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Greetings. 🙂
I don't know who created this tag and it is also quite old, I suppose. All I know is some publishing company created it. I found it on booktube & I thought maybe I should post it. Without further ado, let's get started.
1 Choose one word that describes you as a reader?
I'd say 'antsy' I guess. Because no matter what book I'm reading, even if I'm hating it I still get so antsy and get so much into it. I don't know, it was the first thing that came in my mind.
2. What's the very first book you fell in love with?
So, I'm a Pakistani and in Urdu literature we have these short children story books which are so interesting. I don't see them now a days (I guess they got extinct or something Idk ) Well kids these days will never know the beauty of those old days. Coming back to the point, those stories were about beasts, mermaids and basically so many mythical creatures and I used to love reading about those books (I suppose I was 7 or 8 when I started reading them). I guess those were the first books I fell in love with.
3. Hardcover books or Paper bag books?
Obviously Hardcover books because hardcover has this ability to make every trashy cover look better in my opinion. But paper bag are easy to handle while reading. But still if I had to choose, I would say hardcover and the funny thing is I don't own that many hardcovers because they are soooooo expensive in Pakistan.
4. How has reading shaped your identity?
Oh God! I believe I have an identity only because of books. I started looking at things quite differently when I started reading more frequently. I would rather choose books over anything in this world. I have become more reserved when it comes to connecting with people because I trust, respect and love books more than I can trust, respect and love people.
5. What book do you read when you need to be comforted?
Any YA, NA contemporary. Because I can't read Sci-fi when I'm upset because it takes a lot of energy to comprehend it, linguistically speaking (Yes I do learn something from university). And YA or NAs are always easy to read and they manage to take my mind off of things pretty easily.
6. Who taught you to be a reader? Or did you do it on your own?
I think I have mentioned this in some of my previous posts that my maternal side is quite into literature but I don't think this was what made me a reader. I figured it out myself that I'm a reader. It took me some time to realize it but I kind of did it on my own.
7. Describe your dream reading lounge?
A cozy library that I will own someday with snowfall outside and a comfy blanket with all the books I love in the world before my eyes.
8. What book changed the way you act? Or changed the way you see the world?
I believe every single book that I have read has left some impact on me, no matter if I liked it or not but I believe I'm a combination of everything that I have ever read. But if I had to choose I would say The Book Thief by Markus Zusak. This book really taught me and made me realize so many things in life and I guess every historical novel has this quality of changing you completely.
So this was the very first book tag that I have ever done. Yaayy for me! 😀
If you are interested in doing this tag then please do it so I would know why you are a reader. 🙂
A Bibliophile. ❤


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Everyone needs coach. Everyone.Wednesday, March 24th, 2010
Last week I had the pleasure of working with 82 sales managers on best interview practices. The program was initiated by the recruiting team, to whom I offer my thanks and gratitude for the opportunity. Through the course of the week I noticed that not one of the recruiters went to any of the programs and I asked a few of them why. In short, their responses went something like this: I interview over 300 people a year. (insert incredulous look from the recruiter here) Why would I need to go through interview training???
Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't that like Kobe Bryant saying, "I play 82 games per season. Why would I need coaching on my free throw form?
Or like Tom Brady saying, "I'm a two-time Super Bowl MVP. I don't need to work on my mechanics."
Or like Joe Biden saying, "I give public addresses hundreds of times per year. Why would I need to be coached on how to present?"
OK, maybe Biden was a poor example; however, if the best athletes, public speakers, sales people, etc. have coaches, why do recruiters or people who routinely interview not need coaches?
I recall the old saying that goes something like this: The day we stop learning is the day we die. Maybe that's a bit strong, but for the President, CEO, or VP of a large company, maybe it should go something like this: The day my people stop learning is the day my company dies.

subset: commoncrawl


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STARmeterSEE RANK
Down 2,115 this week
Moon Unit Zappa
Actress | Soundtrack | Writer
Moon Unit Zappa was born on September 28, 1967 in New York City, New York, USA. She is an actress, known for European Vacation (1985), Normal Life (1990) and Love Always (1996). She was previously married to Paul Doucette. See full bio »
Born:in New York City, New York, USA


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Welcome to RS Floors Maidstone
We have 25 years of experience in all types of domestic and commercial floor covering.
We offer a high quality service from start to finish to all our customers. Choose from our extensive range of floor covering to suit all needs and budgets.
Call us now on 07887 818 182
Our policy is to treat your home / business, as we would our own – with care and attention.
* Including Karndean as an approved installer / * Including Solid oak to Engineered products


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Last night, I heard a work in progress explosion or as I call it " bubble guts".
So, I anticipated liquid poo for the forecast today…
and liquid poo is what J delivered with a extra side of vomit!!!
I have had to change the bed sheets, wash him up in the tub, and wash his clothes & linens.
He still has a slight fever. the fever reducer isn't taking it down.
He still has a appetite….he is nursing and just wants to be held. He's moving alot. flapping his arms like is flying and moving his legs all around!
While he sits on my lap we are reading his favorite books and giving him lots of kisses.
He has been very helpful; helping me take my bedsheets off the bed and helping to mop after I mopped the floor.
We went outside to play in the mud…J enjoyed splashing in the water..He wanted nothing to do with getting muddy. With my assistance he scooped mud in the dump truck.
J agreed to go inside and take a nap since he was out of sorts and just wanted to rest. He then changed his mind and ventured into the playroom to play with toys and watch Thomas & Friends. He is sitting on the "puke sheet" with his turquiose vomit basin near him!
He is sipping on a wild concuction of juice (pomergranate& blueberry) gingerale & water.


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I tried to run some scripts in Powershell yesterday on my new SharePoint server, but was unable to do so and I got this message: "The execution is disabled on this system".
The solution to this problem is very simple. Just write the following command:
Set-ExecutionPolicy Unrestricted
Now you will be able to run your ps1 scripts in Powershell.


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Mathura: Security has been beefed up in the temple city of Mathura in the wake of the terrorist attack in Pathankot.
Strategy has been chalked out with the coordination of Army at a meeting which was attended by District Magistrate Rajesh Kumar, SSP Rakesh Singh and a senior Army officer.
"For better liason and to avoid any such situation, it has been decided that the administration will take precautionary measures and conduct joint checkings in the district," SSP Rakesh Singh said. Stringent security measures have been taken at railway station, bus station, Bankey Behari temple, Dwarkadhish temple and Isckon temple, he said.
Intensive frisking in Mathura Refinery has also been initiated and the checking in the Cantonment area has been increased.
People have been advised to remain alert in the backdrop of the attack, the SSP said. "The people of Mathura as well as pilgrims are expected to cooperate with the administration and remain alert," the DM said.
An army officer of the Captain rank today made a round of crowded areas such as temples and market places falling under Kotwali police station. "No untoward incident has been reported from anywhere," SSP Singh said.


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Billinudgel - Mullumbimby - Federal
This is quite a way south so most Brisbane people have not ridden on these roads much, but its really not so hard to do, even from Brisbane northern suburbs this ride is still only a day trip if you leave early-ish.
Now follow this road to Mullumbimby - this is a twisty road that is alot of fun, some really tight corners to be found but road surface is bit bumpy so like nearly all of my postings need to have your suspension set compliant. When you arrive at the edge of town centre, turn right and go through the town's main street.
From Mullumbimby you can ride two routes to Federal, here is the first route:
This takes you along the top of a high ridge and is very scenic. There is a lookout half way along that is half hidden on your left however I recommend you take a look as you can see down to Byron Bay from here.
This ride continues in the second section titled Federal to Clunes.


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Rosacea Found in African Americans
Although rosacea most often strikes fair-skinned individuals, it is not unheard of in non-Caucasians. "Rosacea is uncommon in African Americans, but it does exist," said Dr. Denise Buntin, adjunct associate professor of dermatology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, who has several black patients who suffer from rosacea.
The usual symptoms of rosacea also occur in blacks, though some may appear differently, she said. For example, the persistent redness seen in light-skinned sufferers will have a more violet tone in an African American. Though flushing is not as apparent, black sufferers describe a feeling of warmth on the face. Dr. Buntin said her patients have also noticed increased oiliness and inflammation on the face, including bumps and pimples.
As in fair-skinned rosacea patients, the condition may progress to rhinophyma, where the nose becomes large and bumpy with excess tissue. Ocular rosacea has also been documented in African Americans.1
"Certainly the damage to self-esteem is the same for African Americans with rosacea as it is for fair-skinned sufferers," she said. However, the need for early treatment is especially important in black patients because there is a danger of hyperpigmentation -- darkening of skin color -- in those areas of the facial skin where inflammation has appeared.
Associated References
Browning DJ, Rosenwasser G, Lugo M. Ocular Rosacea in Blacks. American Journal of Ophthalmology. 1986;101:441-444.
Contact Us
- Phone:
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196 James St.
Barrington, IL 60010
Our Mission
The National Rosacea Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve the lives of people with rosacea by raising awareness, providing public health information and supporting medical research on this widespread but little-known disorder. The information the Society provides should not be considered medical advice, nor is it intended to replace
consultation with a qualified physician. The Society does not evaluate, endorse or recommend any particular medications, products, equipment or treatments. Rosacea may vary substantially from one patient to another, and treatment must be tailored by a physician for each individual case. For more information, visit About Us.


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Yet another awesome looking device that Tmobile US will NEVER get
XperiaArcS user, 04 Jan 2013Wait a sec... no LED for photo shots? wtf?!Wow, I missed that. That makes this phone a pass.
Great looks! Better looking than any Galaxy phone yet. . I think this phone would be a great candidate for the RedDot design award. . :)
AnonD-96426, 04 Jan 2013It does have an LED flash the Drogontrail glass hides it. If you look at the previous leaks fr... moreThank you, I will take a look =)
AnonD-35192, 04 Jan 2013no, there's a flash look at this pic http://i582.photobucket.com/albums/ss269/netbookc/XB1/... morewell I can't see it in this pic O_o
AnonD-76905, 04 Jan 2013Don't know about the hardware, but Samsung cannot even come close to such premium look. Seriou... moreMaybe not but they must be doing something right with their features and software if they are the biggest selling android phone.
AnonD-35192, 04 Jan 2013well, the iPhone was inspired by Sony designs from the beginning anywayIphone & sony copied LG phone's design.
this phone looks like the LG OPTIMUS G(at&t version)
shame on you sony!
It does have an LED flash the Drogontrail glass hides it. If you look at the previous leaks from the russian website the LED light can clearly be seen its just the still image isnt that high in resolution so it looks like there isnt one but there is.
really nice looking phone, I would get it if it runs something other than android.
XperiaArcS user, 04 Jan 2013Wait a sec... no LED for photo shots? wtf?!no, there's a flash look at this pic
in hardware, maybe, but in design xperia phones are a waaayy better looking than galaxy, a lot of people will agree with that, especially the latest designs of samsung are feminish,, thats exactly the reason why i didn't buy an s3, s2 are more masculine in look compared to the s3 so im still with my s2 and xperia phones, so you cannot just say the up coming s4 Was better cause xperia are are good looking phones


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These days, it's too easy to send text or email your friends about what's happening in your life. But you're not getting the same giggle when they're infront of you upon sharing the juicy details. I understand everyone is busy and we're trap in the rat race of life.
It's difficult planning night out or coffee date with your friends when they live in a different city. Worst is they work abroad, We are geographically challenged, so I seldom see some of my friends in high school and college.
I just came to realize most of them were in medical field. Because during our time getting yourself to nursing school was a trend.Now, they work and live abroad.
They are one of my favorite faces on earth. I'm missing Airisse, Amor and Aubry here. We usually do this once a year or maybe twice. They live abroad and others live in a different cities. I'm sharing our lil getaway in Samal Island.
Photos: Eric Estrabon


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View and/or download a high-resolution version
Institutions in the US are the leaders by far when it comes to winning income from intellectual property (such as technology licences), whereas Japanese universities earn almost nothing.
Japan also produces relatively few university spin-off companies – although the number of spin-offs says little about their success in the market.
UK and US universities do best at attracting money from industry for research.
"The clear picture is of the UK being globally competitive in terms of commercialising knowledge," according to the most recent Higher Education Business and Community Interaction Survey, from which the data are drawn.


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Browsing Recipes similiar to Chicken And Seafood Rub Recipe.
Loin of lamb with a garlic and anchovy crust, with pea and bean salad, garlic and herb potatoes and red wine and onion reduction
black pepper, garlic, onions, +lamb, +olive oil, +anchovy fillets, +anchovies, +bread crumbs, +parsley, +dijon mustard, +potato, +water, +thyme, +rosemary, +butter, +red wine, +chicken broth, +salad greens, +peas, +broad beans, +tomato
www.bbc.co.uk - Similiar recipes
Passover Recipe Persian Chicken Soup With Chicken Dumplings Recipe
Adapted from a recipe by chef Todd Aarons of Tierra Sur. Ask your kosher butcher in advance to grind the chicken if you don't have a grinder at home, as...
garlic, onions, sea salt, +cardamom, +carrot, +chicken, +mint, +lime, +english peas, +kosher salt, +flour, +olive oil, +celery, +spanish onions, +turmeric
Chicken in a Pot Plus Stock or Dumplings
This is quite different from the Chicken in a Pot recipe already posted (#7202), which calls for tomato and very little liquid. I like this alternative...
onions, black pepper, +allspice, +bay leaf, +carrot, +celery, +thyme, +parsley, +salt, +water, +chicken
www.recipezaar.com - Similiar recipes
Chicken Enchilada Bake Recipe
onions, black pepper, sea salt, garlic, chili powder, +cheese, +corn tortillas, +green chilies, +chicken, +olive oil, +enchilada sauce, +cumin
Sweet And Sour Chicken Thighs And Carrots Recipe
This is an old Jewish recipe that I found and use. I kind of change it as I see fit, but you can do as you like when you make it. Prep:12m
garlic, onions, black pepper, +cinnamon, +carrot, +chicken, +parsley, +lemon juice, +honey, +salt, +water, +olive oil, +paprika
Creamy Chicken And Biscuits Recipe
Have you ever looked at some of these recipes and thought..."Man I think I hear a witch chanting in the background." The pestle with t... the pellet with...
garlic, onions, black pepper, +biscuit, +celery, +chicken, +chicken broth, +mushroom, +potato, +water, +salt, +parsley
Spicy Stew With Shrimp Chicken And Okra Recipe
This is a very forgiving, very flexible soup. Sometimes I add rice (about 1 cup cooked) to make it heartier, or andouille (4 ounces or so) for a zingier...
black pepper, chili powder, garlic, sea salt, +chicken, +cayenne, +celery, +chicken broth, +oregano, +red pepper, +tomato, +shrimp, +thyme, +flour, +butter, +vegetable oil, +yellow onions
Brazilian Chicken, Sausage And Black Bean Stew Recipe
black pepper, chili powder, garlic, onions, +olive oil, +red pepper, +salt, +smoked sausage
www.cdkitchen.com - Similiar recipes
Chicken and Cashew Curry With Chutney and Mint Raita Asia Nora
black pepper, garlic, onions, sea salt, +chicken, +vegetable oil, +cashew, +chicken broth, +cilantro, +curry powder, +garam masala, +ginger, +jalapeno, +lemon juice, +yogurt
www.recipezaar.com - Similiar recipes
Roasted Red Pepper And Tomato Soup Recipe
Nice Red pepper and tomato soup with a little kick. The longer it sits, the spicier it gets. Prep:60m
chili powder, garlic, black pepper, sea salt, onions, +basil, +cayenne, +chicken broth, +chipotle pepper, +garlic powder, +heavy cream, +olive oil, +peppers, +paprika, +red pepper, +sugar, +thyme
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text: 11 Veda for Archana hot pics - South Indian actress known for MMS video Archana Veda is South Indian actress who appears mainly in Telugu films. It is 25-year-old girl who made his debut in the industry in 2000 when she was only 15 years old. Your full name is Veda Archana Sastry and was born in Hyderabad. She is an actress hot and sexy has intentions additional with delicious figure, but they in 2009 with their MMS video scandal. She appeared in Malayalam, Telugu and Kannda movies. Archana is really a Desi hot actress from South. Check these sharp images and photos for Archana exclusively from her bedroom.


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I knew from the opening coin flip New England was going to have a long day. As Justin Tuck extended his hand to say good luck to the Patriots captains Devin McCourty inexcusably refused to shake. It's bad karma to display bad sportsmanship before the biggest game of your life.
Just as predicted the double jinx was in full effect. The Giants didn't man handle the Patriots, but they did just enough to win. The early safety definitely caught New England off guard and the injury to Rob Gronkowski was more significant than anyone anticipated. I think a healthy Gronk may have caught the Hail Mary ricochet at the end of the game. Give the Giants credit though. Nicks, Cruz, and Manning made plays when they needed to. As for the Patriots? Wes Welker may be kicking himself for a late 4th quarter drop, but Tom Brady wasn't as accurate in the 2nd half as he usually is and that catch would have been difficult at best. Still 5 Super Bowl appearances is nothing to sneeze at and when it's all said and done Brady's place in history is secure. Here are some weekend observations.
Cortez Kennedy finally got into the Hall of Fame and I couldn't be happier for the Hurricane/Seahawk. It's good to see him finally get the recognition he deserves.
Alberto Contador was stripped of his 2010 Tour De France title for using performance enhancing drugs. Is there a dirtier sport than cycling when it comes to this issue?
Jared Sullinger is hands down the best player in college basketball. He's got better low post moves than half of the power forwards playing in the NBA. The extra year in school did wonders for his game.
Madonna put on a good halftime show with lots of lights and dancers, but she looked a step slow. Apparently singing and dancing is a little more grueling when you're in your fifties. I don't think she's ready for a world tour anytime soon.


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Except where otherwise authorized by statute, costs must meet the following general criteria in order to be allowable under Federal awards:
- Be necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award and be allocable thereto under these principles.
- Conform to any limitations or exclusions set forth in these principles or in the Federal award as to types or amount of cost items.
- Be consistent with policies and procedures that apply uniformly to both federally-financed and other activities of CUNY.
- Be accorded consistent treatment. A cost may not be assigned to a Federal award as a direct cost if any other cost incurred for the same purpose in like circumstances has been allocated to the Federal award as an indirect cost.
- Be determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
- Not be included as a cost or used to meet cost sharing or matching requirements of any other federally-financed program in either the current or a prior period.
- Be adequately documented.


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All prices are in All prices are in USD
When the palette is refined, so are your choices.
As part of the 496 Hand Selected C2 Colors, Overcast is a rich, luxurious color. Produced with the highest quality pigments available, Overcast is sure to cover well and look great on whatever surface you decide to paint.


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Forest Investment Zones
Recent changes to forest industries have dramatically impacted forest-reliant communities. Adjustment to the new realities of the forest-based economy is difficult for individual communities acting alone. The Forest Investment Zones seek to ease this difficulty by creating regional networks to connect new value steams, build new organizational and financial capacity, and advocate policy in support of local forest-based development. The Forest Investment Zone program was launched in 2009 as a five-year initiative to test the concept that regional collaboration would increase local, forest-based economic success in distressed forested communities. In March of 2014, this initiative will end its five year funding period. Evaluation of the program will be complete by April 2014 and findings will be publicly reported. It is anticipated that key programs initiated in the three Zone programs will continue beyond the grant period.
In each Zone, the Endowment awarded funds to one partner that in turn established relationships with many other organizations. Each of the three organizations received $2 million from the Endowment over the course of the five-year program.
For additional information on the Forest Zones Initiative, click here.


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Welcome to the 18th day of #LoveBlog! Today's prompt is Past, Present, Future. You can find the rest of this month's prompts at the original post. It's not too late to link up for yesterday's prompt, Role Models.
Howdy, it's Dan behind the keyboard again. You probably remember my PAST post which Brita has conveniently linked for me. If you don't remember it, you really have a poor memory or you haven't read it yet… Either way, I'll wait.
Okay, now that we are all here with the cars of the past out of the way…
Wait, I'm being told the point of #LoveBlog isn't just to post about cars…? So, spoiler alert, I'm not going to make the whole post about cars (but they will most likely make an appearance).
In all seriousness, the post about cars and memories is a pretty good summary of my past as well as the background of my marriage to the wonderful Belle Brita (you know she edits these right?).
The American Dream always starts out with the same story: Boy goes to school, boy falls in love with cars, boy becomes a man, man gets a job and buys a car, man gets married… You get the idea.
So what's the present dream? A white picket fence? 2-1/2 children? Donald Trump not being President?
Sorry, some of those are more realistic than others I suppose (I'll leave which ones are realistic to your own biases).
The present, as it is now, consists of me working on advancing my career while supporting Brita in her writing profession as much as I can (yes, I shamelessly plug myself a lot. Modesty isn't one of my strong suits). Regardless of what the future holds, it's going to take savings and a stable income to make it what we dream.
Yep, I just made a #LoveBlog post about being financially responsible (what were you expecting? Cars?). Sure, money can't buy happiness, nor is being financially responsible stress-free (quite the opposite in fact), but it sure can make you prepared to handle what life throws at you. Sacrificing a bit every day can help you build a buffer to survive so when the fecal matter hits the ventilation you don't have to sacrifice a lot all at once.
Brita and I have been lucky that our parents instilled in us financial sense and made solid investments in us to put us on the right path. Yet even with the advantages provided to us, we aren't guaranteed a ride for life. Maintaining that advantage takes goals, restraint, and hard work. It helps to have a partner keeping you honest and watching your back. And maybe a periodic review with a financial planner for good measure…
Present Financial Choices
So what can you do to set yourself up for financial success? A wise man once told me, "We aren't born knowing this stuff." Finances are ridiculously complicated. Part of being an adult is having to dive into the complicated mess that is the real world of money, contracts, and tax planning that your parents used to do for you as a kid.
Find yourself a good teacher. It could be a family member who has set themselves up well for retirement; it could be a book, a website, or even an actual class. My personal mentor is my dad first and foremost. Looking back at the past (and throwing in another car story), I remember many times being in the car with my dad listening to Clark Howard (another great option for a financial mentor). Yes, even my dad with all the financial knowledge he had (which seemed quadruply impressive when I was a kid) was constantly getting advice on how to "save more, spend less, and avoid getting ripped off."
This is not to discount my mother… In my mind, my dad is the image of long-term goals, retirement investing, and doing taxes. My mom, on the other hand, is the short-term weekly budget lecturing me in the back of my head. She isn't necessarily as successful in my inner thoughts at preventing impulse purchases as my dad is with his retirement saving adages, but she is definitely there.
I remember when I was pretty young and going on a family vacation (did I mention road trip?). I had saved up a whopping $20 to spend on a souvenir on the vacation. And yet I came home with that same $20 because at every gift shop, my mom's voice kept telling me, "That's a waste of money."
Marital Finances
Those voices were fine when I was on my own… Now in the present, I have to keep my parents' voices subdued a bit. My wife definitely has her own voices too, and we ought to listen to them as well. Part of being in a relationship is being partners in investing too. Shared financial priorities are very important to a successful marriage.
Brita is much better than I am at spending savings on memories and mementos… She is also a good limiter to my guilty pleasures (cars, candy, and computers). I've taken the role of doing the research behind major purchases and investments and doing the taxes (you're never quite as libertarian as you are during tax season). I try to save money by doing repairs and maintenance myself rather than hiring it out. We both try to keep each other focused on the small things too: cooking inexpensive, but healthy meals instead of eating out or making unhealthy convenience food, cutting down on expensive alcohol and carbonated beverages, conserving energy at home.
Future Life Dreams
So what is all that saving doing for us?
Preparing for the future!
And who knows what that future holds? Who can know. That's why my personal policy is save as much as you can to feel comfortable, and then save a bit more just in case. I'm the same way with money as I am with time. Borderline excessive contingency. The future will hold things like buying houses, new cars (maybe another Miata?), having kids, raising kids, retiring, medical expenses (oh goodness, are we saving enough?). Money has to be there to get that white picket fence darn it!
The thing with the future though, is that it's always getting closer. The future always arrives before you know it, so best start saving now instead of tomorrow. I'm not going to go into the benefits of compound interest and I'm sure you've heard about nest eggs and to start them sooner rather than later… But seriously, if you've been saving, great! Keep it up!
No Excuses
If you aren't where you want to be, make a plan and don't procrastinate. It's too easy to say that you'll start saving next week, month, or year when [insert expense here] goes away. But there will be another expense to take its place.
I'm not going to say I'm perfect. Here I am at 30, and I'm not where I should be. I don't have life insurance or a will yet, and I had a goal to get those by 30. I said, "it'll be easier after the construction season," then it was "after vacation I'll have more time," "after the holidays things will calm down." It's the same story. If you let excuses stop you, there will always be another excuse.
To summarize, be like Brita. Don't just make a goal–write it down. Put it out there to people who will hold you accountable. It's okay if you don't meet every goal by every deadline, but having the goals and making progress is the ultimate goal. If you track your goals, you can eventually get them checked off the list.
So what do I want with my future? Well Brita willing, I'm going to wrap this up with one last car anecdote and the only TV commercial that almost brought me to tears… Sorry for the shameless Mazda plug, but I can't think of any better representation of Past, Present, and Future.
Meet Your #LoveBlog Hosts!
Twitter // Instagram // Facebook // Pinterest // Tumblr // Google+ // Bloglovin
Brita Long is the pink and sparkly personality behind the Christian feminist lifestyle blog, Belle Brita. While her first love will always be Paris, she lives happily with her husband Daniel Fleck in the Atlanta area.
Bloglovin // Instagram // Twitter // Facebook // Pinterest // Blog
Charlene is a 20-something wife and fur mamma living in Ohio. She uses her blog, Enduring All Things, to inspire young wives to keep God first and their husbands second in everything they do.
Alessia is a historian, social entrepreneur, political junkie and manquée professional comedian. Never to be seen in society without her standard Ray-ban Wayfarers, rose-gold iPhone, and ash-blonde Chelsea blow dry. Still the most (in)eligible Catholic bachelorette, with a love of fine wines, Jane Austen, and all things beautiful. Mistaken by her own mother for Amy Pond from Doctor Who. Blogs about life in London at The Blond Pond.
Enter the #LoveBlog2017 Giveaway!
I am so excited to include a giveaway for this year's #LoveBlog! It started 02/01/2017 and runs through the end of the month. US residents only. I love my international readers, but international giveaways are more difficult to manage legally.
The winner will receive: $35 to Zazzle, $50 to Ankit, $25 to Sebamed, a free Couple Checkup assessment, TRRTLZ bracelets, VDazzled earrings, and $25 to Blush.
I will verify the winning entry myself before emailing the winner during the first week of March. If the winner doesn't respond, I'll start the process over again.
What are you doing now to prepare for the future you want to live?


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Bill Kershner was an inspiration to many pilots, including several of us at AOPA who share their reflections here.
Bill Kershner with Catherine Cavagnaro
(left) and Julie Boatman (right).
We lost Bill Kershner on Monday, January 8, 2007. He touched my life just generally at first, through his Student Pilot's Flight Manual, and then through his Flight Instructor's Manual - the bible of flight instruction, as far as I was concerned, as a new CFI in 1993. The first time I talked with Bill on the phone followed the publication of a review of his book, Logging Flight Time, in Pilot in 2002, and he called to thank me for it, such a gentleman. I grew fond of his expression over the phone during our exchanges that followed, how it complemented and supported his clear and lighthearted writing style. In writing, you can't quite hear his Tennessee accent, carefully crafted over the years - no, not quite. Part of the loss of Bill Kershner is wondering if at some point I'll forget the sound of his voice.
But a friendship at arm's length between us grew into something more last summer. I went down to fly with his aerobatic school partner, Catherine Cavagnaro, and to learn from Bill again. I was going through a rough patch in my flying, and I talked with them both about it. And when I finished my tale, Bill looked me in the eye and told me his own. He told me that I was on the right track, but more than that, with sharing his confidence he let me know that it would all work out all right, that the family of aviators isn't unforgiving, though the laws of physics may be concrete.
No one could illustrate the separate control inputs for a spin condition and its exit quite like Bill - and certainly not in a way that any person on the street could understand. He got down to the nut in his explanations, peppered them with humor, and delivered them in a measured and easy pace. We've lost a communicator that will be hard to match, and a pilot for whom instructing was a passion and a calling. I'm sure he's up there somewhere, already explaining to the angels just why they fly. - Julie K. Boatman
January 16, 2007


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Tuesday, December 16, 2008
I pout at the gray winter rain, at the drip,
drip, drip in the living room, at the cold
wind-whipped drops flung against my west
window. I pout at the yard getting soggier
and boggier and I feel the mold
growing on my winter soul.
I demand water on my own terms! Give me
mist from a breathtaking waterfall to refresh me on a fierce
summer day. I insist on a steamy hot bath with a closed
door and a good book. I need to coast north in the warm
Gulf Stream with Caribbean fishes at my side.
14 comments:
- gautami tripathy said...
It is always a pleasure to read your poetry. Or prose for that matter.
"Give me
mist from a breathtaking waterfall to refresh me on a fierce
summer day"
booking through myth or reality?
- Thu Dec 18, 10:22:00 AM 2008
- Lirone said...
Oh, yes, I can empathise with this!
- Thu Dec 18, 01:47:00 PM 2008
- christine said...
Very tight language. I appreciate very much the sentiments expressed in the poem!
- Thu Dec 18, 01:51:00 PM 2008
- rob kistner said...
"I feel the mold growing on my winter soul"
Living in the Pacific Northwest, I know that feeling far too well. ;)
"Give me mist from a breathtaking waterfall to refresh me on a fierce
summer day."
I love the pace and rhythm of that line. As Gautami astutely noted... wonderful!
- Thu Dec 18, 02:20:00 PM 2008
- sister AE said...
Thanks so much, Gautami, Lirone, Christine, and Rob! I'm delighted you like it.
- Thu Dec 18, 03:50:00 PM 2008
- SweetTalkingGuy said...
I like the soggier and boggier reference!
- Thu Dec 18, 06:42:00 PM 2008
- sister AE said...
Thanks, Andy. That was inspired by the 5 inches of rain we got last Thursday. We didn't get the freezing rain that brought down trees and power lines, but it made me feel moldy anyway!
- Thu Dec 18, 10:16:00 PM 2008
Hello, sister AE!
Wonderful wordplay!
"I pout at the yard getting soggier"
Love it!
I'm new here but so glad I stopped by; your work made my visit a pleasure!
- Fri Dec 19, 07:16:00 PM 2008
- sister AE said...
Thanks, Angie. I'm glad I participated this week. Stop by anytime.
- Fri Dec 19, 07:25:00 PM 2008
- odessa said...
"i demand water on my own terms" - my sentiments exactly. this is such a wonderful poem. i also love the phrase "mold growing on my winter soul".
- Sat Dec 20, 01:00:00 AM 2008
I felt the dampness to the core of my being but was then was soothed by the lovely images in the second verse.
- Sat Dec 20, 05:16:00 AM 2008
- sister AE said...
thanks, odessa. the demanding line - i was pretty pleased with that if i do say so myself.
hello, watermaid. thanks.
- Sat Dec 20, 08:47:00 AM 2008
- "Philo" said...
A really great poem, masterfully done. Water can stand for so many things, can't it?
- Sat Dec 20, 04:17:00 PM 2008
- sister AE said...
Thank you, Philo.
- Sat Dec 20, 04:24:00 PM 2008


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To travel hopefully is a better thing than to arrive, and the true success is to labour.
Robert Louis Stevenson
Victory has a thousand fathers but defeat is an orphan.
John F. Kennedy
He knows not his own strength that hath not met adversity.
Ben Jonson
A man cannot be said to succeed in this life who does not satisfy one friend.
Henry David Thoreau
Don't accept rides from strange men, and remember that all men are strange as hell.
Robin Morgan


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So guess what?? I have now been in three missions (kinda). My first area of virginia beach was split off and turned into chesapeake mission. Then my second area was the richmond mission. And now my third is the brand new addition to the richmond mission, woodbridge. It's the tippy toppy part of the area because it used to be DC South and now they got added into our mission. Crazy huh? So this is how transfer meeting went…
No one knew where they were going, or who they would be with as we all sat there jammed into the chapel. The new mission pres started reading off names ONE BY ONE and said who they would be with, and then everyone watched silently as they came together and hugged and sat down. Of course I'm freaking out because I don't want to have to do that, and I'm just pleading to heaven that I don't trip, and it's taking forever for my name to get called. My two old companions get their new companion called and she takes my seat so I move up a bench. Eventually I remember him saying my name and I stand and see a sister coming towards me that must be my companion. So I frantically make room for her on my little bench and hug her and we sit. Phew. I turn and say "So are you training me?" Back up info: The new mission president made it so that all visa waiters are now trained in their temporarily assigned areas instead of having us wait till our final destination, so I was expecting to be trained this transfer.
Anyway, once I whisper that to my companion, she looks at me all confused and says, "No, you're training ME." waaaahhhhhh :O so I tried to stay calm and collected but I don't think I did a good job. My poor poor companion, getting a trainer that could leave any day on a plane, and one that's never been trained before. But I am doing my best and praying so very hard that I don't say anything too stupid and that I do all that God wants me to do in this new area. It's only through Him that I can do anything, and I just love Him so much it hurts because He never lets me down and is always there to calm my heart and tell me where to go and what to say.
And speaking of that, an update on L. (crazy awesome lady who's had me brushing my hair for the past few months). I heard today that she's stopped progressing… and she won't meet with sweet sister misdom and forsyth anymore… it breaks my heart. Tomorrow is the last day of the bet, but she is no where close to baptism. I'll just keep praying that her heart will change and she will come back.
Sister George is my new companion and she has been out for 6 weeks here in woodbridge so she thankfully knows a lot about the area and what to do. She's actually the designated driver too cause I don't think I'm allowed to drive here… ha. But things are moving along… slower than my last area for sure… but I have a lot of hope for this place and know that miracles are happening and big things are coming. I can feel it 🙂
I love you all and will send pics next week (my camera ran out of batteries just now… mahh.).
Love, Sister Packer
(If anyone would like Logan's new address, let me know!)


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Before You by Lisa Cardiff
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
When you've known a person for so long it's hard to cut strings without the risk of losing everything and that is exactly the position Bre finds herself in with Camden halfway through the book. Unfortunately Cam doesn't consider Bre his first priority.
When the new lead singer comes along he knows better than to mess around with Cam's girlfriend Aubrey, but from the moment he met Bre, he wanted her. Jax doesn't like how Cam takes Aubrey for granted. She's beautiful and anyone would be crazy not to want her.
So why are things so complicated?! Nobody likes to get hurt really?
Before You is the first book in Lisa Cardiffs hot new series and I really liked the three main characters even though Cam was an idiot, in the end it all worked out for the best. I could relate to Bre and I am a sucker for a HEA especially when it involves Jax Carmichael.
Before You Series #2,#3
About the Author
After spending years practicing law and a million other things, Lisa decided to pursue her dream of becoming a writer and she must confess that inventing characters is so much more fun than writing contracts and legal briefs. A native of Colorado, she lives with her husband and three children in Denver. When she isn't managing the chaos of raising three children and owning her own business, she can be found reading or writing a book.


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OSLO, Feb 28 (Reuters) - The Norwegian government should extend most mortgage restrictions imposed early last year, the central bank said on Wednesday.
The particularly restrictive measures imposed for the country's capital should however be removed, it said, in line with a recommendation from the country's Financial Supervisory Authority (FSA).
But while the FSA wanted to tighten banks' current quota of loans that can exceed the formal rules, to eight percent from 10 percent, the central bank said this so-called speed limit seemed appropriate at the current level. (Reporting by Terje Solsvik, editing by Gwladys Fouche)


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If you are here for the Samantha Walker Blog Hop, click here
Creative Memories is currently looking for several designers to provide them with FUN, FRESH, FUNCTIONAL, and INNOVATIVE ideas for placement in our catalogs, online galleries, packaging, and other materials deemed necessary by Creative Memories.
I have had so much fun working with the CM products and the team is just amazing! So...what are you waiting for...go and apply!
You can see full details here!


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War Child BRITs Week 2018
Win one of three pairs of tickets to see Deaf Havana
Union Chapel, London. 23 February 2018
Prize draw closed
Check out the best of what's in Priority right now.
This prize draw gives you the chance to win 1 of 3 pairs of tickets to see Deaf Havana at Union Chapel, London on 23/02/18. War Child BRITs Week, together with O2 present a series of gigs that gives fans the opportunity to see the biggest names in music in intimate venues across London and for the first time since 2015, Manchester while simultaneously raising money and awareness for children whose lives have been torn apart by war. Live music changes lives. Please note that travel and accommodation are not included and are the responsibility of the winner to arrange. For even more chances to win tickets for BRITs WEEK shows, as well as further info about the cause, go to: https://www.britsweekwarchild.co.uk Eligibility Criteria: This prize draw can only be entered by Priority members and O2 account holders aged 18 or over. Entrants must be UK residents. This prize draw is open from 14/02/18 - 18/02/18 (09:59). Winners will be drawn at 10am on 18/02/18. Prize is non-transferable. No money alternative will be offered. The names of all Priority prize draw winners are hosted here: http://www.promowinners.com/o2priority/. These details are updated as quickly as possible once the winners have been confirmed. Good luck.
Terms & Conditions
How to enter: From the Priority App tap the 'Enter Now' offer button and you will be automatically entered into the prize draw. No other methods of entry are accepted. Only one entry per mobile phone. The prize: By entering this prize draw you are in with a chance of winning one of three pairs of tickets to see Deaf Havana at Union Chapel, London on 23/02/18. At least one member of the party must be 18+. Please note that travel and accommodation are not included and are the responsibility of the winner to arrange. Please only accept the prize as a winner if you can realistically attend the event, we can reallocate tickets to other fans if you're unable to attend. Draw date: The draw will take place on 18/02/18 at 10am. Winners will be notified by Promoveritas shortly after that. The prize must be claimed within 24hrs of notification. If the prize isn't claimed another winner will be drawn from all valid entries. The promoter of this prize draw is O2. If you win: Winners will be selected in a random draw and will be contacted via the same phone number you used to enter the prize draw from 18/02/18. If you don't respond within 24hrs of us contacting you we will be deemed not to have accepted the prize and another winner will be drawn. Winners will be contacted by PromoVeritas, a promotion verification service. These terms and entry instructions incorporate, and apply in addition to, the General Terms applying to all Priority Prize Draws (see http://bit.ly/2m77ndv). In the event of a conflict, these terms shall take precedence. This prize draw is governed by English Law and is subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts. If you no longer wish to receive notifications from Priority, you can turn this feature off in your device settings.


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If you're planning a trip to Grand Marais, bring your clubs! While we do not have a golf course in town, there are several fine courses nearby. We also have the Superior Pines Disc Golf Course, newly opened in 2011. This course is located in the School Forest, just three miles east of town. Disc Golf is a family activity and you only need a Frisbee and comfortable walking shoes to give it a try!
Blue Heron Golf Course, Germfask
109 Lustila Rd., Germfask, MI 49836
Phone: (906) 586-3359
This nine-hole course is located in Germfask, just 30 minutes south of Grand Marais. Open Monday - Saturday from May 1 mid-to October, sunup to sundown. Nine holes, 2080 yards, par 32. Golf carts and refreshments available.
Newberry Country Club, Newberry
Corner of M28 & M123, Newberry, MI 49868
Phone: (906) 293-8422
The Newberry Country Club is open to the public and features an 18-hole regulation course and a 12-tee driving range. The course is located in Newberry, one hour southeast of Grand Marais. The 6150-yard, par 71 course has a course rating of 72.9 and a slope rating of 129.
Pictured Rocks Golf Club
E10240 County Road H-58, PO Box 236, Munising, MI 49862
Pro shop: (906) 387-3970
Restaurant/bar: (906) 387-3970
Pictured Rocks Golf Club is located east of Munising, approximately 50 minutes from Grand Marais. You'll find a challenging 18-hole golf course, putting green, driving range, golf cart rental, rental clubs, pro shop, and restaurant/bar. The longest tees offer a 6246-yard course with a rating of 69.7 and a slope of 113.
Grand Marais' newest family activity is Disc Golf! Under the supervision of Brian Prill, the students of Burt Township School built an 18-hole, championship-caliber disc golf course in School Forest, just three miles east of town. The course is open to the public and opened in the summer of 2011. Visit the Superior Pines Disc Golf information at www.grandmaraisschools.org.


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"Chubby cheeks, dimple chin
Rosy lips, teeth within
Curly hair, very fair
Eyes are blue - lovely too.
Teachers pet, is that you?
Yes, Yes, Yes!"
We were all taught this nursery rhyme without considering how discriminatory and inappropriate it was. The only thing it did was give impressionable young minds faulty, problematic ideas about beauty and femininity.
Months after Nike came up its blockbuster advertisement, Da Da Ding, with its superbly catchy tune, Culture Machine's lifestyle channel Blush, along with Dove, have now come up with a video that attempts to question the real meaning of beauty and femininity. The video seems like a promotional campaign for Dove given the end credits mention the brand and its tagline.
The timing of the ad could not have been better - both for us and the brand. With women Olympians like Dipa Karmakar dominating the headlines in India at present, the ad is bound to strike all the right chords. It works wonders for a skin and beauty products brand in its attempt to set itself apart from the clutter of companies selling similar products. And for us, it's refreshing to see sportswomen--who are otherwise not hotly pursued by MNCs like male cricketers are--get their due. One can only hope that the brands don't forget these women after they are done riding the Olympics wave.
The 'Chubby Cheeks' rhyme plays as a teasing, provocative song in the background as the visuals focus on these sportswomen playing and practicing. The fatuous lyrics of the song juxtaposed with these women kicking some serious ass, lays bare how misleading and disturbing, the ideas of beauty we are constantly bombarded with can be.
The video features real-life sportswomen and not actors. There's table tennis player Aditi Sinha, Rutuja Parkar is the gymnast, the wrestlers are Akshita Karkera and Sakshi Shetty, Mrudula Parande is the archer, the shot-put star is Iccha Priti, Amruta Satre is the runner and then there is the Mary Immaculate Girls' High School's hockey team.


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Oxodeora K.D. Hyde & P.F. Cannon, Mycol. Pap. 175: 75 (1999)
Position in classification: Phyllachoraceae, Phyllachorales, Sordariomycetidae, Sordariomycetes, Ascomycota, Fungi
Type species:Oxodeora petrakii (Cif.) K.D. Hyde & P.F. Cannon (1999)
Follow link from Genus to search Index Fungorum
for specific names. Generic names not in current use in the Dictionary
of the Fungi are usually linked to the correct name.
Type species are linked to their entry in Index Fungorum. Please
contact Paul Kirk if you have
any additions or errors to report.
Search Index Nominum Genericorum
back to previous page


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Monday, October 15, 2012
Countdown to a Celebration!
10 comments:
- Helen said...
OUCH!! no wonder you couldn't post... hope Paul is recovering. Take care...
- Monday, October 15, 2012 1:18:00 PM
- Kate said...
Oh i just love this card :) And glad your man is on the mend xx
- Monday, October 15, 2012 1:54:00 PM
- Jingle said...
This is absolutely GORGEOUS!
- Monday, October 15, 2012 2:15:00 PM
- Mona L. Pendleton said...
Simply beautiful Julie!
- Monday, October 15, 2012 4:24:00 PM
- Rachel W K said...
gorgeous card with gorgeous papers! hope hubby is feeling a bit better
-Rachel w k
- Monday, October 15, 2012 5:25:00 PM
- Lindsey said...
Yikes! Glad things weren't any _more_ serious. As for your card... worth the wait! What a beauty.
- Monday, October 15, 2012 5:35:00 PM
- Lisa said...
Awww Julie that must have hurt, I'm glad he's doing well. Prayers ARE answered ;)
Beautiful card, glad you got to share it with us!
- Monday, October 15, 2012 8:19:00 PM
- maria f. said...
Lovely card and I'm glad to hear things have settled down a bit. Gute Besserung for your hubby.
- Tuesday, October 16, 2012 4:58:00 AM
- jordanbev5 said...
So sorry to hear of your husband's accident!! Love the card and especially Want2Scrap's bling and Nestabling!
- Tuesday, October 16, 2012 9:45:00 AM
- Miller said...
Everyone who owns a stock is called a stockholder or shareholder. in on the fears of others. Periodically hold the pan up to your face so you can look for little flakes or nugget. I also have attached a video demo of this guitar. You can invest your money in government or private sector.
- Sunday, February 03, 2013 10:18:00 AM


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Publication Date
The University Statistical Abstract (USA) is a collection of informational reports presented in one single source. Serving as a primary planning source document, the USA contains information spanning many University functions: Students, Employees, Budget, Other Resources.
The function of this document is to serve the wide-spread informational needs associated with Institutional, College, Division and Unit planning, program review and institutional research. Also called University of North Florida University Statistical Abstract.
Suggested Citation
University of North Florida, "University Statistical Abstract 1991" (1991). University Statistical Abstracts. 11.


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Gang takeover causes exodus from terrorized neighborhood in Honduran capital
TEGUCIGALPA (AP) – More than 100 residents of a neighborhood in Honduras' capital grabbed their belongings and fled from their homes following threats from a gang, authorities said Thursday. It was at least the second such exodus this week in the Central American nation.
People in El Hoyo on Tegucigalpa's south side told local television that masked gang members armed with semi-automatic rifles appeared Wednesday night and announced that residents had 24 hours to abandon their homes or face the consequences. They also distributed flyers.
Earlier in the week, residents of a neighborhood in the northern city of San Pedro Sula left their homes after gang threats. Authorities said those people had not returned even though some 300 soldiers have been deployed in the district.
Tegucigalpa police spokesman Selkin Arita said at a news conference that more than 140 people fled El Hoyo. "Gang members have the people of El Hoyo terrified, but we are here to re-establish order," he said.
Army Col. Tito Moreno also tried to reassure residents they would be kept safe. "We urge residents to return to their homes because we have posted police and soldiers to protect their lives and possessions," he said.
About 100 police and soldiers patrolled the neighborhood Thursday.
A young man carrying a mattress on his shoulders who identified himself as Juan Martínez said on local television that the gang members had shouted in the street: "In 24 hours everyone who lives here has to go!"
"If we don't go, they'll kill us," Martínez said.
People loaded beds, refrigerators, televisions and other possessions into an assortment of vehicles Thursday.
"My family doesn't have anywhere to go, but we're going because we're scared we'll lose our lives if we don't," resident Antonia Romero said.
The small neighborhood clinging to a hillside was occupied by squatters about 20 years ago. The Barrio 18 and MS-13 gangs compete for control of the neighborhood, and Barrio 18 members allegedly issued the threat.


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As the year began, the Battle of the Bulge had concluded and the Allies were poised once again to invade the German homeland. The Allies had to contend with a Nazi regime determined to fight until annihilation. Strategy, tactics, and politics had to be worked out among the allies. The war still had to be fought, mile by mile, soldier by soldier, and from the perspective of the combatants and civilians, every day until surrender was dangerous, uncertain, and consequential.
Senior military and political leadership for each of the allies had to contend with winning a military victory and preparing for civilian occupation and control. Political and economic conditions in England, the United States, France, and the Soviet Union were very different and led to complicated agreements, compromises, deceptions, and tensions. The personalities, experiences, and views of the key actors - Roosevelt, Churchill, Stalin, Eisenhower, Montgomery, etc. - were all factors in the eventual victory as were the actions of the ordinary people whose lives and actions shaped the outcome. Historical writing is effective for me when it demonstrates how individuals, under pressure and constraints, exercise leadership, persuasion, compromise, dedication, and hard work to achieve results. Bessel's book does that.
The second half of the year 1945, begins with an utterly defeated Germany occupied by the Allies. Millions of soldiers and civilians have been killed throughout Europe and hundreds of thousands of surviving German soldiers are in POW camps in both the West and the East. The major cities have been destroyed by months of bombardment. Death is present everywhere and corpses are a regular presence. There is no transportation infrastructure. No effective rail communications, no roads, no vehicles, no fuel. There is no communication infrastructure. No electricity, no telephone lines, no postal service. The population is made up of mostly women, children, and elderly. Slave laborers that performed the farming that soldiers couldn't do had been liberated to return to their origins, or not, and agricultural production dropped precipitously. As borders were redrawn, Germany immediately lost much land that had supplied its citizens with food. Germany's industrial capacity had been destroyed and what remained was subject to confiscation and removal to the Soviet Union as war reparations. What would the harvest of 1945 be like? How would people eat, and stay warm in the winter of 1945-46? Who would begin clearing mountains of rubble. Would cities be rebuilt? Would factories begin production of needed goods? How could people be reunited with family? What medical needs could be met and at what cost?
Beginning in May, 1945, the same governments and leaders who had been focused for years on winning a military victory were now faced with the immediate need to take control of this completely defeated and destroyed nation and help it survive and face the future. Even the general shape of that future was yet to be worked out. How an allied force designed to fight and win a war had to turn into an occupying power with the need to keep a nation from starvation and to set the foundations for future economic and political success is the stuff of the second half of Bessel's book.
These historic problems make many of today's problems seem small or at least manageable. It is not that economic recession, energy needs, global warming, or human migrations are easily solved. It it important, however, to remember how in the past, leaders with different outlooks and conflicting interests somehow worked together well enough so that people's lives could be restored, so that they could eat, and begin to work, and begin to rebuild housing, and eventually reenter the international community. Massive population migrations had to be engineered and managed. International financing required risk-taking, sacrifice, and a commitment to basic human values and rights while also looking out for national self-interests. Bessel's book lays out the challenges, identifies the needs, and relates how this one critical keystone year saw the end of a catastrophic war and the beginning of a peace that would eventually be called an economic miracle.
I intended to post this entry earlier, before the earthquake occurred in Haiti. That catastrophe, and the international response, and the historical, humanitarian, and political conversations that are now happening, have made me appreciate even more the importance of reading history. We must inform ourselves and allow ourselves to be inspired by those who preceded us. Others have faced what appeared to be overwhelming challenges. As I follow the news on Haiti, I am encouraged by the response I see reported through the media, and by the coverage of political, diplomatic, and humanitarian efforts, large and small. Germany 1945, is ultimately very respectful of humanity and our capacity to heal, to build and to share, and reading it provides me with the same kind of encouragement and hope for the present and the future.
Note: Richard Bessel dedicates his book To the memory of my father, who was there. My own father was there as well, first as a combat infantryman helping to achieve the military victory that was so necessary and costly, and later as part of the occupying forces who witnessed the consequences of war, of political extremism, of racism and genocide, and contributed to the rebuilding of a nation, an economy, and a society. I thought of my father with every page of this book and missed him intensely as I wished I could share it with him and ask him, once again, what it looked like through his eyes.


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Remember, you have zero cost or obligation until you accept a proposal from any recruiter.
Mike is a down to earth "go getter". Any time I contacted him he would respond quickly, and always knew how to connect the right people with the right resource. I highly recommend Mike as a recruiter and know that he will positively impact any team he will be part of.
Mike is a very passionate technology recruiter on many levels - he is enthusiastic about technology. He takes initiative to learn about the up and coming technologies to keep up with the rapid changing environments and does his diligence to stay ahead of the of what is hot in the market. In addition, he truly cares about his candidates. He understands this hyper-competitive market - he gets how essential it is to make sure candidates are comfortable working with him and he genuinely has there best interest in mind. He is a great resource to candidates by offering suggestions on how to stay competitive and helps them strategize on how to land the right match for them.
In addition, Mike is lightening quick at identifying hard to find talent. He is resourceful and creative, and he loves to win. He has a gift for recruiting.
I have had the pleasure of working with Mr. Mike Ovadia, (Division Director of Recruiting at Robert Half) closely and through my experience it is very apparent that Mike is a true professional whomever he interacts with and an advocate to ever-evolving recruitment profession. He is a true leader and team player with an abundance of industry knowledge and a keen willingness to share his knowledge with those he works with. Mike is very open-minded and his approachable style invigorates the team he works with. Mike continuously shares innovative ideas through his passionate and energetic attitude. It is a great pleasure to be working with him.
I had the pleasure of working along side with Mike on our Recruiting team. He has amazing work ethic and was one of hardest worker on our team! He always has a positive attitude and goes the extra mile to get the job done. I highly recommend Mike to any hiring manager.
Mike has the natural gifts to find technical talent the right job fast! He was responsible for more than 75% of my success in the last three years. I highly recommend him if you want to build your technical team in the least amount of time with the best people.
Mike Ovadia is one of the best recruiters that I have had the pleasure of working with in my career at Robert Half. He is intelligent, driven and willing to challenge the "convential norms".
He pushes his team and his colleagues so that they can place themselves in a positions to understand the client's exact needs and exceed them with the candidates that he brings to the table.
He is a hard worker, pays attention to all of the details and works to have all of the answers before the questions are even asked.
Equipped with the technological savvy and the understanding of the ever evolving technology landscape, Mike can relate to the candidates that he engages and develops relationships that go beyond the 9 to 5. He is a consummate professional and a diligent recruiter.
Was working with Mike quite for a long time. Real pleasure and easy to work with. He made our hiring process simple and well orginized.
I worked with Mike closely for 3 years and he's without a doubt the best technical recruiter I've worked with. He was a very large part of my success at the company we worked at together, and was consistently one of the top performers globally for our company.
Mike has a very large network of talent, and an uncanny instinct to know what a client's looking for, even if they don't.


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The Awesome Beyond Redemption, The Mirror's Truth and Ghosts of Tomorrow is back with a new book and I could not be more excited! I was lucky enough to get a early E-Arc of Swarm and Steel and I can't wait to dive in! I will be reading soon, so stay tuned for a review! Thanks Michael!author of the outstanding books
Swarm and Steel byis due out this August 22, 2017 so keep an eye out, and go buy this book!
Or better yet pre-order NOW!
Swarm and Steel by
To escape the hell she created, a woman must team up with a novice warrior and return to her homeland in this gritty epic fantasy where delusions are literally made real.
Zerfall awakens in an alley, wounded and unable to remember her past. Chased by an assassin out into the endless wastes of the desert, she is caught, disfigured, and left for dead. Her scabbard is empty, but the need for answers—and the pull of her sword—will draw her back to the city-states.
When Jateko, a naïve youth, accidentally kills a member of his own tribe, he finds himself outcast and pursued across the desert for his crimes. Crazed from dehydration, dying of thirst and hunger, he stumbles across Zerfall.
Hunted by assassins and bound by mutual need, both Zerfall and Jeteko will confront the Täuschung, an ancient and deranged religion ruled by a broken fragment of Zerfall's mind. Swarm, the Täuschung hell, seethes with imprisoned souls, but where gods—real or imagined—meddle in the affairs of man, the cost is high.
In Swarm and Steel, the power of belief can manifest and shape reality, and for political and religious leaders, faith becomes a powerful tool. But the insane are capable of twisting reality with their delusions as well, turning increasingly dangerous as their sanity crumbles. It is here that a long prophesied evil will be born, an endless hunger. The All Consuming will rise.
Fire and Flesh: A Manifest Delusions Short Story
Michael R. Fletcher's novel, BEYOND REDEMPTION, a work of dark fantasy and rampant delusion, was published by HARPER Voyager and released June 16th, 2015.
THE MIRROR'S TRUTH, the sequel to BEYOND REDEMPTION, is slated for release in December of 2016.
SWARM AND STEEL, epic dark fantasy, will be published by Talos Publishing (an imprint of Skyhorse/Nightshade Books) in August of 2017.


text: If they're not causing symptoms, inguinal hernias don't necessarily have to be repaired right away, according to a study published in the Jan. 18 issue of the American Medical Association. In this kind of hernia, a portion of the intestine squeezes through the abdominal wall and causes a bulge in the groin. Researchers wanted to see if it's safe to hold off on surgery until symptoms appear. Their study, involving 720 men with hernias, suggests the wait-and-see approach is indeed reasonable. The men with hernias were randomly assigned to either surgery or watchful waiting. After two years, 97 percent of men in both groups said they were satisfied with their decision. Those who deferred surgery did not have more frequent or serious complications than those who had surgery immediately.


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Evidence-Based Diet, Nutrition & Fitness Information, and Random stuff.
Saturday, 19 February 2011
I'm NOT a nutritionist, I'm a very naughty boy!
I'm in an annoyingly (to some people) positive mood at the moment. Anyway, back to the subject.
On Friday 18th February, Jay (of Jay's Kitchen) described me as nutritionist to a customer. I pointed out that I am not, never have been and never will be a nutritionist. I do talk about diet & nutrition rather a lot, though. Sometimes, this can be a total turn-off, so I need to learn to shut my mouth before this happens.
For instance, I was talking to a very overweight & diabetic friend at karaoke on Thursday night after he mentioned that he had had multiple laser treatments for diabetic retinopathy. I pointed out that they can't laser kidneys back together when they fail due to excessively-high blood glucose. He mentioned a pile of daily medications that he had to take.
I mentioned Steve Cooksey and the fact that Steve had gone from fat & diabetic on a pile of daily medications to slim & non-diabetic on zero daily medications, and the fact that I had slimmed down and completely eliminated my glucose intolerance by using Vitamin D3, exercise & a low-carb diet. The 2nd & 3rd items in my list must have gone too far, as he got up to sing and when he finished singing, he sat somewhere else. He hasn't de-friended me on Facebook....yet!
Anyway, here's a link to How It Should Have Ended.
Here's the obligatory picture.
I posted the above picture because a) I used to really enjoy "The Good Life", b) I used to really fancy Felicity Kendall and c) Penelope Keith's character Margo had irony off to a fine art with "Well thank you very much!". Please note:-
In the US, "Thanks a bunch!" means "Thank you very much".
In the UK, "Thanks a bunch!" means what Margo meant.
By the way, I don't do irony. It usually goes right over my head and it doesn't work well in print without smilies. I'm not being ironic with what I just wrote. No, really. I'm not!
5 comments:
- Kateryna said...
Sorry to hear about your friend Nigel. You can try and inform but basically people take responsibility for their action/inaction. It's sad. I've added Steve's blog to my list as it looks great.
- 19 February 2011 at 15:51
- Galina L. said...
Unfortunately, people have a tendency to treat a nutritional advice as an accusation.
I have a lady-friend whose mother is undergoing a chemotherapy for a lung cancer during the last 2.5 years. Now she almost reach the point when her treatment doesn't work . I tried to get my friend interested in learning more about incorporating a low-carb diet into her mom's treatment without any result.Believe me, I am not bombarding others with my message, but once in a while I encounter somebody really sick, like your fried, and then it is difficult to say nothing. People often perceive us who is interested in a nutritional approach to treating health issues as an obsessed nuts.
- 19 February 2011 at 20:25
- chmeee said...
Good to see you back and posting merrily and who cares what anyone slse thinks ! Manic be b*****d. I love that scene from LOB. In a moment of madness, I once sent a link to this scene to my boss - who is French and waa feeling very French, depressed and existential at the time. He loved it, and decided not to fire me. :) It is a classic, and bvery English. Keep 'em coming.
- 19 February 2011 at 21:00
- Nigel Kinbrum said...
Hi everyone,
If I was manic or even hypomanic, I'd get locked up! I'm just in a very good mood at the moment. When stercus accidit, I make the best of it and move on.
I provide information and everyone has a choice. Take it or leave it. My friend started the conversation by mentioning that he'd had some laser eye treatment. I asked him if he'd had a "flap & zap" for correcting blurred vision and he told me that it was for diabetic retinopathy. I will continue to share Steve Cooksey's links with my Facebook friends.
- 19 February 2011 at 23:41
- Steve Cooksey said...
It can be so frustrating to see the damage SAD causes...and not elicit change from people we know.
Thanks for the mention Nigel.
Keep sharing and caring. :)
- 2 March 2011 at 20:51


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Tuesday, September 18, 2007
1990 - Spandau Ballet
15.01.1990, Stadthalle Offenbach: SPANDAU BALLET
Monday, not really warm outside but in here the attitude is hot already. Everybody is waiting for the "best looking band" in all the UK to come on stage.
After the cancellation of their concert originally scheduled for May 1985 it was getting quite quiet for the boys towards the end of the 1980s. It is no wonder that the venue is packed.
8.20p.m. – Spandau Ballet live! An unforgettable "dream and dance" evening is about to unfold. The boys are playing a lot from their current production "Heart like a sky" and it seems that everybody in here has got the album already.
For the next 2 ½ hours we will sing along, clap our hands and dream.
Spandau Ballet is excellent live, Stage- and Light wise the show is superb as well. Their number one hit "True" ends the show and transports people back to the reality of the harsh winter conditions waiting outside.
I would always go back to see them again!
Spandau Ballet ***
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Home Page Redesign in Joomla CMS on localhost by using timeviewer
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SARASOTA, Fla. -- In Dan Connolly's 25-man Opening Day roster breakdown, he said that the battle for the final two bench spots -- between Steve Pearce, Nolan Reimold, Delmon Young and Michael Almanzar -- will be the top roster battle as spring training winds down.
I asked Orioles manager Buck Showalter about Young, the 28-year-old former No. 1 overall pick who has a bona fide track record as a hitter. Young went through a 1-for-19 stretch this spring, but is 6-for-12 recently with two doubles and a homer.
"I never really saw a point where he was struggling, maybe statistically with someone who keeps up with batting averages," Showalter said. "I know one day he hit three balls on the button. It's what we hoped would happen. Him and Stevie. Nolan's last three or four games, he looks more like Nolan. We've got some decisions to make.
"I don't know if anyone has squared the ball up more from start to finish than Pearce," Showalter continued. "All the guys, if they didn't know then, they know now – Stevie does – that you're going to get an opportunity. ... That one is going to be tough. From my perspective, I'll say what's my best 25, and we'll see if it matches up with the right 25, if you know what I mean."
Showalter added that he's noticed more scouts than usual this spring and the number has increased in recent days as the Orioles might have to drop a valuable player.
"A lot of vultures are lurking with our out-of-option guys," he said. "We've got quite an attendance there. I get a list of the scouts every day. If anything it's gotten more. We had 17 here the other day."


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Doors of India
From the intricately decorated doors that line the City Palace in the pink city of Jaipur to the simple painted doors of the Old City framed by the blue city of Jodhpur, the Doors of India series invites you to explore this mysterious and beautiful culture. Captured during a three-week long journey through Northern India in December 2012, the series is rich with colour and texture. The mystery of what lies beyond the doors inspire the viewer to set out and explore the world and to appreciate the beauty of even something as simple as a door.


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The crafty way to see Ireland
A visit to an artisan's working studio is a memorable experience that will enhance any Irish holiday, and new trails and maps make them easy to find
Holidays in Ireland are about resting but they are also about discovering another part of the country from your own. Visiting craftspeople at work in their studios is a memorable thing to do, and the Crafts Council's new online map of Ireland, which highlights crafts studios, makes that a lot easier. You can also download some trails via smartphone apps.
You can now watch a video of a craft worker and then choose to visit their studio. You can also map a route to visit several studios on local craft trails in various counties. Here you will find artisans either working together in a craft village or in their own studios, bound together by geographical location.
Studio door is always open
Not many people welcome you into their working environment in such an open way as these artisans do. Many have shops alongside their studios, but a visit to a working studio gives you first-hand experience of the creative attention to detail drawn from surroundings that are refreshing and inspiring.
Many craftspeople enjoy the self- employed lifestyle; working hard but flexibly and often supporting their families on their incomes. Many have also suffered due to the recession (or due to mass availability of cheap imports during the boom) so welcome new customers.
So, stop a while, appreciate the talents and maybe even buy something that will last and hold the memories of your visit.
Sylvia Thompson is the author of Hands On: The Art of Crafting in Ireland
(Liberties Press, €25)
Sligo trail: 'You can't live in a place like this and not be inspired by nature'
The blacksmith
Michael Budd reckons there are more craftspeople and artists in the northwest of Ireland than anywhere else in the country. He moved here from England with his wife, Tiffany Budd, a self-taught goldsmith, 13 years ago and they haven't looked back.
Although not technically on the Made in Sligo craft trail, Budd's forge in the village of Castlebaldwin is on the N4 for Sligo, so it's a perfect stop-off en route to holidays in this county of lakes, forests, mountains and sea.
"You can't live in a place like this and not be inspired by nature. The dramatic landscape seeps into you. I don't know what I'd do if I had to live in a city again," he says.
Budd converted the disused garage to a forge about a year ago, having previously been based in the Sligo Folk Park in nearby Riverstown.
"I needed a bigger place," he says, taking off his headphones and turning off equipment in the big open space filled with handmade tools, forged gates and decorative sculpted pieces made from mild steel.
"We use mild steel now because wrought iron is so expensive. All my work is traditionally jointed and I prefer hot forging than drilling or using angle-grinders, which I have to use sometimes," he explains.
It takes about two weeks to make a gate using these traditional methods, compared with a day to make a fabricated gate. "It will be 10 times more durable, though, and last about 200 years," says Budd.
"A lot of people say 'you must be the last forge in Ireland', and that might have been the case 20 years ago, but now blacksmithing is a growing craft.
"There are about 150 working forges in Ireland. I get students coming here from the National College of Art and Design, and others who want to do one-to-one workshops in blacksmithing."
While tourists don't generally buy Budd's work – given its size and weight – he does occasionally get commissions from holidaymakers.
"I recently got a commission from someone from London," he says. "I think it's good for visitors here to see craftspeople at work. We all have our part to play in a community."
The couple have recently bought and moved into a restored cottage in the Sligo countryside, and they have long-term plans to hold workshops and to run courses in disused stone buildings next to their house.
Such aspirations are typical of craftspeople, whose homes and workplaces merge to provide incomes that sustain their self-employed lives.
The goldsmith
When we meet, Tiffany Budd still has all her tools and jewellery in boxes. "I'll have a temporary workshop set up in a few weeks and will be ready for visitors to call by appointment," she says.
She is a member of the Made in Sligo craft trail (there are 15 craftspeople on the trail at present), and was previously based in the Roundabout Gallery in nearby Collooney, which recently closed. She makes rings, pendants, cufflinks, earrings and brooches – each of which is a once-off piece.
"My inspiration comes from the geometry and cellular structure of plants. All my pieces tend to have a three-dimensional shape," she explains. "My grandad was an engineer and a painter and he told me not to try to make money from the arts, but I ignored him."
The furniture maker
Fergal Spain is working on a huge dining room table in his workshop at Knocknahur, Co Sligo, when I visit. It is made of American white oak, and has been crafted completely by hand over the course of six to eight weeks – a rare thing in these factory-finished times.
"I treat every piece individually and I go to see all the timber I buy. What's attractive in nature is also what's attractive about something that's handmade. Machines will make things dead straight or dead flat. The important word in that is 'dead'," he says.
Most of Spain's furniture is privately commissioned. He recently won the Shackleton Thomas furniture award at the annual RDS national crafts competition for a beautifully crafted wine rack integrated into a side table.
If you inspect the walnut and zebrano wood piece, you can see the attention to detail. "The variation is what's attractive about handmade furniture, and each piece reveals itself over time," explains Spain.
People who visit his workshop are most interested in the process of making pieces by hand. Spain even makes many of his own tools.
"It's mainly Irish people who visit – people who are interested in serious craft. Quiet elegance is what I am trying to achieve," says Spain, who studied furniture-making and design at Inside Passage School of Fine Cabinetmaking in British Columbia.
On the Made in Sligo craft trail, he welcomes visitors by appointment. "The trail heightens awareness of craft and allows us to generate publicity together. We made a group video of different craftspeople at work, which we wouldn't have been able to make on our own," he says.
Blacksmith Michael Budd works in the Forge, Castlebaldwin, Co Sligo (087-6688400, michaelbudd.ie); visitors welcome. People are welcome to visit the workshops of goldsmith Tiffany Budd (087-6113777, tiffanybudd.com) and Fergal Spain (087-9288968, fergalspain.com) by appointment
Kilkenny trail: 'We won't get rich with this work but we're fine'
Kilkenny is the county we most associate with craft in Ireland. The creative presence of craft makers at work in the Castle Yard studios, opposite Kilkenny Castle, and the sale of Irish craft in Kilkenny Design shops are both a national and international success.
The Kilkenny Craft Trail was one of the first in Ireland, mapping routes to eight craftmakers' studios, from Castlecomer in the north to Thomastown in the south.
This trail has recently morphed into the Made in Kilkenny craft trail, but you'll still see older signs pointing you to studios in places such as Bennetsbridge, where Nicholas Mosse pottery has a well-established presence with a shop, cafe and viewing area to observe potters and decorators at work.
We set out to visit three studios of the 28 on the Made in Kilkenny craft trail to explore the work and energy of new and more established craft workers who have chosen this county of lush undulating pasture land, cut through by the river Nore, as their homes and workplaces.
The glass blower
Our first stop is Jerpoint Glass, near the small village of Stoneyford. Although its entrance is just opposite the luxurious golf and country house hotel at Mount Juliet, the mood could not be more in contrast.
Driving down the avenue, you quickly see how the working environment of Jerpoint Glass is integrated into the family life of the Leadbetters. First you notice the carefully maintained home and garden, and only then do you see the glassblowing studio, the craft shop and gallery. Once inside, you can bear witness to the hot furnace of molten glass, the blowing irons and the ovens where the finished pieces are left to slowly cool.
It's almost 35 years now since Keith and Kathleen Leadbetter set up their glassblowing studio in a Dutch barn at the back of their home. They have seen good times and bad, and changing tastes, but the quality of the functional and decorative glass pieces has an enduring quality.
One of the couple's four adult children, Rory Leadbetter, has mastered the craft of hot glass-blowing. It's a magical experience to see how he and co-worker James Long turn a blob of glass into a jug with pouring spout and handle in just minutes. "It's all about balance and timing and not letting the glass cool down too much," says Kathleen.
Jerpoint Glass is renowned for high-quality glasses, vases, jugs and candlesticks, as well as large decorative bowls, paperweights and perfume bottles. Coloured glass is now much more in demand than the classical clear glass that originally put Jerpoint on the map 30 years ago.
"We find that the children of people who bought Jerpoint Glass years ago are now coming back to buy it," says Kathleen.
The potter
Thomastown is, like Kilkenny city, synonymous with craft. Grennan Mill Craft School and the Craft Council's Pottery Skills courses have been attracting students to the small town for more than 20 years. Some never leave, which gives the place a more bohemian air than might be expected in this part of Ireland.
When Karen Morgan set up her studio in a former haberdashery shop on Market Street three years ago, people said she was crazy.
The award-winning ceramic artist from Limerick says: "We all started work in the recession. We don't ask for much. We work hard and I've been surviving making pots since I left college in 2006."
Morgan's fine porcelain tableware in pale blues and creams has a subtle flowing form that works in both contemporary and period-style dining rooms.
Earlier this summer, she opened up her exhibition space to create a Makers' Market, where the work of other local craft makers is for sale alongside her ceramics. Now visitors can see a wide range of pottery, jewellery, furniture, leatherware and prints. A group of potters also runs children's workshops behind the exhibition area.
Morgan enjoys mixing the retail work with making pieces. "There are four of us who share looking after the shop. Thomastown is a very special place. It's a hive of music, arts and craft, and people don't really get to see how much goes on here," she says.
There are plans to turn the former courthouse into an arts centre. "It's mainly Irish people who come here but we'd like to encourage foreign tourists too – to offer pottery or glass-blowing workshops – but we really need a boutique hotel or luxury hostel for people to stay in," she says.
The basket maker
Arriving at Heike Kahle and Klaus Hartmann's basket-making and pottery studios in Baurnafea is a good demonstration of how resourceful people can create comfortable lifestyles almost anywhere. Their home and studios are well off the beaten track of north Kilkenny.
However, like many other craftspeople, their home and work lives blend together much like the buildings on their rural plot of land – their house, their beautiful garden and small willow plantation, their interlinked studios and their on-site craft shop.
Originally from east Germany, Kahle and Hartmann came to Ireland 20 years ago to work as "wwoofers" (volunteers through World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms, working in exchange for board and lodgings, wwoofinternational.org) and never left.
"I think it was because the Wicklow farmer Denis Healy showed us Ireland from a different angle than a tourist's one. We didn't feel like we had much of a future in Germany at the time. Klaus – my boyfriend then and husband now – was a nurse and I was a biologist.
"We went to work in a Camphill Community [where workers and people with disabilities live and work together] and opportunities came up to learn basketry and pottery, which we both took."
Looking back now, having raised their two teenage sons in Ireland, Kahle says their crafts allowed them to completely share work and home life. "I teach basketry night and day courses and Klaus works part-time with Castle Arch pottery in Kilkenny city. It was a huge advantage that both of us were flexible. We won't get rich with this work but we're fine," she adds.
As she shows me around the orderly pottery studio – with both a gas-fired kiln and a timber-fuelled one – and her airy basket weaving workshop, the impression is of life lived apart from the technologically driven age. Even the baskets themselves – different ones for beach combing, picking berries, drying herbs, collecting mushrooms, eggs and cut garden flowers – remind one of a softer pace of life.
"I love the fact that what I do has a low impact on the environment," she says. "I grow and harvest my own willow without chemicals or toxic dyes. I work with simple hand tools that don't need electricity and what I make will eventually revert back to nature."
Madeinkilkenny.ie. Jerpoint Glass, Stoneyford, Co Kilkenny, jerpointglass.com, 056-7724350, open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm; Sun noon-5pm. Karen Morgan, Market Street, Thomastown, Co Kilkenny, 086-1663691, open Mon-Sat 10am-5.30pm. Baurnafea craft workshop, Baurnafea, Co Kilkenny, 059-9726947, visits by appointment
Heike Kahle's baskets are on show at the Grennan Mill Craft School exhibition in Thomastown, Co Kilkenny, tomorrow until August 18, 10am-6pm daily. Jerpoint Glass work will feature in the Made in Kilkenny Connection Made in Butler House, Kilkenny, tomorrow until August 18, 10am-6pm daily. Karen Morgan's Makers Market exhibition and workshop


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So I have been absent for a few weeks from the blog. Well, at least I didn't abandon you all like we did to the moon. Thanks to China, after 37 years we have finally put another craft on the surface of the moon. The Chang'e-3 lander contained a rover called Yutu, or Jade Rabbit in Chinese. After a landing on Saturday everything seems to be go for the little rover.
The rover has a twofold mission; to explore the landing area, the dark lava plains of Bay of Rainbows in the north of Mare Ibrium, as well as deploying a telescope on the surface. The Bay of Rainbows has piqued the interests of the China National Space Agency due to its geological features. Investigation of the lava plains will lead to greater insights into the history of the moon, from when there was volcanic activity on the surface. These lava flows are presumed to have left behind lava tubes, as occurs in lava flows on Earth. Lava tubes are formed by hotter flowing lava accumulating in channels that run through cooled lava. These tunnels can be small, about 100 mm diameter, up to very large tunnels several metres in diameter. I recently visited one at Mount Kilauea, Hawaii that was large enough to take a leisurely stroll through.
These structures under the lunar surface would be perfect for future human settlement as they will easily convert to a sealed environment, with the benefit of having radiation deflecting rock above. The lack of atmosphere on the moon allows for all radiation from the sun to contact the surface; a very dangerous long-term environment for any life. The importance of finding and exploring these structures is important to future space efforts.
To aid in this underground investigation, the rover carries a ground penetrating radar system, estimated to be able to detect structural changes down to about 150m below the lunar surface. The rover also carries a scoop with a spectrometer to analyse lunar regolith samples.
The new rover is part of the beginning of China's space program. Previously two orbiters have been successfully launched by the program, and there are plans for many more including a mission to return rock and regolith samples back to Earth in 2017. With South Korea and other countries also initiating space programs in the last year, it is definitely an exciting time for humanity. The collaborative efforts of space exploration are proving to be beyond politics. It's time to be optimistic about our futures.


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- The Environmental Protection Agency has labeled seven of the top 15 pesticides used in U.S. cotton production as "possible," "likely," "probable," or "known" human carcinogens. The World Health Organization considers the insecticides Aldicarb, parathion, and methamidopho to be the most acutely hazardous insecticides to human health – the three also rank in the top ten most commonly used in cotton production.
- It takes almost a third of a pound of synthetic fertilizers to grow enough cotton to produce a single t-shirt. Nitrogen synthetic fertilizers are a major factor in increasing the greenhouse gas N2O. N2O is 300 times more potent than CO2.
- Many pesticide residues have been detected in cottonseed hull – a secondary crop (i.e., the unusable leftover from the cotton plant) sold as a food product. As much as 65% of cotton production ends up in our food chain, either directly through cottonseed oil or indirectly through the milk and meat of animals given feed that contains cotton seed.
- Cotton production uses massive amounts of water. It takes about 1,800 gallons of water to grow enough cotton to produce one pair of jeans.
- Ninety-nine percent of cotton farmers in the world live in developing countries, leaving the poorest and most disenfranchised among us to bear the brunt of cotton productions' negative health and environmental impact.
Organic cotton production, on the other hand, avoids the toxic chemicals that are so harmful to human health and the environment. By buying products made of organic cotton you support sustainable farming practices and humane treatment of workers and help keep harmful chemicals out of the environment and our food supply.
Organic cotton production still accounts for less than 1% of global cotton production, but it has seen significant growth in the past few years as more companies have started to offer organic cotton products. Consumers, with the power of the purse, can continue to drive that change to healthier production practices. Yes, organic cotton products are often more expensive than those made of conventional cotton, but when you consider the impact on human and environmental health it is certainly a justifiable expense. Plus, the more we support organic cotton, the more products will become available and the lower prices will drop.
You don't have to run out and replace all your cotton clothing and linens, but next time you do need something new consider the organic option. With more companies like Wal-Mart, Target, K-Mart, Pantagonia, H&M, and Banana Republic offering organic cotton products you now have more choices than ever.