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I promised I would share the method for making Calum's birthday Camo Cupcakes and so here we are.
They are really straightforward to make, not too time consuming at all, but don't tell that to whoever you are baking these for!
For the food colouring it is best to use the pastes rather than the liquids as this won't affect the consistency of your cake mix.
You will need:
{for the cupcakes}
10oz dairy free margarine
10oz Doves Farm Gluten Free Self Raising Flour
10oz sugar
4 eggs
1-2tbsp soya milk
green & black food colouring
a few tablespoons cocoa
{for the icing}
1lb icing sugar
5oz dairy free margarine
a little splash of soya milk
green & black food colouring
a tablespoon of cocoa
~ Put the margarine, flour, sugar and eggs into your mixer and beat well until everything has mixed together and looks creamy. Then add the soya milk and beat a little more.
~Divide the mixture as evenly as you can into three bowls.
~Colour one bowl green, another black and add enough cocoa to the third to get a nice brown colour.
I must admit to having a slight 'blonde' moment when I was looking out my food colourings to make these. I looked through the colours I had and thought to myself, if only I had brown colouring to make the third colour. Thankfully it didn't take too long to dawn on me that all chocolate cakes have the perfect colour that I needed and without any food colouring!
~Now all you need to do is put a splodge of each colour into your cupcake cases. There is no fancy way of doing this and no need to mix the colours together at all. Just try not to have the colours right on top of each other or you will end up with just layers rather than the swirl of camo.
~Bake at 180C for around 20 minutes. Timing is a little more important for these as normally I would just go by the colour on the top of a cupcake to see if they are ready. Not so easy when the cakes are black on top! James (14) came through when I took them out of the oven and thought that I had burnt them!
~While they cool you can crack on with the icing.
~Put the icing sugar and margarine into your mixer and beat until they come together. You might need to add a splash or two of soya milk to help them come together. Once it looks nice and smooth, again separate into three bowls and colour each one as before.
~Using disposable piping bags, fill three separate bags with each colour. Then take a fourth bag, with a nozzle attached and slot the three different coloured bags into this one. To help with this, try and get your coloured bags nice and thin by squeezing the icing evenly as far to the top as you can, while still leaving squeezing room at the top for when it's time to ice.
~Swirl the triple coloured icing onto your cooled cupcakes.
~Bask in the admiration of the cakes' recipients who now think that you have spent far longer concocting these than you really did and that you are something of a culinary genius!


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Product Highlights
The LomoKinoScope Movie Viewer from Lomography is a device for viewing your LomoKino movies once they have been captured using the LomoKino Movie Maker or LomoKino Smartphone Holder, and then developed. It allows you to watch your movie without having to scan or edit using a computer. Offering a purely analogue experience, the LomoKinoScope works like a mini projector - Hold it towards a light source and look into the eyepiece, then simply wind the crank to watch the frames of your movie whizz by in quick succession.
The LomoKinoScope allows you to watch your developed LomoKino movies in the most analogue way possible. Firstly, to watch your LomoKino movies you'll have to ensure that your film remains un-cut from the developer. This is because the LomoKinoScope needs the entire roll of film in order to load. But if you do cut your negatives, don't worry, you can always scan and edit them using software on your computer.
Another important thing to bear in mind when using the LomoKinoScope is that it works best when loaded with color slide film developed regularly in E6 chemicals. This is because during film development you'll get 'positives' rather than 'negatives' back from the lab, and when you view positive film through the LomoKinoScope all of the colors will appear as they should - rather than being inverted as with negatives. Regardless, loading the LomoKinoScope with a negative strip is a great way of 'previewing' your movie before you scan and edit it on your computer.
Digitize your LomoKino movies with ease by purchasing the LomoKino Smartphone Holder (sold separately) in order to record analog films and share them with friends. It allows you to record cinematic works with your smartphone by simply attaching the LomoKino Smart Phone Holder to your LomoKinoscope, connecting it to your smart phone, and recording as you turn the crank. With this device, you can bridge the gap between your love for analog and this new digital world.
Note: If you notice something unusual when viewing, stop immediately, take out the film and load it again following the above procedure. This will ensure that your film isn't accidentally damaged.
|Packaging Info
|Package Weight
|0.35 lb
|Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
|3.9 x 3.1 x 2.9"

subset: commoncrawl


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St. Louis Woman Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison on Federal Sex Trafficking Charge
WASHINGTON – A federal judge today sentenced Waquita Wallace to 20 years in prison and five years of supervised release for a federal civil rights charge of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion for compelling a young St. Louis woman to commit acts of prostitution, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Loretta King for the Civil Rights Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Michael W. Reap for the Eastern District of Missouri.
U.S. District Court Judge Carol E. Jackson sentenced Wallace, who had previously pleaded guilty and is the last of three defendants in this case to be sentenced on sex trafficking related charges. April Chaney and Richard Harper were previously sentenced to 60 months and 27 months in prison respectively for their roles in this crime.
"Sex trafficking violates individuals' basic human rights, stripping them of their dignity and freedom," Acting Assistant Attorney General King said. "The damage done to the victim in this case cannot be reversed, but I applaud the investigators and attorneys who brought these defendants to justice and it should send a message that we will continue to vigorously enforce our nation's civil rights laws."
In announcing the plea, Acting Assistant Attorney General King, and Acting U.S. Attorney Reap commended the FBI and the St. Louis Metro Police Department for their work in this cooperative investigation and prosecution. Assistant U.S. Attorney Howard Marcus and Trial Attorney Jim Felte of the Civil Rights Division's Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit prosecuted this case for the government.


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One more spring sneak peek for you! I had such fun coloring this! And the Tiny Flower "Pretty Little Papers" go perfectly with the new Little Chick, so I couldn't resist using them! (The orange tiny flower PLP that I used here is in the "Summer" pack but the colors in the "Tropic" pack would work great too!)
Images, notecards, PLP, black dye ink, and ribbon by A Muse. Copic markers in Lemon Yellow, Golden Yellow, Frost Blue, 0, Celadon Green, and Apricot.


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Scenario 1: Jack, who was born in Poland and came to the U.S. as a student, has just become a U.S. Citizen. He would like to bring his parents and little brothers, who are both under 21, to the U.S. so that they can live in the U.S. near him.
Key Points
1.U.S. Citizens can sponsor their spouse, parents, children and brothers or sisters for a U.S. Green Card by filing the Form I-130.
2.The Family Based Immigrant Visa process is initiated by filing the Form I-130 within the U.S., or in some cases, outside the U.S.
3.The Form I-130 is also used by Green Card holders to sponsor their spouse and children.
Scenario 2: Jack's old classmate Stephanie is also a U.S. Citizen. She is currently living and working in Italy, where she was born and where her parents live. She is expecting to return home to the U.S. in the next 6-12 months and would like to bring her parents back with her.
Scenario 3: Jack's other friend, Juan, is also in the process of naturalizing to become a U.S. Citizen.
He lives with his wife who is a foreign national. She came to the U.S. as a visitor but overstayed her visa.
Can Jack, Stephanie and Juan help their family members gain permanent residence? What's the process?
Let us look at Jack's situation first.
Among the rights and privileges of being a Legal Permanent Resident(LPR) or U.S. Citizen is the ability to sponsor family members so that they can also become legal permanent residents of the U.S. The Form I-130, Immigrant Petition for Alien Relative, is the most often used method by foreign national relatives of U.S. Citizens and Green Card holders to come to the U.S. to live permanently.
The I-130 Process: An Introduction
There are generally 2 steps in the I-130 process. The first step is the Form I-130, which establishes the familial relationship. The second step is for the foreign national relative to apply for an immigrant visa or permanent resident status on the basis of the approved I-130 petition.
In this article, we will focus only on Jack's situation – Jack filing the Form I-130 at USCIS inside the United States and Jack's parents and brothers applying for an immigrant visa at a U.S. Consulate abroad.
Step 1: Filing The Form I-130 At USCIS
1.Determine Eligibility
The first step in filing the Form I-130 is to determine the foreign national's eligibility to have a Form I-130 filed on their behalf. There are two main categories of relatives that are eligible to be beneficiaries for the Form I-130– Immediate Relative of U.S. Citizens and Other Relatives of U.S. Citizens and Relatives of Legal Permanent Residents.
a.Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizen
Immediate relatives of U.S. Citizens include their spouse, unmarried children under 21 and parents. Unlike most other Green Card applicants, these individuals are not subject to any quotas, making them immediately eligible for an immigrant visa number upon approval of the I-130.
Note: In the case of immediate relatives, the U.S. Citizen must file a separate I-130 for each relative. This means that if the U.S. Citizen has a wife and 2 children abroad, he must file a separate I-130 for each individual. Also, a U.S. Citizen would have to file two separate I-130's for each parent.
b.Other Relatives of U.S. Citizens and Relatives of Legal Permanent Residents
Other relatives of U.S. Citizens who may be sponsored are unmarried sons and daughters over the age of 21 (F1), married sons and daughters over the age of 21 (F3) and siblings (F4).
The relatives of legal permanent residents who may be sponsored include the spouse and unmarried children under 21 (F2A) and unmarried sons and daughters over the age of 21 (F2B).
Note: In the case of the relatives in this second broad category, accompanying family members (spouse and/or unmarried children under 21) may be able to join the main beneficiary in coming to the U.S. without a separate petition. For example, if a U.S. Citizen was filing for his unmarried 24 year old daughter who had a 2 year old son, the child would be able to accompany his mother to the U.S. as a "derivative beneficiary." This is true for all cases in this second category except the spouse of legal permanent residents.
Unlike the Immediate Relatives of a U.S. Citizen, Other Relatives of U.S. Citizens and Relatives of Legal Permanent Residents categories are subject to statutory quotas and only a certain number of people are eligible for an immigrant visa number each fiscal year under these categories. Each category of individuals described here has its own quota which is then subdivided by country. Because so many people apply in these categories, the quotas get over-used or "over-subscribed," meaning a backlog results. Individuals in these categories can be waiting for one or two years or up to 20 years to get an immigrant visa, depending on the category they fall into.
In Jack's case, his parents will qualify as Immediate Relatives of a U.S. Citizen, while his two brothers, both being under 21 years of age, will qualify under the F4 category as Other Relatives of a U.S. Citizen.
2.Collect Documents
The main focus of the I-130 petition process is to document the relationship. In most cases, as in the case of parents and children, a birth certificate or secondary evidence of parentage will suffice. The same goes for the siblings of U.S. Citizens, who will each have to provide a birth certificate to show that they share at least one parent. In the case of spouses, additional evidence will need to be submitted to document not only that the marriage is legal (i.e., a marriage certificate) but also evidence that the marriage is bona fide (i.e., evidence that the marriage was not entered into for the sole purpose of gaining immigration benefits).
3.File the I-130 at the Correct Lockbox or other USCIS facility
Generally, the U.S. Citizen or legal permanent resident filing for his/her family member must file the I-130 petition with any required and supporting documents and the filing fee with the USCIS Chicago or Phoenix lockbox, depending on where the U.S. relative resides.
Note: In the case of a U.S. Citizen or legal permanent resident filing for his or her spouse, the Form I-130 must be accompanied by a Form G-325A, Biographic Information for both the U.S. spouse and the foreign national spouse.
My Case Scenario
Louis, a U.S. Citizen, just got married to his fiancée, Frances, who is a French national. She is currently in France and Louis has begun the paperwork for her to obtain legal permanent residence. Frances has a young daughter, Maria, and she wants to bring Maria with her to the U.S. Will Frances have to file an I-130 after she becomes a Green Card holder?
No, Frances will not have to wait until she becomes a Green Card holder to file an I-130. Now that Louis and Frances are married, Maria is Louis' step-daughter and he can file an I-130 immediate relative petition on her behalf directly as long as the marriage between Louis and Frances took place before Maria's eighteenth birthday. Under the I-130 rules, step-children in this scenario and natural children are treated the same. This means that Maria will be able to accompany her mother to join her step-father in the U.S. very soon
Step 2: The NVC Process
Once the I-130 petition is approved, USCIS sends the petition to the Department of State's National Visa Center (NVC), which will process the immigrant visa application and schedule the foreign national relative's consular interview appointment. For cases filed on behalf of the Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens, the NVC will immediately begin to process the immigrant visa applications. For all other I-130 petitions, NVC will only process applications where the priority date is going to become current. To know more about priority dates, please click here.
In some cases, especially those involving an emergency or an age-out issue, the NVC may elect to immediately forward the case to the Consulate to speed up processing. In cases like this, it is important to notify the NVC as soon as possible so that they can take the appropriate steps.
The processing at NVC involves various steps:
1.Contact Information and Choice of Agent
Upon receipt of the application by the NVC, the NVC will contact both the U.S. relative and the foreign national relative and confirm the contact information for each individual. The NVC will allow the immigrant visa applicant, the foreign national relative, to appoint an "agent" and or address to receive correspondence by using the DS-261, the Online Choice of Address and Agent form.
2.Fee Invoices
The NVC will then send the Immigrant Visa Application Processing Fee Invoice to the visa applicant, the agent or the attorney, and the Affidavit of Support Fee Invoice to the U.S. relative petitioner. Upon NVC's receipt of the fees, which should be paid online, fee receipts and a cover page will be generated. The cover page MUST accompany all correspondences with the NVC.
3.Affidavit of Support
Upon receipt of the fees, the NVC will instruct the U.S. relative to establish the ability to financially support the foreign relative, and if applicable, their accompanying family members by filling in Form I-864 and submitting the appropriate supporting documents. If the petitioner is unable to support the relative financially, financial support can also be shown by showing the financial resources of other individuals in the household, through a co-sponsor or, in some instances, the assets of the foreign relative applicant. For more information on the Affidavit of Support, please click here.
4.Immigrant Visa Forms and Required Documents
The foreign national relative and each accompanying family member must fill out Form DS-260, the Immigrant Electronic Visa Application. The DS-260 is filled in and submitted online. Each applicant is also required to submit certain civil documents. These include birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce certificates, and any other documents depending on the type of relationship the application is based on. Each applicant over the age of 16 must also submit police clearance certificates.
The Civil Documents and the Affidavit of Support must be submitted, in the original, to the NVC. This includes original civil documents.
Note: A select number of U.S. Consulates are currently testing the electronic submission of documents through the NVC. For appointments at these consulates, scanned copies of the civil documents are sent to NVC via email and then original documents are simply brought to the interview. DO NOT SCAN AND EMAIL THE NVC ANY REQUIRED DOCUMENTS UNLESS SPECIFICALLY INSTRUCTED TO DO SO BY THE NVC.
5.Interview Scheduling
Upon receipt of all the required fees, forms and documents, NVC will proceed to schedule the immigrant visa appointment at the appropriate U.S. Consulate or Embassy for all visa applicants. Once the interview is scheduled, the NVC will notify both the U.S. relative or agent and the foreign national applicant of the visa appointment scheduling and of any additional documents that must be taken to the interview. The NVC will also forward the entire Immigrant Visa Packet, containing all the forms and supporting documents, for each applicant to the U.S. Consulate.
Step 3: The Immigrant Visa Interview
In the majority of cases, as the NVC has already collected all the documents and required forms, there are only a few things each immigrant visa applicant has to do before the interview.
1.The Medical Exam
Each immigrant visa applicant must undergo a medical examination by an authorized physician to determine if he or she has all the required vaccinations and to determine whether or not the applicant has any communicable diseases or other health problems that would make them inadmissible to the U.S. Usually, the physician forwards the medical examination directly to the U.S. Consulate.
2.The interview
For most visa applicants, the visa interview is the most nerve-wracking part of the entire process. In the case of most relative petitions, the interview is primarily to verify the authenticity of the documents submitted and to make sure that the applicant is eligible to become a legal permanent resident.
In cases where the application is based on marriage, the consular officer will also ask questions to ascertain whether or not the marriage is actually bona fide, or real. This is especially true in cases where the marriage is relatively short in duration or where there has been a long separation, physically, between the spouses.
Applicants must bring with them their passport and any other documents requested by the NVC or the Consulate directly. Please note that each U.S. Consulate has different rules and some consulates request that all applicants bring additional documents or application forms. Follow the directions that the U.S. Consulate or NVC gives regarding each particular U.S. Consulate.
Note 1: In most cases, the U.S. relative petitioner will not be allowed at the interview. Exceptions may be made in the case of minor children who are allowed to have an adult accompany them to an interview, the elderly, or for disabled applicants.
Note 2: Applicants should bring with them evidence that the relationship between the U.S. relative and the applicant has been maintained. This is especially true of spouses of U.S. relatives.
It is very important that each visa applicant be thoroughly prepared for the interview. The applicant should review a copy of all the application forms that have been submitted.
3.The Immigrant Visa Packet
Upon approval of the immigrant visa, each applicant will receive their passport with the "immigrant visa" stamped in it. The stamp, called the I-551 stamp, is proof that the applicant has been approved to become a legal permanent resident upon entry to the U.S. The applicant will also receive a sealed package that contains all the original documents submitted to the consulate. DO NOT OPEN THE PACKAGE. This package must only be opened by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer at the U.S. port of entry. If opened, the applicant must contact the U.S. Consulate immediately so they can advise on what to do.
4.Pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee
Once the immigrant visa is approved but BEFORE leaving for the U.S., each applicant must pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee. Payment must be made online through USCIS ELIS. While non-payment of this fee will not affect the application or legal permanent resident status, the actual Green Card will not be produced until and unless this fee is paid.
During the interview, it is important to dress in a presentable fashion that shows that the applicant has respect for the consular officer and the process. Dressing in local or traditional garb is acceptable.DO NOT WEAR jeans, torn/ripped clothing (even if it is fashionable), clothing with objectionable words or pictures, or other inappropriate clothing. The first impression you make on an officer will affect how the officer will conduct the interview.
Step 4: Arriving in the U.S.
1.Enter the U.S.
With passport and sealed package in hand, each applicant must generally enter the U.S. within six months of the visa stamp, although the visa stamp is generally good for one year. Furthermore, children who are aging-out because they are turning 21 must enter the U.S. before they turn 21. The primary visa applicant must enter first or the family members must enter at the same time as the primary visa applicant.
Upon entry, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officer will open and inspect the sealed package and the I-551 stamp. He or she may ask additional questions regarding where the applicant will be staying and the reason for the application. The CBP officer will then place a rubber stamp in the passport that has the date of entry next to the I-551 stamp and write in the Alien Number (A-Number). This stamp evidences that the applicant has entered the U.S. as a Legal Permanent Resident. Until the Green Card is received in the mail, the I-551 stamp together with the CBP stamp is proof of legal status in the U.S.
2.The Green Card
Customarily, the Green Card arrives within a few weeks of the applicant's entry into the U.S. The Green Card is sent to the address provided on the DS-230. If the Green Card does not arrive within 3-4 weeks of arrival, it is best to contact USCIS to see if the Green Card has been returned as undeliverable. The U.S. Postal Service will not forward the Green Card if the mail-to address has changed.
Note: The applicant may also receive his or her social security card in the mail if he or she selected that option on the DS230. If the option to automatically have a social security card generated was not selected or if several weeks have passed and the applicant has not received the card, the applicant must contact the local Social Security Office.
If the Green Card is lost/doesn't arrive and a replacement must be ordered, then the new legal permanent resident may use the passport with the I-551 stamp and entry stamp as proof of status and employment authorization. The I-551 stamp may also be used for travel and re-entry up until the visa expires. If the visa expires and the physical Green Card has still not been issued, the new LPR may make an InfoPass appointment at a local USCIS office to obtain another I-551 stamp so that he or she can travel.
3.Establish Ties
Obtaining Legal Permanent Residency is a privilege, not a right. Upon gaining legal permanent resident status, the foreign national relative should seek to establish their home in the U.S. Further, they should become familiar with how they can lose their legal permanent resident status. To learnmore about how to maintain legal permanent resident status, click here.
4.Removal of Conditions
Spouses of U.S. Citizens or legal permanent residents who obtain immigrant visas through the I-130 process are given "conditional resident" status if their marriage was less than 2 years old on the date of the issuance of permanent residence (the date they entered the U.S.). The same is also true for step-children of the U.S. Citizen or legal permanent resident. These individuals receive a Green Card that is only valid for 2 years. In the 90 days preceding the expiration of the Green Card, these individuals must apply to "Remove the Conditions." To learn more about Removal of Conditions please click here.
5.Naturalization and U.S. Citizenship
Most LPR's can apply for U.S. Citizenship after 5 years. Those married to U.S. Citizens can apply after only 3 years. For more information on how to become a naturalized U.S. Citizen, please click here.
Jack, as a U.S. Citizen, can petition for his parents and little brothers to become legal permanent residents. He also found out that because his parents are "immediate relatives", they can be in the U.S. in less than a year. However, although he could sponsor his brothers, they are not considered immediate relatives and it may take up to 10 years for them to join him. Luckily, Jack learned that as soon as his parents enter the U.S. and become legal permanent residents, they can also file applications for their sons. As Jack's two brothers are under 21, it may only take 1-2 years for them to join the family. Jack immediately went about collecting the right documents and preparing the I-130 petitions for his mother, father and siblings.
As for Stephanie, who lives abroad, and Juan, whose wife is already in the U.S., stay tuned to our next Article to see how the I-130 Process plays out for them.
The Form I-130, Immigrant Petition for Alien Relative is the most often used method by foreign national relatives of U.S. Citizens and Green Card holders, to come to the U.S. to live permanently. While many can be reunited with their U.S. relatives in a matter of months, the process can be quite complicated and can actually keep families separated for very long if the right steps are not taken.
VisaPro attorneys successfully help U.S. Citizens, Green Card holders, and their foreign national relatives through the I-130 and immigrant visa process.
Contact VisaPro if you are a U.S. Citizen or Green Card holder, intending to bring your family to the U.S. Our experienced attorneys will be happy to assist you.
What VisaPro Customers Are Saying
I would have no hesitation recommending Visapro. They dealt with my case professionally and I appreciated the way they made themselves available over the phone when I needed clarification or to ask a question………. I am very happy I chose them to manage my visa application and grateful for their support right through to successfully acquiring my Green Card."


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DVD Architect Pro Software Free Download
DVD Architect Pro 5.2.132 | 196MB:=============================
Sony DVD Architect Pro - provides a rich set of creative design DVD menus and DVD-authoring. This program is a professional level, which can operate as a logical complement of Sony Vegas and as a standalone application. The new version of DVD Architect Pro will work in standard definition (DVD recording drives), and in high definition (read Blu-Ray discs), while retaining the possibility of using animated buttons and menus, scene selection menus, subtitles, and the ability to edit video and audio MPEG-2 or AVCHD formats.
Sure, it's well-known competitor utility Sonic Scenarist, and at the same time with an easy and intuitive interface, inherent in the entire line of products from Sonic Foundry / Sony. Application has its own codecs for MPEG and AC3 and can be used as a source, a variety of media formats.
Some possibilities:
• ability to record Blu-Ray discs;
• Support for full screen preview;
• MPEG-2 and AVCHD video;
• support AC3 and PCM audio with HD;
• the ability to create. Iso files and burn to DVD or Blu-Ray discs
Sony DVD Architect - software for professional DVD authoring. DVD Architect Pro software has everything you need to create and burn professional DVDs and Blu-ray Disc projects on your computer. You'll be creating picture slideshows, single-movie discs, music / video compilations, and menu-based discs on your computer in no time! DVD Architect software works seamlessly within the Vegas environment.
• Burning to Blu-ray Disc
• Full-screen previewing to secondary Windows display
• Support for opening MPEG-2 and AVCHD video files
• Support for using AC3 and PCM audio with HD video
• Support for creating. Iso files and burning to DVD or Blu-ray Disc


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Monday, July 30, 2012
ARC Review: Skylark by Meagan Spooner
Release Date: August 1st/12
Publisher: Carolrhoda Lab
Source: ARC won from author
Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads:
Sixteen year-old Lark Ainsley has never seen the sky.
Her world ends at the edge of the vast domed barrier of energy enclosing all that's left of humanity. For two hundred years the city has sustained this barrier by harvesting its children's innate magical energy when they reach adolescence. When it's Lark's turn to be harvested, she finds herself trapped in a nightmarish web of experiments and learns she is something out of legend itself: a Renewable, able to regenerate her own power after it's been stripped.
Forced to flee the only home she knows to avoid life as a human battery, Lark must fight her way through the terrible wilderness beyond the edge of the world. With the city's clockwork creations close on her heels and a strange wild boy stalking her in the countryside, she must move quickly if she is to have any hope of survival. She's heard the stories that somewhere to the west are others like her, hidden in secret – but can she stay alive long enough to find them?
My Thoughts:
This book was a complete mystery to me. Upon winning an ARC I wasn't aware of much of the plot and the cover threw me a little- seemed a bit SciFi. But once I started reading, I was sucked in, I honestly just couldn't stop.
There were so many things I loved about Skylark: the mystery, the adventure, THE ROMANCE (always a favourite :)). Skylark starts off as a "Dud" or an unharvested freak, struggling to find herself in a society that clearly has no place for her. But then her day comes when her "Resource" is ready to be harvested, this is what she's been waiting for her whole life, it's everything she wanted- or is it? Suddenly Lark is being locked away and fed on strict schedules behind the Wall, while the "Machine" continues to suck her Resource dry. Her only companion behind the Wall is Kris, but can she truly trust him?
All this comes together within the beginning of the book! The adventure and intrigue lasts throughout. As Lark runs for her life, literally she becomes acquainted with Oren, a mysterious young man surviving out in the wild. Romance blossoms as these two travel through the wild together. I really liked Oren and was rooting for him (but this could very well have to do with the fact that his name is close to Oreo haha). But don't rule out Kris just yet! I think Spooner has much more in store for him, I hope.
Skylark is an action-packed YA read, that will have you questioning everyone's motives and leave in awe of the atmosphere/world that Spooner has penned. The romance was sweet and the ending left an opening for further development and much more adventure in book 2. I'm very eagerly awaiting the next installment.
I'm recommending Skylark to all those who enjoy YA because it has a perfect mixture of all the typical elements- Adventure, Love triangle, Mystery, Dystopian society, I really could go on, but I think you get the point. I'm so glad I won this book- Thank you Meagan!!!
Go out and it grab a copy- it releases TOMORROW!!! :
Happy Reading!!!
Posted by HayleyAG at 2:32 AM
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India today launched four world class Broadband products by C-DOT. With this India has become at par with all other developed countries in the world in respect of quality telecommunication services and effective penetration of advanced broadband based services. Union Minister for Communication and IT, Ravi Shankar Prasad while launching the new products indigenously developed by C-DOT today stated that the NDA Government is committed to bring all 2.5 lakh villages under broadband services and enhance internet penetration from 300 million to 500 million within 2 and half years.
Shri Prasad launched the products in the presence of his Kenyan counterpart, Cabinet Secretary, ICT in a function organized at C-DOT Campus, New Delhi. Shri Prasad further stated that the new products have been launched with an aim to provide an advanced digital infrastructure for digital India Initiative launched by the PM Shri Narendra Modi earlier this week. He further stated that Digital India initiative is bound to bring governance available in the palm of every Indian. It is more for the poor, underprivileged and the marginal people like masons and carpenters etc. In fact, Digital India is a transformational programme and a dream to bring a positive change. The initiative would also go a long way in digital empowerment of the people of India. The initiative launched by the Prime Minister would make India developed, globally credible, affluent and would further synch with Make in India and Skill India programme. Shri Prasad while elaborating the importance of skill development stated that there are ample opportunities of earning in mobile maintenance profession as the number of mobile sets are surging day by day.
Shri Prasad appreciated the role of C-DOT in transforming the telecommunication scenario in the country, especially in the rural India. C-DOT has to render significant contribution in providing broadband coverage across the nation. He also appreciated the products developed by the C-DOT and stated that the long distance Wi Fi is going to solve the problem of distance, whereas Solar powered Wi Fi would do away the dependence on the power availability. Shri Prasad stated that the Next Generation Network technology is quite important for the service providers for converging landline/ mobile/ data network. The MTNL and the BSNL are going to be benefitted as they would be able to transform their landline network into the most advanced network. He called upon C-DOT to come out with more advanced innovative products in order to ensure foolproof telecom services apart from lending a hand in ensuring digital literacy across the country in respective local languages. The Union Minister further stated that digital connectivity leads to good governance. Shri Prasad also stated that the C-DOT products are great innovative and dependable but I would be happier if the products are savvy and are used by more people. He exhorted the private sector to go for C-DOT products on large scale as these have been developed after a sustained research and analysis for which the Government invested a substantial amount keeping in view the need to match with the fast changing world.
Kenyan Cabinet Secretary, ICT, Dr.Fred Marang'I Okengo stated that his country has been following Digital India very closely. The launch of the new C-DOT products has testified the audacity of the ongoing innovative programs. He stressed the need of focus on the IT jointly by both the countries. The visiting dignitary stated that our country is keen to pursue the capacity building and is committed to expand the innovative programs with constructive cooperation. He described the ICT initiatives as game changers in making the lives of the people purposeful and comfortable. While appreciating the broadband network developed by the C-DOT he stated that it would go a long way in unlocking the potentials of our people in transforming the country. He also stressed upon the M Money and M Paisa programs which enable transparent and fast transfers. He described his country as an ICT hub and a gateway to Africa. The visiting dignitary assured a broader, detailed, effective collaboration in the field of communication and IT. He expressed his keenness in transfer of new C-DOT products to his country and sought assistance of India to find out feasible ways so that these could be launched in Kenya.
On this occasion, the Telecom secretary Shri Rakesh Garg, in his key note address expressed hope that the private sector would pick the C Dot products. He added that the new products have been tested prior to their launch. He called upon the C Dot to design the products that suits Indian requirements and conditions. The next generation land line network would not only revolutionize the basic telephony but would upgrade the entire landline services. He added that presently all gram panchayats are connected with broadband, the government is committed to connect all gram panchayats in the country with broadband.
Our efforts are in the way of taking dream of Digital India further, said Shri Vipin Tyagi, Executive Director, C-DOT while delivering his welcome address. He also stated that the C-DOT has been innovating with an aim to empower the weaker strata of the society and developing indigenous products to facilitate continuous telecom up-gradation. He said that technology is big enabler and broadband is big leveler. Roti, Kapda, Makan and Broadband are the basic needs of the human being.
Two Wi-Fi products launched by C-DOT viz. Long Distance Wi-Fi and Solar powered Wi-Fi address the connectivity problem of rural areas, hilly terrain, highways, dense vegetation, tunnels etc. They are also suited for greenfield projects like smart cities, areas where there is little/no grid supply, emergency situations, Disaster Management Networks etc. C-DOT has also developed a light weight Green Power Source to make the solution self-sustainable. Using this solution, reach of BharatNet can be increased beyond Panchayats to the remotest part of country.
100 Gbps OFC link system called "Suteevra" addresses the telco's requirement of optimizing communication transport backbone in smart cities, IT parks, Industrial Complexes, Inter City Traffic, Data Centres etc. It offers ease of deployment, lesser shell space & lower power consumption, and saves on the high cost of laying fiber for each individual user. Further, SUTEEVRA is capable of serving multiple applications and protocols ranging from the Data, Storage, TDM and Video networks.
C-DOT NGN in MTNL network is advanced IP based network which is designed to replace existing TDM network due to ease in introduction of newer services. NGN provides a centralized remote control to the operators to manage the exchanges thereby providing better services to the end subscribers. Besides, there are considerable savings in the power consumptions with the introduction of the much smaller and low power consuming equipment. All interfaces and various types of gateways have been indigenously developed by C-DOT. The solution has been deployed in the MTNL network at Delhi and Mumbai for supporting migration to IP for 1000 subscribers at each location. The IMS compliant NGN Core has been installed at Minto Road (New Delhi) and Prabhadevi Building (Mumbai). The subscribers are distributed at the Hauz Khas and Worli exchanges in Delhi and Mumbai respectively. With this successful trial, MTNL can think of launching various services (voice, video and data) through various access modes based on IP. Also, it is now possible to shift existing 3.5 million landline subscribers of MTNL to IP based network. (PIB)
Ravi Shankar Prasad Launches Four World-Class Broadband Products Developed by C-DOT Directs C-DOT to Ensure Digital Literacy in Respective Local Languages
India today launched four world class Broadband products by C-DOT. With this India has become at par with all other developed countries in the world in respect of quality telecommunication services and effective penetration of advanced broadband based services. Union Minister for Communication and IT, Ravi Shankar Prasad while launching the new products indigenously developed by C-DOT today stated that the NDA Government is committed to bring all 2.5 lakh villages under broadband services and enhance internet penetration from 300 million to 500 million within 2 and half years.


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Watch our Bear Grylls... a team of adventorous young explorers from the Ribble Valley are hot on your heels.
The year 10 students from Whalley's Oakhill School set out on their Duke of Edinburgh bronze award expedition to complete their training.
And they proved themselves to be both skilled map readers and navigators who can also survive a night in the open, building their own camp and cooking under the stars.
The intrepid team headed out into the Ribble Valley where they took on the challenge of a 25km circular journey from Newton up around Easington Fell where they were treated to fantastic views.
Blessed with sunny weather they did face strong winds on the summits before they set up camp at Bolton By Bowland and also had the additional challenge of carrying everything to survive for two days.
But they all remained positive and rose to the challenge. They are now looking forward to their final assessed expedition on the more remote terrains of the Yorkshire Dales.


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GITEX 2016 launches new global movement for startups
It announced the exhibition GITEX Technology Week will host the launch of GITEX movement startups, one of the world 's most gatherings of emerging companies in the world, where the more than 30 countries represented, and aims to bring together business owners and innovators, investors, and buyers for the first time in Dubai.
The movement consists GITEX emerging companies from more than 400 start – ups, and more than 1,000 company owner and investor, and consultants from global emerging companies, and will this exclusive gathering highlights the most innovative start – ups around the world.
It will also provide them with a platform for sale, partnerships, and attract investors, as the participants will also be able to compete for prizes, and attend an interactive conference to discuss the challenges faced by the owners of companies, and meet leading industry figures.
This initiative has won already the interest and momentum of the major supporters have from around the world including, Business France, and told crossover want from Singapore, and DJ Robotics from the UAE, and the Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA) of Egypt, and told JETRO Japan, Marco wants to Export from Morocco, and told the Star Systems from Iran, and STC of Saudi Arabia.
The Arab world has a thriving population base of young people, as under the age of 60% of the adult population of 350 million people for 25 years. This young millionaires and connect to the Internet, mobile phones, and use technology, and become young entrepreneurs thanks to the strong support they have received from the government initiatives.
And it worked the UAE to be proactive in leading the revolutionary shift to smart cities and diverse economies in the region. And it stands owners of companies in the Middle East and Africa in the heart of the digital revolution, in light of the expansion witnessed in information and communication technology in all parts of the province.
On this occasion, she said Marmand Trixie Loh, Senior Vice President at Dubai World Trade Center: "The entrepreneurs from all over the world, and the Arab region are women, and young people, entrepreneurs, force real change have a positive impact in our society. All these people need a supportive environment for their care and enable them to grow and succeed. It has GITEX strong legacy as one of the leading international technical events, also has a unique position to shed light on emerging companies. In the presence of 146,000 specialized technical and 22.000 executive director at GITEX, you will inherit these emerging companies a chance to get directly to the strong business network in the industry, and to a large market for the technology, and the entry of developing markets in the Middle East and Africa region, as well as protect their future and their product plans and services. "
And it is committed to the public sector in the United Arab Emirates, to facilitate an enabling environment for the establishment of projects through knowledge Fund of the value of two billion dirhams, which is part of the national strategy for innovation in the state, which aims to accelerate the movement of emerging companies towards the development based on sustainable knowledge economy.
Among other positive ads, set up a fund for the establishment of 500 start-up company $ 30 million in the Middle East and Africa region, and invest $ 250 million of the company in the upper region and emerging companies locally in the UAE. This is in addition to the establishment of the company "market. Com "recently done to ensure an investment of $ 275 million to become the highest value of Internet companies in the Middle East. All of these models are evidence of the high scene entrepreneurship booming in the Middle East and North Africa region, where developing economies vital provides unprecedented opportunities previously untapped.
Increasing the numbers were drawn out of the market in the region and the interest of view serious money capitalists deals, proves that the smart investor can make a profit as a result of investments made by the region. Some of the renowned companies that came out of the market during 2015, the company "Emekspti" Turkish emerging to deliver the food, which was sold B589 million, and the company "requests. Com "of Kuwait, which sold for $ 170 million, and the company" immediate "online payment platform, which was sold for 100 million dollars.
It will Gitex movement startups are, the main event in the event cycle for 2016, as it is also planned to check the sectors of emerging technologies in the region gain a similar, where they will be viewing objects Internet applications, and techniques of the next generation, and solutions for digital marketing, which is expected to occur a revolution in the global economy by 2025.
And benefited the Middle East region from the global industrial transformation, through the early adoption of emerging technologies and techniques of the next generation, owns emerging organizations in the region well positioned to become one of the pioneers and innovators in the field, is already scheduled to play region to spend about $ 60 billion in three-dimensional robots printing , vehicles without a captain, digital marketing, the pattern of smart living, smart clothes, by 2020.
At a time when the Middle East is witnessing rapid shifts toward smart cities, the demand is increasing continuously on innovative solutions. You will Gitex movement for emerging companies to collect business owners, government and key buyers, and vice-chairmen of boards of directors, investors, and the heads of the constituent funds, and mentors from around the world, under its umbrella.
Luo Marmand She added: "The market is wide open for innovation by adults and young technology providers, technical Fmstro eager to distinguish themselves from their competitors, and they are open to be one of the first Mtbnao technology that enables them to bring about a revolution to enhance their customers experience, or open new horizons in the market major industries like fragmentation, health care, education, travel and energy. It will provide GITEX movement startups that breadth and depth for the technology and services to all our visitors commercial investors in innovation and enterprise. "
It will be available to delegates the opportunity to visit national pavilions and suites offer, where there are more emerging companies to raise, and that vehicles subjected without captain and robots, Internet of Things and augmented reality and virtual, artificial intelligence, and finance, retail, health care, education, energy, travel and hospitality, media and marketing, and transport and logistics, and more.
It will provide GITEX Technology Week, specialized areas to view exhibitor products, and provide living solutions emerging presentations, and providers of products from the three-dimensional printing, robots, vehicles without a captain, digital marketing, clothing and Internet of things and style of the smart living, in addition to the orthogonal days to facilitate Visitors researchers experience for specialized knowledge. And it combines GITEX Technology Week is among the pioneers, and powerful, and creative people in the industry, and the program of the privileged communication sessions.
It is expected to attract the GITEX Technology Week more than 146,000 visitors from over 140 countries, including 22,000 from executives, and 3,500 exhibitors from 55 countries.
Held GITEX Technology Week from October 16 to 20, 2016 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
It is noteworthy that GITEX is the largest exhibition and a market for the exchange of knowledge in the technology industry in the Middle East and Africa region, and consists of the event which will be held over five days in the month of October each year at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the exhibition is held on an area of more than 80,000 meters box, and the technology to the pioneers, and the movement of GITEX emerging companies and many other accompanying events.
And it attracts GITEX more than 150,000 specializes in technical and corporate leaders, and officials from the public sector, and the owners of companies from more than 140 countries, focuses exhibition showcasing the latest innovative technologies, offering high return on investment for business opportunities, and represents the show leading in the area of technology and business platform .Viewing:-383
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You like outdoor bike riding but you need to carry clothes, shoes and gears of all kinds. You want to do your groceries and yet pedal to the market. You are looking for a way to put together endless possibilities while riding or walking, and you want a large bag to fit whatever you need. Our B-TOURIST is the solution: lightweight, resistant, high capacity and very versatile, B-TOURIST can be trailed by the bike, hand-pulled or hand-carried as a large bag thanks to its ergonomic handle.
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Well-versed dabbler and well-dabbled verser.
Affectionately called Jackiepedia by those who know me, I have an exhaustive memory for all things knowledge, from the arcane to the ephemeral. I am known to those around me for my speed in delivery, both written and repartee.
Like a chameleon, I go from dry and deadpan to colorful and sprightly. I adapt to any voice and every sliver of personality until it becomes my own, spinning tales that capture your innermost thoughts and reveal them in the most vivid and lifelike way possible.
I am not merely a storyteller. I am a raconteur.
(And I write like a motherfucker.)


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(Reuters) - Roberto Castro's overnight lead of one shot held up when the rain-delayed first round of the BMW Championship was completed on Friday in Carmel, Indiana.
Castro, one of 33 players in the 69-man field to complete the opening round on Thursday before weather halted play, fired a seven-under-par 65 that left him one stroke in front of American compatriot Brian Harmon.
U.S. Open champion Dustin Johnson, former PGA Championship winner Jason Dufner and Englishman Paul Casey were among five players who started out with 67s in the third of the PGA Tour's four playoff events that conclude the season.
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A confident Rory McIlroy, fresh off his victory at the Deutsche Bank Championship on Monday, returned early on Friday morning to complete the final eight holes of his first round.
The Northern Irish world number three, who was three-under after 10 holes on Thursday, mixed a bogey with two birdies over his closing stretch to finish three shots off the pace.
Fourth-ranked Jordan Spieth and fellow American Phil Mickelson, a five-times major winner, also opened with 68s
Only the leading 30 players in the FedExCup standings after this week's event will advance to the Sep. 22-25 Tour Championship finale in Atlanta.
(Reporting by Frank Pingue in Toronto; Editing by Mark Lamport-Stokes)


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Last Wednesday our class took part in FAI Disability Training led by two men, named Chris and Oisin. Chris is an amputee who unfortunately lost his leg in an accident a few years ago. Chris featured on popular Irish TV show, Operation Transformation. He also plays football internationally with fellow amputees. Chris and Oisin gave us an insight on the opportunities available for people with disabilities sports wise. I was stunned as I never heard tell of the different teams involved with the FAI regarding disability football. Oisin coaches these teams and is very passionate on spreading the word about the teams as most people, even with disabilities have never heard tell of them. Chris chatted to us about living with one leg, and how his life has actually improved since it was removed. It was an excellent day, also fair play to the two men involved, it's a long trek from Dublin up to our part of the world..
FAI Disability Training 🇮🇪 ⚽


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Goals and outcomes are two favorite words of managers and planners, right up there with projections, delivery dates and customer satisfaction. Planners try to envision the transformation of a market, a policy, a school, that may flow from their ideas and activity. Similarly, but perhaps more certainly, a pilgrim on a quest can visualize the goal of the journey: the basilica or the spring at Lourdes, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem, the dome of St. Peter's in Rome. But wise pilgrims will leave the outcomes to the Lord, allowing him to work in their hearts and in their circumstances.
More than 30 years ago, when the quest for Christian unity was given a high priority by the Second Vatican Council, it is unlikely that the council fathers had any particular outcome in mind. At that time, they spoke of the restoration of unity, whereas in prior decades Roman Catholics used words like return, even submission. It was hoped then that an organic unity would be forthcoming. Trusting in the Holy Spirit, the church moved into high gear to engage other Christian communities in dialogue. With better information and better education on the nature of these other churches, the glacial climate that had enveloped Orthodox, Protestants and Catholics for centuries began to warm. Exchanges of ideas, visits and personal cordiality at the highest and lowest levels brought about a new atmosphere of mutual respect and appreciation among Christians. As an outcome, that is a remarkable change that is now a solid reality after centuries of hostility and suspicion. Pope John Paul II characterized this as brotherhood rediscovered.
This rediscovery has energized the ecumenical dialogue and it has enhanced ecumenical cooperation. It has also provided deeply moving moments like the commemoration of the witnesses of the 20th century which, more than any previous century, has been the century of martyrs in all the churches and in all ecclesial communities. Cardinal Walter Kasper, the president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, found in the commemoration of this common heritage of martyrdom a source of hope and a seed of Christian unity.
But Cardinal Kasper was realistic as well as hopeful when he provided an overview of the ecumenical situation to the members of his council in November 2001. He noted that the Orthodox and Eastern churches that are nearest to us theologically are more remote both mentally and culturally than the Protestant ecclesial communities. This distance often creates misunderstandings and sometimes makes dialogue difficult and emotionally charged. And those churches, very diverse among themselves, face a changed world in which they are no longer persecuted but see many of their people moving away into the diaspora in Europe, Australia and America.
On the theological and hierarchical level, the climate of relations with the Anglicans is very goodas might be expected, since we come from the same Latin tradition and live in the same Western world. But there are strong tensions within the Anglican Communion, and concern whether common documents, however carefully prepared, are representative of the whole or even the majority of Anglicans. The Lutheran communities worldwide also have unresolved problems among themselves. And between Catholics and Lutherans, differing expectations about the consequences of agreements sometimes led to disappointment and frustration.
On the other hand, Evangelical and newer Pentecostal communities are often closer to us on ethical questions than to the historical Protestant churches and to the World Council of Churches, even though they are distant from us in terms of theological questions.
If there is a crisis in the ecumenical movement, this is to some degree at least due to its success. The closer we come to one another, the more painful is the perception that we are not yet in full communion. There are still serious differences, which must be recognized. We are hurt by those that still separate us and hinder us from assembling around the table of the Lord. Ecumenical progress is, paradoxically, the cause of ecumenical malaise.
Those involved in ecumenical work see education, including catechetical and homiletic instruction, as a crucial issue, as well as personal and community spiritual renewal. These are the keys to providing inspiration and identity, especially to the young. The importance of identity is clear in a world of postmodern pluralism. We must make it clear, to ourselves and others, that serious ecumenism is different from confessional indifference and relativism that tends to meet on the lowest common denominator. But we are heartened by the emergence of a maturing and adult ecumenism, one that has gone beyond early enthusiasms. We must now envision a period during which we will continue living in the present situationan already existing and profound communion, but still not a full communion. We must remain realistic and not make blueprints of abstract models of unity that sooner or later lead only to new disappointments. Instead, we must do what is possible today with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, step by step and with pilgrim patience.


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Used Cars in Lakewood at Prestige Audi - Serving Denver, Westminster, and Golden, Colorado
Prestige Audi's Lakewood used car lot includes a plethora of high quality used Audi cars, as well as many used cars from the major auto manufacturers, including Porsche, BMW, Chevrolet, Subaru, and many more! Among our inventory you'll find a wide variety of high quality used luxury cars, trucks, SUVs and mini-vans for all tastes and budgets in the Denver, Westminster, and Golden areas. Browse our current selection using our Power Search tool above and then call us or stop in and see us at 9201 W. Colfax Avenue, when you see something you're interested in. Our sales team will be happy to set you up with a test drive so that you can explore not only the interior look and feel of the used car, but also it's performance.
If you are in the market for a particular used Audi model or other used car and you don't see it in our inventory, we encourage you to fill out our quick CarFinder form. This allows you to provide us with the details of what you're looking for, and we can utilize our resources to help you find a match.
Beyond The Test Drive | Financing & Servicing Your Used Car at Prestige AudiAfter you've gone on your test drive and you're ready to drive that particular used car back to your Lakewood, Denver, Westminster, or Golden home today, our finance team will step in and help you make that happen. Working in close partnership with you and our lenders, our finance experts make it their goal to help you attain a used car loan that's tailored to your unique situation so that you can leave our dealership feeling confident with your investment. And our services don't end there! After you purchase your used car from us, our loyalty to you has only just begun. Throughout the many miles to come, our highly skilled service team will be here to help you not only maintain, but also service and repair your car to keep it in like-new condition for as long as possible. So, what are you waiting for? Contact us today to get started!
Internet advertised prices includes dealer handling fee of $599. Tax, Title, and Tags not included in vehicle prices shown and must be paid by the purchaser.


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What's the scope in plastic engg?
I have passed my class XII exams with 75 per cent marks. I am going to appear in Central Institute of Plastics Engineering and Technology's (CIPET's) Joint Entrance Exam for the BTech programme in plastics engineering...education Updated: Jun 15, 2009 18:26 IST
I have passed my class XII exams with 75 per cent marks. I am going to appear in Central Institute of Plastics Engineering and Technology's (CIPET's) Joint Entrance Exam for the BTech programme in plastics engineering. What is its scope? What are the job opportunities after the completion of BTech?
— Satbir Singh
You are selecting a good option as the job opportunities for trained professionals in this field are immense, particularly with public sector organisations such as the ONGC, Oil India, polymer corporations of different states, petro-chemical research laboratories, and the Ministry of Petroleum and Chemicals.
Over the last decade, plastics technology and polymer sciences have attracted multi-crore investments from some of the biggest industrial houses in India. Companies like Reliance, Spic, Nocil, Finolex and others have set up plants to produce raw materials as well as research laboratories to develop new products.
Also, there are plants which develop intermediate products like PVC films of various thickness, synthetic marbles, and materials for sanitaryware and so on. Also, there is a lot of work being done to develop such plastics as also low cost polymers, which have a pilfer-proof property, for the packaging of healthcare products and medicines. Plastic waste management industry has also emerged as a parallel option for work.
I am a first-year BSc (applied physical science) student from Delhi University. Can I opt for a diploma/ MSc in forensic sciences after graduation as I didn't have biology in school, but we have biology in our first year? What are the career options after my BSc? In which subjects can I do my post-graduation?
— Priyanka
Forensic science is a laboratory-based profession. The programme equips the student to apply his/her knowledge of science to crime investigation. Forensic scientists analyse all physical evidence found on a victim and compare it to evidence taken from the suspect and provide expert testimony in a court of law. They work closely with the police to provide scientific evidence which is admissible in court. A science background can lead you to a career in forensic science.
You do not specifically require biology for this specialisation. You can either go for a Masters degree in forensic science or a diploma in forensic science and criminology. For this, you need to be a graduate preferably with a first division in physics, chemistry, zoology, botany, biochemistry, microbiology, pharmacy, dentistry or applied science. Punjabi University, Patiala; Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar University, Agra; Bundelkhand University, Kanpur and University of Madras are some of the institutions offering the MSc programme in forensic science to science graduates.
You can also consider a diploma in forensic science and criminology at University of Punjab, Chandigarh; a diploma in forensic anthropology at University of Lucknow, or a certificate in forensic science at Delhi University's department of anthropology.
If interested in the life sciences, you could select from careers such as biotechnology, environmental science, medical laboratory technology, food processing, forestry, plastics and packaging, pharmacy and so on. These fields require post-graduate training, at the degree or the diploma level.
With an MSc in biotechnology, or environmental science, you can work in biotechnology organisations, pharmaceutical companies, chemical industries, agriculture and allied areas, as well as with organisations which dealing in ways to control, eliminate and prevent environmental hazards.
To work in food processing industries and laboratories, you should be an MSc in home science or food technology. This would open up opportunities in the food processing industry with organisations processing and marketing fruit juices, edible oils, breads, soft drink concentrates, fruits vegetables and so on. Pharmacy and jobs in medical laboratory technology are other openings for those with a life sciences degree. Moreover, you can also do an MBA and get into a management-related job.
After class XII, I am planning to study law. But I am confused what to choose. I read about the company secretary (CS) programme in your columns. Should I look up to study law from any other law college and pursue this course? Please tell me details. I can study hard and have a good capacity. With a second division, which are the other courses I can look up? I have good communication skills and want to work hard. Please help me.
There is no need to feel despondent. There are many career options you can select from. While the five-year law programme may not be possible at this stage, it could still be your option after graduation. Since a career is something that you do for most of your life, it should be what that you enjoy doing. So your choice of career must ideally be based upon your aptitude and interests.
After identifying these and the broad arena and environment you see yourself working in, you should be able to choose your career easily. Whether a career in law is advisable or not, really depends on your abilities and interest in this field. To be a lawyer successful, you need to have above average intelligence, analytical abilities, strong memory and excellent communication skills. Moreover, if interested in legal work, you could also consider the CS programme which provides an integrated knowledge of multiple disciplines of law, management, finance and corporate governance.
An expert in corporate laws, securities laws and capital markets, a CS can work for any organisation. For more information, check www.icsi.edu. However, I suggest you complete a Bachelor's programme, either full time or through correspondence while pursuing the CS qualification. Alternatively, you may consider a range of other careers after graduation including advertising, public relations, event management, journalism, mass communication (as in TV and films), fashion design, travel and tourism, and publishing. Teaching and academics are other options. If languages are your forte, then you can go for careers such as information systems management, librarianship, translation, or even sales and marketing.
First Published: Jun 15, 2009 17:36 IST


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Karsen joined the News 4-Fox 11 team in September of 2017 as a morning reporter. He's excited to be a part of the team in his first career job after graduate school.
He graduated with a Master's degree in Sports Journalism in August of 2017 from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University. Before that he received his Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Media Communication from Colorado State University in 2016.
During his time at Arizona State University, he worked for the Phoenix Suns as a communications specialist and reported for the Cronkite Sports Bureau in Los Angeles during the summer. In California he worked for Pac-12 Network at the conference's media days and reported on the Los Angeles Angels.
Karsen's broadcasting career began at Colorado State University where he worked as a reporter, anchor and producer for Campus Television, the school's news station.
He's interned at WOAI News 4 San Antonio and worked with the investigative team on various enterprise and long form stories. Later during his senior year of college he was an intern at KDVR Fox 31 Denver, working with the news and investigative teams.
Born in Missouri, he moved to Colorado when he was 5 and lived there for 17 years. Karsen grew up in Loveland, CO where he picked up skiing and a love for the outdoors. He stays active by working out and playing basketball, and can't wait to take advantage of the area's world-class ski resorts.
Karsen looks forward to his time in Reno and wants to learn as much as possible about the area.
If you have story ideas, feel free to reach out to him on Facebook, Twitter, or by email.


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About This File
This map places you in the middle of something you don't understand. And you don't want to understand it. Monsters are all around and your only hope is Feveswar, your creative alter-ego. And he comes to be very creative when he has to do with killing monsters from hell.


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PRESS RELEASE – In our continued efforts to bring public awareness to violence against women and children, Raise Your Voice Saint Lucia joins the rest of the world in collective global action to say NO to violence.
The theme for this year's campaign is "Prevention". One in three women has experienced physical and sexual violence in their lifetime. It is time to take action and put an end to the violence against women! November 25th each year is observed as "International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women"


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Stock market investors are a funny bunch... eBay decides to buy Shopping.com for $620M. Investors don't like it (okay, that's fine), but because of that, eBay's market cap (based on stock price) lost $2.5B. So in the short term, the acquisition of Shopping.com really costs eBay $3.2B.
Of course, the price will recover, but it's interesting nonetheless. Might not be a bad time to snap up some eBay stock.


text: In my experience, while working with the teams and developing their processes to get accredited for ISO 9001:2008 and CMMI, focus is on writing down their existing way of doing things. Identify measurement parameters and ask them to start monitoring. Once they find out gap between what is expected from process and what is being delivered, improvement opportunities emerge. They are trained on the methodology to improve process systematically, using data.


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Title: Fractured Breaths
Author: Zoey Derrick | @zoeyderrick
Model: Rachael Baltes
Photographer: CJC Photography
Designer: Parajunkee Design
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Date: December 19
Add to your TBR: http://bit.ly/2g218RD
I breathe in.
I breathe out.
I eat, sleep and breathe.
I'm surviving.
I'm a survivor.
I'll do whatever it takes to keep my life moving forward.
I shouldn't want to. I should want to be buried in the ground somewhere. I'm stronger than that, better than that. Right?
My name is Becca Carpenter and no one really knows who I am. Becca Carpenter isn't even my real name.
I slink in and out of the shadows because it's the only way I know I'll survive.
They're after me. One day, they'll find me.
Life takes a turn for the better, but I never expected to find a calm happiness in Phoenix, Arizona. But like everything else, I've destroyed that bliss, and my best friend. It's what I do, how I survive.
Falling in love with a man in the spotlight is definitely not in the cards of my life's story.
But Bryan Hayes, country music's biggest superstar, has other ideas about my past. The only problem is he can't see I'm not the person I pretend to be. He wants me, but will the secrets of my past destroy him?
God knows, it's killing me.
Pre-Order Now


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Dinner the other night was my basic roast chicken, sauteed spinach and SWEET POTATO. Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet. Adding brown sugar or maple syrup and then marshmallows on top of it is uhhhh...not my favorite. I like taking something that is perfectly sweet and turning it into something HOT and SPICY!
Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Chili
4 small sweet potatoes of similar size, scrubbed
1 to 2 tsp. olive oil
1/4 cup sour cream; more for serving
1/2 to 1 chipotle chile in adobo, minced to a paste
2 TBSP. unsalted butter, softened
1 tsp. kosher salt
1 lime cut into quarters
Heat the oven to 425~. Put the potatoes on a foil-lined baking sheet and rub them with olive oil. Cook until tender, about 50 to 55 minutes. Set on a rack to cool but leave the oven on.
When the potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice off about the top one-quarter (lengthwise) of each potato to expose the interior. Scoop out the flesh of each potato and put in a medium bowl. Leave about 1/4 inch of sweet potato attached to the skin to help retain its structure.
Mash the sweet potato flesh, sour cream, chili paste, butter and salt until smooth. Taste to see if you want more heat. Add more chipotle paste if desired. Mound the mixture into the potato skins and set them in a baking pan. Bake the stuffed potatoes at 425~ until hot, 20 to 25 minutes. Serve with lime wedges and more sour cream.
Serves 4
Be sure to squeeze the lime juice on this. It really makes these extra good.


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Improving the energy efficiency of housing, businesses, and community facilities can transform lives and communities by lowering operating costs, creating "green collar" jobs, and reducing carbon emissions. Financing these projects is an emerging and growing segment of the opportunity finance industry, which is uniquely positioned to bring environmental sustainability and economic opportunity to low-income communities traditionally left behind by more mainstream energy efficiency loan programs.
With the support of Bank of America, in 2012 OFN launched an Energy Efficiency capacity building initiative to help CDFIs improve and expand their energy efficiency financing programs. The initiative includes a webinar series and the creation of a low-cost financing fund to support OFN Members' energy efficiency lending.
The links below lead to the webinar podcasts and PowerPoint presentations, the financing fund application, and additional resources.
Energy Efficiency Financing Podcasts and PowerPoints. Hear from leading CDFIs and other experts about how to underwrite energy efficiency loans; measure the cost-savings of energy efficiency retrofits; and develop partnerships to leverage resources and create impact.
Energy Efficiency Financing Resources. Links to articles, Web sites, and other resources for information related to energy efficiency financing.
Podcasts & Webinars
Supported by Bank of America, OFN developed the following trainings to help CDFIs improve their energy efficiency financing programs. Listen to the podcast and download the presentations.
Underwriting Multi-family Energy Efficiency Projects
April 16, 2013
Is your CDFI interested in supporting energy efficiency and cost control in affordable multi-family buildings? Learn how OFN Member Enterprise Community Partners is meeting the challenges of underwriting such transactions.
Listen to podcast below:
Download the presentation.
Underwriting Energy Efficiency Loans for Commercial, Community Facilities, and Mixed Use Real Estate 101
January 29, 2013
Clean energy and community development expert Robert G. Sanders discusses what's needed to adequately underwrite an energy efficiency commercial loan. He introduces different ways to establish baseline and projected energy savings for occupied and unoccupied existing buildings and new construction; identifies special energy-related loan conditions to help ensure that expected energy outcomes are achieved; discusses what the impact of projected energy cost savings will have on the credit analysis (e.g., debt service coverage ratio, real estate appraised value); and suggests an effective application and underwriting process for energy efficiency commercial loans.
Listen to podcast below:
Download the presentation.
Energy Efficiency Measurement and Analysis
December 11, 2012
Often a third of a building's operating budget, utility expenses can be the biggest—and most unpredictable—line item. In the past, understanding a facility's energy performance was time-consuming, tedious, and unwieldy. Manual data entry and record keeping frequently resulted in inconsistent and error-prone analysis. Today, a number of software products exist to simplify this process and provide automated utility tracking and building performance benchmarking. In this podcast, two of the leading platforms in the market, WegoWise and EnergyScoreCards, demonstrate their products and show how utility analysis can uncover savings opportunities in your existing properties or in plans for new construction.
Listen to podcast below:
Partnerships for Energy Efficiency Lending
November 13, 2012
Effective energy efficiency lending requires unique skills and knowledge. In this podcast, learn which improvements have the most impact for the least cost and how to structure loans that work for the customer and the CDFI. Hear from Jack Markowski, President & CEO of Community Investment Corporation, and Anne Evens, Director of CNT Energy, who describe their successful Energy Savers partnership, which has reduced energy costs by 30% in more than 9,500 affordable apartments in the Chicago Metro area. This innovative partnership combines the lending expertise of a CDFI and energy efficiency expertise of a nonprofit energy organization to deliver a one-stop shop for multifamily building owners.
Listen to podcast below:
Download the presentation.
Green Finance Fund/United States Green Building Council (USGBC)
April 25, 2012
Wanda Speight, EVP Financial Services for OFN, discusses OFN's Energy Efficiency Financing Program and announces OFN's partnership with the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). Beth Holst, VP of Strategic Alliances for USGBC, presents an overview of USGBC and some of the benefits OFN Members will receive through the partnership, including free and discounted services.
Listen to podcast below:
Download the presentation.
Other Resources
Below are links to Web sites, articles, and other resources that may be useful to CDFIs involved in energy efficiency financing. If you have materials you'd like to share, please send them to Jacqueline Fox at email@example.com.
The Clean Energy States Alliance (CESA). CESA is a national nonprofit organization that works with state leaders, federal agencies, industry players, and other stakeholders to promote renewable energy and energy efficiency. CESA's mission is to support state and local leadership to promote the use of existing and emerging clean energy.
Database of State Incentives for Renewals and Efficiency (DSIRE). DSIRE is a comprehensive source of information on incentives and policies that support renewables and energy efficiency in the United States. This site includes a clickable map of the 50 states with tax incentives, loan programs, utility programs, etc.
Home Energy Efficiency and Mortgage Risks. A new report by the UNC Center for Community Capital and Institute for Market Transformation shows the risk of mortgage default is one-third lower for energy-efficient, ENERGY STAR-rated homes—a factor lenders and Congress should consider when making mortgage loans and policy.


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No. 4 Cal Men's S&D Defeats Arizona State, 178-113
BERKELEY – In its first Pac-12 dual meet of the season, the No. 4-ranked Cal men's swimming and diving team (4-0) won 12 races on the way to a 178-113 dual meet victory over conference foe Arizona State Friday (Jan. 24) at Spieker Aquatics Complex. The Golden Bears were placed by two wins apiece from sophomore Josh Prenot and freshman Ryan Murphy.
Prenot captured the 100 breast (55.47) and 400 IM (3:51.45), while Murphy placed first in the 100 (44.27) and 200 free (1:37.51).
Cal also won both relays, winning the 200 medley relay (1:27.20) behind the swims of senior Tony Cox, junior Chuck Katis, senior Marcin Tarczynski and junior Seth Stubblefield; and the final event – the 200 free relay (1:19.03) of sophomore Tyler Messerschmidt, Murphy, junior Fabio Gimondi and Stubblefield.
Additional individual winners for the Bears were freshman Janardan Burns in the 1000 free (9:18.72), sophomore Jacob Pebley in the 100 back (47.97), Stubblefield in the 50 free (20.00), junior Jesse Ryckman in the 200 back (1:49.08), Katis in the 200 breast (2:00.19), junior Will Hamilton in the 500 free (4:30.30).
"It had been a long time since we had raced together as a team," said Cal coach David Durden. "It was great to see us race consistently throughout the meet. We are looking forward to racing against a tough Arizona team tomorrow."
Arizona, led by 2013 NCAA Swimmer of the Year Kevin Cordes, is ranked fifth nationally after placing third at the 2013 NCAA meet, trailing only Michigan and Cal..
Basketball Pre-Game ShowTODAY | 6:30pm PTLive
TODAY | 7:00pm PTLive
Basketball Post GameTODAY | 9:00pm PTLive


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What is the best diaper selection for the setting?
I was elevated in non reusable baby diapers, as was my sister as well as all of our little cousins. Up until I began investigating this inquiry, I believed that I would certainly sooner or later clothe my little tykes in disposable diapers. I assumed that towel baby diapers would certainly be much better for the environment, but returning to the midlifes of child care simply seemed unacceptably unpleasant. Still, I began fairly, looking at how the two choices are made.
What Does Cloth diapering Takes
What goes into a diaper? Electricity, water and basic material. And also how various are the two baby diaper alternatives? Disposable diapers create greatly more land fill waste compared to reusables, obviously. It takes a lot even more water to make a towel baby diaper than a non reusable one, primarily to expand and also refine the cotton. When the water made use of to wash the reusables is added to the formula, cloth baby diapers call for twice as much water as non reusable diapers do. I was stunned when I found this gem of information concealed in the calculations of a UNITED KINGDOM Setting Company report comparing fabric and also non reusable baby diapers.
The very same report computed every resource used, from water and power to plastics and also cotton, throughout production, usage and also disposal of the particular baby diaper items. This even more detailed analysis determined the relative ecological influence on everything from global warming to harmful waste. I'll enter the information in the Basics, however right here's the genuine shock: cloth and non reusable nappies concern a close to incorporate total environmental impact.
Video: Eco Cloth in Cleveland
Does Cloth Have an impact on the environment?
The production of disposable baby diapers has a bigger carbon impact, but the electricity used to wash multiple-use baby diapers cancels out many of the difference. Towel diapers create even more toxic waste that could influence human health and wellness, because of the electrical energy, cleaning agent and also softener used to clean them.
Just what will I wrap my children little buns in?
I don't intend to contribute to the thousands of tons of diapers sent to landfills every year. The needed washing of towel diapers may be equally problematic, especially in drought-stricken locations. Cloth baby diapers will certainly constantly use even more water compared to disposables, however they also provide extra possibilities to reduce overall environmental impact– using a lot more efficient washers, as well as cleaner soaps and also source of power.
Better Towel baby diaper design Is the response
A new layout of fabric nappies with a compostable lining might be the service to diaper sustainability. You can wash the external towel baby diaper less often, as well as either compost the stained inner layer or purge it down the toilet. With a DIY diaper, you can dress up your child's bottom in a fashionable old performance t-shirt.
Exactly what else will I need to become A Cloth Queen?
As well as do not forget:
Baby diapers are simply one product your baby will certainly require. Decreasing your child's various other effects can be as easy as looking to Craigslist, consignment shops and baby swaps before you acquire brand-new clothes and playthings. When unsure, minimize, recycle as well as recycle– as well as educate your children to do the exact same.


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Increasing engagement: A school revamps its reading invervention program
We'd like to think that it happens we just don't hear about it — a Stenhouse blog post planting a seed in a teacher or principal's head. Matt Renwick is an elementary principal in Wisconsin and he shared with us how he re-thought his school's reading intervention program after reading a blog post by Peter Johnston. Matt will be back in a few months to share the results of the new program.
Increasing engagement
For a while it was popular in educational circles to talk about "time on task". In some circles it still is. But, as many have noted, children are always on task; the important question is, what is the task?
– Peter Johnston, Knowing Literacy
My school faced a dilemma last spring: The grant for our after school reading intervention had run out. The loss of funding would also affect our A.M. and P.M. study centers. Many of our students and families utilized these services to get extra academic support and to provide supervision for children whose parents worked early or late. We had a captive audience in those who attended, but no resources left with which to captivate them, or so I initially thought.
As I prepared our final report for the grant, I noticed a pattern. Students who attended the structured, computer-based reading intervention after school did not make gains when compared to their peers. However, students who attended the morning and after school study centers, with minimal educator support, showed more growth than their school peers. It was a small sample size, but results nonetheless.
Around the same time, I came across Peter Johnston's post "Reducing Instruction, Increasing Engagement" on the Stenhouse blog. In it he describes a study he conducted with Gay Ivey in a secondary classroom. Students were given edgy fiction and few expectations, other than to read the books and discuss them with classmates. They took control of their learning, selecting texts based on their interests and communicating with each other about what they read. Subsequently, their tests scores went up and their social and emotional well being improved.
This post was the proverbial manna from heaven. Along with Richard Allington's suggestion in Schools That Work for the principal to help facilitate the morning center, we had a possible answer to our problem. Some of our Title I funds were allocated to support two staff members two times a week to facilitate the after school book club for 4th and 5th graders. At the same time, I shifted the schedule of an English Language Learner aide so she would come in an hour earlier to catch the students in the morning. Even though all of this programming was to be hosted in the school library, we did purchase some high interest texts from a local book store. Total cost for this year-long program: Approximately $3000.
So how have we reduced instruction and increased engagement?
A greater variety of literacy resources are available. For example, students can listen to books on tape, practice their letters and writing using art supplies, and select any text they find interesting.
In both the morning study center and after school book club, we strive to provide choice in books. Some guidance is provided by staff when they appear to have a tough time finding their next read. However, for the most part we stay out of the way.
We have created an inviting, cozy environment to allow kids to chat with each other while reading their books. Whistle chairs, foam shaped like an upside down whistle and covered with a leather case, are an example of a purchase we made to help create this climate. Educators need to give kids permission to read, both with our words and our actions. By doing this, we let them know that it is okay to just sit around and enjoy a book while at school.
As well, they like writing book reviews on bookmark cards. They are propped on the front of the respective book and displayed on a designated table for others to check out. These students are now seen as readers and writers by their classmates. At this age, peers' perceptions are students' realities.
One hiccup we have noticed is the inconsistent attendance of a few of our 4th and 5th graders after school. To address this, the staff and I have discussed ways to leverage technology to increase engagement. One idea is allowing students to connect on Edmodo. It is a safe social media tool for schools to share and discuss their learning. This would allow students to write their thoughts and questions about what they are reading for a broader audience, as well as read what others have posted.
At a fraction of the previous year's costs, we have developed a literacy intervention that engages students and has the potential to increase students' reading abilities at a faster rate than prescribed programming. At the same time, departing from past practices is a scary proposition for us as educators. It means giving up the spotlight and allowing student learning to take center stage. Teachers and principals, myself included, sometimes think we can control student outcomes. This naturally leads us into trying to control the learning at times. Yet it is an open and curious mind that learns best. We can facilitate this mindset by increasing engagement in students through thoughtful instruction and sharing our enthusiasm for reading. And isn't engagement the reason we read and learn anyway?
10 comments January 22nd, 2013


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2008 Philadelphia Marathon: 3:12:22 / 7:20
Final Time: 3:12:22
Pace: 7:20
Rank: 446
Age Grade: 64.9%
01: 7:36:16
02: 7:10:57
03: 7:04:71
04: 8:13:15
05: 5:58:13
06: 6:46:00
07: 7:23:88
08/09: 14:14:20
10: 7:19:21
11: 7:00:18
12: 6:58:74
13: 7:05:25
14: 7:11:83
15: 7:14:86
16: 7:22:83
17: 7:19:51
18: 7:21:37
19: 7:35:26
20/21: 14:43:00
22: 7:35:34
23: 7:44:13
24: 7:54:37
25: 7:53:11
26: 7:55:35
0.2: 1:38:49
Net time: 3:12:22! Affirmative...the weather was cold, but I really don't see the point of affecting your race that much. As I have stated from time and time again to the point of exhaustion that any runners have to adapt to different conditions. The moment one complains about the weather, you would psyche yourself out mentally before the race. Yes I hate the cold, but would i resort to slitting my wrists and complaining about the weather? Absolutely not.
I'm relieved that my 2008 scheduled races are over! I came into Philly with minimal expectations but of course, I wouldn't do a marathon for the sake of doing one. I definitely want to stay consistent and pull a respectable time because the truth is, I do care about the end result. I truly believe that my splits compared to NYC, were relatively similar. I think I started too conservatively, lacked a game plan and didn't really "push it" throughout the race. My only sub 7 was on mile 12! Best buddy Kieran, ran a 3:04 (PR) and passed me on mile 9. I knew I wasn't hitting my mark since he passed me on mile 18-19 in NYC 3 weeks ago. However, I'm glad I started conservatively because i was hurting everywhere, my pf, upper left and right calf region was going insane - but like always, I just have to deal with it - no excuses.
Just like any other half/full marathon races, it was demoralizing to see the half marathoners finishing the course! Also by the half marathon mark, I gotta' give a quick shout out to christian of UATH; way to rock MOAB! By mile 20, I almost tripped over the cones on Kelly Drive due to the congestion and the fact that several runners in front of me started to slowed down...(Another reason for me in being a shyt magnet - I ALWAYS do that and SHYT always happens to me!). By mile 23, I had the decision to make a move. For some reason, i didnt. I told myself that I could either enjoy the race with minimal injury with a 3:11-3:15 range as the end result or killing myself to shoot for another 3:10. I told myself that (i know how lame this is...but in the third person! hahaha) "hey moz, you demonstrated a 3:09 in NYC 3 weeks ago, and it is ok." Even if I hit a 3:10-3:11, it wouldn't change anything in terms of the BQ and wouldn't come close to lowering my qualifying time. In the end it was smooth sailing after miles 23 and on. Overall, there's nothing that I would change; it was the best that I could do on that given day.
Philadelphia was great. Albeit short, I'm glad to check out the city in a different way. The course was absolutely scenic and I would rank it a notch below Charlottesville. Coming into the city, Lulek (4:32), Kieran (3:04 - PR), a few others and I drove down to jersey and was dumbstrucked by the cheap gas prices. We remembered seeing 1.69 per gallon and was frowning over the fact that we paid 1.97 for gas! We never seen gas this cheap before!
After the race, we met up with my bro, wongster who took the 5am Fung-friggin-wah to get to philly- major thanks for him to do that for us. Nice medal from the marathon, and of course we made our girls come with us for a philly steakhouse tour for a post-run filler-up. I honestly don't feel as broken as I was after NYC. I think my body is getting really used to this distance-- I feel like I could run another 6-8 miles tonite or tomorrow. But I'm going to hold back because this could be deceiving...endorphins perhaps? Overall, for the 5 marathons (Long Island - 3:07, Charlottesville - 3:11, Hamptons - 3:15, NYC - 3:09, Philly - 3:12), i think i tried my best to stay within a consistent range. I have no complaints about this year, but really want to leverage this year's results and mindset to carry onto 2009. For 2009, I would like to make a consistent showing in the races and also try to race and train smarter (ie. leaner marathon/racing schedule and incorporating more mileage/hill/speed work).
Lastly, for the first time, I ran this race WITHOUT an ipod. I actually emailed the Philly people and they responded: "USATF prohibits the use of ipods, etc." However, there were tons of runners with their music devices; hence it was NOT enforced. I should've known that! Oh well, shyt happens right?
Nice job on parking my dad's van! Haha!
"Cracked" view Mirror


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In the past week we have done several outside projects around our house and had some quality family time together.
Last Wednesday Liam and I got to spend time with our good friend Jackie. We went grocery shopping at Aldi, picked up a few items at Tractor Supply and Went to Home Depot to pick up a few Mother's Day gift Items. While at Home Depot Liam was SO exhausted this happened:
Let me tell you get some very strange looks when 2 adults are seemingly pushing around a race car cart with no child in it. Oh well he napped and that is all the mattered to me!
We also bought some Strawberry and Hula-Berry Plants. A Hula-Berry looks like a white strawberry but is supposed to taste like a pineapple. I will keep you updated on this one.
On Sunday we had some items to return to Tractor Supply & Home Depot and also made a trip to the local Wal-Mart. While at the Home Depot I purchased 2 - 4ft pieces of rebar and 10 terra cotta pots. As the rain broke I made my family go outside so that I could build 2 of these fun garden sculptures.
I made 1 for flowers and the other one will be the home for my fresh herbs. I also got a clematis, to use as a privacy screen on our fence. And of course our backyard chickens.
We made the most delicious roasted veggies on Sunday for dinner (I snap chatted the picture but it didn't save) I roasted Brussels Sprouts, Sweet Potatoes and Carrots with a little coconut and olive oil poured over them. I added a little onion powder , garlic powder, salt and pepper.
I also discovered one of my new FAVORITE shakeology recipes!
1/2 Cup Coconut Water
1/2 Cup Chocolate Almond Milk
2 Tbsp Almond Butter
10 Ice Cubes
1 Packet/Scoop of Chocolate Shakeology
It kinda sorta tastes like an almond joy bar!
I am also going to share some of the fun photos we have captured this week.
|Liam wearing a baseball cap just like Daddy!
|It's rough getting up at 4:30 am to workout!
|Tubby Time Smiles!
|The "CHEESE" Monster