which has been used to aid weight loss. It also helps in reducing cravings for unhealthy foods. These capsules are known as miraculous fat destroyer because it has a new groundbreaking invention in natural weight loss. (HCA) hydroxycitric Acid or Pure Garcinia Cambogia is an effective fat burning essence that has the miraculous capability to slow down an enzyme that human body requires crafting fat from carbohydrates. For example, it turns sugar into energy in place of building fat into the body.
Natural Ingredients –
Additional Garcinia At a Glance –
As pointed out, many Garcinia cambogia supplements on the market lack of ingredient purity and efficiency of weight loss. This is not the case with Garcinia extra, however. The latter is a pure and powerful formula unlike any other on the market.
Aside from it contains a substantial amount of Garcinia Extract (1000mg has 60% HCA) that also contains raspberry ketone (200mg, the recommended dose), making it the first and only dietary supplement to combine the loss properties of the weight of these two agents. (Garcinia cambogia Reviews)
Garcinia Cambogia functions as an appetite suppressant and effective fatty tissue suppressant, while Raspberry Ketone boosts the activity of burning Garcinia cambogia fat. Once you can easily detect why Garcinia cambogia stands out from all the other dietary supplements Garcinia Cambogia.
The certainly innovative combination of the two powerful ingredients is what makes Garcinia Cambogia one of its kind of weight loss supplement. Garcinia cambogia additional raises the bar by providing a high standard weight loss supplement that can contribute to:
Prevention Of Fat Formation
The Suppression Of Appetite
Improves Mood
Let'S Each Take One Of Their Function To See How Garcinia Cambogia Extra Is A Decidedly Efficient Weight Loss Supplement.
Benefits of Garcinia Combogia –
Buy Now From Official Link
Garcinia Cambogia Side Effects:
No, natural ingredients can harm the human body. So these, pills also will not going to harm you in any way. By taking a fat loose pill, make it easier for a human body to make use of glucose, the sugar human body cells require for power. In just 4 weeks, you will get a body of your dreams. Common Side effects of Garcinia include:
- Nausea
- Upset stomach
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
Garcinia cambogia side effects liver : Some peoples complain about the serious liver problems after taken products containing garcinia or garcinia cambogia tablets ; however, it is unclear and not sure that if garcinia is the actual cause of liver problems in these reports or if it is due to other factors. Common, but mild side effects also include nausea, digestive tract discomfort, and headache. It is easily taken in the pill form, either in a tablet or capsule. If you buy the supplement as a pill, take the recommended dosage of garcinia as a tablet or capsule with water. Take the pill about 30-60 minutes before each meal. As recommended. Most of the people found Garcinia Cambogia is effective and safe when taken for 12 weeks or less.
Have a Look at Garcinia Cambogia Customer Reviews:
Due to the nature of garcinia cambogia, you should temper your expectations a bit. While there are some clinical studies that can attest to the weight loss properties of a garcinia cambogia extract herbal supplement. No herbal supplement works like miracle. Any positive garcinia cambogia results in a week are not possible. Customers have mixed reviews on that. Keep this thing in mind, garcinia cambogia alone will likely not allow you to reach your desired weight loss goal.. If you are to lose weight with a garcinia cambogia extract herbal supplements as part of your weight loss regimen, it needs to include plenty of exercise, an appropriate amount of restful sleep, a nutritious diet, and other healthy lifestyle choices.
Well, a customer loves this product. It is safe, fast effective, that usually demand. Everyone wants to lose weight naturally. So, this product gives people the chance to lose weight naturally. This product has a number of customers all around the world. It is users, who made this product famous in such a short period of time. It is a powerful weight loose supplement. People have craving food according to their mood swings. So, now they have one option that is reliable, trustworthy and people's favorite. This product is available online by verified payment option. People can but this product online & can try a product.
Where To Buy Garcinia Cambogia Extra
While there are several online and face-to-face sellers of Garcinia Cambogia supplements, unfortunately, only a handful are the real thing. By purchasing your own bottle of Garcinia from its official website, you ensure that you are buying a powerful, pure dietary supplement, which comes with the risk-free 60-day money back guarantee, except for one-time billing (without remarks) and the same day of dispatch.
The price may seem comparatively high as 1 month supply costs $ 49.95, but considering the high quality of the ingredients included, the price-quality ratio is much higher than with other Garcinia supplements.
3 months and 6 months of supplies come with massive discounts, for $ 99.90 you get 3 bottles and for only $ 134.95 you get the best value for money – 6-month supply of the extra Garcinia. This offer is very limited and will not last long, so it makes sense to hurry before it ends.
Garcinia Cambogia Results:
Till now, there is no any negative response regarding this product. It only has an good effects that is helpful in building strong stamina side by side, reducing weight in a healthy way So, anyone can try this product, without any hesitation. It is a clinically proven product, with all natural ingredients in it. It has fruit extract that is pumpkin like fruit that gets found in Southeast Asia & India. So, you can trust this brand blindfold. It completely based on the dietary supplements. This product also works for the upliftment of the human body. These capsules are effective in supporting healthy cholesterol intensity. It also helps in turning human body fat toggle off by dropping the intensity of one of the body,s key hormones for weight loss. It also controls the craving, a hunger reducing intake of calories. So, what more you can expect from such capsules.
Garcinia Cambogia Reviews – Final Comment –
Real users Garcinia cambogia easily and rather enthusiastically confirm how the dietary supplement helped you lose weight, minimizing your emotional impulses to eat. With the normalization of serotonin, Garcinia cambogia helps prevent the stacking of unnecessary calories and those that are consumed anyway are effectively prevented from turning into fat and used as a source of energy instead.


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Product description:
The Titan Extruder Kit provides users with 3 times the normal torque because of the 1:3 gear ratio.
This kit includes the mount for NEMA 17 motor.
This product is designed to work with 1.75mm filament
NO MORE TANGLES the Titan extruder has a filament guide inside of the extrude assembly that makes sure proper constraint is placed upon the filament at all times.
Hardened Steel hobbed gear ensures the gear still grips even after long use and the special designs ensures that dust or grinned filament does not get in between the teeth
- The kit contains hardened 3:1 Gears for smooth long lasting operation even with the toughest filaments and ensures longevity of NEMA 17 motor
- Full ball-bearing operation insures smooth filament feed and filament guides are included to maintain proper operation even with flexible filaments.
- Allen wrenches are included in the kit to allow assembly
- This kit can work perfectly with your installed E3d-hotend and will allow users to upgrade their 3D printer's extrusion system
- Includes mount for the NEAM 17 motor
Returns Policy
You may return most new, unopened items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund. We'll also pay the return shipping costs if the return is a result of our error (you received an incorrect or defective item, etc.).
You should expect to receive your refund within four weeks of giving your package to the return shipper, however, in many cases you will receive a refund more quickly. This time period includes the transit time for us to receive your return from the shipper (5 to 10 business days), the time it takes us to process your return once we receive it (3 to 5 business days), and the time it takes your bank to process our refund request (5 to 10 business days).
If you need to return an item, simply login to your account, view the order using the 'Complete Orders' link under the My Account menu and click the Return Item(s) button. We'll notify you via e-mail of your refund once we've received and processed the returned item.
We can ship to virtually any address in the world. Note that there are restrictions on some products, and some products cannot be shipped to international destinations.
When you place an order, we will estimate shipping and delivery dates for you based on the availability of your items and the shipping options you choose. Depending on the shipping provider you choose, shipping date estimates may appear on the shipping quotes page.
Please also note that the shipping rates for many items we sell are weight-based. The weight of any such item can be found on its detail page. To reflect the policies of the shipping companies we use, all weights will be rounded up to the next full pound.


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Canopy Life Academy Wins "Leave Your Mark" Essay Contest
International Medical Group's (IMG) "Leave Your Mark" essay contest gives mission organizations the chance to win one of two $5,000 prizes to put towards their global outreach efforts. To enter, group administrators submit a 500-word essay that answers the question: "If your organization were to win, what would be your human impact?"
MissionSafe is thrilled that a 2018 contest winner is partner Canopy Life Academy!
Canopy Life Academy is a residential school in Kenya that prepares children to create a better future for their communities. They are committed to providing every student with the space, skills, resources, opportunity, and freedom to nurture their character and encourage their imagination.
"At Canopy Life, we believe God has wired the children of Africa with unique and beautiful ideas that can change the world. Our mission is to empower students to dream with their Creator and become who He has called them to be. We can do this through Christ-centered mentoring, quality education, and environments that spark imagination." -Canopy Life Academy
MissionSafe enthusiastically congratulates Canopy Life Academy and is so excited for the growth that winning the contest will bring to their inspiring organization.
Heading out into the world to make a difference? Missionsafe provides travel insurance for mission sending organizations and other international trips.


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I'm a single father of 3 wonderful children, Jacob, Jae, and Jasmine
My profession is Photograph and it also is my passion. I have into Photography for a little over 20 years. I recently have gotten into writing it started as a outlet for things that were just on my mind and needed a way to express them. Now it has become something I really enjoy. I'm far from being a professional but most have overlooked that fact and have encouraged me to continue on this path so here I am and starting from scratch since most of my past works were lost in a fire that took my home.
I have since been trying to get back on my feet and start over which hasn't been easy, for the past 5 years have been a series of events that have taken more than just my home. I have lost two men that meant so much to me. My Father John Ward, and my step Father Joe Hamilton. I lost both months apart. And 2 children have moved on in life going to college. while my son has moved stars away. oh yeah and my pug Buddy left with my twins but I knew he loved them and they would have more time for him.
My mother is still living and has become my best friend even if I don't always show that, she's my mother after all LOL. but she really is a caring woman and the light when all seems so dark.
As far as any other details about me I guess you will learn them if you take the time to get to know me. So visit the site and maybe some of it you'll like and leave comments. and there's always the chance that we will actually talk and become friends.


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The test to see if this is correct doesn't work. If you just code 'b = 0' then it is always correct!
This is really cool problem.
I get the correct answers for this, but the website refuses to tell me it is correct. Fix this dumb stuff.
@Harley, MATLAB functions are case sensitive. Did you try lowercase sum?
one of the hardest problems I've ever faced
enjoyed solving this
Hehe, improving on a cheat solution is always fun!
Nice one :)
Cute. Fixed the test suite.
The test for this problem is wrong!
Well, that was disappointing!
Back to basics 20 - singleton dimensions
248 Solvers
733 Solvers
How many trades represent all the profit?
629 Solvers
Set some matrix elements to zero
312 Solvers
388 Solvers


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ACS Realm and the Connect App
REALM Note: We have transitioned to Realm, ACS's cloud-based member records and directory. If you are a member of St. Matthews's and not currently enrolled in Realm, please contact the parish registrar to receive an invitation email and instructions for accessing Realm. Meanwhile, directory records are still available through the Members Connect app, Church Life.
Login to Realm
Privacy laws prevent us from changing your privacy settings without your consent. Follow these instructions to make your contact information available in the church directory:
CHANGING YOUR PRIVACY SETTINGS IN REALM – To appear in the church directory it is necessary for you to sign into REALM and set your privacy settings to Everyone. This can be done on either your home computer (pc) or on your Connect phone app:
On the pc, sign into REALM, go to the upper right hand corner of the screen where it has your name, and click the drop down. Choose My Profile. There are two buttons–Edit Profile and Privacy Settings.
On the phone app, sign in, choose the little 3-bars at the top that pulls out the menu and choose Profile, then Edit (the little pen icon). Under each kind of contact info (email, phone, or address) there's a little drop down menu that gives you options of who can see that info. You have to change each of these individually to Everyone, or whatever you choose. The easiest thing to do is to choose Everyone as your settings. This mean Everyone in the St. Matt's database.
Note: You can also change your address and other contact info in REALM yourself using these methods.
Please note: Only confirmed/baptized members of St. Matthew's have access to these confidential records. Members can be assured that no one else in the congregation can view or edit your personal information.
Get The Realm Connect App
Have a smart phone? download the Connect – Our Church Community to your phone and have access to the directory, connect with Ministry groups, Upload your photo and keep up with your Giving or make a Pledge.
ACS Realm Resource Center
Guides and Resource Links
Realm Help Center Profile and Privacy Guide Group Leadership Guide


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INDIANAPOLIS -- New training for Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department supervisors is designed to improve the department's relationship with the community.
The implicit bias training course has been a requirement for recruits with the department for several years, but recently supervisors have been going through the same training.
Lieutenant Michael Wolley says the training taught him that sometimes the decisions officers make are based on their own personal experiences.
READ | Program pairs police with houses of worship to improve community trust
"Key takeaways from the training - every person, whether an officer or a citizen you have unconscious biases," said Lt. Wolley.
The bias training is meant to teach officers to recognize situations where they may otherwise make a judgment without knowing the people they are dealing with or the situation they're coming from.
Sometimes, those biases leave you unprepared for a situation that may arise.
READ | Bailey family settles civil suit over fatal 2017 shooting
"I give you an example from an officer standpoint: When you look at elderly people. Typically when you think about elderly people, you think they may not be a threat - older and weaker. You may assume they may not be a threat physically. Officers can sometimes lower their officer safety when dealing with the elderly," said Lt. Wolley. "We know through history and specific to Indianapolis there have been some examples of older people who have hurt officers in the past. It's a good reminder that we need to be aware of those unconscious decisions we make - and keep our safety up."
IMPD Chief Bryan Roach says the training is an effort to build upon the police reform and enhancement plans announced by Mayor Joe Hogsett following the reinstatement of the two officers involved in the fatal shooting of Aaron Bailey.
MORE TOP STORIES | Homeowner selling home, moving out amid spat with HOA over goldfish ponds in driveway | Carmel named No.1 place to live in America | Suspected drug dealer arrested in heroin overdose | CALL 6: Drug maker stopped making popular antibiotic Levaquin amid concerns about mental health side effects | 1988: Indiana State police launch high-performance vehicle fleet with Ford Mustang
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Balsall Common Baby Slapper Convicted
The icsolihull website carries a story on a Balsall Common man convicted for baby slapping and neglect.
And at the icCoventry website there's a detailed account of events giving rise to the conviction.
Balsall's Christa Jones wins Charity Run
The icCoventry website covers Balsall Common's Christa Jones' victory in the second race at a Cancer Charity run held in Coventry.
Milly's Bikeathon
Milly, an employee at Balsall Common's Natwest Bank and her involvement in a massive charity bikeathon event.
Meriden's Manor Hotel Chef Scoops Award
In Meriden, Manor Hotel's chef Gary Brown wins the Coventry Chef of the year award.
Berkswell Cricket Club defeat
The icSolihull website site carries a report on Berkswell Cricket Club's recent defeat to Coleshill in the Birmingham League.


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A Question of Balance: Artists and Writers on Motherhood
Brand: Brand: Papier-Mache Press
Edition: 1st
- Used Book in Good Condition
Number Of Pages: 276
Publisher: Papier Mache Pr
Details: A Question of Balance not only celebrates the achievements of mothers in the arts, but also reveals some of the difficult choices and painful losses they have faced. Whether confronted with the everyday frustration of being interrupted or the unimaginable sorrow of losing a child, these extraordinary women have held fast to the thread of their creative spirit, inspiring others with their determination and perseverance. And as they explore their own maternal experience, in paintings and novels, sculptures and poetry, these women are creating works of art which widen our perspective and deepen our understanding of this most complex of human relationships.


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see: Obama Vetoes 9/11 Bill; Possible Override by Congress Looms. -Associated Press
The 9/11 Families deserve answers, redress. President Obama has had ample opportunity to remove cover up. Congress has a few days in September left to override the veto then go back to vacation/campaign in rigged elections. I am skeptical that they will override. IsraHell has a powerful lobby in Congress.


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How Does Rent To Own Work? – Rent To Own Real Estate – Many renters day dream of one day owning their own home, but may have trouble getting a mortgage or building up a down payment. In this situation, a rent-to-own agreement can help get you on the path to home ownership.. With a rent-to-own agreement, you get many of the benefits of renting a home while building towards the eventual purchase of the home you're living in.
current fha 30 yr fixed rate Mortgage Rates | See Today's Rates | Quicken Loans – View current home loan rates and refinance rates for 30-year fixed, 15-year fixed and more. Compare rates to find the right mortgage to fit your goals.
How Does A Rent To Own Home Agreement Work? – How Does A Rent To Own Home Agreement Work? The rent to own process is actually pretty simple. Join our property list and tell us what type of home you're looking for, your budget, etc (START with the form to the right); We'll send you local utah rent to own / lease option homes that fit your criteria or tell us what city you would like listings in.
how to get down payment for investment property Kushners' china deal flop Was Part of Much Bigger Hunt for Cash – Over the past two years, executives and family members have sought substantial overseas investment from previously. More likely: a foreign firm looking to get capital out of its country or seeking.
Economic Rents and Cost-Benefit Analysis – Society for Benefit-Cost. – In other instances, rent seeking takes other forms, such as bribery, corruption. competitors face in the short run, such as the granting of patents or other legal.
Calgary Rent To Own – Yes! You CAN Own A Home – We Can Help! We are not realtors who are selling someone else's homes, nor are we bankers or loan brokers who get paid to find you a loan.
How Do Rent-to-Own Home Purchases Work? | US News – Generally with rent-to-own agreements, the tenant pays the owner a deposit or monthly rent premiums, or both, with the intention of buying the home in the future. While some agreements offer the tenant an option to buy, others may require the tenant to buy at the end of the lease.
How Do Rent To Own Homes Work In Alabama? – Econo Homes, LLC – You're not required to buy the home at the end of a rent to own agreement in Alabama. the choice is fully yours. So, for the question of "how do rent to own homes work in Alabama". well that's the basic process. While there are lots of benefits of renting to own a home here locally. every housing option has pros and cons.
get prequalified for fha loan How to Get Pre-approved for an FHA Loan Online | Sapling.com – The reason for getting pre-approved for an FHA loan is so that you do not go through the home finding process just to find out that you do not qualify for an FHA loan. So follow these steps to make sure that you do qualify for the FHA loan and if so go ahead and fill out the pre-approved online fha loan application.
How Does A Rent To Own Home Agreement Work? – legal disclaimer: rent To Own Homes in Utah refers to properties for sale with lease-option financing or seller financing. This site does not charge for rental listings and is not a Pre Paid listing Service.
average costs to refinance a mortgage How Much Does It Cost To Refinance? | LendingTree – total estimated cost to Refinance. All totaled, the cost to refinance can run from $2,000-$5,000. Given that the total cost to refinance a mortgage is variable based on location (state regulations) and the lender, consumers should search live rates and get multiple offers to find the least-expensive plan.
How Does Rent to Own Work? Don't Get Scammed, Learn How Now! – Some Myths Uncovered About Rent To Own Homes. The option fee is paid upfront and is non-refundable, in the event you don't purchase the home. But, the option fee does go toward the purchase price of the house when you purchase down the road. The amount is usually 3-7% of the purchase price, but this is completely negotiable.


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They say life is about timing, and the same is true for Product Listing Ads. In order to serve the most relevant ad, a marketer must understand where a shopper is located within the buying cycle, and then promote a product that will provide the greatest opportunity for a conversion.
Let's take a look at a set of PLAs that appeared when I searched for the term "apple iphone." As you can see, the results show several versions of the phone, as well as an accessory. Which ad or ads don't belong?
Apple iPhone is a very broad query and the PLA results in the example above reflect that. In my opinion, the accessory should be the first ad to go. Also, the iPhone 3GS that's offered at the highest price point by Walmart should also be negated.
Promoting a product that is three generations old may not deliver the results that you're hoping for. Take a look at your products and note where each one is in relation to its product lifecycle. Start by promoting the most relevant ones. In the event you need to liquidate excess inventory, you may consider using PLAs to do so.
So how do you funnel traffic to the best target? Retailers have three options:
- Adjust bids
- Negate poorly performing queries
- Don't promote certain products at all
I recommend retailers use all three with an emphasis on negating poor performing queries.
Do you advertise products with a short lifecycle? How do you manage PLAs for them?
Get more best practices tips like these in our latest report, Four Advanced Google Shopping Strategies.
[custom_author=Stephanie Bailey ]


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A property developer is set to build 175 new homes in Bray after it agreed to purchase an eight-acre site on the Killruddery Estate. Glenveagh Properties is expected to pay about €9m for the land which is owned by the Brabazon family.
Last year under the new Bray Local Area Plan, an area in Killruddery behind Parklands Office Park directly opposite Bray Golf Club was rezoned for residential use.
Glenveagh chief executive Justin Bickle said it had not decided whether the Bray properties would be sold to occupiers or build-to-rent operators.
The news is a boost for house-hunters in the area as demand is seen as a major driver of prices in North Wicklow.
The highest median prices outside Dublin are in Wicklow at €315,001 while Enniskerry is the most expensive town outside of the capital, with average values reaching €638,000.
Overall, property prices rose for the second month in a row in April.
They were up 3.1pc nationally in the year, according to the Central Statistics Office.
This compares with an increase of 3.8pc in the year to March and an increase of 13.3pc in the year to last April.
Although prices are continuing to rise, the increases this year are at a slower rate than last year.
In Dublin, prices rose by just 0.5pc in the year to April, with no change in house prices.
The highest house price growth in Dublin was in South Dublin at 4pc, while Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown saw the greatest decline in house prices with a fall of 1.5pc.
Residential property prices in Ireland excluding Dublin were 5.6pc higher in the year to April.
Overall, the national index is 18.5pc lower than its highest level in 2007.


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Posted: March 25, 2014
The smooth operation of the nation's stock exchanges and capital markets is obviously crucial to a successful, prosperous economy. Because of this, the federal government has a vested interest in regulating these markets to ensure they are operating in a fair manner.
The US Securities and Exchange Commission is given this task. Consisting of five members appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, the SEC is largely responsible for regulating the stock and securities markets.
At Colling Gilbert Wright & Carter, our stockbroker fraud attorneys understand the nation's regulatory structure and all relevant laws and regulations.
If you've been the victim of stockbroker fraud and need an experienced attorney on your side, please call Colling Gilbert Wright & Carter today at 1-866-352-3476 for a free consultation.
The SEC was initially created by the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Of the five members on the board, one is appointed Chairperson. There can be no more than three members of the same party on the commission, and while the President can appoint commissioners, he cannot fire them. Commissioners serve five-year terms.
The SEC, aside from establishing regulations, also investigates complaints about securities fraud, insider trading and other violations of federal law. It can bring civil actions about companies and individuals and work with prosecutors in criminal cases.
Unfortunately, while most SEC staff members are committed public servants, they are sometimes overwhelmed and under-funded. Our stockbroker fraud attorneys provide a valuable service for everyday Americans like you by helping you with your specific case.
If you want to speak to an experienced stockbroker fraud attorney about your claim, please contact Colling Gilbert Wright & Carter today for a free consultation.


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This was published 15 years ago
Don't hound him, says psychiatrist
The maelstrom of public attention surrounding the release of Brian Jones could drive him to reoffend, a forensic psychiatrist warned yesterday.
Professor Paul Mullen said the risk in such cases was that the released prisoner could be left feeling so hounded and alienated that he would reoffend out of rage.
He said: "If you drive child molesters from pillar to post, leaving them with nothing to lose, then what's going to inhibit them from returning to their appalling behaviour?"
Professor Mullen said the best way to minimise the likelihood of "Mr Baldy", a serial offender, harming children again was to allow him to stabilise his life under strict supervision.
Jones, 58, is believed to be wearing an electronic ankle bracelet that sounds an alarm if he strays. He is also believed to be on medication to suppress his sex drive.
He is under curfew, is permitted to leave his residence only in the company of people approved by the Corrections Commissioner and must report to authorities regularly.
The Adult Parole Board yesterday expressed confidence in Corrections Victoria's handling of Jones' release but hit out at the media focus on it.
Parole board executive officer David Proban said: "It is exactly what should have been avoided. You and your colleagues have a lot to answer for."
Professor Mullen said child sex offenders were among the hardest to treat.
"Drugs used in the treatment of prostatic cancer have the side effect of removing sexual drive and they are potentially the most effective treatment for offenders like Mr Baldy," he said.
"You can reduce the risk of re-offending quite dramatically by psychological and physical treatment, by as much as 70 to 80 per cent, as long as you select the right treatment for the right child molester."
Professor Mullen said about 5 per cent of Australian children suffered serious sexual assault before reaching maturity but most were victims of people they knew, not unknown predators.
He said there was a small number of sexual offenders behind bars in Victoria who would never be released because no sensible person would take the risk of doing so.
Bernadette McMenamin, national director of the child protection agency Child Wise, said she was sure authorities had carefully assessed the risk posed by Jones.
"...the reality is that most sex offenders are out in the community without criminal records. Parents need to be cautious all the time," she said.


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- Dr Aubrey & Elsie Botha profile
Dr Aubrey & Elsie Botha
Tour Host
Aubrey and Elsie currently live and work in Cambridge, Ontario. They originally come from South Africa but immigrated to Canada in 2002. Aubrey is a full-time minister in the Presbyterian Church in Canada as well as an adjunct professor at Waterloo Lutheran Seminary in Waterloo, Ontario where he trains ministers and counselling students and teaches courses in the Old and New Testament. He has a passion for the Bible and the world of the Bible. Elsie is a teacher and ended her teaching career in South Africa as a school principal. They have three adult children (two boys and a girl) who share their passion for travelling and experiencing the world. Their daughter lives the dream working as a flight attendant for Emirates airlines.
They have been privileged to travel extensively to Europe, Turkey and Israel. They have both been to Israel numerous times. They enjoy travelling with groups and getting to know new people and sharing life-changing experiences with them. Aubrey and Elsie both have a passion for photography and enjoy spending time together on the ski-slopes or working in the garden.


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He's taken Beethoven into the classroom, too. He's constructed, and he teaches a massive open online course (MOOC) on Beethoven's piano sonatas. Anyone can take this class and learn a little something about Biss' beloved Beethoven – 100,000 people have taken advantage of this opportunity so far. He's still adding lectures to the MOOC.
|Scooped by Peter Mellow


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I wanted to call this post "France is shit" or, when I qualified it, "Annemasse is shit" and these thoughts kept me going today in the icy cold morning as I walked the 4.5km or so each way between the Swiss border at Thonex and the Decathlon store in Annemasse. I could have taken the bus, of course, but walking is what I do, so walking is what I did.
The weather got me down a bit. The forecast had predicted sunshine and highs of around 4 degrees. There wasn't any such high while we were out. And the sunshine stayed firmly above the thick inpenetrable cloud that hung over Geneva and Annemasse today. Mtoto was excited at the start of the day. He knew we were going to France and he knows from his maps book that France is another country. We had a bit of fun between the two border controls as Mtoto asked where Switzerland was. I swivelled the buggy round and pointed, "there's Switzerland". Mtoto asked where France was. I swung the buggy back and pointed and said "there's France". Mtoto could have gone on a lot longer with this game, whereas I tired after pointing each out about three times.
The first thing I noticed that was crap about Annemasse was the pavements. Really, in just a few metres we were on pavements that were in poor condition. They merged with other bad pavements. There were holes, there were ruptures. There were rarely dropped kerbs at the end and if there were, they were often blocked by parked cars. Cars were parked all over the place too, especially on pavements, especially blocking the whole pavement so that we had to go in the road. In one road they hadn't bothered with a pavement and still the cars were parked haphazardly. There were lots of signs and information boards and posts placed as if in the most obstructing place possible.
So those were the main reasons that I wanted to say that France is shit or Annemasse is shit. But it wouldn't have been fair. Especially not on France, which is otherwise lovely in my experience and especially just a few weeks ago when we visited friends in Divonne. And Annemasse isn't so bad really.
The first redeeming feature about Annemasse was that there was less dog poo on the streets than in Geneva. Still quite a bit and still spread across the pavement, but over all it felt like less. At the edge of the park was possibly a reason why. There was a space, perhaps only a few square metres, for dogs to poo in. And it was outside the park fence, whereas in Geneva these spaces are inside the park and consequently there is dog poo all over the whole of our parks.
Annemasse's second redeeming feature was the playground in Park de Montessuit. Recently refurbished (Google Street View shows construction works in the park), it offers two playgrounds for different age groups. Mtoto's playground had several climbing frames and slides, three rockables and a big see-saw. Apart from the hard cold ice and frost we had a good time. The tea towel we keep for wiping playing equipment dry was kept very busy! My favourite moment was when Mtoto climbed onto the motorbike rockable and asked me to join him in the sidecar. I didn't fit going forwards, so I had to sit in it backwards and gently rock us back and forth. When he wanted to go faster, I had to get off!
Decathlon was just like Decathlon in the UK, except that the staff were French rather than eastern European. We bought a Hamax bike seat for my Mtoto to ride on my bike, a helmet for him (big shout out to Etienne for his help!) and lots of extra running kit for me.
Me: Do you like this t-shirt?
Mtoto: No Pappa, I do not like it.
Me: Do you like this jumper?
Mtoto: Is there a smaller size for me Pappa? Why are you taking your trousers off Pappa?
Me: Because I need to know if the running trousers fit.
Mtoto: I don't want you to take your trousers off Pappa.
It was that sort of day. Mtoto didn't like anything I tried on, but he did like Kevin's biscuits. Our friend Kevin recently stayed over and he and his wife brought us a pack of goodies from the UK, including McVities Digestives. Mtoto like Kevin's Biscuits a lot! Decathlon and its prices were the third big redeeming feature for Annemasse. So much so that we'll be back to visit the shops again. We will probably do more park exploring too, as long as it is a bit warmer!
Janathon times for today:
2.24km in 20:38 (to the park).
2.62km in 29:34 (from the park, to Decathlon including time to stop and consult the internet after a wrong-turning).
4.60km in 42:19 (distance is an educated guess based on Google Maps after Endomondo lost GPS signal after 0.7km and didn't find it again for the next 3.8km or so, grrrr).
The birds list continues:
25. Chaffinch (seen in the park)
26. Common gull (seen yesterday, forgot to add)
27. Feral pigeon (seen every day, remembered to name it today)


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The variety and beauty of the Australian landscape, and the many senses it evokes – stillness, solitude, spirituality, awe – make it a destination unlike any other. This is our homage to the 'great southern land'.
Catherine Marshall
The Kimberly in Australia's northwest is so vast you could lose yourself in it – and many travellers do. But our journey along the fabled Gibb River Road was securely bookended by Derby in the west (reached via the old pearling outpost of Broome) and Kununurra in the east. All we had to do was head straight down this track – built to transport cattle from the region's stations – and we wouldn't get lost. And so we set off in our rented 4WD (essential for these conditions) along a 660km ribbon of corrugations that slices and dices its way through the country's most beautiful landscape: cavernous gorges carved from sandstone and clogged with rainforests; waterfalls gushing into icy rock pools – perfect for a cooldown, even when shared with freshwater crocodiles (care should always be taken not to swim in waterways inhabited by saltwater crocs; check for signposts); tracks the colour of oxblood trailing off into the bush; mountain ranges painted in stripes of pink and gold and purple by the setting sun; rock-faces stippled with art by Australia's First People eons ago. We bedded down on vast cattle stations and glamped in tents tucked into tussock grass. All too soon we reached the end of the (glorious dirt) road.
Photos © Catherine Marshall. For more information visit Tourism Australia's Gibb River Road page and Tourism Western Australia.
Zora Regulic
Smoked, fried, grilled, baked, stuffed – ahhh, the many ways with fresh trout caught in the rivers and dams of the New South Wales high country. I have vivid memories of myself as a little girl camping and fishing with my father at Lake Tatangara dam in the Kosciusko National Park, and arriving home with enough trout to feed our extended family.
All those years ago, there was something about this landscape that caught my eye and my heart. I've always loved "the Snowies" (the Snowy Mountains, the highest on mainland Australia), whether it be to go skiing, snowboarding, hiking or just enjoying the scenery from a balcony with a view of the magnificent high country.
Granite boulders are scattered across the landscape, almost as if a giant had decided to cast them on the earth like a bag of marbles. These are the first signs that I am getting closer to the high country. The road starts to narrow and wind like a red-bellied black snake, the mountains close in and I know I've arrived. There is something magic about following the beautiful summer hiking trails that cross gentle streams and weave through wildflowers and snow gums, onwards past melting winter snow drifts all the while magnificent views unfold at every bend in the trail.
This ancient landscape makes my heart sing. TTW
For more information visit National Parks NSW, Visit NSW, Snowy Mountains, Visit Tumut and Visit Tumbarumba.
Bernard O'Shea
Port Stephens is a reminder of how wonderful Sydney would have been if only 5 million people hadn't descended on it. Its harbour is twice the size of Sydney's and it's blessed with beautiful beaches and stunning scenery, yet only about 70,000 people are scattered around its shores and in the rest of the local government area, which is pretty sizable at 980 square kilometres. Shoal Bay, the most easterly stretch on the southern shore, is where I always stay, and I have many wonderful memories of the place: parasailing for the first time – the views were awesome, the experience exhilarating; encounters with bottlenose dolphins – Port Stephens is home to more than 100 of them; doing the walk with my dad to the lookouts on Tomaree Mountain, which has great views inland and out to sea, as the photo above attests; and romantic dinners at the waterfront restaurants along the esplanade (wink, wink, coy smile). Shoal Bay is a U-shaped suburb bordered on both sides by the Tomaree National Park, and as a result it's quiet and has the feel of a sleepy suburb. I count this as a bonus – catching up on one's sleep is part of a holiday, right? If you need brighter lights, Nelson Bay, just a short drive away, is where most of the shops, resorts and restaurants are.
If it's so big and beautiful, why do comparatively few people live there? The answer is its geography. This part of the NSW coast is dotted with lakes, making a coastal north-south highway impractical. So the "Pacific Highway" veers inland – 50km inland from Shoal Bay from the turn-off near Raymond Terrace, in this instance. In the early days of settlement, it would have been considered a bit of a backwater. All up it's a 205km drive from Sydney.
Incidentally, Hawks Nest on the northern side of the bay was renowned as the place where former Australian Prime Minister John Howard spent his Christmas holidays – religiously, year after year, for decades. But as he was viewed by many as a dour and dull conservative, it wasn't necessarily a seal of approval to brag about!
For more information visit: Port Stephens' official website and Visit NSW.
Diana Streak
Let me tell you the story of Walala Tjapaltjarri. This was a man who had, as they liked to say, "come out of the desert" in 1984. I arrived in Alice in 2005 for a story commissioned by my newspaper and what unfolded never made it to print. That red soil, the determined vegetation, the extraordinary Uluru Rock, which was to me like a religious epiphany, and above all else the people who made me, in my limited way, understand what this incredible continent is about touched a nerve like no other place.
Alice Springs. The name conjures up images like no other in Australia – A Town Called Alice, Wake in Fright, and the dreadful story of "a dingo's got my baby!" of Azaria Chamberlain. But rest assured gentle visitors, this heart of Australia is the most true and beautiful place in this extraordinary continent. There are a few reasons for this and in my experience, admittedly limited, they are threefold. The landscape, the people, the remoteness.
Linx Macpherson's Tingari Arts embraced a number of artists, including Walala and Pansy Napangardi. I asked him about his painting and Walala smiled – or did he? He looked at me with his eyes, opaque and mysterious, and went back to painting – red, black, white. Outside and beyond, Uluru beckoned in all its unclimbed glory, Kata Tjuta lured and Alice's night life boomed on until the wee hours.
His four paintings – individual but as one – hang on a wall in my home and visitors who admire them can only dream of his life in the desert.
For more information visit: Tourism Australia and the Northern Territory official tourism page.


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HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Today, we take a scenic drive up the windward side.
Lets start with a cute little condo, with incredible views of the ocean! Drink your morning coffee on your large lanaias as you take in the sunrise.
The interior is nice and spacious, too, with recent updates to the kitchen. There's a salt water pool on the property. Its going for about $400,000!
You can't go wrong with this condo, either. It's in the same complex, just a little more expensive
The spacious floor plan give you plenty of room to roam. Plus, there's a cool loft to relax in.
This one has two bedrooms and two bathrooms and again, your'e looking right out at the beautiful pacific ocean in all its glory! The price tag for this one is $475,000!
If your'e in the market for a home, you'll want to see this cozy plantation-style house.
Just walk to the beach from your lush green property, that's nestled into a neighborhood off the main highway. This classic home has two bedrooms and two bathrooms, on a one thousand square foot lot. Plus, there's a two car garage and wooden floors.
Its on the market for $699,000.
If your'e looking for your dream home, head out to an open house this weekend!
Copyright 2019 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.


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Amaterasu complete bridal outfit unique wedding dress ensemble alternative non-traditional Japanese inspired
A mermaid shaped skirt, with a slimming corset-like Obi belt and ethereal kimono combine to compliment your feminine curves and create a beautiful silhouette. This one goes out for the brides with extravagant taste and strong sense of style. Our exclusive design, this complete wedding outfit is the culmination of our "Spring in Kyoto" collection, by creating a gorgeous silhouette resembling the divine Amaterasu, the Japanese goddess of sun. You will fall in love with the unique materials...
Источник : https://www.etsy.com/listing/125821188/amaterasu-c
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