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The Mending, by R.B. Scott
A Synopsis
Relationships, families in particular, are always dizzying studies in contrasts and contradictions as Benjamin Adams Hutchinson Pratt, the man who remembers everything too well, comes to understand. Long before he purposefully distanced himself from his devout Mormon family and culture, this first born son with the heirloom name, sensed he was the least loved, the most neglected of the four Pratt children. His assumptions were neither wholly wrong nor right. Yet, these half-truths (or whole-lies) are have defined Ben-Adams' perception of self, home, family, and faith.
A portentous high school reunion compels him, bit by bit, surprise by surprise, to come to terms with his heritage and birthright, and the land he abandoned for freedoms and energy of New York City and The East. Ben's almost accidental introspection, aided and sometimes abetted by his wife Annebury, compels him to reassess practically everything he ever believed about himself, or wondered about his father and family. It leads to the reassessment of of long forgotten or ignored friends and enemies. And, it drives him to adjust his perspectives of the Mormon culture, the people and events that touched and, perhaps, shaped his life in ways he did not understand or appreciate fully at the time.
First Readers' Comments about
The Mending
"With uncommon frankness and an easy riveting style, Scott plumbs the depths of life and religion generally, particularly the inscrutable culture of Mormonism. His language is edgy, evocative, humorous and compassionate. Without preaching, the compelling story reminds that all humankind benefits when we care and pull for one another."
~ Carol Lynn Pearson | Author of Goodbye, I Love You and No More Goodbyes
"R.B. Scott's characters in "The Mending" are deeply drawn, intensely interesting and complicated. His writing style is very free-flowing, patterned like memories occur. Each one hitches a ride on the one before it, which makes total sense in a novel about a man (Benjamin Adams Pratt) who never forgets anything as he attempts to straddle the demanding and inscrutable religion and culture of Mormonism and the electrifying real-world he discovered in New York City and Boston."
~ Thomas Duncan | Actor and Playwright of The Remarkable Parley P!
"Unfolding like a memoir, The Mending wrests memories into the present day as it turns upside down concepts of personal responsibility, friendship, morality, empathy and caring."
~ Mitch Mayne | Contributor to The Huffington Post
"The Mending is poignant, funny, riotous, at times tragic, lovely, and transcendent. With candor and in an enjoyable, redolent style, Scott tests the meaning of life and love as he explores the eccentricities of the Mormon culture, dogma, tensions, and its people. The questions posed are those posed by religion, by life, religious or not. Like John Irving, Phillip Roth, and even Walker Percy, Scott lets us feel the poignancy and value of life where occasionally humor, tragedy, and hallowed moments coincide, helping us realize the joy that can fill our mortal bye. We see how compassion, love, kindness, caring and being one with the needs of our brothers and sisters, in unexpected ways and moments, make us human and good. No preaching, here, but this riveting yarn with unexpected moments of quandary teaches more gospel than most preachers. Self-righteous judgment is put in its place – the last shall be first and the first shall be last; he that will lose his life for my sake shall save it."
~ Christopher Blakesley | Professor Emeritus, Law Center, Louisiana State University
"Scott does an amazing thing: while introducing [Ben] Pratt as a pretentious, self-absorbed curmudgeon that readers may dislike initially, he masterfully allows Pratt's savvy and adoring wife, observant family members and friends, to adjust misconceptions and transform him into an accommodating and kind, if surprisingly complicated and compromised human being."
~ Jim Jansen | Actor, Los Angeles


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Ongoing travel stories have made me feel like I only write in past tense. I need a break! How about some around the house stuff?
Fall is kicking in. The leaves are turning, the evenings crisp, and Todd and I are sorting things to get ready to spend more time indoors. Our home is over a century old this year and needs ongoing renovations like most old homes do. It's been a while since we've been able to do anything cosmetic and just for fun. Our last budget busters included roofing, new soffits and downspouts. Ah, the joys of home ownership.
A couple weekends ago we were able to go through a whole pile of stuff we've been collecting ever since we moved into this place so many years ago. My inlaws helped me sort and catalog the whole lot before Todd sold most of it in online classifieds and we donated the rest. After that, our upstairs sunroom turned back into an actual wardrobe room rather than a storage closet that just made me depressed every time I looked at it. This room is right off of our master bedroom and used to serve as what was called a "sleeping porch". Sleeping porches were intended to provide relief from hot summer nights back when the house was built in 1914 and air conditioning meant a fan with a bucket of ice in front of it. The wardrobe itself spans the entire back of the room. My dad built it for me years ago but it never was completely finished before the room got re-designated as a catch-all storage dump. Now with a fresh coat of paint to hide some weird stencilling I thought was cool (it was starfish, ridiculous!) and new apple wood laminate flooring, I'm pleased to say it's fully functional. I won't pretend that Todd and I are super DIYers. Todd's dad is an awesome painter and handyman and has done so much to our house to make it feel comfortable, it's been a huge blessing. I think this particular room turned out fantastic. The light in here is so great, it just cheers me up to chill and play guitar or enjoy a glass of wine and a book. The kids aren't used to the room actually being useable so most of the time, they don't even think to come in there to find me. Haha, brilliant!
My dad did a beautiful job making the cabinet look like it was always there. It offers loads of storage, which in an old home is hard to come by. I love it!
Finally a place to keep my loads of thrifted costume jewelry. I'm on the hunt for some creative storage ideas to hang on the walls. I also ordered a print of a photo I took in Big Sur to hang somewhere in the room. Those sea blues just radiate serenity.
The screen printed, felt, log pillow was an Etsy purchase from somewhere around 2008. I found it in the back of the closet covered in cobwebs. Nothing a little vacuum can fix, I hope!!! The pendant light is an antique school light from the Old House Revival Company in Winnipeg. Great patina on the canopy!
I bought this dresser at auction about 10 years ago for $200. It has very unique scalloped joints that mark it as a European piece. I still enjoy it even though I'm usually more attracted to midcentury furniture and 70's handcrafted pieces. I think it's easier to really mix the eras together in an old home.
Another reclaimed space in our home has been our front sunroom. Last year we made an effort to create storage for the kids toys using two ikea toy boxes and a butcherblock countertop. That ikea hack really solved a lot of our clutter issues and this year I've been able to build on that. I found a very simple wood futon on kijiji to put on the opposite side of the porch and it's been the perfect addition. I clocked in a lot of hours in this room this summer, soaking up the natural light and playing the guitar. Eve and Luke still love the hanging basket chair (also a kijiji purchase from a few years ago). It's starting to get a bit battered since the caning is old and brittle. A project for next year I suppose.
And while I'm at it I'll mention that Luke has been working real hard at skateboarding. We sent him to skateboard camp in the summer and it really boosted his confidence. A few weeks ago his skateboard was stolen out of our car and he was heartbroken. Todd picked things up and upgraded Lukes board. I wasn't sure if it was worth the extra expense but the difference was noticeable right away. I'm so proud of him and how dedicated he is to going to the skatepark every day. That kid is growing up just right, I tell ya.
Next up for us is hopefully a renovation of our main staircase and banister. It's been a long time coming and will really upgrade the look of our entryway. It feels good to be getting things done around here again!

subset: commoncrawl


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Three Minute Tales
Three Minute Tales
Stories from Around the World
by Margaret Read MacDonald
Grouped conveniently into 12 sections like Tales for the Young Listener, Riddle Tales, Humorous Tales, Scary Tales, Stories to Think About, and so on, the book has about 80 short tales that can be told in approximately 3 minutes, as a filler, or can be explored and expanded by the storyteller as needed.
The book is written with the storyteller in mind - providing suggestions for the beginner to hone their skills. The stories are drawn from various sources and the author cites how she came to learn about them as well.
The book made a wonderful bedtime reading for the resident second grader. Although quite a few stories are familiar, there are some quite unusual ones as well. Drawn from many cultures from around the world, the book is a treasure for parents who like to have a few stories handy to keeping the young ones entertained on long drives or on family strolls...
Back of the book lists More Short Tales for Telling.
[image source: MRM site]
Labels: ages 6-9, all ages, books, chapterbooks, folktale


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Ferrari Shows it has Environmental Side
by KBB.com Editors | January 29, 2008 2:02 PM
When you contemplate hotbeds of the "green" movement, it is unlikely that your mind will immediately conjure up pictures of Formula One racetracks. But, unbeknownst to many, F1 racing fuel is some five-percent renewable ethanol, and the ultra-performance Ferrari brand is using that as a jumping-off point to tout its new, experimental F430 Spider recalibrated and retuned to operate on an 85-percent ethanol, 15-percent gasoline mixture. Now that's something that'll keep 'em happy down on the farm.


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Scar Revision in Minneapolis-St. Paul
What is Scar Revision?
Scar revision surgery is done to lessen the appearance of a scar and to help it to better blend into the surrounding skin. Scars are the result of a wound that has healed, and are the unavoidable result of injury or surgery. Scars can appear raised or recessed, or even appear in different colors. Scar revisions surgery can help to diminish the appearance of an unsightly scar.
Save $25 On Your Consultation!
Cost of Scar Revision
$500 and up
This includes your surgical fee and follow-up visits with Dr. Rocheford. This estimate includes the facility fee and anesthesia costs and may differ depending on your individual situation. It does not include the cost of your pre-operative physical, medications, or lab tests. Dr. Rocheford charges a $100 fee for consultations, which is deducted from the price of your surgery or procedure.
Who is a Good Candidate for Scar Revision?
Patients who are unhappy with the appearance of a scar anywhere on their body can often benefit from this surgery. Ideal candidates will be physically healthy, non-smokers. It is important that patients do not have active acne or skin diseases in the treatment area.
Dr. Rocheford is a quality physician with superior doctor/patient interaction skills. She makes you feel comfortable from the initial consultation all the way through the follow-up. She is also a highly skilled surgeon. I was more than pleased with the procedure she performed for me. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking into cosmetic surgery."
Read More Stories
The Scar Revision Procedure
The technique used to revise a scar will depend on the scar's severity, type, size, and location. Some deeper scars will require surgical revision. Dr. Rocheford will remove your old scar and create a smaller, more discreet looking scar in its place. Sutures will be used to close any incisions.
Scar Revision Recovery
Following scar revision surgery, patients may experience discomfort, bruising, and swelling., which can be controlled with pain medication. Patients can often return to work within one to two days. Patients should avoid taking baths when sutures are in place, though showering is permitted after 48 hours.
If you are interested in scar revision surgery, contact Dr. Rochedord today at her plastic surgery offices, serving the Twin Cities Metro area including St. Paul, Minneapolis, Woodbury and beyond. Simply request a consultation online or call Rocheford Plastic Surgery at 651-968-1294 today to schedule your appointment.


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3 Reasons Buffett Should Buy Markel
Shortly after Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffett spent $12 billion in cash last month to acquire 50% of H.J. Heinz , he told the world he was ready for more.
Of course, there's certainly reason to believe the man given his past acquisition record; he spent $46.3 billion over the past seven years for Berkshire's stakes in Iscar, Marmon, Burlington Northern, and Lubrizol.
With that in mind, I noted recently that it might be a good idea for Buffett to shell out some dough to acquire a much smaller financial holding company like Markel .
Source: AP.
Today, I'd like to spend a little more time exploring that thought, so here are three big reasons Markel could be a great fit with Berkshire.
Markel sports a deep bench of management including CEO Alan Kirshner as well as president, CIO, and renowned value investor Tom Gayner. I've spent a little time analyzing their words over the last couple months, so I'll reference you to those previous articles (see here and here) to get an idea of just how effectively they are running their business.
With this in mind, if Berkshire were to purchase Markel with its autonomous leadership team, we could rest assured Buffett would have no problem letting them continue doing what they do best, especially considering what he wrote in his 2009 letter to Berkshire shareholders:
We tend to let our many subsidiaries operate on their own, without our supervising and monitoring them to any degree...Most of our managers, however, use the independence we grant them magnificently, rewarding our confidence by maintaining an owner oriented-attitude that is invaluable and too seldom found in huge organizations.
Additionally, Buffett later went on to shun the inefficiencies of "a stifling bureaucracy" -- another stance with which (as I noted back in February) Markel's Kirshner wholeheartedly agrees.
The best things in life are free
Like Berkshire, Markel also operates a number of insurance subsidiaries, but instead with its current focus primarily resting on traditionally difficult-to-insure niche markets that range from specialty schools to museums, sports leagues, horses, health clubs, boats, and event cancellation (to name just a few).
In addition, last December, Markel announced its largest acquisition to date in buying rival insurer Alterra , which greatly expands its insurance and reinsurance operations.
So how can this benefit the Oracle of Omaha aside from simply generating additional underwriting profits?
Like Berkshire with Buffett, Markel relies on Gayner's investing prowess to make the most of its shareholder equity. The big difference, however, is that Berkshire's massive balance sheet allows Buffett to also invest its insurance float, which gave him more than $73 billion in free money to work with in 2012.
While the added capital from the Alterra deal could very well give Markel the flexibility to eventually do the same on its own going forward, to be able to invest Markel's shareholder equity and insurance float would be icing on the cake for Buffett and Berkshire.
Investing in the little guy
Sure, Buffett has spent a ton of money buying massive businesses in the past decade, but last year alone, he also forked out $2.3 billion on smaller bolt-on acquisitions. Given Markel's current market capitalization of just $5 billion, it should come as no surprise that Gayner, who is also president of Markel Ventures, is well versed in pursuing exactly the types of small acquisitions for which Buffett is so fond.
In fact, according to the Markel Ventures' website, they look for:
- Profitable businesses with good returns on capital.
- Talented management teams and a culture of integrity.
- Reinvestment opportunities and capital discipline.
- Fair prices.
What's more, Gayner prefers to use little or no debt with Markel's acquisitions, maintaining a stated long-term goal of building "a great company comprised of solid businesses."
Foolish final thoughts
All things considered, it's no wonder Markel is often touted as a miniature version of Berkshire Hathaway. In any case, given Markel's superior management team, insurance operations, and demonstrated knack for growing the business through small acquisitions, don't be surprised if Buffett makes a play to absorb the company to the long-term benefit of Berkshire shareholders.
More expert advice from The Motley Fool
Thanks to the savvy of investing legend Warren Buffett, Berkshire Hathaway's book value per share has grown a mind-blowing 586,817% over the past 48 years. But with Buffett aging and Berkshire rapidly evolving, is this insurance conglomerate still a buy today? In The Motley Fool's premium report on the company, Berkshire expert Joe Magyer provides investors with key reasons to buy as well as important risks to watch out for. Click here now for instant access to Joe's take on Berkshire!
The article 3 Reasons Buffett Should Buy Markel originally appeared on Fool.com.Fool contributor Steve Symington owns shares of Markel. The Motley Fool recommends Berkshire Hathaway, H.J. Heinz Company, and Markel. The Motley Fool owns shares of Berkshire Hathaway and Markel. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Copyright © 1995 - 2013 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.


text: The first large-scale space mission to be fully planned and operated by a university's academic department has taken some final steps toward its planned February 1999 launch. The Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer was shipped in August from Johns Hopkins University's Applied Physics Laboratory to NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md., for testing. The university's Center for Astrophysical Sciences, which designed and developed the satellite, will take control of it after launch and manage it throughout the expected three-year mission. In low Earth orbit, the satellite will investigate the galaxy in the far-UV region of about 90 to 120 nm, uncovering secrets of galaxy evolution and star formation. The instrument can view a part of the spectrum unseen by the Hubble Space Telescope or x-ray telescopes, and has a much higher resolution and sensitivity than previous far-UV instruments. Some essential atoms and molecules are best seen in the far-UV, according to Warren Moos, professor of physics and astronomy at Johns Hopkins and principal investigator for the mission. For example, the instrument will measure the concentration of deuterium -- a fossil nucleus left over from the Big Bang -- to see how much has been destroyed by stellar processes. The satellite also will be extremely sensitive to molecular hydrogen, one of the basic materials out of which stars are formed. And it will look at hot ionized oxygen caused by supernovas. "This spectral region permits us to see the motion of hot gas at many hundreds of thousands of degrees both in the disc of the galaxy and in the halo of the galaxy," Moos said. Extreme sensitivity The instrument consists of four aligned telescopes. Light from the stars is focused by four curved mirrors onto four spherical, aberration-corrected holographic diffraction gratings, then recorded by two delay-line microchannel plate detectors. Two of the optical channels are coated with lithium fluoride and cover 100 to 120 nm, and the other two are coated with silicon carbide (SiC) and cover 90 to 110 nm. The instrument is at least 10,000 times more sensitive than Copernicus, which observed far-UV light during the 1970s. Playing a large part in this sensitivity, Moos said, is the 180-mm coverage along the spectrum of the microchannel plate detectors, developed by the University of California at Berkeley. "As detector technology goes, when you realize that you're reading out a pixel every 6 µm, that's a very large and complex detector," he said. Also, Copernicus could look at only one wavelength at a time, Moos said, and this latest instrument will look at all the wavelengths at once. The two SiC-coated telescopes also play a big role. "Copernicus was very sensitive down to about 1000 Å, but in fact for the transitions of deuterium we're interested in, most transitions fall below 1000 Å," he said. The satellite, put together at Johns Hopkins, includes optics made by several international corporate and academic entities. The approximately 30 x 30-cm holographic gratings were developed by the Laboratoire d'Astronomie Spatiale in Marseilles, France; the telescope mirrors were made by Tinsley Laboratories Inc. in Richmond, Calif.; the fine-error sensor, a charge-coupled device camera that helps point the instrument, was made by Canada's ComDev in Cambridge, Ontario, and provided by the Canadian Space Agency; and the University of Colorado in Boulder aligned the spectrographs.


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These are not my favorite ships (although some of my favs did make the list), these are the ships that I think have had the most impact this year. These ships either have super active fandoms, win all the polls, are the most talked or simply have the most potential. That said, I'm not an impartial observer and I don't pretend to be – this list comes from my own observations and it's the best that I can come up with when I have a killer hangover.
10: Murora – Mulan and Aurora (Once Upon a Time)
There are a bunch of reasons why femslash is not as popular as slash and one of the main ones is that the powers-that-be just don't give us the same kinds of epic friendships that are so prevalent for male characters. Therefore when it does happen it's something to talk about. Once Upon a Time is full of amazing femslash ships (it's a show about magical lesbians) and while all the ships are pretty amazing (shout out to Swan Queen) there is just something about the relationship between Aurora and Mulan that rises above the rest. It's probably because their relationship is seeping from the realms of subtext into actual text.
All right, so the chances of this couple actually becoming canon is pretty slim but I'm running out of reasons why they shouldn't. Whatever happens I'm excited to see how this ship fairs in 2013 because I have a feeling it's only going to get bigger and bigger.
9: Caskett – Castle and Beckett (Castle)
I only started watching this show recently and I'm still not completely caught up but you don't have to be part of this fandom to know that the Caskett shippers are a passionate bunch. While it's not unheard of that people will ship these kinds of buddy-cop romantic pairings, this genre is not generally as active within the world of Internet fandom. Not so for the Caskett shippers because they are just as crazy as any slash or femslash pairing you will find around. It's been a good year for this couple because they finally sealed the deal… in the biblical sense and while the drama is far from over this is pretty much the moment that all shippers dream off.
The shippers also showed their support a couple of months ago when they got Caskett into the Hypable Battleships poll even though Castle was not one of the fandom's the website currently covered. Now that's the kind of passion and involvement that makes me love shippers.
8: Lizzie and Darcy (The Lizzie Bennet Diaries)
We all know how this story goes, or at least I hope you know where it goes, so it says something about this modern adaptation that it has fans jumping up and down praying that these two hopeless kids can get it together (don't believe me then check the comments on youtube begging for news about Darcy). I'm pretty hard to please as far as modern adaptations of my favourites goes… that's mainly because most of the time they suck. This is definitely not the case with The Lizzie Bennet Diaries, which has almost surpassed the BBC miniseries as my favourite Pride and Prejudice adaptation. Considering it's a web series, it's even more astonishing.
Seriously though, if you're not watching The Lizzie Bennet Diaries then you're wrong. Join the rest of us that are getting all giddy for one of the greatest romances of all time all over again. Watch it here.
7: Faberry – Quinn and Rachel (Glee)
These lady-loving songstresses started out the year well, the second half of season 3 had a number of fantastic moments for these two… that's kind of cancelled out by the fact that we have yet to see them interact this season but in spite of this set back this ship is still going strong. Back in February Faberry took the top honours in EOnline's TV's Top Couples Tournament against popular slash ship Destiel (Dean/Castiel). They did it again for AfterEllen's Femslash Maddness and they even managed to defeat the powerhouse that is Sterek in the Femslash/Slash Face-Off.
Faberry is an amazing ship with a talented and active fanbase (although things have slowed a bit this season), it's also one of the most popular ships in the Glee fandom, something that doesn't usually happen with femslash ships. Faberry might not have had the best year in canon but their love will live on in fanon forever.
6: Delena – Damon and Elena (The Vampire Diaries)
Don't shoot me Stelena fans, you had 2 seasons of coupledom, but let's face it, it's Delena's turn. The love triangle at the heart of The Vampire Diaries has been the source of many a ship war since the show began but up until this year it was really all about Stefan and Elena. Sure Damon and Elena had a bunch of URST and a few flirty moments but Stefan and Elena were together and it didn't look like that was going to change any time soon. That all changed this year – with a number of Delana kisses and even some sexy times. Of course it's not happily ever after for the couple but things are really starting to heat up.
You will probably find this couple on pretty much every list of the biggest couples of 2012… and that's because everyone has been waiting for them to get it on forever (even the Stelena shippers expected it to happen). That's why they make the list this year, although I'm pretty sure the shippers luck is about to run out.
5: Klaine – Kurt and Blaine (Glee)
Another ship that has had a bit of a rocky year really, it's upsetting because it started out so well. At the beginning of the year Klaine were one of the power couples on Glee and in shipping in general. But when Glee returned for Season 3 it was less happiness and more angst. That doesn't stop the shippers though because those Klainers know how to fight for what they want. Say what you want about this couple but the fans that love them are one of the most active fandoms around.
This year they fought for the release of a cut Klaine scene involving a certain Christmas presents… Dubbed The Box Scene Project – this campaign is one of the most successful fan campaigns in recent years. Not only did they get what they wanted but they raised a tone of cash for charity as well. So while it's been a rocky, and emotional year for Klaine fans I have faith that they will make it through this turbulent time only to emerge next year bigger and more passionate than ever.
4: Clintasha – Hawkeye and Black Widow (The Avengers)
Of all the ships to come out of my favourite film of the year (The Avengers of course) I doubt anyone that knows me would have expected me to include this couple on my list. Surely Steve and Tony should be up here, but the thing is, while I love me some IronShield my love for them comes mostly from the comic books not the film. There is no doubt in my mind that the big ship to come out of this film comes from the sexual tension between Hawkeye and the Black Widow. This is definitely not my favourite Marvel ship but this definitely one of my favourite new fandoms of the year.
These fans are fun and creative and just super excited about this ship, which is pretty special seeing as it doesn't get all that much screen time in the movie. The best part is the way that they have latched onto a throw away line about Budapest and run with it like madmen… seriously though if we don't find out what happened in Budapest soon, someone is going to have an aneurism.
3: Merthur – Merlin and Arthur (Merlin)
Speaking of fandoms that have had a tough year, hey Merlin fandom, how you holding up? Yeah, I too feel as though my heart has been dug out of my chest with a blunt stick… thanks for that BBC. Anyway before it broke our hearts into a thousand pieces Merthur was a pretty awesome ship to be on. Sure the couple wasn't officially canon, but it was pretty damn close. I mean the relationship between Merlin and Arthur is really at the heart of the program so it's pretty easy to read it as an epic romance.
It sucks that the reason this ship made the list is because it's all over but just because the show has finished doesn't mean this romance has to end. The series final has caused a spike in creativity within the fandom, there are fantastic new artworks and far to many new fics for me to possibly keep up with. The Merlin fandom (in particular the Merthur fans) are certainly going out with a bang. The best part about the show ending is all the reincarnation fics and pics that have begun circulating… Arthur is destined to return after all and when he does, Merlin will be waiting.
2: Larry – Harry Styles and Louis Tomlinson – One Direction (RPS)
RPS (real person slash) is always a controversial topic. Personally it's not something I get involved in (apart from the occasional wink) but in this circumstance it's impossible to ignore. Seriously if you have not heard anything about the subset of One Direction's fandom that adamantly believes Harry and Louis are in a secret homosexual relationship then you have been living under a rock.
While the act of shipping 'real people' isn't a problem in itself there is am extreme part of the group that might be seen taking things a little far (harassing their girlfriends is not cool) – there was all kinds drama earlier this year when Louis Tomlinson tweeted some negative responses to the shippers. That said, the Larry shippers are certainly a passionate and creative bunch and that kind of enthusiasm should never just be dismissed because you don't agree with their subject matter.
Whether you see it as a good thing or a bad thing, 2012 was a big year for Larry shippers.
1: Sterek – Stiles and Derek (Teen Wolf)
It was going to happen, you all know that. I'd say I'm sorry, but I'm not. 2012 was the year of Sterek and there is nothing you can say to change that. First I watched as everyone fell prey to the wonder that is Teen Wolf. Sure it had a small fandom after it's first season but it wasn't until season 2 that it really started to take off. From the beginning everyone loved Stiles (especially his interactions with Derek) to the extent that when people watched the show they were very confused to find out that Scott was the main character. While our love for the adorable Scott grew throughout season 2, Stiles and Derek still have the majority of the fandoms love.
As the Teen Wolf fandom grew so too did the Sterek shippers, and then TVguide gave us this video and all hope was lost…
When EW shunned the ship in a summer TV poll all hell broke lose and suddenly everyone was talking about Sterek. AfterElton took Sterek's power and ran with it creating the Ultimate Slash Maddness Tournament, which Sterek then went on to win. And when Jeff Davis tweeted: "Well, if enough fans demanded it, who knows? I could be persuaded." Sterek fans decided to take matters into their own hands setting up The Sterek Campaign, which has involved everything from baking cookies to auctioning off fan fiction to save real life wolves.
Sterek has taken over all discussions of fandom, and while this does upset other shipper a little but most people appreciate the fact that Sterek is a slash ship with mainstream media coverage. I'm still not over it and I don't think I ever will be.
Whether or not they become canon there is no doubt that 2012 was the year that Sterek ruled the world (okay well maybe not the world but at least Internet fandom)… at the moment it's so full of potential, I mean anything could happen and we need to hold onto that feeling while we can because the other shoe is hanging over our heads and it's going to drop as soon as season 3 starts airing.
Well that's all from me in 2012, I hope you have a wonderful new years celebration (I plan on
Merlin I mean partying).
What were your favourite ships of 2012? Let me know in the comments, or just you know tell me how wrong I am.
Happy New Year! May your 2013 be filled with lots of fluff and very little angst.


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Welcome to the Caldwell 9th ward Self-Reliance blog!
I am going to be posting all sorts of great information, links, recipes, ideas that have to do with self-reliance. If you have any ideas or suggestions, please let me know! For those in the ward, I will be starting with info that I have previously email out, but stay tuned. . .


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Diversity and Inclusion Thought and Action Group
Given the strong correlation between Employee Engagement, Diversity and Inclusion, the Diversity and Inclusion TAG is opening the group to new members who have a specific remit and/or are interested in this area.
The group discussions explore in detail key diversity related themes and diversity dilemmas which includes:
- sharing of good practice
- using diversity as a story telling concept
- appropriate measures of inclusive practices
- current relevant research
The TAG held its first conference in September 2016 and is now in the process of writing a White Paper, highlighting key findings and examples of good practice.
During 2017 it will be organising two conferences and a series of short events with invited speakers who will present on topical areas relevant to Diversity, Inclusion and Employee Engagement.
Our meetings are held in London and we meet every other month.
For further information, please contact the chair of the group – Snéha Khilay email@example.com


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Welcome to Employment Edit, our pick of the key employment law developments from the last couple of weeks:
- Enterprise Bill – BIS has published a factsheet summarising the measures in the Enterprise Bill, which has now had its first reading in the House of Lords. It includes the introduction of a £95,000 cap on exit payments made to public sector workers - more information about this is set out in our briefing.
- Fit for Work – employers in England and Wales are now able to refer employees who have been absent from work for four weeks or more to the Fit for Work service for a free occupational health assessment.
- Rugby World Cup – Acas has issued new guidance to help employers deal with requests for time off and performance issues that could arise over the Rugby World Cup period.
- Tips – BIS has issued a call for evidence on tips, gratuities, cover and service charges to gather information on how these are collected, how much employers deduct from their employees and views on whether the government should limit the amount an employer can keep.


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I had a little material left over from the dresses I have mostly finished making for the neighbor girls. So I have decided to whip (this is where you choke a few times and laugh loudly) one up for Sophie. She only needs about a yard of fabric, maybe a touch less since this is wide. That of course assumes that I don't have to cut anything out twice :-) !!! The dress will be smocked on the bodice. The sleeves will be the creamy heart-floral like the under dresses for the older girls are. I just don't have enough of the red. I will also do a ruffly crinoline-style bottom for the dress of the cream floral, maybe with ivory eyelet too. She'll be pretty and fancy for Christmas, or Valentine's Day depending when this gets finished.
I did the smocking different from the last few projects. At first I was unsure because the diamonds were very simple, maybe even bland. But then I took a giant leap (as recommended here) and added the bullion roses (thanks EST for directions!). And then bland is very Baby-Beautiful. I do like the simpler smocked bodice.
I still have a trillion bullion knots to finish, and a bottom wavy border, but I think you can get the idea where this is going. ...very vintage baby
Twin Quilts
10 hours ago


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What a mess!
In a typical Obama Nation move, the Senate had three minutes to read and vote on a 154-page bill which was immediately sent over to the House and eventually voted on last night. Obama didn't even wait to sign it before he was on a plane back to Hawaii — he'll likely auto-pen it sometime later, signaling his own view of the bill.
The GOP has some serious issues to deal with — supporting their first tax rate increase in a generation which actually increases the debt by nearly $4 trillion compared to current law in order to soak those who make over $400,000 a year in a hastily constructed compromise by Mitch McConnell and Vice President Biden which does nothing to deal with our long-term fiscal problems and still raises taxes on 77.1% of us!
And the GOP knew this was coming since August 2011. Poor job, guys. Poor job.
Newt would have let Obama and Reid take us over the cliff, forcing them to get serious, showing them that this isn't a game. Newt would have shut the government down in July 2011 for the same purpose over the debt ceiling, possibly avoiding all this in the first place. Heck, Dennis Hastert would have done much the same! But we don't have Newt or Hastert. We have Boehner.
Frankly, House Speaker John Boehner needs to step down as Speaker: Obama and Reid do not take him seriously, Boehner saves more of his rancor for his own caucus than Obama and the Dems, and Boehner severely aggravated key Republicans yesterday after the snafu over the Sandy funding bill. Plus, only 84 Republicans voted for the McConnell-Biden crap sandwich, meaning 151 voted against the will of the leadership.
Wounded and inept, he should face a leadership challenge. He'll survive it, putting his ego ahead of our nation's future like the rest of the leadership s.o.b.'s on both sides of the aisle. There used to be two parties in this country. It'd be nice to see that again.


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Discovery Communications Profit Rises, Buoyed by Expansion
But Company Lowers Earnings Guidance Slightly Due Partly to Slowing U.S. Ad Market.
Discovery Communications Inc. boosted net income 26% in the second quarter from a year earlier, buoyed by its expanding international presence, though it lowered its earnings guidance slightly due partly to a slowing U.S. advertising market.
Discovery posted a profit of $379 million, or $1.09 per share, up from $300 million, or $0.82 per share, in the same quarter last year. Revenue increased 10% to $1.6 billion, while expenses rose 5.7% to $970 million....


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Disability Information Directory
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Helpline: 0800 587 7500
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Families Information Direct (FiND) is a 'one stop' information and advice service for families and people who work with families.
We specialise in providing information and advice on a wide range of issues that impact on family life – from childcare and childcare funding; activities for children and young people through to care and support services available for when the going gets tough! We know that children don't come with an instruction manual and that most families need guidance and support at some time as they face the rewards and challenges of bringing up children.FiND is made up of a small team of highly knowledgeable information/outreach officers and project workers who are happy to assist with any question you may have – so long as they're related to you and your family's needs. Our philosophy is 'If we can't help you, we'll find someone who can!'<
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e-Commerce is already big in many countries around the world. In this post, I am going to write about the top ten e-Commerce companies in the world today. In October last year, Hamburg based market intelligence organization yStats.com published a report titled "The World's Leading E-Commerce Companies 2014" which contained a list of top ten e-Commerce companies in terms of revenue. For the readers of ecombd.net.
Amazon.com is the largest internet-based retailer in the U.S. The company was established in 1994. Initially it sold books online. In January this year, Amazon posted financial results of last quarter. The company had a "higher-than-expected net income" but sales did not grow as expected. The company saw a 15% rise in sales in the Christmas. Net profit was $214 million. Not very impressive but far better than the 3rd quarter when Amazon made a net loss of $437 million. Overall, the company posted a loss of $241 billion as a whole.
JD.com Inc.
JD.com or Jingdong Mall is the second largest e-Commerce companies in China after Alibaba. It was established by Liu Qiangdong aka Richard Liu in July 1998. The company launched its online sales operation in 2004. As of 2014, the company has a 54.3% market share in China. In order to supply products to its customers on time, JD.com maintains 97warehouses with a floor area of approximately 1.8 million square meters, 1,808 delivery stations and 715 pickup stations across China. As of July 2014, the company had 62,061 full-time employees. In its recent effort to diversify its business, the company partnered with the food producers in the U.S., Australia, Canada, Chile, France and New Zealand.
Wal-Mart Stores Inc.
Established by Sam Walton in 1962, Wal-Mart is the largest retail chain operator in the world. It is also one of the top buyers of Bangladesh's readymade garments products. The company reported a 12% increase its profit in the fourth quarter of the last fiscal year. The company earned $4.97 billion compared to $4.43 billion in the same quarter previous year. Overall revenue stood at $131.57 billion an increase of 1.4% compared to last year. The hike in holiday season sales can be contribute to the lower price of gas and recovering economy. Recently, the company announced to increase its lowest wage to $9 an hour for its half million workers in USA.
eBay Inc.
Founded by Pierre Omidyar in 1995, eBay Inc. is another top earning e-Commerce website. The last year was not so good the company. In the fourth quarter, the company's net income was $936 million, a 10% rise from $850 million in the same quarter last year. Revenue rose 9% to $4.9 billion. In the current quarter the company forecast revenue was $4.35 billion to $4.45 billion falling below Wall Street analysts' prediction of $4.7 billion. Due to poor business the company announced to lay off 2,400 jobs; 7% of its current workforce. eBay also decided to split up its online payment gateway brand PayPal and make it and independent business.
Otto Group:
The Otto Group is a German company. Established in 1949, the company currently has 123 companies with more than 50,000 employees. It is the largest mail order company in the world. The company started its online business in 1995. e-Commerce is currently the fastest growing sales channel of the company generating 60% of its total sales. Otto group is the world's second-largest online retailer and the largest online retailer of fashion and lifestyle products in Europe. The company is planning to invest 300 million Euros within this year in online retail. However, the company is facing increasing competition from Amazon.com. In 2013, Amzon's average operating margin on worldwide sales was 0.9% while Otto's was 6%.
Alibaba Group Holding Limited
Alibaba Group Holding Limited is the largest e-Commerce site in China. It was founded by Jack Ma, a former English teacher from Hangzhou China. He established the company with a goal to further improve the capability of the small businesses through internet. Today, Alibaba is the largest e-Commerce company in China and one of the largest in the world. Its e-Commerce business is more than Amazon and eBay combined and the company is still growing. In November last year, on Singles' Day the company sold more than $9billion. Yet, in the December quarter the company's revenue fell short of analysts' estimates. The average analyst estimate was $4.45 billion against Alibaba's $4.22 billion.
Cnova N.V.
Cnova N.V is a French e-Commerce company and one of the largests in the world. It has operations in Brazil, France, Colombia, Ecuador, Thailand, Vietnam, Ivory Coast, Belgium, Senegal and Cameroon, Cnova covering 530 million people. As of 2013, the company had a gross merchandise volume of U.S $4.9 billion. In Brazil and France, the company operates under sites like Extra.com.br, Pontofrio.com, Casasbahia.com.br, Comptoirsante.com, Moncornerdeco.com, Monshowroom.com, Barateiro.com.br. It also has B2B solutions such a eHub, an e-Commerce platform solution for third parties. Last year, the company online sales stood at $4.01 billion a 19.8% rise from 2013. Overall sales combining online and gross merchandise value was $5.22 billion.
Tesco PLC
Tesco PLC is a British multinational grocery and general merchandise retailer. The company was founded by Jack Cohen. The company currently operates more than 3,300 stores across the UK. The company is undergoing a tough period. Last year, the company's name came up in an accounting scandal. Poor sales was another big company. In July last year, Dave Lewis was appointed CEO. Earlier this year, under his leadership, Tesco announced to shut 43 unprofitable stores across the UK. He also halted plans to open up 49 new stores.
Established in 1997 Rakuten is the largest e-Commerce site of Japan(www.rakuten.co.jp, www.rakuten.com). In the last quarter of 2014, the company performed well. The company's fourth quarter profit rose 73% with an operating profit of 33.3 billion yen. Last year the company also observed 14% increase in domestic e-Commerce gross merchandise sales to $16.5billion. In order to boost its business, Rakuten is now focusing on smartphone users. At present smartphone transactions account for 44% of gross merchandise sales. However, there is huge challenge ahead. 90% of the Rakuten's business is based in Japan and shrinking population is affecting consumer spending. Hence, it is now planning to spread its business outside the country.
Best Buy Co.:
Best Buy Co. is retail outlet selling consumer electronic goods. A traditional brick and mortar store, it also has its online business. In the holiday season of 2014, the company observed a 13.4% rise in online sales compared to store sales. It is now reconsidering to improve its online business. Best Buy's holiday sales was $11.4 billion in U.S. Large screen TVs and mobile phones were the most popular product. Despite good sales, the company announced that this year there would not be much sales growth.
Source- http://ecombd.net/2015/02/top-ten-e-commerce-companies-in-the-world/


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A former California family who thought about surviving, not just "prepping", has taken the plunge. Follow them on their new adventures in Colorado through their trials and tribulations
Saturday, January 28, 2012
No Debt
The only debt I have is my house and oldest daughter's house. Even though they claim it as "their" house that they own, they don't. I put the down payment on and also put on a new roof. After that they are on their own. My plan on that house is when I retire they will buy the house off me or I will put it on the market and let someone else buy it. If I rented it to someone right now (oldest daughter pays all expenses now: the mortgage payment, taxes, and insurance) I'd come out a couple hundred dollars ahead each month after paying the expenses. But I don't want the rental. The couple hundred dollars isn't that important.
My house has a huge loan on it. I pay a little extra each month but not enough extra to make a difference. There's a possibility of me changing jobs next year. The pay increase would be so great that I'd be able to pay off the mortgage five years after I take that job, if I put every bit that's more than I make right now into the house payment. Not one to count my chickens before they hatch, I won't plan on that job and I expect to be paying on the house for a long time. The loan still has 24 years left on it. My plan, without getting that new great paying job, is to pay the house off in 10 years or as close to that as possible.
I know that people say either own it outright or don't pay much on it. I don't like the don't pay much idea. When I'm in my 70s I don't want a house payment. I want to be completely debt free. That brings us to today. On our way to our party this afternoon we were listening to the Dave Ramsey show. The kids were asking questions about being debt free. What does that me? Do I have debt? Why don't I go on the show and yell I'm debt free?
I told them I used to have debt. I borrowed money to go to college but I paid it back really quickly. I used to owe money for my truck. Not any more. It was a six year loan that was paid off in four. The truck is 11 years old. For the last couple of years I've been putting away a small amount of money each month into the "car payment" account. When I'm ready for something else or in addition to the truck I will have the money put aside. I don't want to ask the bank for money.
I explained that I use credit cards but when the bill comes in I pay it all. They didn't quite understand that the bill could come in but you didn't have to pay it. I tried to provide analogies using doing chores and having to do extra chores that don't really count as the number you have to do but it just wasn't coming out right.
If they can get the concept that you don't spend money you don't have and that you figure out what are wants compared to needs, then they will do alright in life. By my living a pretty frugal lifestyle they are learning as they go along that we have to think logically about spending money. A TV show was discussing consumables. That is something that is bought and used up or not any good any more after six months. I try to go as cheap as possible when it comes to consumables. Obviously we spend money for food, gas, etc. But clothing is purchased with the intent of passing it down or wearing it out. Not getting rid of it because it's no longer in style.
While they see that I don't spend, they see their aunts and uncles spending continuously. It's hard to explain why it's not a good idea that son just bought another TV. This time it's a 40". Never mind that a few months ago they bought a 36". They live in a two bedroom apartment, on either welfare or unemployment, and go out to eat all the time. They just got their tax return. $8,000 returned to them. Not bad considering they made $20,000 last year (plus welfare, plus food stamps, plus free medical) and didn't pay a penny into the income tax system. Girl sees her cousin getting her hair done and her nails done. The cousin is 9! Sorry girl. Just because you are a year older doesn't mean I am EVER going to spend money on your hair or nails.
Kids will often listen to others rather than parents. I'll keep listening to Dave Ramsey when the grand kids are riding with me. With all the people calling in telling there stories perhaps it will rub off after all.
6 comments:
I went all cash after I got sick. I suck at credit cards so I cut them all up and haven't had one for over 4 years. I can say I don't really need one any more. I know I sure don't miss credit card bills!ReplyDelete
Great lessons, but hard ones for young people. If they do learn them, their lives will be much blessed.ReplyDelete
Hair, nails, and a big screen TV, all on my dime--makes me angry.ReplyDelete
One of the best results of my becoming debt free was the lesson my son learned in the process. He is determined to never have a credit card.ReplyDelete
Have you looked into refinancing your mortgage recently? My boss did his and went from a 30 to 15 year at 3.something. I know it's crazy low interest now.
- AnonymousJanuary 29, 2012 at 11:25 AM
Before I retired I was living on about $12,000 a year for everything including the mortgage. I made a lot more and banked it. But my taxes were $18,000 a year. The single biggest expense (and arguably debt) all working people have is taxes. So I retired at 56 took a huge cut in my vested retirement and now I live on about $12,000 a year and pay no taxes. I now collect SS too and make more then $12,000 a year but since I don't have "earned" income my taxes are zip. Now someone else gets to pay for those on welfare.ReplyDelete
We are trying to get the mortgage refinanced. It's a slow process because it's California and on acreage. Even though the payment will be several hundred less than what I pay now I'll still pay the same and it will really cut down on the length of the mortgage.ReplyDelete
Makes me angry that luxories are bought with welfare too. It should be for basic necessities. I get so mad when I hear people say they "deserve" something special every now and again. No, we earn them, we don't deserve anything.


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TUG Chapter One
Copyright © 2014 by KJ Bell.
All rights reserved.
Chapter One
"Ouch!" I look wide-eyed at whatever-her-name-is. She's holding a black leather pump in her hand. Its match lies at my feet, where it landed after bouncing off my head. Her red hair—as fiery as her temper—is ruffled from the roll-around we just finished.
"Why are you throwing shit at me?"
She makes a crazy sound in her throat before she starts screaming at me. "Who the fuck is Tori?"
I duck in time to dodge her other shoe. I have no intention of answering her. I don't even discuss Tori with people I care about.
"Fuck! Would you stop throwing shit at me?"
Her hands fly to her hips as she glares at me. "I don't know, Aidan. Do you think you could get my name right?"
I make puppy-dog eyes, flashing a big grin. "Ah, come on, doll. I know your name." I have no idea what her name is. It didn't matter when I brought her home last night from the bar. And it definitely didn't matter when I had her on all fours, her back arched like a cat. Nor did it matter when my dick played tonsil hockey with her mouth.
Her eyes narrow as she holds up one of my loafers. It's bigger, heavier, and going to hurt a hell of a lot more than her pump if it connects.
"Okay, what is it, then?" she asks, clearly testing me.
Oh, I got this. I straighten my spine and smirk. "Alyssa … fuck!" I manage to catch my shoe before it hits me in the chest. When I look up, she's already reloaded. My other shoe is on its way if I can't remember her damn name. "Stop throwing shit." I hold my hands up defensively. "Okay, I got it … it's Melissa."
Nope. It's not Melissa. My shoe sails over my head. As fun as this is, I'm done playing dodge-the-shoe with Crazy. It's time for her to go. I get up from the bed and slip on my boxers. Crazy's naked body brings my dick to full attention. Her creamy skin begs to be touched and licked and clawed at. I smile at her seductively.
Her jaw drops when she glances down at my erection. "There's no way in hell I'm screwing you again." She starts picking up her clothing from where it's lying on the floor. Once it's balled in her arms, she walks toward the bathroom. "You're seriously fucked up. You know that, right?" The bathroom door slams behind her.
Do I know that? Ha! I do, but I don't give a shit. Why do I need to know her name, anyway? I'm not going to see her again. That leads to being attached and putting up with her whiny demands. It's weak. Caring about someone causes trouble.
The only woman I ever loved is marrying my brother next week. They're having a baby together. A baby I once thought was mine. My heart is irreparably broken, and knowing this chick's name won't fix it. I hear the bathroom door open. Her feet pad across the wood floor as she goes to pick up her shoes. I refuse to look at her. Her heated gaze burns a hole in the side of my face.
"My name is Larissa."
I turn to her and shrug. "I was close."
She rolls her eyes as she reaches for the door. "You're an asshole!"
"Thank you!" I shout at the door she just slammed. I've been called worse by better.
I have to remember to not get so hammered. It apparently dulls my crazy clinger-type radar, because I was way off with that one. I rub the side of my jaw where the first shoe she threw unexpectedly nailed me. I didn't make her any promises. She's pissed because sex wasn't what she actually came here for. Every woman I bring home is sure she'll be the one, like once I'm balls deep, smackin' that ass, I'll suddenly want to settle down with her. Most women think their pussy is a gateway to the Promised Land. These women don't want me. They want my last name and my bank account. I'm not going to feel bad about using their greed to get what I want.
Fuck! Maybe I am an asshole, but sex makes me feel better. When I'm with a woman, it's not about feeling. It's about not feeling.
It's the only time I forget about Tori.
It numbs the pain.
I cross the border and park in a crowded lot in downtown Tijuana. The air smells of rotting food, sewer, and vomit—a clear indicator the strip was packed last night, as it is most Friday nights. Tijuana represents the largest red light district in North America, making it a magnet for tourists and locals looking for a party and a good time with one of the paraditas.
As I walk the busy street, taking in the filth and poverty, I can't understand why Brady and Tori moved here. Because Brady's band, Second Chances, climbed the charts and launched into stardom, I assume living in Tijuana is good for their relationship. They can lie low and stay away from the paparazzi, but once they leave their secluded beach house, the environment is depressing.
Brady's work at the Center on the other side of town was probably their biggest motivator. I have to admit, I enjoy spending time there, too. When one of those kids gets adopted and leaves to live a better life, there's no greater feeling in the world. Of course, with the bureaucratic red tape in Mexico, it doesn't happen often enough.
I'm late meeting Harrison to go over plans for Brady's bachelor party, but I have to pick up my favorite cigars from the local smoke shop. Maybe I'm subconsciously putting the planning off. Honestly, I'd rather shove toothpicks in my eyes than be involved with this wedding in any way. Their happiness is more than I can take. My brother's future wife gets to walk down the aisle into wedded bliss and pretend like I never meant a damn thing to her. I must be punishing myself by agreeing to be the best man. As much as I love my brother, the idea of having a front-row seat when he promises to love my girl until the end of time makes me sick.
What can I say? Being a member of the Hunter family is a shrink's wet dream. My siblings and I are poster children for dysfunctional. And I thought my mother's life was a farce. A woman who kept her role in the death of an innocent girl a secret, and then went about her life as though things were peachy is mild in comparison to the lie I live every day. The one where I pretend to be happy for Brady and Tori, with placating smiles and bogus well wishes. I'm not sure how much more I can tolerate.
I open the door to the walk-in humidor and go inside. The warm aroma of Spanish Cedar mixing with Pure Havana tobacco delights my senses and makes me feel slightly giddy.
There's a girl scanning the back wall. When I see her twisted lips and pinched brow, I realize she obviously has no idea what she's looking for. Her white T-shirt hangs off the shoulder on one side, a colorful tattoo peeking out of the top, although I can't make out what it is. I ignore her and find my favorite cigar.
The scent of cinnamon, pepper, and cedar fills my nostrils as I bring the cigar to my nose and inhale. It's divine, godlike in its earthiness, a little piece of heaven rolled into divine perfection. Nothing tops a premium cigar, except maybe premium sex, but an exceptional cigar is far easier to find.
"Does it help you decide if you smell them?"
Her raspy voice oozes a sexiness that makes my dick twitch. I turn my head slowly toward the girl as she inches closer to me. I don't look at her face, but respond, "Only if you know what you're doing." It's rude, but I don't have time to flirt with this chick. Not to mention, she must be freakishly desperate if she's hiding out in cigar shops to meet men, although I have to admit it's original.
"And I definitely don't."
She giggles in an attempt at flirting, I think. It's not as annoying as other women, but designed to try to introduce herself all the same. She must recognize me.
"Clearly," I respond dryly.
"I don't smoke them," she offers. I want to roll my eyes. I didn't ask her, and I can't understand why she's still talking to me. "My grandfather sent me on this little errand. I thought it would be easy, but I had no idea there were so many different types. Can you suggest one?"
I rub my forehead without answering her and squeeze my eyes shut. My head pounds violently, unrelieved by the pile of pills and the protein concoction I downed this morning to relieve my hangover. She asks again, her voice sweeter and sultrier than the first time, as if she's practiced in the fine art of seducing men.
I've reached the top of my irritation threshold, and I want to shout that I don't give a fuck about her pretend grandpa's need for a cigar, but our eyes meet before I have the chance. I'm lost in a sea of creamy-brown wonderment and shake my head to clear away the spell this witch obviously cast. She's not my type, and I'm late to meet Harrison.
"If you'd bothered to find out which brand he smoked, you might have saved yourself the trouble."
My terse response makes her cower. The sparkle in her large brown eyes disappears and they widen further, as though she's afraid. She opens the door to leave.
"I didn't mean to bother you. I'll go find a clerk to help me."
Oh, man, now I feel like a complete dick.
My eyes scan the length of her body as she walks out. She has a gorgeous ass. Another tattoo runs down her side. I catch a glimpse from below her half-shirt, which disappears into her low-riding and extremely tight jeans. The inspiration is Day of the Dead, but I can't see all of it. I'm not typically a fan of tattoos on women, but hers feel like they're worn as a form of expression rather than to be trendy or garner attention.
I go back to making my selections, but the girl takes up space in my head, distracting my thoughts. Moments later, she returns with a clerk. She looks over nervously through her long dark hair, which is highlighted with thick streaks of deep purple hues.
The clerk reaches up into a box. He's a straggly looking kid with a face full of zits. Either that, or he's been playing goalie for the dart team. His dyed black hair hangs past his shoulders and is in dire need of shampoo. I read the lettering underneath the large marijuana leaf screen-printed on his T-shirt—It's 4.20 somewhere. He's obviously aspiring for greatness.
"I'm pretty sure he bought these the last time he was in, but he may not remember," the clerk says, handing her a few cigars.
"I asked him." She shoots me a quick and heated glance, one in which her eyes shout fuck you, and looks back at the clerk. "But you're right — he couldn't remember."
The clerk hands her three cigars. "So he's getting worse, huh?"
Her gaze falls to her shoes, which swipe the carpet, drawing nervous patterns.
"Unfortunately. Some days he doesn't even recognize me."
I'm definitely an asshole. Not only was her "grandpa" story real, but he has to be a sick grandpa. I peel the egg from my face and go back to searching the cigar selections.
"Oh, Maria, I'm sorry," the clerk tells her, trying too hard to be sympathetic. "Is there anything I can do?"
"No, but thank you, Pablo."
Why is she smiling at this loser? He was clearly born during low tide in the gene pool. I'm in here all the time and half of those times, he's been asleep. He has nothing to offer her. If his IQ were any higher, he'd be a rock.
From the corner of my eye, I see him touch her cheek affectionately, and she lifts her head. Why is he touching her? He's a bigger douche than I am. I know his play. He wants to take advantage of her vulnerability for the sole purpose of getting laid.
"You know, it may be getting time to consider a home that specializes in people with Alzheimer's," he suggests quietly.
"My grandfather would never go for that, and we can't afford it anyway," she responds, her sad voice tortured with a mixture of desperation and regret.
Why the fuck I'm still here is baffling. I don't know this girl, let alone care about her, her "sick grandpa" or what she's going through. I have my own insurmountable pile of problems to deal with.
"Well, I need to get back up front. If you need anything, you know where to find me."
"Thanks, Pablo," she says. The sparkle returns to her eyes as our gazes meet. It's the first time I really see her face and she smiles. The dimly lit humidor is suddenly bright, as though the roof split in two and the Heavens shine down on us. Cue the fucking choir music, I'm going to church. Somebody, save me.
She's smoking hot, and my dick is now fully in charge of finding out more about her. She makes a face and looks away. Clearly our exchange didn't have the same religious-experience feel for her.
I eye Pablo with aversion as he makes his way to the door. He turns and asks, "Do you need any help, sir?
"I'm good," I reply flatly. When he's gone, I turn to the girl. "What did he give you?"
She forces an awkward laugh. "Oh, I see. Now you care."
The hairs on my neck rise. "Excuse me?"
She takes a step closer to me. The look she gives me nearly turns me to stone. "You couldn't be bothered to offer a suggestion earlier."
"I…" Actually, I'm speechless. This girl just called me out on my shit.
"What?" Her eyebrows shoot up, and she shrugs. "You couldn't be nice for the sake of being nice, but now that your conscience has awakened, you want to make amends—help the poor girl with the sick grandpa? Don't bother."
"That's not it," I lie. That is completely it, although add dirty dancing under the sheets after the helping part. "I thought…"
She rolls her big brown eyes. "You thought I was hitting on you. Don't flatter yourself! You're not my type!"
"Is that so?" I say as a challenge, hoping she'll elaborate.
"It is!" She nods and her lips purse. With her arms folded in front of her chest, her eyes move up and down my body. "Let me guess, with your designer clothing and conceited arrogance, I'm going to say investment banker."
I scoff. "I'm not a banker."
"Ha!" she gloats. "But you work in investing. You're completely transparent, pretty boy, and as shallow as they come."
Ouch! That hurt, but I'm amused and wiggle my eyebrows at her. "Perfect. You're not my type, either. My turn." I deliberately take my time looking her over, stopping at her full breasts for a while before making eye contact with her. "I'd say barista, but with your personality, I bet it's more like you ask, 'do you want fries with that?' eight hours a day."
She curls her lip and says, "Wrong, and that might hurt if I actually gave a shit what you think about me!"
While she's pint-sized, maybe five-one, five-two, her attitude is easily seven feet tall, which I find oddly appealing.
"You don't have to give a shit, but you still want me to feel your kitty. Come on, admit it!"
"You're an asshole!" she responds instantly.
That's twice in one morning I've been called the glorious A-word. It's the typical default come-back for women after I've shocked them and they're so pissed they can't think. I'd like to say twice is my record, but there were those three brunettes I woke up with a couple of weeks ago.
"I'm flattered," I say and grin sardonically.
She grumbles a string of profanities under her breath in Spanish and I laugh.
"Go to hell!" With one last dirty look, she turns and storms out of the room. I'm left stunned and slightly turned on. No woman has ever spoken to me so confidently, or rejected me so adamantly. Well, except for one. That's the only thing this girl has in common with Tori.
I leave the cigar shop and try not to think about the pretentious jerk inside. The gorgeous pretentious jerk, tall and lean with smoky bedroom eyes and a delicious smile. Maybe I was too harsh, but I'm having a crappy day, and he set me off. I'm also angry with myself for being a sucker for a guy who clearly wants to add me to a growing list of women he smooth-talks into sex. He probably has a drawer full of trinkets from his conquests or a list he keeps in a frame above his bed.
After I pick up my grandfather's prescription, I walk to my car and feel him behind me. I refuse to turn around, but I know it's him by his cologne.
"Hey, wait up!" he calls after me, but I keep walking.
When he catches up to me, I spin around and snap, "What?"
He runs a hand through his messily-styled, thick brown hair and smiles. He's cute, but too cute, and he knows it. He holds my gaze for an uncomfortable amount of time, but in a way that clearly announces his intentions are to get me naked, and 'feel my kitty' as soon as feasibly possible.
"I wanted to apologize for earlier."
His eyes smolder, but all I see is trouble and a cocky superiority in his smug grin, like I should strip off my panties and lie down right here on the sidewalk.
"Great, do you feel better now?"
I push past him and continue walking. He's in front of me in seconds. I keep going, but he walks backward to stay in my path.
"That wasn't quite the response I was hoping for," he says casually, his smile lifting upward in the most overly friendly manner possible.
"No, I'm sure it wasn't." I stop walking and put my hand up in front of me. "Look, it's all good. I don't know you, and you don't know me. Now, carry on."
"Wait. You don't know who I am?"
I shake my head. "No, but I know your type. You think with your chubby, and all you want from me is to get belly to belly. I'm not interested."
"Actually I prefer pelvis to ass," he says with a straight face. He tilts his head as his eyebrows knit together, waiting for me to reply, but I'm speechless, which I'm positive was his goal. His eyes are impossibly gorgeous, and I glance away. "But you don't know my name?"
What is with the third degree? He's treading on obnoxious territory here. He didn't deny his intentions, which means—I'm right.
"Are you a celebrity or something? I hate to bruise your precious ego, but I don't watch all that much television."
He looks offended, but his mouth lifts again in a bright smile. It's genuine, and he suddenly looks boyish and sweet, like an enormous mountain of trouble.
"It's a cliché, but we got off on the wrong foot. Let's start again." He extends his hand. "I'm Ryan."
"Maria," I say, and shake his hand, noticing the set in his sharp jaw, which gives away his attempt to play things cool. The only question now is how long it will be before he realizes I'm not his typical desperate admirer and gives up.
"Would you allow me to buy you a drink to properly apologize for acting like an idiot?"
I laugh. I could think of a handful of other adjectives to describe his behavior, but he's making an effort, and I'm trying to be nice. It would be so easy to say yes, but drinks with him are headed in one direction. He devours women and makes no apologies for it. Foolishly, I'm drawn to him, as I always am to men I know will eventually shred my heart into a million pieces. This time, I refuse to cave. "Además, este playboy loco piensa que soy fácil," I say under my breath.
He grins. "This playboy does not think you're easy. He simply wants to apologize."
My skin flames red. Of all the American businessmen I see in TJ, I manage to find the one who speaks the language. I send him a wide-eyed look and quickly lower my head.
"Come on, one drink?" he asks, his voice pleading.
"I really can't. I need to get home to my grandfather," I tell him, still too embarrassed to look at him. I do have time for a drink, but his invitation is a trap that will ultimately lead to us bumping fuzzies.
"Another time then," he offers. "Can I call you?"
He's persistent, I'll give him that. What's wrong with me that I want to give him my number? A phone call turns into a drink, and a drink turns into flirting. The next thing I know—bam, I'm flat on my back. He gets what he wants, and I'll never hear from him again.
"I don't think that's a good idea. My life is complicated," I say and lift my head.
The expression creeping over his face is curious, as though he's experienced a moment of clarity.
"Well then, Maria, we have something in common," he says, and produces a piece of paper from his pocket. It's the receipt from the cigar shop. "Do you have a pen?"
Obviously he's not accustomed to being denied, but I'm not playfully challenging him. There's no room in my life for what he's offering.
"I believe I said I wasn't giving you my number."
"You're not. I'm giving you mine," he replies instantly.
The sly smirk he gives me is adorable. His knowing that should irritate me, but his confidence is sexy.
I smile and hang my head again. "Ryan…"
He interrupts. "It's only a phone number. I can't leave without giving it to you."
As I lift my head and see his serious expression, I almost change my mind. Almost. "And what's the point exactly, if I don't intend to call you?"
"Oh, you'll call." He grins. Ryan's conviction in his ability to get lucky is evidently boundless, but so is my ability to resist him. I think.
"You're pretty sure of yourself."
"I can't deny that."
With my shoulders squared, I lift my chin. "Well Ryan, I don't have a pen, so I guess you're out of options."
"Cell phone, then?" he asks immediately, as if he'd been expecting my response.
"Nope." I smile and shake my head.
He makes a dramatic sad face. "Oh, come on. Lipstick?"
I laugh hard, and then look directly at him. He's actually pretty hard to resist when he's not airing his superiority. Accepting his phone number is harmless enough. I decide to put him out of his misery and pull a pen out of my purse. When I hand it to him, his confident grin returns.
"This doesn't mean I'm going to call you," I say adamantly.
"We'll see," he says playfully. After scribbling down a phone number, he holds the paper between two fingers and hands it me.
"And my pen." I snatch it from his hand and giggle.
"Wow, so violent. Must be a special pen."
I shake my head because I can think of nothing to say. His sarcasm makes him more likable than I want him to be.
"I really do have to go. It was nice meeting you, Ryan."
"Likewise, Maria. I look forward to hearing from you."
"Maybe," I say, and move past him.
Once I'm in my car, I look at the piece of paper with his phone number on it. He drew a heart. Is he trying too hard or is there legitimately a sweet guy under that arrogant outer persona? I turn over the receipt, and my jaw drops.
Quickly, I convert the amount to U.S. dollars. My math is correct. I can hardly believe Ryan spent over fifteen hundred dollars on cigars. I consider Googling him. He's obviously someone famous, but then I remember I only got his first name, which is for the best. The only thing I stand to gain from a night with him is regret.
I drop the receipt in my purse, knowing I won't call him. A guy like Ryan would never take a girl like me home to his mother. He wants one thing from me, and my days of casual sex are long behind me. Javier is proof of that.


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Modificar algunas Imágenes / Modify some pictures
Budget $450-3750 MXN
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The importance of yoga in daily life
| Updated On: 2016-09-12 07:02:06.0 | Location :
More and more people are turning to Yoga for health reasons. And it is not just old and senior citizens who do these asanas, but even the young and hip.
Gargi College lecturer Rashmi Bhardwaj often suffered from depression. She tried gyming and even joined a salsa class to get rid of her negative thoughts. "And though these things helped a bit, they left me a lot exhausted," she says. That was when a friend advised her to start doing yoga. "It has been nearly eight months now and, believe me, I am a lot happier. Yoga has taken away all my negative thoughts," she says.
Bhardwaj is not alone. There are many like her who have started doing yoga to cope with the daily stress and strain of pressure jobs and hectic lifestyles.
If Roopa Pal Chowdhary and Monica Kakkar wanted to lose weight, severe acidity troubled Neetu Gupta. Similarly Seema Chowdhary wanted to get rid of her joint pains while Shalu Khanna "wanted to learn how to breathe properly".
More and more people are turning to yoga for health reasons. And it is not just old and senior citizens who do these asanas, but even the young and hip.
Another attraction these days is Power Yoga. Power Yoga is a combination of traditional yoga with dynamic exercises. It places demands on all of the muscles, boosting circulation and improving muscle tone. It involves a vigorous, fitness-based approach to vinyasa-style yoga, and puts emphasis on strength and flexibility.
"Power Yoga is a combination of traditional yoga with dynamic exercises. It places demands on all of the muscles, boosting circulation and improving muscle tone," says Noida-based yoga instructor Kanta Prasad. "But this is something which is done by people who are already fit, for increasing stamina," he says.
"These days when even the young ones are falling to prey to critical ailments, it is therapeutic (health) yoga to which they are turning to," he adds. "The most common problem with which people come to us is stress. And yoga really helps," he says.
"The health yoga should be done under the supervision of professionals. Patients of depression, arthritis, asthma, sinus, BP, and migrane can feel the difference within 10-15 days of doing these exercises," says Dr Mohan Kumar of Yoga Guru that runs classes across Delhi and NCR.
"Gyming helps just the physical body, while yogic exercises help in overall improvement. Ideally, one must go for a walk in the morning and perform yoga in the evening," says Dr Rajesh Mishra, who has been teaching yoga for the last 17 years.
"The results show slowly, but the benefits are for life. Yoga just doesn't work on one part of the body like gym exercises but these asanas cleanse the whole system," says Pradeep Singh Solanki of Yoga on Call, another centre that offer yoga classes in Delhi. "And effects remain even after one has stopped doing yoga," he adds.
Doing yoga in groups is cheaper, it costs about Rs 1,250-1,500 per month. Apart from learning in groups at the varied yoga studios, one can also learn in the privacy of her/his home. Most yoga instructors are ready to pay home visits, though at a higher price. Home visits are costly Rs 250-350 per class.
The best time to do yoga is early morning. But there is no hard and fast rule. Only it should be done on empty stomach, about 2.5 hours after having food.


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University Campus Aylesbury Vale is a professional, attractive venue in the town centre which we want local businesses, schools and other groups to use. The atrium is large enough to host events and on the first and second floors there are rooms and open spaces available for a variety of uses. With free wifi access, modern IT facilities and flexible space, University Campus Aylesbury Vale is an excellent venue for visitors.
The campus has proved to be an excellent venue for events and conferences. We have hosted two large conferences where the mix of formal presentation space and more open space for exhibitors and networking has worked well. A number of businesses have hired individual rooms for meetings, away days and formal presentations and we have held our own networking events and presentations for business and stakeholder groups.
The Bucks Skills Show on July 2 used the entire building to showcase career opportunities to the county's young people. Do keep an eye out for regular business events at the campus. We want to work with the region's businesses and will be setting up events where businesses can understand how the college and university can work with them to help with staff recruitment and skills development.
With the coming changes to apprenticeship funding and the launch of degree apprenticeships, University Campus Aylesbury Vale considers itself to be an important source of advice and guidance for employers wanting to understand how the new levy and voucher system works.
If you are interested in finding out more about our business services, please email email@example.com.


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Now that you've seen their engagement session we are ready to unveil the wedding of Claudine + David! They were married on September 19th at the Sacred Heart Chapel on the campus of LMU with a sweet reception that followed with their closest friends and family.
Claudine + David were great in front of our cameras, although they did admit that it felt super weird for them and sort backwards. Both Claudine and David are talent producers by day and are usually working behind the scenes with photographers and stylists for their clients. I thought it was great that they finally got to be the ones in the lime-light on their wedding day!
My favorite item of the day, Claudine's shoes!
Don't forget to check out their slideshow with more photos by clicking here!
13 CommentsAdd A Comment Send To A Friend Trackbacks
Emilie said:
Is Claudine French? Her dress is stunning!! :) Love your pics!!!(11.05.09 04:53 PM)
Alexandra said:
These are awesome!! Beautiful, beautiful! :)(11.05.09 05:30 PM)
angel swanson said:
looooove! thank you for your fabulous talent that day; working with you guys is always SO much fun! these images seriously take my breath away. it helps that claudine & david are g-g-g-gorgeous! xoxo(11.05.09 06:29 PM)
Amanda Patrice said:
LOVE the blurry one! You do what you want and it's always awesome!(11.05.09 11:29 PM)
jenny said:
LOVE these! That ring shot is epic!(11.06.09 06:58 AM)
angie + matt said:
Love her shoes! Love the ring shot! Love this wedding! Love that you both are wearing polka dots!(11.06.09 08:22 AM)
Jenna said:
The dancing shots are fabulous, particularly the last one. It captures that "first dance" moment so perfectly.(11.06.09 11:38 AM)
Chad Jarae said:
Beautiful! I love every frame!(11.06.09 03:07 PM)
Mel said:
Oh Amelia, these are breathtaking~ Great job!(11.06.09 05:11 PM)
imthiaz houseman said:
what a great wedding, love the b&w dancing photo.(11.09.09 10:10 AM)
Orkun ISIN said:
Dear Claudine, Congratulations. We wish you both a happy marriage with love, but the most of all respect to each other until the eternity. I look forward to know David. Please remember that you have an uncle and a home in Turkey. We would love to welcome you both here in Istanbul. Love from all of us at ISIN's family (Tugce, Filiz and Orkun)(11.16.09 02:13 AM)
lizelle Lotter said:
Man oh man oh man. Would you ever come to SA? I will give you a place to stay, just come share your awesome talent with us! Man oh man oh man. :-)(11.30.09 06:06 AM)
Miah said:
LMU is great. Nice post filled with the good stuff. Keep the inspiration coming!(12.01.09 10:17 AM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Claudine + David Married! . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://www.amelialyon.net/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/202
2009 has been our year for shooting weddings in Northern California, from San Francisco to Napa Valley, its been fun mixing it up and in the midst of it all Justin and I have enjoyed traveling.
Stephanie + Sam were married on September 4th in San Francisco. They held their wedding ceremony at the Merchants Exchange Building and then held a beautiful reception in the Julia Morgan Ballroom inside of that same building. The first time we actually met Stephanie + Sam was the day before their wedding when we toured their amazing venue together to get a feel for what the next day would be like. We were super excited after getting acquainted with Stephanie + Sam and could not wait for their wedding day to unfold!
No joke, Julia Morgan was an amazing designer and architect! Justin and I have been fans of her work ever since we visited Hearst Castle a few years back. She was a very talented woman. Now onto the rest of the details:
Now here's something you can count on at the end of every one of our wedding posts: Click here to view more photos with their online slideshow!
26 CommentsAdd A Comment Send To A Friend Trackbacks
Emilie said:
Absolutely stunning!! She is so beautiful! I love her dress too. Your photos are gorgeous as usual. :)(10.22.09 11:58 PM)
Kayleen T. said:
The best part of staying up late is this midnight treat from Amelia Lyon! Lub lub lub the pix!(10.23.09 01:26 AM)
manon said:
damn. didn't I get the memo. I thought its still 2009. hehe. Amazing pictures.(10.23.09 02:24 AM)
Rensche van Dyk said:
You guys are so good!! What a beautiful wedding.(10.23.09 06:47 AM)
amelialyon said:
Manon, LOL! Thanks for catching that! Just changed the year...whew, I'm way ahead of myself:)(10.23.09 07:56 AM)
jean smith said:
goodness..this is one of my favorites of yours. SOOOO beautiful!(10.23.09 08:54 AM)
Char Baiz said:
wow! I love these!(10.23.09 10:09 AM)
imthiaz houseman said:
wow...stunning, i love them all!(10.23.09 10:25 AM)
angel swanson said:
STUNNING!! my fave is the portrait of stephanie in front of the pillar. breathtaking! xoxo(10.23.09 01:22 PM)
L10 said:
I'm blown away... this another one for the record books. Awesome work!(10.23.09 03:07 PM)
Travis Smith said:
My wife just showed me your blog...AWESOME WORK...love your angles and processing...beautiful!(10.24.09 05:32 AM)
Melesha said:
What a gorgeous dress.(10.24.09 09:01 PM)
JOHN said:
love your wedding pictures(10.25.09 09:11 AM)
Irene Frankhouse said:
These are fantastic!!(10.25.09 12:28 PM)
lindsey said:
I love these images! So much life in them.(10.25.09 09:08 PM)
Leslee Feinstein said:
I'm the mother of the groom and these pictures bring tears to my eyes remembering what a wonderful day we had.(10.26.09 09:00 PM)
Stephanie Vail said:
amazing backgrounds, amazing lighting and overall some breathtaking photographs! i can only pray to have that kind of talent some day. not to mention i love how much thought, care and detail you put into each post! i love your work and always check updates on this page!(10.27.09 10:56 PM)
Stacie Smith said:
As always, beautiful and fresh. Love your blog. You photographed my friends last year... Jeremy and Fashion with their 3 kids. I was sad they didn't come to CO and have me shoot, but am glad they found/know you.(10.28.09 08:31 AM)
Beka said:
Amazing as always! I almost died when I saw the two images in front of that crazy detailed wall. So ridiculously good! :)(10.28.09 08:13 PM)
kristin @ The Treasured Petal said:
She is such an elegant bride! Gorgeous images, brings me back to my days at Berkeley.(10.28.09 11:44 PM)
Kristen Snyder said:
oh my goodness! the bride is gorgeous!! and so are you photos! =)(10.29.09 06:24 AM)
Drew said:
GEEZ, this is such amazing work. I must say that your lighting is always spot on. I am envious of your talent!(10.29.09 02:27 PM)
Jenny said:
Love the photo of them crossing the streets ! The first dance photo with off camera lighting is terrific !(11.01.09 12:16 AM)
Ryel said:
I love the city shots!! The detail shots are just amazing!! Great work you guys!(11.02.09 06:09 PM)
Laura Marchbanks said:
My sister in law wore this same gown for her wedding. To this day it's still one of my favorites. Beautiful!(11.03.09 01:04 PM)
Kayla said:
These are amazing! Love the big city feel! So awesome!(11.04.09 08:03 AM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Stephani + Sam Married! . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://www.amelialyon.net/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/198


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The law firm of Gordon, Feinblatt, Rothman, Hoffberger & Hollander, LLC is pleased to announce William M. Davidow has joined the firm. He will be a member of the firm's Business Law and Health Care Practice Groups.
Davidow has more than 30 years of experience providing counsel in business, corporate, tax, partnership, health care and mergers and acquistions matters. His clients encompass a broad range of industries, including technology companies, real estate and construction companies, government contractors, and hospitals, medical practices and other health care organizations.
Herbert Goldman, managing member of Gordon, Feinblatt, said, "Bill Davidow is a terrific lawyer and terrific guy, and we're thrilled to have him practicing with us."
Davidow received his LL.M in Taxation from Georgetown University, his J.D. from the University of Maryland School of Law and his B.A. from the University of Notre Dame.


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MANCHESTER, N.H. (AP) — Authorities in New Hampshire say scammers posing as Eversource Energy employees are threatening to turn off people's power if they don't get paid.
The scammers are hitting the Manchester area following two nor'easters that left many in the state without power. WMUR-TV reports the scammers are calling individuals and organizations, calling a veterinary center in one instance — claiming power would be shut off if the business did not pay nearly $3,000 in 20 minutes.
Two different scammers walked into an apartment building in Manchester on back-to-back days and knocked on a resident's door, fleeing after the resident told them to go to the building's main office.
Eversource says its employees won't ask for money out in the field.


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Business Development – an essential discipline for any business
Business Development is one of the main areas of any business including home businesses and consists of two essential areas:
1. Marketing: the process of communicating the value of a product or service to customers, for the purpose of selling that product or service (Wikipedia).
2. Sales: the act of selling a product or service in return for money or other compensation. (Wikipedia)
Let's face it, if a business does not make sales it will not stay in business for long. So communicating the value of a product of service in order to sell the product or service is absolutely vital to the success of any business.
We are dedicated to helping a business grow through marketing and sales and there are pages dedicated to each discipline to provide you with helpful information.
Click here for information on marketing
Click here for information on sales


text:
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Need a long lasting quality gift for a loved one? Every Quilt is pre washed, machine pieced and can be Machine Quilted or Hand Quilted. We Can Make You a Photo Quilt with Your Baby's Photos and Name on the Quilt. We can Make a Regular Size Quilt, Baby Quilt or a Custom Quilt of Your Choice.
Find Handmade Baby Quilts For Sale along with Crib Quilts, Quilted Wall Hangings, Lap Throws, Cat Throws and Cat Quilts on the For Sale Page. Need a Quilt as a Gift with the Baby's Name on the Quilt? Then see Our Personalized Quilts Page there you can get a Custom Baby Photo Quilt Made to Your Order.
See the About Me Page for more information on the Custom Quilts and Quilt Finishing I can do for you from our smoke and perfume free home, stop into Cindy's Quilt Studio and see where the quilts are made.
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