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Those were the dying words of Sheldon King, 33, who bled out on a kitchen floor in a nondescript brick home in central Colorado Springs.
It was late morning, around 11, on Sunday, September 16, 2018.
Five minutes earlier, King had pulled up to 1611 Howard Ave., where he rented a room for $600 a month from Frank Dillard, who also lived on-site. King was carrying a fast food sack and drink. As he walked in, he might have been thinking about moving. That was on the minds of all five people renting rooms there, who, like King, couldn't afford to get a place of their own. But the renters had nevertheless each felt an increasing urgency to leave soon — Dillard was losing it.
After a business venture failed, the 64-year-old hippie type had stepped up his drug use and, after shoulder surgery in July, he began taking opioids. When friends took a mentally and emotionally unstable Dillard to a doctor for his depression, he came home with more drugs.
Oh, and Dillard had a gun — illegal, as it turned out.
When Dillard later shot King, over a rent dispute, it didn't make banner headlines locally. On closer inspection, however, the crime does seem to lie at the crossroads of many societal challenges that do command broad attention here — the lack of affordable housing, inadequate treatment for mental illness, the opioid crisis, and both racial and class tensions.
Of course, it isn't an easy story to unravel. King's life wasn't entirely stable, most of his friends are shy around both police and media, and the man who shot him isn't around to explain the intricacies of the murder in his own words.
Within minutes of killing King, Dillard shot himself in the head.
By all accounts, King was a good person. His friends and family tell the Indy he had a happy childhood and grew into a man who enjoyed helping others.
Born in Kansas City, King was the eldest boy of six children. After high school, he joined the Army and went to college and later lived in North Carolina, Texas and Kansas before coming to Colorado Springs in 2017. Here, he landed a job with Front Range Technologies installing fiber optic cables.
King ended up living at 1611 Howard after seeing a room for rent on Craigslist around September 2017. There he made friends with Tiffany Blue who roomed there with her husband. They'd landed at Dillard's place after a rent hike — median rent for a 2-bedroom apartment exceeds $1,100 a month here — drove them from their house. They were among plenty of others — a neighbor once observed nine residents coming and going from the 1,100-square-foot, three-bedroom house with a basement.
King, Blue and Dillard lived on the ground floor, and three others shared the basement.
One couple had been living in their car with two dogs when they learned about the rental from Dillard at Palmer Park's dog park. They moved in five days before the shooting.
The arrangement — a lessee subletting rooms to numerous, unrelated others — violates zoning codes, which dictate not more than five unrelated people can share a roof in that single-family neighborhood.
In September 2018, there were six (Blue's husband had since moved out) — too many, but no one complained, so the city was unaware.
Even the property manager, Michael Ringler of Denver, whose mom owns the property, says he had no idea Dillard was subletting.
"The guy didn't give me any reason to be suspicious of him," Ringler says, noting he'd periodically drive by the property, but no red flags jumped out. Dillard paid the first two years' rent in advance, about $30,000, and afterward always paid monthly rent weeks ahead, Ringler says.
In a market with a shortage of 24,000 affordable housing units, Dillard hasn't been the only one flouting the law to sublet rooms.
"I know quite a few people who rent rooms from people," Blue says. "Look on Craigs-list, Facebook Marketplace. They're everywhere. I've rented apartments and houses by myself, and in the last few years it's getting harder and harder to come up with the money. If you make minimum wage and make tip wage, over half your check is rent every time."
Like the couple living in the basement, some room renters are undoubtedly one step from being homeless.
"Renting a room is a symptom of the high cost of housing," Nan Roman, president and CEO of the National Alliance to End Homelessness, tells the Indy, "and people who are poor are living on the edge and some become homeless."
Dillard, too, faced financial challenges. He went from being "a relaxed older hippie-type guy who smoked a joint and played with his dog," as Blue describes him, to an embittered and depressed drug addict.
After investing more than $20,000 in a marijuana business, he was shut out by other partners, prompting him to sue. Days after the lawsuit was filed in September 2016, one of the defendants, Stephanie Durr, sought a protective order. A judge denied it, but Durr accused Dillard of stalking the business, making "offensive gestures," and scattering "hundreds of thousands" of flyers "slandering" the business.
"He has went as far as to have a local tattoo artist permanently tattoo a picture of my nude body on himself," her petition said. The business moved to Denver in September 2017, according to its Facebook page, and the lawsuit was settled in January 2018 on undisclosed terms.
But before Dillard had parted ways with his partners, one of them gave him a .38 caliber handgun, according to statements later made to the Colorado Springs Police Department by Stephanie Balfrey, who met Dillard at a pot club several years ago and served as his caregiver and held power of attorney.
It's unclear whether the source of the gun, which had the serial number scratched off, was ever verified. Police didn't answer most questions regarding the murder/suicide incident, including those relating to the gun.
- Courtesy King Family
- Sheldon King liked to help others.
Balfrey says Dillard was bitter and slid into depression. Then came the pain pills for his shoulder surgery and the Wellbutrin that a friend says Dillard was given to treat his depression. Side effects for Wellbutrin include chest pain and memory loss.
Blue blames the drugs for Dillard's foggy memory, which led him to accuse King of not paying his rent. Despite others vouching for King, Dillard didn't believe them. King's friends say he'd been feeling money pressure after buying a Dodge Avenger, so he'd started to pay rent to Dillard in advance, so he could manage his car payments.
Balfrey said she told Dillard, "I was standing right there when Sheldon gave you this cash money. Here are his receipts from the bank when he took the money out to give you. This man [Sheldon] does not owe you anything."
The rent dispute led to two police responses to the house. Details are sketchy, because police didn't write reports about either incident. But police call sheets show that on Sept. 2, Dillard called 911 at 9:53 a.m. alleging his "roommate" (King) was "refusing to leave." Police labeled the incident a "verbal disturbance" and noted "caller in danger," assigning the call Priority 2 status, a step below an "imminent life-threatening situation." Dispatchers sent two officers, an American Medical Response ambulance and the Fire Department.
A call sheet also notes the rent money dispute and says Dillard was "on meds and not acting right," and that King "was threatened by RP [reporting party]."
Police "advised both parties of eviction process — civil matter," a call sheet says; Dillard was treated at the scene "for unrelated med issue."
Blue, who was there at the time, says medics tended to Dillard for "an anxiety attack" and his complaint that "his heart hurt."
"Sheldon was a very calm person," Blue tells the Indy. "There was no physical altercation. The cops just talked to both of them. The cops didn't feel anyone was being threatening. Sheldon said all he wanted was to have his 30 days before getting out of there."
Before leaving, officers told Dillard if he wanted to oust King, he'd need to file an eviction notice, which he did on Sept. 5, claiming, "He has me in fear for my life. I must stay locked in my bedroom in my own house."
Blue denies that was true, but Dillard pasted copies of the eviction notice throughout the house, naming King.
On Sept. 14, it was King who called police at 6:39 p.m., saying his landlord had locked him out. Again, the call was labeled Priority 2 — "Safety issues [reported]: Weaps [weapons] in house — Mace or bearspray and guns." Three officers were dispatched.
A call sheet labels Dillard the suspect and King the victim. After cops failed to arrive in an hour, King called again at 7:45 p.m. (His mother, Garnetta King of Olathe, Kansas, tells the Indy his phone shows he called 911 seven times before officers arrived.)
After an officer arrived at 8:22 p.m., with others rolling up a short time later, King told them Dillard had locked him out, which Dillard denied.
"Ultimately a civil matter," the police call sheet says.
Blue was leaving for work at a Westside pizza place when King had gotten home from work to find the door locked. She didn't witness what happened but adds, "I did hear him [King] say, 'Frank is crazy.'"
Although Blue tells the Indy she didn't know Dillard had a gun, others say it was well known he did.
Tenant Jason Hill, who'd lived there nine months, later told police he was with King on Sept. 14 and that King conveyed to officers he "was in fear for his life" and that "Frank was unstable and unpredictable" due to drug use.
Hill also told police later he heard from other tenants Dillard had a gun and had planned to kill himself two weeks before. After that, he said, he and the others started looking for another place to live. (Hill initially fled the house after the shots, and told police he wasn't there when the shooting happened.)
The police report of the Sept. 16 shooting also says a friend of Hill's claimed Hill had told her that "Sheldon expressed he was concerned for his safety that day [Sept. 14] and they did tell the cops Frank had a gun."
Another tenant, Daniel Beavor, who had moved in five days before the shooting, told King's sister and mother in a phone call they recorded with his permission and shared with the Indy that King made it clear to police he feared Frank, who had a gun and was using drugs.
"The police knew about this and didn't do shit," Beavor told King's family.
In addition, King's co-worker Tony McLaughlin would later tell police that King planned to move out soon, because, "Frank had threatened him with a gun."
Many people in Frank Dillard's orbit saw him as unstable.
Some time prior to the shooting, Dillard was "weirding everybody out" in the neighborhood by "driving around in his blue pickup truck with mannequins," neighbor Kara Kelsch would later tell police. He then scattered "a large number" of mannequins in his front yard "that made everyone uncomfortable." He finally agreed to display only one after complaints from a nearby school, she said.
At an unknown point in time, Dillard installed exterior cameras linked to a series of monitors in his bedroom that allowed him to watch people coming and going.
"Frank decided that everybody in the world was against him and we were all lying to him, and he had it out for Sheldon," Balfrey told police after the shooting. "He has continued to say, 'I will shoot the motherfucker if he doesn't pay me my money.'"
"Frank talked about shooting people all the time," she added, noting he owned a .38 revolver and hollow-point bullets. Because Dillard had a medical marijuana red card, he couldn't legally own a firearm, according to federal law. But the gun was given to him, so there likely was no background check when Dillard acquired it.
- Pam Zubeck
- The house on Howard Avenue where King was murdered remains vacant.
In the final months of Dillard's life, Balfrey says she watched him devolve into "a severe drug addict," with behaviors she described as manic, bipolar and depressed.
"He had been doing street drugs for a year — anything he could get his hands on," she says, including fentanyl and cocaine.
Though people often don't recognize suicidal signs (see "What can you do," p. 19), Balfrey believed Dillard's threats that he wanted to harm himself or King. Although she failed to take steps to have Dillard placed in custody, she urged Blue and King to seek refuge at her house, if need be.
"I had been telling them for weeks to come stay at my house," Balfrey says. "They kept telling me, 'no, no, no.' They promised me they would get out of there before anything stupid happened."
Before Balfrey left for Florida on Sept. 6 to spend 10 days with a dying friend, she says, "We had a house meeting at my house. I begged them in tears ... 'Please come stay at my house.' Sheldon kept saying to me, 'I'm not going to be run out of my house by this old man.'"
Balfrey would later tell police she believed Dillard planned his suicide to coincide with her return from Florida. Dillard had asked Blue the night of Sept. 15 when Balfrey's plane would land, and Blue told him 5 a.m. on Sept. 16.
On Sept. 16, King drove up to the house at about 10:55 a.m., a neighbor noticed, and went inside.
Five minutes later, as Blue was putting on her makeup, she heard three or four loud and fast gunshots.
"Bam, bam, bam."
Then she heard King say, "You fucking shot me." She closed her bedroom door and frantically dialed 911 just as two more shots rang out.
Beavor dashed up the stairs from the basement when he heard gunshots, the police report said. Seeing Dillard first, bleeding into a trash can in the living room, Beavor asked him what happened. Dillard replied, "I'm sick."
Beavor then saw King lying face down in the kitchen. Blood was everywhere and King was making gurgling sounds, so Beavor told him to hold on and he ran downstairs to get a towel. When he returned moments later, King was dead.
When he asked Frank why he shot King, Dillard said, "What are you talking about?"
The first officer to arrive found several mostly empty small baggies with a skull design that appeared to contain remnants of black tar heroin, in the living room where Dillard sat, the police report said. Police also found a glass narcotic smoking pipe with white residue, along with several other pipes and bongs.
After Dillard was rushed to the hospital, police found the surveillance system in his bedroom and 44 bullets in a nightstand.
As officers milled about the property investigating the murder, Kelsch, the neighbor, approached, asking, "Did he [Dillard] finally kill someone or did someone kill him?"
Two days later, Dillard died and his body joined King's at the coroner's office.
Both of King's gunshot wounds were fatal, El Paso County Coroner Leon Kelly says. The first entered his right chest, tore through ribs and his aorta. He would have lived 6 to 10 seconds, Kelly says, which is when he uttered his dying words. The gurgling sound Beavor noted is called "agonal breathing" by medical examiners. It's part of the dying process.
The second shot struck King in the head, killing him instantly.
An autopsy concluded Dillard shot himself in the nose.
Toxicology tests indicate both men had consumed pot in the recent past. The level found in King's blood suggests he probably wasn't high when he was killed, Kelly says. But Dillard's level was elevated, Kelly says, suggesting, "You could make the argument that he was high at the time."
Dillard also had an antidepressant drug on board, as well as Oxycodone, a powerful opioid painkiller. (Kelly says the drug wouldn't have been administered at the hospital to a patient being treated for a severe head injury.) No heroin was detected.
Since that day, all the residents have moved out. Blue left that very day. The house remains vacant and ominously boarded up as of this writing.
King was buried by his family in Kansas City.
No one claimed Dillard's remains at the coroner's office, which told the Indy the public administrator stepped in. Privacy laws protect release of further information from that office.
King's family has found it impossible to make sense of his death. They are left to wonder if racism played a role. Would police react differently to a white person's plea for help, they wonder?
"I feel that when someone tells you, 'There's a gun in the house, the guy's unstable, I fear for my life,' you should check it out," says King's sister, Danielle Monett King. Had officers gone inside the home, they'd perhaps have found drugs, and possibly the gun, she believes.
Police say any claim of racial discrimination in the case is without merit and that calls are "prioritized and dispatched based on available resources."
"I cry every day," King's mother Garnetta, says. "You read the police report and you say, 'They let him down.'"
What can you do?
Beyond sounding a warning, as in the case of Frank Dillard's friend Stephanie Balfrey, there are steps friends and family members can take if they recognize a person with mental illness poses a danger.
Kara Rowland, communications director at Mental Health Colorado, says friends and loved ones can intervene if a person appears to present an imminent danger to themselves or others.
A friend or family member can call the Colorado Crisis Services hotline, 844/493-8255, for guidance. Additionally, a 72-hour mental health hold can be initiated by a peace officer, medical professional, family therapist or social worker, or a hold can be instigated by a relative or friend who signs an affidavit, affirmed before a judge, saying the person is mentally ill and a danger to themselves or others. (For a full explanation: tinyurl.com/CO-72hr-hold.)
Of course, that assumes there's a place to house someone. Short-term holds can take place in a regular hospital; thereafter, the state faces a severe shortage of mental health beds. In December, the Colorado Mental Health Institute in Pueblo limited admissions to criminals assigned there by the courts, but recently lifted that restriction, according to Colorado Public Radio.
As for firearm possession, Mental Health Colorado is among those supporting "red flag" legislation (Colorado House Bill 1177, known as the "Extreme Risk Protection Orders" bill) that would sanction a formal process to temporarily remove a firearm from a person who poses a grave threat to themselves or others, Rowland says. "There are built-in protections for due process and return of the weapon, but the bottom line is this is a bill that would save lives. According to the Colorado Health Institute, firearms are involved in half of all suicides in the state."
Red flag bills have failed in the past but might stand a better chance with Democrats in control of both houses of the Legislature and the governor's office.
HB1177, introduced. on Feb. 14, enables family or law enforcement to petition a judge to remove weapons from someone who exhibits violent or dangerous behavior. A temporary order would last 14 days, after which family or law enforcement could petition the judge to extend it for 364 days. During this hearing, respondents would be provided free legal counsel, and the respondent could seek to have the order terminated at any time during the 364 days.


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Breakfast & Dining Table d' Hote
More than just an overnight stay: relax and enjoy local produce
Breakfast - Petit Dejeuner includes:
- Continental Breakfast
- Buffet Style in the Dining Room or Alfresco
- Tea, Coffee, Hot Chocolate, Fruit Juices
- Choice of Cereals and Yoghurt
- Patisseries complimented with butter or selection of homemade Jams
- Toast
- Eggs cooked to preference (boiled, poached or fried)
Dining - Table d' Hote includes:
For additonal supplement guests can enjoy a four course meal including wine with a menu of home cooked food using local produce and regional recipies.
If you require Table d' Hote please inform your hosts by 10.00am
All guests will be asked of any special dietary requirements, food intolerences or allergies. We offer Table d'Hote for all, including Vegetarian, French and English cusines.
Entre Mains
Crudities Beef Bourguignon
Smoked Salmon Cheesecake Chicken in White wine
Mushroom Souffle Salmon with Champagne sauce
Soup Filet Mignon Pork
Pate ( homemade) Navarin of Lamb
Chocolate Tort
Normandie Apple tart
Limoncello plum tart
Cherry glisten tart
Available on request.
SALAD LUNCH ( available only on Sundays )
During the summer months Le Petit Tournesol offfers a light salad lunch available on request.
Do you have any other requests?
We're always happy to help. Simply use our contact form.

subset: commoncrawl


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Just A Very Quick Thought About Wargames
I was watching Wargames tonight, as one does, and a quick thought occurred to me.
You know that moment when Matthew Broderick asks the computer for a list of the "games" it has available, and they appear on screen?
And he's all like,
But then as the rest of this list appears his face suddenly falls into fear?
I'm not sure that scene works so well any more:
…Yup, those are some games.


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This December seems to have been calmer than usual, which is rather nice. We've both had concerts – Tom's choir sang a delightful program of Spanish Christmassy music whilst mine performed Handel's Messiah at Carnegie Hall, and of course there have been some carols too. Other than a single string of lights we haven't bothered decorating this year, but have been making the most of every opportunity for festive food and drink, with one particularly note-worthy weekend including both the first mulled wine of the season and Tom's first attempt at hasselback potatoes (an epic success!).
Monthly Archives: December 2018
Beacon, blazing
The desire to do something different with some recent visitors from England prompted us to take a trip up the Hudson valley. It's a beautiful way to spend a day out of the city, and an easy train ride from Grand Central station. Initially we thought we might go hiking, but when the weather forecast started predicting frigid temperatures we decided that an indoor activity would probably be more comfortable, so a museum visit was planned instead.
Thanksgiving 2018
This Thanksgiving was our biggest yet, I think, with 8 of us for lunch. We hosted and cooked for four NY friends and a couple of visitors from England, and it was a lovely day. I was very happy with the way the table looked before everyone arrived
… and even more so when it was laden with food!
This doesn't look like all that much, but we were very full once we'd finished, and sadly I seem to have forgotten to photograph the pumpkin and pecan pies which followed the main course. Lots to be thankful for.


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The Art o Ninzuwu and a production of Nature; with all its elements found within Nature. This is a production and all forms of production is magical ask, "Disney ".
It is a Vast Ocean of Knowledge cumulated of over the past few years translated by Warlock Asylum and the Original members of the art. Ranging in multiple oriental healing and meditational techniques all focusing on health, self awareness and spiritual cleansing.
Like all martial arts it is necessary to understand the philosophy to advance in understanding of the art. If you want to advance you have to understand the philosophy, you do not need to advance; you can stay where you are satisfied at. It is not an requirement.
The advance stages of this art are focus on the premise of a deeper understanding of a production of self awareness and universal cooperation.
For Advance classes you must have an understanding of the Ninzuwu chakra structure also known as the Vasuh Letters or nine books of dreams. As well as the ninzuwu philosophy both found in the Ivory tablet of the crow. "A self initiating/understanding of the art of Ninzuwu"
Also necessary form of literature is the Ame-no-Ukihashi: The Ancient Martial Art of the Ninzuwu entailing all the basis and philosophy of Ame-no-Ukihashi.
The completion of every stage consists of a performance in front of your fellow piers either group or individual; with self approval being the most important judgment.
Most important thing to understand is this is an Art not a destructive tool to harm individuals. It consist of self awareness and universal cooperation; the compounds of a great production also known as art or nature.


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May 8-10, 2017
Cape Town, South Africa
3 days, 14 talks and 3 workshops with authors, speakers, and design leaders who've worked at Google, Apple, Airbnb, IDEO and more.
A conference unlike any other in Africa. Get practical insights you can apply at your desk immediately.
Who should attend?
UX and UI designers, front end developers, product managers and product owners.
Pixel Up! is more than just a UX conference, it's about helping you use design to create better products and businesses.
UX, UI, LEAN, content, research, art direction.
In Cape Town, one of the Africa's most beautiful cities.
"It is not often that I come back from a conference with a toolkit on how to make a difference at work."
— Jani RostollAttendee #pixelup2016
"Design is subjective, only if you're too lazy to make it objective."
— Dan MallSpeaker #pixelup2016
We couldn't do this without our partners.


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By Marcy Stellfox
El Niño or no, you know it's going to happen. Whether it's a week or just a few days, some winter weather will hit the Hill Country. The thing that can make it so tough is the unpredictability of it all. And because these crazy winter weather things are so few and far between, we've not got much experience in navigating the stuff. Thanks to the Texas Department of Public Safety (TxDPS), there are a few preparations you can take that will make those inevitable winter weather days more bearable.


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'Wait, he wants us to drink more?' the harshly beautiful American girl standing next to me gives me a look of horror that utilises all her facial muscles. I look at the ancient Peruvian brewer who is, sure enough, re-dipping his magical pisco stick into the ceramic container.
'I think so,' I say, trying to swallow the sickly burn that's still merrily dissolving my oesophagus from the last shot.
A shaft of light cuts through the dimness of the large shed. I suppose it's technically a warehouse, but really it's a rickety wooden outbuilding filled with not only thousands of litres of pisco, but badly taxidermied animals, inexplicable suits of armour and a frankly weird amount of skulls.
There's also at least a hundred years' worth of dust in here. The roof is a half-hearted thing, hence the shafts of sunlight elbowing their way through the dense air. All this would be destroyed in one rainfall but luckily (depending on how you look at it) it never rains here. Ever.
Pisco wine
Peru's pisco is something of a national obsession and Ica, on the Atacama Desert's northern extreme, is the place to get to grips with it. Considering I went on a dune buggy death ride the day before and thought wine tasting looked like a reasonable option to recover, today has so far been even more of an assault on the senses.
'This one is pure pisco,' translates a Peruvian girl for my American neighbour and me. The brewer is speaking seriously in Spanish and the group are listening intently.
'You mean the last one wasn't pure?' asks the American girl, 'why did it burn so much?' Our impromptu translator is nodding gently at whatever the man is saying before turning to us again.
'He says you must hold your breath while you drink it,' she pauses to listen. 'He says you must take the smallest taste first and then when you drink the rest, it will not be so shocking.' She smiles as though what she's saying is completely normal.
The American girl looks at me and opens her mouth to say something that she can't quite articulate. Her eyes say run.
The miniature plastic shot glasses of pisco get passed around and work their way back to us. I hold in my hand hundreds of years of distilled tradition – or, more to the point, a spirit that contains around 45% alcohol. And it's only just gone midday.
An acquired taste
The first tiny sip, just a drop, immediately fills my mouth with a treacherous and pervasive taste that is so strong it's all I can do not to spit it out. Fumes travel up my nose and claw their way through my sinuses until they may as well be tapping on my frontal lobe. The American girl watches me.
I hold my breath, open my mouth and tip the rest of the shot into it. I hold it there, the lack of air seeming to genuinely numb my taste buds, before swallowing the whole mouthful and scrunching my eyes shut.
It's not burning so much as shocking, sort of like being slapped in the throat. My eyes water ever so slightly and I consciously straighten out my face from the grimace that has inadvertently occurred.
'How was it?' asks the girl. I run my tongue around inside my mouth to try and get the saliva to shift the taste now embedded in my soft tissue.
'It was a cultural experience,' I tell her.


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Projects & Chapters
Denver Metro Catalyst for Kids
The Denver Metro Catalyst for Kids project is working to ensure that all children living in the Denver Metro Area, regardless of their background, where they live or how they learn, have the opportunity to attend excellent schools and colleges with strong leadership and highly trained, innovative teachers, who prepare students to be engaged, successful adults.
Great Education Colorado works with community members in several chapters in communities across Colorado. Great Ed Chapters are locally directed by teams of parents and education supporters. The character and organization of each chapter varies by community, but each chapter has the common goal of raising awareness about Colorado's education investment and offering local ways to take action to improve education investment at the state level. Chapters organize events, networking opportunities, and presentations to expand the network of people who are actively engaged in improving education investment, so all Colorado kids can have a great education.
Great Ed now has chapters in:
- Adams County
- Arapahoe County
- Denver
- Douglas County
- Jefferson County
- St. Vrain (partnership with Grassroots St. Vrain)
To join your local chapter or to learn more about starting a chapter in your area, call: (303)-722-5901 or e-mail Sue Catterall at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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If you follow our blog or have participated in a program, you know that creative and interdisciplinary entrepreneurship is important to us. More than having students make cool apps or software companies, 3 Day Startup values innovation in diverse and unexpected places.
Part of the reason we are so passionate about this, is that we see entrepreneurship as a literacy. All students (and all people) can benefit from learning how to think and operate entrepreneurially. Beyond that, we believe in a future with a richer understanding and scope for what an entrepreneur is and looks like.
But in practice many students who want to learn more about entrepreneurship have difficulty breaking into the space. Instead, university programming is full of business, economics, computer science, and engineering majors.
This over-saturation, of course, is not to say that there isn't a need for those entrepreneurs as well.
But non-tech entrepreneurs have the ability to make outsized innovation in their fields. We just need to give them the resources.
So, why does the exclusion of these non-tech, aspiring entrepreneurs hurt entrepreneurship?
There are disciplines, sectors, and customer bases that crave innovation and need their problems to be solved. And there are entrepreneurs with tech or development backgrounds that won't be fully equipped to solve them. Because they don't fully understand them.
Business and CS majors will never make the big pushes in education or medicine or art. Their skillsets and interests don't prepare them for those fields. And that isn't always where their passions lie.
But there is ample room in those fields for innovation and improvement.
Including those students in the conversation and in the programming is the first step to bridging that gap.
Learning entrepreneurial skills is becoming more and more relevant to young people today. And schools are making strides to provide that education. But if measures aren't taken to ensure that it is accessible to everyone, then these goals cannot be achieved.
Schools need to be careful about how they frame entrepreneurship for their students. And students need to be careful of how they frame it for themselves
Focusing solely on tech ventures and their successes implies that entrepreneurship is only successful when it is a tech venture.
So how do schools go about incorporating this change?
Many schools keep their entrepreneurship programming within the business or engineering schools. Often, this happens because the entrepreneurship center is an offshoot of those departments.
In these cases, the programming isn't necessarily exclusionary by choice, but by coincidence. And the lack of participation by students in other disciplines isn't disinterest as much as it is ignorance.
To create the kind of collaborative, interdisciplinary environment that can benefit both students and entrepreneurship programs, departments will have to come together, acknowledge the benefits of entrepreneurial education, and promote those opportunities to their students.
But the burden doesn't fall on schools only at the department level. Students will have to be open to breaking the mold and entering unfamiliar territory.
What can students do to get more involved and open themselves up to opportunities?
The first thing is to acknowledge that, if you are interested at all in entrepreneurship or innovating in a space you are passionate about, then you have just as much a right to receiving that education as other majors. Don't trick yourself into thinking that, because you don't know how to make a business plan or code an app, you aren't qualified to turn your idea into a viable venture.
It's a myth that all entrepreneurs have these backgrounds or know these skills. Half the time, when I speak with entrepreneurs who have started a company they tell me they studied political science, or philosophy, or English.
For non-tech majors, or majors not typically associated for entrepreneurship, there is no better time to learn and experiment than during college.
Particularly if your school provides a program like 3 Day Startup that serves as a learning opportunity for students of all levels. In taking chances like these, there is really nothing to lose and everything to gain.
And if your school doesn't provide early stage programming like that, don't be afraid to talk to the head of your entrepreneurship center about opportunities that could be a good fit for you.
Change is on the horizon.
With entrepreneurship programs popping up around the country, the discipline will start to experience a shift. It will have to. The nature of work is changing. And the upcoming generation wants opportunities to apply entrepreneurial learning to what they are passionate about and earn money more on their own terms.
Whether they are have aspirations in art, music, education, or medicine, they need a platform where they can apply their specific skills and make outsized change. College and university entrepreneurship programs have the opportunity to be that platform.
All they have to do is take it.
Contact us today and bring a 3 Day Startup program to your university or community. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook to learn more about upcoming events and receive notifications for more blogs like this to help you on your entrepreneurial journey.
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Then the LORD said to Moses, "Go in to Pharaoh and tell him, 'Thus says the LORD God of the Hebrews: "Let My people go, that they may serve Me. For if you refuse to let them go, and still hold them, behold, the hand of the LORD will be on your cattle in the field, on the horses, on the donkeys, on the camels, on the oxen, and on the sheep—a very severe pestilence. And the LORD will make a difference between the livestock of Israel and the livestock of Egypt. So nothing shall die of all that belongs to the children of Israel." ' " Then the LORD appointed a set time, saying, "Tomorrow the LORD will do this thing in the land."
So the LORD did this thing on the next day, and all the livestock of Egypt died; but of the livestock of the children of Israel, not one died. Then Pharaoh sent, and indeed, not even one of the livestock of the Israelites was dead. But the heart of Pharaoh became hard, and he did not let the people go. (Exodus 9:1-7, NKJV)
Many of us know the Exodus narrative. How God called Moses from birth to deliver the Hebrew people from their slavery in Egypt. How Pharaoh ordered all the male Hebrew babies killed, but Moses' mother hid Moses in a basket in the river. How Pharaoh's daughter found Moses and rescued him. So, Moses grew up in the Pharaoh's palace, saw the bondage of his people, killed an Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew, fled to the wilderness of Midian, and lived as a shepherd. Then, at Moses' lowest, God spoke to him through the burning bush, and despite all Moses' protests, God was adamant that He would deliver the Hebrew people through the leadership of Moses. And here, in this passage, we read how Moses, with Aaron's help, is waging God's war against Egypt through the plagues until Pharaoh finally lets the Hebrew people leave.
Tomorrow begins a new year. Many of us are thinking about resolutions. Maybe you want to lose weight, manage your money better, be a better mother, father, sister, brother, friend. Find a job. Get a promotion. Whatever it is, there's probably something on your heart you'd like to see happen in the New Year. I'd like to suggest one additional resolution for each of us to make.
When God started the plagues in Egypt, they were a sign to Pharaoh about God's power, an attack against Egypt's God's that would ultimately provoke Pharaoh to let the Hebrew people leave Egypt. But with some of the plagues, like the flies and the livestock, God adds another element: a difference between His people and Egypt.
Spiritually, we can look at Egypt as a picture of the world and the Hebrew people as a picture of the church. As believers, we live in this world, working alongside believers and unbelievers, providing for our households and improving our communities. But even though we live in and work among the world, God has called us to come out from the world, to be different—to come and worship Him.
Our worship offends the world because our world doesn't understand God. But God doesn't call us to change this world by Christianizing governments, arguing with skeptics, or slaughtering unbelievers. God instructs us to go and make disciples. He commands us to love Him and others with our whole being and to show that love by our actions toward others. And He describes those acts of love as being light in a dark place, salt to preserve the world (Matt 5:13-16).
As we begin this new year, I want to encourage you to let God's invitation to His people—to come and worship—be your invitation as well. God wants to make a difference between you and the world, bringing His light into this dark world through you. But He makes that difference by changing your heart and renewing your mind (Rom 12:2). How does He do that? By His Spirit, through prayer, through the Word, through fellowship with believers, and through circumstances, day-by-day, moment-by-moment, as you yield your heart to His presence in your life.
Let God change your life. Let Him make a difference between you and the world. Let God bring His light into this world through you. Let God be your resolution this new year.


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Iron Man Decal Powered by Apple Arc Reactor [gizmodo]


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Catholic Creative Arts Contest focuses on God's Mercy
February 09, 2016 | posted by
Topics: Catholic Schools
The Jubilee Year of Mercy is a special time for the Church, a time when the witness of believers might grow stronger and more effective. It will be celebrated so that the whole of the People of God can be involved with living out this Holy Year as an extraordinary moment of grace and spiritual renewal. Catholic Schools across the Archdiocese of San Antonio shared their talents in art, writing, poetry, music, and photography through the Catholic Creative Arts Contest. The contest was sponsored by the Department of Catholic Schools Enrichment Program Office headed by Veronica Montalvo. The goal of the contest was for students to project their understanding and examples of "mercy" in a creative and imaginative way. In accordance with the Jubilee Year of Mercy, students were able to reflect on the themes "God's Mercy in My Life," and "God's Mercy on Others."
Kenzi Van Geffen, 10th grade, St. John Paul II Catholic High School Archdiocesan Winner – Photography
"Thank you so much for conducting this Creative Arts Contest for our schools. We are so proud of our students who placed! Thank you for the opportunity to help our young people develop their gifts!," said Sr. Carmen Botello, FMA, Principal at St. James the Apostle School.
Tristan Ortega, 4th Grader, St. Leo the Great Catholic School Archdiocesan Winner - Art
The contest aimed for each school to integrate the teachings of the corporal and spiritual works of mercy so that students could have a better understanding of what God calls us to do. Top entries will be complied onto a book and awarded to all Archdiocesan and Honorable Mention winners.Thirty-three (33) students will be recognized for their excellent work and twenty-seven (27) students will be recognized for their notable achievement.
Schools that submitted entries to be judged at the Archdiocesan level were: Antonian College Prep High School, Holy Name Catholic School, Holy Spirit Catholic School, Incarnate Word High School, Little Flower Catholic School, Our Lady of Grace Academy (Pleasanton), Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School, Rolling Hills Catholic School, St. Gregory the Great Catholic School, St. James Catholic School (Seguin), St. James the Apostle Catholic School, St. John Paul II Catholic High School, St. Leo the Great Catholic School, St. Luke Catholic School, St. Matthew Catholic School, St. Paul Catholic School, St. Thomas More Catholic School, Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School (New Braunfels), and The Atonement Academy.
The Catholic Arts and Academic Competition will conclude the season with the 1st [email protected] choir contest. School choirs from across the archdiocese will gather at Antonian College Preparatory High School on Saturday, April 30, 2016, and glorify the Lord through music as they compete with liturgical and religious songs.
For more information about upcoming Catholic Arts and Academic Competitions visit: https://www.archsa.org/schools/caac


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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – On a plane singing Whitney Houston? We have a problem.
A bizarre incident took place on board an American Airlines plane headed to John F. Kennedy International Airport from Los Angeles Friday.
A passenger started signing Whitney Houston's version of the Dolly Parton song "I Will Always Love You." The passenger wouldn't stop.
The pilot made an emergency landing in Kansas City, where air marshals met the plane.
"The woman was being disruptive and was removed from the plane for interfering with the flight crew," airport spokesman Joe McBride told CBS affiliate KCTV in Kansas City. "There was a federal air marshal on the aircraft, who subdued the woman and put her in cuffs and removed her from the plane."
The woman claimed to be a diabetic. She was not charged, but the airline refused to allow her back on the flight.
You may also be interested in these stories:
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Tuesday, December 17, 2013
7 Days of Giveaways with Chicken Soup for the Soul: Day 7
Day 7: Chicken Soup for the Soul: Thanks Mom Book and Gift Set
Chicken Soup for the Soul: Thanks Mom will touch the heart of any mother with its stories of gratitude, joy, love, and learning from children of all ages. The paperback book packaged with a photo frame and bookmark is the perfect to give any mother, mother-to-be or even grandmother.
A mother's job is never done, but in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Thanks Mom, she gets the praise she deserves. Children of all ages share their words of thanks in these touching, heartfelt stories. Chicken Soup for the Soul: Thanks Mom will bring any mother joy, inspiration, and humor and show her that the kids were paying attention after all.
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Posted by Lara at 7:39 AM 3 comments Links to this post
Monday, December 16, 2013
7 Days of Giveaways with Chicken Soup for the Soul: Day 6
Day 6: Chicken Soup for the Soul Cookbook eBook from Open Road Media
The kitchen is the heart of the home. So much of life is lived around the family table: We tell stories, review the day, pass on traditions, grieve our losses, resolve differences, introduce new loves, and celebrate holidays. In the preparing and sharing of meals we create deep memories that we carry with us forever.
The flavor of Chicken Soup for the Soul, here is a joyful collection of heartwarming stories accompanied by mouthwatering recipes. Seasoned with heartfelt blessings, this marvelous book will help you revisit time-honored values and foster the sharing of meaningful conversation—and new recipes—at mealtime.
7 Days of Giveaways with Chicken Soup for the Soul: Day 5
Day 5: Chicken Soup for the Soul: It's Christmas!
101 Joyful Stories about the Love, Fun, and Wonder of the Holidays
Christmas is an exciting and joyous time of year, a time of family, friends, and traditions. You will delight in reading these 101 festive stories about the joy, wonder, and blessings of the season. This collection is filled with merry and heartwarming stories about holiday traditions, family, and goodwill. Remember, all of our stories are "Santa safe" so they can be enjoyed by the whole family. A fantastic holiday gift and a great way to start the season!
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Saturday, December 14, 2013
7 Days of Giveaways with Chicken Soup for the Soul: Day 4
Day 4: Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Gift of Christmas
Book and Frame Set
Book and Frame Set
This extra long collection of 121 Christmas stories will warm readers' hearts and spread the wonder of the holiday season with its tales of love, joy, and awe. A great holiday gift packaged with a photo frame and bookmark.
Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Gift of Christmas will delight readers with its stories about the joy, wonder, and blessings of the holiday season. This special collection is filled with joyful, heartwarming and merry stories about holiday traditions, family, and goodwill that the whole family will enjoy.
Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Gift of Christmas will delight readers with its stories about the joy, wonder, and blessings of the holiday season. This special collection is filled with joyful, heartwarming and merry stories about holiday traditions, family, and goodwill that the whole family will enjoy.
Posted by Lara at 8:40 AM 3 comments Links to this post
Friday, December 13, 2013
7 Days of Giveaways with Chicken Soup for the Soul: Day 3
Day 3: Chicken Soup for the Soul Angels Around Us Oceanhouse Media App
Angels are everywhere – we only need to open ourselves to seeing them and receiving their help. Chicken Soup for the Soul: Angels Around Us gives you a portable reminder of the many different forms angels can take with twenty-one inspiring stories about faith and answered prayers. With this app, you can also reflect on your own miracles in your personal journal, engage with our supportive community, and enhance your understanding of yourself with our thought-provoking questions.
Posted by Lara at 8:57 AM 2 comments Links to this post
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Holiday Gift Guide: CleanSmart Alcohol Free Hand Sanitizer
The Holiday Season is upon us! And with it comes spending lots of time out in the malls, shaking hands with old friends and new, visiting with friends and family... and just general exposure to germs! As a mom of 2 little ones I am always looking for ways to protect my family and be sure that we will be able to enjoy a healthy Holiday.
CleanSmart was kind enough to send my family some samples of their alcohol-free moisturizing gel and hydrating spray. Here's the CleanSmart story:
- Kills 99.9% of Germs, keeping you and your family healthy this cold and flu season.
- CleanSmart is naturally moisturizing. Your hands won't dry out from regular use like it does with alcohol-based products.
- No odor! CleanSmart is Hypoallergenic, and virtually fragrance free.
- Contains Hydrochlorous acid, the same chemical your body's immune system produces to fight germs and infection.
- In addition to being alcohol-free, CleanSmart contains no Triclosan or BZK.
- It's gentle on hands, the environment and safe enough to use on kids.
I have been very pleased with CleanSmart over the past couple of weeks. My husband and my daughter both seem to suffer from dry skin all winter long. I am constantly moisturizing their hands. So learning that this product won't dry out skin was a major plus for me. I also have a 1 year old who loves to put his hands in his mouth... so alcohol free and safe for kids was huge!
I have been carrying CleanSmart in my purse and using it when I pick my daughter up from school, when we leave stores, before we eat at restaurants and pretty much whenever I can to help prevent my kids from getting sick. I would definitely recommend you check out CleanSmart!
Posted by Lara at 1:03 PM 0 comments Links to this post
7 Days of Giveaways with Chicken Soup for the Soul: Day 2
The 20th anniversary edition of the original Chicken Soup for the Soul is brimming with even more hope and inspiration - the stories you've always loved, plus bonus stories, plus 20 bonus stories from today's thought leaders.
Twenty years later, Chicken Soup for the Soul continues to open the heart and rekindle the spirit. Celebrate the 20th anniversary with the classic book that inspired millions - reinvigorated with bonus stories of inspiration! You will find hope and inspiration in these 101 heartwarming stories about counting your blessings, thinking positive, and overcoming challenges.
This inspiring edition of Chicken Soup for the Soul is read by Mark Victor Hansen, Amy Newmark, Rev. Michael Beckwith, don Miguel Ruiz, Gabrielle Bernstein, MK Asante, Kris Carr, Heidi Krupp, Tory Johnson, Darren Hardy, Eric Handler, Nic Ortner, Mastin Kip, and Lori Deschene.
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Posted by Lara at 7:55 AM 3 comments Links to this post
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
7 Days of Giveaways with Chicken Soup for the Soul: Day 1
Day 1: Chicken Soup for the Soul: Miraculous Messages from Heaven
101 Stories of Eternal Love, Powerful Connections, and Divine Signs from Beyond
When our loved ones leave this world, our connection with them does not end and we often receive signs from the other side.
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Posted by Lara at 10:52 AM 2 comments Links to this post
Holiday Gift Guide: Angry Birds Go! JENGA PIRATE PIGS ATTACK GAME
(Age: 8+; Players: 1-2; Approximate Retail Price: $29.99, Available: Now)
Set sail as you battle pirate pigs in the new ANGRY BIRDS GO! JENGA PIRATE PIG ATTACK GAME. Race head to head against your rival to destroy the pirate ship! Slingshot your kart down the slope to capture the victory flag and take down the pirate pigs. Players can also unlock ANGRY BIRDS GO! in-app content with a special code in each pack.
My Thoughts:
My husband is an Angry Birds fanatic. He loves to play the game on his iPhone so I knew that this would be the perfect Christmas gift for him! When it arrived I decided to open it up and test it out. Then I would box it back up and wrap it up for Christmas.
I had a little trouble getting the ship together. It would keep falling apart before I could get it entirely in place. I did a little research into other reviews and someone suggested crazy gluing the top pieces of the ship and the bottom pieces. This seems to work great! Now I can get the ship to stay together and set up the inside pieces of the ship for the game.
Once I solved the problem of getting the ship to stay together I really enjoyed the idea, set-up, and execution of the game. I would say it is totally worth it for an Angry Bird fan because it's so unique. Launching the pigs will definitely be a blast for my husband... and I'm sure my daughter will enjoy getting in on the action.
* I received this game from HASBRO in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and have not been influenced in any way.
Posted by Lara at 8:31 AM 0 comments Links to this post
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Holiday Cheer Ideas: How to Get Into the Holiday Spirit
Spreading Cheer This Holiday Season
How to get into the holiday spirit with your neighbors.
All but the most Scrooge-like among us would have to agree that the holidays are about giving our time, attention and gifts to other people. To start out your holiday season in the spirit of generosity and good cheer, here are a few suggestions for families and neighborhoods that are looking for ways to brighten someone else's day. From volunteer work to organizing a neighborhood Christmas caroling event, donating a small amount of your time can have a big impact on the people around you.
Help your neighbor clear their driveway – Have you seen your neighbor after a blizzard, shovel in hand, ready to tackle mounds of heavy, wet snow? If you own a snow blower, why not help out by clearing their driveway after you finish yours? You can also volunteer to clear the sidewalks around the block. A kind neighbor with a snow blower can be especially helpful to an elderly resident who may have difficulty shoveling.
Volunteer your time – A meaningful family bonding holiday idea is to volunteer at a local soup kitchen, homeless shelter or other non-profit organization. Kids love presents, and can tend to equate the holiday season with getting more things – you can teach them how to spread holiday cheer to others by volunteering and making a difference in your community.
Organize a Christmas caroling event – It may seem a bit old-fashioned, but your neighbors may enjoy participating in a caroling event. Ask around to find out who'd like to join in, and consider hosting a social gathering at your house afterward where everyone can warm up and chat over hot chocolate, coffee and cookies.
Plan a neighborhood gift exchange – If you're not musically inclined but still want to plan a neighborhood holiday event, try a gift exchange. These types of holiday get-togethers are more about spending time socializing than exchanging presents, so consider placing a modest $20 limit on gift purchases.
Build a snow-scape with your family – On the morning after a heavy snowfall, transform your front yard into a winter scene, filled with snowmen, igloos, snow castles and whatever else your family dreams up. Snow drifts piled up by your snow thrower create a ready-made mound for tunnels and forts or supply for snowmen. It's a great bonding opportunity, and your neighbors can admire your handiwork as they drive down the street.
These are just a few suggestions for getting into the holiday spirit, but however you choose to spread Christmas cheer this season, make a point to improve the lives of the people around you. Get the family involved, or even the neighborhood, and come up with your own holiday ideas.
*Disclosure - This is a "sponsored post." The company who sponsored it compensated me via a cash payment, gift, or something else of value to write it. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers
Posted by Lara at 6:48 PM 0 comments Links to this post
Holiday Gift Guide - DreamWorks Holiday Collection DVD
Available for the FIRST-TIME this limited edition collection features four holiday favorites in one DVD box set for just $19.98. The glittering box set includes Shrek The Halls, Merry Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda Holiday and Dragons Holiday: Gift of the Night Fury as well as bonus features including games, music videos and more!
Start a new holiday tradition! Bring the family together in front of the fire and get cozy —The DreamWorks Holiday Collection provides hours of entertainment for all ages.
My Thoughts:
I get so excited when the holiday specials start on TV. I try so hard to figure out when everything is on and not miss any of my favorites. But all too often I miss them. Now I have 4 fabulous holiday specials on DVD and they will be watched every holiday season by my family!
We settled in on one snowy day to check out the festive cartoons. My husband loves the hilarious crew from Madagascar - so this funny film about the 4-some trying to save Christmas by delivering all the gifts on Santa's sleigh was his favorite. My daughter is a Shrek fan so she was laughing out loud at Donkey's silly antics as Shrek tries to make Fiona's Christmas extra special. It's their first Christmas as a family with those little babies running around. Very sweet! I was excited for Dragons Holiday because it was one we had never seen and it didn't disappoint! And of course, our adorable pal Po was a hilarious hit in Kung Fu Panda Holiday.
The reason this DVD is such a hit in our house is because it's fun for kids and adults! It will be a family tradition for years to come! Grab it now from Amazon or Walmart or another major retailer. It will get you and your family in the holiday spirit!
Posted by Lara at 9:24 AM 0 comments Links to this post
Friday, December 6, 2013
Holiday Gift Guide: Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: Super Adventure
Available NOW on DVD!
Zoom! Wow! It's Super Mickey, Wonder Minnie, Super-Power Pup, Super Goof, Dynamo Duck and Upsy-Daisy to the rescue! In an exciting adventure straight out of a comic book, Power-Pants Pete swoops down and starts shrinking everything insight down to teeny-tiny size! To save the day, Professor Von Drake transforms the Clubhouse Gang into super heroes with incredible powers. But Pete's merely a sidekick; a wily villain named Megamort is the true mastermind behind the shrinky-dinky caper. Can our heroes outsmart the bad guys? Only by working together, with help from YOU… and the right Mouseketools! Packed with action, surprises and nearly two hours of fun – including three additional episodes – this Super Adventure celebrates the unstoppable power of teamwork and friendship.
My Thoughts:
Let me introduce you to the biggest Mickey Mouse Clubhouse fan in this universe....
When the intro music for Mickey Mouse Clubhouse comes on this guy starts bopping to the beat. And the Hot Dog Dance... oh forget it! He's got moves like you've never seen. So I knew that combining Mickey and superheroes was a slam dunk. It even got his 4 year old sister engaged and entertained!
While the Clubhouse gang is full of fun and adventures, my favorite part of it all is the message of friendship and teamwork. And they even need our little superheroes at home to help out. My daughter was jumping up and down and yelling to the gang to help solve problems and find the right Mouseketool!
This DVD is full of laughs and adventure. It is a great addition to the DVD collection of any Mickey Mouse Clubhouse fan.
This DVD is full of laughs and adventure. It is a great addition to the DVD collection of any Mickey Mouse Clubhouse fan.
Posted by Lara at 3:57 PM 0 comments Links to this post
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Disney's "The Pirate Fairy"
Coming to Blu-ray Combo Pack
April 1st!
Trailer - The Pirate Fairy on Disney Video
Posted by Lara at 1:04 PM 0 comments Links to this post
Monday, December 2, 2013
Holiday Gift Guide: The Little Mermaid II and Ariel's Beginning on Blu-ray Combo Pack
Available Now!
All of your favorite characters from The Little Mermaid continue their adventures in this enchanting sequel to one of the most celebrated animated films of all time. Even though her parents tell her merpeople and Atlantica are just "old fish tales," Ariel's daughter, Melody, dreams of being part of that magical world. In an unforgettable story that will take your breath away, all the good creatures on the land and under the sea must join forces to show Melody that both her worlds can live in perfect harmony.
The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning
One of Disney's most beloved characters reveals the extraordinary events that led up to her transformation into a princess! Long before Ariel walked on land and into Prince Eric's heart, she was one of seven beloved daughters of powerful King Triton. But times were troubled in the underwater kingdom – and music was banned! In this magical adventure, Ariel, her fun-loving sisters, and her loyal friends Sebastian and Flounder strive to bring music and friendship back to Atlantica. Featuring breathtaking animation – and some thrilling surprises – The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning is an enchanting tale you'll share with your family again and again!
My Thoughts:
My daughter is following in my foot-steps as a Disney fanatic. I can remember back to the day I saw The Little Mermaid in the movie theater and how in love I fell with the beautiful Ariel, the faithful Flounder and the overwhelmed Sebastian. When the day came to share this movie with my daughter I was excited to find out what she thought. She immediately fell in love.
While her favorite princess changes from month to month.... it is currently Ariel and has been for some time. So when this DVD arrived we were both anxious to pop it in and take a journey back in time to Ariel's Beginning and then discover what Ariel and Eric have been up to since their magical wedding in The Little Mermaid 11.
I must admit that I am not usually a fan of sequals... or prequals.... and the idea of trying to find something that lives up to a classic like The Little Mermaid had me even more skeptical. But I wasn't looking for a replacement for one of my favorites. I was looking for a fun movie with familiar, lovable characters. And that is exaclty what we got!
My daughter LOVED both of these movies. She really enjoyed the fact that Ariel's sisters had a role in Ariel's Beginning because she has the sisters as bath toys. So getting to know them better was really cool. And she instantly loved Melody in The Little Mermaid 11. Melody really has a lot of Ariel's characteristics and her relationship with Sebastian is just hysterical. We both really enjoyed getting back under the sea and visiting with old... and new... friends!
This would make a great holiday gift for any Little Mermaid fan!
Posted by Lara at 9:36 AM 0 comments Links to this post
Holiday Gift Guide - Great Books from Sterling Children's Books
I love reading to my kids every night before bed. During the holiday season I fill a basket with all kinds of great holiday stories and the kids can pick a book on their way up to bed. This year I am excited to add some great ones from Sterling Children's Books!
Christmas Eve with Mrs. Claus
M. P. Hueston, illustrated by Teri Weidner
Christmas Eve is a busy time in Santa's headquarters - for Mrs. Claus, too. She's baking treats for everyone in this merry, lift-the-flap picture book. Kids will have happy holiday fun helping her find her missing items to make yummy biscuits, scrumptious gingerbread, and a tasty snack for Santa's trip around the world. At the end, a sweet surprise awaits Mrs. Claus!
My Thoughts:
My daughter loves books that really get her engaged. She loved helping Mrs. Claus in this story and looked forward to turning the page and finding more flaps to lift and explore. We've already read this book a couple of times! And of course, now my little one wants to get bust baking just like Mrs. Claus. This is a super sweet and fun story that gets you into the holiday spirit.
The Gifts They Gave
Patricia Reeder Eubank
This beautiful holiday book uses a timeless, beloved Christmas song to tell the story of the nativity. In the manger where Jesus was born, all the animals flock around Him and tell of the special gifts they gave to the infant. From the donkey that carried Mary to Bethlehem to the sheep whose wool made the baby's blanket, these fluffy creatures will steal children's hearts.
My Thoughts:
This book is truly beautiful. So often we lose sight of what Christmas is really about. This is the perfect book to remind ourselves and our children that Jesus really is the reason for the season. The pictures are beautiful and my daughter loved seeing all the animals and learning the role they played during this very important occasion... the birth of Jesus!
Brownie Groundhog and the Wintry Surprise
Susan Blackaby, illustrated by Carmen Segovia
Brownie is ready for a long winter's nap. "Just don't wake me up," she warns. But her friends miss her so much that they can't bear to obey her orders - and they turn Brownies "do not disturb" into a comic commotion, complete with a stunningly beautiful nighttime surprise.
My Thoughts:
A true tale of friendship! This fun winter story is not a Christmas story. It is simply a warm tale about friends. The illustrations are just beautiful. And the book is so well written that even in such a short story you feel like you really get to know the characters and each of their unique personalities. It's a lovely book to share with your children during the long, cold winter months.
Posted by Lara at 8:29 AM 0 comments Links to this post
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Holiday Gift Guide - Joovy Groove UltraLight
This year I had something on my list that every mom and dad need. A great, lightweight stroller. Our family is headed off on a great adventure in the New Year... a trip to Disney World! Since we will be traveling with two kids and 5 adults we decided that it would be a better idea to bring two single strollers rather than one double. This way we can split up throughout the day.
Traveling with a baby as young as my son will be a first for me. So I had a checklist of things that I was looking for in a single stroller. It has to be light. On and off buses all day.... the lighter the better! We need to be able to functionally use the basket. Between sweatshirts and souvenirs... the basket can get full fast! It has to recline. I am hoping he will be able to nap on the go and avoid going back to the hotel. There has to be a canopy and it needs to provide enough shade. The Florida sun can be hot!
With lots of research and a bit of experience, my letter to Santa was written. I was wishing for a Joovy Groove UltraLight. And then.... Christmas came early! I was given the opportunity to check one out in person for review. Woohoo!
I have some experience with Joovy and LOVE my double stroller, the ScooterX2. So I felt confident that this stroller would meet my expectations. What I actually found was that it exceeded them... greatly.
Every point on my list was met:
Lightweight: only 12.78 pounds - and it has a carry strap! Toss it over your shoulder and go!
Functional basket: Large and easily accessible!
Recline: Unlimited recline positions to 149 degrees
Canopy: Oversized (perhaps my favorite feature... the canopy is huge!)
The Groove UltraLight was very easy to put together. All we had to do was attach the wheels, put on the canopy and attach the shoulder straps. Within minutes we were ready to go!
We got the Blueberry color.... and I love it!
I have fallen so in love with this stroller and all of the fabulous features that I now want to replace our other single stroller with a Groove UltraLight to better meet the needs of my daughter. The back is nice and high, which would allow for her to nap should the occasion arise (oh please please please!). I also love the idea of providing her with the great shade that Joovy's canopies cover. And the handles are so nice and high that this stroller is just over-all more comfortable for my husband and I to push. Not to mention the cup holder... crucial for my husband who loves to have a beverage on hand.
Our Donald Duck has already checked it out and given it his seal of approval.
Joovy has never let me down with their great way of thinking, functional designs, great color options, and quality of products. But perhaps what really makes this company stand out is it's customer service. I had to call with a quick question and they were so friendly and dedicated to making sure everything was perfect. They had an answer for every question and made me feel comfortable. Two thumbs up!
Make sure you check out their website to learn more about the Joovy Groove UltraLight, as well as the other great products they carry. You just might find the perfect gift for someone on your list... or one for yourself! You can also follow them on Facebook for the latest news and great contests and giveaways!
Posted by Lara at 12:26 PM 2 comments Links to this post
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
iCaughtSanta.com - FREE Photos!
iCaughtSanta.com is a really fun way to bring even more holiday magic into your home. It's as easy as 1-2-3. Simply upload a photo of your tree, stockings, house.... really anything.... and add in a fun image of Santa. Then you can show your kids that you caugh Santa in the act!
We did this a couple of years ago with my daughter and she thought it was the coolest thing ever. This is a fun and affordable way to make the magic come alive. And right now you can do it for FREE!
Simply go through the steps and then at checkout enter the code SantaShare for your free picture. This code expires on December 10th... but you can use it as many times as you want to up until that point. So share the magic with family and friends!
I just did this fun process and made a great photo of Santa getting caught in front of our stockings! It was quick and easy and look how great it came out!
I am really impressed with how easily you can move Santa around and size him to fit your photo. And he comes out looking crisp and clear. We don't have our tree up yet, but it's going up this weekend! So I will be sure to share some more fun pics once we deck our halls.
I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
Posted by Lara at 12:43 PM 1 comments Links to this post
Holiday Gift Guide - Chicken Soup for the Soul: It's Christmas!
Chicken Soup for the Soul: It's Christmas!
101 Joyful Stories about the Love, Fun, and Wonder of the Holidays
Christmas is an exciting and joyous time of year, a time of family, friends, and traditions. You will delight in reading these 101 festive stories about the joy, wonder, and blessings of the season. This collection is filled with merry and heartwarming stories about holiday traditions, family, and goodwill. Remember, all of our stories are "Santa safe" so they can be enjoyed by the whole family. A fantastic holiday gift and a great way to start the season!
My Thoughts:
It has pretty much become a tradition for me to get the latest Christmas Chicken Soup for the Soul book each year. And as many as I read I just can't seem to get enough. There is something magical about reading the most personal tales from people's lives that bring them joy. It's like stepping into their home and feeling the warmth and love of the holiday season through their eyes.
I really enjoy reading a couple of short storied each night before bed. Being tucked in under the warm blankets and visiting with people I've never met but can almost feel like I know them. It really gets you in the holiday spirit. This would be a great gift for someone special this holiday season!
Posted by Lara at 11:14 AM 0 comments Links to this post
Monday, November 25, 2013
Holiday Gift Guide - Phineas and Ferb: Quest for Cool Stuff
Join Phineas and Ferb on an out-of-this-world adventure as they dig, drill, and explore for hidden treasure for their Museum of Cool in their newest ride, the A.T.T. (All Terrain Transformatron). Play as Agent P and stop Dr. Doofenshmirtz from releasing his horde of robots on the Tri-State area.
Available On: Nintendo 3DS™, Nintendo DS™, Wii U™, Wii™, Xbox 360®
My Thoughts:
This game is a lot of fun! My daughter loves to watch Phineas and Ferb and I can honestly say it's a show that my husband and I can sit down and enjoy with her. So now that she is starting to play some video games I figured that this one would be a hit.
I think the storyline in this game is key. It really keeps her motivated and interested to see what's going on next. And the game moves at a good pace for kids. It can keep her engaged and interested for quite some time. The music and sounds are great and really add to the experience.
The only trouble we had was with some of the controls. You really have to be pretty spot on with your jumping. But I think with time she will get the hang of it better. It wasn't enough to discourage her from playing!
This would make a great gift this holiday season for any kid who is a fan of the show. It really is true to the characters and general theme of the show. Lots of family fun!
Posted by Lara at 12:09 PM 0 comments Links to this post
Friday, November 22, 2013
JFK A New World Order
Fifty years after his death, President John F. Kennedy's life and legacy continues to capture the hearts and minds of an entire nation. Experience the history all over again as a new generation of Americans is introduced to the compelling story of this unforgettable leader, and the political dynasty that he left behind. Insightful and concise, this eight - part documentary series covers the life of JFK, from his perilous birth to his dramatic assassination in 1963.
My Thoughts:
The assassination of JFK happened before I was even born. My grandparents would talk about the young, handsome president as if they had known him. The emotions in their voices were strange to me as they didn't know him. But the pain of that day had clearly hit them hard and stuck with them.
With the 50th Anniversary upon us there has been a lot of coverage in magazines that I read. So I was slowly starting to get to know the more personal emotions behind the tragic event. And for the first time... I started to understand my grandparents pain.
Whether you agreed with his politics or not, no one can argue that November 22, 1963 wasn't a tragic day for our entire country. But perhaps what has hit me the most was the loss of a father and husband. Stepping inside his life, learning about his relationship with his wife and his children make this even even more tragic.
This documentary series is enthralling. JFK was a truly interesting man from birth to death. This DVD covers a lot of territory in only 6 short hours. It is historically so important and I'm glad that I got to know him... and can now understand better what happened that day to him and to all of those standing by.
Posted by Lara at 11:36 AM 1 comments Links to this post
Holiday Gift Guide - Mr. Tiger Goes Wild - Review and Giveaway
A wild picture book—about being yourself.
Mr. Tiger lived a perfectly proper life in a perfectly proper city and everything was perfectly fine . . . until the day he had a wonderfully wild idea! Why choose to stay in the stuffy city when there is a whole wide world of wilderness and wildness to explore? So Mr. Tiger bounds off on an adventure to discover where he really belongs.
Mr. Tiger Goes Wild shows us that there's a time and place for everything. Even going wild.
Recommended for ages 3-6
My Thoughts:
I really do love books. As a teacher and a parent I have a real appreciation for children's books that portray important messages that boost self esteem and address real childhood issues in fun ways. With that being said, I have read hundreds of children's books and enjoy many of them. But this book.... tops them all.
When this book arrived I was excited because I knew that Peter Brown is a Caldecott honor artist. But when I began turning the pages I was just so impressed in so many ways.
First of all, the message. Be yourself. Don't be who people want you to be or expect you to be. Be you... and do what makes you happy. What a powerful message for kids just trying to fit in. My daughter is only 4 and I am already dealing with her wanting to dress like her friends and have the same toys. Wear what you like and play what you like to play. You are only 4 for a short time... so be true to you! This book helped open a lovely conversation with her about just being her beautiful self and enjoying every minute of it.
Secondly, the illustrations are just fantastic! From the dull, muted colors of the city to the vibrant colors of the wilderness.
Thirdly, the layout and pace of the story was perfect. There are pages with no words at all... but the illustration has so much character that you know exactly what the artist is trying to portray. The story is short, sweet, and perfect for bedtime reading.
This is a book that kids and adults can relate to. We all need to get a little bit wild at times. And it's so important to realize how to take the best of two worlds and make your own world where you are happy and you can be yourself.
I would highly recommend this book! And be sure to check out some really fun activities on Peter Brown's website. With gift tags and ornaments... your kids will have a blast!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Posted by Lara at 9:42 AM 3 comments Links to this post
Thursday, November 21, 2013
LifebankUSA "Peace of Mind" Winter Car Seat Giveaway
As the only company that offers cord blood, placenta blood and tissue banking -- and the first to release placenta-derived stem cells for a successful transplant -- New Jersey-based LifebankUSA is a technological leader that is pioneering key medical innovations in the field. Owned by the Celgene Corporation, a world-class biopharmaceutical company, LifebankUSA also operates a robust donation program and collects cells from anywhere in the US for use primarily in advancing medical research.
There's only one opportunity to save your baby's stem cells for the future...
As an expectant parent, your baby's health means everything. Right now, he or she is protected in the womb and will soon enter the world. There is a lot to think about and prepare for, but an invaluable step you can take when your child is born is to preserve his/her stem-cell rich cord and placenta blood The ability of stem cells to save lives via cord blood banking has proven successful for replacing abnormal or diseased cells, and treating life-threatening blood disorders such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. In fact, since 1988 stem cell transplants have been used to treat some 80 diseases.
LifebankUSA is dedicated to providing peace of mind for you and your family. As a mother of two I strongly urge you to check out LifebankUSA and all that they have to offer as the only company that offers cord blood, placenta blood, and tissue banking.
In the true spirit of "Peace of Mind," LifebankUSA will be giving away three top rated Britax Marathon 70-G3 Convertible Car Seats.
Please Click HERE for your chance to win!
Posted by Lara at 6:44 PM 0 comments Links to this post
Holiday Gift Guide- Pound Puppies: Holiday Hijinks
Available Now on DVD
Winner of the 2012 Humanitas Prize in Children's Animation, the Pound Puppies series is currently airing on The Hub in the U.S. and YTV in Canada and stars the voices of Eric McCormack, Yvette Nicole Brown, Michael Rapaport, John DiMaggio, Alanna Ubach, René Auberjonois, and M. Emmet Walsh.
Episodes Include:
I Heard The Barks On Christmas Eve
I Never Barked For My Father
Good Dog, McLeish
Prince And The Pupper
My Thoughts:
As an animal lover and a holiday enthusiast this DVD is a welcome addition to our family's collection of holiday DVD's. There is something really special about the idea of a new puppy for Christmas. Of course, after watching this my daughter desperately wants a puppy for Christmas. Can we take a rain check, Santa?
My daughter loves watching Pound Puppies and I love having this DVD for this holiday season. Each episode is short and sweet and filled with holiday cheer. The puppies are each unique and have their own personalities. But they are truly the best of friends... all looking out for each other. It's a great DVD to share with your kids this holiday season.
Posted by Lara at 12:15 PM 0 comments Links to this post
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Holiday Gift Guide - Educational Insights
Based in Southern California, Educational Insights, is the manufacturer of playful products with serious educational value, including subject-specific classroom products, teacher resources, educational toys, and games. Our products are designed by seasoned educators and parents who know that, first and foremost, learning must be fun.
I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to check out one of the fabulous products offered by Educational Insights, Shelby's Snack Shack Game.
This preschool counting bone-anza is a summer day trip to a dog beach! Shelby buried bones in the sand and needs your help collecting them. Help her dig up the most bones and you win! Kids take turns using the adorable Shelby Squeezers to fill their dog bowl with bones while they practice early counting and number skills. Sounds simple, but be careful—spin a sneaky seagull, and you'll lose some bones or get sidetracked chewing a flip flop and miss your turn!
2–4 players. Grades Pre-K+ - See more HERE.
My Thoughts:
As the parents of a preschooler I know how important it is to make learning fun. My daughter craves learning because we turn everything into a game. This is a fabulous game to play with your little ones where they will practicing counting skills in a fun way.
For my daughter, anytime mommy and daddy play with her the game becomes oodles more fun. This is the perfect game for parents and children to play together. It doesn't take long to play, so it's great for a quick game after dinner. And I have already noticed that my daughter's counting skills are stronger after playing this a few times. She asks to play... so I know it's a winner!
Posted by Lara at 10:43 AM 0 comments Links to this post
Monday, November 18, 2013
Holiday Gift Guide - My Little Pony: A Very Minty Christmas
Available Now on DVD
The My Little Pony brand has been beloved for three decades, and is now more popular than ever. My Little Pony: A Very Minty Christmas is a gift everypony will love!
Bonus Feature:
My Thoughts:
My entire family loves the holiday season! Once November hits we are in the spirit and enjoying everything about this wonderful time of year. One of our favorite things to do is catch up on all our holiday shows and movies. This year my daughter was thrilled to add this DVD to her collection.
We have already watched this Christmas DVD several times and we are all loving it. My daughter loves her pretty pony friends while my husband and I love the message portrayed about the true spirit of Christmas and the celebration of friendship.
All too often we get caught up in the gift giving craze. And it's very easy for our kids to pick up on that and get lost in the hoop-la too. This fun holiday movie is a great way to remind our kids that there is more to the holiday season than gifts. I would highly recommend checking out this DVD this holiday season!
Posted by Lara at 1:15 PM 0 comments Links to this post
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
My Little Pony - Friendship Is Magic: A Pony For Every Season
Coming to DVD November 19, 2013
There's a Pony for every season and an episode for every Pony in this fantastic collection of My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic. That's right! Each member of the Mane 6 – Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Apple Jack and Pinkie Pie – gets her very own opportunity to shine with six episodes guaranteed to have you laughing and singing as you discover the magic of friendship!
Through Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall, My Little Pony – Friendship Is Magic: A Pony For Every Season is sure to entertain us all!
The My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic series is currently airing on The HUB TV Network.
Bonus Features:
My Thoughts:
My daughter adores these lovable ponies and this is the perfect DVD to have on hand. We watch My Little Pony on the HUB network, but sometimes she will ask to watch it when it's not on and now we have any easy solution. We just pop this DVD in and she can pick which of her favorite ponies she wants to visit with that day.
This is a show I enjoy sharing with my daughter because of the wonderful, positive messages that are portrayed by the ponies. Friendship is an ongoing theme, but it's how the ponies handle differences and issues that kids also face. Every time the ponies come out as friends and work through their problems. They learn that friendship is the most important thing and to always be there for each other.
Each episode on this DVD is different and fun. My daughter loves to sing and dance along with these colorful ponies! I would definitely recommend you check them out. And this is the perfect DVD as you will get to know each of the ponies and their different personalities in these 6 fabulous episodes.
* I received a copy of this DVD for review purposed. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and have not been influenced in any way.
Posted by Lara at 9:09 AM 0 comments Links to this post
Monday, November 11, 2013
Planes - Coming to Blu-ray Combo Pack November 19th!
Coming to Blu-ray Combo Pack
November 19th!
The world of Cars takes flight in Planes, Disney's high-flying animated comedy revved up with action and adventure. Join Dusty, a crop duster with sky-high dreams and a once-in-a-lifetime chance to take on the world's fastest flyers in the greatest air race ever. Dusty has a huge heart but two big problems...he's not exactly built for speed, plus he's afraid of heights. His courage is put to the ultimate test as this unlikely hero aims higher than he ever imagined. With a little help from his friends, Dusty finds the courage to be more than he was built for—and the inspiration to soar.
My Thoughts:
I imagine this movie will be on the wish lists of lots of boys and girls this holiday season. My daughter has been talking about wanting to see if since it was out in theatres. So I was really excited to surprise her with a family movie night featuring this fabulous film!
Trying to compare "Planes" with "Cars" wouldn't be fair, as this movie is chock full of all new characters and a different kind of high flying fun. Dusty is the clear star of the show. He is just lovable with his genuine personality and little quirks (umm... a plane afraid of heights? Kind of adorable). And he manages to surround himself with the most loyal group of friends a plane could ask for.
Ripslinger and his crew are definitely the "villains" in this Disney movie. They are not shy about their feelings about Dusty trying his hand at their game. And they are prepared to take pretty much any measure in order to keep him, in what they think, is his place.
The movie is full of high flying adventure and fun. In true Disney style, the graphics are top notch. At times you can literally feel like you are flying right along with these guys. But perhaps what I love most about this movie is the same thing that Disney has done over and over again.... this is a movie that kids and parents can both enjoy. My husband and I were laughing at the jokes that went over the kids heads, my dad was commenting on all the different kinds of planes, my daughter was excited because there were some girls in it (Dottie was her favorite) and my son was just excited with all the action. It was a hit for family movie night!
*I received a copy of this movie for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and have not been influenced in any way.
Posted by Lara at 8:17 AM 0 comments Links to this post
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Nowadays you can see a lot of cool photos all around the internet. On my last surf trip through the www I found this incredible shot of the Itaipu Dam at the Brazil-Paraguay Border. It is one of 150 unique images inside the book "EARTH FROM SPACE" that are taken by astronauts or spacecrafts from high above. You can find more pictures and a preview at wired.com.
Category Archives: Image of the week
What people did before the internet
Do you also wonder about what people did before the whole technical inventions, for example computers and smartphones? We found some interesting about what our ancestors did to relax when they returned from hunting mammoths (source: www.geekculture.com):
Cycling with X-BIONIC® in the Dolomites
In Spring this year we had a great photo shooting in the Dolomites in Italy. It was a great weekend full of fun and cycling through that nice landscape in the Alps. We will publish a gallery of this event in one of the next posts here at the blog, stay tuned. If you like our bike wear, check out our gear for MEN and WOMEN!
A big thunderstorm
Nature can be great, this pictures is a very impressive example (source: bigpicture.ru). Do you have a similar one? Just send it to us, we will publish your best shot here too. Send us an email with your image to firstname.lastname@example.com!
20 reasons to love cycling
In this category we want to show interesting, funny and extraordinary pictures we found on the internet. If you have a picture for this topic too, just send it @ email@example.com.


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Singers Justin Bieber and Austin Mahone are preparing a real pop treat for their fans after hitting the studio together on Tuesday.
The Baby hitmaker teased his Instagram followers early on Wednesday by posting a photo of himself posing with Mahone and his pal's Cash Money Records boss Bryan 'Birdman' Williams and rapper Mack Maine.
Alongside the snap, he simply wrote, "New music", while Mahone was more forthcoming with his photo upload, captioning the shot, "What an amazing song last night..The world isn't ready! @justinbieber."
A source tells Gossip Cop, "Justin knew Austin has been in the studio working on his album and had a song he thought could be really perfect to do with Austin."
Mahone, who has long drawn comparisons to Bieber, was signed to a joint deal between Universal and Lil Wayne's label Young Money Entertainment and Birdman's Cash Money Records last year.
Bieber, who is also a Universal artist, previously recorded his 2012 hit Beauty and a Beat with another Young Money/Cash Money artist, Nicki Minaj.
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