text:
I can't think of a better way to kick off this lovely St. Patrick's Day than with guest author Margot Johnson. Today, she's sharing details about her latest sweet romance Love Leads the Way. Margot Johnson on Love Leads the Way For many years, I worked in a busy corporate environment, and I left a leadership role in human resources and communications to focus on writing. Now instead of guiding employees, I create characters who have minds of their own! In LOVE LEADS THE WAY, Tessa coaches Mark in leadership, but they both need lessons in love! I hope you have fun with these clashing coworkers as they discover where love leads. The story is fiction but draws on some of my experiences at work and at home. I'd love to have lunch with Tessa and compare notes on office gossip, single parenting, family quirks, and cute golden retrievers. One key difference is I didn't meet my handsome husband at work! Tessa and Mark both support a mother with dementia which brings some tough but also light moments. My late dad died of complications from Alzheimer's, so that part of the book is close to my heart. He was a journalist who always encouraged me to read and write. My characters love dogs, and my loyal, old golden retriever, Sophie, is the inspiration for the adorable dogs in my books. When not writing, I love to travel. One of my more unusual adventures was appearing on the TV game show Let's Make a Deal where I almost won a car! You can often find me reading a good book for my monthly book club while munching on a large bowl of popcorn. Don't miss this blurb: She coaches him in team leadership, but do they both need lessons in love? Single mom Tessa Shore runs a successful leadership program at work and supports a mother with dementia. She can handle any challenge in her jam-packed schedule as long as nothing spins out of control…especially her feelings. Engineer Mark Delaney is an expert on pipelines at the same company, but his interpersonal skills need a makeover. Advancing to an executive job requires enrollment in a leadership course he doesn't think he needs. When their professional and personal issues entangle, life at the office gets a lot more complicated. Romance is impossible…or is it? Enjoy an excerpt: Pacing around Crescent Park in moonlight trimmed with stars, Mark breathed fresh air and slowed his erratic heartbeats from the shock of Tessa's invitation. Apparently, the woman who directed the class with the precision of an air-traffic controller could flex…at least, a little. She wanted to spend extra time with him, and he couldn't refuse. "I didn't think we'd bump into other participants at this late hour." She hugged tighter her windbreaker against the cool breeze. "We won't mix business and pleasure. I'm strictly off duty, and so are you." "Okay, Tessa, whatever you say." Zipping higher his jacket, he strode and sniffed moisture riding the wind. Guilt tiptoed around his collar, and he couldn't escape the feeling this outing was a bad idea. He should avoid her, except in class, yet he accepted her invitation. But why did she break her own rule and contact him? "If I can't discuss work, can I ask you a personal question?" He admired her profile with pert nose tipped to the sky, breathing the fresh night air. "I guess so since I'm the woman who persuades everyone else to dish." She laughed and brushed a curl from her cheek. Streetlights alternated with a full moon to light the pathway. Their footsteps crunched on gravel, and their murmured voices broke the peaceful silence. "Ready." She tucked her hands in her jacket pockets. "Is Mr. Shore waiting at home?" He winced at his forward question. No sense beating around the bush. He shouldn't pine for someone else's wife. Buy Links: About Margot Johnson: Margot Johnson grew up in a family of writers and has always loved books and writing. She is the author of LOVE TAKES FLIGHT and her new release LOVE LEADS THE WAY. Before turning her focus to the fun writing life, Margot held leadership roles in human resources and communications. Her motto is "Dream big and work hard." When not writing, she loves to connect with family and friends, volunteer with SK Writers Guild, and walk at least 10,000 steps a day (except when it's minus 40!) She lives in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada with her amazing husband and adorable golden retriever. Social Media Links: Facebook - Margot Johnson Author Twitter - https://twitter.com/AuthorMargot
Margot Johnson
3/17/2021 08:00:23 am
Thank you for hosting me today, D. K.! I love connecting with readers and author authors. Comments are closed.


text:
Quick Summary
Healthcare has a lot of moving parts, and it can sometimes be easy to get lost in the shuffle of everything that goes… on with your health. The time is now to take back your healthcare resources to better manage your healthcare needs. Start by taking charge of your health care when it comes to your doctors, prescriptions, insurance, and other healthcare providers. Learn more about how you can be more than just a silent partner that blindly follows what is said by healthcare providers, but how you can open a better dialogue to get the best care possible now and in the future.
Quick Links
SECTION I: Introduction to Managing Your Healthcare Resources
SECTION II: Become a Partner with Your Doctor
SECTION III: Manage Your Prescriptions Better
SECTION IV: Tackling Your Insurance Head On
SECTION V: Managing Other Healthcare Providers
SECTION VI: Pulling it All Together
SECTION I: Introduction to Managing Your Healthcare Resources
Patients are no longer silent partners in their healthcare decisions, and the time is now to start managing your healthcare resources. You may be dealing with multiple doctors who prescribe multiple prescriptions, multiple hospitals, and other healthcare providers. This can be a pretty frustrating process as it may seem that everyone is not always on the same page, and that could spell big trouble. This is not even including the complicated world of insurance, and how frustrating the insurance company can be to talk to at times. Although this may all seem rather intimidating to take charge of since you don't have a medical degree, there are things that you can do to have a bigger role in what is going on with your body and care. You are your own medical advocate!
Chapter 1: You Can Take Charge Of Your Health Care By Managing the Different Aspects
Healthcare can be a very complex process, and because of the very technical nature of modern medicine, it can be a bit intimidating to deal with for anyone. In the past, people were more willing to allow their doctors to tell them about their healthcare needs, but today, there are ways that people can become better partners in this process. You can take charge of your health care to ensure that you start achieving a better outcome for your health and well-being. You may have a few appointments a month or every few months where you come into contact with your doctor or other professional, so that means you are the one that will be providing your health care in monitoring your situation and taking provided meds.
You may have chronic conditions, and worry that if you speak up that you will upset the apple cart, but not speaking up can be detrimental.
Children also need to be ready to understand their parents' healthcare situation in case of an emergency. There may be times when they have to step up and step in as an advocate for you, and this means that you need to keep them more informed on what is happening with your current care.
SECTION II: Become a Partner with Your Doctor
No longer do patients need to just listen to their doctors. Opening a dialogue is vital to managing your health care. Yes, some doctors are easier to speak with than others because of their personalities as some have that God complex, but voicing your concerns and opinions is vital to even these doctors.
Chapter 1: Evaluate Your Current Doctors to See if They Fit Your Current Needs
You are not stuck with your current doctors, even if it may feel that way sometimes. Evaluate your current doctors, and determine if they are the right doctor for you. Ask yourself if you feel comfortable speaking with your doctor, and if they treat you in the manner that allows you to be a partner in your health care. If you are not happy with the way that your doctor is currently caring for you, it may be time to change things up. Most insurance companies do require you to have a primary doctor on record that you use for general medicine, but you are allowed to change this doctor. You may need to check over your plan to see what other doctors take your insurance, but it will be worth it to be more comfortable taking charge.
Chapter 2: Are You and Your Doctors on the Same Page with your Care?
Think of your body like a complex machine – like a car that needs everything working correctly to get a smooth ride. When your car breaks down, you take it to a mechanic that usually can fix anything wrong with your engine or other car parts. It would be nice if health care worked the same way, but the human body is even more complex. This may mean that you have to visit more than one doctor because of how some doctors specialize in treating specific areas.
Going to multiple doctors may mean that you have multiple care plans with different medications and ways of attacking your health concerns. You need to be sure that you are on the same page with your doctors on what each medicine does, and what the right treatment is for you. Being on the same page will tell you what you need to do when you are under your own care. This is important, but it is vital that your doctors are aware of each other and how they are treating you. Some medicines that one doctor prescribes may have an interaction with another medication, or a treatment plan may not take into account another doctor's treatment plan. Make sure your doctors are aware of each other, and current treatments.
Chapter 3: You Should Investigate New Doctors If Necessary to Get the Care You Deserve
If you have decided that you are unhappy with your doctor because of your treatment or they are not working well with your other doctors to provide you the best care, it may be time to investigate new doctors. Talk with your insurance company to get a list of local doctors in the specialty that you are looking for a new doctor to have, and then look over this list. Learn about each doctor's bedside manner, education, and other patient's experience with the doctor. At first, glance, take the time to see what information is available online about the doctors on your list. There are websites dedicated to reviews on doctors that include information on them and other patient experiences with them. Of course, reviews should not be your final deciding factor as sometimes those happiest with a doctor are not thinking about leaving a review, and those that are unhappy are more than willing to vent to anyone willing to listen. You may need to schedule an appointment to speak briefly with the doctor to see for yourself what their bedside manner will be like since online searches can only go so far.
Chapter 4: Advice on How to Handle Your Doctor Appointments
Going to your doctor's appointments may seem like a blur. You arrive, wait, and get your short amount of time with the doctor before you are bustled out of the room for the next patient. It's easy to feel like a sheep being herded, but you can take charge of your visit. Ask questions as you speak to the doctor. If you tend to forget your questions, write them down to bring along. This can be a good experience for your children to attend to learn more about the current care being received, things to look for, and what treatments may be necessary in the future.
The Internet is an amazing tool that has brought the world together, and there are plenty of online self-diagnostic tools when you are feeling poorly. The key to remember is that they do not replace your doctor. Sometimes, these tools can be misleading about what your symptoms may mean, and you may be doing more harm to your health by blinding following this information. These tools can hold an important place when it comes to your doctor visit as you can use it as a conversation starter about your concerns.
Your doctors should be working together when prescribing your medications, and while you may not have control over having to take medications, you can manage them. Some tools available to you include creating a prescription chart, finding ways to cut costs, and using your doctor and pharmacist effectively.
SECTION III: Manage Your Prescriptions Better
Chapter 1: Create a Prescription Chart for Your Records in Case of an Emergency and to Find any Discrepancies
You may be on several prescriptions that need to be taken following set directions, and often, these directions may differ. This is a lot of important information to keep track of so creating a prescription chart can be a great idea. You can also include your doctor's information and any other important health information that may be necessary in the case of an emergency.
Not only will a prescription chart let you know when your prescriptions should be taken and how they are taken, but it is also a comprehensive list of what you are taking no matter which of your doctors prescribed the medicine to you. You can take this information with you to all of your appointments for your doctors to review what you are taking. Plus, this information is great for when there are any medical emergencies, and you are unable to remember exactly what you take, such as the name of the drug or the dosage. This information can speak for you when you cannot or can inform your loved ones that can relay the information to your healthcare providers.
There are several ways that you can keep an organized list of your medications in a prescription chart. You can create one online that you can print out. There are several different types of templates to choose from when creating your personalized chart. Some are even able in card form that will easily fit in your wallet or purse.
Chapter 2: Examine The Costs of Your Prescription Drugs
Prescription drug cost can be high, so you should examine the costs of the different medications that you take. It can be a good idea to get a documented list of how much your medications cost with your current dosage and brand. You should also contact your health insurance company to receive their formulary list as this can be used to help you to find ways to cut costs. Your pharmacist and doctors are also great sources of information on ways you can get more bang for your buck when it comes to your prescriptions. Your prescriptions are important or your doctor wouldn't have prescribed them to you as they did, so skipping doses or cutting pills is not giving yourself the full benefit.
Chapter 3: Get Help at the Pharmacy from the Pharmacist
Your pharmacists might not seem like part of your healthcare team, but they certainly are, and should be used as such. Often, people sign for the medications that have been prescribed to them, and never speak to the pharmacist about what they will be taking. Your pharmacist is a fount of information that can let you know about the side effects, how to properly take your medications, proper storage, and other information that your doctor might not have let you know about when giving you the prescription. Don't be shy, but ask questions. Part of their duties as a pharmacist is to help you with taking your medications the right way and keeping you informed. They can even sometimes provide you with the right dosing tool.
One tip is to use the same pharmacy when possible as often the pharmacist is the first to spot when you may have drug interactions with prescriptions prescribed by different doctors.
Chapter 4: Speak with Your Doctors for Lowering Costs and Interactions
Your doctor should be your next stop when it comes to lowering the cost of the prescriptions you are taking and dealing with any potential interactions that the pharmacist may have identified. That formulary list and prescription chart can come in handy when speaking with your doctor as they will let the doctor know what you are taking along with what similar drugs are covered by your insurance company under the formulary. Talk to your doctor about using generics if there isn't another brand similar enough that is covered by your insurance.
In some cases, doctors may also change the prescription to a higher dosage to let you cut the pills because often the price for the number of pills doesn't change even if the pill's dose is higher. That means you can get twice the amount of doses, but at the same cost as before. This may not work with all your prescriptions, but is a good idea for those that can be prescribed in this fashion.
Although it is a good idea to stick with the same pharmacy as noted above, shop around. You may have a location that offers better prices on the prescriptions than other pharmacies. For instance, if you have a warehouse club in your area, such as Costco, speak with their pharmacy about their prices. Often, you can have your prescriptions filled with them at a lower cost without having to be a member of the club. It never hurts to ask, and not asking might hurt your wallet.
SECTION IV: Tackling Your Insurance Head On
Insurance is one of those necessary evils that everyone needs to have to afford their health care but often is confusing or hard to deal with in life. Talking with your insurance company may seem like an insurmountable task, but that is not the case. It just takes a little persistence and a lot of patience.
Chapter 1: Evaluate Your Insurance to See If It Fits Your Current Needs
Not only should you evaluate your doctors, but you can also evaluate your insurance to make sure that it fits your current needs. Think about if many of your prescriptions are not being covered, changes have been made to your coverage that you don't like or other things you are unhappy about in general with your current plan. These may all be signs that your insurance is just not good enough for you anymore, and that it's time to shop around to find a better plan. There are options with Medicare, Medicaid, private health insurance companies, and veterans plans that you can evaluate to see which you qualify for and what will work best for your current situation.
Chapter 2: Research Other Insurance Companies Before Open Enrollment Periods
The first step that you need to take when evaluating new insurance options open to you is to research the different options and companies. You may even find that your current insurance company has a different plan that will be a better fit for your current needs. Some of the things that you will want to research include whether or not your current doctors take this new plan, what prescriptions will be covered under it, and how will your out of pocket costs change? Open enrollment for 2016 has already ended, but getting a head start for next year can be advantageous because it gives you plenty of time to do extensive research. Just be sure to ask whether or not the insurance company may be planning any changes before the new enrollment period. Comparing plans is a great idea, and may give you a list of a few that you like just in case there are any of those pesky changes.
Chapter 3: Is Ancillary Insurance Right For You?
If your health insurance plan does not cover everything that you want, you can look into purchasing ancillary insurance if you don't already have coverage in these areas. Dental insurance is often a great idea because your health insurance company may only cover certain dental procedures. Dentures, partials or keeping up your own teeth can help your current well-being greatly. Not being comfortable enough to eat can cause health problems all of its own.
The same is true of vision insurance. Very few health insurance companies cover anything when it comes to needing new glasses or bifocals. For those who have eye health problems like cataracts and glaucoma, you should speak with your healthcare insurance first about what is covered, and then try to fill any gaps with your ancillary vision insurance, if possible.
You may even want to look at other options in ancillary insurance, such as long-term care or home care to see if there are any plans that you qualify for that meet your needs now or protect yourself and your family in case you need it in the future.
Chapter 4: Tips on Dealing with your Insurance Company
You would probably rather go to the dentist than have to call your insurance company, especially if it is about a pending or denied claim. There are some things that you can do that can greatly help you when it comes time to pick up the phone. First, try to call when they are having a lower volume of callers. Mondays are often pretty busy days since everyone has been waiting the weekend to finally call. This may not be easy to determine for other days, but some companies will give you an idea through a phone message or message on your correspondence about the best times to call.
You should also have all your information with you when you make the call. Keep your insurance card, any information about what you are calling about, and any documentation that they have sent you about your plan or claims. This will make it easy to refer to when finally getting a live person to speak with about your issue.
When dealing with something that has been denied or some other issue, you should get all the information that you can about how to appeal the denial or deal with the issue. This can help you to reverse that denial, and get your insurance to cover this item.
SECTION V: Managing Other Healthcare Providers
You may be using other healthcare providers, such as case workers or chiropractors, and these are resources you can manage, as well. Talk with them about any questions or concerns that you may have about how they treat you and how their work interacts with what your other providers are doing for you.
Chapter 1: Evaluate Your Current Needs When it Comes to Other Healthcare Providers
As with doctors and insurance companies, make sure that these other healthcare providers are meeting your needs. If they are not, think about moving to one that might be more appropriate for your needs.
For those that do not currently have a case manager or other healthcare providers, you may want to look into how these roles may benefit you in your life. Many insurance companies want you to get the best care possible with preventative care and other programs because that may cut their expenses for you down the road. To this end, they may assign you a case manager or case worker to help you with managing your health care needs. Take advantage of this service if it is available to you because they will often help be your advocate and speak on your behalf with great experience dealing with the medical community.
Chapter 2: Does Your Insurance Cover Them?
Your current insurance coverage may impact what other healthcare providers you can have access to for your care, as they may be too cost prohibitive to afford without help. Talk with your insurance company about your coverage to get the full picture of what you can do without help.
Then, it may be time for you to look into other sources of assistance. Don't be afraid to ask for help in affording the things that you need that may help to improve your quality of life. Not only are their federal programs available to assist seniors, but there are also state and local programs that look to enrich the lives of seniors. You may find that you can get meals delivered or a home health aide to visit several times a week through these types of programs where you are not responsible for bearing the cost. Contact your local council of aging or other senior advocate groups in your area.
SECTION VI: Pulling it All Together
Your health is important, and the healthcare resources that you have access to can be managed by you. It is up to you to be your own advocate, so the time is now to start pulling this information all together in a way that will help you to achieve a better health care outlook for yourself.
Chapter 1: Help Others Help You by Formulating a Plan For Managing Your Health Care and Keeping an Updated Medical File
It is wonderful that you have decided to do this for yourself and take charge of your health. You also need to be able to help others help you by creating a plan that is going to inform them of your current health care needs and provide them an updated medical file. You never know when this information may come in handy, so having it around is a good idea. All of the research and tools discussed in this guide can be put together into a file for your reference and your loved ones. It can be helpful to use online tools to create your file and keep a hard copy, but a folder or file box would work just as well. Not only do you need to let others know about your health care plans, but you also need to let them know where they can find this information. Emergencies and accidents are never planned, so being prepared is the best way to face them head on.
Chapter 2: A Special Note to Caregivers
The information provided in this guide is not only for seniors but also for their loved ones, especially those that help provide care to their parents or other relatives. You can and should take a more active role in managing the health care of the seniors in your life. Just because you are not the patient doesn't mean that you don't have any rights when it comes to the health and wellbeing of your loved one, especially if have been granted power of attorney. If you feel that you are not getting the help you need, or are unsure about your rights with the privacy laws, HIPAA.
You should also note of keeping records as you may be the one that had an emergency or accident that causes another family member or friend to have to step up to the plate for providing care to senior loved ones. Knowing prescription routines or when doctor appointments are coming up will be helpful information in just such a circumstance.
For more information on Sunshine Retirement Living and to speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable staff members, click here today.
*This blog was first published here: Sunshine Retirement Living

subset: commoncrawl


text:
With the vast amount of information out there and the fact that new scientific discoveries are being made all the time, finding quality information you can use in your practice is far from easy.
There are new opportunities in medicine all the time: new forums for education, new journals being published, new research that helps us uncover the mysteries of how the human body functions.
Here are a few of my favorites:
- Institute for Functional Medicine
- Metabolic Medicine Institute
- American Academy of Anti-Aging & Regenerative Medicine
- American College for the Advancement of Medicine
- American Academy of Environmental Medicine
- Center for Mind Body Medicine
- American Holistic Medical Association
- Flatiron Functional Medicine on Linked-In
- Rosenthal Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine
- Integrative Medicine Journal
- Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine
- Global Advances in Health & Medicine
- Alternative Medicine Review
- Holistic Primary Care
- BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine
- European Journal of Integrative Medicine
- Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
- Natural Medicine Journal
- Townsend Letter
- Columbia Botanical Medicine Course
- Institute for Functional Medicine Courses
- Paracelsus Biological Medicine of North America (PBMN) Seminar Series
- Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine
- Applying Functional Medicine in Clinical Practice (AFMCP), The Institute for Functional Medicine
- Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine
Physician Websites
Databases & Researches
- Environmental Working Group
- Intute: Health and Life Sciences Medicine Gateway (Formerly known as OMNI)
www.intute.ac.uk/healthandlifesciences/medicine/ - Merck Manual
www.merck.com/mrkshared/mmanual/home.jsp - Harvard Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology
mcb.harvard.edu/Biolinks.html - MedWeb Plus
medwebplus.com/about.html - National Organization for Rare Disorders-Rare Disease Database
www.rarediseases.org/ - Cancer Detection and Prevention Online
www.cancerprev.org/ - Pesticides, Metals, & Chemical
vm.cfsan.fda.gov/~lrd/pestadd.html - Medical Biochemistry Subject List
web.indstate.edu/thcme/mwking/subjects.html - The ScHARR Guide
www.nettingtheevidence.org.uk/ - NLM Clinical Trials Database
clinicaltrials.gov - PubMed
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/PubMed/ - USDA Nutrient Database
Other Resources
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM)
NIH website which offers information regarding alternative therapies and access to Medline. - NIH Office of Dietary Supplements
Offers a database of published, international, scientific literature on dietary supplements, including vitamins, minerals, and botanicals. - Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)
This NIH Office of Alternative Medicine web site provides access to CAM methods, systems, and CAM & diseases. - Herb Research Foundation (HRF)
Access to HRF, a nonprofit research and educational organization focusing on herbs and medicinal plants. - American Botanical Council's (ABC's) Herbal Information
Herbs that have been compiled from a number of reputable scientific sources including the German Commission E Monographs, Botanical Safety Handbook, and numerous clinical trials that have been referenced in HerbalGram, their quarterly publication. - Healthfinder
Consumer health and human services information developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. - NIH Consumer Health Information
This web site provides access to consumer publication titles specific to certain conditions/diseases. - HealthGate
This web site provides patient and consumer information regarding drugs and vitamins, symptoms and medical tests, and general health. - Medherb
Provides links to medical information and to any resource relevant to medicinal herbs or herbalism practiced in clinical settings, plus sample articles on hundreds of herbs. - HerbNET
Information and sales of herbs, herb products and remedies, and herb publications. - Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN)
Access to FAAN, a nonprofit organization established to increase public awareness about food allergy and anaphylaxis. - Dr. Duke's Phytochemical and Ethnobotanical Databases
Database of phytochemical ingredients for herbs and spices. - vm.cfsan.fda.gov/~lrd/fdinter.html
Consumer-oriented website that discusses food and drug interactions in common terms that will be familiar to patients.
Other Educational Resources/Books
- A Textbook of Natural Medicine by Michael T. Murray and Joseph Pizzorno
- Clinical Nutrition: A Functional Approach by The Institute for Functional Medicine
- The Textbook of Functional Medicine, by The Institute for Functional Medicine
- Jeff Bland Seminar Series


text:
Sweet Romance Satin Drawstring Shorts
Add a little romance to your wardrobe in these dreamy satin shorts. Multi colored floral clusters lay against a navy ground to shape flowy shorts with godet pleats. They feature a high waist and elastic waistband for comfort and mobility. Easily wear them on their own or wear it with the matching top to make it a matching set along with some strappy heels.
- Satin
- Elastic waist
- Lined
- Godet pleats
- Color: Blue Pink Multi
Size + Fit
- Model is 5'8" and wearing size XS
- Measurements taken from size S
- Waist: 25"
- Inseam: 2 3/4"
Self: 100% Polyester, Lining: 96% Polyester, 4% Spandex
Style Number


text:
David Wang, a famous hacker also known as "planetbeing" has managed to port Android on the iPhone 3G, as you can see in the following video. This took a couple of weeks of work and DIY action, but now you can use Android OS on Apple's handset, to browse the web, run any app that doesn't require audio support and send/receive texts.
David promised to post the needed instructions and binaries in a couple of days, for you all to mess with them. Improvements have also been made, compared to the original port: bugs were fixed, the WiFi driver now works with all Android-specific extensions and overall the solution is more stable. There's also an Android icon added in the boot menu, for more accessibility.
Future versions will include audio support on the iPhone 3G, better power management and backlight control.
[via PC World]


text:
A while back, I tweeted that my new MacBook Pro was my fave-ever portable Mac—this despite having only used the machine for under two weeks at that point. A few people asked me "why your fave-ever?," so I thought I'd use those queries as an excuse to post here on my near-silent blog.
The specific machine in question is a 2010 15" MacBook Pro with the 2.66GHz Core i7 processor, 4GB of RAM, and (when new) a 5400rpm 500GB hard drive...and, oh yes, the single most important spec: the anti-glare 1680x1050 high resolution screen.
This machine replaced a 2008 MacBook Pro (last of the non-unibody laptops) with a 2.66GHz Core 2 Duo, 4GB of RAM, and a 7200rpm 200GB hard drive (and the only screen at the time, the standard 1440x900).
Comparing the two, the only area where I gave up anything at all was in the hard drive's speed. I took care of that problem by installing a new Seagate Momentus hybrid hard drive, the 500GB version, to be exact. (A hybrid drive is one that combines a small solid state drive—4GB in this case—with a traditional drive, and then uses its firmware to optimize performance on the fly. For more on the Seagate hybrid drive, see this excellent article at Anandtech.)
With all the specs out of the way, what is it about this machine that makes it my all-time fave portable? There are basically five key things that stand out:
- The anti-glare high-res screen. I had been holding off on upgrading to a newer MacBook Pro because I absolutely detest glossy screens—I owned a MacBook with a glossy screen once, and gave up on it after only a few months. (My Mac Pro, too, is connected to nothing but anti-glare displays. Mirrors are great, but not when they're also my monitors!) At first, only the 17" MacBook Pros were available with anti-glare screens. But when Apple added an anti-glare display option to the 15" MacBook Pro, I felt it was time to upgrade.
I was a bit leery, though, that the screen resolution might be too high for my aging (but still 20-20) eyes. Some in-store time with the machine (thank you, Apple, for stocking at least one anti-glare model in our local retail store) allayed those fears. In fact, after only a few minutes with the high-res display, everything on the screen of a nearby 1440x900 MacBook Pro looked absolutely huge.
Having worked with the display for a few weeks now, there's no way I can switch back to a lower resolution—the 36% greater pixel count is most welcomed for everything from web browsing to working in Coda. It even makes it possible to use Screen Sharing to my Mac Pro (running at 1920x1200), and work in a scaled-to-fit window without much difficulty.
- The keyboard. Previous to this MacBook Pro, my favorte laptop keyboard was the one found on the 12" PowerBook G4. That keyboard was so solid, it felt like it'd easily handle a 20-pound rock dropped on it from a couple feet in the air. My 2008 MBP's keyboard was decent, but it definitely had more 'give' in it than I prefer. This new one, though...if it's not as rock solid as the G4's keyboard, it's very very close. I much prefer typing on a solid-feeling surface, and this machine has that requirement handled.
- The speed. I never felt my old MacBook Pro was really slow...but wow, this new one is really fast. There's always that "I just spent money on a new Mac, it must be faster" emotion, of course, but really, this one is faster. I test-ripped a couple of DVDs, and this machine is basically neck-and-neck with my desktop four year old Mac Pro, powered by two 2.66GHz Xeon server-class processors. Not bad for a machine I can carry around.
I haven't done much gaming with the new machine yet, but it's got a much better graphics card than its predecessor, so I'm expecting good things. I just need to take the time to install the 60+GB of X-Plane and start flying around a bit.
- The design. The unibody design of the newest laptop Macs is really something to behold—and hold! At first, I wasn't sure about the separate keys on the keyboard, but it feels completely natural in use. While the anti-glare screen isn't quite as nice looking as the mirrored, er, glossy screen (as it lacks the black surrounding bezel), the end result is still one nice, elegant laptop.
- The lack of a latch. This is a minor thing, but it's something I notice every time I open or close the machine, so I notice it a lot. I never gave much thought the old MacBook Pro's locking mechanism. However, after using the new one's dead-simple "just open or close it" no-latch design, the old method now seems quite complicated. Nothing to fumble for in the dark, just grab the lid and lift. Simplicity in action.
So those are some of the reasons why this is now my fave-ever Mac laptop. Of course, I'm publishing this the night before an Apple announcement, where it's widely anticipated that some new MacBook Air models will be displayed.
Still, even if my dream 11.6" 1440x900 MacBook Air comes out tomorrow, I'll still be thrilled with my 15" anti-glare high-res machine. I love the screen, the resolution, the solid keyboard, the design, and the overall "carved from a hunk of metal" feeling of this MacBook Pro.


text:
Award winning and industry led, CodeClan's mission is to generate a steady stream of digital talent that will allow Scotland's vibrant digital sector to flourish and drive the economy.
Taking CodeClan to its landmark placement is Euan Ramsay from Glasgow who has been recruited by Registers of Scotland as a junior software developer. He recently completed CodeClan's 16-week software development course, which also saw him achieve a Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) Level 8 pass in Software Development.
Euan (37), who previously worked in a freelance photography and video production, studied object oriented programming approaches and test driven development principles.
He said: "I have got exactly the job I was looking for. I'll be working with RoS to maintain their computer systems.
"From CodeClan's networking events, to guest lectures and visits to tech companies, the connection with industry has been fantastic. After the course finished, a CodeClan representative was constantly in touch to ensure we were aware of jobs that were coming up. Around half my class had a job within four weeks of completion."
Euan is the fifth CodeClan graduate to have gained work with the organisation responsible for compiling and maintaining 18 public registers relating to property and other legal documents in Scotland.
The Keeper of the Registers of Scotland, Sheenagh Adams, said: "We're delighted to welcome Euan to RoS. The skills and experience he has gained during his time with CodeClan will be invaluable as we work towards our goal of becoming a fully digital business by 2020. We are proud to support and nurture our staff, and it's a pleasure to be welcoming Euan to his first position following his graduation."
CodeClan is a key element in the Government's 'Digital Strategy for Scotland', which aims to create the conditions in which our digital technologies industries can thrive. Working with industry to meet a shared objective of employing 150,000 in digital technology roles over the next five years.
Currently, over 96% of CodeClan graduates land their first job in Scotland's tech sector within six months and over 70% secure a job within 3 months of finishing the intensive course.
Adam Bannon, Acting CEO, at CodeClan said: "Our courses in Edinburgh and Glasgow exist to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to successfully begin careers in the technology industry. We work with employers to ensure everything that is taught is relevant and fits in with what they are looking for in new starts.
"The fact Euan is the fifth graduate to be placed with Registers of Scotland shows how highly the courses are regarded in the industry and the benefits that each student is bringing to their respective employer."
The digital technologies sector is one of the nation's economic success stories, generating over £5 billion in GVA for Scotland every year.
CodeClan opened in Edinburgh in 2015 with the determination of offering a solution to the digital skills gap in Scotland by producing a continuous flow of job-ready developers via its intensive and immersive 16-week software development course.


text:
Gift Wrap Service
Gift wrap service is temporarily ceased whilst we replenish our stock of suitable wrapping paper
For £5 we will beautifully gift-wrap your cushion in our silver paper with your choice of wide pale pink, pale blue, dark green or gold ties.
We will attach a smart gift card with your message. (please write your message in the box, and the address to which you would like it sent).
We will endeavour to deliver as soon as possible to the date you request.
To order your gift wrapping just tick the 'Gift' box when placing your order for a cushion


text:
How Can You Save Money On Healthcare & Disinfectant Products Online
Many people look for an exclusive deal, offers, discounts from online e-commerce platforms. These days almost every 3 out of 5 people is looking for personal healthcare products online. Use of these products is inevitable especially in this pandemic situation of COVID-19.
Products like Best Disinfectant Wipes, Best Disinfectant Spray Online, etc are some useful products that you can easily buy from almost every e-commerce website. But the price factor is an important thing which affects every type of economic deals.
Due to the huge demand for personal healthcare products and less supply of products leads to an increase in online wholesaler and retailers. So you should know how to save money on personal healthcare online if you are buying in bulk or retail.
Top 5 Tips To Save Money On Personal Healthcare Products Online:
- Pack Of Products: There are many products like Hand sanitizer with wipes, soaps with sprays etc, are some pack offers that you can buy and save money very easily two products. You should check the price of each product separately also.
- Verified Products: Many companies provide expensive goods without verification mark especially on products like Sanitizer, hand rubs, etc. You should check the quality standard and then consider buying any product.
- Compare Multiple Platforms: These days, there is large no. of e-commerce website like Flipkart, Amazon, etc, whose price is so competitive. In this, you should compare the price of multiple platforms to find the best deal.
- New E-commerce Websites: After COVID 19, there are many new companies came in front and sold products like Best Disinfectant Spray, sanitizer, sprays, etc. New companies provide new and valuable offers to customer to attract large no. of people.
- Product Comparison: Price comparison is an important thing but products comparison is an inevitable thing if you are buying expensive goods online like mobile phones, Electronic Accessories, clothing etc.
Hope you understood how you can save money on healthcare products online. As we told earlier, you should use some useful goods like Sanitizer Sprays, Best Disinfectant Wipes, etc. You should Buy Antibacterial Products as there is no reason to not to use these items especially in this pandemic situation of COVID-19.


text: I want to come with you to Alderaan. There's nothing for me here now. I want to learn the ways of the Force and be a Jedi, like my father before me. Don't be too proud of this technological terror you've constructed. The ability to destroy a planet is insignificant next to the power of the Force. You don't believe in the Force, do you? I don't know what you're talking about. I am a member of the Imperial Senate on a diplomatic mission to Alderaan.


text:
By Cameron Thomas
There is nothing like the relief of completing a task, being able to check another thing off of that to-do list. God had promised Joshua, "You will distribute the land I swore to their fathers to give them as an inheritance" (Joshua 1:6). And after years of battle and combat, Joshua was finally able to obtain the promise from his initial call that their conquest will yield them a land of rest and serenity.
The process of getting to this promised destination was not without losses and calamity, but God promised that this day would come. Like many of us, Joshua has had to explore unknown terrain with simply a directive from God, whose promises may seem prolonged or even unobtainable from time to time. Yet, He remains trustworthy and unchanging in His faithfulness. Joshua experienced doubt and delay but neither of these things hindered God's plan; He orchestrated all of the details and took into consideration every aspect of life for the children of Israel. And after everything they had experienced with Him, "The LORD gave them rest" (Joshua 21:44).
From our limited perspective, we will never truly know the full revelation of God's character. You and I must become aware, even in our own personal life, that the God who directs and instructs, whether through His Word or by His Spirit, is also the God who delivers on His promises. It is worth examining our own, personal experiences with God and asking this question: Has God changed in the midst of changing circumstances? Believers must be willing to rest and trust in the character of God, the one who invited us along this faith journey into our own hearts and into the world around us. So, has God's character changed since these events took place in Scripture, when God brought His people to the promised land? Not at all.
The memories of military battles and trials propel God's people to a moment of rest. Rest provides an opportunity for reflection, the chance to remember God's goodness and presence in the past, which can reframe our perspective on the journey before us. Whatever trials have led to this moment in our lives, be they numerous and diverse, God has brought us through them. Sickness, betrayal, and defeat may have led to this place, but they do not dim or extinguish God's character. No matter what our own stories may tell, God always brings us to a place of rest, which we can only truly experience in His presence.
Good deeds or merit do not grant us exemption from pain, but the Master's promise holds us together when we feel like we're falling apart. The promises of God usher us through the darkness and anchor us in times of turbulence. We cannot tell the story of Joshua and the conquest of Canaan without also telling of God's faithfulness. May it be said of our own lives that our story is permeated and directed by the faithful hand of God, the One who keeps His promises.
Post Comments (2)
2 thoughts on "The Lord Fulfills His Promises"
It is so easy to breeze through these chapters to where we come to the point where'God gave them rest'. I keep thinking though that if I had been one of the Israelites living at that time, going through each day doing whatever my task may be, did I have hope of God's promises being fulfilled one day? I must remember that even today as I get ready for my daynof work (my task) that God's promises for me too will be fulfilled one day. Don't lose hope and seeknto serve Him fully today.
"We cannot tell the story of Joshua and the conquest of Canaan without also telling of God's faithfulness." What a great line!


text:
Santa Rosa
Sylvan Learning of Santa Rosa
This school year you don't have to go at it alone. From homework support to college prep, we can help your child build confidence, become eager to learn and see real results in the classroom.
Our personalized tutoring is tailored to your child's specific needs to achieve the best results. In fact, Sylvan students achieve up to 3x more growth in their math and reading scores than their peers.
Special Offers
Grade Inflation is Real.
Find out if your child is affected and learn where they really stand academically for just $29.
Sylvan Learning
Santa Rosa
Ste 112
Santa Rosa CA 95403
Also serving: Rohnert Park, Windsor, Healdsburg, Sebastopol, Cotati, Petaluma, West County, Kenwood, , Cloverdale, Guerneville, Ukiah, Lake County
Mon | 12:00 pm - 6:30 pm |
Tue | 9:00 am - 6:30 pm |
Wed | 9:00 am - 6:30 pm |
Thu | 9:00 am - 6:30 pm |
Fri | By appointment |
Sat | 9:30 am - 1:30 pm |
Sun | Closed |
Services we offer at Santa Rosa
We offer K-12 tutoring, college and career readiness and test prep to help your child at any stage of his or her educational journey.
Test Prep
Courses and Camps
Meet Our Team
Our tutors are passionate, warm educators who love inspiring children to succeed. We selectively choose tutors who know local curriculum and can link Sylvan lessons to what's being taught in Santa Rosa schools.
The latest news and resources from Santa Rosa
We offer K-12 tutoring, college and career readiness and test prep to help your child at any stage of his or her educational journey.
Sorry there are no news and resources at this time.
Start your child on the path to academic success today
Give us a call at (707) 206-6282 or fill out the form to discuss your child's learning goals.


text:
As we all know, freshers are still waiting for their entrance exams to be held in Delhi University. Amidst this delayed situation of conducting exams, the entrance exam question paper has been leaked for Delhi University (Law Faculty).
You might like : SFI Delhi Extends its Assistance for Admission to Universities in Delhi for the Academic Year 2020-21
Delhi University : L.L.B Entrance Exam
The Delhi University law entrance examination (L.L.B) was slated on September 9th, from 8 A.M to 10 A.M. But we hear that the question paper has been leaked and disseminated rampantly on WhatsApp groups and social media before the paper was released by the National Test Agency (NTA) or Delhi University (DU). Students are now facing immense hardship and chaos due to this sudden mishap. Which is just adding to their anxiety caused by this pandemic and lock down.
Here are some proofs of the entrance exam question paper which have been on social media
What Did A Second-Year Student Do..
- A second-year law student at the campus, who gives free coaching to the aspirants for law entrance tests, went to the Maurice Nagar police station to file an FIR. However, the police, he says, didn't register his FIR. Hence, he filed a complaint against the National Test Agency.
- He has also written an email to the dean of the Faculty of Law and the Bar Council of India, requesting a proper investigation in this matter. However, he hasn't received any response for the same.
Students Reaction
Students appearing in the law entrance examination for admission in DU had complained about the answer responses being tampered. Some students also alleged mismanagement at some centers, where students were asked to sit wherever they wanted to. Not only this! Their bio-metric also took place after the examination.


text:
Jheryl Busby dies at 59; music executive led revival of Motown Records
Jheryl Busby, a music executive who led a revival of Motown Records while president and chief executive of the company from 1988 to 1995, was found dead Tuesday in a hot tub at his home in Malibu. He was 59.
Jheryl Busby obituary: The obituary of Jheryl Busby, former president of Motown Records, in Thursday's California section incorrectly stated that Stax Records was defunct. The Concord Music Group revived the Stax imprint in 2007.
"It appears it could be a possible accident, or he died of natural causes," Ed Winter, a spokesman for the Los Angeles County coroner's office, said Wednesday. An autopsy was planned.
Busby got his start in the music business doing promotional work for now-defunct Stax Records in the early 1970s.
"I thought it was such a great job," Busby said in an interview with the Washington Post in 1991. "It was going in stores, educating the store owner on what records you had coming out, and trying to get merchandise space. It was mom-and-pop stores -- little small black stores -- and your job was putting up the posters and creating a buzz on records."
He was so successful at stirring up interest in his label's acts that he quickly moved on to promotional and artist development roles at Casablanca, Atlantic, CBS and A&M Records.
At his next stop, MCA Records, Busby rose to become president of the company's black music division by 1984. He made a priority of signing established performers, including Patti LaBelle and Gladys Knight, who had lost their record company deals in the post-disco era.
He also helped discover and market such groups as New Edition, Jody Watley, Bobby Brown, and the Jets, helping them cross over from the R&B music charts to the more mainstream top 40 lists. Along the way, he turned MCA into the industry's black music sales leader.
In 1988, he was hired at Motown, the legendary black music hit factory founded by Berry Gordy Jr. in Detroit in 1959. The company had been in decline since uprooting operations and moving to Los Angeles in 1972.
Gordy sold the company in 1988 for $61 million to a partnership of MCA Records, the distributor of Motown's music, and Boston Ventures, an investment group. Busby took over as Motown's president and chief executive, gaining a 10% ownership stake in the process.
"I thought it couldn't get any better: president and CEO of probably the most important record label in America in terms of black music," he told the New York Times.
Building on stalwarts Lionel Richie and Stevie Wonder, Busby brought Diana Ross back to the label after several years away. Then he started developing new acts, including Boyz II Men, Queen Latifah and Johnny Gill.
Busby's magic touch was evident. In 1990, Motown had five songs reach No. 1 on the R&B charts, and sales of the company's LPs jumped from No. 10 to No. 4 on the R&B album charts.
"I had tremendous respect for the way he continued the Motown legacy," singer/songwriter Smokey Robinson, who had a string of Motown hits starting in the 1960s, said in a statement Tuesday.
But Busby was forced out in 1995 after a legal dispute with MCA. Three years later, he was named head of the urban music division at Dreamworks SKG.
In 2004, he founded Def Soul Classics Records, signing standbys LaBelle and the Isley Brothers, and two years later continued his partnership with LaBelle by starting Umbrella Recordings.
Busby also became a majority stakeholder in Founders National Bank, the first African-American-owned and operated commercial bank in California, in 1998. He remained a backer after several mergers with other black-owned banks and, at the time of his death, was vice chairman of the board of directors of OneUnited Bank.
Born May 5, 1949, in Los Angeles, Busby attended Cal State Long Beach and worked as an inventory clerk at Mattel Toys before climbing the ladder to new-toy coordinator.
Information on survivors and services was incomplete.
Noland is a Times staff writer.
More to Read
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for the L.A. Times biggest news, features and recommendations in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.


text:
About Montret
Committed to fashion and obsessed with design, Montret is an upscale online shopping experience that offers a carefully curated collection of brand names and authentic designer items for the most discerning and dedicated fashion-forward individuals – and all at incredibly affordable prices.
Since 2018, Montret has offered deep discounts on some of the hottest brands, including luxury watches, designer apparel, and on-trend accessories. Offering stunning bags, apparel, jewelry, shoes, watches, and accessories from both designer and stand-out brand names, Montret delivers tremendous value, incredible upscale items, and unparalleled service.
Offering incredible discounts and remarkable products, Montret is a unique online boutique unlike any other. At Montret, we believe that every woman deserves a stunning piece of jewelry or a killer designer bag that makes her feel like a million dollars, trendy clothing that makes her feel like a queen, and exquisite accessories that make her feel like a boss. We believe every man deserves an incredible watch that makes him feel stylish and powerful, and modern apparel that makes him stand out in a crowd. No matter the mood, no matter the moment – Montret believes that everyone deserves to indulge themselves with luxurious apparel, jewelry, watches, and accessories without paying full retail price. Our commitment to offering the latest and greatest in fashion at unbelievably low prices is matched only by our passion for delivering superior customer service and support to our clients. We believe that fashion has no limitations, and as such, should be accessible and affordable.
In other words, Montret is the high-end, upscale, affordable brand name online shopping experience you've always dreamed of.
At Montret, we are a committed community of design and fashion lovers. We understand the thrill of the hunt, the satisfaction of finding an incredible piece to add to your collection, and the exhillerating feeling of getting something so posh at a deep discount. We understand the excitement that comes from finding the perfect signature item to bring a look together, and we fully appreciate the unmitigated delight that comes when getting an incredible deal on a brand name item. Montret is committed to doing the hard work of finding and cultivating this incredible collection and delivering these incredible designs at remarkably discounted prices. With a passion for customer service and satisfaction, we'll do all the hard work – you just enjoy the fashion.


text:
At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.
Why Do People Give Gift Certificates?
Gift certificates make a highly convenient gift. Most people feel that they're a step above handing someone cash, since they take a little more thought and effort to acquire, but they still give recipients the benefit of choosing their own gifts.
You can purchase gift certificates almost anywhere. Movie theaters, department stores, spas, restaurants and just about any other place that serves customers offer gift cards. Some places even allow you to buy gift cards online, so you never have to leave home to do your shopping. You can buy very specific gift cards, like one redeemable for a single movie ticket or more generic versions, like a $20 gift card good at any store in the mall.
Gift certificates are a safe choice when you don't know the person very well. At the same time, gift cards don't have to be impersonal. Since there are so many types of gift cards available, you can find the perfect one for anyone's interests.
Gift certificates are also great for people you know are picky or for the person who seems to have everything. If you're going to include a gift receipt with the item anyway because you know they're going to return it, why not save everyone the hassle and just give a gift card?
Gift certificates are especially useful when you have to give a large number of gifts at once, like during the holidays. Save valuable time by choosing gift cards for everyone on your list. Similarly, they are great options when you are buying gifts for many members of a group; if you want to thank your coworkers for helping on a particularly arduous project, you can give each of them a gift card.
The downside to gift cards is that if you are actually close to the recipient, they might feel hurt that you didn't buy them a more personalized gift. Most people, though, will appreciate the chance to buy something they really want or to enjoy a special treat while someone else is paying the bill.
You can also embellish a gift certificate by presenting it in an attractive envelope or even in a box with a special bow. This way you convey to the gift-giver that you put in a special effort, but they still benefit from all the advantages of gift cards.
Discussion Comments
Oasis11-That is a really good tip. I had never thought about that. I know that day spa gift certificates are really popular too.
We received spa gift certificates once for a massage. I know most people would have loved it, but I was uncomfortable because I don't like the idea of getting a massage from a stranger.
I think salon gift certificates are better because you can get your nails done or get you hair cut or highlighted.
I think that holiday gift certificates are a great idea but a safer bet would be a gift card for a movie theater, a restaurant in the area, or a big box retailer where everyone shops like a Target. You really can not go wrong with any of those choices.
Anon1180-I don't know the answer to your question but I do know that they did away with that in the United States.
I wanted to say that I think that business gift certificates are not a good thing. I prefer offering a generous basket from like a Harry and David or a great bottle of wine.
The holiday gift certificates are great for friends and family especially when you do not know what to get. I know some people give internet gift certificates, but I have never received one or given one that way.
I usually get the standard gift cards. My sister always sends my children Toys 'R Us gift cards in the mail. Sending gift cards in the mail saves you on postage, but you have to make sure that the package does not look like a gift card or it will be stolen.
That happened to me once and I learned my lesson. I always give gift cards in person and if I have to send them I will get a larger bag and make it look like I have a much larger package.
Is it legal to put an expiration date on a gift certificate in Canada?


text:
What is Surrender in Blackjack?
Game Objective:
The objective of Blackjack is to accumulate cards with total value as close to 21 as possible, without going over 21 ('going bust'). A hands value can be determined by adding all the cards in your hand together. The value assigned to cards is as follows:
The cards from 2 through 10 are valued as indicated.
Face cards (Jacks, Queens, and Kings) are all valued at 10 points.
An Ace counts as 1 or 11. It is worth 11 unless that would cause hand value to exceed 21 (bust), in which case it has a value of 1.
Soft total – A hand containing an Ace that can be counted as 11 without the total going above 21. For example, Ace-6 is soft 17.
Hard total – A hand containing an Ace that can be counted as only 1 because counting it as 11 would make the hand go over 21. For example, Ace-6-10 is hard 17.
A tie between the player and the house is known as a 'push', and means that no one wins or loses. If the first two cards dealt are an Ace and any 10-point card, it is known as blackjack, and is an automatic win for the player at 1.5 to 1, unless the house ties.
Game Information:
The minimum bet is US $1, and the maximum bet is US $100. The maximum bet applies for the initial bet of the game.
Six decks of 52 cards is used in this version of Blackjack.
The deck is shuffled after every hand.
The dealer must draw to 16 and stand on 17.
Only one split is allowed.
The player may double down on any number.
The number of cards that can be dealt to the player is limited only by choice (by clicking on 'STAND'), or by the hand total being greater than or equal to 21.
If the dealer has a 10, Jack, Queen, or King as the up card it is possible he has a blackjack, in which case your hand will lose if you have not bet on insurance, or you also have a blackjack.
How to Play:
Your chips are stacked in denominations of $1, $5, $25 and $100 on middle of the table.
Select the amount you want to wager on a given hand by clicking on the chip of that denomination. Then click on the place bet circle to place the chip there.
Once the wager is placed, click on the 'DEAL' button. The 'DEAL' button will be enabled only if a bet is equal to or more than the minimum bet.
The dealer deals you two cards face-up, and then deals himself two cards, one face-up and the other face-down.
Depending on the strength of your cards, you can choose from the following options offered to you: 'HIT', 'STAND', 'DOUBLE', or 'SPLIT', as per the game rules.
Four of Wands is a card used in Latin suited playing cards which include tarot decks. It is part of what tarot card readers call the "Minor Arcana".
Tarot cards are used throughout much of Europe to play Tarot card games.
In English-speaking countries, where the games are largely unknown, Tarot cards came to be utilized primarily for divinatory...
100 Assorted Pokemon Trading Cards with Bonus 6 Free Holo Foils Toy (Pokemon USA Nintendo)
Super Smash Bros. - Nintendo 3DS Video Games (Nintendo)
Spot It Toy
Shopkins Season 3 (12-Pack) - Characters May Vary Toy (Shopkins)
Ohio Art Classic Etch A Sketch Magic Screen Toy (Ohio Art)


text:
Cambodia Is Showing How Small Countries Could Stand Up to the US
Cambodia, unlike its similarly sized and in many cases much larger peers in the international community, is relentless in is criticism of the US' blatant intervention in its domestic political affairs, showing how small countries could stand up to the US if their leaders actually have the will to do so.
Cambodia surprised many across the world when one of its spokesmen said earlier this month that American diplomats should leave the country if they don't like it, specifically remarking that "we don't welcome you" and adding that "We have the same right to speak as President Donald Trump. It's simple. If you don't like it here, leave." Whatever one thinks about Trump's controversial rhetoric against the four congresswomen collectively referred to as "the Squad", Cambodia should be commended for throwing his own words right back at him in response to the incessant criticisms that American diplomats have made about the Southeast Asian state over the past couple of years. The verbal attacks have increased in intensity recently after rumors began to be floated about a supposedly secret deal that it clinched with China to open up a military "base" there, which if true, would be more of a standard overseas logistical facility of the sort that all Great Powers' navies have than anything else.
Cambodia countered these unsubstantiated claims by inviting journalists to visit the facility in question in order to show them that there isn't a Chinese naval presence of any kind there. It also doubled down on its strategic partnership with the People's Republic by announcing that it's purchasing tens of millions of dollars of more weaponry from it in order to defend its sovereignty. That's an extremely urgent task, too, since the US has been conspiring to overthrow the government of long-running Prime Minister Hun Sen, something that Washington denies but which Phnom Penh has proven beyond any doubt with the February 2018 publication of its 13-page report titled "Cambodia: Stability And Development First". The authorities make the well-articulated and inarguable case that the US-managed so-called "opposition" had been engaging in treasonous activity against their homeland at the behest of their foreign patron by trying to stir up Color Revolution unrest a few years ago.
They also reminded readers of the US' long history of conventional and hybrid aggression against their country throughout the previous half-century, pointing out the "politically uncomfortable" fact that it was none other than America itself which openly supported the genocidal Khmer Rouge's claim to leadership for over a decade after its overthrow at the hands of invading Vietnamese forces in 1978-1979. The US has worked very hard to suppress any public talk about this Machiavellian policy since then, which is why its allied international Mainstream Media outlets paid barely any attention to the report's publication, or if they did, they left out the historical review contained therein and simply dismissed the work as "propaganda" for justifying "anti-democratic actions" against the "opposition". Nowadays, the US is actively working to shape the weaponized infowar narrative that Cambodia is a bought-and-paid-for Chinese "puppet state" in order to sow the seeds of regional distrust and discredit the government in the eyes of ultra-nationalist forces.
The Cambodian government obviously isn't taking any of this laying down like some countries do, but is opposing it tooth and nail in both kinetic and non-kinetic ways. It disbanded the largest so-called "opposition" group after the treason trial and then released the aforementioned report explaining its decision in detail (and importantly, in an historical context) to the international audience. Phnom Penh has refused to be bullied by the US despite being a comparatively weak country by most metrics, showing that its similarly sized and in many cases also much larger peers don't have to bend over backwards for Washington either if they truly have the political will to oppose its schemes. The example being pioneered by Cambodia is a powerful one that could serve to inspire other states as well, which could learn a lot from the "Cambodia: Stability And Development First" report and Phnom Penh's relevant actions in respect to defending its sovereignty. It's for that reason, however, that American pressure on the country will continue to intensify for the foreseeable future.
By Andrew Korybko
Source: Eurasia Future


text:
What is the World Coming To? – Sermon by Bishop David Altus
As Jesus was leaving the temple, one of his disciples said to him, 'Look, Teacher! What massive stones! What magnificent buildings!'
2 'Do you see all these great buildings?' replied Jesus. 'Not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.'
3 As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John and Andrew asked him privately, 4 'Tell us, when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are all about to be fulfilled?'
5 Jesus said to them: 'Watch out that no one deceives you. 6 Many will come in my name, claiming, "I am he," and will deceive many. 7 When you hear of wars and rumours of wars, do not be alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. 8 Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places, and famines. These are the beginning of birth-pains.
I might be a brave or foolish bishop tacking these words of Jesus here today because Jesus begins by talking about buildings. Big buildings… Church buildings.
And I know that has been a challenging and sensitive issue for you here at St Petri in recent times.
Building projects always are… (My office is near the old LeCornu site in O'Connell St … a plot of land that has remained empty for the last 32 years. Rob Voigt probably wondered if he would ever see anything go up on it and so have I for 12 years now. They did plant some grass so I have watched that grow…. Nothing gets built because no one can agree on what any building should be and whatever the entrepreneurs put up the North Adelaide residents knock down!)
Buildings mean more to us than we admit.
Take your own home and what it means to you …
And Churches like this mean something to us for good reason too …
A lot of prayer here, listening to God here, time at the altar and table here, longing expressed to God in prayer here, maybe with tears … a lot of confession and forgiveness here. Saying "I do" and "goodbye" here … It means something … It matters what happens here, apart from whatever we have invested personally in this place.
We meet God in places like this.
That's why this place matters
No wonder when someone suggests we alter it in some way that can be threatening, it can mess with our faith sometimes.
So imagine when Jesus said to his disciples "see these stones, see this temple -It is about to be demolished…"
That must have mattered to them – big time! Not just because the temple was huge (some stones were 12x6x3 metres large, some of them marble, some overlayed with gold making archways, tunnels and staircases – it was an impressive building that was worked on for 80 years!
The temple was not only impressively big but it was also about a big God for them. It was where they met God and it was literally the centre of the universe, God's throne, his seat from where he directed everything! So you don't mess with the temple!
The church as they knew it – and it was at the centre of their faith and their world, was at some point in time going to come crashing down around their ears.
So what would that mean? About God and for them?
'Do you see all these great buildings?' replied Jesus. 'Not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down
And it was not long after the last stone was put in place and decorated that the whole house of God came down like a house of cards in 70AD- destroyed by enemies. All that remains is the wailing wall – and Jews and Arabs still argue about who it belongs to!
Imagine God's house being torn down…. What would the destruction of God's house mean for where God is now? And where God can be met and found? It would seem like the end of the world to them… And maybe that's what Jesus was preparing them and us for too in what he says when they asked him how they would know it was about to happen what the warning signs would be… He hints at the end of something even bigger than the temple building.
Near the end of the church year as we reflect on the end of life on earth as we know it and the appearing of Christ we wonder too what signs we will get before the end happens.
Today it can feel like the church and the world are falling apart politically, environmentally, and morally. Things we have grown up with relied on and treasured are being taken away from us, torn down in some way. The church we once knew is no more or endangered. We wonder what will be left?
My mother used to say "what is the world coming to?"
And her mother said it before that….
Both thought the end was near soon.
Us kids just rolled our eyes and went off to play……
But mum was trying to read the signs of the beginning of the end in her own way and her own day.
Jesus said there would be signs before the temple as they knew it came crashing down…
'Tell us, when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are all about to be fulfilled?' 5 Jesus said to them: 'Watch out that no one deceives you. 6 Many will come in my name, claiming, "I am he," and will deceive many. 7 When you hear of wars and rumours of wars, do not be alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. 8 Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places, and famines.
Jesus lists:
- People offering false hope to save the world – How many voices out there are telling us what we have to do to save ourselves and our planet, or voices telling us there is no God so we have to fend for ourselves.
- Political upheaval – Lately we've trodden on Chinas and France's toes – what will that mean next? Leaders calling leaders liars… Wars of words and threats of war with even more damaging weapons.
- Natural disasters – some would say man made natural disasters threatening the world with extinction. Whatever you make of the gathering in Glasgow we have a problem that isn't going away.
In a way these signs have always been there in every generation. But we are meant to read these signs in our own way and day so that we are always alert and ready for what is to come.
"Be alert but not alarmed" was what we were told a few years ago when we were afraid of terrorist attack. Be alert but don't panic or despair – Jesus would say too.
This old world is not rolling on forever.
There will be an end to it.
But in Jesus mind and world view its not an end in the sense of "caput" or total disaster….
It will be an end in the sense of "end goal" or "conclusion" or "finish", the "completing" of something God started even if we have damaged it along the way and even if something humans do or don't do brings the whole house down around our ears!
Jesus says these uncomfortable signs really the beginning of birth-pains.
Now obviously I don't know birth pains firsthand.
I have only watched on in fear from the sidelines and my only help was to act as a punching bag and a stress ball for Carolyn to squeeze the life out of!
Birth pains can be pretty rough going for everyone in the room! But I have seen the end result – three times, and from where I stood it was definitely worth it!
A new life
A child
A future beyond myself
Jesus says to his disciples:
What you experience and see in a world falling apart and in a church that isn't what it once was are signs not of a disastrous end to everything, but the contractions that will give birth to something God is about to create, a new beginning to a new future.
What you and the world may be going through may be painful and fearful and self-induced by human sin (sorry about the pun) but there is hope, a new day and a new creation on the horizon.
Jesus said these words before he died. Jesus, the place where we meet God, know God, experience God – he is really our the temple, the place where God is real for us!
And his body was about to be destroyed on the cross. In a sense the temple would come down on Good Friday – in fact the curtain separating everyone in the temple from the holy place where God was supposed to be was torn apart when Jesus died. Hebrews 10 reminded us today that the body of Jesus was the torn temple curtain giving us access to God, and he is also the priest who takes us through the curtain into God's presence in heaven itself!
The broken lifeless Jesus would and did rise to life, to a new beginning, a forever life to which we would be invited and joined when we were washed in our baptism. Go home and read the Hebrews passage again today! It's why we are encouraged to keep on meeting together in places like this!
So the agony of the cross was worth it for Jesus and us
The birth pains of a dying breaking apart world and a battered and bruised church will be worth it for us!
These days are the contractions before birth.
The pain before the gain.
The times we are in are not for lamenting and despairing but reading the signs wisely and living faithfully. Living like expectant mothers. The sharper the pain the nearer the delivery!
For Christians the sharper the pain the nearer the time when we will be with Christ forever.
Jesus says you may experience a world falling apart in all sorts of ways and a church being torn down too.
Don't live in denial about that.
But don't live in despair about that either.
Don't be deceived by those who claim you and this world can save yourselves or that they can.
Don't be alarmed, rather be alert, watch out, be on your guard, stand fir
In the verses following Jesus calls his disciples to
"preach the gospel to all nations"
– the good news of his saving help, his forgiving love and forever promises
Most Saturdays I get on my bike
One street I ride past is called Hope St
Underneath it says "no through road"
Many out there experience the signs Jesus talked about with no real hope. They fear that all roads offering hope might be a dead end. Hence the fear out there, the noise and the panic.
I saw a bit of Bert Newton's funeral on Friday and on Tuesday it will be Russel Ebert's. Pillars of entertainment and sport – now gone…
What does that mean for them and us? People wonder.
At funerals we are conscious that everything we have built for ourselves and constructed about ourselves will be dismantled so what does that mean, what next?
Two radio jocks asked that as I was waking up one morning during the week. They were trying to get their heads around these deaths.
"How can you believe in an all powerful God if these great people are taken?" one asked. The other (who had been to a Lutheran school) said nothing and switched to an ad break.
What would you have said?
You who have sat in God's house like this one for years?
What is the good news you would have offered them at that moment?
They are out there and they are wondering…
They don't want false hope either, they don't want to be deceived either.
So how would you tell them about the hope you have in Jesus that is not a dead end but the way through to heaven itself!?
The way that Jesus is.
Our hope is in Jesus and he is the good news of God we share as the way through these times we are in. Our message is not that "the end is near" but that "God is near" and near in Jesus. In him the past is forgiven, God is present with us in it all, and the end is not something to be feared, but will be the beginning of forever with him.
So here we meet today in this magnificent building.
Nothing is permanent in this life, our buildings or ourselves.
I am not foolish enough to predict its demise and I am not going to tell you what to do with it.
I am looking forward to seeing what you will do with it, for the sake of the gospel, your witness to Christ to searching people. We make our decisions for the sake of those who need to hear the good news of Jesus in the face of the bad news in the world.
We are here in this place today at the end of the church year, a time that puts everything in God's perspective and ultimately the return of Christ.
It's a time when we ask what matters?
What will stand and who will stand God's coming judgement?
When our Lord returns he won't be looking to see if this or any other church building is still standing but if we are still standing – in faith hope and love, the loving mercy of God we have come to know in Jesus the place where we truly and personally meet God himself.
God bless you as you give witness to him in here, whatever in here looks like in the future.
And most importantly as you stand for him and give witness to him out there, as you live and breather serve and speak out there in a world falling apart as people who are already part of his new beginning …
Bishop David Altus
Job 42
'I know that you can do all things;
no purpose of yours can be thwarted.
3 You asked, "Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge?"
Surely I spoke of things I did not understand,
things too wonderful for me to know.
4 'You said, "Listen now, and I will speak;
I will question you,
and you shall answer me."
5 My ears had heard of you
but now my eyes have seen you.
6 Therefore I despise myself
and repent in dust and ashes.'
Real complaint to God, brings real clarity from God.
Now Job sees. He sees his own limit, weakness, lack of power and certainty and he sees God's unlimited goodness, power and commitment to the world. Job sees God as Giver: everything the Lord lists here is gift – gift for life, gift for human life, gift for Job.
In Job's suffering the sun rises, the clouds form the rain comes the stars shine the wind moves and life is sustained for Job.
Nothing has changed when it comes to the gracious sustaining gifting of God ,,, Paul says;
Romans 12:3
3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you
What are you doing with the trouble you face? What are you doing with the trouble you feel? What are you doing with the trouble in this troubled world that seems to be heaping up on us all? Where is faith in this giving God; this man for others,; Jesus; his giving, his sacrificing, his calling, his gifting and guiding by the Spirit?
Here's God's direction for you in your suffering from a man who knows suffering (Job) and a Saviour who suffered it all for you (Jesus)…..
Repent and be restored
Complain to Jesus. He knows the pain and the triumph through it.
Listen to Jesus. Our complaint is turned to praise. Our doubt to trust; our suffering to joy again. Paul puts it well …
Romans 11:33-35
33 Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and[i] knowledge of God!
How unsearchable his judgments,
and his paths beyond tracing out!
34 'Who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has been his counsellor?'[j]
35 'Who has ever given to God,
that God should repay them?'[k]
36 For from him and through him and for him are all things.
To him be the glory for ever! Amen.
Repent and be restored.
Why? Because that is where the 'gold ' is'.
The gold? To be a person for others. To be a person of prayer for others.
For instance, Philippians 2 says: Have the same attitude that Jesus had.
Even though he was God, he didn't hang on to his glory, but humbled himself – the Greek word means "emptied" himself and became a human being so that he could suffer and die in our place. Following Jesus involves having an attitude that we find hard to have by nature – to turn the other cheek, go the extra distance, do things for others even if it's not 'fair' for you, to forgive people – always, and to love and serve people whether we think they deserve it or not.
So we come back to Jesus' question: "Are you also going to leave?" We'll come back to Peter' reply in a minute.
We love this verse from the Psalms, but it can easily become nothing but words if we don't allow the Word to do what it says it does:
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.
In 1 Thessalonians 2:13 Paul writes:
And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.
So we come back to our Hebrew texts, which don't need any further commentary from me. Listen to them – read them – carefully! The Holy Spirit wants you to hear them clearly today:
Hebrews 2:1 – We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away.
And the second verse Is Hebrews 3:1 – Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus . . .
And I also want to highlight Paul's words to Timothy in his first letter – ask the Spirit to speak to you through these words:
But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.
So we come back to the question that Jesus asked his first twelve disciples, and now asks each one of us: "Are you also going to leave?"
Can you answer that question confidently and boldly today? If you can, please give Jesus your answer now, in Peter's words.
"Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God."
Job 42:10ff
10 After Job had prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before. 11 All his brothers and sisters and everyone who had known him before came and ate with him in his house. They comforted and consoled him over all the trouble the Lord had brought on him, and each one gave him a piece of silver[a] and a gold ring.
12 The Lord blessed the latter part of Job's life …..
16 ….Job lived a hundred and forty years; he saw his children and their children to the fourth generation. 17 And so Job died, an old man and full of years.
Repent and be restored.
Job finally learnt to pray!
10 "After (all of this) Job prayed for his friends…."
Repent and be restored.
Job suffered and he complained to the Lord, listened to the Lord and acknowledged the Lord's authority and goodness in it all and was restored by Lord so he could truly be a man for others.
Same for you.
Sunday | 8:45am 10:30am |
Wednesday (1st + 3rd of Month) |
10:00am |


text:
First up, a short geography lesson! For as much as I love to travel, I have always been terrible at geography (and history for that matter). I swear I must've somehow slept through those classes. No worries- I'm catching up now! Provence is short form for the entire region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. It is a really large region in Southeastern France that extends from the Rhone River in the West to the Italian border in the East. It is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea in the South and the French Alps in the North.
Within Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur are the two destinations of the second and third legs of our trip: Provence & the Côte d'Azur. Often when people mention Provence, they are referring to the Luberon. The Luberon is in central Provence and is composed of three mountain ranges. This is the area that has become famous for its countryside of vineyards, orchards, and "perched" hill-top villages. The Luberon villages are the part of Provence that I wanted to spend our 3 days exploring!
Day 1– Transportation
Early Monday morning we took a high-speed TGV train from Paris to Avignon. We traveled up to 300 km an hour and what would've taken us 7.5 hours by car took us under 2 hours and 45 minutes by TGV! When we arrived, we picked up our rental car right outside of the train station.
We headed straight for Pernes-les-Fontaines because it was 10 minutes from our next stop and I really wanted to check out the concept store La Maison Pernoise. It did not disappoint and I came home with a beautiful black teak bowl I'll always treasure!
Isle Sur La Sorgue
Filled with unreal, crystal-clear green streams and canals, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is 'the island on the Sorgue' because the town is surrounded by the river. Many refer to the town as the "Venice of France". It's also known for its antiquaires (antique shops) and numerous water wheels and footbridges that take you over the water. We had lunch on the patio at Le Jardin du Quai where we tried monkfish! Josh loved it. I was not a fan. Ha!
The source of the river Sorgue is in nearby Fontaine de Vaucluse. The spring feeding the river comes from deep underground and is always 55 degrees F. Nobody really knows how deep- Jacques Cousteau couldn't even find the bottom!
Uzes felt like a hidden town. The buildings are all made of white limestone. Since the town is a car-free zone, everyone walks everywhere and it's wonderful. We saw Tour Fenestrelle, a bell tower attached to church of St-Théodorit.
15 minutes outside of Uzes we explored Pont du Gard. It's what remains of an ancient Roman aqueduct bridge built in the first century AD to carry water over 50km (31 mi) to the Roman colony of Nemausus. It was incredibly impressive!
Saint Remy de Provence
Our hotel for our 3 nights in Provence was Le Saint Remy in Saint Remy de Provence. Both the hotel and grounds are gorgeous. The rooms are described as casual gypsy chic and I agree completely. We got unpacked and freshened up for dinner outside at the hotel.
Day 2
Early the next morning we headed out on the longest drive of our trip as we made our way east across Provence to Gordes, Moustiers Sainte Marie, and the Gorges du Verdon. The two and a half hour drive was definitely worth it!
This is probably a good time to say that while they drive on the same side of the road as us in the US, driving in France is not without its challenges. The tolls and roundabouts are plentiful. Many of the streets are narrow and don't appear to fit one car very easily, let alone accommodate two going opposite directions. And to find a straight road is an anomaly. Also, always find the town parking lot upon entering a new town. Just trust me- this is your best bet for parking! Sometimes they're free, but often you park and pay a few euros at an automated parking meter somewhere within the lot.
Gordes is arguably the most popular village in the Luberon and it was easily one of my favorites! It has officially been named one of The Most Beautiful Villages in France. It's a compact hilltop town at the foot of the Vaucluse Mountains. Most of the villages in the Luberon have a Market Day. We were lucky enough to be there for Gordes' Market Day so we headed there first. This is where I learned how to use an ATM in France as I ran out of euros and some vendors don't take cards! When we arrived many vendors were still setting up and it was quiet, but when we left 2 hours later the streets were full of vendors AND tourists.
On our way to the next town, we came upon the most beautiful stretch of lavender fields that had yet to be harvested. Like many others, we pulled over on the side of the road to take a closer look!
You drive through the stunning village of Moustiers Sainte Marie on your way to the Gorges du Verdon. It is seriously straight out of a storybook and is easily in my top three towns we visited in Provence! The village was built on platform terraces a hundred or so meters up the side of a limestone cliff. Above the town, a gold-painted star hangs on a chain suspended between two cliffs. According to the legend, in the 10th century during the Crusades, the knight Bozon de Blacas was held prisoner by the Saracens. He vowed to hang a star over his village if he was able to return. No one knows how the star was originally hung, but it's been replaced several times since then, most recently by helicopter. We had lunch in town at Les Tables du Cloitre. Our cheese and charcuterie boards, local beers and Coke were delicious!
Gorges du Verdon
Gorges du Verdon is the deepest gorge in France and is one of the must-see natural wonders of central Provence. It's a river canyon believed to have been formed during the Jurassic period. The cold water is a beautiful turquoise color. There is no road up the gorge, but you can road trip around the rim, hike in and out of the gorge, or go out on the water in the lower end. We chose to go out on the water! You can rent a canoe, pedal boat or kayak, but each is limited. We parked at Pont du Galetas, stood in line, and booked a pedal boat for 2 hours for 40 euros and we were off! *As a sidenote- I'm not the greatest swimmer and knowing that the gorge is up to half a mile deep, I wanted a nice, balanced, safe pedal boat. Josh wanted a kayak. He said we weren't senior citizens and promised I wouldn't drown. Fortunately, when we got there he saw there were tons of people our age in pedal boats and I won. I'm just glad the outing didn't end as a future Dateline episode. Put this on your bucket list immediately.
We made our way back to our hotel to freshen up, then dinner was outside in Saint Remy de Provence on the gorgeous terrace of Le Moulin de Sophie. After, we walked back to the hotel for drinks and dessert.
Day 3
Before heading back to Gordes for breakfast, we made our way to Maubec for our Covid PCR tests. We were second in line. We showed our passports and they entered our info. Tests were free!! Then we went into a second tent for the nasal swab. They went up SO much further than either of us had experienced back home, and did BOTH sides. It was uncomfortable, but a small price to pay to be able to travel.
Breakfast was back in Gordes on the terrace at La Bastide de Gordes. This is a beautiful hotel, but anyone can make reservations to eat there. The breakfast was a huge buffet with made to order crepes and eggs. I are my crepes with berry and fig preserves, then we drove to the town viewpoint.
Just outside of Gordes is the Senanque Abbey with its gorgeous lavender fields. You've likely seen this image on puzzles. It was built in the 12th century for Cistercian monks, who still live there as it still functions as a monastery.
Walking into Roussilon felt like entering another world. The town is literally orange, red, yellow, and pink. The ochre the land is made of is a natural pigment that was used in paints and came from the ochre quarry that was once one of the most significant ochre deposits in the world. The town hall square looks like it belongs on a postcard. We walked the 30 minute Ochre Trail. It was hot so we ruled out the hour long trail!
You'll know when you're near Menerbes because there is a sea of cherry trees and vineyards below the village. This town was full of beautiful arches and landscaping. Lunch was at Chez Auzet.
A spiral of cobbled streets wind their way up to the medieval 12th century church Vieille Eglise that sits at the highest point in the village. After getting a view of the town, we headed to Chateau la Canorgue for wine tasting. This is the winery from the movie "A Good Year." We left with a red and a rosé! I can't wait to pop them open when I'm missing Provence.
Lourmarin isn't one of the perched, hill-top villages of Provence, but it was still gorgeous. The café culture is huge here and many near the center of the village spill out onto the cobbled streets with tables everywhere! There's also an impressive belfry that's part of a medieval castle at the highest point of the village. Dinner was at L'Insolite.
For years when I dreamed of visiting France, Paris was all I thought about. 13 villages later, I can honestly say what a shame it would've been to miss this charming, magical part of the country!
La Bastide de Gordes (Gordes)
Les Tables du Cloitres (Moustiers Sainte Marie)
Gordes (especially on Market Day!)
Gorges du Verdon
If France interests you, I was a podcast guest on Join Us In France and hope you'll give it a listen on your next commute or laundry day! You can follow the link below, or use a podcast app on your device: just search for the "Join Us In France" podcast. https://joinusinfrance.com/episode/anniversary-in-paris-and-provence/
Curious what I packed for France? Read about it here.
Read my Paris City Guide here!
And find our French Riviera Road Trip details here!