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This week in Fashion Inspired by Art, we'll be discussing Dale Chihuly's Persian Ceiling. Let's kick off the beginning of summer break in style with outfits inspired by this beautiful and boldly colored installation piece. I hope you all enjoy!
Under the Glass: About Dale Chihuly's "Persian Ceiling"
Dale Chihuly's Persian Ceiling at the VMFA (2012) | Click image to enlarge
Dale Chihuly (born 1941) is an American glass sculptor from Tacoma, Washington. His works are primarily done in the style of animal and botanical sea life forms, such as jellyfish and anemones. Over 200 museums worldwide count at least one Chihuly piece among their collections, and the artist has received numerous awards for his work.
I was fortunate enough to visit the VMFA while their exhibition Chihuly at the Virginia Museum of Fine Artswas up, and the experience was truly amazing. (I took tons of pictures, I just couldn't get enough!) There were many colorful works, but the most fantastic piece was the Persian Ceiling, a glass installation set overhead in a small walkway through the exhibition.
The most striking features of Persian Ceiling are its bright colors, intriguing shape placements, and sense of patterning. Many of the organic hemispheres are reminiscent of jellyfish, while other sea forms, such as mollusks and squid, can be picked out among the myriad of glass pieces.
If you've haven't had the chance to experience a Chihuly exhibition, there are several currently ongoing on the west coast. If you're travelling for the summer, I highly recommend adding one of his shows to your itinerary — it's a sight that you won't want to miss!
Outfits Inspired by "Persian Ceiling"
Patterned Pretty
Top, Belt, Earrings, Clutch, Capris, Ring, Bracelet, Flats | Hair and makeup photo via ELLE
This outfit is all about texture — both physical and visual (actual surface variation and implied surface changes). The large, jellyfish-like forms in "Persian Ceiling" are striped, and the pleats in the yellow top and salmon-colored capris mimic their texture. The pattern on the orange bracelet, yellow shoes, and blue clutch reflect the implied texture of the smooth glass shapes.
Keep the circular geometric theme of the Persian Ceiling going with a geometric belt and matching teal ring and earrings, bringing in the cooler colors of the art. Finish the look off with textured waves and a braided "headband" for a chic, pulled together weekend look.
Undersea Siren
Ring, Bracelet, Dress, Nail Polish, Earrings, Wedges, Belt | Hair photo via ELLE
Channel the sea in this ethereal, mermaid-like look. Start with a pale seafoam-colored dress, which flows lightly over the body like early morning waves. Add some bold color to the look with a pair of comfy multi-colored wedges and a brown embellished belt. For a touch of the ocean, slip on a starfish ring, anemone bracelet, and jellyfish earrings.
Now it's time for some extras. Paint your nails a bright blue for contrast and style your hair with a curling wand intomermaid waves. This look is perfect for a causal date or an outing with your girlfriends!
Unique Cutie
Blazer, Rings, Dress, Umbrella, Nail Polish, Earrings, Flats
Sometimes you find the most interesting things in the most unexpected places. Just as the beautiful glass installation is placed on the ceiling, the most interesting accessories are sometimes the most unexpected. Throw on a simple yellow sundress with a statement-making back. For a rainy day, an adorable set of waterproof flats and an official Chihuly Persian Ceiling umbrella with black exterior add some color.
Throw on a whimsical striped blazer and silver jewelry with a twist to add a feminine sense of fun to the look. Finish the outfit off with some blue-to-white speckled color-changing nail polish and you're sure to stand out against the rainy gray skies of the summer transitional weather.
What do you think?
Have you seen or studied Chihuly or his work before? Do you like Persian Ceiling? What do you think about glass blowing? Do you enjoy the style of glass works? What do you think about the inspired outfits? Which one is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below, I'd love to hear your opinions!


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Beginning your Reiki Journey
The 1st Degree Reiki class is for people interested in learning about the universal life force energy and how it can relate to their own personal health and growth. In this class you will be "opened up" to the energy in a series of attunements that align your energy centers to bring the flow of energy directly into your body whenever it is desired. You will also learn energetic protection and get a better understanding of the human energy field.
Course Outline:
- The history of Reiki and it's founder Dr. Mikao Usui
- Exercises to become aware of your own energy flow and sensitivities
- How to scan yourself and others to sense areas of the body in need of healing
- Meditation practices related to Reiki
- Energetic protection to keep yourself free of other's negative energies
- The traditional Reiki hand positions for healing yourself and others
- The Chakra system, or energy centers of the body that we work with in Reiki
- Other uses for Reiki, ie: healing pets, energizing plants
Teaching Method:
I teach this class very similar to the way Reiki was passed on to me by my Reiki Master Michael Soto in what we call "Reiki and Beyond." All of the traditional Usui method hand positions and theory is taught. Additional information about healing with Reiki that's come forth in recent years, (especially regarding the Chakra system) is also included. We feel that this additional information is invaluable and should be taught along with traditional Reiki. The class also allows time for practice table work and time for sharing your thoughts or questions as we progress.
When are Classes Offered
Classes are taught in two full days, often on weekends, or one evening a week for four weeks. Please click on the calendar to see when the classes are offered. If these do not fit your schedule, feel free to call or email me to discuss setting up a class that accommodates your schedule. Occasionally I teach private class or a class for a couple.
Reiki I costs $300, and includes a manual and a Level I Reiki Certification upon completion. A $50 non-refundable deposit is included and is required to hold your class space. For your convenience, I do take credit cards and you may pay for your class online.

subset: commoncrawl


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Despite hopes to return to their villages later this year, most of the 4 million refugees in Iraq will probably have to remain in the camps for much longer.
In Iraq, we've been asked to help start a third "Shepherd School" in yet another refugee camp. We'll keep you updated as this moves forward!
Our staff will greet over 1000 students when our refugee school resumes classes in a few weeks following summer break. Our team works close with national believers to manage these schools and coordinate activities with tribal leaders.


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Queensland Parliament
Not sure which electorate you live in? Click here to find out.
Have your say in government decision making. Sign an e-petiton or send a submission to a current committee inquiry.
Current e-petitionCommittee Inquiries
First Computer.
The Queensland Parliament acquired its first computer in 1976. The computer, an IBM System 32 with eight megabytes of memory, was hired for nine months for use in the...
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The size of membership of a portfolio committee and the balance of Members between Government and non-Government Members is based on formulae set out in the Parliament of Queensland Act 2001 and depends on the political composition of the Legislative Assembly at the time.
Portfolio committees currently have three Government and three non-Government Members. The Ethics Committee has three Government and three non-Government Members. The Parliamentary Crime and Corruption Committee has four Government and three non-Government Members.
The Leader of the House nominates the Government Members and the Leader of the Opposition nominates the non-Government Members. The Chair of a committee is nominated by the Leader of the House. The Legislative Assembly, by resolution, approves these nominations.
Reports and transcripts are available on the relevant inquiry page for each committee. Committee secretariats will also email these documents upon request.
Each committee's 'Contact' page provides details on how to get in touch with them. Provide your name, address and the name of the document you want.
Tabled committee documents are also available on-line through the Tabled Papers Database.
Each committee's 'Contact' page provides details on how to get in touch with them. Committees endeavour to respond to all letters and emails sent to their secretariats.
Submissions to committee inquiries can be found on the Inquiries page for each committee, under the Submissions tab.


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Super Strong Resin
This above ground swimming pool is a fairly unique pool from Wilbar Corporation, One of the largest above ground pool manufacturers in the nation. Better known as Shrakline Pools they are situated in Long Island NY.
Its construction consists of Resin and Steel. The wall is made of traditional steel which is super corrosion resistant. The remainder of the pool is constructed of super strong and super thick resin. The resin used is put through a special gas (Gaim) injected molding process. This creates its super strength and exquisite surface. It's truly the thickest resin style pool available today. Each injected mold piece fits into the other making a true round shape thus creating a layout scenario that is a breeze.
Easy Installation
Its uprights snap into position without screws and its top rails are designed to swing into place where there're locked into position using super strong resin connector pieces to complete its sleek look. For above ground pool construction companies this resin above ground pool is very installation friendly. Actual pool installations are carried out 1 day.
The Matrix above ground pool is great for cold temperature climates. Matrix is made of mostly resin makes this pool corrosion resistant for the lifetime of the pool. It's not uncommon for companies that sell this pool to provide their longest warrantees. Quite often these warrantees are 60 years with a pro-rated basis.
What style liner fits?
You can put any style liner in this pool. Whether it's an overlap, Beaded, J-hook as well as EZ-Bead liner it will fit seamlessly on the Matrix above ground pool.
The Matrix can be purchased in 54" height oval counterpart is buttresses free giving the oval pool the same unique look. What really sticks out the most for this pool is its sleek looking design. It's an attractive design with the strength to last for many years to come.
Because this pool is made from resin it is not a smart idea to move this pool from one place to another. The various components snap lock and taking apart this design could break snap locking components that give the Matrix its strength.


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Turn Ordinary Outfits to Extraordinary with Silver Flats
Adding a bit of sparkle to your outfit is easy if you have silver flats. When it comes to versatility and style, you can count on these flats. You can go to your office, the grocery, and to a formal dinner without changing clothes. Truly, these shoes can be worn on almost any occasion. It is one of the classic shoes that you should have in your shoe closet. There are women who would agree that silver flats are one of the best flat shoes. This is possibly because silver would go greatly with an outfit of any color. It is a neutral color for outfits, but it is not a boring hue. Here are some silver flats for women in different styles.
This kind of shoes would be perfect if you go out to the mall. A woman always looks better if she is comfortable with what she is wearing. She will move confidently and more at ease.
These flat silver shoes can add glamour to a simple outfit such as the one on the picture.
Some oxford shoes are boring, but this one is not. These sparkly silver flats may look like it belongs to the dance floor, but it can brighten up even the most boring outfit.
As a variation to the closed silver shoes, peep toe flats would be a good change. You can wear it with your day outfits. Accessorize well, and you'll look as if you just stepped off from a fashion magazine.
Here is another pair of oxford shoes for ladies which is far from being plain.
When buying shoes, you should immediately see in your mind how well those shoes will go with your planned outfit. Your safest bet when it comes to shoes is something neutral, such as these grey flats.
The ribbons on these flats make the shoes more feminine. You can wear these shoes with a dress.
Flat shoes come in different sizes and styles, and another thing that's good about it is that it looks good no matter what body type you are.
If you are wearing a colorful outfit, you would have a hard time thinking what color of shoes to wear. But if you have silver shoes or other neutral colored shoes such as brown or white, then you will have no problem.
Even when your outfit includes army print pants, your silver shoes will still be a perfect match.
Shoes are becoming an indulgence more than a need. But sometimes, you need the basics such as these silver glitter flats. Having these would be practical, and it will save you a lot of money because of its versatility. Next time you shop, don't forget to add silver flats to your shopping list.


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By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla
It's a great time to be a music enthusiast. Technology has made it possible to access millions of songs, artists and albums from streaming services for the monthly price of one CD. There are various smart speakers in the market that make it possible to access almost any song with a simple voice command.
Smartphones and even iPods can store thousands of songs which can literally fit in our pockets or purses. The price of storage is cheap while capacities are increasing exponentially. The first iPod could fit 1,000 songs in 2003, we now have microSD cards that can handle 400 GB of space, which is insane for storage that's no bigger than your thumbnail.
CDs still sound better
Despite all this, there are flaws when it comes to digital music. The biggest flaw is audio quality. Because digital audio takes an analog signal and effectively shrinks it to fit a smaller format, it loses a lot of sound quality. This lossy quality may not be noticeable on a pair of cheap headphones connected to a smartphone. Play the file on larger speakers or a home theatre system and the sound will be thin, lack definition and hurt your ears.
CDs still sound better because they are as close as possible to the fidelity of the recording. Music streaming services also seem to fail at offering certain genres like classical, jazz, the blues or even out of print releases.
There's also the question of ownership. Buying digital files or streaming services means these vanish into the ether when you die with no way for your loved ones or family to enjoy the music you bought through iTunes or other services. Backing up your physical CDs enables you to archive your music and it can be considered a part of your estate and they can be inherited by whomever you choose.
I recently found myself transitioning from having a CD collection to wanting to move all my music into digital.
I have over 400 CDs which I want to have easily accessible on a NAS (Network Attached Storage), this can feed into my Sonos speaker system wirelessly or be backed-up into a hard drive.
Backing up CDs
For simplicity's sake, I used Apple's iTunes to rip and categorize my collection. iTunes gives various options for ripping CDs, I chose the highest quality lossless setting (which is Apple Lossless). Ripping CDs this way takes around three minutes a disc and I have a very good sound file for each song.
iTunes also has the option of seeking and adding album art, artist information and other useful information that's shown when you play back the music on other devices. If the album art isn't found, you can always add this yourself manually.
Sticklers for high-fidelity who have a PC can use the Exact Audio Copy utility to get the best possible rip and save their music as FLAC files (Free Lossless Audio Codec).
Securing and streaming your music files by backing up CDs and placing them on devices that allow easier access, makes it possible to enjoy music you already own in a variety of ways.
One challenge with digitizing your CD collection is ensuring that all the metadata, or CD artist and recording information, isn't always easy to get. Depending on how large your collection is and how much information you want to include, it could be a tedious undertaking.
But once you've completed digitizing, adding album artwork and information. You will have the advantage of having a one-of-a-kind music collection that's been curated by someone special. You.
I would quickly make multiple copies of this collection on other hard drives as well as on a cloud service if possible. Then, I would want to have the music handy, so it will go to my Synology NAS (Network Attached Storage) so it can be accessed by my music apps and by my Sonos speakers via an app.
If I want to take some songs or albums with me on my iPhone, I can add this to iTunes (If it isn't already there) and synch it over to my phone.
Advantages of Digitizing your music
At the end of my mission to digitize my CD collection, I expect to get rid of hundreds of physical CDs which I no longer have the apparatus to play back. I can sell my 5 Ikea CD cabinets on Craigslist and I can reclaim some space at home.
Next time I need to move houses I can easily bring all my music with me without worrying about storage. Having various backups ensures that if my Synology NAS goes down, all my hard work and valuable music collection is easily within reach.


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Banning `junk guns.'
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