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Category: Natural C-section Amsterdam
946 Days
On Friday we stopped breastfeeding.
946 days.
31 months and 1 day.
2 years and 7 months and 1 day.
One of the longest, most rewarding, and most fulfilling jobs I have ever had. Yes : I said "jobs" – because whilst it was wonderful and tender and wrought with hormones and body doubt and body gratitude and self doubt and self care and self neglect and ideological ambition and realistic set backs and unwaivering perseverance and effortless ease and sublime miraculous grace : it was work. Holy work. I do see it as me having chosen to take on a job to nourish you, my child. A job commissioned by nature to fulfill as long as we both enjoyed the process and relationship of nourishing and nurturing / drinking and receiving. It was nourishment and nurturing of a complex and multifaceted nature. A journey and a relationship shrouded in blissful connection and sometimes underpinned by deep struggle. A journey that has naturally ended at the perfect moment; for both of us.
I still can't quite believe that it is over; and to be honest it isn't quite "over" as we are still talking about it between us: still touching Ninnie and feeling together how Ninnie is changing, laughing together at the incredulity of there being no more milk drinking. Ninnie is your name for my milky breasts – you know the word "breasts" but refer to my breasts (still now a few days later) as Ninnie.
If anyone would have told me when I was a few weeks pregnant that I would breastfeed you for this long I would have laughed in their face(!!!) I thought I would breastfeed for 9-12 months until you transitioned into food, and didn't need the calories anymore….but then there you were, and my natural instincts blossomed and my rational mind was convinced after doing the research….and there you were: relishing the milk. Loving your safe haven from the exciting world, your body growing and flourishing so powerfully, your immunity and your health so strong – your desire to continue so palpable as each and every time you arrived at the breast your body relaxed and your nervous system reset.
We breastfed through a lot. We breastfed through our mutual recovery from a Caesarean birth after a long labour; for a few days we supplemented here and there as my milk supply came through – and despite the gruelling pumping schedule we breastfed through it. We breastfed through your Upper Lip Tie and for 9 weeks we breastfed with a nipple shield. We breastfed through the protracted death of my granny; your great grandmother. We breastfed through your first teeth, and your first mild fever. We breastfed through the arrival of each and every tooth that arrived – and at 12 months you had 14 teeth…each one bringing fresh chafing for my resilient nipples. we breastfed through the second level three day doula training I attended when you were 12 weeks old – your loving aunty bringing you at breaks and lunchtime. We breastfed through the flashbacks I started to have as part of the PTSD that was triggered in those first few months post partum; we breastfed through the ensuing migraines. We breastfed through a move to the UK for a few months; through the emotional rollercoasted that turned out to be. We breastfed through our happy return to Amsterdam. We breastfed through the first student births I attended, we breastfed through the "interuption to service" that the births and the hospital internships brought. You even had the privilege of breastfeeding from a friend whilst I was at the first full overnight birth. We breastfed through your first virus and your salmonella. We breastfed through your learning to walk and your increased sleep talking – thankfully no sleepwalking yet. We breastfed through the uncertain months of the beginning of self employment; me often reassured that whilst I wasn't able to afford to put organic food and line caught salmon on our table as I had wanted – at least I could still offer you the breast -and that was as close to organic as it gets right?! We breastfed through your start at nursery, we breastfed through your decision to use the potty and the toilet. We breastfed though 2 years and 7 months of single parenting; and whilst a lot of parents in partnerships may not understand that there is a difference…that is no mean feat!
So how did it all come to an end?
On Friday night as we went about settling down for sleep after stories and tooth brushing; you said "Big Ninnie first" and out of nowhere I heard myself say "It is almost time to stop breastfeeding Jasper. You are a really big boy now, you can do so much for yourself, and Ninnie's job is done – you don't need to drink Ninnie anymore." Your concern was initially mainly if you could drink from Ninnie tonight – naturally – your primary concern at 2y 7m is the present and immediate moment and the moment playing out in such a way that pleases you!!!
I cherished you as much as you would let me whilst you drank. I stroked your toddler head, your long blonde hair – totally different from the dark dark brown head of hair you were born with. I felt the size of your head; the solidity of it. I reminisced back to the first days of our journey when despite weighing 4.448kg at birth; you felt so tiny and fragile in my arms next to my blossoming bouncing balloon like breasts. I felt the full length of your little but solid toddler body next to mine and realised happily that you too will probably remember our breastfeeding journey in the longer term. This makes me so happy.
I have whispered into your ears at various points in the days since with tears in my eyes and my throat choked; "Ninnie will always love you – even though there is no more milk for you to drink; you can still put your head on the soft roundness and remember all the lovely milk you have enjoyed."
The next night as we turned out the light after stories I invited you into my arm for a cuddle and you said; "Can I have Ninnie?" I smile in the half light (expecting the worst) and say "Oh no – we have stopped drinking Ninnie remember?" Tired after a lovely long day you say; "Oh yeah!" and lie back in your sheepskin.
Falling asleep the next afternoon; you are fidgetty and can't get comfortable. You lie vertically on my body, your head over my heart, your arm outstretched over "Big Ninnie" (my right one) and fall asleep like that. I cherish the closeness; my heart hurting for you a little. Is it my projection or is this you searching for reassurance?
Last night you tried again – with a knowing and cheeky grin as you ask; "Can I have a little drink?" I laugh and say "Noooooo – the milk is gone now…."
"A tiny drink? A really really short drink?" you venture.
I reply with a clear voice defying my mental uncertainty; "Oh that would be so nice wouldn't it; but Ninnie doesn't have milk anymore – feel how wobbly they are now! They are very different now…." I'm half wondering if I should actually offer you some but the dread of the feeling of the dwindling milk being drawn up through the already very different feeling ducts persuades me not to(!)
I am so PROUD of you that you seem able to navigate this change with such confidence. Seeking out affirmations of our love and attachment, yes, but in what seems to be a secure manner. Our relationship is changing again – again! Oh how the wonderous journey of parenthood embodies the only certainhood we have in life: that nothing is certain – that nothing lasts forever.
In these last days of our breastfeeding journey (is it appropriate to say "The Wrap Up"?!?! Too soon maybe?!?!) I have laughed, I have cried, I have massaged and soothed my breasts in deep loving gratitude, I have reflected a lot on what the breastfeeding journey has meant for me, what I hope it has meant for you, and what it has meant for us as a mother and son. There are so many memories – some fleeting and funny, some raw and intense, some euphoric, some I have shared with others, some that will simply remain between you and I; and some that I hold close in my own heart just for me. It is also incredibly beautiful; that on the day that our journey stopped – the breastfeeding journey of a dear dear friend and her absolutely scrumptious newborn daughter began. The cycle continues!
I want to end with gratitude. Gratitude for you and your unwaivering determination from just minutes old, gratitude for your grunting and sucking and stroking and patting and burping and slurping, gratitude for my breasts and my body, gratitude for the healing nature of our "successful" breastfeeding journey after a birth journey that wasn't what I had hoped for us, and last but not least – deep gratitude for all the people around us. The women, the dearest friends and family, the birthworkers and teachers, and the supporters who made our journey possible with their glasses of water, the delicious nibbles and snacks, the warming tea, the hand on the shoulder, the gentle reminders about techniques in those early days. Gratitude for their understanding when everything stopped so that I could sit down and nourish you; the knowing loving glances in cafes; the spoken words of tenderness, encouragement and support on the days when I was hollow eyed and "over it"; and everybody and every act of support in little and big ways since: THANK YOU.
What kind of birth is a doula best for?
I have been pretty busy these last few weeks fighting and getting over some seasonal bacteria(!), coaching my coaching clients through their year reviews and assisting them in planning ahead for 2017, getting my own business goals and business tools in place for 2017, and meeting with new and current clients. Two points came up in all four new client meetings that I thought would be great to share here in a blog post and offer clarification on…
- "I didn't think a doula would support (xyz) type of birth"
- "I have the impression that a lot of doulas have some kind of agenda"
These concerns always worry me a little – because I wonder how many women shrug off the idea of having a doula because they just don't think their birthing preferences are in keeping with the type of birth a doula will support?
In my opinion (obviously as a professional doula in Amsterdam; I'm a little biased here!) even one woman disregarding the possibility of doula support because of that uncertainty is a crying shame!
Let's get clear on each point by turning the statements into questions:
- What type of birth is a doula best for?
- What kind of birth agenda does a doula have?
Q1 – What type of birth is a doula best for?
Answer: Every type of birth!
Whatever type of birth you want – a doula is a good choice for extra support. More often than not; your midwife or gynaecologist will not be able to stay by your side the whole time. A doula can be with you (& your partner), or just outside your door (should you wish to be alone) from the point you need her until a couple of hours after the birth of your baby. A doula can be by your side in the theatre as you have a planned Csection, she can hold your hand over the pool side as you have your baby in the birthing pool at the Geboortecentrum (birthing centre), she can support you and your partner through an induction at the hospital, she can kneel down and hold your left hand as your partner holds your right hand and look up at you in your eye to reassure you as the anaesthetist administers your epidural, or she can be sat behind you on the baarkruk (birthing stool) as your husband catches your baby in your bedroom. A great doula has experience in all types of birth!
Q2 – What kind of birth agenda does a doula have?
Answer: A doula has an agenda to support you and your partner in navigating your pregnancy, birth and post partum period (particularly the first 6 weeks) in the way that you want to be supported by her.
She has no agenda of her own other than how best to support you in preparing for, in having and in recovering from the birth that you want; supporting your birth (& parenting) agenda. Of course a doula can offer helpful pointers about research, direct you to support groups or webinars or articles that may be of interest to you, hold your hand as you say yes or no to any change of plan in any birth setting, and most importantly: do all of the above and be with you in an unconditional, reassuring and non judgemental way.
Let me emphasise this in bold typeface and by colouring it purple: her agenda is supporting your agenda.
All this said; there are doulas who do express preferences for a certain approach to birthing or to parenting, and usually they will be upfront about what type of birthing or parenting that is. If you feel that doesn't match your chosen direction then rest assured there are many other doulas out there to choose from; doulas are not necessarily one size fits all.
To be clear about my approach as a doula from our very first phone call or meeting:
I will listen to you.
I will ask you questions, I will offer sign posts to helpful information about studies, alternative and possibilities; I will encourage and empower you to make informed choices.
I will be there at your side to support you – whatever your choices – and I hope you will never feel judged by me.
I will offer unconditional support around you and your birthing space, wherever that space may be.
I will support you in the way that you decide you need me to support you, and it may be that the mode of support you need changes along the journey – I can handle unexpected change and I will remain by your side unconditionally.
This is your journey. It is an honour that you ask me to be a part of it.
Are we unwittingly perpetuating fear of C-sections; and contributing to birth trauma outcomes by doing so???
You've all read the headlines, the sensationalist introduction to link to new studies on the latest medical research, the byline underneath the headline:
"Moms beware! C-section may harm your baby's 'concentration' "
"Mother's agony as anaesthetic wore off during C-section"
"Are women losing ability to give birth naturally? They're relying too much on C-sections and drugs, says expert"
"The mothers made to feel guilty about their C-sections by OTHER MOTHERS"
"A study revealing the prolongation of labour, thanks to epidurals, has been useful in identifying the iatrogenesis – doctor induced harm – at the root of the cesarean problem"
"BIRTH IS THE KEY in breastfeeding: a natural birth unlocks breastfeeding potential and so much more"
"Induced labor may double the odds of C-section"
"Cesarean birth without labor associated with breastfeeding problems say two new studies"
"C-section babies more likely to become overweight"
Then we have the commonly rolled out "statistics" on how having a doula attend your birth means a "40% decrease in the risk of having a cesarean" or how "One-to-one midwifery care reduces C-sections and improves health care", and the ever so helpful article entitled: "How to reduce your risk of having a Cesarean", followed by a provocative article asking "Once a Csection, always a Csection???"….I saw that one and thought of the brave, courageous ladies who come to share their hopes and fears in the VBAC Support Group and thought "oh dear – how would you be feeling about your planned VBAC after reading that tagline?"
There I was, scrolling away on my Facebook page the other day – and the newest well intended article about how Csection babies seem to have a higher chance of having Autism, ADHD, obesity related illness, a bad temper*, longer eyelashes*, multiple nipples*, a recurrent ingrowing toenail* and a tendency to smile later* than babies born via the vaginal canal popped up in my news feed. Following my own positive experience of a C-section and subsequently well documented break up with the Natural Birth Movement these articles do intrigue me and I almost always click in to read them, review the science, consider the message and absorb what I can to support my son's health. I read the article and noticed my mood had worsened. So I observed the feelings, felt them. Fear, worry, dismay, guilt….and then the thought struck me:
"Are these articles doing more harm than good – are we perpetuating fear of Cesarean birth and contributing to birth trauma by doing so ???"
First of all it is important to say: I don't know the answer. I don't believe that there is a binary answer to the question. I'm questioning whether or not I should even pose the question publically or just ponder this further alone?! As a disclaimer I will also point out that I have no science to back up this question or subsequent questions.
The criteria for experiencing birth trauma are well clarified by the Birth Trauma Association with a very clear list of potential contributary topics which contribute to birth trauma.
- High levels of medical intervention
- Traumatic or emergency deliveries, e.g. emergency caesarean section
These are two very clear very distinct definitions from a list of sixteen identified contributary factors. How do these events lead to trauma in some mothers but not others? They are not unusual birth outcomes. Is it the physical trauma of the body within these birth circumstances leading to a psychological trauma, or these birth circumstances having been feared/dreaded/denied as a possibility by the mother/never considered as an option meaning that when these circumstances unfold in this manner; the subsequent experience is therefore psychologically traumatic? It's a bit of a chicken vs egg anomaly. How could we ever really study the impact of having read articles denouncing the perils of Csections on any women, let alone a wide ranging statistically meaningful group of women? Perhaps the only thing we can really do is to be conscious of the question as we encounter another article with a shocking headline?
When it comes to the notion of birth trauma and headlines like these contributing to birth trauma; the more comprehensive question would be
"By repeatedly using sensationalist and confrontational headlines when we publish these studies and their findings regarding birth by Cesarean are we:
a) setting women up with irrational fear of a procedure that sometimes becomes inevitable in an emergency?
b) paving the way for great disappointment in not "achieving" the optimal spontaneous vaginal birth?
c) laying the foundations for trauma by inherently invalidating and dismissing many women's experience of birth by cesarean as suboptimal? "
I certainly don't believe that if we are perpetuating the fear of Cesarean birth in this way that we are doing so consciously – although unfortunately I have seen well meaning birth workers commenting on how "graphically violent" an image of a baby being born by Csection was (which seems a little counter productive to the notion of unconditional birth support).
I read the research, studies and their findings keenly (despite the way the headlines are worded) as a birth professional too; as I stand for informed choice. Informed choice in childbirth should be fundamental, always – whether the choice comes in an emergency situation, a semi emergency situation or even as a choice earlier in pregnancy. I can see and have seen that risks, benefits and options are not always explored fully with expectant or labouring families by medical professionals; and so I can see that by using sensationalist headlines information comes to parents through other channels which otherwise they may not encounter. New research which is consistently being conducted means that sometimes people who made a certain set of choices a few years ago, may well discover something that would affect their decision were they given the opportunity to make the same choice again now; sometimes those people are deeply effected by these articles too. I hope their concerns can be somewhat allayed by reminding them that we do our best with the knowledge that we have at the time.
Above and beyond being crucial in women having all the information they need to make informed choices for their families, the publication and sharing of the research is important and meaningful in the evolution of how we collectively approach birth as mothers, fathers, birth workers, health care providers and policy makers; how medicine and medical protocol advances; and how we can best support our babies' health post partum, throughout childhood and onwards into adulthood; catering to the specific needs which are unquestionably sometimes a little different to babies who are born via the vaginal canal. This is wonderful as we are actually able to develop practices like seeding the microbiome of the mother's vaginal canal into the newborn baby's body post Csection, in order to best replicate some of the benefits of vaginal birth. For more information on this practice head over here. It means that the procedure of the C-section itself can be adapted to offer the mother and baby some of the psychological and physical benefits of spontaneous vaginal birth by performing "Natural C-sections" or at the very least "Gentle C-sections". For a personal account of a Natural C-sectionby a mother who took part in a study currently being conducted by UCLH in the UK please head over here.
It does seems clear to me though, that some of the aforementioned headlines could be perceived to be perpetuating fear of Csections; intentionally or not.
The question does then broach the bigger picture of the presentation of birth within mainstream media, and the notion of birth as a feminist issue (although birth as a feminist issue deserves it's own book – let alone a blog post!). I was reminded of the visual presentation of health crisis in the media recently when my beloved grandfather had a heart attack and said a number of times to the emergency healthcare providers; "I can't believe I've had a heart attack – I wasn't rolling around on the floor groaning in agony with a puce face at any point". Women's impressions of birth from mainstream media are often equally misguided, and can range anywhere from "I gave birth on the toilet – I didn't even know I was pregnant" to "my waters broke as I left the expensive department store, I gave birth in the taxi on the way to the hospital into the taxi drivers hands" to "I fainted in the street and was rushed into hospital via blue light straight into theatre to be put under general anaesthetic and my baby was delivered by emergency C-section". Certainly any of these situations are possible: but all fairly unlikely. The reality is that there are many opportunities for you as parents to ask questions, discuss your desires for your birth plan, discuss and negotiate the "What Ifs?" or grey areas of birth preferences, and to sometimes even say "I hear that the protocol states we ought to do something to further the progression of my labour right now; but I do not want to and am not ready to agree to any intervention". Indeed when looking at the reality of pregnancy and planning birth preferences; there is usually very little 'high drama' to attract big audiences or a large readership(!)
What can we do with this question? I'm not even sure: doula it? Hold space around it? Consider that client we know who is currently going through the fog of PND or PTSD after having experienced a birth outcome she wasnt anticipating? Consider the heightened intuition of the client who is 39 weeks pregnant and who we know who is digging deep for faith in her body as she prepares to VBAC after having stalled last time she laboured at 3cm? Consider holding space for those clients and others like them before we repost the article unthinkingly and unquestioningly?
It feels important to me to ask the question of myself and the communication I contribute to the discussion around birth; specifically via Caesarean birth.
And so in the name of desensationalising Caesarean birth, in the name of anecdotal evidence to allay your fears about the shocking headlines telling you the dangers and suboptimal outcomes of Caesarean birth: let me finish by telling you the last chapter of a beautiful birth story of a mummy and baby boy I know very well (ahem ahem blush blush) who ended up meeting eachother in the bright, blue, loving and gentle theatre of the OLVG through a stargate wound as opposed to having met in their living room after the full journey through the vaginal canal.
It wasn't what they had planned.
It was exactly what the mother had feared the most.
But it was beautiful, truly beautiful.
It was deeply healing.
It was what she needed, despite having had a doula, an independent midwife and a best friend as birth attendants to try to avoid it.
It was a whole host of things underpinned by a whole host of emotions; but it was their unique, wonderful birth story.
She experienced that heart burstingly ecstatic moment right there in the theatre.
The wonder.
The bonding.
The magical miracle of birth, albeit a different kind of magic to the magic she'd been hoping for but magical all the same.
Breast feeding worked out.
The wound healed perfectly and quickly with no infection or complications.
And to date there are no health issues to report in her son, partly because she reads all the articles she can on the health impact of Caesarean birth, and makes the choices that feel right for her and her family in order to best mitigate any "potential long term health impact".
Words can't always express the emotion of birth; but I believe these photos capture some of them – a big big thanks to Claudia Van Dijk (midwife from vive: vroedvrouwen in verbinding who took them.
*Please note* no studies currently prove any link between babies who are born via csection to having a higher chance of having: a bad temper, longer eyelashes, multiple nipples, a recurrent ingrowing toenail, or a tendency to smile later (you'll be glad to read).
I wish I had…
I wish I'd been more prepared…
I wish I had read more about what to expect…
I wish I'd known that I could say no…
I wish I had known that I could question their decisions…
I wish I'd made a birth plan…
I wish I'd asked them to follow the birth plan…
I wish I had known I didn't have to lie on the bed…
I wish I'd learnt how to breathe…
I wish I had waited before agreeing to induction…
I wish I'd known about the other choices…
I wish I had known I didn't have to have constant monitoring…
I wish I'd been more assertive…
I wish I had been given a clearer picture of the consequences…
I wish I had really understood what a doula does…
I wish I'd had a doula!
I hear so many different mothers and fathers saying these things or variation on these themes.
Even long before I became a coach and doula, people have told me their stories and secrets. I often joke that I have a sign on my forehead that says "Tell me the things you would normally never tell a stranger". I love hearing these details, despite them often being difficult or painful to hear. I believe passionately in people telling their stories, owning their stories, giving their stories space and time to heal, to evolve and to transform. Ultimately it is these eclectic stories I've heard that led me to become a coach.
It is a strange thing now as a doula though (perhaps it's also that I'm a mother) that I catch myself so often wishing that I could have met them sooner, told them about the myriad of wonderful birth workers in Amsterdam that they could choose from – that their regrets over how their birth unfolded or how their trauma occured could somehow have been less painful, less rueful. It's a nonsensical line of thinking though of course – because these experiences of birth; be they ecstatic, traumatic, blissful or agonising – have the power to reshape our lives and experiences and propel us into a new direction or simply propel us forward to begin to question the paradigms we had previously accepted without a second thought. And that is beautiful.
I've been privileged to have supported many second time mothers and fathers, and after having experienced a very different type of birth the second time round they say things laughing like "I wish every family could have a doula" or "I wish we had had a doula the first time" or "I wish every family could have the chance to prepare like we did this time around"
I previously wrote an article on "what a doula does" which goes into a little more comparative detail about what a doula can support you with compared to other people in the birth team, but I didn't speak of how doulas can offer so many different support options and how affordable a doula can be.
Obviously I can't speak for all other birth workers but I can speak for what I am able to offer aside from my doula support packages as stated here:
- Birth Planning Session: 2 hours discussing birth, labour, post partum and induction/interventions in detail. I leave you with a few birth planning templates and review the document with you a week or two later over the phone/email. €175 per couple.
- Best Birth Support Companion Ever: 2.5 hours teaching your birth partner "how to doula you" €175 per couple.
- Birth Story/ Birth Trauma Healing: 2 hours speaking, counselling and coaching through your previous birth experience and ending with body or energy work to finish the session. €150
And two last points:
- It is never too late to hire a doula! Don't be the one that says "I wish I'd gone for it and hired a doula"! I offer a last minute package (if I have availability) which is priced at €695 for one two hour prenatal appointment, being on call for you 24/7 from the moment of hiring, and one post natal appointment. I am even open to you keeping my phone number in your phone and if you end up in hospital thinking "right about now I would appreciate having someone here to support us" then try me – whatever the hour!
- To put the cost of full doula support into context, the Principal Doula Package will cost you less than €20 per week of pregnancy…doesnt it seem much more affordable when put like that?! Please see the testimonials page for more insight into how others have valued my services.
And the very last point(!) – my teachers Jennifer, Jacky and Joyce at JJ Doula Training have details of many student doulas who have completed the education with them but who are looking for experience – and a student doula support will cost between €200 – €350 in Amsterdam (level and experience dependent) for two or three prenatal appointments, birth support and post natal support. I'm happy to facilitate contact or you can reach out to them directly.
Feeling "connected" to baby during pregnancy
"Every orchestra has specific instruments and musicians, but you, the mother, are the conductor. You are writing your own symphony, you choose the music and the notes. If something is out of tune, you can change the music. You create the harmony. You are the maestro."
excerpt from The Greatest Pregnancy Ever: The Keys to the MotherBaby Bond Tracy Wilson Peters, CCCE, CLD, and Laurel Wilson, IBCLC, CCCE
As a doula in Amsterdam, I hear many confessions from pregnant women or women who have recently given birth. I say confessions because often it's as if they hear the word "Doula" and then decide to offload the thoughts they haven't dared to share with anyone else about pregnancy, or childbirth or the postpartum period. This isnt a new experience for me – I often wonder if I have a sign on my forehead that reads "Please share your most taboo thinking/intense life experiences/painful loss/heartfelt desire/dirty secrets with me"?!?!?! It's all good – I love hearing these untold pregnancy and birth stories!
A very common pregnancy confession (that sometimes women feel so guilty about that they don't dare to vocalise it) is that they don't or didn't feel very connected to baby.
Fortunately we are now very mindful of the fact that babies' consiousness does indeed develop in the uterus. Annie Murphy Paul gave an excellent TEDTalk on the matter, and the documentary What Babies Want explores this in a very convincing and heartfelt way – both great watches if you find you do want to explore the subject of babies' inutero consciousness (see also the links at the end of this blog).
As with much of our developing awareness though – this knowledge can be a double edged sword. Many pregnant mothers upon hearing that indeed baby's consciousness is there from almost the moment you see the extra line on the stick or hear the words "You're pregnant" become very concerned with making sure their unborn baby has only positive experiences within the uterus, and that she experiences as much love, connection and nurturing as possible before birth. Great! As long as it doesn't become a means to tell yourself that you are anything less than absolutely incredible for carrying a baby inside your womb.
"People keep asking if I'm enjoying the mother-baby connection and honestly I just don't know what that is supposed to feel like?"
"How do I connect with a baby that I can't see?"
"It's hard for me to feel loved up and connected to baby when I just feel like crap 82% of the time due to pregnancy tiredness!"
Other confessions along the same lines go
"I felt so sad so often during my first pregnancy – I was worried that when she was born she would be depressed",
"I just don't have time for this pregnancy – I'm running around after an eighteen month old who has just started running – I can't keep up with him let alone focus on this unborn baby"
You get the picture. Why are parents so hard on themselves?!?!
Here are six suggestions as a quick "How To Connect With Baby During Pregnancy"
- First thing in the morning or last thing at night. That lovely only half awake time when your eyes are probably closed, you feel way less self conscious and either the thought bubble (The Mind) is just about to switch on or off. As you're adjusting your body to rest or wakefulness take a moment to place your hands on your beautiful bump and maybe just begin by saying "Morning Baby" (or Goodnight!) No need to say it aloud – though no harm in doing so. Once you feel comfortable doing this – you may even like to spoon in to your partner and invite them to say a few words.
- Whilst doing something mundane or mind numbing. You're washing the dishes or brushing your teeth, dare i say it – maybe you're driving on a route you know like the back of your hand. This is also a great moment to decide to check in with how baby is feeling. Chances are you're relaxed and just in the moment – baby may already respond to this energy and have a little wriggle around – focus your attention on your womb, perhaps this feels more comfortable if you touch your belly with one hand to make contact. Tell baby what you're doing. Tell her it's boring! Tell her it's really not your favourite thing to do but that somehow it's quite relaxing anyway. Tell her what you did today. Tell her what you're doing later.
- Guided visualisation or meditation. As a coach and doula in Amsterdam I often suggest to clients who are looking to build meditation into their practice but who find it difficult to switch off that they have a look on Youtube for guided meditations to listen to on headphones. That would be a great place to start, there are lots of guided meditations out there to try, and many women report finding a lot of peace and relaxation from the Natal Hypotherapy and Hypnobirthing CDs. It is also important to say that it is very very common for you to go "to sleep" whilst listening to a guided meditation, especially whilst pregnant(!) forgive yourself for this – and be reassured that it is all going in anyway! EDIT: I have also since recorded a few prenatal/pregnancy visualisations and meditations here and here!
- Singing to baby. Something wonderful happens to us when we sing! We breathe differently, we breath deeper, our lungs expand more fully and our diaghpram needs to get to work to help us project our voices. If you are a power ballad singer in the car, if you are a musical star in the shower or if you're an arena filling singing chef in the kitchen – keep on singing – and just set the intention that the song is for baby. Having a song or two that you sing repetitively for baby during pregnancy can be a wonderful calming and reassuring tool for helping baby to feel safe and calm in the fourth trimester – and beyond. There is a truly beautiful anecdote from Penny Simkin (doula and doula educator extraordinaire) to be found here – enjoy!
- Going within: asking questions and listening. After having adopted a couple of the practices above – once you are able to recognise that you are connecting with baby in a deep and a meaningful way; then you may be ready to really take the contact with baby to the next level. Usually to really be able to pose questions and hear the answers it helps to be still and quiet. To be comfortable and feel safe. To know that time is stretching out ahead and you can really enjoy taking time to communicate with baby. Sitting down comfortably; if you are comfortable in the lotus position with your back straight and your spine aligned – great! Perhaps you're more comfortable sat on a chair – a straight and well supported spine, both feet on the ground, perhaps you've been really using the birthing ball and are able to sit with a straight well aligned spine, knees wide and below hips, feet stable and supportive in full contact with the ground. Begin by placing your right hand on your belly to make contact with baby, and your left hand on your heart centre (on your chest).Take three deep breaths and focus on dropping your consciousness from your head into your heart. Take another three breaths and set the intention to connect with baby. Notice the warmth of each hand, notice baby; is she still, does she move? Invite the heart to ask baby how she is feeling. Notice. Breathe. Notice. Allow the feelings/instincts and thoughts to come up and take shape. Try not to judge. The ego will get busy telling you this is crazy, telling you that you're imagining things. Just allow those thoughts; they too have their place. Ask again; 'what can I do to help you feel better'? Notice. Breathe. Notice. Allow. Ask if there is anything else that baby needs to communicate to you. Notice. Breathe. Notice. Allow. And finally, what do you want to communicate to baby? Share. Notice. Feel. Breathe. Notice. Allow. Before you open your eyes, move around and get back to your day – take some time, take space together, feel the gratitude, feel the peace, feel the calm. Then >slowly< come back to your body, open your eyes, stretch and pick up your day.
- You're always connected anyway….Remember this. Go about your day. Just be reassured that baby is listening, baby is feeling, baby is sentient, baby is connected to you; you are connected to baby – baby is within you. Baby is coming to earth, and earthside there is a whole range of emotion, of feelings, of experiences, of connection, of disconnection. Baby will get to taste it all. You are unequivocally connected to baby every second – waking or sleeping. And maybe that is enough for you to remember; actually you dont have to make a conscious effort to "connect with baby" because baby is connected. Let me say it again: you. dont. have. to. "DO". anything. Be aware of the connection. Don't scaremonger yourself about any "negative" experiences being "bad" for baby. By all means – focus as much as you can on the positives – beautiful if you can mainly be in this state, but if there are things going on in your life that are stressful, that are out of your control – let it go, try not to get hung up on it.
Here are a couple of other links for you to look into on the notion of mother-baby connection and evidence for it's positive impact on pregnancy, child bearing and the immeditate post partum period, if you have any to add or if you have any heart warming anecdotes to share on the topic: please comment below!
An interview with Bruce Lipton called "Happy Healthy Child: A Holistic Approach"
The inspiring Dr Christiane Northrup posted a wonderful blog about "Waiting for Baby" which covers some other beautiful visualisations.
Lastly: image credit unknown – I would love to attribute this beautiful image to it's rightful creator so please make contact if you know the artist.


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Women from all backgrounds are building standout careers at BCG. Judith is one of them, and she exemplifies the limitless potential of a culture that promotes employees solely based on their accomplishments.
After completing master's degrees in history and German and French literature, Judith considered staying in academia to earn a PhD in French Revolution-era stage design. Instead, she joined BCG and today is helping to lead a revolution in transforming business, health care, and society.
Although Judith's original dream job was to become a diplomat, an internship at BCG convinced her to change her path. "I was the typical insecure overachiever," she says. "I worked hard and excelled in my studies, but I felt even my professors and fellow students didn't truly value the work we were doing in the humanities. Suddenly when I got to BCG, everyone showed respect and genuine interest for what I was doing at university. It was a really transformative experience, and for the first time it truly felt like I was making a difference."
Judith is among the high number of non-business graduates who build diverse and successful careers at BCG. She is a partner and managing director in our Munich, is a core member of our German Health Care practice, leads the BCG Henderson Institute (our global think tank) in Europe, and is a BCG Fellow. Judith is also part of a team that manages BCG's global partnership with TED, including the curating of TED@BCG events in cities around the world.
Motivated by her father's six-year battle with cancer, Judith has dedicated much of her career at BCG to helping pharmaceutical clients develop new treatments for cancer, diabetes, and rare diseases, and speed new life-saving drugs to market. She is fascinated by the progress science has made in the past decade, and is acutely aware of the obstacles that prevail in turning it into tangible patient benefits. Supporting this progress is a deep passion she shares with her clients.
"Women on my teams consistently say that BCG provides a more level playing field for them to rise through the ranks."
Judith believes that her unusual background has actually, and unexpectedly, helped her a lot in her BCG career. "In business strategy, little is black and white. Neither do organizations function in these extremes. My background in the humanities prepared me to think differently and to focus on the gray areas where you can learn the most—and make the biggest difference," Judith says. "BCG does an amazing job of helping people like me from nontraditional backgrounds learn the skills of business and consulting, while building on our own individual strengths. It's a highly personalized process; we understand everyone is different—and everyone has different things to learn."
Over her 16-year career, Judith has witnessed many changes at BCG, but two things have remained constant: the firm's objective, rather than subjective, professional advancement practices and a culture of caring. Both, she believes, make BCG a fantastic environment in which women can build outstanding careers and lives.
"Quite frankly, being a woman has never been a disadvantage for me at BCG," she says. "Performance is measured in a very stringent way and applied equally to men and women, so no one is getting ahead just because he's a guy, or because of office politics. You always know exactly what's expected of you, and there's a very sophisticated way of measuring one's performance. Constant developmental feedback is baked into our culture. That makes it a very good environment for women to excel—because it's high pressure and competitive, but also feels very safe."
"Caring is not optional here," Judith continues. "It is the foundation of what makes us successful. We have a high-touch coaching model, which means project leaders and principals provide daily feedback and encouragement to team members, always with an eye toward helping them to learn and grow. At the same time, BCG's culture leaves you a lot of freedom. You can do whatever you want outside of work and no one could care less, in a very good way."
Compared with career opportunities at start-up companies, Judith also gives BCG the edge, citing the opportunity to work on business- and world-shaping projects, and to constantly reinvent yourself by pursuing new personal or professional interests. Judith's own interest in Burning Man—she is married to a veteran "Burner" and has joined him at the desert event together with her two preschool children every year since 2013—inspired her to apply for, and receive, a BCG Fellowship to study how growth of the sharing economy will impact business and society.
"It's been an amazing journey," Judith says. "Very few organizations would have taken the risk of turning an ivory-tower historian and linguist into a health care consultant. It really sets us apart as a company."

subset: commoncrawl


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Bass Clarinet Superstars?
Speculator Sam
Date: 2018-07-04 08:46
I suggest a list for those who're newer to the bass clarinet and aren't sure where to listen for in terms of a good sound concept. Classical, jazz, rock, genre doesn't matter. Before I pronounce the initial list, they're entire male and I realize that might trigger a few people so I'll mention
Adison Evans
here, because she's an amazing saxophonist who happen to play bass as well.
My list isn't all seeing, please if you know some others that are highly regarded, or should, then feel free to mention them here. I'll begin listing in no particular order.
Harry Spaarnay
: Pioneer of not only contemporary music, but the instrument itself too. Didn't he inspire the invention of the Buffet Tosca basses? Great teacher, and will always be remembered for what he contributed to the world of this beloved "ugly duckling" of an instrument.
Michael Lowenstern
: Student to Spaarnay, ambassador of the instrument. Sorta like Yo-Yo Ma, since he's crossed many genres well with the bass. Big inspiration of mine.
Eric Dolphy
: There are so many tracks to choose from but I'll direct to
this take on the jazz standard Naima
because it's the one I find myself listening to the most that isn't too far down the "obsecure crazy jazz" rabbit-hole. I'm quite fond of his flute playing; I even wrote a flute song after it. Shameless plug here
Courtney Pine
: A fantastic multi-instrumentalist, but
this performance of "A Child is Born"
is definitely breath-taking when you are a bass clarinetist listening to this.
Tony Park
: Yamaha artist; an honorable mention
Josh Plotner
: Another fine multi-instrumentlist, composer/arranger, and happens to have a great bass clarinet tone.
Michael Portal
: The link leads to a piece that's quite tasteful and creative, another enjoyable jazz ballad here[/url. Portal's proof that it's not all about having a low C bass
Sebastian Tozzala
: Great bass clarinet sound to strive for. He's a good musician and it's always a pleasure to listen to his performances.
Reply To Message
Re: Bass Clarinet Superstars?
Date: 2018-07-04 10:08
I'd put Adison Evans in the regular list. She's got one of the best bass clarinet sounds I've ever heard--not a trace of buzz, hardness, or brittleness but round and resonant. She seems to have a more distinctive voice on bass clarinet than she does on baritone sax.
Yuen-Soo Yang is a excellent clarinetist on both soprano and bass instruments.
He has a very light but mellow sound and fleet, effortless technique.
Both Adison and Yuen-Suo manage to steer the bass clarinet away from a harsh, hard, barren kind of sound and invest it with real romantic lushness, color, and expressiveness. I'd like to hear how Adison sounds on the Vandoren BD5 bass clarinet mouthpiece.
Reply To Message
Re: Bass Clarinet Superstars?
Date: 2018-07-04 10:08
I would add Lawrie Bloom to the list–incredible performer as well as a highly successful teacher
Reply To Message
Re: Bass Clarinet Superstars?
Bob Bernardo
Date: 2018-07-06 00:01
Well we have to look at Eddie Palanker. 60 years or so with the Baltimore Symphony. Many of his gifted students are sitting in orchestras now.
Also John Bruce Yeh who got into the Chicago Symphony at the age of 19 on the bass clarinet. It's not his main instrument probably but it was the Chicago Symphony! One of the top orchestras in the world.
Both are really nice people too!
Designer of - Vintage 1940 Cicero Mouthpieces and the La Vecchia mouthpieces
Yamaha Artist 2015
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Re: Bass Clarinet Superstars?
Tony Park
Date: 2018-09-02 04:54
Hi Speculator Sam,
I am so honoured to be on your list- thank you so much for listening to my humble online endeavours. While I hardly qualify to be on such an esteemed list, I would like to nominate the jazz musician Roxy Coss. The track #MeToo on her The Future Is Female album is pretty remarkable. Also, I am not a Yamaha artist. I would love to be, though!
Best Wishes,
Tony Park
Reply To Message
Re: Bass Clarinet Superstars?
Date: 2018-09-02 19:40
I would second michael lowenstern, who is also a great ambassador for the bass clarinet, with his creative YouTube videos showing all the different musical genres that 'work' with the BC
Reply To Message
Re: Bass Clarinet Superstars?
Date: 2018-09-02 23:20
No love for Louis Sclavis? I'm more a Zoot Sims kind of guy, but his playing is specacular, only jazz player of international reputation I've been aware of playing bass.
(I'm off to check out Adison Evans, thanks for the recommendation, Seabreeze.)
Reply To Message
Re: Bass Clarinet Superstars?
Speculator Sam
Date: 2018-09-10 19:31
DougR thank for sharing that! Louis' solos reminded me of a lot. I felt some inspiration from dolphy, rock'n'roll alto sax, and some violin cadenzas from classical music. I haven't listened to much soprano sax lately but I felt a significant amount of Coltrane. The way he swung the 16ths and applyed the bebop scales all screamed "OUR LORD AND SAVIOUR COLTRANE BE-ETH MINE EXPRESSION". Fantastic band for that piece though. I'm adding that to my metaphorical iPod now.
Reply To Message
Re: Bass Clarinet Superstars?
Date: 2018-09-11 17:52
Think I'll mention Lee Livengood from the Utah Symphony and Steve Hanusofsky from the Phoenix Symphony. Both have held their chairs for quite awhile.
I think there are many good players out there if one were to listen for them.
The late Joe Temperly was wonderful on bass clarinet with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and his arrangement and playing of "Single Petal of a Rose" is perhaps the finest example of bass clarinet tone I've ever heard. Very moving. He first played it for his wife on their anniversary (believe 50th) if I'm remembering the story correctly. Begins at 52:39 on the video link below, performed just months before his passing.
Reply To Message
Re: Bass Clarinet Superstars?
Date: 2018-09-12 03:55
I am going to nominate my good friend Sauro Berti. He is a monster! You also need to hear him play basset horn. Remarkable.
Walter Grabner
World Class Hand-Crafted Clarinet Mouthpieces
Reply To Message
Re: Bass Clarinet Superstars?
Date: 2018-09-13 20:34
Don't forget Henri Bok, who in my opinion is just as influential as Harry Spaarnay on the advancement of the bass as a solo instrument and one of those who pioneered the bass clarinet performance degree program.
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Re: Bass Clarinet Superstars?
QuickStart Clarinet
Date: 2018-09-13 22:44
I agree with the addition of Lawrie Bloom. He has played with the Chicago Symphony for many years, and is a staple of American bass clarinet playing.
Josh Goo
QuickStart Clarinet Founder
Reply To Message
Re: Bass Clarinet Superstars?
Mike Cyzewski
Date: 2018-09-19 01:41
Jim Ognibene of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra is a superstar orchestral bass clarinetist . Every time I hear the orchestra, his solos stand out as equal or better than the other excellent principal players.
Chris Runk who recently retired from the Dallas Symphony is another favorite of mine. Hearing him play the first time opened my eyes as to how the upper register of the bass clarinet can sound beautiful.
Reply To Message
Re: Bass Clarinet Superstars?
James Langdell
Date: 2018-10-04 08:26
Another bass clarinetist of interest is Bennie Maupin, heard on Miles Davis's "Bitches Brew", many Herbie Hancock recordings, as well as his own recordings.
There's at least one striking album by Buddy De Franco, "Blues Bag", where he mainly plays bass clarinet.
I studied with Rosario Mazzeo, but sadly I never worked on bass clarinet with him. I've been enjoying hearing the recent box of Munch/Boston recordings where Mazzeo played bass clarinet.
Reply To Message
Re: Bass Clarinet Superstars?
Date: 2018-10-04 19:01
Michael Lowenstern is certainly to mention!
Reply To Message
Re: Bass Clarinet Superstars?
Date: 2018-10-06 16:04
Lorenzo Iosco is one of the best of the best out there.
Look him up
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NEW YORK -- Stocks hit their all-time highs exactly five years ago. And corporate earnings reports that begin Tuesday will help determine whether they can make it all the way back to the peak.
Indexes fell on Wall Street as investors reacted to another weak forecast on the global economy and ahead of the traditional start of earnings season: results from Alcoa, the aluminum maker and economic bellwether, which come out after the closing bell.
The Dow Jones industrial average was off 58 points at 13,525 as of 11 a.m. Eastern.
The Standard & Poor's 500 index lost ten points to 1,446 and the Nasdaq gave up 42 points to 3,070.
Five years ago Tuesday, the Dow and S&P 500 hit record highs: The Dow closed at 14,164 and the S&P 500 closed at 1,565. The Dow is currently 4 percent below that peak, the S&P is 7 percent below its record.
Investors were discouraged by an International Monetary Fund report released overnight which said the global economy is weakening and that the downturn afflicting developing nations has begun to spread. The weak forecast comes one day after the World Bank cut its estimate for growth in China, the world's second-largest economy, and for developing countries across Asia.
The IMF forecasts that the world economy will expand 3.3 percent this year, down from the estimate of 3.5 percent growth it issued in July. Its forecast for growth in 2013 is 3.6 percent, down from 3.9 percent three months ago and 4.1 percent in April.
Markets have been supported for months by expectations that the U.S. Federal Reserve would step in if was any sign that the U.S. economic recovery was flaming out. However, economists have continually lowered expectations for the year ahead, and the IMF report only heightened that pessimism.
After the closing bell, aluminum maker Alcoa becomes the first major U.S. company to report third-quarter results. Analysts are expecting earnings at S&P 500 companies to decline overall for the first time in nearly three years.
Wall Street expects Alcoa to break even, but had been predicting profits of 12 cents per share from the aluminum maker as recently as July. Alcoa was up 2 cents at $9.14 in morning trading.
Two big banks, JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, post earnings Friday.
Earlier Tuesday, the National Federation of Independent Business reported that business owners became increasingly pessimistic during September due to the weak hiring environment and poor sales. Nonetheless, the number of owners who expect business conditions to improve in six months gained 4 percentage points. Those believing it's a good time to expand rose 3 percentage points.
Among other stocks making big moves, Edwards Lifesciences dropped $19.51 to $87.90 after the company reported revenue that fell well short of analyst's forecasts. Sales of its Sapien heart valves were weaker than the company had expected.
Yum Brands, which owns the Taco Bell, Pizza Hut and KFC chains, fell 72 cents to $66.22. The company, which also reports results after the closing bell, has predicted a return to rapid growth in its China operations in the second half of the year.
The yield on the 10-year Treasury note fell to 1.72 percent from 1.74 percent late Friday. U.S. government bond trading was closed Monday for the Columbus Day holiday.
European markets were mostly lower. Benchmark indexes fell 0.6 percent in Germany and 0.4 percent Britain. France's stock market index fell 0.2 percent.


text:
Liverpool reject Suarez bid
Liverpool have rejected a bid from Arsenal for Luis Suarez and remain steadfast in their insistence the striker is not for sale. Press Association Press Association Sport understands the Gunners made an offer in the region of £30million for the Uruguay international last week which was rejected out of hand by the Reds. Despite the 26-year-old this summer voicing his dislike of his treatment by the English media and suggesting a move to Real Madrid would appeal, the club have no intention of selling, a stance which was not even tested by an offer well below what is considered Suarez's true value. Suarez, who has three years remaining on an improved contract he signed last summer, is currently on extended leave after his involvement in the Confederations Cup. Neither he nor his representatives have spoken to Liverpool about any intention to ask for a move but his comments while on international duty in South America have left the club in a difficult position. It was expected any approach from Madrid would come after the end of the Confederations Cup but so far has nothing has materialised and the fear is the Spanish giants will leave it late in the window in order to drive the price down. Arsenal's surprise bid may have been more strategic than realistic as they are currently trying to push through a deal to sign Real striker Gonzalo Higuain. Making an offer for Suarez may have just been a ploy intended to focus the minds of Bernabeu officials on signing off the Higuain move. Suarez is not due back for pre-season until July 22 and he will then be expected to join the club's tour matches in Australia and Thailand.


text:
CSI and CSI: NY are teaming up for a two-part crossover in February.
CSI will kick things off in the first hour, with CSI: NY's Detective Mac Taylor (Gary Sinise) traveling to Las Vegas to surprise his girlfriend Christine (Megan Dodds). When she's missing upon his arrival, he calls on D.B. Russell (Ted Danson) to help find her.
Fall TV report card: How's the new class doing?
In the second part, airing on CSI: NY, Russell will go to New York as the pair searches to find out if Christine is still alive.
Exclusive CSI: NY First Look: Why does Lindsay suspect Danny?The procedurals previously staged a three-part crossover with the now-defunct CSI: Miami in 2009.Part 1 will air Wednesday, Feb. 6 at 10/9c and Part 2 will air Friday, Feb. 8 at 9/8c. Are you excited for the crossover?


text:
Seegrid, the leading provider of connected self-driving vehicles for materials handling, introduces the Smart Platform, which includes self-driving vehicles, the intelligence of Seegrid Supervisor, and the passion of the Seegrid team for a connected materials handling solution that gives Seegrid customers a competitive edge.
The Seegrid team advises and supports the customer from initial application scope to daily analysis of the fleet and everything in between. Seegrid's application engineers work closely with distribution centers, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities to develop custom recommendations aimed at optimizing operations, saving customers time and money.
Seegrid's Customer Success team supports customers from project kick-off through implementation and beyond. Post-install, they keep tabs on VGV fleets, measuring productivity and suggesting solutions for continual innovation.
The training and education team at Seegrid offers a two-day training program that provides technicians with the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of their robotic co-workers. By the time they leave Seegrid, the new robot operators will be training routes in-house in a matter of minutes.
According to Jeff Christensen, VP of Product with Seegrid, "We love what we do—helping customers transform into smart factories with connected self-driving vehicles. Our customers love what we do—working passionately to make them look brilliant every day."
To read more, go to: http://bit.ly/2swp6NP
About Seegrid
Seegrid (www.seegrid.com) is the leading provider of connected self-driving vehicles for materials handling with hundreds of thousands of miles driven. The Seegrid Smart Platform combines flexible and reliable infrastructure-free vision guided vehicles with fleet management and enterprise intelligence data for a complete connected solution. Seegrid accelerates Industry 4.0 and lean initiatives with incremental automation, helping companies achieve a truly connected enterprise and transform into smart factories of the future.
Follow Seegrid on Twitter at @Seegrid.
Media Contact
Company Name: Seegrid Corporation
Contact Person: Amanda Merrell
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Phone: (412) 621-4305
Address:216 RIDC Park West Drive
City: Pittsburgh
State: PA
Country: United States
Website: www.seegrid.com


text:
Why invest in Armenia ?
International organizations consider the investment and trade policies of Armenia to be some of the most open in the entire CIS. Foreign companies coming to Armenia are encouraged to invest, and are entitled by law to the same treatment as local companies. In addition, they also have certain advantages. Armenia's investment climate is continuously improving with a strong commitment by the government to attracting foreign direct investments. This includes ongoing refinement of the legislative framework. Large-scale privatization offers additional attractive opportunities.
The Law on Foreign Investment, adopted in July 1994, regulates foreign investment in Armenia. It provides guarantees to foreign investors and protects investors from changes in the business related laws for 5 years. According to the Law a "Foreign Investor" is any foreign company or citizen, a person without citizenship, an Armenian citizen permanently residing outside of Armenia, or an international organization that invests in Armenia. "Foreign investment" is any form of property, including financial assets and intellectual property, which is invested by a foreign investor directly in the territory of Armenia, in any economic or other venture.
Armenia is a WTO member
In 2003 Armenia become a full member of WTO. All rules and regulations of the Foreign Trade Policy of Armenia now conform to WTO requirements. Due to stable economic growth and an open trade system, exports have grown every year since 1999. In 2003 exports grew by 34%.
Armenia ranks as the Most Economically Free Nation in the CIS countries according to the "2006 Index of Economic Freedom" as published on their website www.heritage.org.


text:
As a member of one of our case teams, you'll work with and learn from some of the best minds in business. Ideas, not tenure, matter to us, so you'll be able to make an impact from day one. Working at BCG will help you develop the skills and confidence you need in a supportive environment that respects the views of every individual. Hands-on learning, support from your team, and innovative training programs will allow for a smooth transition from the classroom to the real world of business.
When you join BCG, you'll have the opportunity to make an immediate impact, developing game-changing ideas across a wide-range of industries and fields. There's no better way to get global, real-life experience and see your ideas at work in the business community and society. Our case teams are relatively small, which means your learning curve is steep. From the start of your BCG career, you will be exposed and contribute value to the innovative culture that our firm fosters through our work.
Starting your career at BCG will be a demanding—but rewarding—experience, supported by mentors and peers in a collaborative culture. At BCG, you'll connect with people from a diverse and broad set of backgrounds—including business, engineering, economics, science, and the humanities—working together on teams that are tailored for each client. Collaboration also means more fun, meeting other BCGers through team and office events, sports teams, cultural opportunities, and volunteer initiatives. This leads to lasting relationships that are a foundation for your future success.
It's pretty simple: we want to help our clients and each other succeed. Mentorship and apprenticeship are embedded throughout your career at BCG. At BCG, our strong team culture means we look out for each other. There's a support system of career development advisors, the guidance of project leaders, and partnership with your colleagues and teammates at every turn. You'll pursue your interests, make an impact, and find your place at BCG.
Although you'll undoubtedly work hard, you'll also work smart. Our PTO (predictability, teaming, and open communication) facilitators help consulting teams work more optimally to deliver client value by enabling more predictability and career sustainability. Complementing that, our Flexibility@BCG programs ensure your career is professionally sustainable and personally fulfilling by providing enhanced work options and the ongoing support to manage them. At BCG, we consistently work to create an environment of flexibility and support for our employees and the work they do.
Three months into the job, my principal was comfortable with me running meetings with senior executives by myself. As a fresh college graduate, it's quite empowering!
What is truly amazing about BCG is the exposure you are guaranteed to get at such an early stage in your career. As a fresh graduate from local university, the exposure to various industries and wide ranges of topics really shaped my perspective.
I studied social anthropology in college, not traditionally seen as a degree that feeds into management consulting. I was in search of a career that would let me use my liberal arts education while broadening my understanding of the business world. BCG has given me the opportunity to do both.
When I left university and especially the ivory tower of philosophy, I didn't expect to find a setting again where the best argument wins regardless of the status and tenure of its author. But participating in the first BCG case team meetings, I witnessed a culture in which senior BCG partners encourage junior team members to bring their points to the table.
You'll be supported through our in-depth and innovative training and development programs to help you take the leap into the business world. Through a combination of our skill-development trainings, individualized mentorship, and real-life experience, you will develop a proficiency that will allow you to add value within BCG, and beyond.
A career at BCG gives you the opportunity to work in many different fields and industries, so you can discover your own interests and expand the number of paths your career can follow. You may continue with us as a consultant, or pursue an MBA or other advanced degree. In recent years, 90% of our staff who applied to a top-tier business school were accepted. Others choose to pursue opportunities beyond BCG and join our alumni family, taking on a role in an entrepreneurial venture, a startup, private equity, or industry. No matter what you decide to do or where you decide to go, BCG will set you up for success.
You'll have both the tools and the opportunity to expand your work on an international scale. There are tremendous international opportunities available to you early in your career at BCG. More than 25% of our consultants work outside their home countries every year, and about half work in global teams led and staffed by BCGers from other parts of the world. Working abroad takes many forms at BCG, whether it's cross-office projects, Associate Abroad and Ambassador programs, office transfers, or secondments—where you work for up to a year at a client or with our global social impact partners.


text:
Let's Make Robots user Rob "renkku" Re is getting some pretty good results from his sound-activated camera flash system, called the Picture-Axe. Built around a Picaxe microcontroller, it has a sound detection circuit and a silicon controller rectifier (SCR) to drive a flash directly. The microcontroller can be used to adjust sensitivity and flash delay.
In the Maker Shed:


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What's the craziest thing you did on Adderall?
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Simple Pricing.
We build and design your App
We do all the heavy lifting for you.
No hidden costs
A simple monthly fee and a nice discount when you pay a year upfront.
Future Proof
We continuously add new features to keep your app updated and you have full app control through our Platform.
Starting from
$ 225 / mo*
* Based on a 2-years contract
What do I get for the Setup costs?
We know you are busy with your webshop already. So let us do al the heavy lifting that comes with creating a Native Shopping App. We will build, design and test your App. When you are happy with the end result, we help you publish your App in the App Stores.
What do I get for my subscription fee?
Your annual fee is not just a subscription payment, you will get a lot in return! You will receive the best support, help with your App Marketing and you will have full access to your own App through our user friendly platform. Our platform allows you to adjust or change elements of your App all by yourself and whenever you want!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, just one thing. In order to publish your app, both Google and Apple require you to have a 'developer account'. A Google Play Developer account is a $25 one-time fee and a Apple developer account is $99 per year. Once you have these developer accounts, you are able to publish your app under your company's name. For more info, check out our support docs about developer accounts for Google and Apple.
Your app will be ready in about 4 weeks. During this period we will integrate, design, test & publish your app. In the event of customization and/or technical issues it will, of course, take a bit longer before your app is ready.
Your annual subscription will start when your app is published. Everything beforehand is included in the one-time set-up fee.
We want to make sure your app is exactly how you want it to be. During the set-up we will reach out to you to install our plugin, get your feedback on the design and assist you in publishing your app.
No, our plugin will automatically detect and use the Payment Gateway integrated with your online store, including (but not limited to) PayPal, Adyen, MultisafePay, Klarna, AsiaPay and BrainTree. Our platform supports all payment methods that these providers support (creditcards, iDeal, direct debit, ELV, PayPal, Klarna and Afterpay).
Our team of app developers are constantly making improvements to the apps, by adding new features for free and updating the app for the latest versions. So don't worry, you can just sit-back and relax with any new updates.


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OTTAWA — The Islamic centre in Saskatoon is experiencing growing pains.
Friday services have been split into two, so local streets aren't clogged with traffic. City officials and nearby residents are working with the centre to answer questions such as: where to put more parking?
"We have been experiencing this kind of steady increase for a while," said Amin Elshorbagy, president of the Canadian Islamic Congress and a Saskatoon resident.
"We can see this in terms of the need to expand our infrastructure. Most of our Islamic centres are becoming very crowded."
Statistics released Wednesday confirm what can already be seen: more mosques with busier prayer services and the increasing prevalence of women dressed in hijabs and niqabs in all walks of life. Islam is the fastest-growing religious group in the country.
Across Canada, the Muslim population is growing at a rate exceeding other religions, according to Statistics Canada. It is even growing faster than the number of Canadians who identify themselves as having no religion, though just barely, according to the National Household Survey released Wednesday.
The Muslim population exceeded the one-million mark in 2011, according to the survey, almost doubling its population for the second-consecutive decade. Muslims now represent 3.2 per cent of the country's total population, up from the two per cent recorded in 2001.
The majority of growth in the Muslim population is the result of immigration, as it is with Sikhs, Hindus and Buddhists, with the largest share coming from Pakistan over the past five years, according to Statistics Canada. Muslims are also the youngest religious group in the country with a median age of about 28 years old.
"The phenomenon of the younger age for groups such as Muslims and Hindus is a reflection of the immigration trends," said Tina Chui, chief of immigration and ethnocultural statistics at Statistics Canada. "People tend to migrate when they're younger."
The growth of the Muslim population is part of a larger trend: minority religious groups becoming a larger slice of the Canadian cultural mosaic, although Christian religions still dominate with almost 70 per cent of the population. That raises questions of accommodation and integration of a religion that experts say is often unfairly viewed through a lens of fear.
"Polling has shown that Canadian Muslims are proud to be Canadian, more so than the average Canadian," said Ihsaan Gardee, executive director of the Canadian Council on American-Islamic Relations. "Canadian Muslims very much want to integrate and be part and parcel of the society."
One-on-one, non-Muslims can have favourable views of their Islamic colleagues, but that feeling doesn't always extend to the wider Muslim population, said Pamela Dickey Young, a professor of religion and culture at Queen's University.
"It isn't like Canadian Muslims have not tried to educate the Canadian populace … but for some reason there's still that edge with it that some Canadians have problems getting over," Dickey Young said.
The survey results should be taken with caution. Experts say the voluntary nature of the National Household Survey, which replaced the mandatory long-form census, leaves some gaps in the data from groups that tend not to respond to such surveys, such as new immigrants.
Experts believe the data provide a fairly good, broad picture of Canada, but data on smaller groups may provide less reliable information.
There are also no breakdowns within the different religious groups. For instance, the survey provides no breakdown of type of Muslims living in Canada, as the survey didn't ask respondents whether they were Shiite or Sunni.
"People keep blocking us into one cohesive mass and we're not that at all," said said Alia Hogben, executive director of the Canadian Council of Muslim Women.
"We need to sit down as Muslims — not as a community because there isn't one community — and decide what we want to be accommodated and what we want to give up."
That internal debate in the Muslim community gets sidetracked because of the backdrop of violence done in the name of religion, which Canadian Muslims regularly and quickly condemn.
"It is an additional pressure and a big one on the Muslim community," Elshorbagy said.
"We need to be extra nice just because we're Muslims. We need to go beyond certain limits, which is very unfortunate for people like me," he said. "Sometimes the media will call something Islamic terrorism — once you call it Islamic, you've brought me into the picture even though I haven't done something wrong."
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Star Formation in the DR21 Region
Observations from NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope reveal a turbulent nest of giant newborn stars too shrouded in dust to be seen with visible light. This movie highlights this stellar nursery, called DR21, and illustrates what a human eye might see if it could be re-tuned to see different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. It shows the area surrounding DR21 in shifting wavelengths of light, beginning with the visible and ending with the new Spitzer infrared observations. The view changes in hue from red to blue, then fades from sight, as new infrared features appear in false-colors. The first false-color infrared view is from the near-infrared Two Micron All Sky Survey (2MASS) at wavelengths of 1.3 to 2.2 microns. The second false-color view is from Spitzer's mid-infared InfraRed Array Camera (IRAC) at wavelengths of 3.6 to 8 microns.
The picture at the start of the animation encompasses the entire region observed by the Spitzer Space Telescope. The faint emission from hot gas, which appears red initially in the visible view, shifts toward blue and out of sight as the near-infrared features start to emerge. A multitude of new stars shifts into view in the near-infrared view. Then, several faint, dark reddish smudges appear throughout this field, hinting at the presence of more deeply buried nebula. Finally as the movie shifts to longer Spitzer wavelengths, these denser embedded dust clouds burst fully into view, revealing the more extensive network of newborn stars that was utterly absent in visible light.
The shift from visible to infrared light is then repeated for a zoomed-in view of the central DR21 complex. With this magnification, the stellar nursery of massive stars is much clearer. In the final Spitzer view, red filaments trace the presence of complex hydrocarbon molecules. The green jet of gas at the bottom of the region reveals an outflow of material from a massive star over 100,000 times as bright as our own Sun.
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This information is intended for general information only and should not be considered as medical advice on the part of Health-Tourism.com. Any decision on medical treatments, after-care or recovery should be done solely upon proper consultation and advice of a qualified physician.
What is Thermage?
Thermage (or RadioThermoplasty) is a non-invasive aesthetic procedure to resurface the skin. Thermage uses radiofrequency energy to heat the deeper layers of the skin and stimulate the natural renewal of collagen, which tightens the skin, treats lines and wrinkles and helps produce a "younger-looking" appearance.
How is the Thermage procedure carried out?
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The explosive growth of the 1st century church offers inspiration as we seek to see our 21st century churches fulfill God's purposes for them. Join Nathan Diaz, FBH's Spanish language producer, as he explores the working of the Holy Spirit in the book of Acts.
HopeStreamRadio is a Christian Internet Radio Station that provides daily programming to English‑speaking Christians around the world to encourage them in their relationship with the Lord and inform them about the work God is doing around the world.


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Planner is very similar to another occupation for which we have
a full profile.
Check out our full profile for:
City and Regional Planning Aides
Compile data from various sources, such as maps, reports, and field and file investigations, for use by city planner in making planning studies.
City Designer
Community Planner
Development and Housing Director
Development Technician
Engineering Technician
GIS Technician (Geographic Information Systems Technician)
Planning Aide
Planning Assistant
Planning Intern
Planning Technician
Transportation Planner
Zoning Technician


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LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Kentucky is in the running to land a hemp processing plant being considered by a Canadian company, but questions about the plant's legality have to be resolved.
Hemp Oil Canada CEO Shaun Crew says Kentucky has the advantage of a central location and hemp-growing heritage.
But he said Wednesday it's difficult to make any commitment until legal questions are settled.
Hemp was banned decades ago when it was classified as a controlled substance related to marijuana.
Kentucky lawmakers passed a bill this year to allow the crop to be reintroduced, but only if the federal government lifts its ban.
Attorney General Jack Conway recently said growing hemp remains illegal in Kentucky.
Agriculture Commissioner James Comer says hemp could be an economic boost for Kentucky.
The Courier-Journal reported on the company's interest in Kentucky in Wednesday's paper.


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LAS VEGAS — A Nevada gambling regulator says the hackers who knocked down all Las Vegas Sands websites for two days and counting did not steal any patron data, including credit card information.
Nevada Gaming Control Board chairman A.G. Burnett says regulators' first priority after the world's largest casino operator was hacked Monday was to ensure the safety of player information and the integrity of the gambling systems.
Burnett says Sands has confirmed that hackers did not compromise these two areas. Sands spokesman Ron Reese did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Gaming regulators are now working to ensure Sands did everything possible to protect employee information. The hackers, whose identities remain unknown, posted what appeared to be employee Social Security numbers on the Sands sites.


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Augusta Events, Coupons, Reviews!
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I have been provided a product in order to facilitate a review. No monetary compensation was received unless noted otherwise. All opinions are 100% my own. Some posts may contain affiliate links that I receive commission or payment for in exchange for referrals. In the event of a giveaway, the sponsor is responsible for delivery of the prize, unless noted otherwise on the giveaway post. I only recommend products or services I personally use and believe will be a good fit for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 225: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising"
So, who's glad that winter is here?! Anyone?? I didn't think so and I surely don't blame you! I'm not exactly a fan of winter either which is one of the reasons that I was adamant that I was not moving to Wisconsin when my husband approached me with the idea. Well, since I lost that battle and ended up in Wisconsin and am now waist deep in snow and ice (that might be a slight exaggeration but, it feels like it), I figure I had better get prepared for the long winter. I was thrilled to know that there is a new ice scraper on the market. I have always had the long scrapers with the brush on one end and scraper on the other. I like that I can reach far with them but I can't ever seem to exert enough pressure to actually scrape the windshield in the middle. When I first saw the Scrape-A-Round, I could see how they might be on to something.
Even though there isn't an extended reach, you can still scrape a larger area (18 inches) because of the circular design. I have a lot of problems with my hands that make the old ice scrapers very hard for me to use. The Scrape-A-Round is much easier on my hands because I do not have to grip it tightly and I don't have to exert as much force to scrape the ice. I also love that you can scrape in a circular motion which seems to be much easier than the standard back and forth.
There are several sizes available, the smallest sizes are great for getting ice off of smaller windows or mirrors.
The two larger scrapers have caps on the top that are used to score the ice which makes removal much easier.
My husband thinks it is great that he can also use these scrapers as funnels for washer fluid because he never has one when he needs it.
I took a quick video of myself scraping the window on my screen door. I'm sure you would have rather seen me use it on my car but, the temp here is -15 with the windchill and I didn't want to freeze so, this will have to do.
I also included a video from Scrape-A-Round so that you can get a better idea of how the design works.
I really do love this scraper! I think it would make a fantastic gift, especially for those that have problems with their hands! If you would like to get a scraper for yourself you can do so at this link http://www.scrapearound.com/. Use the code LU8FBEZREU2 and you will receive free shipping!
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J.C. Penney CEO impresses despite lossAugust 10, 2012: 12:57 PM ET
On paper, it was a really tough quarter for J.C. Penney (JCP), but CEO Ron Johnson was successful in convincing investors that the company is moving in the right direction.
The retailer, which launched an overhauled pricing strategy in February, lost $147 million during the second quarter, nearly three times more than analysts were expecting. Sales were extremely weak, falling 23% overall from a year earlier, and same store sales, a key gauge of a retailers' health, tumbled 22%. The drop in revenue squeezed the company's margins, pushing them down to 33% of sales from 38% a year ago.
Given the rockier-than-expected performance, J.C. Penney withdrew its earnings guidance for the rest of the year.
Still, Johnson was successful at reassuring investors that things will turn around.
"We have now completed the first six months of our transformation and while business continues to be softer than anticipated, we are confident the transformation of J.C. Penney is on track, " said Johnson, who prior to joining J.C. Penney nine months ago worked at Apple (AAPL), where he spearheaded the company's retail store strategy and Genius Bar. "The transition from a highly promotional business model to one based on everyday value will take time and we will stay the course."
Shares of J.C. Penney, which initially fell on the company's weak results, rallied as much as 11% after Johnson spoke on an analyst call Friday. The stock closed the day about 6% higher.
Related: JC Penney CEO: It may get worse before it gets better
Back in February, J.C. Penney launched its "Fair and Square" pricing plan that introduced three different price levels: everyday low prices, month-long sales on seasonal items and "best prices" or clearance promotions.
But after consumers failed to embrace the three-tiered structure, the company revised it to just two: everyday low prices and clearance.
"After three or four months of trying to communicate our three prices to customers, it was clear that it was confusing," admitted Johnson, who said he made the decision in mid-June to go dark on marketing and rethink the strategy. "We wanted to deliver great value every day that customers could trust and understand, so we had to fix that."
Though it's only been 10 days since J.C. Penney has implemented its simpler pricing structure, Johnson said traffic and sales figures are already showing improvement.
The company also started to unveil its boutiques within a store. Eventually, the entire department store will be carved out into 100 brand shops within one store.
So far, its Levi's shop has lifted sales of the brand by 25%, "performing exactly as we had hoped," Johnson said.
While Johnson didn't provide a specific earnings guidance for the remainder of 2012, he said he expects the company to resume profit growth in 2013. Johnson also boasted that company is on track to finish the year with over $1 billion in cash.
"In January, we laid out our four-year plan and we said this year will be tough," Johnson said. "Somehow I don't think that message go through. A transformation of a company is a marathon, not a sprint. It's going to take time."
Even though sales seem to be "falling down a cliff with no bottom in sight," NBG Productions chief equity analyst and portfolio manager Brian Sozzi said Johnson will likely be given plenty of time to implement his transformation plan.
Earlier this summer, J.C. Penney's largest shareholder, Bill Ackman, voiced his confidence in the company and in Johnson. Ackman's Pershing Square Capital Management owns almost 20% of the Plano, Texas-based retailer.
"He's got the backing of the largest shareholder, so he'll have time to resettle the store and get the marketing and merchandising right," said Sozzi. "If sales turn around, they'll be able to generate nice earnings, but at this point, it's hard to predict what's going to happen.">
While Johnson insists that the company's transformation is "on track," Sozzi counters that J.C. Penney's "financials are way off track." Sozzi has been shorting shares of J.C. Penney since January.
"The financial results for the quarter were worse than even the worst expectations," he said. "This holiday season is shaping up to be a bad one. If the 2013 holiday season is also a really bad one, then you have to question if Johnson will make through 2014."
Still, there's hope that the plan could work.
"I like Johnson. He's a visionary, and I can appreciate what he's trying to do," said Sozzi. "If he pulls this off, we'll have a very different mall experience and J.C. Penney will be light years ahead of Macy's (M) and other competitors."


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