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Holding the power to flash memories from the past, ignite feelings you were hoping to forget and poking nostalgia through the mere sense of smell, a whiff from a perfume strip is mightier than anticipated.
A spritz on the wrist was traditionally done to camouflage bad smell from the body, but over time, it's become a symbol of status and personality.
We wear perfume to complement our own odour, rather than to mask the natural essence of our skin. But what is the smell that we want to leave behind? Do we want perfume to add character to our existing self or are we looking to recreate a new individual? Almost, like an alter ego.
History of perfumes
Egyptians get a big chink of credit for making perfumes part of their lifestyle around the 6th century. They used real flower petals, food spices and cooking oil to create various scents that were applied by both men and women on their body, pre and post bath.
Then Cleopatra came into the picture and gave perfumes an equation of pure luxury and class, by laying in the bathtub and soaking herself in aromatic essential oils.
This craze for a splash of liquid spread to Syria, Lebanon, Italy, England and, of course, France where Marie Antoinette took serious notes on what she wanted her signature scent to be.
About 200 years ago, inspired by the flower garden of Palace of Versailles, Marie Antoinette got Parisian perfume-house Lubin to put together a custom-made scent for her and keep it a top-secret (now back on the market as Black Jade).
But in the world of fashion, it all commercially started in the 1920s, when Ernest Beaux created Chanel No.5 for Coco Chanel. Coco was famously quoted saying that a woman should wear perfume whenever she hoped to be kissed.
Truly so, perfumes are a tool of allurement; a scent ignites the fire of sex and sensuality – both in men and women. A perfume should entail a scent that makes you feel sexy and wanted. Its initial inhalation needs to levitate to a cloud of pleasure and contentment, a place where the mental metaphors go wild. A perfume should make you want to daydream two seasons ahead, the crispness of spring needs to come alive on your skin, while you should also be embraced by the dead warmth of autumn.
Rise of celebrity perfumes
So, this brings us to how to choose a scent: your signature scent, so to speak.
Do you stick with classics from the rulebook or let a celebrity dictate your senses?
Elizabeth Taylor launched the celebrity-fragrance phenomenon in 1991 with White Diamonds, and ever since, it's become a ritual to launch a perfume for every big screen star. They don't even have to be a superstar to do so.
Till date, Jennifer Lopez has released 16 perfumes, Celine Dion is close at 15 releases and Paris Hilton has 11 perfume titles to her name (with three for men). These numbers provide evidence for celebrity perfumes not being an alien concept anymore, be it a boy band or a mega Hollywood star.
As a consumer of pop culture, are we inclined to buy a fragrance that is bottled with fame? Surely, the prolific perfumes are attached with an aura of entertainment. Obviously, we don't expect a tall bottle to burst out in a song, but we do relate them to a music album or movie. It reinstates our faith in the said celebrity and the bottle on the dressing table gets an image.
How could you not trust Justin Bieber to launch a top-quality perfume?
Luxury brand perfumes
But in all seriousness, where does this leave mainstream luxurious brands? Fashion houses like Elizabeth Arden, Christian Dior, Tom Ford and Gucci, who've been the trendsetters in the fragrance industry, are now competing in a market inundated with Disney kid stars with anime-shaped perfume bottles. Their exquisitely styled and photographed campaign images with the season's top model, might get the consumer roaring towards their individual counters, but it still gets down to solving the dilemma between Beyonce's latest and Chloe's top-seller.
Has the perfume industry lost its niche with an avalanche of options readily available at airport counters? Would swimming in a sea of Chanel No. 5 still be considered a novelty? Or would you rather pick an obviously chosen scent, so when next time you walk on the street, people recognise you as Rihanna's doppelganger?
Build your own perfume personality
A fragrance really needs to be about what you want to smell like, as opposed to who. Be it freshly cut grass, a vanilla milkshake or your Grandparent's ancestral home, the linger in the air needs to be about the top, middle and bottom notes in the fragrance, not the name on the bottle.
And while you're choosing that signature scent, you need to acquaint it with your natural scent. Adding your own personality to the perfume is, somehow, more valuable than letting a luxurious label introduce itself to the crowd. When you're stuck in an elevator, would you want people to say, "Oh, she's wearing CK One," or would you rather have them insinuate the fragrance in an embrace?
It honestly comes down to a personal choice of letting your aura decide who you want to be for the day. You could pick the most expensive bottle on the shelf, but it's all about the scent honoring your style, personality and lifestyle.
You need to pick a scent, whose tantalizing whiff can be associated with you and your skin. Be it patchouli, rose, ylang ylang, vanilla, musk or spicy wood, you need to decide who you want to be that day and what you want to leave behind you.
Over the next few weeks, Fashionising.com will take you on a beautifully scented tour of perfumes. We'll feature season's top fragrances, do perfume reviews and help you find your personality via a simple spritz. Do come back for more.
Five tips to picking a scent
Ranked from strongest to lightest – Parfum, Eau de Parfum, Eau de Toilette, Eau de Cologne and perfume mist. Parfum is the richest, most authentic form of perfume with 15-20% of aromatic compounds, while Eau de Toilette is the most commonly worn type (5-15% of aromatic compounds).


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Lindsey is expecting silent nights this holiday. Just her and her boys while her husband serves overseas. But her blue Christmas turns merry when things start rockin' under the mistletoe thanks to a surprise gift from her naughty Santa.
Eggnog Makes Her Easy
Boys of the Big Easy Novella
Erin Nicholas
Pub Date: 11/30/18
Rating: 5/5
Eggnog Makes Her Easy is a Boys of the Big Easy novella and it is the sweetest! I love eggnog but I will never think of it in the same way since reading this short story.
Erin Nicholas jumps back into the lives of the single parents support group with a pick me up story that gives you all the feels and makes you appreciate the time spent with family. I loved seeing two characters, brave in their own way, support each other and endure challenges unique to their situation.
This novella is packed with heartwarming and sexy scenes. There's even a little tension when it comes to whether or not Lindsey and Matt will be able to continue to make their marriage work because of the unpredictability of his profession. It definitely makes me want to dive back into the Boys of the Big Easy series, like now!
*ARC provided in consideration for review*
Download your copy today!
Start the Boys of the Big Easy series for FREE with Easy Going!
About Erin Nicholas
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Erin Nicholas has been writing romances almost as long as she's been reading them. To date, she's written over thirty sexy, contemporary novels that have been described as "toe-curling," "enchanting," "steamy," and "fun." She adores reluctant heroes, imperfect heroines, and happily ever afters.
Erin lives in the Midwest, where she enjoys spending time with her husband (who only wants to read the sex scenes in her books), her kids (who will never read the sex scenes in her books), and her family and friends (who claim to be "shocked" by the sex scenes in her books).

subset: commoncrawl


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$20 Nintendo eShop Card
Gift card adds $20 to your Nintendo eShop account.
For Use only on Nintendo 3DS and WiiU.
24/7 Delivery & Support
1. Select the Nintendo eShop icon on the HOME menu.
2. Select "Add Funds." or "Balance."
3. Select "Redeem a Nintendo eShop Card."
4. Enter the 16-character activation code from the back of the prepaid card, then select "OK" to complete the transaction.
Need a Last Minute Gift for a Friend?
Buying a last minute gift is stressful. Forget about all the stress and get an instant Nintendo eShop card. It is emailed straight to your inbox within 5-15 minutes.


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Language discussion and expression, a view from the city: "A fascinating and enlightening look at language and other important matters" - Rick Kogan, Chicago Tribune "...definitely an interesting voice!" - Languagehat.com "...a great site!" - Mary Beard, Times Literary Supplement
lego Stargate
Here's something delightfully nerdy: a Stargate made totally from Legos. It rotates, "spins the inner ring randomly for x seconds, then reverses direction, seven times" and its chevrons light up!
Check out all the features. It takes real talent to create this type of thing. Incredibly nifty!
Posted by Margaret Larkin at 8:03 AM
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This collection of news stories captures insight and contributions by KPMG subject matter experts. The industry coverage mentions include KPMG senior partners in global mining sector.
Mining news story featuring commentary from Jacques Erasmus, Global Head of Mining at KPMG International
Survival mode: Platinum producers face a major struggle in these trying times
Interview with Jacques Erasmus, Global Head of Mining at KPMG International
Is a copper shortage in the pipeline?
Low copper prices have led to big cuts in exploration and development but what does the next phase of cycle look like?
Mining executives expect medium-term growth despite weak economy
Fewer than half of the senior mining and metals executives voice any level of confidence in the prospects for the global economy over the next two years.
KPMG Global Metals and Mining survey
Given the tight relationship between the fortunes of the global economy and that of the global metals and mining industry, it does not bode well that fewer than half of the senior metals executives responding to the survey which is reflected in the KPMG International's 2016 Global Metals & Mining Outlook" voice any level of confidence in the prospects for the global economy over the next two years.
Metal execs turning lemons into lemonade
A survey reflected in the KPMG International's 2016 Global Metals & Mining Outlook noted that less than half of the executives responding depicted low levels of confidence in the prospects of the global economy over the next two years.
Mining execs are making the best of a difficult situation
While confidence in the global economy is low, KPMG's 2016 Global Metals & Mining Outlook survey suggests that most metals executives believe they can survive and maybe even grow in the medium term.
Executives are making the best of a difficult situation
Growing existing market share and entering into new markets top strategies.
Executives believe they can survive lower metals outlook – KPMG
Fewer than half of senior metals executives responding to KPMG International's 2016 Global Metals & Mining Outlook survey voiced any level of confidence in the prospects for the global economy over the next two years.
Can the draft mining sector help to stimulate growth?
CNBC Africa interview with Yoliswa Msweli, Associate Director, Social Investment Services Lead, KPMG in South Africa.
African mining has potential to grow stronger
Africa is the most mineral-rich continent in the world and has the potential to become a mining mecca.
The good, the bad and the ugly of African capital markets
Article by Robbie Cheadle, (CA) SA Associate Director – JSE Advisory Services, Mergers & Acquisitions at KPMG in South Africa
Higher gold price ensures stable South African sector
The record high gold price in rand terms has proven to be a stroke of luck for South African companies functioning within the global gold sector.
Mining Magazine: Resourceful thinking - less fire-fighting and more planning in the procurement process
This article appeared in the April 2016 issue of the Mining Magazine and appears here with publisher's permission.
CIO Review - India Edition
KPMG mining risk survey: Settling the dust
KPMG in South Africa last week launched its mining risk survey. This comes after the firm hosted its first Mining Executive Forum in South Africa in 2015.
Falling demand at Mining Indaba
ALL eyes will be on SA's third mines minister in three years when he addresses the annual Mining Indaba in Cape Town on Monday morning against the backdrop of enormous regulatory uncertainty, global turmoil in commodity prices and a host of cost and labour pressures in the industry.
Getting to ground in South Africa's mining industry
Professional services firm KPMG's head of mining in South Africa Jacques Erasmus says South Africa's once mighty and economy dominating mining industry is, at present, in dire straits and is fraught with crisis and increased investor scrutiny.
Mega-trends shaping the mines of the future
For an industry so accustomed to volatility, mining has faced many challenges over the past couple of years. The fall in commodity prices does not make it any easier as shareholders push for lower costs and greater returns on investment. It makes the case for innovation even more compelling.
Creating value in SA's mining industry could be a game changer
As plunging commodity prices squeeze South Africa's mining industry, CNBC Africa's Godfrey Mutizwa caught up with Lord Michael Hastings, Global Head of Citizenship at KPMG International, to get insights on how creating value can be a game changer for the industry.
Population growth bodes well for mining sector's future
The mining industry was the most underperforming business industry globally for a fourth consecutive year, South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy fellow Michael Solomon revealed on Wednesday.
Ms Sabina Jane SHUGG, Fremantle, WA
For significant service to the mining industry through executive roles in the resources sector, and as a role model and mentor to women.
We want inclusive workplaces where all are welcome and feel included. Regardless of colour, religion, sexual preferences or gender. Or, for that matter, even if you have a strange sense of humour, you still want to be accepted.
Sabina Shugg talks about receiving a Member of the Order of Australia
Sabina Shugg talks about receiving a Member of the Order of Australia as part of the 2015 Queen's Birthday honours list.
Asset impairments, non-GAAP measures among trends affecting financial reporting in mining sector
With the change in commodity prices affecting the mining sector globally, financial reporting on operations has become significant for companies as this has an impact on how mining companies strategise to keep their companies operational.
KPMG to discuss Africa's mining sector
Against the backdrop of growing investor concern in Africa's mining sector, professional services firm KPMG will be hosting the Mining Executive forum on 9 and 10 September 2015.
This Group of Investors Are Taking A Step Back
Plummet goes the oil price, falling more than 50 percent since last year. Tapering due to efficiency measures and weakening economies in various regions like Asia and the US certainly helped this.
How countries can use taxes to maximise the benefits from mining, to both investors and the custodians of minerals.
Mohammed Jada Tax Partner in R & D Tax and Incentives KPMG - Video
SA prepares to woo mining investors
South Africa, which continues to be challenged to build a more robust and sustainable mining industry, is rolling out the red carpet today to reassure investors regarding opportunities in the sector.
Zambia's decision to triple royalty rates on open pit mining from 6% to 20%.
Indaba an opportunity for SA mining
THE annual Mining Indaba, which begins in Cape Town today, was an opportunity for South Africa to restore confidence among investors amid signs the country's mines minister had made a good initial impression, said BDLive.
Mining indaba still 'relevant as ever' - analyst
Mixed perceptions around the importance of Cape Town's Mining Indaba.
How to attract investment at the 2015 Mining Indaba
Despite the challenges of continued decline in commodity prices and the lack of return on investment, there remains a great opportunity on the continent for mining to grow, professional services firm KPMG South Africa CEO Moses Skosana said on Thursday.
Mining companies suffer $70bn in impairment losses – report
A recent survey revealed that major global mining companies had suffered impairment losses of $70-billion in 2013/14, reflecting the impact of the current low commodity price cycle.
The Mining Financial Reporting Survey 2014
The 'Mining Financial Reporting Survey 2014' by KPMG has revealed that major global mining companies have suffered losses of $70-billion in 2013/14, reflecting the impact of the current low commodity price cycle.
Mining companies report a $70 billion impairment loss for 2014 – KPMG
The major global mining companies surveyed by KPMG's Mining Financial Reporting Survey 2014 reported an impairment loss of $70 billion in the 2013/2014 financial year — signaling the impact of the low commodity price cycle currently being experienced.
Mining companies report increase in impairment loss: Jacques Erasmus, KPMG
The 25 largest mining companies recorded a $70bn loss on impairments in 2013/14.
The impact of falling commodity prices on the global economy
The falling commodity prices have had significant impact on the global economy both at a macro and microl level, in this respect there has been concern that the oil and gas industry has developed faster than legislation.
Halt in reforms likely as lower oil price cuts exploration projects, KPMG warns
Delays in the development of potential oil and gas projects owing to the sharp downturn in oil and gas prices could potentially lead to a cutback in reforms and regulatory processes and cause the urgency to create an attractive investment destination for oil and gas players to diminish.
Africa rising' narrative takes a hit as foreign investors scale back investment
As mining industry bigwigs meet in Cape Town this week to talk investment in Africa, there is a palpable sense of what are politely being called "challenging times.
Extractive Industries Have More To Offer Investors
According to KPMG Africa's extractive industries have more to offer investors. Joining CNBC Africa is Robbie Cheadle, associate director of mergers and acquisitions advisory services at KPMG in South Africa.
Is the mining industry ready to invest in electric vehicles on a large scale?
Gold supply declining despite increased demand in 2013
A drop in gold recycling and limited production growth by mining compa- nies were the main contributors to the drop in supply of the precious metal during 2013, says professional service firm KPMG gold commodity lead partner Daniel Hooijer.
AMCU platinum strike to loom over Mining Indaba
The AMCU strike at three of South Africa's top platinum producers is likely to dominate the debate at the Mining Indaba from 3 to 6 February in Cape Town.
Pit-to-port infrastructure needs injection of funds and innovation
Underdeveloped infrastructure and infrastructure spending deficit remains a major obstacle to growth for Africa and this could not be truer than for the mining sector plagued by insufficient pit-to-port infrastructure.
SA mining needs improved dialogue - KPMG
As stakeholders sit down to resolve the current impasse among platinum producers, workers and the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU), KPMG on Monday reiterated the need for improved dialogue.
As mining companies attempt to manage their asset life cycle in this new landscape, their three main strategic priorities are growth, performance and compliance.
Over the past four years, KPMG firms have successfully emerged as a leading force in mid cap M&A, having built up a significant network of local M&A teams and investment banking professionals, hired from major investment banks around the world.
Decline in global mining development impacts on Africa
Disappointing returns over the previous commodity supercycle have resulted in declining investor confidence in the global mining industry, subsequently reducing capital inflows and negatively impacting on the African mining industry, professional services firm KPMG global head of mining Wayne Jansen tells Mining Weekly.
© 2019 KPMG International Cooperative ("KPMG International"), a Swiss entity. Member firms of the KPMG network of independent firms are affiliated with KPMG International. KPMG International provides no client services. No member firm has any authority to obligate or bind KPMG International or any other member firm vis-à-vis third parties, nor does KPMG International have any such authority to obligate or bind any member firm. All rights reserved.
Member firms of the KPMG network of independent firms are affiliated with KPMG International. KPMG International provides no client services. No member firm has any authority to obligate or bind KPMG International or any other member firm vis-à-vis third parties, nor does KPMG International have any such authority to obligate or bind any member firm.
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The Germans have a word for it.
Yes, there is a word for "end of work". An actual word devoted specifically to the moment of finishing work for the evening, the weekend or a holiday.
Feierabend is the happy moment of popping your beer open with a lighter, leaving the office, and cycling off into the evening.
It's the moment when you can forget work and get on with life.
It's the light at the end of the tunnel.
Feierabend is the thing every employee looks forward to with anticipation and joy – yet the term doesn't exist in English. How is that possible?
"Schönen Feierabend" is probably the most used term by German colleagues, and, it doesn't matter if it's evening or not.
It's something I miss at the end of the day.
What a brilliant word!


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Advanced Search
Green Schools | News
Energy efficiency is more important to K-12 IT managers than ever. About three-quarters of all K-12 organizations have a program in place or in development to reduce IT energy consumption, and most of those have already begun seeing cost savings from their efforts, according to new research released this week. But barriers to more widespread energy efficiency initiatives remain.
Schools are beginning to see some payoff from green initiatives in IT.
Top 5 Green Practices Among IT Leaders, 2010 Based on the results of CDW-G's survey, these are the five most common practices cited by IT leaders who have realized actual savings by reducing energy consumption.
Source: "CDW-G 2010 Energy Efficient IT Report."
Sixty-three percent of K-12 organizations that have energy efficiency programs in place have experienced at least some savings in IT energy expenditures, according to a new report focusing on IT practices in 2010. Another 22 percent have reduced or flattened out energy use, but increasing energy costs have prevented them from realizing savings.
According to the new "2010 Energy Efficient IT Report," released this week by CDW Government, energy efficiency is more important to K-12 IT managers than ever. About three-quarters (74 percent) of all institutions have a program in place or in development to reduce energy consumption in IT. But barriers to more widespread energy efficiency initiatives remain.
The survey for the 2010 Energy Efficient IT Report was conducted by O'Keeffe & Co. for CDW-G. It involved online interviews with hundreds of organizations across sectors, including 302 K-12 school districts and higher education institutions. (There is a margin of error of ±3.5 percent for cross-sector results and ±8 percent for results covering education specifically.)
Across all sectors, IT managers now more than ever are citing energy efficiency as "very important" when considering new equipment purchases. Thirty-nine percent of those surveyed who have responsibility for procurement ranked energy efficiency as an 8 or higher in importance (on a 10-point scale), up from 26 percent just last year. Further, 31 percent said they would be willing to pay a premium for energy-efficient technology.
"Energy efficiency is no longer an afterthought, but a key requirement in many organizations' IT purchasing plans," said Norm Lillis, vice president of system solutions at CDW, in a statement released to coincide with the survey results. "Not only is excess energy consumption a drain on budgets, it also limits the ability of IT managers to provide more and better IT services to employees and customers when aging data centers approach the limits of their power sources. Improving energy efficiency is often the only way to enable improved computing performance in a power-constrained environment."
In K-12 education, 77 percent of respondents said their schools "have or are developing a specific data center consolidation strategy." That tracked closely with IT organizations across public and private sectors, 79 percent of which are also consolidating their data centers.
According to the report, virtualization (of servers or storage) is the most popular tactic used or being considered for data center consolidation, with 63 percent of organizations across sectors citing it as part of their strategy. Consolidating servers came in second at 61 percent. Other tactics cited were cloud computing (37 percent); retiring old, unused servers (36 percent); and moderating server operations during off-peak hours (22 percent), among others.
Despite ongoing efforts and evidence of cost savings, the survey also showed that barriers still exist to more effective energy reduction programs. In education, as across all sectors surveyed, budget is the most critical issue. In K-12, another major concern cited by respondents was the Inability to isolate and measure IT energy use.
Overall, other constraints cited this year included:
Further information, including a complete copy of the "2010 Energy Efficient IT Report" with methodology, can be found on CDW-G's site here.
About the Author
David Nagel is editorial director of 1105 Media's Education Technology Group and editor-in-chief of THE Journal and STEAM Universe. A 25-year publishing veteran, Nagel has led or contributed to dozens of technology, art and business publications.
He can be reached at email@example.com. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn at or follow him on Twitter at @THEJournalDave (K-12) or @CampusTechDave (higher education).
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Every day schools are exposed to cyberthreats trying to gain access to personal and financial data. With the ever-changing threat landscape and the growing sophistication of targeted attacks against organizations, endpoints in educational institutions need to be protected now more than ever.
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I was fascinated by this book about teenage girls turned mermaids during the most traumatic time in their lives.
The mythology of this story is amazing.
Abused girls turn into mermaids and then proceed to sing ships to their death, thus venting their anger and pain on the human beings who hurt them.
This is a very interesting premise for a book, as it deals with themes such as justice, forgiveness and the value of human life. A you can imagine, this community made up of hurt girls is quite disfunctional, and the majority of the book deals with that. The girls' realtionships, their petty fights -or bigger ones, their friendships and their competitiveness.
A book about sirens could not be without its tribute to art, and indeed sometimes the narration is so lyrical and poetic that it touches the reader's very soul. There are beautiful descriptions that bring the sea-world to life, and even though sometimes it is a dark, cold world, some other times it is bursting with light, colour and activity.
What I especially liked about this book was its depth. It travels deep into the human heart, trying to decipher motives and sentiments, portraying the battle between evil and good that takes place within all of us.
The heroine, Luce, was a perfect, tragic heroine, making mistakes and hurting, yet rising above them and trying to defeat her darker side. I was captivated by her strength and compassion.
There wasn't any romance in this book, although there is the promise of one -maybe in the next?- and it ended in the most absolute cliff-hanger. This was even worse than the Runours by Anna Godbersen cliffhanger (if you know what I mean).
These two are the reasons this book doesn't get a perfect five, because otherwise it was indeed perfect.
Don't be fooled by the pretty mermaid on the goregous cover, this is a dark book, delving into the dark depths of the dangerous ocean and of the human soul.
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: 7/4/2011


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Adelaide Hotels
The centre of Adelaide, South Australia is well supplied with high standard hotels, including the Hyatt Regency overlooking the River Torrens and the Hilton on Victoria Square. Other high standard Adelaide hotels include The Sebel Playford Adelaide and the Rockford Adelaide.
Family and pub-style Adelaide hotel accommodation is also available in the city, as is backpackers accommodation. For other budget accommodation options, you can pitch your tent at one of Adelaide's caravan parks in the beachside town of Glenelg, or in the caravan park in the centre of Adelaide city within walking distance to all attractions.
Self service apartments in Adelaide are stylish and comfortable options for extended stays or family holidays, giving you the freedom to cook your own meals and bring the comforts of home to your holiday.
If you are looking for a cosy and private retreat, head out into the Adelaide Hills for a Bed and Breakfast cottage away from the city lights.
Adelaide Australia accommodation is as varied as you are. You are sure to find something just right for you.
- Hahndorf Motel
- Southern Ocean Retreats
- Regency Apartments
- The Franklin Hotel
- McLaren Vale Motel & Apartments
- Aldgate Valley Bed and Breakfast
- Nomads Queenstown
- Quest on King William
- Princes Lodge Motel
- Mansions on Pulteney
- Oaks Plaza Pier
- Hotel Richmond
- Michelle's Garden Apartments
- Atlantic Tower Motor Inn
- Adelaide Meridien Hotel and Apartments
- Comfort Inn Haven Marina
- Manor Estate
- Quality Hotel Manor
- Lindy Lodge Motel
- Adelaide City Park Motel


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The record industry is hoping that a little magic will solve its problems with online piracy by file sharers.
The Recording Industry Association of America has been talking up a company named Audible Magic to lawmakers and regulators in Washington in recent weeks in an attempt to show that file-sharing networks can be tamed.
The company, based in Los Gatos, California, has developed a technology that it says can spot copyrighted materials while they are being passed from computer to computer and block the transfer.
Audible Magic executives say that their software can be used in devices that attach to computer networks, or it can be written into the file-sharing software from companies like Kazaa and Grokster.
"We think the technology is extraordinarily promising," said Mitch Bainwol, the chairman of the music industry group. "We said from the start that technology may pose some risks, but it offers the solution."
File-sharing companies have argued that they cannot control copyright infringement on their networks.
"I think it does change the game," said Josh Bernoff, a principal analyst with Forrester Research. "Now if you're a legislator, you're going to have to make a decision about whether you're going to protect the rights of downloaders, or of the people who own the copyrights to the music."
Record industry executives, who have said that they are against government-ordered technology fixes for copyright problems, said that they are not asking Congress to act, at least at this time. Instead, Bainwol said, his industry would like to see the "peer-to-peer" companies add the software to their wares.
"It really puts the P2P community to the test," he said. "Are they serious about becoming legitimate, or are they not serious?"
The chief executive of a company with a product that could be put to similar uses said that the file-trading companies were unlikely to sign up.
"It destroys their model," said Mark Ishikawa, the chief executive of BayTSP, a company that monitors file-trading activity for entertainment companies. He never developed a file blocker, he said, because "for us, it's a waste of time."
Vance Ikezoye, the chief executive of Audible Magic, said that businesses could emerge from the use of his technology, which he said could be used to help sell legitimate music, not just block the illegitimate kind. The file-sharing companies and those that work with them are unsurprisingly unenthusiastic about the music industry's flirtation with Audible Magic.
Marty Lafferty, the chief executive of the Distributed Computing Industry Association, a trade group for the companies, said the software "falls considerably short" of what is necessary to work with such fast-changing technology.
"P2P is an evolving technology that can only be understood by working more closely with the developers of these applications," Lafferty said.


text: GBI 14 Posted August 11, 2017 At the moment there are still enough "classic" AOs missing to fill at least two big and two small expansions. Not only Nyarlathotep is still missing but Tsathoggua, Rhan Tegoth (so far only as epic monster in the game) and my personal favorite Ghatanothoa (again so far only an epic monster token in a rumor). Other, more exotic and less known AOs include Quachil Uttaus, Bokrug and Chaugar Faugn which are all in Arkham Horror. Concerning the fact that EH is far more successful than AH, I expect at least as much as they released for the predecessor and AH had 4 big and 4 small ones so there should follow at least one more for EH because one large is still missing. Of course I hope for even more expansions. Personally I hope for a New England Expansion (with Nyarlathotep and Tsathoggua) and a Pacific one with Australia and Polynesia (with Ghatanothoa and the Great Race of Yith). Of course the New England Expansion also makes sense with Ghatanothoa as he is a part of the tale "Out of the Eons" which takes also place in New England as in Polynesia. But I WANT GHATANOTHOA AS AN AO! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites


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A French perspective on the Appalachian Experience
Julie Jean is a French citizen who came to Appalachian for a year-long exchange program, and ended up staying to complete her undergraduate degree.
"One reason I chose to come back is that everyone here is so willing to help international students," the management major says. "My professors are always going out of their way to help me when I need assistance with anything." She also appreciates the many other aspects of her Appalachian Experience, including "all the different activities offered on campus, and all of the resources, like the Writing Center and tutoring services."
While here, Julie has worked in the University Library in Special Collections, where she enjoys the spectacular view from the fourth floor, as well as the additional learning experiences she is gaining outside the classroom. "My supervisor is very knowledgeable, and tells me a lot about Appalachian history," says Julie. "I really enjoy that my job allows me to learn about the university, and the history and culture of this region."


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Helping your property stand out from the crowd...
Located in the vibrant St Johns Street in the heart of town, we specialise in the sale of property in Bury St Edmunds and the surrounding villages.
With a team of passionate property professionals and over 45 years of experience, we aim to create and deliver a very different style of property consultancy.
We provide an individual service tailored specifically to your requirements and your move, advice or assistance.


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This Labor Day trivia quiz has 12 multiple-choice questions. Answers to the Labor Day trivia questions can be found at the end of the quiz. Enjoy and remember to show your appreciation for people who work.
1. What is the purpose of Labor Day in the U.S.?
a) To celebrate labor unions
b) To honor all workers
c) To raise awareness for the labor movement
d) All of the above
2. The American Labor Day marks the unofficial end of which natural season?
a) Spring b) Summer c) Autumn d) Winter
3. How is Labor Day usually celebrated in America?
a) Rest b) Last-min vacation c) Back-to-school shopping d) All of these
TriviaQuiz >


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Christmas Gifts – Inspired by nature
Weleda's 2019 Christmas gift collection features beautiful drawings by British designer Lisa Jane Dhar, of Studio Noodles, and includes illustrations of a range of plants used in Weleda's botanical formulations being visited by British butterflies.
The Positive Luxury Butterfly Mark
You will also see featured on Weleda's butterfly gift collection the Positive Luxury logo. Positive Luxury awards the Butterfly Mark to brands only when they meet the highest standards of verified innovation, social and environmental performance. The Butterfly Mark equips people to make more informed purchasing decisions offering transparency at the point of purchase. A brand with the Butterfly Mark is a Brant to Trust.
Naturally gifted.
Lavender Relaxing Bath Milk Gift 200ml£14.95
Rosemary Bath Milk Gift 200ml£14.95
Almond Wash Bag Gift 2019£27.95
Top To Toe Nourishment£18.50
The Sporty One Cracker£6.95
Relax and Sleep Well Cracker£6.95
Skin Food Saviour Tin£14.95
Skin Food Essentials Duo Gift£9.90
Arnica Muscle Soak Gift 2019£14.95
Heaven For Hands Gift£14.95
Feet Treat Gift£14.95
Skin Food Hand Hero£15.95
Skin Food Travel Gift£14.95
Skin Food Essentials Trio Gift 2019£16.95
Winter Rescue Gift£17.95
Mens Grooming Wash Bag Gift 2019£18.95
Citrus Wash Bag 2019£18.95
My Natural Beauty Kit£34.95
Skin Food Collection£41.80
My Natural Make-up Kit£58.75


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Anne Taylor plays during a Saturday jam session.
Blues artist, Otis Taylor, in his home town of Boulder, is hosting the Trance Blues Jam Festival. Unlike traditional music festivals where the audience is generally expected to be a semi-passive participant, the Trance Blues Jam Festival (TBJF) encourages people to be active participants who join together in the creation of music. For more photos and a video, go to http://www.dailycamera.com.
Cliff Grassmick / November 24, 2012
Otis Taylor Trance Blues Jam FestivalOtisTaylorTranceBluesFestival138


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If you're looking for ways to add more fruits and veggies to your diet, here's 55 healthy smoothie recipes to get more fresh produce in your day!
Happy New Year, friends! It's officially 2017 and an entirely new year is ahead of us. What will you do this year?
I'm not a resolution maker, I prefer to set small and relevant goals throughout the year. But, I do have a couple things I want to work on this year: decorating and organizing my house better, and eating more fruits and veggies.
My diet really isn't too bad, but there is always room for improvement! Upping my fruit and veggie intake is one of those things that I need to focus on a bit more.
If you want to boost your fresh produce intake this year, here is a roundup of 55 healthy smoothie recipes that are fruit and veggie based with no added sugars!
These smoothies are all gluten free, dairy free, and there are plenty of nut-free and vegan options in this roundup as well. If you are working on cutting way back on sugar, replace any non-dairy milk in these smoothies with unsweetened non-dairy milk or water, and use Stevia drops if you want a bit more sweetness.
Smoothie Recipes from The Fit Cookie
Vegan, paleo; Free of: grains, dairy, soy, peanuts
Dairy free, vegan; Free of: peanuts, soy, eggs, cane sugar
Paleo, vegan; Free of: dairy, eggs, soy, tree nuts, peanuts
Gluten Free, Paleo, Vegan; Free of: eggs, nuts, dairy, soy, corn, cane sugar
Smoothie recipes from other great bloggers
Superfood Smoothie for Glowing Skin – Veggie Inspired
Tricolor Smoothies with Spinach – Coffee and Brunch
Pomegranate Smoothie – Real Food Deals
Antioxidant Packed Dragonfruit Pitaya Bowls – A Side of Sweet
Prickly Pear Lemonade – Little Sunny Kitchen
Tropical Pineapple Carrot Smoothie – Peas and Crayons
Triple Colored Pure Fruit Smoothie – Bark Time
Cold-Busting Kiwi Spinach Lime Smoothie – My Gorgeous Recipes
Cranberry Mango Layered Smoothie – Peas and Crayons
Berry Cherry Pineapple Smoothie – This Gal Cooks
Turmeric Smoothie Recipe – Yummy Mummy Kitchen
Coconut Water Smoothie with Berries and Spinach – Veggie Inspired
Avocado Banana Smoothie – Trial and Eater
Daily Orange Carrot Smoothie – Savory Tooth
Daily Green Smoothie: Kale, Mango, Pineapple Smoothie – Savory Tooth
Cherry Spinach Smoothie – Cooktoria
The Virtuous Mary Smoothie – Umami Girl
Avocado and Mint Green Smoothie – Quite Good Food
Carrot Orange Smoothie – Raia's Recipes
Dandelion Detox Green Smoothie – Tasting Page
Orange Carrot Ginger Smoothie – Tasting Page
Sunshine Smoothie – All Roads Lead to the Kitchen
Avocado Kale Smoothie – The Little Epicurean
Heart Beet Smoothie – The Little Epicurean
Pomegranate Cranberry Smoothie – Easy Cooking with Molly
Green Smoothie (with Maple Water) – My Kitchen Love
Coconut Mango Cucumber Smoothie – Create Mindfully
Cleansing Green Smoothie – Delicious Meets Healthy
Orange Vanilla Spinach Smoothie – The Organic Dietitian
Cranberry Pomegranate Detox Smoothie – Rhubarbarians
Pineapple Peach Mint Smoothie – Platings and Pairings
Mango Matcha Green Smoothie – My Life Cookbook
Super Healthy Avocado Kale Smoothie – This Girl's Recipes
Pineapple Mango Smoothie Bowl – If You Give A Blonde a Kitchen
Wildly Striped Wild Blueberry Smoothie – Caroline's Cooking
Smoothie Bowls Three Ways – Lauren Caris Cooks
Mixed Berry Smoothie Bowl – Supergolden Bakes
Ginger Pineapple Papaya Smoothie – Light Orange Bean
Cranberry Clementine Smoothie – Blossom to Stem
Pineapple Mint Smoothie – Living Sweet Moments
Cucumber and Ginger Smoothie – Living Sweet Moments
Spinach Berry Smoothie – Framed Recipes
Blueberry Coconut Smoothie Bowl – Real and Vibrant
Green Tea Kale Smoothie – Swirls of Flavor
Acai Bowl Recipe – Yummy Mummy Kitchen
Orange Coconut Blueberry Green Smoothie – Vegetarian Gastronomy
Super Easy Super Berry Smoothie – It's Cheat Day Every Day
Tropical Fruit Smoothie – That Girl Cooks Healthy
Spinach Loquat Smoothie – Little Sunny Kitchen
Sarah Jane Parker is the founder, recipe creator, and photographer behind The Fit Cookie. She's a food allergy mom and healthy living blogger based in Wyoming. Sarah is also an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer, ACE Certified Health Coach, Revolution Running certified running coach, and an ACE Certified Fitness Nutrition Specialist


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Well, I guess virus is attacking my computer. It becomes super slow that it will take a half minute before it can open any programs. Closing it would take a little longer. This is sign of virus infection, no doubt about it.
While browsing the net, there are some web sites restricted by the virus, especially Google search. All other sites are fine except off course of slow browsing that can be attributed to the malware on my computer. Additionally, Avast frequently issue an alert about the following malware:
Process: C:\Windows\system32\svchost.exe
Infection: URL:Mal
Process: C:\Windows\system32\svchost.exe
Infection: URL:Mal
Process: C:\Windows\system32\svchost.exe
Infection: URL:Ma
Did try system restore and bring back Windows months before the infection, but it did not help either. I presume malware keeps on initiating when I am using the Internet. It is also surprising that only Avast can detect these threats. Online virus scanner shows no signs of infection. I am at my wits end. Don't know what to do now.
Any suggestion in removing espeak911.com and colexity777.com from this machine will be gladly accepted. Thanks and keep safe people.
1 Comment
My son had this infection on his laptop running Vista and IE9. First, if possible, find and remove the software that caused the problem in the first place. The culprit is the program you installed before the problem started. It was infected with a ROOTKIT. Next, download and run the Kaspersky TDSSKiller.exe file from http://usa.kaspersky.com/downloads/TDSSKiller. Its FREE and it works perfectly.


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Film about kids and gay tolerance sets off controversy
April 5, 1999
From Correspondent Don Knapp
SAN FRANCISCO (CNN) -- A movie about schoolchildren talking about homosexuality is set to air on public broadcasting stations this summer, but not if some conservative groups get their way.
The film, "It's Elementary" by Academy Award-winning documentary filmmaker Debra Chasnoff, suggests ways teachers can talk to students about homosexuality.
The Chicago public school system already has said it will use the film for teacher training.
"The most common way children harass each other and put each other down is by using anti-gay epithets," said Chasnoff. "And unfortunately, most of the staff at those schools don't do anything."
But some conservative groups have launched a campaign to keep the movie off public television. Two movies, including one produced by Coral Ridge Ministries, ask people to put pressure on their public television stations so they won't broadcast Chasnoff's film.
"You're looking at a textbook case for propaganda: manipulation, indoctrination, use of authority figures, peer pressure," said Janet Folger of Coral Ridge Ministries. "The desired goal of the video is to say that homosexuality is good and those that disagree are bad."
San Francisco public television station KQED said it has yet to hear from other stations on whether they want to air the program.
"This is really at the heart of our mission -- it's to celebrate diversity, to really underscore the importance of human dignity and human rights," Mary Bitterman, president and CEO of KQED Television, said.
Chasnoff won an Academy Award for her documentary on another controversial subject: nuclear weapons.
AllPolitics - Clinton Faces Criticism From Gays, Republicans During California Trip
Coral Ridge Ministries Home Page
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Dr. Victor Ferrari – Medical Director of Cool Renewal Spa
Dr. Victor Ferrari serves as the Medical Director of Cool Renewal Spa in Charlotte, NC. Dr. Ferrari has been a recognized leader in the field of cosmetic plastic surgery for over 20 years. He trained at the top residency programs in the country under some of the world's experts. His passion for creating beautiful, natural-looking results has resulted in his multiple prestigious awards. These awards include "Top Doctor" and "Top Plastic Surgeon" status by several prominent consumer guidance groups such as the ""Guide to America's Top Plastic Surgeons", "America's Guide to Cosmetic Doctor's and Dentists", Consumer's Research Council or America", "The Castle Connelly Group", "The National Registry of Who's Who", "Marquis Guide to Who's Who in Medicine and Healthcare", and "Strathmore's Who's Who". In addition, he has received the coveted "Physician Recognition Award" from the American Medical Association five times in the past 20 years. He has also spoken many times in national and international medical meetings to help instruct other physicians on the latest techniques. He has also appeared numerous times on TV or radio shows to discuss plastic surgery issues since the media recognizes him as an expert in the field. After growing up in Charlotte, he graduated with honors from Davidson College and then the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill School of Medicine. He then did a full 5 year general surgery residency at the University of Kansas followed by 3 years of plastic surgery training at the University of Miami under the world-renowned plastic surgeon; Dr. Ralph Millard, Jr. He was selected to the esteemed position of "Chief Resident" in both specialties. In addition, he also obtained board-certification in both specialties. Less than 5% of all plastic surgeons can match his credentials and even fewer can match his stunning results. In the year 2000, Dr. Ferrari founded Premier Plastic Surgery Center where he performs most of his procedures in his nationally accredited state-of-the art surgical operating rooms. He accepted the position of medical director of Cool Renewal Spa in 2014 because he saw it as a viable option for those patients who wanted to lose excess fat, but weren't interested in surgery. He is available to discuss any concerns clients may have regarding CoolSculpting or any other body sculpting procedures.
Holly Phifer, ME – Medical Aesthetician
Holly Phifer serves as a Senior CoolSculpting Technician in our South Charlotte location. Holly joined Cool Renewal Spa from a large dermatology practice here in Charlotte. Her clinical experience is extremely varied. She has performed CoolSculpting here at Cool Renewal Spa since 2014 and has performed thousands of treatments. Holly is a Medical Aesthetician, has an Associate of Arts degree and attended the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She also has earned her completion degree from CoolSculpting University in Pleasanton, CA. Holly is deeply committed to her patients and their quality CoolSculpting results.
Stephanie Klimenko, LPN, M-IV
Stephanie Klimenko serves as our Location Manager of the South Charlotte CoolSculpting Center. Stephanie is an experienced Nurse and CoolSculpting Technician. She has performed several thousand CoolSculpting treatments and has been recognized as one of the most experienced CoolSculpters in the country. She received her CoolSculpting degree from CoolSculpting University in Pleasanton, CA. and recently had the opportunity to go to the very first CoolSculpting Masters University program. This new education is only available to the best of the best and Stephanie is ready to take our CoolSculpting results to new heights. She has her nursing degree from Fortis College in Ohio and her undergraduate degree from the University of Akron. She has her nursing certification in both North Carolina and Ohio. As our South Charlotte Manager, Stephanie is focused on overall patient care and amazing CoolSculpting results.
Kristin Pisani, LPN, M-IV
Kristin Pisani serves as our Location Manager at Cool Renewal Spa Langtree in Mooresville, NC. In addition to her role as Manager, Kristen is an experienced nurse and CoolSculpting Technician. She has a number of nursing certifications and has her certification in Advanced CoolSculpting from CoolSculpting University in Reston, Virginia. She joined our team after a long and distinguished career as a skilled post-surgical/rehab nurse. She even worked as a nurse for the Detention Facility in Santa Ana, CA. As our Lake Norman Center Manager, she is dedicated to making sure every patient of Cool Renewal Spa is treated with great service, amazing patient care and outrageous CoolSculpting results.
Chelsey LaDew, ME – Medical Aesthetician
Chelsey serves as a CoolSculpting Technician in our Lake Norman CoolSculpting Center. Chelsey is a Medical Aesthetician and is licensed in both NC and MD. She has been working in the medical spa and plastic surgery field for the past 5 years. She is a recent graduate of CoolSculpting University in Reston, VA. She is originally from Maryland and is new to the Charlotte area. She is excited to treat our patients and make a new home here in charlotte.
Brad Jensen, Director of Operations
Brad Jensen serves as our Director of Operations and business manager. Brad has spent his entire career in consulting and the financial services industries. Brad has BA and an MBA in finance/operations. Brad and his family moved to Charlotte in 2001. For the past 20 years, Brad has been completely focused on operational excellence with the needs of the client/patient at the center of every business process. Brad is committed to make sure Cool Renewal Spa operates with the same focus and intensity, with an utmost dedication of taking care of the patient.


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|Independence aid jobs 'at risk' claim
There are 550 permanent and 50 contract staff working in East Kilbride for the DFID, over all the department has a budget of around £7 billion and a total workforce of 2700.
Casting about on the internet for info on how those clever Norwegians do things, they have The Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (or NORAD) with a budget of some £27 billion Kroner (approx £2.6 billion.) Its a subsidiary of Norway's Ministry of Foreign Affairs which employs in total 2400 people across 110 foreign missions the aforementioned NORAD plus two other subsidiaries, FK Norway (a peace corps set up) and Norfund (a private equity company funded by the Norwegian state.)
NORAD has approximately 230 employees, a good deal less than the 600 working in East Kilbride, but it doesn't manage all of Norway's international aid program - much of which is integrated into other areas of Norway Ministry of Foreign Affairs. For comparison, the UK's Foreign & Commonwealth Office employs around 13,000 people and has a budget of £1.5 billion, its Department for International Development employs 2700 and has a budget of (approx) £7 billion. Norway manages to do both with a staff of 2400 and a budget of £3.4 billion (approx.)*
I know we like to talk about Norway and use it as an example to which we could aspire, when you compare it to how the UK government conducts its foreign affairs and international development, its actually a wee bit embarrassing.
Where the UK can be quite cynical about where it sends aid and the reasons for doing so, Norway is a lot more altruistic. I'm not saying they don't gain because they do, but so does the country to which the aid is being sent, its mutual. As an example here are two links both to the Huffington Post website: The first dated 02/01/2012 then the second dated 11/05/2012. Call me Cindy McCynical but it seems a bit odd that Britain would cancel aid worth around a quarter of a billion smacks to India months after they (India) snubbed a BAE-led consortium building Typhoons in favour of the French aircraft manufacturers Dassault building Rafales.
But I digress.
Its not so much about how much or on what you spend an international aid budget, its about whether Scotland would be able to. According to Justine Greening and no doubt many others with a vested interested in the retention of the union, it goes with out saying - Scotland probably couldn't.
Justine also suggested to Westminster's International Development Committee that disasters like Typhoon Haiyan were better dealt with by a United Kingdom - managing to employ a natural disaster to defend the status quo - which sort of figures when you think about it.
|"We heard you were hit by a typhoon."
|"Eh, would you like to buy some Typhoons?"
She warned the UK aid budget would be slashed by £900 million if Scotland left, but neglected to point out that if an SNP-led independent Scottish government was in power after 2016, Humza Yousaf (SNP External Affairs Minister) on its behalf pledged to exceed the 0.7% of GDP most European countries give by pledging 1% of Scotland's GDP for international aid. All of which means Scotland's aid budget would be around £1.5 billion - replacing the £900 million Justine said would be 'slashed' from the rUK's aid budget.
I know some unionists have problems identifying higher figures from lower ones but, £1.5 billion is definitely more than £900 million. Bearing that in mind, Justine Greening is - as you would probably imagine anyway - talking mince.
Finally, if you don't agree with Scotland having such a generous aid budget then don't vote for the SNP, wait and see what the other parties are offering. Do remember though, if you are contemplating a 'no' vote in September next year, nothing will change one way or the other because Scottish votes in Westminster elections rarely count.
These days it doesn't really matter what Westminster party you vote for, in terms of policy, there's barely a gnat's chuff-width between them. If you want your vote to count, it'll only happen with a fully autonomous Scottish Parliament.
As you well know.
* If - like me - you were wondering how Norway managed to do more with a lot less and still be ahead of the UK in giving international aid. In cash terms the UK does spend more, but only because our economy is five times bigger than Norway's. Aid is worked out as a percentage of GDP, not as a mean sum of money. Ergo, Norway spends a higher percentage of its GDP (nominal)** (GDP $485,416 25th largest) than does the UK (GDP $2,429,184 7th largest.)
** Not to be confused with GDP per capita (meaning cash per person) where Norway enjoys being in 4th position and the UK languishes down in the doldrums in 21st place - (World Bank figures.) Scotland's place? According to OECD figures - 6th largest (rUK 16th.)


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Qompendium is an evolving and ever-changing platform for philosophy, art, culture and science, represented by a series of print publications: magazines, books and monographs. Furthermore, it is enriched by a gallery concept, a work shop and a fast-moving online portal.
LINIE WEST is a joint initiation of Künstlerhaus Stuttgart, Galerie Parrotta, Galerie Klaus Gerrit Friese and Galerie Reinhard Hauff aiming to create dynamic audience circulation and parallel discussions in Stuttgart West. The third LINIE WEST walk invites you to join us for our openings, an artist talk and the party on Friday, 11th of February 2011. Künstlerhaus Stuttgart presents the first show curated by the new artistic director Adnan Yildiz. "ECHT? based on a true story" unites works influenced by the perception of fictionalised reality, and investigates how self-reflexivity operates in artistic production. Galerie Parotta Contemporary Art presents a solo exhibition from Simone Westerwinter as well as a group show composed of works from Helga Fanderl, Susanne Klary, Verena Klary, Susanne Kriemann, Patricia London Ante Paris, Nadine Maisenbacher, Susa Reinhardt, Susanne Starke by Westerwinter's invitation. Both exhibitions play with the idea of imagineary "roadside picnic" bringing together diverse appraoches from Stuttgart, Paris, Karlsruhe, Dresden, Berlin and Munich. Galerie Reinhard Hauff presents London artist Mark Pearson with his second solo show at the gallery; "I am The Fly". As Pearson commutes through the back streets of East London, he is constantly alerted to the visual signs of its diverse cultures and communities. Galerie Klaus Gerrit Friese presents a solo presentation of works from Sandra Boeschenstein with the title "Denken mit Schubumkehr". Zürich based artist generates an absurd question and answer game in dialogues of picture and text.
Thursday, 10.02.2011
16:00 (Cet)


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Wednesday, 26 October 2011
One for 2012? (Probably Not For Me...) 'Tribulations' - Ken Shufeldt
The world has ended…. The war is only beginning.
An asteroid storm has obliterated the Earth. Billy and Linda West have built enough space-going arks to save a small number of people who now roam the void in search of a new home.
Desperate to find a safe haven, Billy makes a dangerous attempt to exceed the speed of light. When his plans go terribly wrong, the Wests' severely-damaged ship is separated from the fleet and left drifting near a mysterious planet.
This world's conditions are hospitable—but its inhabitants are not. Suddenly the Wests and their fellow survivors are caught in the middle of an ancient war between two brutal nations. Faced with horrific dangers, they are forced to choose a side just to survive.
So, a bland cover and a blurb that reminds me a little too much of 'Lost in Space'. I was never really that bothered by 'Lost in Space' so I won't be reading 'Tribulations' (especially after a search for Ken Shufeldt on Amazon showed what most people thought of his last book...)
'Tribulations' might well be your thing though so it gets a mention here. Do you think you'll be picking it up?
5 comments:
- Catwomanthegeek said...
Yikes! It does seem rather bland. Yet for some reason I would like to read it. do I wanna read it enough to go out and buy it? Probably not. But I think I would pick it up from a library book shelf. I look forward to the reviews!
- 27 October 2011 at 21:04
Having bought the book, I can say that the cover is probably the best part of it. To be fair, I only made it 10 pages in before throwing the book down in complete disgust. Even with that brief experience, the terms juvenile, and nonsensical come to mind.
- 15 January 2012 at 23:16
Poorly written, ridiculous plot, I thought maybe this was written by a juvenile. The first few pages found me wanting to throw the book away.
- 23 February 2012 at 22:56
Babies accidentily getting injected by thousands of years old mummy blood? The closest galaxy to Earth is only 4 lightyears away?!? But travelling at 1/3 the speed of light it will take centuries to get there?!?!?! And thats when I threw the book away. In my whole like there have been only 3 books I couldnt finish. now the total is 4. this books only redeeming quality is that it gives aspiring writers like me hope, if trash like this can get published, anything i write should get published.
- 16 April 2012 at 08:14
This is an incredibly BAD book...well, if the author had taken some of the implied sex out of the "mind meld" conversations, it could have been published as a children's book and be allowed in the church of your choice library.........I guess you could call this a religious fantasy...God leading the survivors of the Attack of the Meteors to the Promised Land...
I made it to Chapter 3 and decided that I couldn't punish my sensibilities any longer.....I hate to be so dogmatic, but, the author should not have any delusions about the theme or his skill-set....and the publisher should have not allowed this book to be printed for mainstream science-fiction adult audiences.
Good thing I bought it used, or I would really be ticked...as it is, I wasted 4 bucks....
- 4 November 2012 at 21:49


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There is almost no subject that Terry Pratchett hasn't explained better, funnier and more times than just about anyone else on the planet. Reading his Discworld novels is reading a master at work, and it seems like he gets more relevant the more time passes. Here are 10 of his most relevant passages to keep in mind throughout the next four years.
Image: Night Watch cover art by Paul Kidby
1) Commander Vimes didn't like the phrase "The innocent have nothing to fear," believing the innocent had everything to fear, mostly from the guilty but in the longer term even more from those who say things like "The innocent have nothing to fear." - Snuff
Pratchett deconstructed this argument several times. Obviously in Snuff, but he also brought it up in Men at Arms ("The axiom 'Honest men have nothing to fear from the police' is currently under review by the Axioms Appeal Board.") and in Unseen Academicals ("It was all very well for the Watch to say 'the innocent have nothing to fear', but what was that all about? Who cared about the innocent and their problems when the Watch was on its way?"). People always trot this out when people protest expanding police powers, especially in the realm of surveillance. Vimes' (and Pratchett's) point is that people who say you have nothing to fear will eventually give you a reason to be afraid.
2) She was already learning that if you ignore the rules people will, half the time, quietly rewrite them so that they don't apply to you. - Equal Rites
Put this in giant letters on a poster and slap it up on your wall. It is vitally important to remember that this happens and to watch for it. Pratchett meant it to be a good thing for a character whose existence broke a number of spoken and unspoken rules, but the other side of it is an actual problem.
3) And, while it was regarded as pretty good evidence of criminality to be living in a slum, for some reason owning a whole street of them merely got you invited to the very best social occasions. - Feet of Clay
Pratchett explores this theme a lot, too — that for some reason large crimes not only go unpunished, they somehow lead to fame and fortune. He has another one about how having slavers and brigands for ancestors makes you elite, but anyone doing it now is a criminal.
4) Shoot the dictator and prevent the war? But the dictator is merely the tip of the whole festering boil of social pus from which dictators emerge; shoot one, and there'll be another one along in a minute. Shoot him too? Why not shoot everyone and invade Poland? In fifty years', thirty years', ten years' time the world will be very nearly back on its old course. History always has a great weight of inertia. - Lords and Ladies
For anyone who has ever advocated getting rid of the one person they think is the problem: It's systemic. It's historical. And there is so much more than getting rid of one or two or three people to blame.
5) Fear is a strange soil. Mainly it grows obedience like corn, which grows in rows and makes weeding easy. But sometimes it grows the potatoes of defiance, which flourish underground. - Small Gods
Here's a slightly uplifting one that has the benefit of a) being true and b) exhibiting, again, just how good Pratchett was with words.
Image: Cover art for The Truth by Josh Kirby
6) There are, it has been said, two types of people in the world. There are those who, when presented with a glass that is exactly half full, say: this glass is half full. And then there are those who say: this glass is half empty.
The world belongs, however, to those who can look at the glass and say: What's up with this glass? Excuse me? Excuse me? This is my glass? I don't think so. My glass was full! And it was a bigger glass!
And at the other end of the bar the world is full of the other type of person, who has a broken glass, or a glass that has been carefully knocked over (usually by one of the people calling for a larger glass), or who had no glass at all, because they were at the back of the crowd and had failed to catch the barman's eye. - The Truth
The world belongs to the entitled, who somehow not only avoid blame, but avoid being included in the proverbs.
7) "The secret is not to dream," she whispered. "The secret is to wake up. Waking up is harder. I have woken up and I am real. I know where I come from and I know where I'm going. You cannot fool me anymore. Or touch me. Or anything that is mine." - Tiffany Aching, The Wee Free Men
Pratchett followed this by saying that you can't be "awake" all the time, that we dream because seeing everything as it really is would break us. And that explains why people complain when their "escapism" touches on truths.
Image: Vetinari, Paul Kidby
8) I believe in freedom, Mr. Lipwig. Not many people do, although they will, of course, protest otherwise. And no practical definition of freedom would be complete without the freedom to take the consequences. Indeed, it is the freedom upon which all the others are based. - Vetinari, Going Postal
Every single time someone complains about freedom of speech when people criticise them for what they have said, remind them of this.
9) It was so much easier to blame it on Them. It was bleakly depressing to think that They were Us. If it was Them, then nothing was anyone's fault. If it was Us, what did that make Me? After all, I'm one of Us. I must be. I've certainly never thought of myself as one of Them. No one ever thinks of themselves as one of Them. We're always one of Us. It's Them that do the bad things. - Jingo
A lot of Pratchett's books, especially the later Discworld ones, explored xenophobia and racism. Jingo, about a brewing conflict with "foreigners", feels more relevant now than ever. Pratchett always does more than just show us how, he always makes sure to get into people's heads and explain.
10) "All right," said Susan. "I'm not stupid. You're saying humans need... fantasies to make life bearable."
"Tooth fairies? Hogfathers? Little — "
"So we can believe the big ones?"
"They're not the same at all!"
YOU THINK SO? THEN TAKE THE UNIVERSE AND GRIND IT DOWN TO THE FINEST POWDER AND SIEVE IT THROUGH THE FINEST SIEVE AND THEN SHOW ME ONE ATOM OF JUSTICE, ONE MOLECULE OF MERCY. AND YET — Death waved a hand. AND YET YOU ACT AS IF THERE IS SOME IDEAL ORDER IN THE WORLD, AS IF THERE IS SOME...SOME RIGHTNESS IN THE UNIVERSE BY WHICH IT MAY BE JUDGED.
"Yes, but people have got to believe that, or what's the point — "
MY POINT EXACTLY. - Susan and Death, The Hogfather
There is no exchange in all of Discworld that sticks with me more than this one. Pratchett was an atheist, and yet this is the most eloquent defence of faith in the unquantifiable I have ever come across. What is the point of anything if there aren't greater principles to believe in and fight for? I figured I'd end this with the most inspiring quote I could think of.


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At Palwong elementary in northern Uganda, kids begin the school day dragging desks into tin-roofed, mud-brick classrooms. But no one is complaining - at least they are safe from a vicious and still-simmering civil war that forced their families into camps.
Eight thousand miles away, Grade 6 students in Bloomington, Ind., buckle down for another day, and although they don't know it, what they learn in class matters to the kids in Palwong, CBS News correspondent Allen Pizzey reports.
The link is FreeRice.com, a vocabulary game in which every correct answer means 20 grains of rice is donated to the World Food Programme.
"If I get the answer wrong, it tells me what it means. Now my vocabulary is getting bigger," said one Bloomington sixth grader.
A click of the mouse in Indiana ... a click of a stick in Palwong.
It's all about words, and every handful of rice that goes into the pot for lunch at Palwong came from FreeRice. So far, the game has generated 28 billion grains of rice.
That's enough to feed more than a million people for one day.
According to the World Food Programme, school meals boost enrollment and help keep children in class. But school feeding programs, including the one in Palwong, are under threat.
Read more on Couric & Co. blog.
The school used to offer breakfast too, but rising food prices and a shortfall in aid money forced them to cut to lunch only…and for many of these kids, school is the only decent meal they get.
"If we do not have lunch, you go there at home you'll not find food at home, then you come here, and you start sleeping," said one Ugandan student.
There are no computers at the Uganda school. There isn't even electricity. And books are a luxury. But like kids everywhere, the minds are eager.
"I would like to be a teacher," one student said.
"I want to be a nurse," said another.
And another: "I like to study history, I like it best."
The kids who learn words on FreeRice can no more imagine where the rice goes than those who receive it can understand where it comes from.


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- Top Dreams
- Storm
- Diamond
- Water
- Doctor
- Caterpillar
- Lava
- Werewolf
- Beet
- Fairy
- Fountain
- Champagne
- Eggs
- Fruit jelly
- River
- Dog
- Ostrich
- Seal
- Duck
- Pig
- Game
|More about Dreams
|13 Tips for a better sleep
|Do you have insomnia?
|Sleep apnea is another dangerous disorder
|Sleep deprivation problem
|Sleep as a physiological process
|Sleeping positions of one person. Their meanings.
Pancake - Meaning of Dream
Pancake, symbolizing the sun, is a good sign for a dreamer. If you see pancakes on the table, you will have joyful news, fun, and different successes. If you are engaged in the cooking of pancakes, it predicts carnal pleasures. Pancakes, richly flavored with sour cream, predicting a return of the old, long-forgotten and forgiven monetary debt. This dream also may portend other receipts.
If during a meal you run out of pancakes, in reality you will succeed in business.
Dream book of Miller interprets a dream as if you enjoy the taste of pancakes, as a significant achievement in any activity. Cooking pancakes symbolizes your frugality, consistent management of affairs.
According to Freud's dream book if you eat pancakes, it indicates the abundance of sexual fantasies and experience of a dreamer.
According to the dream interpreter, to eat pancakes means to manage all plans and to be very lucky. But if it has butter or cottage cheese – you will have losses and disappointments.
If you eat pancakes with jam or cream you will be fooled by a close person, but then you will recover the stress very fast.
If pancakes have meat – very soon you will have losses. If it has caviar, it indicates possible deprivation of health.
To cook pancakes means that you will have carnal pleasures. To overcook – leads to happiness and luck.
Appetizing pancakes mean that you will be happy to have an interesting romantic date.
If you see somebody else eating pancakes, it means that your undertaking will have a great success.
If pancakes are not cooked enough, you should work hard in order to overcome difficulties.
A dream, where pancakes are spoiled, is a prognostic of irritation and annoyance.
Pancake carnival predicts some troubles, which require your craftiness while finding the method of solution.
If somebody gives you pancakes, it means that you can trust and rely on people who surround you.
If you drop pancakes, beware of wasting your money.
If you choke with a pancake in a dream, it signals of your unworthy acts from which somebody has suffered.
To sell pancakes means to cause problems, to buy means to meet new friends.
To see a pile of pancakes means to receive a letter.


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SpunkyHomeSchool: Homeschoolers and Health Care
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I've read a few posts on other blogs just recently about parental guilt. Guilt over food, controlling your children in public or returning to work to be specific, although there are others I'm sure. So, I'm writing about my own parental guilt and how I have tried to get over it.
As far as the children are concerned I try not to beat myself up over minor things. The major things are all covered of course. They are fed, clean and loved, but I don't spend hours a day providing them with stimulating activities or making sure their diet covers all the major food groups, as long as their needs are met and everyone is happy then thats good enough for me. I do feel that there are far too many areas a parent can become guilty over these days and I wonder whether my particular generation puts too much pressure on ourselves to provide everything and to be perfect. My parents never had to, and at risk of yet again sounding like my mother (see what I did there?), it was never like this when I was a child.
Maybe it's because I've got a large family, and I've been through the whole mum guilt thing a few times but I have almost become immune to it. At least I thought that was how i was feeling. Then last year, ds1 went to high school and the whole mum guilt thing started again, perhaps being as thorough as I needed to be wasn't going to cut it after all.
I think the guilt over providing the right things for your children reaches a peak when they are secondary school age or thereabouts. If I had a pound for every time one of my eldest two came home moaning about how their friends have the latest game/phone/holiday abroad then I'd be a rich woman. The problem with teens and pre teens, I'm learning, is that they can make you feel totally rubbish for not buying the latest 18 certified video game for them, because x y and z at school have it and they will be so unpopular if they can't have it too. Things were so much easier when they were small and just seemed to accept the differences between themselves and others without wanting to be part of the latest trend. But these days they do, and according to ds1 and his friends I am "tight" and a terrible parent for not allowing him to hide away in his room with access to all kinds of stuff. Other parents let their children do it, apparently. *sigh*
|It says 18, not 13!
It's not about the cost, our kids don't go short and have access to shared consoles, tablets and other stuff, it's about control, guilt over control. While all my kids are under 18 isn't that what I'm supposed to do though, control what they do and make sure it's appropriate? I don't think I'm completely strict over this and other things. I've let ds1 play a 16 rated game (only if his younger siblings are not in the room) and dd1 has a basic smartphone, its a compromise I thought we were all happy with. We still resrict Internet access and the younger children get timed access too. I'm as thorough as I need to be, remember? I guess I'm just upset that my older children can't see things my way and understand that I'm doing it for their own good.
I know I'm right and so I'm trying to step back from mum guilt for now at least. The lightbulb is back on in my head again and its made me realise that there is no such thing as a perfect parent, even if my children are hell bent on following their friends it doesnt mean that I have to follow what other parents do, or feel guilty when I don't. We're all just doing our best after all, surely there should be no shame in realising this? So be as thorough as you need to be, that's my motto and I'm sticking to it.


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Tour description
World-famous Geneva is the starting point for your tour. The fountain in Lake Geneva salutes you and bids farewell as you leave Switzerland and embark on a cycling tour which could not be more varied.
Constantly accompanied by the river Rhône, you either cycle directly along the riverbank or sometimes the route takes you away for a while and leads you through charming villages, sunflower fields and vineyards. Once the mighty Mont Blanc disappears into the horizon, you dive deeper into the French ambience and you will be drawn into their 'savoir-vivre'. A glass of wine, freshly baked baguette and time to enjoy it all – this is the genuine French way of living.