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October 2007
Elizabeth Bachner
The Door by Margaret Atwood
I've had a Margaret Atwood poem haunting me for years: "You fit into me/like a hook into an eye/a fish hook/ an open eye." It's a perfect poem in two lines, and then in a dazzling display of intentional overkill, in a moment of cruel bravado, she adds another two. A favorite Atwood book of mine is Good Bones and Simple Murders, a slim, spare volume full of menace, and that's what the poem "You Fit Into Me" is -- a simple murder. So much successful contemporary poetry suffers from piles of flotsam and jetsam, rhythmless pages of boring crap about parts of boats, obscure botanical references, ceaseless trips to Montauk or Nantucket, tired moments in the marriages of the rich, or the old parents of the middle-aged middle classes dying movingly of cancer. In Montauk or Nantucket. It takes some searching to find electrifying poetry, cruel poetry, work that skins the body of human life and forces you to look at its bones and guts. Margaret Atwood, at her best, writes evil, indelible poetry like "You Fit Into Me," and at her best she's a stealth bomber, slicing into you quickly but fatally. Like a scorpion, she kills at her own expense. Her strongest work is reminiscent of the scene in Les Liaisons Dangereuses when the Marquise de Merteuil describes learning to smile while sticking a fork into the back of her hand under the table.
I say all of this to explain my faint disappointment at The Door, Margaret Atwood's latest volume of poems. Yes, there's plenty of that classic Atwood turn-of-phrase ("The poet has come back to being a poet/ after decades of being virtuous instead."; "The hurt child will bite you./The hurt child will turn/into a fearsome creature/and bite you where you stand."; "the hordes of the starved dead/come back as our heartbeats.") And yes, there are a good handful of poems that I'll come back to and reread with great interest, like "Bear Lament," about losing that belief that "if you could only crawl inside a bear, it's fat and fur/lick with its stubby tongue… this would save you in a crisis." One or two poems are vintage Atwood, like "Heart," about a heart that gets sold literally, passed around, tasted and dropped, "and you stand listening to all this/ in the corner/ like a newly hired waiter,/ your diffident, skillful hand on the wound hidden/deep in your shirt and chest,/shyly, heartless."
Unfortunately, there are poems in The Door that read like the kind of cluttered, ordinary work a great poet writes to clear out her system, to get to the point where she can cut out the layers of muck and murk that accumulate in everyday life and reach the brilliant clarity of pieces like "You Fit Into Me," or "Heart." Margaret Atwood writes enough great, unforgettable poems -- the kind that send shivers up your legs and visit you at random moments -- that a volume of her work needs no fillers at all. This is surely an editorial issue, not a sign of the poet slipping. In "The Poet Has Come Back…", she concludes that you cannot be both virtuous and a poet -- not now, not in public -- and that it is "time to resume our vigil… the god of poets has two hands:/ the dexterous, the sinister." Any volume of Margaret Atwood's work should be shamelessly free of niceties and deference. It should murder us. I will wait, hooked, for Atwood's next volume of poetry. I have a hunch that it will be free of virtuousness and show off her most sinister, dexterous work yet.
The Door by Margaret Atwood
Houghton Mifflin
128 pages


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Every little girl should have a pretty tutu skirt to twirl and play in. This month's free sewing pattern is the Taylor skirt. It will show you how to make a tutu skirt and comes with a free printable sewing pattern.
Wear it with your little girl's favorite leotard pattern or make a pretty top to match with the Natalie peasant top pattern.
The Taylor tutu skirt sewing pattern is perfect for costumes too. I see a lot of Elsa from Frozen costumes made with this skirt!
Tutu Skirt Sizing
This skirt comes in girls sizes 2 to 14
Download the Pattern
Download your free tutu skirt sewing pattern here. This is a great way to try out my sewing patterns with a simple and fun project.
This pattern includes printable pattern pieces and PDF instructions to help you along the way.
If you are new to printing PDF patterns check out my tutorial. The main thing you need to do is print at 100% scale. There is a test square to measure on the pattern.
Sewing a Tutu Skirt
Full sewing instructions are included in the free download PDF. If you have never sewn or gathered tulle before, then have a read of my article on how to sew tulle and how to gather tulle for some extra tips.
Gathering tulle is really easy using dental floss or crochet string and a simple zig-zag stitch.
More Free Patterns for Girls
Here are some more free patterns to check out. I also have many other sewing patterns in my sewing pattern shop.
- FREE Cape Pattern – Caprice Capelet for Girls
- Tooth Fairy Pillow Pattern | FREE Pattern Project
- Free Shrug Pattern – Girls sizes 2 to 14
- Pillowcase Dress Pattern – Free Dress Pattern for Girls
- Free Kimono Jacket Pattern: Simple Pattern for Girls

subset: commoncrawl


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Marathon Training While Travelling: Not for the Faint of Heart
We're off to San Francisco! It's the first week of my kick ass 24-week Marine Corps Marathon training plan, and I'm sitting on a plane headed to sunny San Francisco. I love that I will start this training season by logging miles in a new city though I am nervous travelling with my husband and three children in tow may derail my plans. (It won't. They recognize how susceptible I am to grouchiness-caused-by-not-running syndrome. "No, mom. Please, please go for a run!") To avoid getting stymied during my first week without disrupting the family fun, I plan to stay on New York time. So I figure I will be up by 4 am- if I force myself to remain in bed. Parents will understand the early hours. Take heed young- twenty-somethings and those without children: once you have children never again will you sleep past 6:30 am. Never. Ever. Not on weekends or holidays or day's off. It just won't happen. It doesn't matter if it is a Saturday or a Sunday or a Wednesday. Really, it is all the same day. You are awake. There is stuff to do. Laundry to be washed. Coffee to be made. Dogs to be walked. Coffee to be made. Did I mention coffee? I need so much coffee.
My children are 9,12, and 13 so in truth, they now sleep later than I do. All those years of having to get up early with them have me on a perpetual early morning program. Again, I speak to the twenty-somethings or those without children who silently read this and ask why I don't just start sleeping in. If I did that — if I even could do that, actually, because I just automatically get up at that time now and I am not sure it is possible and believe me I've tried– but if I did and were able to sleep I would forfeit any and all peace and quiet I enjoy in the early morning hours before my monsters…Errr I mean lovely children… wake up. Plus in today's world of overscheduled children (times three) I would have no time to get anything done. The driving from one sport to another or one therapy to another for some of my children eats up an entire Saturday. Also, I got a puppy (because not busy?) in October, and he loves to get up early and go for a little walk. Honestly, even when I am exhausted, spending time with Charlie is so therapeutic and calming I (hardly) mind the 6:30 wake up call. But again, I'd probably be up regardless.
How Long Is a Plane Aisle Anyway?
Do any other runners have trouble sitting on a plane for five and half hours? I can't help but wonder how many repeats I could run up and down these aisles. Sigh. This is a long flight, and there are three hours left. For some reason, my nine-year-old, who would sooner lose a limb than told she has to shut off the television, does not want to watch TV. The joys of parenting never cease. Musings over.


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President Obama's push for a massive new trade deal with Asia is predicated on the idea it will help everyday Americans: that it will "level the playing field for the middle class," in Obama's words. But as the debate over the Trans-Pacific Partnership enters its endgame, newly released government data about the US trade deficit shows recent trade deals have done the opposite of what was promised—and have inflicted added damage on American jobs.
The Census Bureau's annual trade data for 2014, released Thursday morning, shows the US trade deficit in 2014 jumped 6 percent to $505 billion in 2013. This increase received a late boost from the December 2014 numbers, which showed at 17.1 percent increase in the trade deficit—resulting in the biggest trade imbalance since December 2012.
A country's trade balance is a crucial economic indicator; a nation that is exporting far more goods than it is importing is generally in good economic health. Conversely, a country that is increasingly importing more than it exports—as is the case with the United States—is watching valuable dollars and jobs flow overseas.
The data shows a small, 1 percent growth in US exports for 2014, though the domestic oil and gas boom accounts for much of that. US manufacturing exports fell by more than $5 billion in 2014, and the US goods trade deficit rose to $736.8 billion. (More on that number in a minute; it doesn't tell the full story.)
There's a simple explanation for the widening trade deficit: the US dollar is strong, and there's weak growth overseas, which would naturally depress exports.
But congressional critics of the TPP seized on a broader point on Thursday morning—robust promises about the benefits of past trade deals have turned out to be empty. "We signed those trade deals, and the result has been the opposite," said Representative Rosa DeLauro on a Thursday morning conference call with reporters. "The administration continues to pursue the same failed policies of the past several years."
Of particular note is the increasing trade deficit with Korea, which increased a whopping 20 percent in 2014, to $25.1 billion.
Obama signed a free-trade agreement with Korea during his first term, calling the deal "a major win for American workers and businesses," and it took effect in early 2012. But the US goods trade deficit with Korea was 81 percent higher in 2014 than in 2011. That translates to a loss of 74,000 jobs, by the administration's own metrics for measuring job gains from trade.
"[The new information] basically confirms a lot of our suspicions, and our positions and votes over the years about how these trade agreements have really been a bad deal for the American worker," said Representative Tim Ryan.
DeLauro also offered some broadsides about how the administration was spinning the Census report. If you check the Commerce Department webpage, you'll see a glowing news release Thursday boasting that US exports have grown for the fifth year. "Exports have played a critical role in America's economic comeback, and they continued to do so in 2014," said Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker.
But it's impossible to gauge the macro trade picture if you only know the level of exports and not imports. Literally nowhere in the Commerce press release is the word "import," and including that information would depict a growing trade deficit.
"They deliberately fail to complete the picture by looking at imports," said DeLauro.
Another major complaint leveled by congressional opponents of TPP, as well as outside advocates, is the administration's continued inclusion of "foreign exports" into its data. These are good manufactured wholly overseas, imported to the United States, and then re-exported without alteration. These don't create a single US production job, but are counted in the data as the same as regular exports.
Deep inside the Census report are the export numbers without "foreign exports," but they are not the top-line numbers used by administration officials, and are nearly impossible for the public to discern. To see them "you had to know what you were looking for and then do the math," said Ben Beachy of Public Citizen.
Once you do the math, the US goods trade deficit is $911.9 billion, not the aforementioned $736.8 billion. DeLauro called some of the Census numbers "hopelessly distorted."


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NEW ZEALAND | Sunday, 21 April 2013 | Views [4394] | Comments [1]
The long, summer days have come to an end. The clocks have gone back, the days are shorter and the town quiets down. The bathing suit clad backpackers have retreated from the lake and moved onto the next place. The foot paths through the parks carry more fallen leaves than people now. They roll across the asphalt and keep a steady pace with me as I walk.
Some of the trees have started to change color, but not all. Those that do pop up and splash images of fire and passion into my mind. Fingery leaves of bright yellow dotted with green touch the sky. Red crisp leaves set the branches ablaze. These trees I see everyday have changed now, and my eyes and thoughts linger there as I walk by.
The days have turned cool and gloomy. Clouds hang low all the time, similar to the heavy thoughts in my mind. The lake is a constant ash grey and flat blue. It laps upon the shore in a quiet way. The fat ducks stand on the shore and stare, missing the tourists that kept them plump. As I stand next to them and look out they glance up hopefully, meet my eyes, and then look back out, accepting the time of plentiful bread crumbs is over for a while.
When the sun does come out it does in patches, breaking free from the thick grey soup inthe sky. The sun chooses to shine on the yellow trees on the hillside. It looks like the land is burning from the brightness. My heart reaches out to these spots, still amazed by the pure simple beauty of it. It's been 2 ½ years since I arrived and I am still awestruck that a landscape could hold such a power over me. Sometimes I just become so wrapped up in petty problems that I forget to look.
The mountains are always here but are often sheltered by the clouds. They look like a soft blanket, surrounding and comforting them. Cooling them down from the constant harsh sun of the summer. Sometimes the clouds on the Remarkable Mountains retract slightly and I see snow has now fallen. White lines highlight the mountains' best features that were lost during the summer. I recall the excitement I felt the first time I saw them this way. Now I quietly welcome an old friend back.
So begins my third autumn in Queenstown. Every year I think it will be the last, and yet here I still am. In a month and a half winter will be upon us. The yellow and red leaves will be gone, the air cooler and the mountain snow thicker. Town will pick up again with skiers and snowboarders. Until then I linger in this quiet moment where I get to feel like I am home again. Almost.
Tags: autumn, queenstown
Amazingly written!
livew Apr 30, 2014 5:46 PM
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Photography provided by Giphy
Reese's peanut butter cups have been a favorite candy choice for me since I was a little girl! This is a go-to for me anytime I stop at the store or just want a quick snack. Sometimes I eat too many of them but we won't focus on that today.
Douglas, Keara. Reese's Love. 2019. Acrylic. 18×24 inches.
We are back again with another new acrylic painting from visual artist @K_DougDE titled, Reese's Love. For this painting of course you can clearly see visually that I was inspired by the popular and long standing chocolate candy brand Reese's. I mixed in the concept of chocolate women with the candy itself and came up with this creation in highlight of March being Women's History Month! For this piece I kept the color palette simple with only five colors of Anita's Acrylic Paint from Hobby Lobby; pumpkin orange, chocolate brown, earth brown, white and black on a wrapped canvas board from Michael's Arts and Crafts store. My goal was to created an African American woman as if she is coming out of, or growing from, the Reese's chocolate peanut butter cup itself and I think I pretty much pulled that off pretty good with this one.
Photography provided by @K_DougDE
The original Reese's Love painting is now available for purchase here.
Prints and other printed merchandise are available featuring this custom painting by visual artist @K_DougDE! Click the link below to check out what all we have available for purchase through our affiliate partner Society6!
Disclaimer: Affiliate links have been included in this post in which Delux Designs (DE), LLC receives a commission from any sales made through this post. We assure you, the products featured through DE from product reviews are products that we recommend based off of our own personal experiences from using them.
For continuous updates on all artwork, art events and much more follow our social media page links show below. Thanks for your support everyone!
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Touring In: British Columbia (Vancouver Island)
Craft: author
Genre: Picture Books, Early Chapter Books, Young Adult, Hi-Lo
Ideal Audience Size: up to 100
Maximum Audience Size: up to 600
Grades: Kindergarten- Grade 12
Special Equipment: Projector with sound
Website: www.alicekuipers.com
Shortlisted for the Canadian Library Association 2015 Young Adult Book Award
Winner of the 2011 Arthur Ellis Award, Best Juvenile/YA Crime Book
Presentation Information
As an experienced presenter, Alice is happy and comfortable to tailor presentations to specific school and community groups. She loves to engage young minds with tools so they can tell their own stories. She references her own writing life and her many books to talk about inspiration and where it comes from—and for this she often uses image prompts, like those on her Instagram Feed AliceKuipersWritingPrompts.
She shares insights from my own life with four children, and focuses on time management, passion and productivity, which is useful for older teens and adults. She is also able to present for all ages about how the editorial process is a major part of the job, honing in on specific editorial skills that can be used in the classroom. All of Alice's work is supported with free online material that teachers and librarians can refer back to at www.alicekuipers.com.
She has worked with all age groups in the school system and loves to talk about how students can work on their own writing or how they can make their own books.
Here are the titles of presentations she has given successfully, although she can easily tailor a presentation to your group:
Local Stories (For Grades 8-12): How I Write and How You Can Too.
Artful Editing (For Grades 8-12).
From Sloppy Copy to A Finished Draft (Grades 3-7)
Writing Tips for Your Best Stories (for Grades 4, 5, 6 and 7)
Polly Diamond Loves to Write—So Can You (For Grade1-3, based around my chapter book)
Violet and Victor Love to Write—So Can You (for Kindergarten and Grade 1 students, based around my picture books)
Me and Me and You: How I Wrote a Novel and How You Can Find Inspiration for Your Own Stories Hiding Inside (for teenagers, based on the singer songwriter main character, Lark, in my novel Me and Me)
Also, here's a talk Alice did recently for adults on Facebook Live, so you can see her presenting—this wasn't for students, but it gives you as sense of Alice's passion for her topics.
Book List
Always Smile: A memoir of teenager Carley Allison (Kids Can Press, Spring 2019)
Polly Diamond (Chronicle Press, May 2018)
Me and Me (HarperCollins Canada, May 2017)
Violet and Victor Write the Most Fabulous Fairy Tale (Little Brown Books for Young Readers, 2016)
Violet and Victor Write the Best-Ever Bookworm Book (Little Brown Books for Young Readers, 2014)
The Death of Us (HarperCollins Canada, 2015)
40 Things I Want to Tell You (HarperCollins Canada, 2013)
The Worst Thing She Ever Did (HarperCollins, 2011)
Life on the Refrigerator Door (HarperCollins, 2009)
Bestselling author Alice Kuipers was born in London. She moved to Canada in 2003. Her first novel, Life on the Refrigerator Door, won several awards. Since then, she has published three further award-winning YA novels internationally, with the fourth, The Death of Us, a CLA shortlisted title. Me (and) Me, her fifth YA novel, is described by Bif Naked as mesmerising. Her picture book Violet and Victor Write the Best Ever Bookworm Book was selected as an Amazon best pick and Violet and Victor Write the Most Fabulous Fairy Tale was a Winter Indie 2015 Selection. She has an upcoming chapter book series with Chronicle Press and she is writing a memoir about teenager Carley Allison with Kids Can Press. She has had stories produced for CBC and essays published in Bristol Review of Books and Easy Living magazine. She blogged for Today's Parent, and The Huffington Post.
Alice's work has been published in 34 countries and her first novel has been made into plays in London, Paris and Tokyo.
She became a writer because she loves to read and you can always find Alice with her head in a book—if she isn't running around after her four children. She loves to share writing tips and hints. Find free access to her online writing course Freeflow: A Writing Journey here: www.alicekuipers.com
The Death of Us
- Nominated for the 2015 SaskEnergy Young Adult Literature Award
- Shortlisted for the Canadian Library Association 2015 Young Adult Book Award
40 Things I Want To Tell You
- A Renaud-Bray Coup de Coeur (2013)
- Winner of the 2013 Saskatchewan Book Awards Young Adult Literature Award
- Named an Honour Book for the 2013 CLA Young Adult Book Award
- Shortlisted for the 2013 Stellar Book Award
- One of CBC's 100 Young Adult Books That Make You Proud to be Canadian
The Worst Thing She Ever Did
(Published in the US as Lost for Words)
- Winner of the 2011 Arthur Ellis Award, Best Juvenile/YA Crime Book
- 2011 OLA White Pine Official Selection
- 2011 Bank Street College of Education's Best Children's Books of the Year selection for 2011
- The Canadian Children's Book Centre's Best Books for Kids and Teens 2011 selection
Life on the Refrigerator Door
- Winner of the 2009 Redbridge Teenage Book Award (UK)
- Winner of the 2009 Sheffield Libraries Choice Book Award (UK)
- Winner of the 2009 Saskatchewan First Book Award (Canada)
- Winner of the 2009 Lieutenant Governor's 30 Below Arts Award (Canada)
- Winner of the 2009 Grand Prix de Viarmes (France)
- Winner of the 2009 Livrentête Prize, young adult category (France)
- Winner of the 2009 Aficion'Ados prize (France)
- Winner of the 2009 Sweyne Park School Year 7 Book Award (UK)
- Shortlisted for the 2009 Coventry Inspiration Book Award (UK)
- Shortlisted for the 2009 Oxfordshire Book Award (UK)
- Shortlisted for the 2009 Salt Lake City County Library System Reader's Choice Award (US)
- Longlisted for the 2009 Carnegie Medal (UK)
"Alice's enthusiasm, commitment and generosity of time, both in classrooms and behind the scenes, helped us create a truly authentic and wonderful writing experience for our students. Alice helped our students see themselves as writers. … It is her authentic approach in helping kids see themselves as readers and writers, which truly sets Alice apart."
—Brad Hidlebaugh, Vice Principal, Brunskill School
"Alice is incredibly personable and engaging. Her author reading included a presentation with a wonderful variety of information — from how a book is written, to the illustration process, to the life of a writer – all presented with a warmth and enthusiasm and that captivated a large group of primary students. It was educational as well as motivational. My favourite part of the presentation was when one of the students put up his hand and answered, "Never give up!" Alice's passion for writing, and her joy in sharing with others, was obvious in the way she took the time to speak to, and connect with, each child individually during the event." —
—Tammy Ward, B.Ed., B.A., Library Assistant, Glen Elm Branch Library
"In all honesty it has been a privilege to have you work with students. It is an accomplishment and speaks to your talent that you are able to motivate an entire class of middle schoolers to complete creative writing pieces and have them be willing to confer with you and revise/edit. Sometimes it is like pulling teeth to get every kid to write!"
—Carolyn Barton, teacher
"Your collaboration to inspire and develop student authors looks just wonderful! Thank you so much for your hard work to pull this project together. We can't wait to have the booklets printed for the students and share their stories with our sponsors. What a beautiful gift from the heart!"
—Mary-Jo, Organiser Literacy for Life conference


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College Matters
posed2's periodic roundup of college-to-career headlines
Gen Z Feels Less Prepared for Work Than Did Prior Generations
A recent study conducted by Wakefield Research for Ellucian, a global provider of software and services for higher education, documents the growing importance of credentials; a soft skills gap among college grads; and the need for education business models that support lifelong learning.
By their own report, students are enrolling in college to improve their career prospects, and yet, they wonder whether they're learning skills that will prepare them for today's workforce. Their concerns are amplified as big employers such as Google, Apple, and others have begun to look past college degrees in order to identify and recruit talent.
Both students and recruiters concur that credentials - in addition to traditional degrees - are now essential to students' job prospects.
Transferable soft skills - such as communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving - increasingly are recognized as critical to career success.
The future of work is changing rapidly, and the implications for college students today are becoming more clear. As emerging technologies morph the nature of work, and future hiring needs become more difficult to project, employers are placing new emphasis on transferable "soft" skills, such as critical thinking, accountability, public speaking, and collaboration.
Additionally, employers are recognizing the value of boot camps and online credentials in filling their hiring needs. In the words of Ernst and Young's managing partner for talent, Maggie Stilwell, "Academic qualifications will still be taken into account and indeed remain an important consideration when assessing candidates as a whole, but will no longer act as a barrier to getting a foot in the door."
To stand out among peers, students need to adopt an attitude of life-long learning. In addition to the domain specific knowledge and skills of their chosen major, they also need to recognize and commit to mastering soft skills.
Header image by Kim Salt, for the New York Times.
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Car shipping to Nigeria from USA and other overseas company must always be handled by a professional and reliable shipping company. Your car is a part of you, so you want to be sure it is in safe hands. The shipping industry is becoming large and attracting a lot of competition. The good thing, however…
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However, she made a throwaway comment which caused my Writer Senses (like spider senses, but with less webbing) to tingle. She said that before she could finish any of her stories she always ended up getting an idea for another one. Her stories weren't getting finished.
Well, this is an issue which is close to my heart - and probably to the hearts of many reading this blog. For a lot of young and not-so-young writers, the problem of actually managing to complete a story/novel crops up again and again. If you want to learn more, read on. I warn you - this post is long. Very long. It may have developed its own gravitational field by now...
The thing is, it doesn't sound difficult to finish a story. In fact, you'd think it would be the most natural and easy thing in the world. You start it, then you do some noodley bits in the middle, then you write The End and you've finished. Yeah?
For many years, whenever I told family and friends that I was starting a new novel their response would be a long-suffering sigh and mutters of 'If only you could FINISH one...' At first this didn't bother me much. Because, of course, the story that I'd just abandoned at three chapters was lame and pointless, but this new story, well, this was the perfect story, it was awesome and of course I was going to finish it, right? Oh, Young Zolah, how very wrong you were. Because three chapters into that awesome new story, somehow all the new and awesome had always drained out of it, and there would be MUCH better idea lurking in the back of your mind waiting to pounce.
I loved writing. I always have. I'm a writing geek. I play with words constantly, steal parts of overheard conversations, note down news stories, and have new stories, characters and worlds constantly crowding into my head. Which is supposed to be a good thing, isn't it? Having so much love for writing should have made it easy for me to finish lots and lots of stories. But it didn't. By the time I'd hit my teens I'd gotten to the point where I couldn't even finish a three page story for an English class. That was okay at school, because I usually ended up writing twelve pages instead of three, and the teacher would be so impressed they'd overlook the lack of ending. I wasn't overlooking it, though. I'd started to get this creeping, icy sense of anxiety. Maybe there was something wrong with me. Maybe I couldn't finish stories.
Maybe I never would.
When I was sixteen I decided I wanted to write category romance (Mills and Boon for those of you in the UK, something like Harlequin Romance for those in the US). I was reading these non-stop at the time, mostly because they sold ten for a quid in the local charity shops, and were available by the thousand in the library. They were so plentiful that I could read about ten in a weekend and still have twenty left to keep me going throughout the week. No other genre in the publishing industry could keep up with me. I did some research. I found out that the ladies who wrote these books could make a really good living from it. I did some more research and wrote to the publisher for a set of their guidelines. This set out exactly how many words each book could have and what sort of storylines you could use. It was almost like an essay assignment at school. Armed with all my facts and figures, I set out to write one of these books.
Somehow, the fact that I had been given a word target and a fairly narrow list of requirements, combined with my in-depth knowledge of the genre made it possible for me, in between school and homework and TV and the rest, to bash out a 50,000 word romance novel in about four months.
You can probably imagine my triumph. I'd beaten the jinx. I'd proven I could really be a proper writer. I don't think my feet even touched the ground for about a week after typing The End.
On a roll (so I thought) I submitted the novel to Mills and Boon. And the inevitable happened. I was summarily rejected. Looking back, I can only thank the God of Writers for his unexpected kindness there, because that book STANK. At the time, though, it was a huge blow.
I carried on trying to get published with category romances for a couple more years, but my old problem had returned. I couldn't finish them. Instead I would write three chapters and a synopsis, send it to the romance publishing company, get rejected and move onto a new story.
Then when I was eighteen, through various coincidences, I found the genre which was to become my perfect home. YA Fantasy. Just like always, I began to read voraciously in my chosen field, digging out old favourites and discovering new ones, until I had, once again, become an expert in my genre. Once again, I did my research, found out what sort of word target I needed to aim at. Once again, I checked out submission guidelines (on publisher's websites this time). Then the idea for Blood Magic came to me.
By this time I was working full-time in an office, but that didn't stop me *living* inside that story for months. I remember putting customers on hold for a minute so I could scribble ideas on odd bits of paper. I remember leaning on the concrete wall of the tea-room, jotting down dialogue while colleagues stared. And I can remember thinking: I WILL COMPLETE THIS BOOK. I loved it - the story, the characters, the fictional world - so much that I just had to. I had to find out how it finished!
I drew up a little chart of how many words I should write a day, and gave myself a target, about nine months away, for completion. Unlike with previous stories I didn't go back and revise previous chapters, because I was always too busy writing the next one. I smashed my target, completing the book about six months early, because I just couldn't stop writing.
And although Blood Magic never got published, writing it was actually the best thing I ever did. It was when I submitted it to (and was rejected by) Walker Books, that I came into contact with the gentleman who was later to become my first editor. After the book was rejected he called me up to tell me how much he liked my 'voice' and to ask me to send him anything else I wrote. A year almost to the day after submitting Blood Magic, I sent him The Swan Kingdom. Within a couple of months I had a publishing contract - and an agent too.
So, what is the point of this rambling story? Well, let's have a look at the facts here. Just like many of you, I couldn't finish stories. Except that I COULD - with the right conditions. I proved that with my romance novel and later with Blood Magic and the books that came after. So, what are the right conditions? How do you go about writing a story in such a way that you will be able to finish it?
- RESEARCH. Read widely in your chosen field! Glory in it! Devour everything you can get your hands on. Read books you love and books you hate. Re-read both kinds and learn from them. In short, become an expert. Because that way you will be filled with a sense of confidence that you know exactly where your book fits in - that your ideas are original and interesting, and worthy of their own book - and this confidence will propel you forward to complete it.
- TARGETS. Decide how long you want your book to be (look at other books in your genre and look at publisher's guidelines if you can find them). Decide what date you want to complete it by and how many words you should write a day or a week (be reasonable, though. Even if you only write 500 words a day - two typed pages - that would be 182500 words by the end of the year! Enough for two or three books at least). Then do everything you can to stick to those targets. You won't always be able to manage it. The original word target for Shadows on the Moon was 65,000 words and the original completion target was April 2009. Instead, the first draft was 130,000 words long and I didn't complete until October 2009. But having targets will give you a sense that you're working on something that can and will be finished one day.
- PASSION. Don't write the first idea that pops into your head. Don't be distracted by fleeting, glamorous images and launch into writing without really thinking them through. Don't read someone else's book, get 'inspired' and end up writing fanfic disguised as something else, telling yourself no one will notice. You need to be in LOVE with your story. Cherish it, think about it deeply, live inside the characters and love or hate them. Give all your imagination to one idea and let it grow and mature within you. Let it become something so special and unique, filled with so many of your own deepest values and feelings, that no one else on the planet could write it but you. Then when you come to put it down on paper, nothing will be able to put you off, because nothing in the whole world will be as exciting to you as the story you're working on RIGHT NOW.
- MOMENTUM. Just write. Keep your eye on the target and keep pushing forward. Don't give into the temptation to keep going back and revising those first pages or chapters. Maybe they suck, but so what? You can fix anything in revision - once you've finished the book. You can't fix it right now, though. In fact, it's pointless trying to revise an unfinished story, and you know why - because you get caught in the death spiral of doubting yourself and the story and never finish it. So just think about that glorious, heart-rending, funny, sad, change-your-life forever ending that you're going to create. Believe in that ending. Reach for it. And somehow, before you know it, you really will be writing it.


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Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over market movements, we do like to keep an eye on big changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.
What: Shares of SUPERVALU Inc. (NYSE:SVU) were heading to the top shelf today, gaining as much 15% and finishing up 12% after besting expectations in its quarterly earnings report.
So what: The supermarket chain posted a per-share profit of $0.18, ahead of estimates at $0.15, while revenue inched up 1.5% to $3.95 billion, topping the consensus at $3.88 billion. Same-store sales at its Save-A-Lot locations improved 2.1%, while comps its other locations were close to flat. The quarter seems to be evidence that efforts to streamline the company have paid off after it sold several grocery banners last year, including Albertson's and Shaw's, and CEO Sam Duncan said, "We stabilized the organization and set the foundation for the future."
Now what: After jumping out of the gate this morning, shares fell back during the earnings call when management said EBITDA in the current fiscal year would be less than last year as the company invests in price and build the business. Analysts had been expecting EPS growth of 18% in the current year, which may have caused the sell-off but over the remainder of the trading day the stock recovered as investing for the long term looks like a smart move. Still, the supermarket industry is always competitive, with big boxes like Wal-Mart expanding their offerings, and changes are afoot with organic products taking share from conventional ones. Keep an eye on same-store sales in future quarters as a reflection that the company is still headed in the right direction.


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Search results for author:"Nancy Staus"
Total records matched: 1 Search took: 0.065 secs
TPACK Development in a Three-year Online Masters Program: How Do Teacher Perceptions Align with Classroom Practice?
Nancy Staus; Henry Gillow-Wiles; Margaret Niess
Journal of Technology and Teacher Education Vol. 22, No. 3 (July 2014) pp. 333–360
A new primarily distance education Master's degree program was focused on the development of technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK) for integrating appropriate digital technologies in mathematics and science classes. In this mixed...


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In May once MythTV 0.23 was released we reported on some of the early MythTV 0.24 plans, which included a new MythUI On-Screen Display, a mostly rewritten audio subsystem, and initial Blu-ray disc support. The first release candidate for MythTV 0.24 is now available five months later with these changes plus more.
While MythTV faces greater competition these days from XBMC, Enna, Boxee, and the like for ruling your home-theater PC software, MythTV 0.24 aims to up its competitiveness with some of the new v0.24 features. As said in the MythTV 0.24 RC1 announcement, "Just in time for holiday television specials, cold winter nights, and impressing all of your friends and family when they visit, the first Release Candidate for MythTV 0.24 is now available."
The new MythTV features mentioned with this development milestone include a completely rewritten and theme-able on-screen display, support for 24-bit audio and HD audio formats, initial Blu-ray disc support, experimental support for Broadcom Crystal HD hardware-accelerated video decoding, and other improvements.
The MythTV, MythPlugins, and MythThemes packages are all at v0.24 RC1 status.


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National Health Center Week kicks off
TORRINGTON >> A local health service center is participating in a national three-day event to promote and raise awareness for healthcare services.
Community Health and Wellness Center of Greater Torrington (CHWC) is welcoming residents across Litchfield County to take part in National Health Center Week, which started on Tuesday and runs through Thursday. Health care agencies from across the county, including Family Strides, New Opportunities, Planned Parenthood and the Susan B. Anthony Project, will participate.
Jessica Vandine is a case manager at CHWC and Anna Felger serves as the center's HIV program coordinator. Both helped organize the event, which has been organized at the CHWC for four years. The three-day event is actually part of a nation-wide initiative.
"We just want people to come in and visit the center, kind of get a feel for what we do here, what we offer, and this is just a nice way to showcase what we do and also what other community organizations do as well," Felger said.
Vandine said the event will help people become aware of the services available to them in their community.
The three-day event started at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday. The start included remarks from Mayor Ryan Bingham, who issued a proclamation for National Health Center Week. He said he was proud of the center's staff and Kathy Grimaud, the CEO of CHWC.
"They just do a great job serving people in our community and greater Torrington," Bingham said. "I was glad to give the proclamation, and I was glad to be in attendance. I look forward to seeing them grow."
Eight area community health service organization will be participating in the health care week, and there will even be activities like face painting, raffles and prizes.
"We asked other community agencies that are in Litchfield County to come and also show their support services as well as ours to the community so that the community knows that we're here," Vandine said.
Some of the services that CHWC offers include free and confidential HIV testing, behavioral care for established patients, dental services and primary care, Vandine said. The center's work in the community was recognized in June when it was awarded a Quality of Life Award from the Northwest Connecticut's Chamber of Commerce.
There are many people who simply are not aware of what types of services are offered by the various health care organizations, and the three-days will serve as a one-stop shop for people, Vandine said.
"We've been advertising everywhere, like on the radio — we did some flyers," Vandine said. "We're hoping to get at least 50 people per day, to draw them in and show them what we offer and what other people offer."
Blood pressure screenings, HIV testing and blood sugar screening will also be available during the three-day event for free.
Amy Wescott is a host at radio station WZBG in Litchfield. She broadcasted live from inside the CHWC lobby on Tuesday, and said the radio station has been helping out with the event for a couple of years.
"It's important in the community, having a places like this in our city, to help people that don't have the necessities like insurance," Wescott said. "Our being here is the voice getting the word out on the facility."
Karen Gillespie is a dental hygienist at CHWC, and was interviewed by Wescott on Tuesday morning.
"It just promotes awareness that we're here and we're ready to help people," Gillespie said. "Regardless of coverage, or lack thereof, we're here to help people."
Reach Esteban L. Hernandez (860) 489-3121, ext. 328.


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Call 0333 800 1828 to speak to one of our lighting consultants or send an email to email@example.com to get a competitive quote.
We also offer a bespoke LED strip light assembly service for immediate installation. The assembly comprises an LED light strip slotted and glued into specially designed aluminium profiles and diffusers. Each kit is custom-made to meet specified profile shape and length, LED strip type and density, colour temperature, brightness level, effect (CRI >80 or >90, upon request) and voltages. Our wide range of aluminium LED profiles are available to meet various requirements, for example profiles with flanges to cover the uneven edges of any grooves routed in MDF, walls, ceilings, etc or with pre-drilled holes for surface-mounting. Others are angled for mounting in corners or as cove lighting. See our range of profiles here.
Prolux LED strip lights offer a high degree of versatility in use. Individual strip lights can be joined easily with 'interlocking' connectors, several Prolux kits can be joined together, or connected to LED light panels and/or LED light boxes. Power requirements are so low that even complex set-ups need only a single 12V or 24V transformer.
Consider Prolux LED strip lighting for your next project, you will be amazed how versatile it is. Give us a call if you require any further information or discussion.
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Image 3 Expect even lighting without spotting.


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AV Monografías 128
Luis Fernández-Galiano
El mundo que viene
The World to Come
Veinte países, veinte estudios Twenty Countries, Twenty Studios
Alemania Germany, FNP Architekten
Pabellones de madera (Alemania) Wood Pavilions (Germany)
Viviendas en Killesberg, Stuttgart (Alemania) Killesberg Housing, Stuttgart (Germany)
Australia Australia, Terroir
Restaurante en Peppermint Bay (Australia) Peppermint Bay Restaurant (Australia)
Casa en Castle Cove, Sidney (Australia) Castle Cove House, Sydney (Australia)
Austria Austria, Alles Wird Gut
Jardín de infancia, Arlberg (Austria) Kindergarten, Arlberg (Austria)
MOM Adidas, Baviera (Alemania) Adidas MOM, Bavaria (Germany)
Chile Chile, Pezo & Von Ellrichshausen
Casa Wolf, San Pedro (Chile) Wolf House, San Pedro (Chile)
Casa Parr, Chiguayante (Chile) Parr House, Chiguayante (Chile)
China China, MAD
Club Social Hong Luo, Pekín (China) Hong Luo Club House, Beijing (China)
Pabellón de Dinamarca, Copenhague (Dinamarca) Denmark Pavilion, Copenhagen (Denmark)
Corea Korea, UnSangDONG Architects Cooperation
Galería Yeh, Seúl (Corea del Sur) Yeh Gallery, Seoul (South Korea)
Complejo Cultural, Gwangju (Corea del Sur) Asian Culture Complex, Gwangju (South Korea)
Dinamarca Denmark, BIG
Hospital psiquiátrico, Elsinor (Dinamarca) Psychiatric Hospital, Helsingør (Denmark)
Viviendas en Ørestad, Copenhague (Dinamarca) Big House in Ørestad, Copenhagen (Denmark)
Eslovenia Slovenia, Bevk Perovic Arhitekti
Facultad de Matemáticas, Ljubljana (Eslovenia) Faculty of Mathematics, Ljubljana (Slovenia)
Viviendas en Vilharjeva (Eslovenia) Vilharjeva Housing (Slovenia)
España Spain, Cloud 9/Enric Ruiz Geli
Villa Nurbs, Empuriabrava (España) Villa Nurbs, Empuriabrava (Spain)
Acuario de Nueva York (Estados Unidos) New York Aquarium (United States)
Estados Unidos United States, Xefirotarch
Pabellón P.S.1, Nueva York (Estados Unidos) P.S.1 Pavilion, New York (United States)
Pabellón Seroussi, París (Francia) Seroussi Pavilion, Paris (France)
Francia France, Block
Viviendas en Les Herbiers (Francia) Les Herbiers Housing (France)
Residencia turística en Sainte-Féréole (Francia) Residence in Sainte-Féréole (France)
Irlanda Ireland, Boyd Cody Architects
Casa en Richmond Place, Dublín (Irlanda) Richmond Place House, Dublin (Ireland)
Casa Dromard, Sligo (Irlanda) Dromard House, Sligo (Ireland)
Japón Japan, Sou Fujimoto Architects
Casa O, Chiba (Japón) O House, Chiba (Japan)
Casa N, Oita (Japón) N House, Oita (Japan)
Luxemburgo Luxembourg, Polaris
Pabellón Skip, Belval (Luxemburgo) Skip Pavilion, Belval (Luxembourg)
Diseño Urbano en Colonia (Alemania), Urban Design in Cologne (Germany)
México Mexico, LAR/Fernando Romero
Casa de Té, Jinhua (China) Bridge Tea House, Jinhua (China)
Museo Soumaya, México D.F. (México) Soumaya Museum, Mexico D.F. (Mexico)
Países Bajos The Netherlands, BAR Architects
Cabina de control, Middelburg (Países Bajos) Bridge House, Middelburg (The Netherlands)
Casas en Nesselande, Rotterdam (Países Bajos) Nesselande Houses, Rotterdam (The Netherlands)
Portugal Portugal, Atelier da Bouça
Centro Ambiental, Chã de Lamas (Portugal) Environmental Center, Chã de Lamas (Portugal)
Centro Ambiental, Lisboa (Portugal) Environmental Center, Lisbon (Portugal)
Reino Unido United Kingdom, Plasma Studio
Casa Esker, San Cándido (Italia) Esker House, San Candido (Italy)
Biblioteca de la Universidad de Darmstadt (Alemania) Darmstadt University Library (Germany)
Suecia Sweden, Tham & Videgård Hansson
Museo de Arte, Kalmar (Suecia) Art Museum, Kalmar (Sweden)
Casa de verano en el sur (Suecia) Summerhouse in the South (Sweden)
Suiza Switzerland, EM2N
Ampliación del Archivo Público, Liestal (Suiza) Public Records Office Extension, Liestal (Switzerland)
Toni-Areal, Zúrich (Suiza) Toni-Areal, Zurich (Switzerland)
Selecting a representative group of emerging offices is always a risky bet, and throughout this journey in the dark we have guided ourselves by several arbitrary boundaries and some uncertain hints. The boundaries have been the inevitable one of age – set at the usual forty years – and the decision to publish one single team per country, independently from their economic and demographic dimension, a dubious criterion that however permits creating a manageable list, having in mind that this number extends its geographic reach (restricted to Spain or Europe in prior compilations on young architects in our magazines) to the whole planet. For their part, the hints used to prepare the list have been the many awards given to new offices and the condition of their having completed at least one work. So this is how our summary has been prepared: feeling the walls limiting ages and countries, and half-closing our eyes to perceive the weak clarity of the distinctions and the accomplishments.
As a result of this demanding and random process, the list of teams presented – each illustrated with one work and one project – is marked by inconsistencies, and perhaps also by findings. Significant countries are missing, and others are represented by teams of equivocal location; there are architects that have been emerging for a decade, and others that, being officially young, lead sizeable offices; there are firms that are fully local in terms of members and commissions, and others that are as cosmopolitan in their composition as in the geographic dispersion of their works. These wrinkles and holes blur the Cartesian list of merit, but also give texture and thickness to this portrait in smoke: in it we discern evanescent shadows and vague dreams along with flint sparks and steel reflections. It is not easy to know whether the overall result heralds fog or fire, but its gauzy penumbra composes a pixelled depiction of a world in fragments, and in those mirror shards we see not what is coming but what we are.


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Pre-constructionhomes.com mainly provides easy access and multiple options for people who want to purchase new and pre-construction homes. An advanced search & aggregation platform allows for instant up to date information on say… Cooper City and Stuart home builders, their respective communities and models their in. Prices of new homes in major markets range between $150,000 dollars to we'll over $2 million dollars. Buying a home from a homebuilder can be rewarding, as they offer robust incentives like discounted closing cost credits, free upgrades and a great warranty. Buyers can feel free to customize their new home by choosing finishes, colors & upgrades or by choosing one of the professionally designed models. Get accurate info from in-house project specialists to take advantage of the builder's latest promo to access mouthwatering discounts.
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Treaty of Versailles
- Created by: juddr12
- Created on: 15-02-15 20:58
The organisation of the Peace Conference (1)
Two months proceeding the Armistice, the Paris Peace Conference opened on the 18th of January 1919, which was the anniversary of the proclamation of the German empire in 1871.
The Peace Conference consisted of representatives of 32 victorious nations, excluding Russia and the other defeated States. Originally, the winners were to have created the Treaty and the losers were to negotiate after. However, given the event of the war, there wasn't enough time to negotiate a peace settlement with the people who lost. The Peace negotiation was described by the French as "fait accompli", which is a term that describes an action which is completed and imposes on people that can't question or reverse it. The losers of the war were threatened with a renewal of war if they didn't agree to the terms.
Most decisions were made by the Big Three: Woodrow Wilson (USA), Georges Clemenceau (France) and David Lloyd George (Britain). Originally, there were 5 nations with Italy and Japan, but Japan had bigger issues in the east and Orlando from Italy had a row with Wilson during one of the conferences.
The Germans were shown the Treaty, and had a few objections. However, they were threatened with war if they didn't sign it. They signed it at Versailles on the 28th June 1919, chosen puposefully to insult Germany, because of the proclamation of the German empire on 18th January 1871 following France's defeat in the Franco-Prussian war that was made at Versailles.
The organisation of the Peace Conference (2)
The other four treaties of the losing states were midly negotiated and signed on the following dates:
- Austria signed the Treaty of St. Germain on September 10th 1919.
- Bulgaria signed the Treaty of Neuilly on 27th November 1919.
- Hungary signed the Treaty of Trianon on 4th June 1920.
- Turkey signed the Treaty of Sevres on 10th August 1920.
Following the signings of these treaties, the USA left any further involvement in the peace settlement and completly disregarded the policies of the Treaty, including the League of Nations. This was because it blatantly contradicted point 5 of Wilson's "Fourteen Points".
Peace Conference
Due to the First World War's sudden ending, a peace settlement had to be made quickly. The losers, including Germany, had to pay for the 8-10 million killed in the war, the £24 billion financial costs, the distorted economies due to the war, the land that was ruined, the food shortage and the public unrest that followed the war.
Russia couldn't attend the peace conference because of her Civil war. Lloyd George and Woodrow Wilson wanted her to attend because of the many problems that needed to be resolved in eastern Europe.
Some claim that the Treaty was rushed and that it was inevitable that it ended badly.
Harold Nickelson said that the Treaty was like "bad champagne", meaning that it had a bad taste although it symbolises something nice, joyous and peaceful.
Terms of the Treaty (1)
The 'War Guilt Clause' (Article 231) claimed that the Germans were responsible for "causing all the loss and damage".
Article 232 stated that the Germans would pay £6.6 billion in reparations. This sum of money was too difficult to discuss in the peace conference alone. Therefore, a separate commission was created named the "Reparations Commission".
Germany's army was to be limited to 100,000 troops with no tanks nor heavy guns. They could only have 12 capital ships, but no submarines. No air force either. This was the first step of wider disarmament.
13% of Germany was given to Britain and France. Wilson, however, thought that this was hypocritical of his "14 points", especially "self-determination" (point 5).
- The Rhineland was a 50km ***** of land that separated Rhine (in Germany) and France. It would be demilitarised forever by German troops, but were to be replete with troops from the Big Free for 15 years.
- East Prussia was separated from the main part of Germany by the Polish Corridor, which was given to Poland for access to the sea which used to be called Posen.
Terms of the Treaty (2)
Further terms and clauses said that any future union between Germany and Austria was forbidden. Germany couldn't join the League of Nations until they showed acceptable behaviour, but they were finally admitted in 1926, but Hitler redrew in 1933.
Germany couldn't negotiate these terms and she had to sign the Treaty or face renewal of war. The Allies wanted a quick settlement and not a repeat of the Congress of Vienna of 1815.
Criticisms of the Treaty of Versailles (1)
The Treaty's main criticism is that it happened far too quickly and inevitably failed to maintain peace in Europe given the revenge of the Second World War.
The German Problem
How was Germany able to trade and form strong relationships with other countries, while they are contained, condemned and repressed by the Treaty?
Germany would still be powerful after the Treaty. She had 50% more people than France and four times their heavy industry. The Treaty of Versailles would only hinder progress of international relations.
After the war, the Germans believed that they had won the war on the Eastern Front, therefore their win made them expect to be in an alliance against Bolshevik Russia. They believed that Wilson would honour his "fourteen points", but the Germans were misguided. Therefore, the Treaty that was made, shocked and angered the Germans to become rebellious to the League.
Criticisms of the Treaty of Versailles (2)
John Maynard Keynes
Keynes was the most prominent critic of the Treaty in his book named the "Economic Consequences of Peace".
His main arguments were that:
- The Big Three lacked the vision and courage to address Europe's economic prolems. Each of the three were concerned with themselves, rather than European recovery. Clemenceau was driven by anti-German patriotism. Lloyd George was sure to protect the advantages of only the British empire. Wilson felt outnumbered and couldn't cope with the other two.
- Germany was denied of the ability to flourish or survive. The Germans should have been given reparations of 2.1 billion pounds maximum, but the Armistice Terms expanded to include money for pensions and separation allowances.
- The currencies held by the new countries of Europe and Germany would be bereft of trade without help from the USA.
Criticisms of the Treaty of Versailles (3)
His own proposals included:
- Reparations would decrease to £2 billion.
- There should be a free-trade Union among European states.
- Coal given to France by Germany should be the difference between the amount France produced before and after the war. Including a ceiling set at 20,000,000 tons a year.
- All Inter-Allied debts would be dropped.
- The USA should offer a billion dollars to Europe to help with reconstruction.
Criticisms of Keynes
Seymor, in 1920, argued that the book wasn't objective analysis. Ogg supported his view: "his book gives more evidence of moral indignation than of intellectual discrimination". Ogg continues to argue that Keynes complains more about the economy and ignores the political considerations.
Etienne Mantoux, in 1944, wrote a book named "The Carthaginian Peace", which argued that Germany was able to pay reparations. He showed how Germany could shift her industrial production to produce products that countries wanted. He wanted to prove Keynes wrong in many ways. For example, Keynes predicted that the European output would decrease, but, by 1929, it was up by 10% since 1913.
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Payasitas NiFu NiFa Tú No Eres Para Mí - Single
Genres: Children'sFull-size cover art
Release date: 27.12.2016
Release date: 27.12.2016
1. Tu No Eres Para Mí (03:38)
Previews of this tracks proivided by Itunes.
Here you can find track previews from release Tú No Eres Para Mí - Single by artist Payasitas NiFu NiFa. This album was released 27.12.2016 and containing 1 tracks. Listen online Payasitas NiFu NiFa - Tú No Eres Para Mí - Single previews (30 seconds length) is free and don't require registration. For buy album Payasitas NiFu NiFa - Tú No Eres Para Mí - Single please follow to music stores. If we have other releases and albums Payasitas NiFu NiFa you can see it on this page. All music content by Payasitas NiFu NiFa is presented for reference only.


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Purchase a Multi-currency Cash Passport™
The Multi-currency Cash Passport is available for purchase at any TSB branch with Foreign Exchange service (Takapuna, Hamilton, Tauranga, Hawkes Bay, New Plymouth, Palmerston North, and Nelson).
To purchase a Multi-currency Cash Passport, simply fill out an application form at a TSB Foreign Exchange service and present acceptable photo identification. You will then be issued with your Multi-currency Cash Passport card on the spot, ready for use overseas.
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1Before you make a decision to acquire the Card, please check www.cashpassport.com for the latest currencies supported. 2The prevailing exchange rate is locked in for the initial load value only. Subsequent card reloads will be processed at the then prevailing exchange rate on the day of the reload transaction, and will be locked in at that rate.
Cash Passport MasterCard is an unsecured debt security issued by Travelex Card Services Limited, a member of the Travelex group. Cash Passport MasterCard is not guaranteed by any member of the Travelex group or any other entity. A prospectus is available free of charge from www.cashpassport.com/multi. MasterCard and the MasterCard brand mark are registered trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated. The promoter of the prize draw is Access Prepaid New Zealand Ltd.
© TSB BANK LIMITED 2008-2020. Use of this website is subject to our Website Policy. TSB BANK Limited is in trade for the purposes of the Fair Trading Act 1986.
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Innovation will be the key to the survival of advanced economies in the intensifying competition with emerging powers with cost advantages.
But simply boosting the amount of money spent on research and development will not create innovative products or services. And innovation is not just about technological breakthrough, it's about creating an environment to facilitate new businesses and ideas.
These were some of the statements made by five veteran journalists from British newspapers who took part in the May 23 symposium organized by Keizai Koho Center under the theme, "Innovation to be the winner in international competition." Yuichiro Yamagata, editorial director of Toyo Keizai Inc., served as moderator of the event.
"When people talk about innovation, the image given is of scientists working at R&D laboratories, engaged in breakthrough work," said Damian Reece, head of the business section of The Daily Telegraph.
But the innovation that took place in Britain during the past 30 years "has not just been in the field of industry . . . . It has been innovation in every walk of life," he said.
"Innovation at a specific level of a complex economy such as those of the U.K. and Japan cannot happen overnight, nor can it happen on its own. Innovation requires a catalyst . . . a common will and purpose," Reece told the audience.
When Britain in the 1970s was struggling to come to terms with what it meant to be a postindustrial society, the Conservative government of Margaret Thatcher provided "the necessary conditions to allow economic innovation to blossom" through tax reforms and deregulation, he said.
Perhaps the biggest single success story of British innovation in recent decades is the financial services industry in the City of London, which flourished after the Big Bang deregulation in the 1980s, he said.
Thatcher's reforms were also hugely controversial, and the prime minister was criticized for destroying Britain's manufacturing industry.
Today, there is no doubt that manufacturing is overshadowed by the services sector, said Grainne Gilmore, an economics correspondent for The Times.
The manufacturing sector, which employed almost half the British workforce right after World War II, today provides jobs for less than 15 percent of the country's workers. But what's left of Britain's manufacturing sector is much healthier today and is still making a significant contribution to the economy, Gilmore said.
And innovation will be crucial for its survival because companies that cut prices to compete will eventually move to emerging economies, leaving only those who try to differentiate from their rivals with innovative products and services, she noted.
Innovation is often associated with greater R&D spending, but how much you spend is less important than how you spend the money, said Robin Harding, an economics leader writer for the Financial Times.
While much of R&D spending by Japan comes from the private sector, the British government accounts for a major part of the country's R&D funding, especially on basic research, Harding said. However, Britain's better record than Japan on pure science has not resulted in a greater commercial success, he added.
Harding warned that the Japanese government needs to be careful about its plan to increase spending on pure science R&D because it will not necessarily bring more economic benefits. It should rather focus on how to improve results from existing government-funded research projects, he said.
Another key component of innovation is to combine science and technology with entrepreneurship, said Jonathan Guthrie, an enterprise editor and columnist for the Financial Times.
Despite its tradition dating back to the days of the Industrial Revolution, there is a "bit of disconnect between business and science" in Britain today, Guthrie said. It is becoming more difficult than before to combine the two disciplines because specialization in science and business is much greater, he noted.
"So the future of British innovation lies in fostering collaboration between scientists and business people . . . and this is an area in which Japan could probably do much more as well," he told the audience.
"We need intermediate people who would bridge the gap" between science and business, he said. "Japan is fantastic in terms of innovation within big companies and has great academic research, but I think the two sides don't always communicate very well."


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Check out the first "Ms. Jen's Two Cents." In these short videos, I will share tips related to the mindsets, tools, and strategies for the trauma-sensitive school.
This one is all about an easy to use strategy that can help students (and adults) get regulated. I first learned it from Dr. Dan Siegel at his NACAC presentation in 2015. No tools necessary. Encourage its use anywhere, anytime. Enjoy!
Want to learn more strategies just like this? Attend, Ms. Jen's Level 1 Trauma-Sensitive Schools Training next month in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Main training date is Monday, July 16, 2018. Click here for more information and to register!


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Although we spend a great deal of time in our homes without injury, accident statistics indicate that the home can in fact be a dangerous place to be. Each year, millions of people are injured in accidents in somebody's home, and tens of thousands of people die in home accidents.
The majority of accidents that result in death or a disabling injury are from falling, and many of the falls involve stairways, ramps, porches and landings.
Building codes include specific dimensional requirements for stairways, porches, landings and ramps. Any time a person is injured as the result of a fall related to stairs, ramps, or elevated surfaces or platforms, including porches and balconies, it is important to evaluate the construction to determine if problems or defects resulting from design, construction or maintenance played a role in the fall.
The failure to follow building code requirements, professional building practices, or to properly maintain the premises can result in hazardous and dangerous conditions that may result in liability.
Unsafe Stairs
A leading cause of falling at home is a problem with a stairway. An improperly constructed stairway, landing, or inappropriate door placement at the top of the stairs can cause the stairway to be unsafe.
- Steps should be uniform in height and depth, and treads should be securely attached.
- Stairs should meet the height and depth requirements set forth in the building code.
- Special requirements apply when a stairway bends or curves, and for spiral staircases.
- A stairway should also have safe and proper illumination and wall switch placement.
- Doorways to stairways must not swing over the stairs.
Care must also be taken to ensure appropriate head clearance, so that people going up and down a stairway will not need to duck to avoid striking their head on the roof or an object.
Unsafe Handrails
Within a home, most stairways must have at least one handrail. Depending upon the applicable building code, the requirement for a handrail will apply when a stairway has more than three or four steps.
A handrail in a home or residential building should be positioned between thirty and thirty-eight inches above the leading edge of a stair tread. The handrail must also meet grip size requirements.
Unsafe Guardrails
Whenever a home has a balcony, porch, landing or ramp, or there is an open side to a stairway that is more than thirty inches above a finished ground level or floor below, a continuous guardrail is required. Breaks in a guardrail may occur only at a newel or turn.
- Depending upon the applicable building code, when a guardrail is required, the guardrail must be at least thirty-six inches to forty-two inches in height.
- A guardrail must include intermediate rails to prevent people from falling under the rail.
- Intermediate rails must be no more than six inches apart.
- The guardrail must incorporate a bottom rail or curb that is positioned to prevent the passage of a two-inch sphere.
Unsafe Ramps
When a home has a ramp, maximum slope requirements apply to the ramp, with the maximum rise being 1 in 8 (a ratio, one inch in height for every eight inches in length). If the slope of a ramp is between 1 in 8 and 1 in 12, handrails are required.
A ramp must have a landing that is at least three feet wide and three feet deep at both the top and the bottom of the ramp.


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High Voltage Power Supplies
MH100 Series
100 W Power Supplies Ideal for X-Ray Equipment, CRTs, and More
The versatile MH100 HV modules are suitable for specification in OEM equipment. They are equipped with an analog interface, offer a range of outputs, and can be remotely controlled.
- Max Output Power: 100 W
- Output Voltages: 5 to 50 kV
- Ripple: < 1000 ppm (< 50 Vpp)
- Control Interface: Analog
- Temperature Coefficient: < 200 ppm°C
- Overview
- Technical Specs
- Documents
- Service & Support
Powered by 24 V DC, the adaptable MH100 power supply modules deliver up to 100 W output. Featuring output voltage and current control and monitoring, MH100 series is suitable as component power supplies within X-ray equipment, CRTs, and insulation and materials testing.
Customization is available.
- Experience high reliability
- Meet compliance requirements; CE marked
- Utilize internal potentiometers for additional voltage and current control
- Low ripple
- Short circuit and flashover protection
- Remotely controllable
- V and I control and monitoring
- LED status indication
Output Power
Output Voltage
50 kV
< 1000 ppm (< 50 Vpp)
Temperature Coefficient
< 200 ppm
Operating Temperature Range
0 to 45°C (32 to 113°F)
Storage Temperature Range
-20 to 6°C (-4 to 43°F)
85% max RH
W x D x H
122 x 223 x 98.5 mm3 (4.8 x 9.25 x 3.88 in3)
3 kg (6.6 lb)
Control Interface
15-way female D-type connector
Specifications are subject to change without notice. Not all options and accessories are available for all models and configurations. Dimensions listed generally refer to standard configurations and module bodies only. Please confirm technical specifications and customizations with a sales representative. Advanced Energy is not responsible for errors or omissions.
Global Support & Services
Maximize fab productivity and capital equipment ROI with world-class support through each product lifecycle stage — from startup to long-term operation. Our service offerings are based on more than three decades of precision power and applications expertise.
Applications Support & Consulting
Accelerate tool installations and process development programs, or address specific applications concerns with Advanced Energy's dedicated applications consultants and engineering staff. Benefit from on-site reviews, analyses, and consultations.
Decrease variability in maintenance costs and provide additional cost protection. Advanced Energy offers whole-box extended warranties.
Product Support
Inside the U.S.: 1.800.446.9167 (option 2)
Outside the U.S.
Thin Film Support
Thermal Product Support
Other Technical Support


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Motherhood brings out such complex feelings. The highest of the highs, and the lowest of the lows – sometimes they're one right after another, and other times it can take weeks to climb back out of a low. Two was difficult, but not as hard as I had anticipated – Mini rose to the challenge of being a sibling, and dotes on Mr. Moo, which has made the process so much easier. I'm looking forward to three, she's so bright, inquisitive, kind, thoughtful and caring – and the year should hold some exciting new milestones, like preschool.
She also let me take her three year old photos with minimal fuss, and barely any candy bribery. Granted, when the candy ran out, so did her patience. But I love these photos because they seem to capture all her different expressions and quirks.
If you want to see how much shes changed, check out her two year photo shoot.
Happy birthday sweet girl - you are loved.


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Latest News
'Pig Hunters' Dog Cage
12 Feb 2015 | No Comments | posted by Trufitsheetmetal Team | in Latest News, Uncategorized
After some feedback from the pig hunting community, we have designed a new dog cage! It's a basic cage with spring bolt for fast release. These are only $1000 INC GST.
Customise your cage with a roof rack or centre divider for only $150 + GST (Each)
Order yours now!


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In a little over three years, Wondery has established itself as the largest independent podcast publisher, boasting hit shows such as "Dirty John," "Dr. Death" and "Business Wars." Tune in to hear the company's Founder and CEO, Hernan Lopez, in conversation with Kindred Media President Chris Peterson, as Hernan details his journey from running Fox International Channels to discovering the stories and talent propelling Wondery forward. Find and rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. For more content, follow KindredCast on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. You can hear our radio show every Saturday and Sunday at 2PM on SiriusXM Insight, channel 121.
Stay up to date on all things Kindred.


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Dr. Richard Schwartz is a board certified cosmetic plastic surgeon and has practiced plastic surgery in West Palm Beach for more than 25 years and is renowned for his surgical artistry and natural-appearing surgical results. Dr. Schwartz is board-certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery and has been elected a member of The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, a prestigious group of board-certified surgeons who specialize in aesthetic (cosmetic) surgery.
Dr. Schwartz' interest in plastic surgery began in medical school when he observed reconstructive plastic surgery being performed to repair the injuries of Vietnam War veterans. He found the process of rebuilding and improving the human form to be creative, artistic, and challenging. Dr. Schwartz realized that he wanted to devote himself to improving his patients' quality of life and self-esteem by applying his surgical skills and artistic talents toward their enhanced appearance.
Dr. Schwartz trained in plastic, reconstructive, and hand surgery at The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and in general surgery at The University of Arizona. He graduated from Indiana University School of Medicine and received his undergraduate degree from Franklin and Marshall College.
Dr. Schwartz has remained a life-long student, learning the latest surgical techniques and strategies so that he may continue to offer his patients the most advanced treatment options geared toward their particular situation and goals. Over many years, Dr. Schwartz has also developed an intense interest and skill in oil painting. The artistic sense that has evolved from his study of painting has enhanced his appreciation of beauty and the human form and has allowed Dr. Schwartz to focus both his artist's eye and his surgical skills toward the goal of creating the best surgical result for his patients.
If you would like to meet with Dr. Schwartz and learn how he may be able to help you achieve your aesthetic goals, please request your consultation online or call (561) 232-3120 to schedule an appointment.
Certification: American Board of Plastic Surgery
Surgical Residency Training: Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
General Surgery: University of Arizona Medical Center
MD – Indiana University School of Medicine
BA – Franklin & Marshall College
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
Fellow, American College of Surgeons
Palm Beach County Society of Plastic Surgeons
Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons
Southeastern Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons
Past Chief, Department of Plastic Surgery, Good Samaritan Hospital
Past President, American Cancer Society, Palm Beach County
Guide to America's Top Surgeons – 2002, 2003, 2004, 2010, 2011
Miami Metro Magazine – The Best Doctors in Florida – Chosen by Physicians, 1998-99
Doctors Across America – Top Doctors – Plastic Surgery, 2002
America's Top Plastic Surgeons – Consumer's Research Council of America
2010 Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
South Florida Super Doctors – City and Shore Magazine, 2011


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11 airplanes were hit by laser beams over New Jersey last night
By NYMag
Airline pilots flying over New Jersey last night got an unwelcome surprise: green laser-beam blasts from thousands of feet below. A total of 11 airplanes were hit flying over the state, according to the FAA. The incidents allegedly took place between about 9 and a little after 10:30 p.m., with at least three aircraft targetted near Newark, forcing air-traffic control to reroute the planes' approaches into the airport. Other commercial jets were hit near the Outerbridge Crossing, another in Ocean City on the shore, and one near the Pennsylvania border.
The FAA is investigating all the reports, which seemed to be pretty equally distributed across the carriers. No pilots reported any injuries, but laser pointers can be especially dangerous, as they can temporarily blind pilots. Laser-beam attacks on planes have been on the rise, up 1,100 percent since the FBI started keeping track in 2005. In 2013, the FBI estimated there were 11 laser attacks per day on commercial airlines — but 11 in one night from one state, even if it is New Jersey, is particularly alarming.CBS NY
Are you a frequent flyer? You'll want to avoid these airports:
See Gallery
Learn more about the dangers of lasers at airplane:
More from NYMag:
Squirrel with questionable level of sobriety terrorizes private English club
Authorities find dead sparrow in El Chapo's trash can
Republicans probably won't back Iran deal, would still like to be wooed


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RYE, NY (WCBS 880) – They're changing the street signs in the city of Rye to abide by a federal mandate.
WCBS 880's Catherine Cioffi with Rye City Councilman Joe Sack
So, what are they doing with the old ones? Well, they're selling them for $20 each, of course.
"We're trying to take lemon to make lemonade. Faced with this mandate, what we've done is we've given our residents a chance to buy a sentimental piece of Rye and people have loved it. They've really responded," says Rye city councilman Joe Sack. "We've really captured lightning in a bottle here."
Sack says he came up with the idea. He says it's a great way for the city to make a few thousand dollars and for residents to have their very own piece of Rye.
LINK: Official Information On Buying A Street Sign
He says they've only replaced about a third of the signs so far, so they will have plenty more to sell.
"Every penny counts, but the focus is not making money. The focus is really drawing attention to the unfunded mandate and then also giving people a nice way to own a piece of Rye," says Sack.
Many cities, including New York City, are being required to switch signs from all capital letters to mixed upper and lower case letters.


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Reaching the Nations Among Us: Part 3 The Seven Fatal Errors of Ethnic Ministry: Error #1 – Lack of UnitySunday, March 8, 2009
Many conflicts between a host and immigrant church are the result of unfulfilled expectations. Unfulfilled because they were not expressed and written down prior to launching the immigrant ministry.
Here is a three step process I use to create a spirit of unity. It takes me an average of eight months to walk a church through the first two steps.
1. SOW the Vision. Helping people take ownership of a vision cannot be done in one 45-minute presentation. People need time to process the vision.
· The Pastor. The pastor is the key person. Nothing will be accomplished without the pastor's full support.
· The Leadership. The leadership needs to work through the issues and ask all of the questions necessary before moving ahead. Only then can they confidently respond to questions from the congregation.
· The Congregation. The congregation should receive the same information that the pastor and the leadership received. They are the ones that will have to give up exclusive use of facilities, worship styles, and leadership positions to reach all levels of assimilation within an immigrant group.
2. SURVEY the Body.
· Determine your acceptable losses. The leadership should determine the number of families or individuals they are willing to loose in order to implement an ethnic ministry. Whether you change your style of worship music, name, or drop Sunday school for small groups, there are always some who will leave the church. It's no different with starting an immigrant ministry.
· Conduct an informal survey. Following the Vision Casting to the congregation (I recommend a series of messages) divide the families of the church among the leadership and ask them what they think about the possibility of starting an ethnic ministry. This casual survey will help you get some idea if you are within the range of acceptable losses. If not, go back to casting the vision. Consider some of the negative feedback received from the casual survey. Address these concerns from a biblical perspective. Remember we are not asking for permission, we are preparing the hearts of our people for transition.
· Conduct a formal survey. Proceed with this step if the informal survey is positive. The purpose is to solicit the opinions, concerns and fears of the people so they can be addressed at an announced congregational meeting for this purpose.
3. SECURE a Covenant.
A covenant outlines the commitments the church is wiling to make to launch an immigrant ministry.
· Facility Use. The usage of rooms, days, and times for regular services and a process for requesting usage for special events and activities. Rooms are no longer for the exclusive use of any one person or ministry.
· Equipment Use. The usage of audio/visual equipment for regular services and a process for requesting usage for special events and activities.
· Chain of Command.
o Ministry Leaders: Children's, Youth, Audio-Video, Greeters, Ushers, etc… should provide training for counter parts in the immigrant church for continuity across language ministries regarding church policies, practices, and care of facilities and equipment.
o The Immigrant Pastor and congregation must be aware of the church's process and protocol for dealing with issues.
· Finances. Since the immigrant ministry is part of the local church then all offerings go into the church treasury. The church should create a line item(s) to cover the expenses of the immigrant ministry. This should include, as soon as possible, the immigrant pastor's compensation package.
That's my opinion. I welcome yours.


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Sometimes when I describe a place on this blog I can sound quite pompous. It's true, I'm reminiscent of a young Charles Dickens… See, I've done it again. I shouldn't use words like reminiscent, and I certainly shouldn't compare myself to Charles Dickens. Anyway, from what we'd heard about Valparaiso, this blog seemed likely to come across rather grandiose.
We'd heard that Valparaiso is unique, beautiful and that it offers opportunities to write stuff like 'the waves rush rapidly over golden sands quite unexpected from small time seaside towns such as this Chilean gem'. God I couldn't wait to get there and start writing. Read the rest of this entry


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Anyone who has owned an iPod or other MP3 player knows the discomfort that can be caused by stock earbuds. In fact, fit is one of the chief reasons to replace those 'buds with something more worthy of your ears. In the realm of comfort, we've come across few pairs of in-ear headphones that hit the nail as squarely as Maximo's iMetal iM-590 Isolation Earphones. This $60 set may not sound as good as some competitors in its price range, but the superior noise isolation and ultra cushy fit make it a solid option for frequent fliers with a penchant for comfort in a compact design.
Maximo knows a little something about comfortable design, as evidenced by the company's iM-490S earphones. In the case of the iMetal iM-590, we attribute the cushy fit to two factors. First, the earpieces are elongated to fit deeper into the ear, rather than short and squat as with the Ultimate Ears MetroFi 170. Also, the silicone eartips are double- and triple-flanged, which means no part of the metal earbud rubs against the ear; rather, it's completely covered by the soft silicone barrier. Beyond fit, the iM-590s offer a fair amount of style with their chrome accents and cloth-covered cable.
With the iM-590 earphones, Maximo includes a nice array of accessories. There's a nice, hard-shelled carrying case with a cable manager and pouch built into the interior, as well as three sets of flanged eartips. You also get a dual-pronged airplane adapter, a 2.5mm plug connector (for use with some cell phones), and a removable shirt clip. If the 4-foot cord isn't long enough for you, there's an additional 24 inches in the form of an extender cable. A slider at the Y-junction of the main cord helps prevent tangles when the earphones are not in use. One thing that is missing is a mic/call answer button for taking calls on your music phone, so don't get these for that purpose.
During testing, we pitted the Maximo iMetal iM-590 earphones against the similarly priced Ultimate Ears MetroFi 170. The iM-590's bass response was notably mushier than that of the MetroFi, which tended to make music sound more muffled overall. The clarity and high-end detail representation from the MetroFi was also better than that offered by the Maximo set. However, we preferred the warmth of the iMetal earphones to the brightness of the UE model. Also, the features and comfort of the iM-590 have the MetroFi in spades. And because the iMetal 'phones fit us better, we found the noise isolation to be superior. All in all, the iMetal iM-590 earphones provide decent sound quality over a variety of genres, and we can recommend them as a huge improvement in comfort over the stock set that came with your MP3 player.