text:
By Dr. Mercola
Most people will suffer some form of injury or painful condition at some time in their life. Is there a simple, effective way to accelerate healing that doesn't involve drugs or surgery? The short answer is yes, there is.
Dr. Phil Harrington is trained as a chiropractic physician, and for the past eight years he's worked for K-Laser, a company that has developed one of the most powerful and versatile cold lasers available.
At present, I'm passionate about optimizing mitochondrial function for health and disease prevention, and the K-Laser technology can be a helpful adjunct for that as well, especially as it applies to injuries.
One common question is: Can light really have a biological effect on tissue? And the answer to that is solid and resounding yes.
One clue can be found in the plant kingdom. Green growing plants absorb ultraviolet (UV) light and undergo a chemical process called photosynthesis that converts light energy into chemical energy.
There's an organelle in plants called the chloroplast, which is essentially the plant equivalent of our mitochondria. They work on similar biological principles in that they both create intracellular proton gradients, which helps explain how light energy can affect human mitochondria as well.
Laser therapy is also used in veterinary medicine, with great success, and this tells us the benefits are not simply due to the placebo effect.
How Light Affects Tissue Healing
Tissue healing comes about when red and infrared laser light is absorbed by different components in your tissues. When it comes to laser therapy, the effects include:
- Increased microcirculation in the tissues
- Increased tissue oxygenation (meaning, more oxygen is being released from the bloodstream)
- Improved energy production in damaged cells by stimulating enzymes in the mitochondria to utilize oxygen more efficiently
If there's an area of tissue injury, damage, pain, and inflammation, laser therapy through its mechanism of increased circulation, oxygenation, and enzyme activity, is able to facilitate repair and recover more quickly and become stronger than it would be without the laser.
Another benefit is the lack of adverse side effects. It's a very simple therapy and it makes great sense to consider it as a first line of treatment before considering more aggressive surgical or pharmacological intervention.
Three Basic Types of Light Therapy
There are basically three different types of light therapy: sunlight, LEDs, and lasers. The therapeutic use of sunlight goes back hundreds of years, as they realized it could help treat a number of different skin and infectious conditions, such as psoriasis, jaundice, and tuberculosis (TB).
Today, LEDs (light-emitting diodes), and lasers are more commonly used in the therapeutic setting. LEDs produce monochromatic light of a certain wavelength, such as 660 nanometers (nm), which is in the visible red spectrum.
Laser diodes deliver light of a tighter bandwidth, andthe K-Laser device is the only one to incorporate four different wavelengths at the same time, which makes it far more versatile than others.
Another major difference between LEDs and lasers is that the light emitted from LEDs is non-coherent whereas laser light is coherent, meaning the light waves match up with each other in space and time.
"There are a number of ... studies that have been done that looked at the effect of [light] coherency on the tissues. We can summarize it in general to say that if all other parameters are equal, laser wins every time, and it's because of that coherency of the light," Harrington says.
"If you shine the laser on a surface, you get what's called speckle formation. It almost looks like that laser light is crawling.
What is actually happening is that we're getting areas of constructive and destructive interference in between those coherent light waves, which essentially in the body would mean that in some areas it's a little bit warmer; in some areas, a little bit cooler.
One benefit that I think we're getting with laser therapy, specifically in reference to increasing circulation, is that the coherency of the light is responsible more for that increase in circulation that we get."
The coherency of laser light also allows for deeper penetration, which means you can deliver therapeutic dosages of light into deeper-lying tissues. As noted by Harrington:
"It's one thing to get a photon of light deep in the body; it's a much more significant criteria to get enough of them deep in the body so that we are getting the true therapeutic dosage."
About the only drawback is price. Lasers are more expensive, and high-powered lasers like the K-laser can only be purchased by licensed healthcare providers. LED devices, on the other hand, are readily available on Amazon for a reasonable price, and can easily be used at home.
Should You Buy an LED Device for Home Use?
If you're considering purchasing an LED device for the treatment of a soft tissue injury, here are two key considerations to keep in mind:
- LED devices will work well for more superficial tissue injuries and skin conditions, such as elbow tendonitis or psoriasis for example.
The reason for this is because they use non-coherent monochromatic light; typically red or infrared light, the former of which can penetrate just one millimeter into your body
- Deeper pains, such as arthritis in the hip or degenerative disc problems, are less likely to respond to LEDs, as the light cannot penetrate deeply enough. For these conditions, you need to see a practitioner that uses higher-powered laser therapy
Laser Therapy Can Be Useful for a Wide Variety of Conditions
My guess is that virtually every single person watching this will have — either currently or certainly at some point in their future — a condition that may benefit from laser therapy.
The reason for this goes back to the three mechanisms by which laser therapy affects tissue healing: circulation, oxygenation, and enzyme activity. There are in fact few conditions where none of these three mechanisms play a role in healing.
"Go from head to toe and think about any condition, whether it is pain and/or inflammation and/or tissue damage. We could start at the top of the head and look at situations of a tension headache or a migraine headache. We've got some very great success recently with trigeminal neuralgia and Bell's palsy.
Both are conditions that the sooner we get the laser on them, the more readily the condition will respond. Moving on down, the various neck-related issues — whether it's arthritic neck or related to a motor vehicle accident, on through rotator cuff issues ... carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, De Quervain's syndrome.
Various injuries in the upper extremity, back pain, shingles, low back pain, strains and sprains in the low back, arthritic hips, iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS), arthritic knees, or plantar fasciitis ... Whether it's pain, inflammation, or tissue damage, [laser therapy] can help them," Harrington says.
Harrington even cites a case where a woman suffered from shingles on her face. Not only was she in terrible pain as it was affecting her facial nerves, but it also affected her appearance, as it made her face and eyelid droop. After six K-Laser treatments, she was fully recuperated.
How Laser Therapy Affects Mitochondrial Function
As I mentioned earlier, one of my new passions is mitochondrial optimization. Laser therapy increases adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, and through my research I've gained a deeper appreciation of this mechanism. Mitochondria have cytochromes within the intracellular membrane, which act like magnets, in the sense that they absorb light energy.
When these photons are absorbed, they produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), primarily superoxide, which then gets converted by superoxide dismutase to hydrogen peroxide.
But here's the clincher: These ROS, while normally dangerous, when produced through a controlled mechanism such as with light therapy they actually facilitate the mitochondrial production of ATP, which provides injured cells with the energy needed for the healing process. And it does this without significantly increasing dangerous free radical production. As noted by Harrington:
"We're not turbo-charging the cells. This is not some sort of artificial stimulant. We're not making the body do anything that it could not normally do; we're just giving it the push with the laser light to help it do the things that it should normally do ... '[W]e remove the interference. Get the interferences out of the way and let the body heal itself.'"
Diet and Drug Use May Hamper Effectiveness of Laser Therapy
I believe optimizing the production of free radicals is one of the central mechanisms of how laser therapy works. But it's also important to realize that you can thwart this healing process by eating the wrong foods and taking certain drugs.
Most people consume "dirty" fuel (glucose) to generate their energy. Glucose generates excessive amounts of ROS, which then generates excessive free radicals (which typically damage the mitochondrial DNA that can consequently damage the nuclear DNA). Dietary fat is a much "cleaner" fuel, as it does not create nearly as much ROS, and hence fewer free radicals.
For this reason, you really want to feed your body fuel that is limited in net carbs. Fiber carbs like vegetables are great — you can eat unlimited amounts of those. It's the simple sugars that break down and generate ROS. What's important to realize is that this can interfere with the beneficial stimulus provided by the light therapy. As explained by Harrington, there's a synergistic effect there.
He also recommends taking ubiquinol or CoQ10 when getting laser therapy treatment, as this will help optimize the treatment. This is particularly true if you're also taking a statin drug. If you're on a statin, and you want laser therapy to work, ubiquinol is a very important adjunct.
In my view, statins may almost be viewed as a contraindication for laser therapy, and here's why: statins work by inhibiting a cholesterol-producing liver enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase. They also inhibit coenzyme Q10 (which is why ubiquinol — the reduced form of CoQ10 — is recommended), and it radically reduces your liver's ability to make ketones.
Fats are the primary fuel the liver produces, which cause your mitochondria and tissues to burn these fuels cleanly. If you shut down that mechanism, you're radically impairing your body's ability to use fat for fuel, and essentially, you're relying on glucose and carbohydrates, which create high amounts of ROS, impairing the effectiveness of the laser treatment.
So diet, supplements, and drugs can all impact the effectiveness of the treatment, for better or worse, and should be taken into consideration.
Different Types of Lasers
Lasers fall into different categories, from low to high power, using different wavelengths, the latter of which refers to the color of the light and is measured in nanometers (nm). Infrared wavelengths are slightly longer than red, and can penetrate deeply into the body. There are also specific wavelengths at which absorption for different components in the tissue peak.
- 800 nm: The 800 nm wavelength has the highest penetration, and here absorption of cytochrome oxidase enzymes is at its peak. Tests reveal the 800 wavelength can deliver a therapeutic dose of light about 10 centimeters into the body, making it effective even for people of great girth, and larger animals, like horses
- 905 nm: At the 905 nm wavelength, there's a peak of absorption for hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the bloodstream. So by using this wavelength, you allow for increased release of available oxygen in the blood stream. This also allows for the removal of carbon dioxide and other metabolic waste products from the damaged area
- 970 nm: Looking at the absorption curve, at 970 nm there's a peak in the absorption for water, and there are therapy lasers on the market that use the 970 wavelength exclusively, to stimulate circulation in the tissues. The 970 nm wavelength is also a potent stimulus to produce structured water in your cells, which has its own plethora of benefits. Boosting structured water is yet another mechanism of action that helps explain the healing power of lasers
The K-Laser uses all three of these wavelengths, plus the 660nm visible red wavelength, which is excellent for superficial wounds, for a total of four simultaneous wavelengths. This is what makes it so superior to other laser devices. As a high-powered, class IV laser, it can also deliver a high amount of light per unit of time, which means you can treat a much larger volume of tissue.
How to Find a Clinic That Uses K-Laser
A variety of therapists use the K-Laser system. Many are chiropractors, but some physicians and physical therapists also use them, especially doctors who do prolotherapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections. To locate a K-Laser practitioner, see K-LaserUSA.com's "Find a Provider" page. As you shop around for a practitioner, questions you may want to ask include:
- Confirm the type of laser used. Class IV therapy laser devices are the most beneficial, as they're the most powerful. However, the K-Laser is the only device on the market using all four wavelengths simultaneously, which makes it the most effective for the widest array of conditions. Other class IV lasers use only one or two wavelengths
- Confirm the clinician is trained in using the device for your condition
- The cost of each treatment. In the U.S., the median cost is about $75 per visit
- The number of visits recommended for the problem or injury in question. While this will vary greatly depending on your condition, anywhere from six to 15 visits is not uncommon. Acute soft tissue injuries typically require six to eight visits, while more chronic conditions, such as arthritic knees, may need upward of eight to 15, plus intermittent "booster" treatments thereafter.
In about 60 percent of cases, patients will notice some improvement after the first visit, even if it's minor. After three visits, 90 percent of patients notice some form of improvement. Also keep in mind that pain relief will be achieved long before the condition itself is fully healed, so it's important to remember that the absence of pain does not equal full recovery
- The recommended frequency of visits
Before Drugs and Surgery, Consider Giving Laser Therapy a Try
I am a major fan of laser therapy and personally own two K-Laser units because my review suggests they are the best units out there. I have successfully treated a large number of friends and professional associates with the K-Laser and have been very impressed. In one case, 10 years of pain in the ankle disappeared in just two treatments. That's not to say all pain will vanish like magic, but it was certainly a powerful testament to its healing ability for me.
When you consider that a painful condition you've suffered with for years might be resolved for a few hundred dollars' worth of K-Laser treatments, I believe you'll agree it's well worth it. Especially when you compare it to the alternatives, which usually involves expensive drugs and/or surgery — both of which can also produce adverse side effects that may end up being permanent. Again, examples of the types of injuries and conditions that K-Laser therapy can be helpful for include:
- Acute injuries, such as strains, sprains, and shoulder injuries
- Repetitive-use injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome
- Traumatic injuries, such as post-motor vehicle accident with cervical strain/sprain
- Chronic issues such as frozen shoulder and arthritis
- Just about any issue involving inflammation, tissue damage and/or pain, including but not limited to migraines, trigeminal neuralgia, Bell's palsy, De Quervain's syndrome, shingles, low back pain, iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS), and plantar fasciitis
Animals of all sorts can also benefit from laser therapy. Veterinarians are able to use medical devices as they see fit, and some veterinarians, especially holistic vets like Dr. Karen Becker, swear by laser therapy for conditions such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, and intervertebral disc disease in dachshunds, for example.
K-LaserUSA.com can help you find both human and veterinary medical providers that are licensed in the use of K-Laser therapy. If you're a clinician, and would like more information about K-Laser, please use the following link.
Source: mercola rss


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Awakening Wednesday — Coffee & You!
By Rob Hardwicke, Product Master, Awakening Mineral Skin Care
Green coffee extract? I've made posts in the past about the benefits of coffee. Coffee seems a little like red wine — something both new & good about it always
keeps popping up in the news.
Now Dr. Oz has come across news that green coffee extract works to help the body lose weight.
I'm not inclined to promote weight loss products & programs, but I think it's worth passing along news that could be as good as this. Who wouldn't be interested in a weight-loss opportunity that entails almost no physical exersion? Just open your mouth. I can do that! The news report indicates that Dr. Oz had two of his viewers give green coffee extract a try over a five-day period. One lady lost 2 pounds and the other lost six.
Since our company formulates a therapeutic hand cream called Awakening Espresso HANDS using coffee extract, maybe we should be in touch with Dr. Oz, too! But we use the coffee extract because it is an antioxidant for the skin. In our case, we hope that the extract does not cause the hands to lose weight. Boney fingers are too quickly associated with the wicked witch in Hansel & Gretel — Hansel didn't get eaten because the witch mistook a chicken bone for Hansel's finger — "too scrawney to eat!", she concluded.
But it's no fairy tale that coffee extract is good for your skin. Many happy patrons of our espresso hand cream can atest to that fact. As for the weight-loss capacity of coffee extract, the jury may still be out.

subset: commoncrawl


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Right Book, Right Time
Hi everyone! Happy Spring! I hope you're all having a great year so far and that the weather is finally starting to get warmer where you are (it's still freezing in Scotland!). Last week I finished reading a book and it occurred to me that perhaps if I had read that book at a different time then I may not have enjoyed it as much as I did. So this post is going to be a kind of discussion of that mixed with a relaxed review of the book, so let's see how this works!
The book in question is On the Other Side by Carrie Hope Fletcher. I love Carrie and have reviewed her non-fiction book All I Know Now on this blog previously. I watch her videos on youtube and am even lucky enough to be going to see her perform as Wednesday in The Addams Family Musical next month with my best friend so I was very excited when I heard that she was writing a fiction novel. On the Other Side is a story about a woman called Evie who has passed away in old age and has found herself unable to get into her own heaven without first ridding her soul of three secrets she kept her whole life. The story has elements of magical realism which were subtly done apart from one. In order to avoid spoilers for those of you who may want to read the book I won't say which part it was but the instance seemed, to me, a bit out of tune with the rest of the magical realism system used and therefore it came across as a tad far-fetched. However, that being said I very much enjoyed the other touches of magic in the book, something that usually I may have found a bit distracting as I tend to enjoy more realistic stories.
The characters in the novel were written excellently, each with flaws and quirks that made them very real and easy to warm to. Evie was a great heroine, kind and unafraid to be herself while also putting the needs of others before her own desires. A shared trait between most of the characters was that they were sweet, again something which may have irritated me slightly in other novels or even if I'd just been reading this at a different time.
This is why I think it is so important to read what you feel like you really want to read instead of what you feel others think you should read or forcing yourself to read your TBR in a pre-set order. Reading and books are to be enjoyed and to enjoy them to their full potential we must read them when we feel the time is right and when we're in the right head space for them. Do you feel like you want to pick up a book set at Christmas time in the middle of June? Do it! Do you feel like you want to read a fluffy contemporary instead of that non-fiction that's been sitting on your shelf for months? Do it. Read what makes you happy when it makes you happy.
I hope you enjoyed this post and that maybe it made you pick up something to read that will make you happy like On the Other Side made me happy! Leave your comments below to tell me what you think!
See you soon,
Shannon 🙂


text: Hobbies Cars & Motorcycles Turtle Wax Black Box Cleaning and Waxing Kit Wash and Wax in One? Share PINTEREST Email Print The Black Box package includes black-tinted cleaner, wax and detailer plus two foam applicator pads. Aaron Gold Cars & Motorcycles Cars Tools & Products Buying & Selling Basics How Tos Reviews Classic Cars Exotic Cars Corvettes Mustangs Tires & Wheels Motorcycles Used Cars SUVs Trucks ATVs & Off Road Public Transportation By Aaron Gold Aaron Gold is a connoisseur of all things automotive, with more than 20 years' experience as a journalist specializing in the automotive industry. our editorial process Aaron Gold Updated July 14, 2018 Black cars look great when they're clean -- but keeping them clean can be a major pain. They can also fade and lose their luster over time, and the tone of the color really shows it perhaps more than others. Turtle Wax has a product called Black Box, which is a cleaning and waxing system designed specifically for black or dark-colored vehicles. Some of the products are sold separately, but they also come in a kit. Let's take a look at how to use the Black Box kit, and see if it is really worth the money. The Turtle Wax Black Box Cleaning and Waxing Kit The Black Box kit contains a bottle of cleaner, a bottle of Carnauba wax and two bottles of spray detailer. All of these products are tinted with black pigment, which makes them a bit like shoe polish for your car. The kit also includes a pair of foam applicator pads but it does not include any microfiber towels, which you will need in order to clean your car. Applying the product is about as easy as it gets: Just rub the cleaner onto the surface of your vehicle with the foam applicator and allow it to dry. Then spray the detailer on top and rub off with a towel. Next, just repeat the process with the wax. The Turtle Wax Black Box kit is fairly easy to use. Carnauba wax usually requires some serious elbow grease, but the spray-on detailer makes it easy to remove. A Couple of Gripes First, the product is messy and hard to wash off. Turtle Wax recommends wearing gloves, and you'll want to do that. Second, the instructions say to use one applicator pad for each product, but since the pads are identical, it's easy to mix them up. Turtle Wax really ought to include two different colored pads or at least mark them to differentiate which product goes on which pad. If you decide that you like this product, check out other Turtle Wax products that are made especially for black or dark-colored vehicles. Disclosure: Review samples were provided by the manufacturer. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.


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Located in the northern part of the North America, Canada forms a federation comprised of Western Canada, Central Canada, Atlantic Canada and Northern Canada. Canada features an extensive coastline and eight distinct forest regions such as the Boreal Forest on the Canadian Shield. Local and foreign tourists can also check out the fresh water glaciers including the Canadian Rockies and Coast Mountains. Canada also hosts numerous attractive vacation spots.
Banff Gondola
No trip to Canada will be complete without a ride exploring the Canadian Rockies through Banff Gondola. Local and foreign tourists can take a cable car ride from Sulphur Mountain in Banff, Alberta, to experience a bird's eye view of six mountain ranges. Tourists can ride in a modern, fully enclosed, four-passenger gondola cabin. The ride climbs an elevation ranging from 2,292 feet to 7,486 feet. Rides are also available during evenings. Tourists taking the evening mountaintop experience can also indulge in a full Alberta prime rib dinner afterwards. At the end of the ride, tourists can proceed to the numerous scenic hiking trails, including Sanson's Peak and the South East Ridge Trail. Exploring the Canadian Rockies will also provide tourists the opportunity to encounter local wildlife such as Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, golden mantled ground squirrels, hoary marmots and Clark's nutcrackers. Banff Gondola Banff, Alberta T1L 1B2, Canada 403-762-2523 explorerockies.com
Niagara Parks
Local and foreign tourists can check out Niagara Parks to marvel at the beauty of Niagara Falls. Guests can ride the Maid of the Mist boats that take tourists on a half-hour ride to view Horseshoe Falls and the American Falls. Guests can also take the Journey Behind the Falls, with an elevator taking them down a tunnel behind Horseshoe Falls. Guests can even peep through the port-like openings in the tunnel to view the falls. Niagara Parks include White Water Walk and its class 6 rapids and two bi-level viewing platforms. Guests can also learn about the beginning of Niagara Falls through Niagara's Fury, a multimedia and multisensory learning attraction. Niagara Parks 7400 Portage Rd. S. Niagara Falls Ontario L2E 6T2, Canada 905-356-2241 niagaraparks.com
Algonquin Provincial Park
Algonquin Provincial Park features backcountry campsites and a vast landscape of maple hills, rocky ridges, spruce bogs and thousands of lakes, ponds and streams. Guests can also enjoy the 1,242 miles of canoe routes. Algonquin Provincial Park also serves as a venue for backpacking, with its backpacking trails that range from 3.7 miles to 54.6 miles in length. Guests can also stay at any of the historic range cabins of Algonquin Provincial Park. Tourists can also check out the museums and galleries at Algonquin Provincial Park. Algonquin Provincial Park Whitney, Ontario K0J 2M0, Canada 705-633-5572
Leaf Group is a USA TODAY content partner providing general travel information. Its content is produced independently of USA TODAY.
Photo Credits
- niagara falls image by IngoBoy from Fotolia.com
- Attribution: D. Gordon E. Robertson; License: GNU Free Documentation License, Version 1.2
- Attribution: Wladyslaw; License: Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license
- Attribution: Mightydrake; License: Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported license
- Attribution: s.yume; License: Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license


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From: Charlie Lofgren (firstname.lastname@example.com)
There's been a lot of recent interest on qrp-l in the W3EDP
antenna. This is an antenna with a 84 foot wire on one side of
the output port and a 17 foot wire on the other side. The 17
foot side is sometimes called a "counterpoise." Here's my "take"
on the antenna's operation, along with a suggestion or two:
To begin, the "counterpoise" isn't a real counterpoise, or at
least it doesn't function like the usual counterpoise (except on
20 meters). The normal function of a counterpoise is to
establish a point of minimum rf voltage or "ground" potential. A
quarter-wave length of wire does this when the far end is open.
(That's assuming it isn't detuned by nearby objects or by the
ground itself.) Except on 20 meters, where it is approximately a
quarter-wave long, the "counterpoise" part of the W3EDP antenna
doesn't fit the bill here. The best approach is to forget about
the short wire as a counterpoise.
To understand the W3EDP, instead conceive of the short side as
one side of a feedline that's been separated or pulled apart from
the other side of the feedline.
Now in your mind move the short side so that it's parallel to the
first 17 feet of the long side and anywhere from several inches
to a foot or so away. What you have is a section of feedline.
This gives you a standard *end-fed zepp* (in other words, a true
zepp antenna, as in zepplin flying), with a fundamental frequency
of about 7 MHz. The flattop portion is 67 feet long, and the
feedline is 17 feet long. The impedance of the feedline, which
is not critical, is somewhere in the vicinity of 500-800 ohms,
depending on wire diameter and spacing.
An end-fed zepp will work on its fundamental frequency and on odd
and even harmonic frequencies (that is, where the flattop is an
odd or even multiple of a half wave). With our W3EDP-derived
end-fed zepp, the antenna will work satisfactorily on 40, 20, 15,
and 10 meters.
The principle of operation is this: At the feedline end of the
half wave flattop (or multiple half wave flattop), the impedance
is *very* high. The impedance at the antenna end of the *open*
side of the feedline is also *very* high. (Were it not for
capacitive coupling to space and various objects, the impedance
at the antenna end of the open side of the feedline would be
infinitely high, but in reality the current never quite falls to
zero.) If the length of the flattop is properly adjusted, then
the currents on the two sides of the feedline are *roughly* in
balance, but out of phase, so not much radiation occurs from the
(If you're familiar with a j-pole antenna, it's the same
principle of operation. And with both the end-fed zepp and the
j-pole, there's controversy over whether they work quite as
they're alleged to. But that's another story, getting into fine
points of feedline balance and what happens at the antenna end of
the open side of the feedline. Also, the resonance of the
flattop on harmonic frequencies isn't exactly an odd or even
multiple of the fundamental frequency, owing to differing impacts
of nearby objects and of end effects. But that, too, can be put
aside in understanding why the W3EDP works.)
Now, if you start pulling the feedline apart, you start to get
more radiation from the two sides of it. If you move the short
side out of the vicinity of the long side, you don't have a
feedline effect at all and you have a W3EDP antenna. But--and
this is crucial to the W3EDP design--the currents at the
transmitter/tuner ends of the two wires are still roughly equal
and roughly out of phase. This means that you can connect them
to a link-coupled tuner without serious imbalance. And this
remains true on harmonic frequencies.
This also explains why, if you try to operate a "standard" W3EDP
on 30 meters, you may find significant hand-capacitance effects
as you try to adjust the tuner.
If you follow through the foregoing analysis, you will see that
there is nothing absolute about the 84 foot and 17 foot
dimensions. In general, what you need is a short side of x feet,
and a long side of (x + y) feet, where y is a half wave at the
lowest frequency. For example, you could set the two sides at 22
and 89 feet, for fundamental operation on 40 meters, and harmonic
operation on 20, 15, and 10 meters. This would likely not be a
good length for 15 meters, however, because the impedance at the
tuner would be quite high. (Think of the input impedance of a
half-wave length of feedline that's terminated in a high
impedance.) Indeed, the "standard" W3EDP is likely to have a
high feedpoint impedance on 10 meters, just as in the case of an
end-fed zepp fed with a half wave feedline. For 10 meters, the
22 and 89 foot dimensions would probably be better in terms of
keeping the impedance at the tuner within a satisfactory range.
An idea for including 30 meters in the W3EDP design is to have a
second short side to switch to. With the standard 84 foot length
for the long side, a short side of 38 feet should give reasonable
balance on 30 meters (the rough conceptual equivalent of a 46
foot flattop and a 38 foot feeder).
There is one *important* point to keep in mind. Unless the short
side is run fairly close to and parallel to lower portion of the
long side, there will be significant radiation from the short
side. This means that it is best *not* to have it on or close to
the ground (in the fashion of the usual counterpoise). If it's
close to ground, it will be radiating into a rather lossy
environment. In fact (without having modeled the different
configurations for comparisons, or having done actual comparative
tests), I'd say there is at least a theoretical advantage in
running the short side in true "feedline" fashion, within several
inches or a foot of the lower portion of the long side and
roughly parallel to it. (Or get the wires close to this
configuration.) The result will be more of the total radiation
occurring at a greater height and thus lower near-field ground
I've used a W3EDP with one of my z-matches, with no difficulty on
the indicated bands. I'd imagine the W3EDP design should pose no
problem with Roy Gregson's ZM-1 or ZM-2, either, although the two
output links in my design give a little more flexibility. A
standard link-coupled tuner (which L.B. carefully describes on
his Web site) should be fine, too. A single-ended tuner--L
network, T network, etc.--requires a balun (and that may present
its own problems.)
Charlie, w6jjz
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Woman's blood. Woman's power.
By: Marjory Mejia
I want to explore the taboo of woman's blood, unleash the sacred flow of our blood.
"Forbidden to profane use or contact because of what are held to be dangerous supernatural powers." ~ Miriam-Webster
"The prohibition of an action based on the belief that such behavior is either too sacred and consecrated or
too dangerous and accursed for ordinary individuals to undertake." ~ Britannica Online Encyclopedia
We don't talk about taboos because they inspire fear and awe. We exclude them from our conversation and they become hidden sore spots. Disguised. Distorted. Disfigured. Mistrusted mysteries of life. The true meaning of taboo connotes sacredness. Most taboos are left untouched, a reservoir of power, untapped.
Unfurling this blood taboo.
I realize that woman's blood is taboo: uncomfortable to many, including women. I encourage you to read through these words, follow their flow and let the discomfort melt away. Underneath the color of our skin, all women bleed the same, red, deep, ancient flow of life force. It is this power what makes the blood that naturally flows through a woman during her cycle seem taboo.
There is still a lot of stigma around woman's blood, menstruation, menses, moon. The lingering feeling that our periods are the punishment for being women. The notion that we stain the world with our blood. I remember my first period was not celebrated, in fact, quite the opposite; it caused sadness, a child no more, I had lost my innocence. But can innocence ever be lost? Can you be innocent while acquiring experience?
Menarche, our first blood is an initiation into womanhood, a rite of passage lost to modern culture. Ah the beautiful Blake's Songs of Innocence and Experience by William Blake. I can understand the sadness of my mother, a period ended and another one started. Transitions can be difficult. Imagine a ceremony to acknowledge some of the mother's pain but also the excitement of her little girl becoming woman.
We have disengaged from the beauty of our bodies and the processes that run through us.
What was once powerful is now seen as a source of shame. We hide, ignore, obstruct and diminish our own blood, we think it is dirty, but it is sacred. It is sacred flow. I recently listened to these woman's words about her own blood:
"It grosses me out." She said about her menstrual blood.
What grosses your out about it? I asked.
"Don't know. Associate it with pain. Injuries." She stated.
This blood comes from the life giving space of our womb. It saddens me to hear a woman speak of her own blood in this way. And yet, I understand the pain and its emotional source. When the blood that could have nurtured a life is lost as this flow that comes through us, we may experience pain as a primal feeling of loss for the life that didn't become. This may sound irrational but since when is pain rational? Nothing is lost, this blood wants to flow back into the earth, not the landfills. May we offer the earth our precious blood in sustainable ways, ways that keep the integrity of the earth intact.
Feeling our shame. Healing our pain.
This pain can stem from the ways in which we dishonor our center. The shaming of this sacred power makes us:
~ Block our emotions
~ Obstruct the flow of our blood
~ Keep quiet when we know in our belly that there is energy rising seeking expression
~ Give up on our dreams to make a man, a system, or society 'happy'
~ Forget ourselves to sustain others
~ Conform to draining schedules
~ Push ourselves when our cycles call for rest
~ Feel fed up in a system that fails to satisfy your deepest cravings, and yet stay
~ Silence our truth because we do not want to upset others
You don't have to continue to participate in this self deprecating system..
Celebrating our ancient wisdom.
Our sacred center longs to be experienced as it is, divine and in harmony with the earth. Our healing process inspires us to:
~ See our own innate beauty emanating from within
~ Spend time in nature
~ Honor our feelings and our body's wisdom
~ Liberate our emotions
~ Express ourselves
~ Slow down to listen and trust our intuition
~ Rest when our cycles call for it
~ Live according to a rhythm that sustains us
~ Awaken to our true desires
~ Gather in circles of women
~ Reclaim our own space
~ Help reveal new healing ways of living that bring peace
Accepting our power.
We experience cycles. We are not machines, we are organic beings with sleeping cycles, menstrual cycles, life cycles. Cycles. Women are naturally more in tune with the rhythms of nature since our bodies sexual system works in cycles. Once a month we bleed, sometimes in unison with other women when we commune together, a lost art that is being revived today.
Our blood cycles can be messy, bloody, but also life giving and cosmic. We bleed to the rhythm of the moon. There is great power in our blood. Since ancient times, women's ability to bleed from their womb was considered sacred, powerful, magical; that is, until the wisdom and power of body, woman, nature was desacralized.
Bleeding involves a sort of depletion essential for regeneration. It is a process of self renewal. Bleeding time used to be honored in ancient culture and still is in some tribal communities where women gather to nurture themselves during this part of their cycle. In our fast pace western culture women have to work to the same speed of men who do not have this organic life regenerating mechanism. The fact that women need to rest during their cycle implies no weakness, it speaks of wisdom. Too much speed without pauses of rest can lead to shallow life experiences and burnout.
We need rituals, ceremonies, rites of passage that honor our life transitions and life processes as we grow and expand.
It is time to honor and celebrate our womb, our beautiful shakti (feminine) power. There are traditions that revere feminine power. We have much to learn, to remember from them for our own healing process. In order to reconnect with our blood power, we need to reframe the way we think about our blood.
Forget about women having penis envy. It is the other way around. Sigmund Freud got it wrong! In Metaformic theory, in Blood, Bread, and Roses: How Menstruation Created the World, Judy Grahn attributes the development of culture to women. Men were originally fearful of women's power to produce blood once a month. It is a mystery to be able to offer blood to the earth. Men had to inflict injuries to touch blood with their hands. This is how the bellicose nature of man got started, with his thirst for woman's blood, woman's power.
When I am on my moon, I feel a special power. I know this power will also cycle and show up differently at various times of my life. For now, while I can bleed, I marvel at my body opening to spirit flowing through me in this visceral, ancestral way. If you are a bleeding woman, know that life's mystery is revealing itself through you. Slowly befriend, honor, bless, and trust your flow, your life force. Your cycle is sacred and so are you.
22 responses to "Woman's blood. Woman's power."
So interesting, this…. I'm having so many emotions coming up in reading this post as well (as I did with the weight post over with Limitless Megan).
a) I love reading about cycles…womens cycles, sleep cycles, lunar cycles, general cycles of nature… any of it. I'm absolutely fascinated by the way everything comes together so perfectly with all of these cycles. Miraculous, really.
b) Having my period has always been so hard for me to deal with. There were so many months when I just had no idea what was going on, if I'd get one (and when… it was always a big surprise… and when at work and unprepared, not a pleasant one). I finally worked out a form of contraception that works for me and also limits my periods… what are your thoughts on that, since it's unnatural?
I also believe in and honor the sacred power of my moon cycle!
But I didn't always.
There was a time I thought it was an problem to deal with and a complete hassle. It was uncomfortable and messy!
Then I started honoring my feminine energy more and spending time in circle with other women, and I recognized the beauty and the power that come with it.
I often think about the book the Red Tent and how they honored their cycles-coming together to nurture each other. I thought it was beautiful how they cherished the coming of age of their daughters and gave the first blood and virginity to the Earth Mother.
Now I find that I welcome my blood. I give myself down time to relax and nurture myself. I do my best to harness the natural ebb and flow of energy throughout the month and not trying to force my way through.
As I get older- I have mixed emotions about the day that my cycles get farther and farther apart and slowly disappears. I'm 46 now, so I feel the time is getting near.
Thanks for opening up this conversation!
Ah this is such a timely post I think. More and more I see women who are coming to embrace and accept their moontime for the sacred, empowering, cycle that it is! I was raised to honor and respect my blood and that honor and respect was conveyed through the use of rituals just as you suggest Marjory. It seems to me that creating space to honor our periods and whatever feelings we may have as we go through them is essential to forming a loving relationship with our bodies and our selves. Lovely!
Interesting! I have to admit, this is a whole new topic for me — never even heard about the moon association. But I can see the connection and it gives me a reason to think something other than negative thoughts next time it comes around for me. Thanks for opening a door to new ideas….
Reading your story of your mom's reaction made me think of my mom – for her "becoming a woman" opened a door full of pain and abuse, I think idea of my becoming a woman instilled a kind of fear for me in her. I agree, ritual and ceremony are the way to reclaim that and to teach "becoming a woman" as something worthy of celebration.
What a new perspective! :) I am one of those that dislikes that time of the month, but you presented such an interesting point of view I had not considered! Thanks for sharing!
I love this, Marjory.
Just yesterday my 15-year-old daughter was complaining about a number of things and in the midst said, "And if that wasn't enough, that BITCH, Mother Nature, has to give me cramps!" I nearly came unglued…though I didn't. First at the language (another talk the two of us are yet to have), but more, at her anger and frustration at her own body.
She knew this would get a rise out of me as I've often talked of women's cycles, the power of the moon, our deep and intrinsic rhythm. This has always been met with rolling eyes (she is 15), but I have wondered how to inculcate an appreciation and even marvel at her own body's capacity for regeneration, creativity, birth, life.
It's an age-old story: women's shame, silencing, and even sequestering in this particular context. It's a story that needs to be rewritten and redeemed. I'm grateful you are doing so.
Hi Marjory!
It's never an accident that you're on my twitter and I found you there in perfect time! I am in love with this story! So much healing energy surrounds you!
I was brought up, raised and born from empowered women, my abuela came from a line of strong indigenous indianmexican family and I heard this sacred space as a source of power when I was young…but modern life took over me, I had that disconnect with myself, and it's only for the last few years that I'm reconnecting this energy where we swim, to heal myself and those around me..
Thank you for the beautiful article!
Hello Marjory,
I love your website and I love this article. One of my favorite all-time books is the Red Tent so I hope you were able to read it- your beautiful healing words resonate with the rituals captured in that book. My daughter is 8 and I will do my best to guide her with celebration and ritual when she crosses over the river into the next stage of her journey as a woman.
with joy and love,
Laurie Cameron
This is just so inspiring. My daughter was 12 when she first received her sacred moon and we had a moon ceremony to honor her in that way. All the women gave her gifts, she experienced a moon womb ceremony for the first time in her life. She was so happy, glowing, we experienced meditation, kundalini yoga, gongs, dancing, eye gazing and a mini Taino ceremony, which is part of our indigenous roots, we even called in the 4 directions, thanked our ancestors as well as our mothers and grandmothers! It was totally a beautiful experience for her.
I'm so glad to be walking these ways, and embracing my woman hood, my power and my rites. I loved this website thank you so much Marjory! I ran in to this by total accident, trying to explain to a woman I work with why it's so important to embrace our cycle, rather than hate it. She still wasn't convinced afterwards. It sounds crazy to her. :) I hope she finds the healing she needs.
Dear Marjory Mejia,
The Pleiades told me to search behind "The Taboos of Blood". And I found your lovely blog. Thank you.
Michael Toerosen in Sweden
Renegade member of Light, systems buster, available for altering system of consciousness within the free will universe.
When I was about 13 an aunt told me about this because I suffer from really bad cramps, but I though it was just crazy talk, I wanted something to aid my pain ASAP, but as I get older (28) and every month is the same thing, pain, sickness, mood swings, it's tiring and got me even considering removing my ovaries to not have to deal with it anymore. And doing some research about it I came across your page, by some miracle?! I don't know lol but the fact is, this really touched me and gave me a whole new hope and perspective! I'm actually on my period right now and for the first time, I feel PROUD! :) Thanks! Maybe my aunt wasn't crazy after all! hehe
[…] story breaks a taboo. I have a voice inside that tells me that this is too intimate and raw to share with the world. But […]


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Today's Daily Post blog challenge:
Write about the subject you usually blog about as if you were a music critic.
Source: Critical Eye | The Daily Post
I wrote about a fictional music group called "Inspiration" since I often write on that subject.
Inspiration recorded their album entirely in an abandoned church thought to be haunted. Damien Riley does a fairly good job with the lyrics and the music is already being nominated for a few grammys. They have vowed the impossible, to post a blog post every day.
"What inspires me, I share." -guitarist/blogger Damien Riley.
"We'll see how much the public likes our unique style." Inspiration are the band to watch this year, in this humble critic's opinion.
Inspiration puts out its best set of potential hits yet:
Partial Track (Blog Post) Listing:
- 20 Blogging Tips
- The Road Less Traveled
- Empathy and Friendliness
- Accept Everything
- A Buffalo Statue and Life as Art
- Vibrant Photos Engage Students
- Elsewhere, California
Follow Inspiration at Riley Central in 2016.


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The term Bildungsroman is generally applied to a novel about education (in the wide sense), and all round self-development. Most of the best examples of Bildungsroman genre are German. Wieland's Agathan (1765) was the first novel to be classed under the Bildungsroman Genre.
A bildungsroman generally relates to the protagonist in a story who goes on a journey away from home due to a feeling of discontent or loss.
As the plot of the novel unfolds, a process of the protagonist's development can be identified.
The protagonist generally goes through an arduous battle from within, towards maturity. The desires and dreams of the protagonist tend to go against the ways of a rigid social system.
At the end of the story the protagonist matures and starts to fit into the system. The protagonist goes through self-reflection and self-assessment.
Taking into consideration the general aspects of what classifies a novel as Bildungsroman, Great Expectations fits in a number of ways.
Pip, the Protagonist in Great Expectations, has a strong desire and ambition to become an educated gentleman. Pip find out that he has a secret benefactor that sends him away from his home and true friends to London to be educated, and trained as a gentleman. As the story develops we witness a number of dramatic changes in Pip's personality. He goes through a number of battles with his conscience. Pip desires to be a gentleman go against his inner feelings. He realizes that wealth and social advancement don't always bring happiness. At the end of Great Expectations we see Pip in a completely different light. Pips story is about self-development, but not in the way that Pip originally planned. Pip's development is moral. He learns the importance of affection, loyalty and friendship. He also realizes how...


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Meet up with other Local Food enthusiasts in the "always talked about" Vernon County and Viroqua. Drive in on Wednesday afternoon and start at 3 p.m. at the Vernon Economic Development Association's Food Enterprise Center – 1201 North Main Street, Viroqua, WI 54665 for an afternoon and evening of tours, wine-tasting, and an incredible dinner. Summit attendees are encouraged to participate before the Summit. Non-Summit attendees are able to do this separately.
To register, go to the registration form at WLFN Summit & Pre-Summit Registration Form. Complete the registration form and separately go to payment to pay on-line. To pay via phone, call 262-675-6755 or by mail send check made payable to WLFN to, WLFN, 4382 Hickory Road, West Bend, WI 53090.


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The bunny earrings in red with white polka dots. These enameled black bunnies are hand painted with attention to detail on a pristine stainless steel base, then protected with a high quality resin finish.
Created with a quirky and eclectic artisan design and a touch of retro vintage feel. A beautiful gift to make someone special smile.
The bunny earrings earrings are 0.4″ (1 cm) high. The rest on stainless poles. If you'd care for customizations to these handmade stud earrings, we'd love to personalize them for you — simply send us a note to discuss your plans!


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Expectations Rising for
Housing Market's Spring Season
By Julie Schmit 04/02/2012 USA Today
The spring home-selling season could be the strongest in years and may foreshadow which markets will lead a battered housing industry in an anemic recovery, economists say.
"This spring will be the litmus test for housing demand," says Steven Ricchiuto, chief economist for Mizuho Securities USA.
The spring season typically runs March through June but may have started early this year because of unseasonably warm weather.
While last year was dismal for existing home sales, this year is looking better. Existing home sales in February were up 9% from the same time a year ago, as was the Pending Home Sale Index, which reflects signed contracts leading to sales, says the National Association of Realtors.
Meanwhile, Realtors' confidence in the single-family home market is the highest in four years, according to a late February NAR survey of 4,300 agents. Coldwell Banker says its website's traffic was up 47% in February from last year.
This spring season "will be the best in four or five years," says economist Paul Dales of Capital Economics. Read More >
By CARRIE BAY 04/02/2012 DSNews.com
Despite the fact that key market indicators released in recent weeks have shown declines in home sales, anecdotal reports from real estate agents in the field suggest "better days are ahead for the industry," according to commentary released Monday by the economic team at Wells Fargo Securities, LLC.
Even builders – who've endured possibly the steepest drop-off in business over this downturn – are optimistic heading into the spring, the economists note.
As a result, Wells' economic team has nudged its forecast for home sales slightly higher, as the spring selling season appears to have gotten off to a strong start. They are now expecting sales of existing homes to top out at 4.50 million in 2012 and rise to 4.65 million in 2013. These annual projections compare to 4.26 million existing homes sold in 2011.
"While employment conditions have clearly improved and consumer confidence and spending have risen, we remain concerned about the lack of real after-tax income growth.
That said, the anecdotal evidence is hard to dismiss," the economists write.
Most real estate agents are reporting "significant gains in buyer interest and sales," and these gains are organic rather than incentive induced, according to the Wells Fargo economic team. Read More >
To search an entire database of homes for sale in real-time with photos, descriptions, and community information, visit my website:www.premiermarylandhomes.com
Rick Reed, G.R.I., CDPE- Certified Distressed Property Expert
Assoc. Broker/Owner "The Congressional Team" RE/MAX
Licensed in MD & Wash DC
8937 Shady Grove Court
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Cell: 301-742-1172
Office: 240-403-0399 X306
Can I help a friend or family member with their Real Estate needs? You can count on me!


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Alpina used the 83rd edition of the Geneva Motor Show to display two models. The first was the firm's latest version of the B3. British drivers will have to wait until the summer for the saloon and touring versions of Alpina's latest take on the BMW 3-Series, but the car was on display at the motor show along with its specs, which suggest that the B3 Biturbo will be worth the wait.
The German firm say that the B3 contains modifications that are their most "in-depth even undertaken" on the 3-Series. To justify that claim they've uprated the twin-turbo 3.0 litre so it produces 404 hp and 442lb ft of torque. The BMW straights-six engine is attached to an eight speed gearbox that helps the saloon version accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 4.2 secs. The economy is a reasonable 37.2 mpg combined and the CO2 emissions of 177g/km are pretty good for a car whose top speed is 190 mph.
The chassis has been uprated to accept the power and the styling has been changed subtly, so there are Alpina badges where you would expect to find them and the car sits on custom alloy wheels, both of which will make it stand out from other 3-Series models on the road. Alpina are planning a four-wheel drive version, but it won't come to Britain as there are no plans for a right-hand drive version.
Aside from the 3-Series based B3, Alpina are also using the 2013 Geneva Motor Show to reveal the XD3 Biturbo. Like the B3 it's powered by a 3.0 litre straight six engine, but the 345 hp and 526lb ft of torque the engine generates comes from diesel power. The top speed is 146 mph and it will reach 62 mph in less than 5.0 seconds. This is the firm's first SUV, so perhaps they will branch out into other segments of the market as BMW continue to do so.


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A focus on development using a high-potential employee program provides the organization with a competitive advantage through the retention of top talent with advanced skill sets. Use this blueprint to:
- Determine the necessary means to implement a high-potential program.
- Aid in implementation of the program within the organization.
- Convey transparency to employees regarding the program.
- Set metrics to track the success of a high-potential program.
A high-potential program allows an organization to properly develop the skill sets of employees who will become future leaders.


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As your baby gets older, he or she will move into the era of baby food! Will there be messes?
You bet, but with this basic guide to introducing baby food, you will be one step ahead of everyone else.
This article contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase anything, I receive a commission. It doesn't change the price at all. For more information, please see my Disclosure/Advertising page.
Now, let's get started introducing baby foods to your little one:
Cues to know when baby is ready
While a lot of pediatricians (mine included) recommend waiting until at least 4-6 months old before you start introducing baby food, there are a few cues to look for to know they are ready.
1. They look interested when you eat in front of them
2. They are starting to sit up with assistance, and would be able to do alright in a high chair
What to start first and stages of baby food
Introducing baby food can come with its own set of challenges like what baby food should you start first? The first food I tried with both of my kids was baby cereal.
Now, some kids like the baby cereal and others don't.
If your baby falls into the not a fan category, the next food you should try would be a simple fruit or vegetable (apples/bananas/greenbeans/peas).
After you are comfortable with the simple foods, you can move on to baby food with more than one thing in it. One of my son's favorite Beechnut baby foods is sweet corn and green beans!
If you opt for the already made baby food, they have numbers on the containers for certain age groups. Stage 1 is for 4 months old, stage 2 is for 6 months old, and stage 3 is 8 months old.
Now these age groups are not set in stone. You can try a new stage out when you feel your baby is ready.
The exception is to avoid starting stage 3 until they are really good at eating food. Usually stage 3 food has bits for them to chew up, and it is no longer just a puree.
Start slow and expect messes
When baby is just starting out on baby foods, they do this thing with their tongue to swallow and it ends up pushing a lot of the baby food back out of their mouth.
This is why you should start slow.
You don't want to put a lot of food in your baby's mouth when you are introducing baby foods, or they could choke.
As you can imagine, this tongue reflex is also the cause of a lot of messes. Stay calm.
Messes can be cleaned up.
This is one of the reasons why you will want bibs to save those adorable outfits from stains. That leads me into my next point about know the foods that stain.
Baby's First Foods Chart
To help you keep track of what foods baby liked and foods baby didn't, I created this fun printable. Get your free copy sent directly to your email, just fill in the details below.
Know your food
When it comes to introducing baby food, it is important to know your food. In particular, know which food stains, which food causes constipation, and which food makes baby go #2.
Which food stain?
The list is rather long, which is why bibs will be a clothing saver for sure!
What I have found to be the worst culprit of stains are any food groups that are red and orange (beets, pomegranates, raspberries, pasta sauce, cranberries, sweet potatoes, carrots, and squash) and also blueberries.
Now, it's not to say that you shouldn't avoid introducing these baby foods, but just try to get it washed off right away!
Which baby food constipates?
One thing you will want to know when you are introducing baby food is which food constipates a baby. Constipated babies are fussy, and it's really no fun for anyone.
These are the worst offenders of constipation: bananas, baby cereal, apples, and anything dairy. I would recommend that if you are feeding your baby one of these, to also give him/her a food that does the opposite.
Which foods help baby go number two?
Having a constipated baby is no fun, but these foods can help alleviate the constipation: prunes, green vegetables, prune juice, and apple juice.
What you can do to prevent constipation is that if you are feeding baby bananas (or another food that causes constipation), give him/her some apple/prune juice (1 mL juice + 2 mL water).
This helps proactively prevent constipation from occurring when you are introducing baby food to your baby's diet.
Alternate between fruits and vegetables
When introducing baby food, it's important to alternate between fruits and vegetables. This way your baby gets a variety of healthy foods, and doesn't start to favor the sweeter foods and refuse the veggies.
Some baby foods like Beechnut offer a blend of both fruits and veggies which even some of the pickiest eaters will eat!
Be prepared with these items
There are a few necessities you will need when it comes to introducing baby food to your little one's diet.
Chances are you probably have some of them especially if you have used my article on baby registry must haves.
I have hit hard on bibs because these are such an important thing to have.
They keep food (mostly) off baby's outfit and also work as a napkin when wiping the food off of your baby when you have no other napkins around.
You can purchase these here on Amazon.
The next thing you will need when you begin introducing baby food is a highchair. It holds baby in a chair that is more up to your level which makes feeding your baby easier.
Not only that, highchairs are nice to have when you are preparing dinner, and can't hold baby. I did this a lot with both of my kids.
I would put some toys on the tray and they could play and still see where I was at.
I used this high chair that you can find here on Amazon.
Since my kids are close in age, I ended up buying a second one after my son was born because my 2 year old still uses hers.
Spoons and bowls
The last things you will need to make introducing baby food easy will be spoons and bowls. Baby spoons are nice because they are small and soft on your baby's gums.
Not only that, some will actually change colors if the food is too hot.
I personally like the munchkin baby spoons that can be found here on Amazon which turn white when it's holding something too hot.
I also liked to have baby bowls to serve the baby food out of. What I really liked about these bowls on Amazon were that they had lids so you could store them and use them when you needed.
Baby Brezza baby food maker
Maybe you have often thought about making your own baby food, and if so a Baby Brezza might be the way to go for you.
It's a lot of information to absorb at once.
If you take anything away, it should be that you should look for cues before you start introducing baby food.
Start slow with simple fruits and vegetables, and make sure you have the necessary items to start feeding baby food to your little one.
Please share and also pin this so you can look back at it as a reference when you need. Also, feel free to subscribe to my newsletter where you can stay up to date on the sweet advice from one mom to another.


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The Jamis Road Taxi is a 26″ single-speed beach cruiser bike with coaster brake. It features an adjustable seat height (no tools needed) and padded handlebars. This is the perfect bike for getting around the OBX. Remember, to use a bike light (frog light) with night riding! Please Bike Safely, NC Bicycle Laws & Policies here!
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The Taxi saddle is as comfortable as it gets, with an extra-thick 3 mil cover to resist puncture, a flat top that won't pool water when the Taxi is parked in the rain, box section rails that will never bend, and double-loop springs that comfortably support passengers.
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Our comfort tires have been designed to roll smoothly on pavement, but offer a large 2.125″ footprint so that rides on park paths can be managed securely. The additional benefit of that big footprint is larger air volume in the tire and tube, which results in lower air pressure for a more comfortable ride than tires with smaller volumes and higher air pressures.
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Our cruise-control handlebars were designed to promote a comfortable no-weight-on-the-wrists riding position. With just the right sweep and rise, these handlebars meet the rider's hands without requiring a forward bend at the waist, relieving pressure on the back of the neck. Handlebar width has also been carefully calculated so that when steered from left to right it does not contact the rider, unlike many other cruiser-style handlebars.


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There was a time when no one wanted to hear Elliott Yamin sing. "I was always loud, interrupting my mom on the phone or my brother doing his homework," the 27-year-old Virginian recalls with a laugh. "I would annoy everybody."
Today, it's a different story. Yamin may have come in third on American Idol, but he endeared himself to millions during its record-breaking fifth run. (As of May 30, an AOL poll placed him fifth on its "Best Idol of All Time" list. Winner Taylor Hicks tied for third; runner-up Katharine McPhee tied for sixth.)
Elliott's graceful, grateful farewell was the kind of two-hanky sobfest usually seen on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. In just a few short months, the guy with the bowl haircut, chinstrap beard, goofy grin and health issues partial deafness and diabetes was transformed from a kid in hip-hop threads to a charismatic, smart-dressed crooner. His mom, Claudette Yamin, summed it up when she saw her son dressed in white in the May 22 edition of TV Guide: "Elliott looks sexy."
The change was more than cosmetic. As Idol turned his self-described "pipe dream" of a music career into a reality, he was the lovable mutt who, some would argue, became the best-in-show. Even host Ryan Seacrest asked on air what had happened to the old Elliott. "That guy is gone," the singer replied with a smile.
That guy was born Efraym Elliott Yamin in Los Angeles to Claudette, a former big-band singer, and Israeli Shaul Yamin. "My dad was a part-time [house] painter and part-time layabout," Elliott says. After his parents moved the family to Richmond, Virginia, their marriage ended and Claudette, Elliott and his younger brother, Scott, moved into an apartment. Elliott was 14 when his parents split. "It definitely hurt," he says of the breakup, after which, he says, "my mom had to turn into Supermom."
Elliott suffered from ear infections that eventually caused 90 percent hearing loss in his right ear. He left high school his sophomore year. Then, at 16, he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. He lived at home and subsisted on menial jobs, but he found a champion and role model in Tony Klisiewicz, the manager of a Foot Locker who gave him a job on the condition that he earn his GED. "I didn't want to see him fail," Klisiewicz has said.
Elliott, who used to turn out the lights to sing in front of friends, was encouraged to go for Idol after waltzing off with the $1,000 first prize at a karaoke contest last year. He and his girlfriend, Amanda Parker, tried out in Boston. While she didn't make it through the auditions, he quickly became a Paula Abdul favorite. "She has a big heart, like I do," Elliott says of the woman he reduced to tears.
Though he acknowledges that his songs could've been more accessible he favored semi-obscure Donny Hathaway tunes Elliott chose the music he loves. He's eager to get the "E-train" rolling on the American Idol tour. For the July 29 stop in his hometown, 9,000 tickets sold out in less than 15 minutes, besting the tour led by Ruben Studdard and Clay Aiken in 2003. And he hopes to release a classic R&B record.
"Elliott was a little lost boy," Claudette says. "This is what he was looking for." Her son echoes her words. "Before Idol, I was lost.... Now I've actually followed through with something. I am a better man for it!"
Send in your comments about this article to email@example.com.


text:
From the Gabriella Plus Size range, the Cher stockings are designed specifically for those who need extra width rather than length. They're 15 denier with added Lycra for durability and come at a great low price.
We send parcels WORLDWIDE from our warehouse in the UK. Most orders leave the same day or next working day. All orders are sent in plain packaging. Standard delivery is just £1.75 for the UK, £5.95 for Europe and £7.50 for the rest of the world. Standard delivery is FREE on UK orders over £25.
If you're unsure about a product you've purchased, you can return it for a refund or exchange at any time within 60 days.
To place an order, ask for advice, or if you have a query about an existing order, please call us on 0207 1188 116 (+44 207 1188 116 from overseas) or email email@example.com.


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News - Toyota
Q1 sales put Toyota back on top
Toyota regains biggest car-maker title in Q1, but GM, VW set to overtake by year-end
14 May 2012
TOYOTA'S global first-quarter sales of 2.49 million vehicles places it above General Motors (2.28 million), enabling it to re-claim world vehicle sales leadership.
The figures mark a strong 18.4 per cent recovery after Toyota's natural disaster-addled 2011, when full-year sales for the Japanese giant fell six per cent to 7.95 million units, enabling GM and Volkswagen Group to overtake with respective volumes of 9.03 million and 8.16 million.
If Toyota can keep selling vehicles at the rate it did in Q1 for the remaining three quarters, it is in with a chance of reigning supreme with 9.96 million sales.
However, it has forecast 8.58 million sales by the end of this year and 8.7 million for its 2013 financial year ending March 31 2013, suggesting the first-quarter spike was caused pent-up demand from last year's lost production.
It is therefore unlikely Toyota will stay on top when full calendar year sales results come in, especially as GM was up 2.7 per cent in Q1 and VW Group reported 9.6 per cent growth (to 2.16 million units) for the same period.
The Renault-Nissan Alliance also threatens to put Toyota in fourth place, having sold 8.03 million vehicles last year – but the result included 637,000 sales from Russian subsidiary AvtoVaz, in which it does not yet have a controlling stake.
Alliance partner Nissan posted a ¥545.8 billion ($A6.8 billion) operating profit in the 2011-12 financial year ending March 31, up 1.6 per cent – surpassing rival Toyota, which saw profits drop 31 per cent to ¥283 billion ($A2.97b).
For the 2013 financial year, Toyota expects to bounce back to a net profit of ¥760 billion ($A9.48 billion), which if achieved, will be the company's best result in five years and likely to outgun GM, which posted a $US1 billion ($A999.1 million) first-quarter profit.
Toyota's first-quarter profit increased to ¥121 billion ($A1.5b) as production climbed 36 per cent, underpinned by a recovering Japanese market in which it recorded 714,000 sales.
The North American market and other parts of Asia (mainly China) also rebounded, with respective first-quarter sales of 604,000 and 433,000 units.
In Australia, Toyota's first quarter sales were down 1.1 per cent against a market that grew 4.7 per cent, but a turnaround last month saw year-to-date sales increase 3.9 per cent.
The company is committed to achieving a 22 per cent sales increase across its Toyota and Lexus brands in Australia by the end of this year, signifying its best performance since 2008 when it managed a combined 245,563 units.
Growth will be aided by the planned release of at least 19 new or upgraded models for the Toyota brand this year – including the 11th-generation Corolla hatch due to arrive around October.
In an effort to cut bureaucracy and deliver more exciting products in a quicker, more cost-effective manner, Toyota has also restructured its product development process and plans to introduce three new front-drive platforms to be shared across regions and expected to account for half of the company's global volume.
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14th of May 2012
Nissan eclipses Toyota profit for the first time
Record car sales drive Nissan to $6.8 billion profit, with more good news to come
10th of May 2012
Toyota aims to double profit
Fresh product wave in crisis-free global climate to help boost Toyota sales, profit
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Argentina ruined the Murrayfield festivities as they beat Scotland 9-6 on Saturday, a week after the Scots historic win over Australia.
Scotland had hoped for a clean sweep of their Autumn Internationals, after they had beaten Fiji, then Australia in successive weeks.
Phil Godman kicked two penalties to give Scotland a first half lead, but it was Argentinas Martin Rodriguez who kicked two of his own in the second half, then clinched victory for the visitors with a late dropgoal.
The scalp of Argentina, third place at the 2007 World Cup, would have meant a dream start for coach Andy Robinson. Former Captain Jason White believes that Robinson will make huge changes for Scottish rugby.
"I have worked under four Scotland regimes in my nine or so years on the Test scene – at the start there was Ian McGeechan with Jim Telfer and then Matt Williams followed by Frank Hadden, he said.
"Now Andy is the man in charge and his approach is completely different to all the others. He and his management team are doing things his way and I believe it is the right way.
Okay we lost, which was hugely disappointing. But the bottom line is that we do have an excellent squad of coaches, managers and players at the moment.
"I'm convinced that two wins out of three spells out that we have the makings of a bright future.
Argentina played a far better game in the second half, and combined with errors and a sending off from the home side, got themselves in a position to win the match.
"We lost against England playing well but with some mistakes. Then we didn't play well against Wales," coach Santiago Phelan said.
"This game was very important for us. To get a good result is very important for the continuity of this team."


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10 0
We apologize, but this item is no longer available.
false pdp {"scheme":"product1_cr"}
false pdp {"scheme":"product2_cr"}
Hello Coco Doormat is rated out of 5 by 92.
Rated 5 out of 5 by Lobers from Love it! I was concerned because doormats like this can be messy. This one is not! It's heavy and looks great!
Date published: 2019-05-09
Rated 5 out of 5 by Dede10 from Beautiful I received the Hello Coco Doormat in black and it looks beautiful at our front door.
Date published: 2019-03-28
Rated 5 out of 5 by michele_m from Coco door mat It is nice and heavy, so will not blow up/away in the FL storms. It is thick and substantial and high. Love everything about it. It makes me smile upon entering my own home.
Date published: 2019-03-21
Rated 1 out of 5 by Marybeth22 from Dissappointed I ordered this doormat 11/21 and did not start using it until early January. In just a few months it is already worn. When I moved it to sweep our porch I found stains on the concrete. Power washing did not get the stains out. Very disappointed in the quality of this doormat.
Date published: 2019-03-15
Rated 5 out of 5 by Snowwoman from Hello....hafta love this! I bought the black one for our patio entry door. It's thick, good quality, and a nice size. So far, so good.
Date published: 2019-01-24
Rated 2 out of 5 by Erin123 from Looks nice, but sheds tremendously and fades This is my second hello mat from grandinroad. The first one I thought was just a dud, but now I with my second mat I am sure it's just the way this mat is. It just continues to shed and shed despite brushing it, leaf blowing it, and beating it. I think for the price this mat is not worth it. Too much shedding and fading of the letters.
Date published: 2019-01-01
Rated 5 out of 5 by KTWF from So cute! This mat looks so good at our front door. Didn't realize we needed this so much.
Date published: 2018-11-26
Rated 5 out of 5 by LadyDi12 from Hello Door Mat Great quality! Looks so cute on the front porch!!
Date published: 2018-11-19
I recently received the black "hello" larger coir mat and placed it at the protected front door. Wiping my boots on the mat today I noticed movement on the mat and saw flying insects coming from the coir fibers! This is our first coir mat. Unhappy now.
Thank you for your interest in the Hello Coco Doormat. We're very sorry to hear your having issues with your doormat. For better assistance please contact our Product Specialist Department at 800-491-4958. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Date published: 2019-06-13
Does this doormat have a rubber backing?
Thank you for your interest in the Hello Coco Doormat. This mat is 100% natural coir and does not have a rubber backing.
Date published: 2019-05-18
How deep is the rug? 1 inch or 2"?
Thank you for your interest in the Hello Coco Doormat. This doormat is 1.5" thick.
Date published: 2019-05-16
Can I return this mat if the shedding doesn't stop and the the letters are very faded due to severe shedding? Thank you.
Thank you for your interest in the Hello Coco Door Mat. Please call in to the Product Specialist Department at 800-491-4938 and they can assist you with this issue.
Date published: 2018-06-29
Your Hello coco mat is the lenght39 and width 24?
Thank you for your interest in the Hello Coco Door Mat. The longer side is across the bottom and top of the word. This mat comes in 24" x 39" and 30" x 48" sizes.
Date published: 2018-05-04
Can you measure the pile of this mat?
Based on some reviews, I want to make sure it's not too thick and cause the front door from jamming. Thank you
This mat is almost 1 3/4 inch thick!
Date published: 2017-08-31
Does this mat shed?
Yes, terribly. After only a couple of weeks the letters are fading off of it.
Date published: 2017-12-09
Product:150611-Hello Coco Doormat


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Pause/Resume M24/M25 Help
code17 01 Apr 2016 22:10
I'm trying to pause the printer then move the print head out of the way before resuming with [G0 Z300]
When I resume with M25 the printer resumes printing at the new height of of 300mm above the bed until the layer completes. Then it moves back down to the proper z height. Can anyone let me know how I can overcome this?
Unfold Pause/Resume M24/M25 Help by code17, 01 Apr 2016 22:10


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Price: $23.00
Quantity: 1 available
Book Condition: As New
First Edition/First Printing. 1969. A rare copy in unread condition with a V/G D/J with slight edgewear to front bottom corners. (unclipped $4.95)---now protected in a glassine jacket. Green decorated cloth in gilt lettering with a blind stamp "emblem" of the Philosophical Library on front board. One of three copies. The author's insight into "philosophical, historical, and social conditions of the present world".
Title: THE BEGINNING SPRING
Categories: Other,
Publisher: NEW YORK , PHILOSOPHICAL LIBRARY : 1969
Binding: Decorative Cloth
Book Condition: As New
Jacket Condition: Very Good
Item: 1.00 Item
Seller ID: cfe10218
Keywords: Religion, Philosophy, Jewish


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the film
U.S. Seeks Trash Boom Repair
by PennWell
WALLA WALLA, Wash. -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers seeks bids to repair a trash shear boom at the 810-MW Lower Granite hydroelectric project in Washington. Bids are due Dec. 23.
The Corps' Walla Walla District awarded a contract in May to Hydro Consulting & Maintenance Services Inc. for cavitation repair at Lower Granite on the Snake River.
In a solicitation set aside for small businesses, the Corps seeks bids to repair the trash shear boom, a floating structure in the forebay that is designed to direct floating trash and debris away from the powerhouse turbine intakes. The boom consists of five spans held in position by four intermediate floats, which are held in place by two anchors, with a chain-wire rope hardware system linking the anchors to the intermediate floats.
The Corp said some wire ropes have broken and are replaced temporarily by poly ropes. One anchor was replaced permanently in the winter of 2006-2007. The agency now seeks replacement of the remaining seven anchor line systems. The work is valued at between $500,000 and $1 million.
A solicitation notice may be obtained from the Federal Business Opportunities Internet site, www.fbo.gov, by entering Solicitation No. W912EF12B0003 in the "Keyword/Solicitation #" box.
Bids are due Dec. 23. For information, contact Elaine M. Vandiver, Corps of Engineers, 201 N. Third Ave., Walla Walla, WA 99362; (1) 509-527-7221; E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com.
learn more on topics covered in the film
see the video
read the script
learn the songs
discussion forum


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Boat & Marine Batteries & Chargers Batteries
Boat & Marine Batteries and Accessories
In this section we will guide you to the correct Boat Battery or Leisure Batteries that you require. You can also choose by amperage (AH capacity) using the quick filters above. For more Narrowboat information click here.
We sell all the top leisure brands like Numax, Lucas, Varta, ABS Leisure and Trojan. You can choose from sealed and non sealed units and we can supply a range of flooded lead acid, Absorbed glass mat and even Gel type batteries.
Simply select a category below.
ABS Boat & Marine Batteries (41)
Lucas Dual Purpose Batteries (3)
Numax Dual Purpose Batteries (11)
Varta Professional Boat & Marine Batteries (6)
Trojan & US Marine Batteries (17)
Low Profile Height Boat & Marine Batteries (13)
Boat / Marine Battery Chargers (9)
Narrowboat Batteries (33)
Non Sealed Boat & Marine Batteries (25)
Electric Outboard Motor Batteries (23)
Boat Engine Starter Batteries (24)
Our Boat & Marine Batteries & Chargers battery delivery service is available throughout the U.K.
If you have any queries about our Boat & Marine Batteries & Chargers product range then telephone our FreePhone number shown below.
0800 195 98 97
( from U.K. Landlines only. Mobiles are charged at local rates )


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All things sold on Lazada are covered below the one hundred{8fb7401929f054431d7dc27f6c5465a6f123d1a395e2ced2a38862b4381b8cbb} Purchaser Protection and/or Satisfaction Assured. The most current Steampunk clothing consists of accessories such as opera glasses, beaver hats, pocket watches, and monocles among other issues. Manufacturers introduced shoes for sport, for particular athletic activities, and footwear that could match any outfit. By 1914, women's clothing had lost the rigid, tailored lines of the Edwardian period, and the types of fashion's first fantastic design and style genius, Paul Poiret, obliterated the require for tight-fitting corsets. I at present have a wool coat (red) that I get a lot of compliments on. I have 3 coats actually-all in different colors. In the 1920's Womens swimsuits evolved from getting dark-colored, heavy, baggy and rather ugly encumbrances to kind-fitting and light-weight colorful bathing costumes. I am trying to date some old photos primarily based on the women's clothes and came upon your post/s in my analysis.
Amazon wants to make your buying experience as hassle-free as achievable, which is why we've organized our women's fashion into easily searchable categories. I hope you will take pleasure in this write-up, and after you have had a look at some of the fantastic winter white style, I hope you will adore winter whites as much as I do! Pair up a western jacket with your favorite blue jeans and cowgirl boots to total your appear. It can actually be mush like picking the proper suit or what shoes to put on with that suit. We understand that women's fashion is moving at a really quick pace and trends are altering every day.
Costume and Designs – the Evolution of Style From Early Egypt to the Present by Henny Harold Hansen E P Dutton & Co. Where there are limited variations in plus size clothing for females on-line, you can shop for a wide array of desirable women's apparel from the comfort of your house. For functioning females and girls there are desirable collections of designer sarees , salwar kameez , kurtis and other ethnic dresses for females. Not that I never really like my high heels boots, but as much as pointy, spike stiletto pumps scream style, and will continue to be extremely significantly in style this fall, the forgivingly round-toed boots scream one thing even better – comfort ! Clinch your waist and get in vogue with designer, leather or metal belts for ladies. Bright colors, specifically neon colors, were a favourite of the '80s style trends.
Females and girls who previously worked as domestic servants took jobs in munitions factories, performed administrative work, worked as drivers, nurses, and on farms. Style accessories for females make the distinction between a regular attire and a effectively-dressed ensemble. Regardless of the recognition of delicate kid slippers for dress, the strength and durability of boots created them a mainstay for almost a century. We function a variety of women's clothes designs to keep you covered by means of lounge days, work days, a night out or your next workout.
A new image of freedom and self respect led women away from traditional gender roles. Although tolerated by most, a male donning feminine clothing remains in the realm of perversion. If some thing you like is not in stock, let us know and we will notify you as soon as it is back so that you in no way miss out on the hot happenings in the fashion globe. That Is In Style Anyway In addition to classic subdued colors, cardigans and vests with V-necks, are among a need to have this winter season. Companies clearly strived to introduce a glove-like fit when they created these footwear. Gracefully say great-bye to the micro minis you wore at 16, skimpy half tops and extremely low rise pants that expose your midriff, seductive plunging necklines and sausage tight clothing that desperately cling to the bygone days of your youth.


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Article content
The young man killed in Abbotsford late Friday has been identified as Ryan Saint-Ange, 21.
And Sgt. Jennifer Pound, of the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team, says the case appears to be murder, though autopsy results will have to be considered.
tap here to see other videos from our team.
Abbotsford Murder Victim Identified as Ryan Saint-Ange Back to video
Saint-Ange was found by a friend about just before midnight Friday at a house in the 27700 block of 56 Avenue. The friend called Abbotsford police who called in IHIT.
Pound said Saint-Ange lived in the house where he was found.
Shocked friends remembered him on Facebook as a loyal, fun-loving guy.
Clayton Kientz said: "I never thought I'd see this day. You were a good friend. And I'll never forget our walks home cracking jokes and laughing. Always had a smile on your face, and you were such a tremendous guy. Rest In Peace Ryan."
Danny Illes posted Psalm 23, which Saint-Ange had tattoed on his neck:
"The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want; He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters; He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. RIP bro."


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Fantastic Views from our New Designer Villa
The Mediterranean Sea sparkles on the horizon through the open doors of our most recently completed villa in the hills of Denia, with views overlooking the Costa Blanca or "white coast" in eastern Spain.
Designer Villas are custom-built to order on freehold plots of land in an established urbanisation (or your own plot, if you have one). If you act quickly, you could be spending next winter in a sunnier and warmer climate! Not far from airports and rail stations at Alicante or Valencia, Denia is also accessible by car, driving through France or by taking the overnight ferry-cruise to Santander or Bilbao.
This luxury villa is based on the Sola-Me design with four double/twin bedrooms and private swimming pool (included in the prices shown).
British families have been buying homes in Spain for decades, enjoying the change of pace and weather that is all part of the Mediterranean lifestyle. Eating out is more pleasurable too and there are good quality, inexpensive wines to be sampled. Whether you are looking to buy your principal home or a second home with coastal views, our villas offer more for your money than the UK.
Contact us to ask any questions or to book a visit to a show-home and plot locations in Denia.


text: Home > Transfusion Medicine > Blood Donation Information > Organize a Blood Drive Organize a Blood Drive Page ContentThe first step in organizing any blood drive is to contact the nearest blood bank or blood donation center, which can be accomplished using AABB's blood donation center locator. Once the blood donation center is contacted, a blood drive representative is usually assigned to help the person organizing the blood drive. The representative will ask a number of questions that will enable him or her to help the blood drive organizer plan a successful blood drive. The organizer should be prepared to answer the following questions: What is the goal or mission of the group or organization?How big is the organization and where is it located?Additional questions may be asked to ensure that the organizer's group meets the donor center's requirements.Once the representative has determined that an organization meets the requirements, the organizer and the blood drive representative begins to plan the actual blood drive. Mutual goals for the drive will be established, based on the size of the group, and how many people will likely participate. A date and time for the drive will be set, and an appropriate site will be selected. Blood donor recruiters from the local blood bank will likely provide materials and instructions on making the blood drive successful. The following outline provides general tips for conducting a blood drive and ensuring its success: Work with the local blood drive representativeWork with executive staff/HR to provide staff with one hour of time off to donateBuild a committee that includes members from all parts of the organization to help get the word out. Ask people who have donated blood before to help organize the drive - they often make the best recruiters. Advertise two to three weeks in advance using various marketing materials and direct methods that include:Posters - displayed in high traffic areasBrochures - make available during briefings and in high traffic areasFlyers - hand out when meeting with potential donors, seek permission to include in payroll materialsBriefings/presentations/announcements - as appropriate in meetings, in the organization's newsletterTable Tents – if your organization has a cafeteriaEmail - when possible Sign up donors, allowing enough time for all donors to complete the processGet donors to the donation siteKeep in touch with donor center staffEnsure donors have had adequate fluids and have eaten prior to donatingFollow up after the blood drive by making sure the committee is thanked and the blood drive's success is reported in the organization newsletter. Create an honor roll of those who volunteered to donate and post it in a central location before and after the drive. Thank everyone involved using awards, certificates, etc.Book the next drive right away! It is NEVER too early to schedule future drives.


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Creating Themes in FrogOS
So I have finally got round to building my first theme for FrogOS. I used the Frog 2013 Presentation by Rachael Canham and Victoria Baron as a guide:
Then I downloaded the Theme Builder Toolkit – which is essentially a sample theme and a tool for checking it works. I had to place it on a server to make it work (which is a bit awkward) – then I had a play around with the theme.ejs file (as suggested in the video) to come up with this..
The theme is a yellow one, with handwriting style titles and menu headers – and a load of post it notes at the bottom. I made it for a revision site…
If you want to use this theme you can download the whole thing here. At the moment to get it into your FrogPlatform you will need to e-mail it to the service desk – who then upload it for you (this may change in future updates of Frog). The file contains a blank file called "logo.png" this sits to the left of the title – you can replace this file to get your own logo at the top of the page.


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If you've played DayZ, you've probably died. A lot.
And if you've died in DayZ, you've probably died in one of these locations, as highlighted by MyDayZ in this fascinating heat map:
Nifty. Using our image annotation tool, note any place you've found it particularly easy to get shot and/or eaten.
Speaking of DayZ: In case you missed it, do read our lengthy interview with DayZ creator Dean Hall, talking all about the coming standalone version. It won't be long now until we'll have an all-new map covered with all-new red marks.